Who Art Thou Lord? I Am Jesus of Nazareth Whom Ye Persecute! - Part 1395

How did the apostles mightily convince the Jews? By publicly showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ. (Acts 18:28)

Apostle Paul, in particular, increased the more in strength, confounding the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this Jesus (who was crucified on the cross, shedding His precious blood for you and I) was indeed the very Christ, which was prophesied from the beginning of time. (Acts 9:22)

Repeatedly reasoning with them out of the scriptures, "opening and alleging that Christ must needs have suffered and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you is Christ." (Acts 17:3)

Indeed, Paul was pressed in the Spirit and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ. (Acts 18:5) Paul never stopped preaching Jesus everywhere he went. We see this in his journey throughout the countryside. The message? Jesus -- King of kings and Lord of lords. His love for one and all. (Acts 20:1-38)

"And after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto him the disciples, and embraced them, and departed for to go into Macedonia. And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them much exhortation, he came into Greece, and there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia. And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus. These going before tarried for us at Troas.

And we sailed away from Philippi after the days of unleavened bread, and came unto them to Troas in five days; where we abode seven days. And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.

And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, "Trouble not yourselves for his life is in him."

When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed. And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted. And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot. And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene. And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we came to Miletus. For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.

And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. And when they were come to him, he said unto them, "Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews, and how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house, testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ ... " (Acts 20:1-21)

Repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ -- the love from above that surpasses all human understanding reaching out to us in this current dispensation of grace. Just before, Paul having passed through the upper coasts to Ephesus had found certain disciples, and asked them, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" And they said unto him, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." And he said unto them, "Unto what then were ye baptized?" And they said, "Unto John's baptism." (Acts 19:1-3)

Did apostle Paul stop there, as do many of the churches of today? Not a chance. Like the other eleven, Paul preached the full gospel, telling them, "Paul verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people that they should believe on Him which should come after him, that is on Christ Jesus." (Acts 19:4)

And when they heard, they were water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them, and they spake with tongues and prophesied. (Acts 19:5-6)

And herein, is Paul continuing his last journey, pressed in the Spirit to preach the good news gospel of Jesus Christ. The Holy Ghost witnessing through Paul in every city, declaring unto one and all the counsel of God. God coming forth as a mighty man (Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6)

Here is Paul saying, "And now, behold, I go bound in the Spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there, save that the Holy Ghost witnesses in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men, for I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with his own blood.

For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore, watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the Word of His grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive."

And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all, and they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him, sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship." 

Sharing the good news, while warning us likewise of the grievous wolves who would enter in among us, sparing not the flock. But not without commending us first to God and to the Word of His grace --which is able to build us up and to give us an inheritance among all them which are sanctified through truth -- Thy Word is Truth.

This is why we preach Jesus, because only He can save us from our sins!

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, "God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)
"The stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the Head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:11-12)

Reach out to the Lord Jesus today, repenting and making Him both Lord and Christ in your heart. (Acts 2:36) Be water baptized in His name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ -- and receive ye the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-47) Stand in the offering plate. 

In Jesus Dwells The Fullness of the Godhead Bodily - Part 1394

Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No man comes to the Father but by Me."

From the beginning of time, God has been faithful in every promise. Indeed, His grace and mercy provide a way for us even during those times when it appears there is no way. A perfect example of God's promise to you and I can be found when JESUS said to His disciples, "Cast your net on the right side of the ship." His disciples replied by saying, "Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing. Nevertheless, because you have so said Lord, we shall do." And the result? Fish! In fact, there were so many that fish could be seen everywhere. So much so, that the disciples' nets were bulging.

The reason for this example is clear. Right now, the world is in need of harvest. Why? Because the world is full of lost souls looking for hope that can satisfy their soul. Searching for the kind of peace that only God's grace and mercy can give. Desiring a reason to believe that the same God that created men and women cared enough to become a man and die for them.

It is for this reason that Jesus used an analogy about the man that sows the seed - preaches the Word - while another man reaps the harvest. He used the example of farming to teach us about the harvest that is ripe. In our world, God provides the SEED for the farmhand can sow. Then, with expectancy the farmer awaits. The rain falls, the sun shines, and the barren field in time brings forth life. The farmhand’s part was to plow the field, sow the seed and wait.

Likewise, God’s loving faithfulness toward man brings forth from a little shelled seed. Why? Because JESUS is the Lord of the harvest. The unseen Spirit of God has sown a SEED of Life. The Holy Ghost planted a life SEED into a young virgin body, when He overshadowed Mary. Within that young girl’s body, the SEED life was nurtured and cared for. That Holy Ghost implanted SEED took nine months in the womb before harvest.

So, from that SEED of the Spirit of God came forth IMMANUEL translated as God with us! (Matthew 1:21-23; Colossians 2:9; John 1:10-11) But the child did not look as if He were God. In fact, the child appeared as any other male child. Still, the Spirit of God had prophetically foretold of the coming of the Messiah (the Christ of God) and now, the prophecies were being fulfilled. Heavenly and earthly happenings coming to fruition, just as the Word said these would.

Yes, as the scriptures had foretold in the Old Testament, "A child is born, a Son is given, the government of the Kingdom of God shall be upon His shoulders, and the child will be proclaimed and called Wonderful - Counsellor - Mighty God - Everlasting Father - Prince of Peace!" (Isaiah 9:6)

The name of the child who is born to be Saviour was announced by an angel who said, Ye shall call His Name JESUS! The shepherds came and so did the wise men offering gifts. Upon seeing Jesus, they worshipped the young child. Yes, this child was the child of God’s predetermined will. And in this child did all the fullness of God’s predetermined will abide!

The Spirit Life within JESUS was the unchangeable Word of God! JESUS was the embodiment of God’s WORD for JESUS is the very Word that was with God, and the very same Word that was God. JESUS is the very God who made the world, and all that is therein. Apart from JESUS there is nothing!

Moreover, man’s heart is the ground into which the SEED of TRUTH seeks. This the same SEED that is spoken to all men through the mouth of JESUS in whom alone does the Living Word of God dwell. For it is written,, "In JESUS dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. The SEED WORD spoken by JESUS in the scriptures is endeavouring to root in men and women today.

Yes, JESUS came forth in fleshly fashion as one of Abraham descendants. Only in fashion. JESUS was the promised SEED of the Holy Ghost in which SEED all believing nations shall be blessed. Conversely, the nations that do not receive "God in Christ" or God our Saviour shall not prosper. Therefore, brethren, preach JESUS, the Prince of Peace to those who seek peace. Tell them why God loved them so much. Or better still, give them a Bible. Why? Because the entrance of God’s Word gives proper understanding!

