Beginner Assistance
Welcome to the Family! Your first steps are important. In this section, you will find videos and information to help you learn about the Bible, Scripture, how to find a good Christian fellowship, and more.
Where to Begin?
The life of a Kingdom believer, often referred to as a Christian, can be overwhelming. With so many issues and alternatives, it can be difficult to know where to start or what priorities to set. There are over 900 translations of the Scriptures; which one should you trust or use for your daily study? When translations differ, which ones are reliable? We address these and many other topics in this section and the following Learner and Deeper Dive sections.
There are more than 2,000 denominations of Christianity, each with different traditions and beliefs about what it means to follow Jesus— the English name of Yeshua, who is the Messiah (our Savior). Many of these beliefs are simply human traditions, rather than mandates from Scripture—things that God instructs us to do. How can I determine which denominations are worth considering for a place to praise and worship God, and which ones are dependable for teaching, learning, and doctrine? We have selected 12 basic topics to discuss below in the Content Selector. For each topic, we will examine the fundamental issues, differentiating between challenging issues and softer ones. We will distinguish essential core issues, referred to as Dogmas, from those that are merely traditions or personal preferences, which are not commandments or laws from God. Additionally, we will explore Kingdom Principles that highlight patterns found in the Old Testament, including the Torah (the Ten Commandments) and the writings of the Psalms and Prophets. We introduce aspects of Hebrew culture and language, as the Old Testament was written for Jewish believers in God, not for Gentiles (non-believers). To understand what God is conveying, we must consider the context in which the Scriptures were entrusted and how they would have been understood within their cultural practices and customs of the time. Finally, it’s important to note that when Scripture and Law were established and Covenants were formed between God and Israel, the New Testament did not yet exist. All references to Law or Scripture in this context refer solely to what is found in the Old Testament writings: the Torah, the Psalms, the Prophets, and other books known at that time. The first written New Testament texts only became widely available around 150 to 200 A.D., after all the Apostles had died, so none of the references in the New Testament are to other New Testament writings by Jesus’s Apostles. The conclusion is critical. Jesus stated that He did not come to negate anything in the Old Testament, including the Torah Law given to Moses, but rather to fulfill it. He also affirmed that nothing would change the Torah or lessen its significance. He indicated that not a dot or stroke of the Torah would be altered as long as the Heavens and Earth remain. While He assured us that our sins are forgiven, He also emphasized the importance of striving to keep the Torah and maintain holiness, as God is holy and we were created in His image. Furthermore, Jesus warned that even those through whom signs and wonders are performed by the Holy Spirit may not be known to Him and would not enter His Kingdom rest. He was referring to individuals who claim to be Kingdom believers but show no evidence of a transformation from their previous sinful behaviors after accepting Jesus's salvation.
Beginning Your Journey Well
There is an old saying, "Well begun is half done." Getting a good start and developing Kingdom practices will help you grow quickly in your faith, in trusting God, resisting Satan so you can have victory over Him. The walk in the path of Jesus (Yeshua) is not an easy or without obstacles; in fact it's rather tough going. Don't start out unprepared for your journey of transformation. You must surrender to be transformed, which is the purpose of water baptism.
Growth As A New Believer
Once you have decided to become a Kingdom believer, you progress in your discipleship:
-
Learning the whole Bible and full gospel that saved you, and
-
Being baptized in water, as a testimony to your surrender and obedience to God, and
-
Being obedient to the leadings of the Holy Spirit so that your emotions and mindset come into sync with those of Messiah Jesus, and
-
Finding others who are part of the Kingdom of God on earth, and
-
Being in a place that can disciple and mentor you as you grow in the Lord, and
-
Fellowshipping with them, and
-
Being baptized with Holy Spirit as He comes to be entangled with your life, and
-
Learning about the unseen, spiritual realm, the Third Heaven, and the realm in which God operates - its temples, Courts, and the other heavenly beings there.
American churches and denominations exhibit various characters, from traditional and ritualistic traditions to full manifestations of God, the Holy Spirit. The English word "church" does not accurately translate the Greek word "ekklesia" (or ecclesia) accurately. The ekklesia is the legislative body on earth for the Kingdom of God. Unfortunately, many Christian fellowships are not organized nor run as "ekklesias." Due to traditions of men and prejudice, not all churches are inviting or healing spaces for new believers who have accepted Jesus. Not all who claim to follow God behave by following the Holy Spirit. Some Ministers and Shepherds act as agents of Satan—wolves in sheep's clothing who have snuck into leadership to intentionally mislead believers and stifle their growth. Evil spirits and rigid religiosity have infiltrated many American churches and denominations. In the End Times, judgment will come upon such churches. Jesus referred to this as "the leaven of the Pharisees" and warned His disciples against it. New Kingdom believers should steer clear of such spiritually stagnant fellowships. If you have encountered a Kingdom fellowship where you had a wounding or painful experience - that wasn't God's intention. We apologize on behalf of the Lord for your unkind or judgmental reception.
