Sunday, January 28, 2007
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Baptism truths
WATER BAPTISM according to THE BIBLE and HISTORICAL REFERENCES
That relate to doctrines and practices of the Early Church, 33-100 A.D.
compiled by Lewis Manuwal
SHOULD YOU BE IMMERSED or SPRINKLED WHEN BAPTIZED?
The LAST MESSAGE preached by Jesus was a COMMAND to baptize all nations. MATTHEW 28:19
The FIRST MESSAGE preached by the apostles resulted in a command for EVERYONE to be baptized. ACTS 2:38
BAPTISM IS IMPORTANT AND SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED ACCORDING TO SCRIPTURE
Without question the early church taught and practiced baptism by immersion. Paul said, "If we or an angel from heaven preach any other gospel let him be accursed." Galatians 1:8,9
If your form of baptism cannot be found in the Bible, aren't you afraid to practice it?
IMMERSE or SPRINKLE?
BAPTIZO - Greek.................RANTIZO - Greek
Below are writings of imminent Bible scholars and authorities on this subject. Most of these references can be found in your local library.
GREEK
====================
GREEK-ENGLISH LEXICON
by LIDDEL, SCOTT & THAYER................................Baptism taken from Greek word Baptizo - to dip, immerse.
CLASSIC GREEK-ENGLISH DICT.
by POLLET....................................................................Greek word baptizo means to dip under.
GREEK-ENGLISH DICT.
by DIVRY'S...................................................................Greek word baptizo - to immerse
EMPHATIC DIAGLOTT
CONTAINS ORIGINAL GREEK TEXT....................In every instance the Greek word baptizo is translated immerse.
AUTHORITIES
====================
SCHAFF-HERZOG
RELIGIOUS ENCY.......................................................Baptism was always a burial. The command to baptize was a command to immerse. Vol 1. pg.451
CATHOLIC BIBLICAL
ENCYCLOPEDIA..........................................................Immersion was oldest method employed. Buried in baptism. Romans 6:4 Pg.61, Paragraph 2.
ENCYCLOPEDIA DICT.
OF BIBLE........................................................ ..............It is evident that the action performed in baptizing was immersion. Page 202.
WORLD BOOK
ENCYCLOPEDIA..........................................................The early church practiced immersion or submerging under the water. Volume 2, Page 70.
ENCYCLOPEDIA of
LUTHERAN CHURCH.................................................Martin Luther preferred immersion as more true to original practics. Volume 1, Page 188.
PULPIT COMMENTARY
by Imminent Scholars.....................................................Romans 6:4, "Buried in baptism." The reference is to baptism by immersion. Volume 18, Page 156.
LOGIC
====================
An important factor is overlooked by the exponents of sprinklng. The original New Testament text and the spoken language of that day was Greek. The authors of the New Testament knew the Greek word "Baptizo" meant to immerse. They also knew the Greek word "rantizo" meant to sprinkle. These often used words were never interchangeable, having seperate meanings. If God had intended for His ministers to sprinkle, the Greek word "rantizo" would have been employed, not "baptizo."
If sprinkling cannot be found in the Bible, then you are practicing a tradition of man, which makes the "word of God of none effect." Mark 7:13
INFANT BAPTISM
====================
As with sprinkling, the doctrine of infant baptism cannot be found in the New Testament without adding to it.
Scripture logic cries out against infant baptism. The very mode (immersion) makes it illogical and impractical. The teaching surrounding baptism automatically prohibits it.
THE BIBLE SPEAKS!
====================
MATT. 28:19 - "Teach all nations, baptizing them" - Teaching or preaching must precede baptism. See Acts 2:41
ACTS 8:36,37 - Eunuch. "What doth hinder me to be baptized?" Phillip, "If Thou believest with all thine heart." Believing is a prerequisite of baptism. See, Mark 16:16.
ACTS 2:38 - "Repent and be baptized everyone of you." Repentance must precede Baptism. See, Luke 24:47.
DO YOU KNOW?