If you are reading this, and desire to know what you must do to be saved, read Acts 2 for context. The answer to the question, is to repent of your sin and believe that Jesus is both Lord and Christ. Be water baptized in the Name of Jesus -- every one of you -- and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. But do not stop there. Open your new testament Bible and start reading. As you discover treasures unknown to your heart before, highlight the scripture. Write notes about what you are learning. Study to show thyself approved unto God. Pray without ceasing and rejoice evermore. Stand in the offering plate.

Preaching Peace By Jesus Christ -- He Is Lord Of All - Part 1393

Cornelius sent for Simon (whose surname was Peter) to come and speak to those who have come together. Why did they come? As the scripture states -- "to hear all things that are commanded thee of God." (Acts 10:33) We know that Jesus -- after He was taken up gave commandments THROUGH the Holy Ghost to the apostles whom He had chosen, and here was Peter ready to expound on the knowledge and wisdom of the Lord to Cornelius and those around him. (Acts 1:22; Acts 10:1-48)

To this end, Peter begins, "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons, but in every nation he that fears Him, and works righteousness is accepted with Him. The Word which [God] sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ (He is Lord of all). That Word, [I say] ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached. How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him." (Acts 10:34-38)

Peter is preaching the message of salvation. At the time, the vision that he had just seen was being shared for the first time. That is, God is no respecter of persons. Each and every one of us will bow down and declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, and indeed, Lord of all. That same Word -- JESUS -- says Peter was published throughout the countryside after the baptism John preached. (John 1:1-18) As we know, John's water baptism was repentance, a form of cleansing and purifying the outside. But as we also are aware, John always pointed to the Lamb of God who would come after him -- Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed of the devil. (John 1:29)

Why do we equate Jesus with the Word that Peter spoke of? We look to the first chapter of John which states: "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." (John 1:4)

The Lamb of God was the promised Messiah, the prophesied Christ which was to come. God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) God coming forth as a mighty man to bring salvation to those without hope. (Isaiah 42:13) "He was in the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own and His own received Him not." (John 1:10-11) God Himself (who knew no sin ) became sin when He willingly became our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7)

Peter continues, saying, "And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem, whom they slew and hanged on a tree. Him God raised up the their day and showed Him openly -- not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and drink with Him after He rose from the dead. And He commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God [to be] the Judge of quick and dead. To Him give all the prophets witness that through HIS NAME whosoever believes in Him shall receive remission of sins." (Acts 10:33-43)

And His Name? JESUS.

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name JESUS: for He shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us." (Matthew 1:21-23)

Peter was sharing the good news gospel, walking those who were listening through the old testament (which many would have known) into this new dispensation of grace. The very same message that Peter (standing with the eleven) preached on the day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-47) Therein, those who gladly received the Word -- JESUS -- into their hearts repented and were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. And as a consequence, the first 3,000 souls were saved, and the new testament church established.

Thus, while Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them that heard the Word. (Acts 10:44) They of the circumcision which believed were astonished as many as came with Peter -- because that on the Gentiles also poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.

Was that sufficient for salvation? Was confessing our sins and magnifying God, and speaking in tongues enough to grant us eternal life? Keep reading.

Then said Peter, "Can any man forbid water that these should not be baptized which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" And he COMMANDED them to be baptized in the Name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. (Acts 10:45-48)

Wait a second. At a time when the traditions of men and the religious culture are telling us that water baptism is no longer necessary, here is the Lord Himself who commanded Peter and the apostles commanding us to be baptized in the Name of the Lord.

Again, what was the reason for Peter coming? The scripture states -- "To hear all things that are commanded thee of God." (Acts 10:33) Thee -- us -- you and I to this day hearing all things that are commanded thee of God.

Note that Peter wasn't there by chance. He had already been with a certain man in Caesara called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian [band], who was a devout man and one that feared God with all his house. Note that Cornelius had also invited together his kinsmen and near friends for Peter coming. While they spoke, many more came together. At the time, Peter had just seen the vision whereby God showed him that he should not call any man common or unclean.

[For those who may not know, in that vision, there came a voice telling Peter to "Rise, Peter; kill and eat." But Peter said, "Not so Lord for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean." And the voice spoke unto him a second time, stating, "What God hath cleansed, [that] call not thou common." (Acts 10:1-15)]

You see, God is not a respecter of persons. He loved each and every one of us enough to shed His precious blood on the cross. Repentance and water baptism in the Name of Jesus as the answer of a good conscience is the salvation message. Together, hand in hand and not one without the other.

"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ." Now when they heard [this], they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, "Men [and] brethren, what shall we do?" Then Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:36-38)

Not because we have to but because our heart desires to respond to His precious love -- the love that He declared for us by laying down His humanity on the cross for you and I.

"The like figure where unto [even] baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ ..." (I Peter 3:21)

The salvation message in full -- repenting and declaring Jesus to be Lord of all in our heart, and being water baptized in the Name of Jesus -- so that ye SHALL receive the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38) 

And this very same message consistent throughout the book of Acts. Then, as Peter did, sharing the good news gospel of Jesus Christ to Cornelius and his household, the people who gladly received the Word could similarly understood the principles of the doctrine of Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2)

"Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit." (Hebrews 6:1-3)

And as the Lord revealed to both Peter and the apostles -- "Every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more but judge [this] rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in [his] brother's way. I know and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to him that esteems any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. " (Romans 14:12-18)

Let him who hath ears to hear, hear. Stand in the offering plate. 

Jesus Said, "For My Yoke Is Easy And My Burden Is Light" - Part 1392

As I pondered the continued unwillingness of today's modern day religious culture to move forward beyond John the baptist's baptism of "repentance" to water baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ whereby we are promised the gift of the Holy Ghost, I stumbled upon some interesting questions. I also began to question whether those who stood on the shore (refusing at that time to submit to John's water baptism of repentance, and thus, cleansing/purifying their outside according to custom) would have been more willing to accept John the baptist as their Christ and Saviour, instead of Jesus -- Almighty God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:21-23; Isaiah 9:6)

Think about this for a moment. Here were those who were sent of the religious Pharisees asking John, "Why baptize thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither the prophet?" (John 1:24-25) Even in verbalizing the question, one has to wonder about their heart motives. Clearly, these did not understand why anyone would spend their days baptizing people if the individual baptizing was not the prophesied Christ. Obviously, these had not studied the prophet's writings, for if they had, they would have recognized and accepted John the baptist as the "forerunner" to Jesus.

