This July of 2016, at a Christian campground in Oklahoma, a group of 329 Messianic youth and staff came together for one week to hold the 15th annual Camp Yeshua. Youth, aged from 14-18 years old, were joined by a team of Junior Staff (19-23 years old) and Adult Staff. Ephraim Judah, the son of Monte Judah, the Director of Lion and Lamb Ministries, was the Camp Director. Ephraim has attended every Camp Yeshua from its inception and has developed the camp over the years from his earlier experience. He organizes the schedule, tribe/group assignments, activities, and games. One of the activities you may have heard about is the Tribulation Game, which is a kind of race/scavenger hunt/puzzle-solving/role-playing game the youth play at night across the entire campground. Each year, Ephraim redesigns the game with a fresh angle so that returning youth have a new experience. Besides the fun they have with the camp activities, the youth make friendships with other Messianic youth from all across the United States and Canada. Youth from other countries have also joined the camp. We have actually seen a few of these youth meet, become friends, and then later marry and have children of their own. This camp is part of the “life cycle” of the greater Messianic community.

Equally important to having a great time in the summer with friends, Camp Yeshua is actually an intensive spiritual training experience. This includes assembly devotion time, personal encounter time with God, group discussion with planned instruction, inspiring evening speakers, along with dance and worship in music. From early in the morning to late at night, these youth are immersed into a spiritual experience designed expressly for them.

Camp Yeshua has endeavored with God’s help to impact these youths’ lives, even after they leave camp. Based on the results of many years, we have seen a measure of success. Parents have shared with us that their children come back changed (for the good) and show a marked maturity in taking responsibility for their personal faith. We’ve seen troubled kids have breakthroughs and become responsible adults. As I said before, we have also seen the first introductions of some who have gone on to court and marry, and start their own families.

Many Messianic fellowships and congregations struggle to set up a viable youth program like many established churches have. These youth have limited choices available to them to grow spiritually. Most tag along with their families until they reach 18 or 19, then leave for college and elsewhere. It is the rare few who remain active in their faith and become part of a viable Messianic fellowship.

For many years, I have taught that if you cannot disciple your own children living in your own house, then why do you think you can disciple men and women elsewhere in the world in fulfillment of the Great Commission.

Furthermore, the Greatest Commandment to love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, and might begins with the Shema and ends with teaching your children.

Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. Deuteronomy 6:4-7

Many Messianic brethren say the Shema weekly in their assemblies and know about the greatest commandment that follows, but it is a surprise to many that teaching their children is equivalent to the greatest commandment. I would also add that God emphasizes the teaching of children as a diligent activity, which extends the “all of your heart, soul, and might” part.

For these reasons, Lion and Lamb Ministries initiated Camp Yeshua many years ago because it is part of the Torah instruction for us all.

As we prepare for Camp Yeshua each year, we create an overarching theme for the camp in addition to a series of day themes that follow, which are thematically consistent. Ann Stropes (Ephraim’s sister) has helped in this area for many years. Most know her involvement for teaching and leading the youth in dance and dance worship. Few are aware that she develops these highly structured lesson plans for the intensive group discussions at Camp Yeshua. As a professional teacher, she brings her skills to bear in developing the lessons plans and structured discussions so the Junior and Adult staff can follow the plan and teach each year’s program and theme.

This year’s theme at Camp Yeshua was Change the World. The day themes progressed to help the youth tackle such a daunting subject. On the first day, they considered what it means to change yourself. On day two, they discussed what it takes to change one's community. On day three, the topic of changing the world by not conforming to it was the focus. On day four, the youth looked at what it means to change eternity by seeking the Kingdom.

The key points of these discussions and lessons focused on the process of how God wants to change the world. They were instructed that God’s plan begins with them personally and changes that God is making in their lives. From there, they learned how they can reach out to those near them (their neighbors) and beyond to the fellowship and community they live in to impact others to fulfill God’s plan. Finally, they considered the end goal, God’s Kingdom, and their part in His Kingdom.

So this year, I felt the message of the camp theme could be appreciated by others too. I decided to share in this issue of YAVOH some of the key points and conclusions that the youth experienced at Camp Yeshua this year.

In presenting this article, I want to accomplish three things. One, I want the youth who attended the Camp to be reminded of what they were taught at camp (lest they forget too soon!). Secondly, I want the parents of these youth and our readers to review the instruction the youth received and to understand the changes taking place in their spiritual walk. Thirdly, I want those who pray for and financially support these youth through “camper scholarships” to understand their partnership with this ministry and how it has had an impact in the lives of these youth and the future of the Messianic community as a whole.

I’m praying that our labor has not be in vain but will yield a great harvest for the Kingdom.

 

Day 1: A New Creation “How do we change ourselves?”

For the love of Messiah controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Messiah according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Messiah, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. 2 Corinthians 5:14-17

The Tabernacle in the wilderness was designed from the inside out. The elements, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, and the Menorah, were constructed first, then the Holy Place and Holy of Holies to contain them were built before the Tabernacle was constructed. The internal most holy elements were established first. The same is true of us. We are changed spiritually from the inside out, not by outward things first.