====================
That the first recipients of baptism were adults. Infant baptism was a later development that led to sprinkling. - Chambers Encyclopedia, Vol 2, Pg.112
There's no direct evidence in New Testament for infant baptism. - Interpreters Bible Dict. Vol 1, Pg. 352
The earliest Christian literature makes no reference to baptism of infants. - Encyclopedia Britannica, Vol 3, Pg 138
The first mention of infant baptism was about 185 A.D. Not universal until 6th Century. - History of Church, by WALKER, Pgs 87,88
That 350 Lutheran pastors of W. Germany wish to abandon infant baptism. Many of these same pastors refused to baptize their own infants. They felt that baptism should be understood first by the recipient. - Time Magazine, Pg 58-May, 1968
That Karl Barth of Swizterland, the best known Theologian of 20th Century said, "There is not Biblical basis for infant baptism-this tradition is simply an old error of the church." - Time Magazine, Pg 58-May, 1968
A child should be old enough to receive teaching, believe, and repent of sin before being baptized. Dedicating children to God and asking Him to bless them is Biblical. This Jesus did in Luke 18:15-17, Matthew 19:13-15
BAPTISM
IS IT IN THE PLAN OF SALVATION
Listed below are three of many reasons why baptism is an absolute necessity
1. THE BIBLE SAYS SO!
JOHN 3:5 - "Except a man be born of the water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God." Most Bible commentaries agree that water here refers to baptism.
** See, Matthew-Henry, Adam Clark, Hist. Christian Church, Walker, Catholic Encycl., Oxford Dict. of Church, Interpreters Dict. of Bible., Temples Bible Dict.**
MARK 16:16 - "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." Notice how Jesus places baptism in conjunction with salvation.
1 Peter. 3:21 - "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us." Also see Acts 10:6 and 48.
2. IT REMITS SIN
HEBREWS 9:22 - The application of the blood of Christ is necessary to remit sin. What then is the Biblical way to receive remission of sin? The answer to this question will also be the only way to get the Saviour's blood applied.
LUKE 24:47 - "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name...." (Jesus)
ACTS 2:38 - "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins..." The blood of Jesus is applied only through water baptism in the name of Jesus. Also see 1 John 5:8 and Acts 22:16
3. BAPTIZED INTO CHURCH
Every New Testament church was formed by those whom were baptized into the faith after believing and repenting. Gal 3:27 and 1 Cor 12:13
CHURCH AT JERUSALEM - 3000 added by baptism after receiving the word. Acts 2:41
CHURCH AT SAMARIA - Believed and were baptized, men & women. Acts - :12-16
CHURCH AT CAESAREA - Peter commanded them to be baptized. Acts 10:48
CHURCH AT PHILIPPI - Lydia & the Phillipian jailer baptized Acts 16:14-33
CHURCH AT CORINTH - Paul preached. They believed and were baptized. Acts 18:8
CHURCH AT EPHESUS - Paul rebaptizes those improperly baptized. Acts 19:1-6
CHURCH AT GALATIA - Believed Paul and baptized into Christ. Gal 3:27
CHURCH AT COLOSSE - They were buried with Christ in baptism. Col 2:12
CHURCH AT ROME - They died to sin, then buried in baptism. Romans 6:1-4
BAPTISM
1. IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, SON & HOLY GHOST
- or -
2. IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST
Which of These Were Practiced By the Apostles in the Early Church?
Matthew 28:19 was a command by Jesus to baptize in the NAME. The Apostoles did not repeat the word of the command, but they did obey it as seen in the scriptures above. Since Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are titles of the manifestations of the Almighty Spirit and His body, the Apostoles understood His SAVING NAME to be JESUS. Can any dare say that the Apostoles disobeyed the Lord, or failed to baptize properly? THE NAME OF THE FATHER, SON, AND HOLY GHOST IS LORD JESUS CHRIST. The actions of the Apostles in the Book of Acts prove this to be true.
BAPTISM
IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
HOW DID THE EARLY CHURCH INTERPRET CHRIST'S COMMAND IN MATTHEW 28:19? ACTS 2:38, 8:16, 10:48, and 19:5 are four Biblical refernces that answer this question. If the Biblical record is not enough, please examine the findings of the educated, scholars, and historians.