"The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God." (Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 3:3; Mark 1:3; Luke 3:4-6; John 1:23; Malachi 3:1. 4-6; Psalm 68:4)

Repeatedly, John always pointed to Jesus, having said that he John must decrease so that Jesus would increase.

However, those who have not studied His Word still clutch to John's baptism of repentance (cleansing the outside in water) rather than adhering to and remaining steadfast in the apostolic doctrine -- which Jesus, after being taken up, "He through the Holy Ghost gave commandments to the apostles" whom He had chosen. (Acts 1:2-3)

This religious false stance, even in light of numerous scriptures (plus John's own witness and testimony) that together always points to the One who came after him -- whose shoes John was not worthy to unlatch. (Mark 1:7) Indeed, he said, "Behold, the Lamb of God which takes away the sin of the world. This is He of whom I said, "After me comes a man which is preferred before me, for He was before me." (John 1:29-30)

(I remember reading somewhere that because of the number of old testament prophecies pointing to John the baptist that he paralleled the entire book of Isaiah. True or otherwise, the thought certainly gives us something to consider as we examine corresponding scripture for our learning and edification).

My questions:

1. Is repentance all that is required for salvation? 

"In those days came John the baptist preaching in the wilderness of Judaea and saying, "Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness, "PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT." And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins, and his meat was locusts and wild honey." (Matthew 3:1-4) This was an old testament prophecy confirmed -- "The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord. Make straight in the desert a highway for our God." (Isaiah 40:3; Mark 1:1-3; Luke 1:76)

Interestingly, as well, the scriptures record "all" as going out to see John in the Jordan, with those baptized in the water seeking forgiveness and confessing their sins. (Matthew 3:6; Acts 19:4; Mark 1:4) Even the religious of the day showed up, which is surprising since John was literally in the wilderness when he baptized people in the Jordan. 

"But when [John] saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, "O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance, and think not to say within yourselves, "We have Abraham [our] father: for I say unto you that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees, therefore, every tree which brings not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire." (Matthew 3:7-10)

You see, even under John's baptism of repentance (which cleansed the outside according to custom) there was an expectation by John the baptist himself that following repentance, there would come forth fruit. And not only fruit, but "good fruit" from those being baptized. Good fruit that can only come from true repentance, forgiveness, and a change of heart.

John continued, saying, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but He that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and [with] fire: whose fan [is] in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor, and gather His wheat into the garner; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." (Matthew 3:11-12; Luke 3:16; Acts 2:3-4; Malachi 3:3; Matthew 13:30)

Again, John was speaking of JESUS, the promised Messiah that the prophets of old had spoken of afore. 

Jesus -- Light of the world. (John 1:5) 

Jesus -- Bread of life. (John 6:32–33) 

Jesus -- Living Water that quenches the thirst of our souls. (John 4:14) 

Jesus -- High Priest who intercedes for us with the Father. (Hebrews 2:17) 

Jesus -- Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. (John 10:11, 14) 

Jesus -- Lamb of God. (Revelation 13:8) 

Jesus -- Author and Perfecter of our faith. (Hebrews 12:2) 

Jesus -- Way, the Truth,and the Life. (John 14:6) 

Jesus -- Visible Image of the Invisible God. (Colossians 1:15) 

Jesus -- Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the ending. (Revelation 1:8, 11)
Jesus -- Lord and Saviour, the Christ (Acts 2:36)

Jesus said, "And he that seeth Me seeth Him that sent Me." (John 12:45) "I and My Father are One!" (John 10:30) God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) He came into the world and the world was made by Him and the world knew Him not. (John 1:10-11)

Acts 19 elaborates further. For example, when apostle Paul happened upon certain disciples and asked, "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" They said unto him, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost," because they had been baptized "unto John's baptism," [As we read earlier, John's baptism of repentance] Paul replied, "John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people that they should believe on Him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus." When they heard this, they were baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 19:1-7)

"And many that believed came and confessed and showed their many deeds" and the Name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. (Acts 19:18)

The fruit was manifested when repentance intertwined with faith led them to believe in their hearts that Jesus is indeed both Lord and Christ. (Acts 2:36) And, that as a consequence, we should fully desire to be baptized in His precious name -- the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ so that we too shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-38)

Why? Because John pointed to Jesus meaning that we are no longer under John's baptism of repentance. The salvation message proclaimed. Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sin, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-47)

In the name of the Lord Jesus so that none -- as apostle Paul indicated "should say that I had baptized in mine own name." (I Corinthians 1:15)

2. What was the purpose of John baptizing with water?

"John did baptize in the wilderness and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins." (Mark 1:4; Matthew 11:1-15)

John preached the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. The purpose of John the baptist was to be a forerunner, crying in the wilderness -- (the wilderness being the extreme darkness that existed in the world at the time because of the longstanding lack of knowledge of God) introducing Jesus to Israel so "that He should be made manifest" to the people. (I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 42:13; Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:21-23; John 1:1-18)

A messenger announcing the fullness of time, and fulfilling the prophecies by proclaiming the Messiah. A messenger sent to prepare the way of the Lord. And similarly introducing many (through water baptism) to a new emerging gospel intended to satisfy and fulfill the law and covenants in our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. In so doing, John remained faithful in the Lord's purpose for his life right to the end. This was John the baptist, filled with the Holy Ghost from birth, never wavering in his mission.

"Behold, I will send My messenger, and he shall prepare the way before Me; and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His temple, even the Messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in; behold, He shall come," saith the Lord of hosts." (Malachi 3:1) 

Indeed, John the baptist was confirmed in both the old and the new testament -- Matthew 11:10; Mark 1:2-4; Luke 1:76; Luke 7:27; John 1:23; John 2:14-15; Isaiah 35:1-10; Isaiah 40:3; Isaiah 41:8, 18-19; Isaiah 43:2, 19-20; Isaiah 11:2-5; Isaiah 42:1-4; Isaiah 61:1; Isaiah 59:5; Isaiah 6:13; Isaiah 1:4; Isaiah 29:22; Isaiah 51:2; Isaiah 63:16; Matthew 3:9-12; Matthew 10:15-19, 33-34; Matthew 14:8; Isaiah 30:27-28, 33; Matthew 21:10; Isaiah 4:4; Isaiah 52:11; Isaiah 21:10; Luke 3:10-14; John 8:56; Philippians 2:6-11; Colossians 1:15-20; Revelation 22:13; Isaiah 53:12.