Churches are spiritual hospitals for groups of flawed and broken people with the same deadly spiritual disease - sinful souls and dead spirits. There are many lifestyle changes you need to make to get off to a good start.
Reading the Bible is one (so selecting which translations to use is important). So is water baptism. Finding a genuine worshipping fellowship of Kingdom believers is another, beginning to trust your growing faith in God, in Yeshua/Jesus - God Messiah, and in the leadings of the Holy Spirit (Ruach Ha'Kodesh) who will anoint you and lead you in Scripture understanding, and ultimately come to indwell your One New Man (or Woman) that he has created in you, whether a former Jew or gentile believer. This section has resources to help you in these diverse tasks.
Learn how to Study Scripture by watching the three videos - Demystifying Scripture StudyParts 1, 2, and 3. Scripture is anointed, and reveals doorways (Ancient Gates) between your Earthly awareness, and a higher, unseen spiritual realm. Holy Spirit is the gatekeeper for Kingdom believers. Scripture provides the foundation of the faith that your trust in God is built upon. Scripture is the beginning of you understanding of God's Word and His expectations for our Kingdom living. Scripture is the foundation for the entire New Testament, and for the Gospel of Luke, the Book of Acts and Hebrews, and of course Revelations.
Bibles are Translations, Not Scriptures
Don't confuse Bible translations with the Scriptures. The 900 Bible Translations video above will help you find the correct translations to study Scripture, including those accessible on your cell phone and from your laptop or desktop computer. While this vast number of translations may seem overwhelming, you will only need only 3-5 translations, even for serious study. The good news is that you don't need to purchase any of these different translations; you can use Biblehub.com or the YouBible website to find them online. Often, in Daniel Place, we provide links to the BibleHub site. The next time we direct you to one, you can create a Browser bookmark and revisit it whenever you need to.
The Scriptures are what the Holy Spirit directly revealed to humans and they wrote down in ancient Hebrew and Aramaic languages. These came before any New Testament books. Bibles are what have been transcribed (translated) from the ancient languages into the modern languages we speak and understand today. The challenge in translation is to convey the ideas and concepts that the original Scriptural scrolls presented to people thousands of years ago. The original Scriptures were written in ancient Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.
What are the Keys to the Kingdom? How are they to be used? Look up "Keys to the Kingdom" on the Biblehub.com website. What passages appear? What does this say about dominion in the Seen realm? Remember, the Seen realm is a reflection of the unseen realm.
Today's translations vary in quality; some have glaring omissions and translations made before 2012 lack corrections and informed interpretation based on the Dead Sea Scrolls. Bible translation apps are now available for smartphones from the Google Play Store and for Apple devices. YouVersion (shown below) is one of our favorites. It also allows you to select from various versions.
When you first accept Jesus, your soul is starved, so immerse yourself in His Word. The Daniel Place has this Beginner, and two other sections to help you learn to thank God, praise God, worship God, learn Scripture, and pray effectively. These sections offer personal support and fellowship until God leads you to a specific local Kingdom fellowship you can join to be discipled and nurtured as you grow in the Lord.
We recommend beginning with the New King James Version (NKJV) and the English Standard Version (ESV). The Complete Jewish Bible helps you learn some Hebrew names for God and gain a deeper understanding of their culture. An interesting but incomplete translation is The Passion Translation bible. The Biblehub.com offers parallel translations, which are particularly useful for laypersons seeking to understand the meaning of the Scriptures, as they were not originally written in English.
Daily Bible study is essential for your walk as a Christian, focus on the Old Testament books first, as the New Testament expands upon what is already in the Old Testament. The Old Testament still applies and underlies many events occurring today. Prophecies in the books of Daniel, Ezekiel, and Isaiah are being fulfilled in our modern times, and we are nearing the fulfillment of all these prophecies, at which point the Tribulation described in the New Testament Book of Revelations will occur.