Britannica Encyclopedia - 11th Edition, Volume 3, page 365 - Baptism was changed from the name of Jesus to words Father, Son & Holy Ghost in 2nd Century.
Canney Encyclopedia of Religion - page 53 - The early church baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus until the second century.
Hastings Encyclopedia of Religion - Volume 2 - Christian baptism was administered using the words, "in the name of Jesus." page 377. Baptism was always in the name of Jesus until time of Justin Martyr, page 389
Catholic Encyclopedia - Volume 2, page 435 - Here the authors acknowledged that be baptismal formula was changed by their church.
Schaff - Herzog Religious Encyclopedia - Volume 1, page 435 - The New Testament knows only the baptism in the name of Jesus.
Hastings Dictionary of the Bible - page 88 - It must be acknowledged that the three fold name of Matthew 28:19 does not appear to have been used by the primitive church, but rather in the name of Jesus or Lord Jesus.
IS IT AN ABSOLUTE NECESSITY THAT THE NAME OF JESUS BE SPOKEN OR CALLED OVER A CANDIDATE FOR WATER BAPTISM WHEN HE IS BEING BAPTIZED? For the answer to this question, please read Acts 15:17 and James 2:7 [Greek Linear]. First Century Christians INVOKED OR CALLED the name of Jesus over believers in water baptism. If, as some say, "the name of Jesus means the authority of Jesus", then so much more should the NAME, rather than the titles, be called over an individual in baptism. Read Matthew 28:18, Acts 4:12 and Colossians 2:9. Jude 3 is an exhortation to "CONTEND FOR THE FAITH ONCE DELIVERED TO THE SAINTS." See Galatians 1:8-9 also. Should anyone dare to change what CHRIST and the Apostles established?
The above information was taken from "WATER BAPTISM according to THE BIBLE and Historical References" (compiled by Lewis Manuwal)
8855 Dunn Road
Hazelwood, Missouri 63042
(posted 01-16-06)
That relate to doctrines and practices of the Early Church, 33-100 A.D.
compiled by Lewis Manuwal
SHOULD YOU BE IMMERSED or SPRINKLED WHEN BAPTIZED?
The LAST MESSAGE preached by Jesus was a COMMAND to baptize all nations. MATTHEW 28:19
The FIRST MESSAGE preached by the apostles resulted in a command for EVERYONE to be baptized. ACTS 2:38
BAPTISM IS IMPORTANT AND SHOULD BE ADMINISTERED ACCORDING TO SCRIPTURE
Without question the early church taught and practiced baptism by immersion. Paul said, "If we or an angel from heaven preach any other gospel let him be accursed." Galatians 1:8,9
If your form of baptism cannot be found in the Bible, aren't you afraid to practice it?
IMMERSE or SPRINKLE?
BAPTIZO - Greek.................RANTIZO - Greek
Below are writings of imminent Bible scholars and authorities on this subject. Most of these references can be found in your local library.
GREEK
====================
GREEK-ENGLISH LEXICON
by LIDDEL, SCOTT & THAYER................................Baptism taken from Greek word Baptizo - to dip, immerse.
CLASSIC GREEK-ENGLISH DICT.
by POLLET....................................................................Greek word baptizo means to dip under.
GREEK-ENGLISH DICT.
by DIVRY'S...................................................................Greek word baptizo - to immerse
EMPHATIC DIAGLOTT
CONTAINS ORIGINAL GREEK TEXT....................In every instance the Greek word baptizo is translated immerse.
AUTHORITIES
====================
SCHAFF-HERZOG
RELIGIOUS ENCY.......................................................Baptism was always a burial. The command to baptize was a command to immerse. Vol 1. pg.451
CATHOLIC BIBLICAL
ENCYCLOPEDIA..........................................................Immersion was oldest method employed. Buried in baptism. Romans 6:4 Pg.61, Paragraph 2.
ENCYCLOPEDIA DICT.
OF BIBLE........................................................ ..............It is evident that the action performed in baptizing was immersion. Page 202.
WORLD BOOK
ENCYCLOPEDIA..........................................................The early church practiced immersion or submerging under the water. Volume 2, Page 70.
