A unique religious organization blending Jewish and Christian traditions, emphasizing the restoration of the original Hebrew name of God and adherence to Old Testament laws.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Messianic Judaism
Founder: Jacob O. Meyer
Founded: 1966
Location: United States (originally based in Bethel, Pennsylvania)
Size: Several thousand members
Other Names: Assemblies of Yahweh, Bethel, Sacred Name Movement
Website: assembliesofyahweh.com
The Assemblies of Yahweh is a religious organization that identifies its practice as “True Worship,” distinguishing itself from both Christianity and Judaism. Founded in 1966 by Jacob O. Meyer in Bethel, Pennsylvania, this group emerged from a radio ministry and has since grown to have a global presence. Central to their belief is the importance of using the original Hebrew names for God, specifically “Yahweh” for God and “Yahshua” for Jesus, demonstrating their deep commitment to scriptural authenticity. They do not consider themselves a mix of two religions but instead strive to follow the Old and New Testaments closely without the incorporation of external doctrinal influences.
Organizational structure is vital to the Assemblies of Yahweh, with leadership roles clearly defined, including a Directing Elder for spiritual oversight, Teaching Elders for instructional leadership, Deacons for serving assembly needs, and Missionaries for spreading their faith. Educational efforts are also a significant part of the Assemblies of Yahweh, with institutions like the Obadiah School of the Bible and Dalet School providing biblical education for members and preparing them for leadership within the community.
The major beliefs and practices of the Assemblies of Yahweh include:
- Use of the Sacred Names: Central to their faith is the use of the original Hebrew names for God, “Yahweh,” and Jesus, “Yahshua.” This practice stems from a belief in the importance of preserving the sanctity and authenticity of the divine names as revealed in the Hebrew Scriptures.
- Observance of the Sabbath: Members strictly observe the seventh-day Sabbath, from Friday sundown to Saturday sundown, in adherence to the commandment found in Exodus 20:8. This observance includes rest and worship, reflecting their commitment to following the biblical commandments as closely as possible.
- Biblical Feasts and Holy Days: They celebrate the holy days outlined in Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16, such as Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks (Shavuot), the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles. These observances are integral to their religious calendar and practices.
- Dietary Laws: Adhering to a diet of clean foods as defined in Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, the Assemblies of Yahweh follow biblical dietary restrictions, avoiding foods considered unclean by these standards.
- Eschatology: They have a specific eschatological view that includes belief in a Great Tribulation, a Beast System (interpreted as a world-ruling government and synchronistic religion opposed to Yahweh’s commandments), and the eventual establishment of a millennial Kingdom of Yahweh on Earth with Yahshua the Messiah ruling as king. This period is expected to be one of peace, productivity, and universal adherence to the commandments.
- Adherence to Commandments, Statutes, and Judgments: They believe in keeping all of Yahweh’s commandments, statutes, and judgments as outlined in the scriptures, which they see as essential for salvation and living a holy life. This includes spiritual sacrifices instead of animal sacrifices and other practices outlined in the New Testament.
- Rejection of the Trinity: The Assemblies of Yahweh deny the doctrine of the Trinity. Instead, they believe in the Holy Spirit as a mighty power from the Heavenly Father and the Messiah that dwells within believers, aiding them in bringing their lives to a state of perfection pleasing to Yahweh.
- Community and Family Values: They place a high importance on community, family values, and treating others with love and respect. Hospitality and caring within the community are emphasized, reflecting their commitment to living out the biblical commandments in every aspect of life.
- Outreach and Education: Through their educational institutions, like the Obadiah School of the Bible and Dalet School, and various outreach methods including radio, television, and internet, the Assemblies of Yahweh actively spread their message and teachings. They also engage in humanitarian efforts and support charitable causes.
The Assemblies of Yahweh has faced criticism for some of its doctrinal stances, such as denying the doctrine of the Trinity, believing the soul does not survive death, and insisting on the use of the names Yahweh and Yahshua for salvation. Critics argue that such views diverge from mainstream Christian theology and enter into legalism, particularly concerning the pronunciation of the divine name. Nevertheless, the Assemblies of Yahweh has maintained a dedicated following, although their membership is relatively small in comparison to mainstream Christian denominations.
image via Rossing Center