The following are End Times' signs you need to be aware of. These include a global economic collapse (the demise of the Whore of Babylon), the Mark of the Beast required for commerce under a new, One World Government, and the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. The revealing of the Antichrist from one of the Islamic countries and the Peace Treaty between Israel and Islam. These are all events of the End Times, and we have already entered them since the re-establishment of Israel in 1948. We believe that anyone born today will witness all of these events.
Using Concordances
To embark on this journey, you will need a concordance. A concordance is a tool that lists each word found in the Scriptures along with its occurrences, from the first to the last, based on a specific translation—typically a literal translation. Concordances are not effective for paraphrased translations. Understanding the first occurrence of a word is crucial because it reveals the core meaning. Subsequent occurrences may show variations and expansions of that initial meaning, which can help clarify it.
For example, consider the words "afraid" or "fear." Where do they first appear in the Scriptures, and what is their context?
Practice using a concordance to identify five changes that occurred in Eden after mankind's fall into sin and disobedience. What was unleashed in Creation as a result of Adam and Eve believing that God had lied to them?
Additionally, explore the concept of the One-New-Man (the inner, spiritual man). A helpful hint is to look in the New Covenant section of the Bible, specifically Ephesians chapter 2, verses 13-16. Ask yourself, "What is new about the One New Man?" Remember that the Holy Spirit often teaches by prompting us with questions to ponder, rather than providing direct answers.
Journaling
You can begin journaling because you might not remember key points and principles the first time you hear them. Here is a journal form you can use, or feel free to create your own. Note the teacher or passage, the date, and the key points you studied or those that the Holy Spirit quickened in your spirit. You can also use this journal to document any dreams that the Holy Spirit gives you. However, not everyone receives such dreams, so don't be disappointed if you don't. A journal can be useful for discussing what is happening in your new spiritual life with a mentor, pastor, or minister of the church (ekklesia) you are part of.
Spiritual Principles/Laws
Just as there are universal laws on Earth, such as the laws of gravity and centrifugal force, there are also universal principles in the spiritual realm that govern how our spiritual lives, encompassing both soul and spirit, function on Earth. We must learn these principles, or we risk stagnating in our spiritual development. Let's discuss one of these now - the Law of Forgiveness.
You can begin by watching the 'Law of Forgiveness' video. The opposite of forgiveness is unforgiveness. Forgiveness is a conscious choice we can either make or choose not to make. What happens to someone who decides not to forgive others? Remember the Lord's Prayer, which states, "...forgive us our trespasses, as we continuously forgive those who trespass against us."
When we choose not to forgive, it results in bondage, even if Jesus has set us free.
Yes, we are free, even to override what Jesus has accomplished for us!
How often do we place ourselves back in bondage by holding onto unforgiveness against someone for something they did to us?
Unforgiveness is one of Satan's most potent weapons, so don't allow yourself to be easily offended. Unforgiveness interrupts the Holy Spirit's transformation of our hearts and minds by tightly clinging to them or anything else. Over time, unforgiveness can develop into bitterness, which often leads to a desire for revenge. It is, therefore, a deadly trap to avoid. This and many other laws are explained in the Old Testament. Bible study is the primary way to learn about these principles.
As you discover these Spiritual Laws, write them in your journal so you don't forget them. They are called "laws" because they are universal (applying to every believer) and act as barriers to making further progress in your growth as a Kingdom believer if they are ignored.
Here are some others to explore: Where is the Law of Multiplication stated? Where is the Law of Sowing and Reaping mentioned? What other Laws can you find in Scripture?
Understanding Apostle Paul
Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, before becoming a believer and later an Apostle for Messiah Yeshua, was a Pharisee, an expert in Old Testament Jewish Law, including the Tanakh, the Prophets, and other Old Testament writings, and was familiar with all the Old Testament covenants.
To gain a correct understanding of Paul's New Testament writings, it is essential to comprehend the Old Testament Law on which he based his teachings. Scripture also serves as the necessary foundation for the Book of Revelation, particularly the Books of Daniel, Ezekiel, and the Prophets Isaiah. It contains much hidden or sealed information that most believers in the Kingdom may be unaware of. Christians unfamiliar with the Old Testament may struggle to understand the New Testament, as Jesus came to fulfill, not cancel or replace, the Old Testament.