ENCYCLOPEDIA of
LUTHERAN CHURCH.................................................Martin Luther preferred immersion as more true to original practics. Volume 1, Page 188.
PULPIT COMMENTARY
by Imminent Scholars.....................................................Romans 6:4, "Buried in baptism." The reference is to baptism by immersion. Volume 18, Page 156.
LOGIC
====================
An important factor is overlooked by the exponents of sprinklng. The original New Testament text and the spoken language of that day was Greek. The authors of the New Testament knew the Greek word "Baptizo" meant to immerse. They also knew the Greek word "rantizo" meant to sprinkle. These often used words were never interchangeable, having seperate meanings. If God had intended for His ministers to sprinkle, the Greek word "rantizo" would have been employed, not "baptizo."
If sprinkling cannot be found in the Bible, then you are practicing a tradition of man, which makes the "word of God of none effect." Mark 7:13
INFANT BAPTISM
====================
As with sprinkling, the doctrine of infant baptism cannot be found in the New Testament without adding to it.
Scripture logic cries out against infant baptism. The very mode (immersion) makes it illogical and impractical. The teaching surrounding baptism automatically prohibits it.
THE BIBLE SPEAKS!
====================
MATT. 28:19 - "Teach all nations, baptizing them" - Teaching or preaching must precede baptism. See Acts 2:41
ACTS 8:36,37 - Eunuch. "What doth hinder me to be baptized?" Phillip, "If Thou believest with all thine heart." Believing is a prerequisite of baptism. See, Mark 16:16.
ACTS 2:38 - "Repent and be baptized everyone of you." Repentance must precede Baptism. See, Luke 24:47.
DO YOU KNOW?
====================
That the first recipients of baptism were adults. Infant baptism was a later development that led to sprinkling. - Chambers Encyclopedia, Vol 2, Pg.112
There's no direct evidence in New Testament for infant baptism. - Interpreters Bible Dict. Vol 1, Pg. 352
The earliest Christian literature makes no reference to baptism of infants. - Encyclopedia Britannica, Vol 3, Pg 138
The first mention of infant baptism was about 185 A.D. Not universal until 6th Century. - History of Church, by WALKER, Pgs 87,88
That 350 Lutheran pastors of W. Germany wish to abandon infant baptism. Many of these same pastors refused to baptize their own infants. They felt that baptism should be understood first by the recipient. - Time Magazine, Pg 58-May, 1968
That Karl Barth of Swizterland, the best known Theologian of 20th Century said, "There is not Biblical basis for infant baptism-this tradition is simply an old error of the church." - Time Magazine, Pg 58-May, 1968
A child should be old enough to receive teaching, believe, and repent of sin before being baptized. Dedicating children to God and asking Him to bless them is Biblical. This Jesus did in Luke 18:15-17, Matthew 19:13-15
BAPTISM
IS IT IN THE PLAN OF SALVATION
Listed below are three of many reasons why baptism is an absolute necessity
1. THE BIBLE SAYS SO!
JOHN 3:5 - "Except a man be born of the water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God." Most Bible commentaries agree that water here refers to baptism.
** See, Matthew-Henry, Adam Clark, Hist. Christian Church, Walker, Catholic Encycl., Oxford Dict. of Church, Interpreters Dict. of Bible., Temples Bible Dict.**
MARK 16:16 - "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." Notice how Jesus places baptism in conjunction with salvation.
1 Peter. 3:21 - "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us." Also see Acts 10:6 and 48.
2. IT REMITS SIN
HEBREWS 9:22 - The application of the blood of Christ is necessary to remit sin. What then is the Biblical way to receive remission of sin? The answer to this question will also be the only way to get the Saviour's blood applied.