But interestingly, John did not immediately know Jesus as the promised Messiah. In fact, John said so.

"And I knew Him not, but that He should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water." (John 1:31; Matthew 3:6) Does this suggest that John didn't know Jesus at all? Of course not. John and Jesus (as we see from the example of Elizabeth and Mary) were related. What this scripture is saying is this --- that until John saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, John did not know that Jesus was the actual Christ.

In fact, John required a sign. This is clarified in John 1:32-33 which states:

"And John bare record, saying, "I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon Him, and I KNEW HIM NOT, but He that sent me to baptize with water the same said unto me, "Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending AND remaining on Him, the same is He which baptizes with the Holy Ghost." And I saw and bare record that this is the Son of God." (John 1:32-33; Mark 1:10; Isaiah 42:1; Isaiah 61:1; Matthew 3:11)

And unlike what organized religion might suggest, the sign of the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and abiding upon Him was a sign for John. He that had sent John to baptize with water confirming to John that Jesus was the proclaimed Son of God. "And I saw and bare record that this is the Son of God." (John 1:34)

Both Mark and Matthew record the baptism of Jesus in their respective writings. "And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit like a dove descending upon Him, and there came a voice from heaven ... "Thou art My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." And immediately the spirit drives Jesus into the wilderness." (Mark 1:10-12)

"And Jesus, when He was baptized went up straightway out of the water; and lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting upon Him, and lo a  voice from heaven saying, "This is My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:16-17; John 12:28; Psalm 2:7; Isaiah 11:21; John 1:32)

All this so that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet, saying, "Behold, My servant whom I have chosen. My beloved, in whom My soul is well pleased; I will put My Spirit upon Him and He shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall nay man hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall He not break, and smoking flax shall He not quench till He send forth judgment unto victory and in His Name shall the Gentiles trust." (Matthew 12:17-21; Isaiah 42:1-4; Isaiah 49:3; Matthew 8:4; Matthew 9:30; Matthew 17:9; Luke 11:14-15)

Peter confirmed the same in Acts 10. Then Peter opened his mouth and said, "Of a truth I perceive that God is no respect of persons, but in every nation he that fears Him and works righteousness is accepted with Him. The Word which [God] sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ, (He is Lord of all!) -- that Word [I say], ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, AFTER THE BAPTISM WHICH JOHN PREACHED; how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him.

 And we are witnesses of all things which He did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem ... and He commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. To Him give all the prophets witness that THROUGH HIS NAME whosoever believes in Him shall receive remission of sins." (Acts 10:34-48)

Note: More questions to come in the days ahead. For now, be richly blessed in the name of our Lord God and Saviour, Jesus the Christ.

Stand in the offering plate. 

Make Straight the Way of the Lord, He It Is Who Coming After Me Is Preferred Before Me - Part 1391

Like a pharmacist is considered the only one legally qualified to interpret the physician's formula, it should be recognized that the same apostles whom the Lord Jesus journeyed with day after day for three years, and then returned after the resurrection to further expound upon the scriptures to them were capable of understanding what Jesus meant in Matthew 28:19. And yet, even with eight baptisms recorded in the scriptures, there are those who refuse to believe or remain steadfast in the apostles' doctrine. And sadly, many wish to remain under John's baptism of repentance, preferring not to move forward in the principles of the doctrines of Christ. (Hebrews 6:1-2)

But Peter (standing with the eleven) declared to those listening on the day of Pentecost that this same Jesus whom they crucified was both Lord and Christ. This caused 3,000 souls to become pricked in their hearts. As a consequence, these asked the apostles what they needed to do to be saved. (Acts 2:37) Peter told them that they needed to "repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ" so that they could receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

All eight recorded in the scriptures align with Acts 2. It is clear that Peter's instruction -- "every one of you" includes those being water baptized in the new testament side (after the cross). I believe the confusion stems from not diligently searching the scriptures for truth or, sadly, depending on other people for one's understanding and learning of the scriptures. Still, it is critical that we understand why God's plan of salvation includes both repentance and water baptism. Let's begin with John the baptist.

John (the prophesied forerunner of Christ) was known for water baptizing in the wilderness, all the while preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission  of sins. (Mark 1:4; Malachi 3:1; Malachi 4:5-6; Matthew 3:1) This is why the people went out unto him -- all the land of Judea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. (Mark 1:5; Matthew 3:5)

This is confirmed in numerous scriptures in both the old and new testaments. For example, the Lord of hosts said in Malachi -- "Behold, I will send My messenger and he shall prepare the way before Me, and the Lord whom ye seed, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant whom ye delight in; behold He shall come." (Malachi 3:1)

And again in Malachi -- "Behold I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord, and he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse." (Malachi 4:5-6)

And on the new testament side -- "And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. And he shall go before Him in the Spirit and power of Elias, TO TURN THE HEARTS OF THE FATHERS TO THE CHILDREN, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." (Luke 1:17; Luke 7:24-28; Matthew 11:14)

As we see from the scriptures, "to make ready a people prepared for the Lord" John accomplished and did very well. We know this because Jesus asked the people later on when John was in jail -- "What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately in king's courts? But what went ye out to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. This is [he], of whom it is written, "Behold, I will send My messenger and he shall prepare the way before thee." For I say unto you. "Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the baptist, but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he." (Luke 7:24-28; Matthew 11:7; Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1; Luke 1:15)

Jesus was saying here that of all the prophets, John the baptist was the greatest among all of them. It is also important to note that John was filled with the Holy Ghost from birth.

In Matthew's account, Jesus adds to the above, "And from the days of John the baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force, for all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. And if ye will receive, this is Elias which was for to come. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." (Matthew 11:7-15; Luke 8:8; Luke 1:17; Malachi 4:4-6; Luke 1:76; Luke 20:6; Luke 16:16)

In another place, Jesus makes a similar statement to the Pharisees "who were covetous" and derided Him. Indeed, Jesus said, "Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knows your hearts; for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God. The law and the prophets until John; since that time the kingdom of God is preached and every man presses into it, and it is easier for heaven and earth to pass than one *tittle of the law to fail." (Luke 16:14-17; Matthew 23:14; Luke 10:29; Matthew 6:2-5; Psalm 7:9; Matthew 11:12-13; Isaiah 40:8; Isaiah 51:6)

John preached repentance but Jesus preached the Kingdom of heaven.