The Apostle Paul gave a similar instruction to the Philippians, urging them to “work out their salvation” (Phil 2:12-13). His instruction is not about doing “good works,” but rather about starting from the inside and letting your faith work its way outward to be seen.

His same instruction was given to the Ephesians when he spoke of the “old man” passing away so the new man can come forth.

But you did not learn Messiah in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Yeshua, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Therefore, laying aside falsehood, SPEAK TRUTH EACH ONE of you WITH HIS NEIGHBOR, for we are members of one another. BE ANGRY, AND yet DO NOT SIN; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity. He who steals must steal no longer; but rather he must labor, performing with his own hands what is good, so that he will have something to share with one who has need. Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Ephesians 4:20-31

He even went so far as to calling for us to die to ourselves and becoming a new person. One of the most powerful measures of a person’s faith is to see how they have changed from their previous lifestyle of sin and begin walking in the light, upright and holy.

The concluding thought of this day’s lesson was that to “change the world,” we need to see changes in ourselves first.

Adding to that teaching, we can see that God’s plan to change the world began with our Fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. God promised that through Abraham’s seed all of the families of the earth would be blessed. When the nation of Israel came forth out of Egypt, God made a covenant with them to be His treasured people (the descendants of Abraham).

Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain, saying, "Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob and tell the sons of Israel: ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles' wings, and brought you to Myself. Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel." Exodus 19:3-6

When the Messiah came forth, He brought a New Covenant, one based on the commandments of God written on our very hearts. God’s plan begins with one and multiplies from there. It is not about gathering masses and trying to get everyone to say and do the same things. It is based on discipleship and each person spiritually growing and maturing in faith.

 

Day 2: Loving our Neighbor - “How do we change our community?”

This lesson began with a review of the two greatest commandments, a specific teaching of the Law given by the Messiah.

One of the scribes came and heard them arguing, and recognizing that He had answered them well, asked Him, "What commandment is the foremost of all?" Yeshua answered, "The foremost is, 'HEAR, O ISRAEL! THE LORD OUR GOD IS ONE LORD; AND YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH. The second is this, YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. There is no other commandment greater than these." Mark 12:28-31

The scribe said that Yeshua’s teaching was right because His answer included the Shema—the commandment toward God and the commandment toward mankind. Beyond ourselves learning to love and obey God, changing the world begins first with those near us, like our neighbors, thus the commandment to love our neighbor. Yeshua’s specific instruction on who our neighbors are and how to love them was directed at fellow believers while eating the Passover seder.

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35

Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full. This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you. John 15:9-14

Loving you neighbor, even if it is our fellow brethren, is not a “new commandment.” It is part of the greatest commandment given long ago. Some have questioned what Yeshua meant calling it “new.” The answer is a bit embarrassing. It may be an old commandment, but if you have never kept it then it is essentially “new” to you. This was the point made by the Apostle John.

Beloved, I am not writing a new commandment to you, but an old commandment which you have had from the beginning; the old commandment is the word which you have heard. 1 John 2:7

The commandment in question was about loving one another (loving our neighbor).

This topic also included the love and honor we are commanded concerning parents.

Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the LORD your God gives you. Exodus 20:12

This fifth commandment is called the “commandment with promise,” because God promised a long life to those who honor their parents. Conversely, if a person dishonors their parents, it leads to a shortening of one’s life.

The conclusion to this day’s teaching was that to change the world we need to improve the relationships we have with those around us (our neighbors), including parents and family. We need to focus on others, their needs, and be of service for their benefit. This will change them and the world will follow.

As an added teaching, I am reminded how the Lord taught me some of this.

When I was young man, I found myself in desperate need for some financial assistance. The need was $415 and there was no way I could meet it. A brother in the faith became aware of my need and shared with me. I didn’t ask him for help, but he followed the commandment of “loving his neighbor” to help me. The help I received changed me from then on. I have never forgotten what was done for me and how I felt after being helped. Since those days, I have shared with others in their need because the Lord helped me earlier through that brother. His gift to meet my need has resulted in many more gifts to others who were in need. I was changed because someone else loved his neighbor.

 

Day 3: In the World, but Not of It - “How do we change the world?”

This lesson begins with acknowledging that there are many things in the world that influence us. This includes how we dress, communicate with one another, and a whole host of behaviors. Generally speaking, we find it difficult to share our faith because our faith is different from the things of the world. Rather than conforming to the world, we are commanded to show ourselves to the world and present a clear alternative to those in the world.

If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you. John 15:18-19

Changing the world means confronting those differences and dealing with the greater conflict the world has with God Himself.

Yeshua specifically prayed for us on this matter.

I ask on their behalf; I do not ask on behalf of the world, but of those whom You have given Me; for they are Yours; and all things that are Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine; and I have been glorified in them. I am no longer in the world; and yet they themselves are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, that they may be one even as We are. While I was with them, I was keeping them in Your name which You have given Me; and I guarded them and not one of them perished but the son of perdition, so that the Scripture would be fulfilled. But now I come to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves. I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth. As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth. John 17:9-19

This lesson addressed the teaching of Yeshua to be sanctified (separated) from the world yet showing ourselves in the world.

