We are...
disciples striving to literally follow the example of our Teacher (יהושׁע) through the truth of Scripture and the power of His Spirit. He is our rule of faith and practice, rather than a theological system or man-made traditions.
Our ministry...
is three-fold - discipleship, evangelism, and service.
The Torah scroll represents the study of the Almighty's Word (written and Living), or discipleship. Messiah told those who would believe in Him, "take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS." In the first century, a rabbi's "yoke" was his interpretation and application of the Torah to his life and the lives of his followers. Messiah knew how to interpret and apply the Torah perfectly. Therefore, rather than understanding it to be a burden, He showed it for the true blessing and source of rest that it was intended to be. Only His true disciples come to realize this fact.
The menorah represents light breaking through darkness, or evangelism. The temple menorah was given the name "light of the world", as its light emanated from the temple for all nations to see. Messiah understood this of Himself when He said "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life." He also refers to His disciples saying "you are the light of the world." His true disciples are to continue His ministry of reconciliation through compassion with power and truth.
The footwashing basin represents humility towards others, or service. On the last night that Messiah spent with His disciples (Passover), He washed their feet and said "you call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you." First and foremost, disciples are to submit to and serve one another, but we are also called to minister to others in need.