Heart Transformation
Open your heart fully to Jesus, whose Hebrew name is Yeshua. He is the long-awaited Messiah of Judaism (that is today called Christianity). You are saved because His Suffering and Blood prevailed to cancel the fact that sin requires redemption . Yeshua/Jesus is now your High Priest under the Melchizedek priesthood. For more information about this, read the entire book of Hebrews in the New Covenant part of the Scriptures.
Picking A Kingdom Fellowship
When selecting a church fellowship (video coming), it is crucial to avoid those with doctrinal errors, those that tolerate sin, or lukewarm and "dead" congregations. Read Revelation 1:19 to Revelation 3:22 carefully to understand the things that displease the Lord Jesus, as they have not changed in the 2000 years since John recorded them in his vision.
Some churches and denominations have received the Lord's warning, "There is no glory here," and He may turn from them. Some churches are satanic cults disguised as congregations, while others tolerate sexual sins in leadership or within the congregation. Therefore, it is important to know what to avoid when looking for a "Christian" fellowship.
Only One Way to Salvation
There has always been only one way to salvation, through Yeshua (Jesus), who is the Messiah to the world. Yet, entire Christian denominations today are spiritually dead and deny this fact. The current Pope of the Catholic Church has publicly declared that there are many paths leading to God's salvation, which contradicts what Jesus (Yeshua) stated: "No one comes to the Father, Yahweh, except through me."
Amillennialist Beliefs
Many Eastern Orthodox churches, including those of the Eastern Orthodox, Greek Orthodox, and Russian Orthodox traditions, as well as others, embrace amillennial views. Amillennialists interpret the Scriptures figuratively or metaphorically, rejecting the literal interpretation and denying the millennial 1,000-year reign of the righteous on Earth with Jesus upon His return. Fellowships with these beliefs should be avoided.
Replacement Theology Heresy
Some churches today teach "replacement theology," which holds that God is done with the Jews, and all covenants He made with them and Israel have been rescinded and transferred to the Christian Church. This is heresy because it is inconsistent with Scripture and God's character. Exclude all denominations that adhere to this belief.
Charismatic Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit
Worse yet, many fellowships that label themselves as "Christian" do not believe in the Holy Spirit's ministry, nor do they recognize the Holy Spirit's gifts or any supernatural acts that He may wish to perform. Such beliefs are deemed "too charismatic" and should be avoided. This is not the kind of Kingdom fellowship you want to join, as it denies a ministry that Jesus said the Father would send to believers once He ascended. In fact, the Holy Spirit was sent upon the Apostles gathered in the Upper Room, as Jesus instructed, at the time of the Feast of Pentecost (the Spring Harvest).
Luke, the author of the Gospel of Luke, makes it clear in the Book of Acts (Part 2 of his gospel) that such gifts did not cease and were manifest by all the Apostles and many Gentiles and Jews who accepted Yeshua (Jesus) as their Messiah (Lord and Savior).
Messianic Fellowships (& Rabbis)
Choosing a Messianic Christian fellowship if you were born Jewish is wise, as it offers a deeper understanding of God's Kingdom and acknowledges the Torah, the Talmud, and the Christian significance of various festivals. Messianic fellowships possess a deeper understanding of Hebrew culture than most Christian churches do today.
Messianic fellowships could also be a good choice for converted Muslims or those previously engaged in Islam, as they need a correct understanding of Scripture to replace the errors that exist in the Qur'an. Additionally, Messianic fellowships are beneficial for Gentiles who have accepted Jesus but want to learn more about His role as Messiah, since Yeshua (whom Christians know as Jesus) was, and always will be, a Jew. Understanding Hebrew/Jewish heritage is enormously helpful in grasping the Old Testament foundations of Christianity and discerning where the Church fits into the Kingdom today.
Being Mentored
You may need mentoring from a pastor or a mature believer as your heart is being transformed. Usually, pastors don't have the time for this, so it is important to find a mature teacher or mentor in the fellowship you attend to approach for mentorship or accountability. This will vary widely among fellowships. The smaller the fellowship, the fewer individuals there may be who are mature enough to provide this function. The sad truth is that many pastors never preach or teach from the pulpit at the level necessary to develop mature Kingdom believers.
Recognizing Shabbat and Keeping the Sabbath
Begin to praise, worship, and learn about God in all His manifestations (videos coming). Worship weekly, whether on Friday night Shabbat services, Saturday Sabbath, or Christian Sunday services, based on the Kingdom fellowship you join. When people first accept Jesus, they are like children in need of protection. New believers typically aren't ready for solid food (found in the Deeper Dive section). The Word of God is usually provided through sermons or Bible studies at first. However, given the shortness of time and the likelihood of the Day of the Lord approaching soon, be intentional about your studies.