LUKE 24:47 - "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name...." (Jesus)
ACTS 2:38 - "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins..." The blood of Jesus is applied only through water baptism in the name of Jesus. Also see 1 John 5:8 and Acts 22:16
3. BAPTIZED INTO CHURCH
Every New Testament church was formed by those whom were baptized into the faith after believing and repenting. Gal 3:27 and 1 Cor 12:13
CHURCH AT JERUSALEM - 3000 added by baptism after receiving the word. Acts 2:41
CHURCH AT SAMARIA - Believed and were baptized, men & women. Acts - :12-16
CHURCH AT CAESAREA - Peter commanded them to be baptized. Acts 10:48
CHURCH AT PHILIPPI - Lydia & the Phillipian jailer baptized Acts 16:14-33
CHURCH AT CORINTH - Paul preached. They believed and were baptized. Acts 18:8
CHURCH AT EPHESUS - Paul rebaptizes those improperly baptized. Acts 19:1-6
CHURCH AT GALATIA - Believed Paul and baptized into Christ. Gal 3:27
CHURCH AT COLOSSE - They were buried with Christ in baptism. Col 2:12
CHURCH AT ROME - They died to sin, then buried in baptism. Romans 6:1-4
BAPTISM
1. IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, SON & HOLY GHOST
- or -
2. IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST
Which of These Were Practiced By the Apostles in the Early Church?
Matthew 28:19 was a command by Jesus to baptize in the NAME. The Apostoles did not repeat the word of the command, but they did obey it as seen in the scriptures above. Since Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are titles of the manifestations of the Almighty Spirit and His body, the Apostoles understood His SAVING NAME to be JESUS. Can any dare say that the Apostoles disobeyed the Lord, or failed to baptize properly? THE NAME OF THE FATHER, SON, AND HOLY GHOST IS LORD JESUS CHRIST. The actions of the Apostles in the Book of Acts prove this to be true.
BAPTISM
IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST
HOW DID THE EARLY CHURCH INTERPRET CHRIST'S COMMAND IN MATTHEW 28:19? ACTS 2:38, 8:16, 10:48, and 19:5 are four Biblical refernces that answer this question. If the Biblical record is not enough, please examine the findings of the educated, scholars, and historians.
Britannica Encyclopedia - 11th Edition, Volume 3, page 365 - Baptism was changed from the name of Jesus to words Father, Son & Holy Ghost in 2nd Century.
Canney Encyclopedia of Religion - page 53 - The early church baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus until the second century.
Hastings Encyclopedia of Religion - Volume 2 - Christian baptism was administered using the words, "in the name of Jesus." page 377. Baptism was always in the name of Jesus until time of Justin Martyr, page 389
Catholic Encyclopedia - Volume 2, page 435 - Here the authors acknowledged that be baptismal formula was changed by their church.
Schaff - Herzog Religious Encyclopedia - Volume 1, page 435 - The New Testament knows only the baptism in the name of Jesus.
Hastings Dictionary of the Bible - page 88 - It must be acknowledged that the three fold name of Matthew 28:19 does not appear to have been used by the primitive church, but rather in the name of Jesus or Lord Jesus.
IS IT AN ABSOLUTE NECESSITY THAT THE NAME OF JESUS BE SPOKEN OR CALLED OVER A CANDIDATE FOR WATER BAPTISM WHEN HE IS BEING BAPTIZED? For the answer to this question, please read Acts 15:17 and James 2:7 [Greek Linear]. First Century Christians INVOKED OR CALLED the name of Jesus over believers in water baptism. If, as some say, "the name of Jesus means the authority of Jesus", then so much more should the NAME, rather than the titles, be called over an individual in baptism. Read Matthew 28:18, Acts 4:12 and Colossians 2:9. Jude 3 is an exhortation to "CONTEND FOR THE FAITH ONCE DELIVERED TO THE SAINTS." See Galatians 1:8-9 also. Should anyone dare to change what CHRIST and the Apostles established?
The above information was taken from "WATER BAPTISM according to THE BIBLE and Historical References" (compiled by Lewis Manuwal)
8855 Dunn Road
Hazelwood, Missouri 63042
(posted 01-16-06)
Friday, January 12, 2007
Found At UnsealedProphecy.com
Things to Consider-A Wake-Up Call
The events alone of the past fifty years should speak volumes to anyone who knows anything about biblical prophecy. For those unfamiliar with bible prophecy, this will do more than just raise your eyebrows. Hopefully, this will serve as a wake-up call to believer and non-believer alike.