We begin to see this when Jesus was teaching people in the temple. Here was Jesus preaching the gospel when the chief priests and the scribes and elders came upon Him, asking Jesus, "Tell us, by what authority doest Thou these things? Or, who is He that gave Thee this authority?" And Jesus answered and said unto them, "I will also ask you one thing, and answer Me; the baptism of John -- was it from heaven, or of men?" After reasoning among themselves and concerned that either response will suffice, these answered saying that these could not tell whence it was. And Jesus responded by saying, "Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things." (Luke 20:1-8; Acts 4:7; Acts 7:27; John 1:26-31, Luke 7:24-30)

But Jesus -- God manifest in the flesh knew all things. (I Timothy 3:16; John 1:1-18; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 42:13) And, as such, we see Jesus with John the baptist when Jesus is transfigured. Reading from the Word in Matthew 17:

"And after six days Jesus takes Peter, James, and John his brother, and brings them up into an high mountain apart, and was transfigured before them: and His face did shine as the sun, and His raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with Him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here: if Thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for Thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias."

While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold, a voice out of the cloud, which said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him." And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, "Arise, and be not afraid."

And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, "Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead." And His disciples asked him, saying, "Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come?" And Jesus answered and said unto them, "Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things." But I say unto you, "That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them."

Then the disciples understood that He spake unto them of John the Baptist." (Matthew 17:1-13; Mark 9:2-8; II Peter 1:17-18; Mark 1:11; Isaiah 42:1; Matthew 3:17; Matthew 12:18; Deuteronomy 18:15, 19; Daniel 8:18; Malachi 4:5; Mark 9:12-13; Matthew 14:3, 10; Matthew 16:21; Matthew 11:14) 

In Mark's account, Jesus further states, "Elias verily comes first, and restores all things; and how it is written of the Son of man, that He must suffer many things, and be set at nought [treated with contempt]. But I say unto you, "That Elias is indeed come, and they have done unto him whatsoever they listed, as it is written of him." (Mark 9:12-13)

And this Elias --- whom Jesus named to be John the baptist. Who did he point to as our Lord God and Saviour declaring "Behold, the Lamb of God?" He pointed to JESUS -- the same Jesus who came to take away the sins of the world. (Matthew 1:21-23) Yes, John repeatedly pointed to Jesus as our Saviour, of whose shoe latchets he was not worthy to untie. The voice of one crying in the wilderness was declaring (as it had been told of the prophets of old) -- "Make straight the way of the Lord." (John 1:23; Matthew 3:3, 11; Isaiah 40:3) "He it is who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchets I am not worthy to unloose." (John 1:27) 

Just as was prophesied in the old testament, John was the forerunner to Christ. The voice crying in the wilderness. The greatest among the prophets, and yet John was in jail for a period before being beheaded and his head brought on a platter. Does the story end there, with Jesus abandoning him as some suggest? Of course not.

Because like the thief on the cross, Jesus knew that today John would be with Him in paradise. And as we saw on the mount of transfiguration, Elias (aka John the baptist) stood with Jesus on the mount of transfiguration. "And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses and they were talking with Jesus." (Mark 9:4)

John the baptist was no longer subject to the whims and struggles of this world. Even so, when Peter and James and John went up the high mountain and Jesus was transfigured before them, and then Peter suggested building three tabernacles -- one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elias -- but the cloud overshadowed them and they were sore afraid, the voice came out of the cloud saying, "This is My beloved Son -- hear Him." (Mark 9:2-7)

And when Peter and James and John looked around, they saw no man, save Jesus only. (Mark 9:8) The One and Only Jesus who is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Jesus -- the Way, the Truth and the Life. Jesus of whom John said, "He it is who coming after me is preferred before me." Believe on Jesus today. Be water baptized in His precious name as did the first 3,000 souls saved. Put on His garment of righteousness, by taking on His name -- the name of the Lord Jesus so that you too can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-47) 

For now, suffice it to say that there is more to come. In the interim, stand in the offering plate with our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ.

When Paul Laid Hands Upon Them, the Holy Ghost Came On Them And They Spake With Tongues And Prophesied.- Part 1390

Is this the experience which was previously spoken of by the prophet Joel? Is this what the scriptures intended when we read that in the last days the Lord would pour out His spirit upon all flesh? Certainly, Joel prophesies of the last days. As well, in Acts chapter two, it is revealed that not only do the heavens open but we see the outpouring of God‘s Spirit into the lives of Adam‘s redeemed race of believers. The actual event recorded plainly for us in the scriptures, so that we also could be partakers of the goodness that God has for us.

Yet in spite of the succinctness and accuracy of the scriptures, and the eventuality of Joel's prophesy coming to realization, we are left wondering as to why someone would endeavour to misrepresent this grand opening of the entrance of the new covenant sealed with Holy Ghost blood and confirmed by the Spirit of God. Why would that be? The new covenant entering in, complete with sound effects sounding as if a mighty wind was blowing, this sound so effective that its sound filled all the place where they were sitting should have been sufficient evidence. Indeed, the prophesy now fulfilled in Acts chapter two definitely demanded their priority attention and focus.

We should have been saying wow to the events that were transpiring in Acts. Their tongues and language now also affected by the Spirit of God. Their tongues somehow feeling as if they had become cloven (split or divided) in a way that made them appear to be on fire. This experience felt as if someone was sitting on them. Certainly, something unexplained was happening to those individuals assembled together. Everyone appeared to be moving from one episode to another, with each one in step one with the other one. In essence, what was happening? Well, they were all filled with the Holy Ghost -- the Spirit of God.

While the noise filled the room, the dialect was unknown to those listening. As they observed the proceedings, they noted that the sounds being expressed by those who were assembled were emanating from their own mouths. It seemed like their tongues were on fire, just like a lot needed to be said and yet, there was not enough time to say it. This cloven tongue on fire experience just remained on them. Again, to those observing, it appeared as if they were not in command.

Then wonders of wonders, an emotional high occurred within the midst. It was as if a spring of waters began rising up. Just when the people had thought there could be no higher or greater joy, peace covered them like a blanket. What better peaceful experience than the peace that comes with redemption? These experiences birthed them into a new covenant, a new creation experience.  They have now been filled with the His Spirit. They have now engaged in a born again experience. They had been born of God. Indeed, these people had been adopted by the one true God who was in the man Jesus and reconciled us to Himself by the shedding of His own blood. (for more on Pentecost, see Leviticus 23 )

No longer is God on the outside knocking on hearts but now God is on the inside. We, as new born children, now desire more than ever before to be fed with the sincere word of God. Yes! With cloven tongues we speak as men in everyday happenings. We speak with surety of the wonderful words of life which allow individuals who receive Jesus into their lives to secure God's plan of redemption and enjoy a born again life. Although this life experience is unimaginable in the eyes of unbelievers, it is true nonetheless.