Water Baptism
Undergo Water Baptism (see video above) and then move on to Holy Spirit Baptism (<- Video Coming). These can be one or two experiences depending on where you are in your Kingdom journey. Seek Personal Spiritual Healing (<- Video Coming) for any physical, mental, or spiritual wounds such as PTSD or soul wounding, demonic oppression (<- Video Coming), curses (<- Video Coming), or ritual abuse. Learn about the Relationship with Jesus (<- Video Coming) and the Holy Spirit. Being part of the Kingdom of God is being adopted into a Royal Family and comes with an inheritance.
Oaths and Curses
Curses are one form of witchcraft that many people are unaware of, but which can affect them significantly. Many addictive and compulsive behaviors have their roots there. Are you subject to any bondages or addictions you can't seem to break free from? Has anyone ever cursed you or your family? Have you cursed someone? Have you cursed yourself?
Oaths are a form of covenant (legally binding contract) in the Spirit realm. Curses are activated when there is a "breach of contract" on the oaths made. You don't have to make an oath to be a party to one; someone in your family may have made an oath that includes you.
Groups that require an oath to join may place curses on the one joining as well as future generations. Oaths/covenants open spiritual doors through which you and other family members can be afflicted and have authority in the spiritual realm that is reflected in the physical realm. People who were part of Islam or another religion, the Masonic Order, the Foresters, Job's Daughters, Eastern Star, the Elks, or any college fraternity or sorority should consider the vows they took when they joined. Curses can also result from previous generations belonging to such fraternal organizations and making associated oaths.
Do Demons Empower Your Bondages?
Addictions, rebelliousness, hate, control, lust for wealth, sexual gratification and other compulsive behavior have unseen spirits behind them. Want to be free from these? You will need Jesus' help and the Holy Spirit's guidance.
God Breaks Curses
Heavenly contracts require actions in Heavenly Courts. The good news is that your attorney has never lost a case there! Jesus' blood is ready to testify on your behalf if you are a Kingdom believer. The nature of the court action is to sever you from covenants or oaths that you or others made. Once you accept Jesus, the Holy Spirit owns your soul; therefore, no man or woman has the right to pledge what the Holy Spirit owns.
When you become part of the Kingdom of God, your name is recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life, serving as evidence in the Court of Heaven that no one else can use your soul as collateral in an oath. This means you can ask the Court of Heaven to remove your name from any oaths made by you or others.
God, through the Holy Spirit, will revive, transform, and heal your soul, aligning your heart and mind with Jesus' heart and mind. No believer on earth has been completely transformed, including those in leadership positions. Look to grow in the Fruit of the Spirit, and put your faith in following Jesus.
Christian - Grow Your Faith
Be determined to enhance your new relationship with God. The Holy Spirit makes many spiritual resources and tools available to you. Rest assured, every true Kingdom believer and many angelic beings will help you succeed and become an intimate friend of the Lord Jesus, our Messiah.
If you don't prepare for Satanic attacks, you can easily be blindsided when they come. Know that Satan even influences some of the members of churches. All members of churches are sinners, but not all are growing in their obedience to the Lord.
Kingdom living is a matter of submitting to the Holy Spirit, who will help you to put carnal impulses to death and embrace His inner voice as He speaks to you. Obedience allows heart and mind transformation, which changes behaviors. There are tests in every testimony! As your faith grows, tests will come, but never beyond your abilities, and God is gracious when you fail and forgives you when you ask.
Jesus equates obedience with love - if you love me, you will obey my Word (John 14:15, John 14:21). Obedience verifies our testimony and demonstrates that we walk the talk.
Baptism and personal testimony lock in your salvation, hiding your spirit in Jesus, who is seated at the right hand of the Father in the spiritual realm (Colossians 3:1-3). Don't wait too long to be baptized. It's during baptism that your salvation is sealed by Holy Spirit (Mark 16:16; Matthew 10:32 and Revelation 12:11).
Until you have been led to a Christian fellowship, hang out at TheDanielPlace and use its resources.
Age doesn't matter in the Kingdom. We have resources for all ages. Check out the Nana & PopPop's Corner. Learn about God Encounters other people have shared. Listen to some music and find some peace. Send off an email with suggestions or a question. All communication is private so what you share remains anonymous. Please be patient in waiting for responses, however. Again, we are glad you are here!