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

The conclusion to this lesson was that changing the world is not limited to a relationship with believers only. It includes showing ourselves to strangers (being representatives of the godly characteristics Yeshua asks us to have) in being a “light to the nations.”

Adding to this teaching, I would remind everyone that we are to be prepared to share our testimony, to not be ashamed of the Gospel, but to confidently be able to explain about Him and His desire that all mankind would understand and believe what He has done on their behalf.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16

Day 4: Seeking the Kingdom “Changing Eternity”

This lesson began with defining what is the Kingdom—that it is different from the world’s definition. First of all, the Kingdom is where people have eternal life! So it follows then that to see the Kingdom, we must seek by faith the eternal life that God has offered us.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16

Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life. John 5:24

And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. 1 John 5:11-13

With confidence in our salvation, this lesson moves to the reason we keep His commandments and seek the Kingdom of God first.

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

Remembering that the real change originates from the heart, it follows that the goals of the Kingdom would follow suit. But then, what are these treasures of heaven that Yeshua was referring to? In another teaching, Paul taught about labor for the Kingdom that produces “gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, and straw.”  

For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Yeshua the Messiah. Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. 1 Corinthians 3:11-14

Treasures in heaven are those things that remain: the things that build the Kingdom, not the things destroyed in judgment upon the world. Now the gold, silver, and precious stones being referred to are not those metals and crystals of the world. They are a metaphor of something much more valuable. ‘Gold’ is the metal of God’s presence. ‘Silver’ is the coin of redemption and salvation. ‘Precious stones’ is a reference to people (believers – see Malachi 3). Simply said, as we fulfill God’s command to share our faith with others, making disciples, and teaching them the commandments of the Lord, we are laying up treasures and increasing the Kingdom.

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20

Yeshua’s call to make disciples in His Name is how the world is changed into the Kingdom one person at a time. There must be a heart change in a person and a spiritual rebirth before that person can be a part of the Kingdom. Discipleship in the Lord is really spiritual reproduction.

Yet, how can we affect the whole world? For centuries the church has had some success in sharing the Gospel, but the whole world has not been won yet. What can we do in our present day? If our focus is impure, and our focus is only on numbers or power rather than caring, we will not succeed.

At first glance, bringing one believer (one heart) at a time into the Kingdom doesn’t look like it would bear much fruit, but consider this. Yeshua, at one point in His ministry had assemblies of 4,000 and then 5,000 at the miracle feedings. He actually ran them off for only pursuing the lunch part of the assembly. However, the real thrust of His ministry was training up His disciples. At the first Shavuot (Pentecost) after the resurrection, Peter preached to a crowd of 3,000 new believers, and the Holy Spirit entered their hearts. Do we win the world by bringing together great assemblies, massive preaching in football stadiums, and flooding the media with televised programs to preach the Gospel? The answer is a profound NO. That has been tried and had limited effect.

If one man were take one new believer, spend a year with him teaching him, making him into a disciple of Yeshua, so that he could teach another also, then the next year two men would then train up two new men, things would begin to double up with greater numbers in the latter years. It is definitely a case of quality versus quantity. The Great Commission is achievable, but we must change the world in the way the Messiah showed us.

The conclusion to this lesson was a review of all of the previous topics leading to the focus of seeking the Kingdom and personal discipleship.

Let me conclude this article with these final thoughts concerning this ministry’s work at Camp Yeshua. The intent at Camp Yeshua is to capture the hearts of our youth while they are developing and before making life decisions. The world has not really had a chance to grab hold of them and drag them down the path of unbelief and darkness yet. They are still impressionable, innocent, and still developing. This is a time to show them that a relationship with Yeshua takes a lifetime and is not just for their parents. They themselves are of the age of accountability, and the gospels tell the story of the development of twelve young men under Yeshua’s ministry and how they went on to change the world.

Did you know that Yeshua began His ministry at about the age of 30 and that his disciples were in the age category of 12 to 19? We believe the Apostle John was the youngest at about 13 or 14, and Peter was the oldest at about 19. These are the ages of those at Camp Yeshua each year!

God wants us to change from worldly to spiritual, and as a result we can effect a change in the world. But the task of changing us and the world is very challenging. Many throw their hands up and say it is too hard. Many don’t even try. These have ignored the gifts and talents the Lord has provided to help us live for Him in a godless world. One thing is for certain… if we are not willing to change for the better, then why should the world change for the better? Not only that, if we are not willing to be changed by Yeshua’s words, how can we call ourselves believers? No one is above Him and doesn’t need to be changed.

But we can change the world despite the challenge of the task. With God’s help, all things are possible, and He doesn’t ask us to do anything He Himself is not willing to help us do. He turned the world upside down training twelve young men, one of which was a betrayer and one of which was a doubter. Imagine the impact that 300+ attendees of Camp Yeshua could now have knowing these lessons and carrying with them that same mission. We have planted the seeds in these youth to change this world. We pray that others will water and cultivate these ideals in them and, we look forward to watching them grow and multiply.