I repeat the words Jesus said to Nicodemus, "Are you a ruler and you do not know these things? Except a man be born again, he can neither see nor can he enter into the kingdom of God."

But the good news is that we can see clearly now.  Lord, you alone have the words of eternal life, and you alone have given freely of the gift. Stand in the offering plate. Be still and know that I am God. Remember too that when the Holy Ghost enters, we, like the bush in the old testament may burn as with fire, but we will not be consumed.

Thanks to the goodness and grace of God, we are regenerated and reborn. Peace in Jesus. Stand in the offering plate.

All Things Were Made By Him And Without Him Was Not Any Thing Made That Was Made -- In Him Was Life - Part 1389

"As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby ... if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious!" (I Peter 2:2)

When we desire the sincere milk of the Word, we begin to understand in our heart and mind how good the Lord is -- that He Himself who knew no sin would offer Himself a perfect sacrifice, willingly taking our place on a cross so that our sins could be forgiven. Though our sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. And, thus, in so desiring His Word, our eyes become enlightened to the breadth and depth of His goodness and mercy. His abundant love that surpasses all human understanding. As this scripture reveals, there is so much more to learn and understand, and that in desiring the sincere milk of the Word -- "ye may grow thereby." (I Peter 2:2)

In context -- "As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby ... if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. to whom coming, [as unto] a living stone disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, [and] precious. Ye also as lively stones are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, "Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious; and he that believes on Him shall not be confounded." Unto you therefore which believe [He] is precious; but unto them which be disobedient, "the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the Head of the corner, and a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence" [even to them] which stumble at the Word -- being disobedient: where unto also they were appointed.

But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people, that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; which in time past [were] not a people; but [are] now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy." (I Peter 2:2-10; Psalm 118:22; Isaiah 28:16; Isaiah 8:14)

What is the underlying message here? First, that when we choose not to accept Jesus the Christ as our personal Saviour -- the Word made flesh -- we are rejecting the very foundation and cornerstone of the gospel that He determined as His plan of salvation before the world was formed. The mystery that was hid in the bosom of the Father from the beginning of time. And thus, when we reject Jesus, we become "confounded" because we have not believed on Him who hath redeemed us on the cross.

“The stone which the builders refused is become the head [stone] of the corner.” (Psalm 118:22)

“Therefore," thus saith the Lord GOD, "Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.” (Isaiah 28:16)

“And He shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” (Isaiah 8:14)

Although Jesus has become a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness unto the Greeks, what did Paul command us to do? To continue to preach Christ crucified -- who for them which are called, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God -- "the weakness of God [being] stronger than men." (I Corinthians 1:23, 25)

"For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, [are called] but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are -- that no flesh should glory in His presence." (I Corinthians 1:23-29)

But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness, and sanctification and redemption that, according as it is written, "He that glories, let him glory in the Lord." (I Corinthians 1:31) 

Why the Lord Jesus? Because Jesus is the Light of the world.

Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life.  (John 14:6)

He is the King of kings and Lord of lords who changes and transforms people's lives from the inside, renewing us to fulfill the very purpose(s) that He placed in our heart while we were still in our mother's womb. And, as a consequence of Jesus coming to redeem those who were lost, and we in turn repenting and accepting His offer to follow Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, our heart's desire is set on the right foundation -- desiring the sincere milk of the Word -- our eyes opened being turned from darkness to light. 

As Jesus Himself shared -- "and [from] the power of satan unto God, that [we] may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” (Acts 26:18)

But we need to understand that God Himself willingly took on a sin prone flesh so that we could have life. Our response should be to desire His love and peace and joy in our life, making Jesus the Lord in our life. He paid the price for your sin and His desire is to have a personal relationship with you and I. He wants to clothe us in His righteousness.

What must we do to be saved?

As Peter standing with the eleven said on the day of Pentecost, we must "repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:36-47) 

Turn your life over to Jesus today. Be water baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost -- His Spirit living within you. Read His Word for your daily bread -- the Bread of Life, desiring the sincere milk of the Word. And know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that in Him -- the Him that is Jesus Christ our Lord God and Saviour -- is life.

Stand in the offering plate. w thereby”[1 Peter 2:2]

Lest the Light of the Glorious Gospel of Christ (Who IS the Image of God) Should Shine In Them - Part 1388

"So God created man in His [own] image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them." (Genesis 1:27) This scripture is consistent with "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth." (Genesis 1:1)

And God said, "Let there be light and there was light," and God saw the light that it was good ..." (Genesis 1:3-4) And God called the light Day .... And God said, "Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters." (Genesis 1:5-6) And God made the firmament ... and God called the firmament Heaven ... and God said, "Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together under one place ... and God called the dry [land] Earth ... and God said, "Let the earth bring forth grass." (Genesis 1:7-11)

And God said, "Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night, and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years." (Genesis 1:14) And God made two great lights ... and God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth ... and God said, "Let the waters bring forth abundantly the moving creature that hath life ... and God created ... And God blessed them ... And God said, "Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind; and it was so." (Genesis 1:12-24)

And God made ... (Genesis 1:25)

What did God make?

God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth on the earth after his kind: and God saw that [it was] good. (Genesis 1:25)

Indeed, "God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that He is Lord of heaven and earth, dwells not in temples made with hands, neither is worshiped with men's hands, as though He needed any thing, seeing He gives to all life, and breath, and all things, and hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation, that they should seek the Lord, if haply them might feel after Him and find Him though He be not far away from every one of us ...

For in Him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, "For we are also His offspring." For as much then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to thing that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commands all men every where to repent." (Acts 17:24-30)

"In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie promised before the world began; but hath in due times manifested His Word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour." (Titus 1:2-3)

God -- "who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by [His] Son whom He appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of [His] glory, and the express image of His person and upholding all things by the Word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high -- being made so much better than the angels as He hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent NAME than they." (Hebrews 1:1-4)

The same God who was in the world and the world was made by Him and yet the world knew Him not. The same God who came unto His own and His own received Him not. (John 1:10-11)

The same God -- capital G God -- whom the small g god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ -- who is the image of God should shine unto them. "For we preach not ourselves but Christ Jesus the Lord -- and ourselves, your servants for Jesus sake -- for God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness hath shined in our hearts to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (II Corinthians 4:4-6)

The same God manifest in the flesh. (I Timothy 3:16) The same God who came forth as a mighty man. (Isaiah 42:13) The same "God with us" who willingly came to save His people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21-23)

The One and Only Lord God Almighty.  "One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism. One God and Father of all ..." (Ephesians 4:5-6) And His name in this current dispensation of grace is JESUS the Christ. Our Redeemer. God our Saviour. (Titus 3:4-7) The Prince of Peace and Great I AM. (Isaiah 9:6)

But sadly, in the midst of all these scriptures which clearly point to one God (who by the way loved us enough to shed His precious blood on the cross, taking on a sin prone flesh so that we might find salvation in Him -- Mark 12:28-29; Deuteronomy 6:4) -- what do we see being taught within the church walls? Believers believing that there must be more than one God -- an unknown God as described in Acts 17. This is why Paul said when he found an alter with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN  GOD whom therefore, ye ignorantly worship. (Acts 17:23)

We need to return to the principles of the doctrine of Christ, remaining steadfast in the apostles' doctrine. (Hebrews 6:1-2; Acts 2:36-47) Believers in Jesus by faith need a scriptural foundation so that they do not err in understanding the good news gospel of our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ. And in the same way we need to remember that God Himself -- Almighty God made flesh -- made the earth and the heavens as the scripture repeatedly states, and it is the light of His glorious gospel -- the glorious gospel of Christ who is the visible image of an invisible God -- which allows His light to shine in them.

So -- note that the same so (that should have brought a quick resolution to the question of who Jesus really was when He told His disciples "I and My Father are ONE!" and "If ye have seen Me, ye have seen the Father") should stand on their own merit.  Without question! As Jesus said whilst being tempted in the wilderness, "It is written."

Therefore, the next time you hear someone preach or teach one particular scripture out of context as if the scriptures around these verses (or the accompanying school(s) of thought) can be achieved by doing so, remember that one verse in isolation from the others can never change the very essence of the Word delivered personally by our Lord God and Saviour.

And this includes separating Genesis 1:26 from the rest of the first and second chapter of Genesis when trying to prove that God can't possibly be ONE. Nevertheless, "In the beginning, God" (Genesis 1:1) "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God ... and the Word made flesh, dwelling among us (and we beheld His glory; the glory of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth. (John 1:1-18)

"No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father -- He hath declared [Him]." (John 1:18)

His name is Jesus! Stand in the offering plate.

By Whom We Have Received Grace and Apostleship For Obedience To the Faith -- For His Name - Part 1387

"Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death? Therefore, we are buried with Him by baptism into death; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also [in the likeness] of [His] resurrection, knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [Him] that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.

Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we should also live with Him, knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once; but in that he lives, he lives unto God. Likewise, reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:3-16)

When those who were pricked in their heart on the day of Pentecost -- pricked because Peter (standing with the eleven) told them that this same Jesus whom they had crucified is both Lord and Christ, and they asked what they should do to be saved, Peter told them to "repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:36-38)

Why did Peter say this? To inform those who were were pricked in their hearts that Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life. (John 14:6) And, as part of the apostolic doctrine (in which we are to remain steadfast), believers in the Lord Jesus Christ by faith are to be water baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ so that we can receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:36-47)

Herein, Peter points to three steps -- repentance, water baptism (the like figure where unto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and receipt of the Holy Ghost in our hearts and minds. (Acts 2:38; I Peter 3:21)

These steps are repeated throughout the new testament, and especially the book of Acts, and are included also in the six principles of the doctrine of Christ that dictates believers know and understand -- 1. foundation of repentance from dead works 2. faith toward God 3. the doctrine of baptisms 4. laying on of hands 5. resurrection of the dead 6. eternal judgment. (Hebrews 6:1-2)

I have stated before that God is not the Author of confusion. Every line and every precept aligns perfectly, and when it appears not to, it is because we have not studied the scriptures enough. This is why we need to search the scriptures for truth. Jesus said, "Sanctify them through Thy truth -- Thy Word is truth." (John 17:17)

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth." (II Timothy 2:15)

The Word of the Lord which came unto Hosea prophesied of the new day which was to come. He asked, "Who is wise, and he shall understand these [things]? Prudent and he shall know them? For the ways of the Lord [are] right and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein." (Hosea 14:9)

Therefore, the Lord said, "I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: repentance shall be hid from Mine eyes." (Hosea 13:14)

John the baptist was a forerunner for the coming Messiah -- Jesus the Christ. He was described as a voice crying in the wilderness, always pointing to Jesus. His water baptism was unto repentance that should bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance. (Matthew 3:8) Indeed, John repeatedly said that he must decrease so that Jesus could increase. Why? Because as John said concerning Jesus, "Lo, behold, the Lamb of God." The new testament opens with John baptizing all of Israel in the Jordan, cleansing/purifying the outside according to custom.

John said, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He that comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and [with] fire." (Matthew 3:11) "John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins." (Mark 1:4) "And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins ..." (Luke 3:3)

"When John had first preached before His coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel." (Acts 13:24)

Then said Paul, "John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on Him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus." (Acts 19:4)

To the scribes and Pharisees, John called them a generation of vipers. "Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, "We have Abraham to [our] father," for I say unto you, "That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham." (Luke 3:8)

When Jesus came, note that He did not take repentance or sin away. In fact, Jesus said, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:32) "But go ye and learn what [that] means, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Matthew 9:13; Mark 2:17) There is "likewise joy [that] shall be in heaven," Jesus said, "over one sinner that repents, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance." (Luke 15:7)

"And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:47) This message of repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins is confirmed again in Acts 5:31: "Him hath God exalted with His right hand [to be] a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins." (Acts 5:31) And then later, we see repentance unto life granted to the Gentiles. (Acts 11:18) "Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ." (Acts 20:21)

"But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance." (Acts 26:20) " ... knowing that the goodness of God leads thee to repentance." (Romans 2:4)

What is repentance? Turning one's heart to the Lord and loving our Lord God and Saviour Jesus the Christ with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, desiring the milk of understanding. In the old testament -- For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; "In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength ..." (Isaiah 30:15)

In the new testament -- this current dispensation of grace in which we live, Jesus said to believe that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. (John 14:6) He is the Bread of Life. (John 6:41, 48) He is the Light that cometh into the world, that whosoever believes on Him -- Jesus -- should not abide in darkness. (John 12:44-46) "Abide in Me," Jesus said, "and I in you ..." (John 15:4) Jesus also said, "And this is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which sees the Son and believes on Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:40)

"For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
(For the fruit of the Spirit [is] in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) proving what is acceptable unto the Lord." (Ephesians 5:8-10)

In other words, seek the Lord while He may be found. Know that today is the day of salvation. Because at the times of people's ignorance, God winked; "but now commands all men everywhere to repent, because He will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom He hath ordained; [whereof] He hath given assurance unto all [men], in that He hath raised Him from the dead." (Acts 17:30-31)

Apostle Paul considered repentance this way. "Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow works repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world works death." (II Corinthians 7:9)

"For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded [is] death; but to be spiritually minded [is] life and peace. Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His." (Romans 8:5-9)

And repentance is to the acknowledging of the truth. (II Timothy 2:25) The truth that all should come to repentance -- because the Lord that is not slack concerning His promise (as some men count slackness) but rather is long suffering to us-ward is not willing that any should perish. (II Peter 3:9)

There is more to come on this study in the days ahead. In the interim, "grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, according as His divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue: whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that be these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world ..." (II Peter 1:2-4)

Stand in the offering plate.

Ever Learning And Never Able to Come to the Knowledge of the Lord - Part 1386

Jesus answered and said unto them, "Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God." (Matthew 22:29)

Sadly, as a consequence of believers in Jesus by faith not taking the time to study and search the scriptures, we have become ignorant of the principles of the oracles of God. It is within this context that the Word of the Lord states that "ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For everyone that uses milk is unskillful in the Word of righteousness; for he is a babe. But strong meat belongs to them that are of full age, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." (Hebrews 5:12-14)

Thankfully, there are those believers who wholly understand that the Lord is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Indeed, as the scriptures inform -- "without faith [it] is impossible to please [Him]: for he that comes to God must [first] believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 6:11) 

Therefore, the starting point for salvation must first include repentance from dead works, whereby we recognize that only the Lord Jesus and His gift of grace can save us from sin. That only His precious blood shed on the cross can redeem and sanctify and make us whole.  (Matthew 1:21-23) .

"Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Galatians 2:16)

His Word further states -- "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." (Acts 16:31)

But there is more to being a follower and disciple of Jesus than just believing that Jesus is, and it is critical that we as believers understand this point. In Hebrews, we learn that there are in fact "six principles" of the doctrine of Christ that must be understood, before we can go on unto perfection. Why? Because these collectively make up the foundation -- the one and only apostolic doctrine established in the scriptures for the new testament church -- Jesus being the Head of the body of Christ Church. (Acts 2:36-47) Let me explain.

The sixth chapter of Hebrews begins: "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment." (Hebrews 6:1-2)

As stated earlier, the first step is repentance from dead works. The second is having faith toward God. Note that in the scriptures, the word belief is used interchangeably with faith. But the scriptures also tell us that faith is substance. Faith is the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1) Faith is the confidence that the Lord said what He meant and meant what He said. His promises to us are true.

"The Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you." (Romans 6:11) 

But "without faith [it is] impossible to please [Him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and [that] He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him." (Hebrews 11:6) 

This is why we "therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" knowing that Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords, Almighty God manifest in the flesh. (Hebrews 4:16; I Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 42:13)

Then there are the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. (Hebrews 6:2) Note that the word "baptisms" is plural here, signifying more than one.

We know from the scripture that John baptized in the wilderness and preached the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, and there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. (Mark 1:4-5) In other words, those who were baptized by immersion in the river Jordan admitted that they were sinners.

As we also know, John baptized everyone who came to him because at that time, he did not know who the promised Messiah was. He just knew to tell the Pharisees and Sadducees that the Messiah [Christ] was not him, as he told them to bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.. (Matthew 3:5-10) 

The next day John sees Jesus coming unto him, and saith, "Behold, the Lamb of God which takes away the sin of the world. This is He of whom I said, "After me comes a man which is preferred before me, for He was before me. And I knew Him not but that He should be made manifest to Israel, therefore, am I come baptizing with water." (John 1:29-31)

Later, Jesus told the chief priests and the elders of the people, "For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not, but the publicans and the harlots believed him; and ye, when ye had seen [them], repented not afterward that ye might believe Him." (Matthew 21:32)

And when John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel." (Mark 1:14-15) 

As we can see, the promised Christ came in due time. In preaching the gospel, Jesus told them to repent and believe the gospel. That is, as John the baptist said -- to believe on Him [Jesus] who would come after John. 

"Behold, the Lamb of God which takes away the sin of the world." (John 1:29)

The Seed -- the promised Messiah, of whom John said "is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchets, I am not worthy to unloose." (John 1:27) The time is now fulfilled. In due time, Christ came.

John water baptized so that those baptized would be cleansed on the outside, as was the custom of the day. Still, John repeatedly pointed to Jesus, preaching and saying, "There comes One mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. I indeed have baptized you with water: but He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." (Mark 1:7-8)

What did Jesus tell us to do, just prior to being taken up? "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature ... he that believes and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believes not shall be damned." (Mark 16:16)

But the church folks say that water baptism isn't necessary? Sigh! 

What did Jesus say? " ... he that believes AND is baptized shall be saved!"

And how were new believers baptized in the new testament? On the day of Pentecost, the first 3,000 souls asked Peter (standing with the eleven) what they had to do to be saved. Peter answered and said,  "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:36-47; Acts 10:44-48)

And, as we see, the record of every single person water baptized in the new testament -- after the required purchase was made -- the perfect offering -- Jesus giving His life for us and shedding His blood for our transgressions, was baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 9:15-18) The Word that was with God and was God made flesh. (John 1:1-18; Isaiah 42:13)

Why is baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus critical? When we are buried with Christ in baptism, we are resurrected with Him in His resurrection. (Romans 6:3-4) We are clothed in His righteousness -- His garment -- His name -- the precious name of Jesus. 

"Then they that gladly received His Word were baptized; and the same day there were added [unto them] about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common." (Acts 2:36-45)

And they, continued daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God and having favour with all the people. (Acts 2:46; Acts 1:14; Luke 24:53; Acts 20:7; Acts 5:14) 

Jesus said, " If ye love me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; [even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it sees Him not, neither knows Him: but ye know Him; for He dwells with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world sees Me no more; but ye see Me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in My Father, and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath My commandments, and keeps them, he it is that loves Me: and he that loves Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him." (John 14:15-21)

Thus, when we follow His commandments and abide in Him, we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38; John 15:7; )  Why? 

So "that the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ." (II Thessalonians 1:12)

His Name be praised for evermore. Stand in the offering plate.

(More to follow on this topic in the days ahead)