Within the past fifty years, we have seen numerous prophecies (God’s promises) fulfilled. To name a few…
The rise of the European Union - the world’s last great empire (Daniel 7:7, Revelation 13)
The creation of a European army (Daniel 11:38-39)
Rebirth of the nation of Israel after 1900 years, and back in their own land (Jeremiah 23:7-8, and many other places)
Restoration of Biblical Hebrew, as a living language (Zephaniah 3:9)
Personal identification chips - now used widely (Revelation 13:16-18)
Instantaneous worldwide communication (Revelation 11:9-10)
Explosion in knowledge in the last days - electronic knowledge doubling every six months (Daniel 12:4)
The development of weapons that can destroy an entire city in just one hour (Revelation 18:19)
Jerusalem - a source of worldwide contention (Zechariah 12:2-3)
A peace process in the middle east with many nations involved (Daniel 9:27), with the issue of land at its very heart (Daniel 11:39)
The Jewish Temple ready for rebuilding, and sacrifices resuming (Daniel 9:27)
A decline in the moral behaviour of society (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
Terrible catastrophes and natural devastation increasing (Luke 21:25-26)
Nobody can deny all these things have happened, or will soon happen. They are in the news almost every week.
Here’s more to digest:
1) The year 2007 should see the ratification of the European Constitution, fulfilling Scripture, creating the role of a EU President and Foreign Minister, or the “prince” of the people of Rome (Daniel 9:26).
2) The European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), a seven year stability agreement with the EU and 16 Middle East nations, of which Israel was first to sign, lasts from 2007-2013. Javier Solana, the High Representative of the European Common, Foreign and Security Policy is responsible for this policy (the prince of the people?). This agreement is to be confirmed with all nations on January 1st, 2007 (Daniel 9:27). The ENP also has a mid-term review period, similar to the covenant mentioned in the book of Daniel.
3) Iran is expected to possess enough enriched Uranium to produce a nuclear weapon by around 2009-2010 (also here), if not by 2007, with knowledge on how to build a bomb already obtained on the black market. Russia and China are heavily involved in Iran’s nuclear programme. Diplomacy has failed catastrophically in regards to Iran, and President Ahmedinejad is actively seeking war with Israel and the West. Israel is expected to take matters into its own hands, possibly fulfilling the prophecy of a Russian/Muslim invasion of Israel within months if not years, as foretold in Ezekiel 38-39. Ezekiel stated this war would occur in the “latter days”, possibly just prior to the beginning of the tribulation period.
4) The EU is working towards implementing its 2010 Headline Goal, a military response group capable of being launched anywhere within the world in 5 to 10 days. If the years 2007-2013 turn out to be the tribulation period, the EU will have a force capable of fulfilling the Antichrist’s invasion of the Middle East after the covenant fails (Daniel 11:40-45).
5) The European Union hopes to have its Battle Groups concept, similar to the idea of the old Roman Legions, up and running by 2007. Thirteen Battle Groups are to be operational by 2010. Each Battle Group consists of around 1500 troops from one or more nations.
6) The EU is also working towards launching a new global communications system by 2010, called GMES, and will “provide authorities with necessary elements for a European Security and Defence Policy”. Europe is well on its way to becoming a world military power. Russia is also aiming to deploy its own network of satellites by the year 2010, called Glonass. This will consist of 24 satellites which will significantly boost the Russian Federation’s military capabilities.
7) Tony Blair says the world has just seven years, or until 2012, to fix the global warming problem before it will be too late. This corresponds with descriptions in the book of Revelation regarding the plagues that will cause men to blaspheme the name of God (Revelation 16:8-9). Some scientists feel we have already passed the point of no return.
8) The British government will implement a compulsory national identification card system by 2010. Many other nations are considering implementing a similar scheme. This mandatory national identification scheme will be a precursor to the introduction of the Mark of the Beast, possibly an implantable RFID tag.
9) Meteorologists are expecting the next solar cycle to be around 30-50% stronger than the last one, significantly disrupting weather patterns and knocking out communication satellites. This cycle is to peak in 2012.
Quote: “There is disagreement on exactly when the new cycle will begin — one key researcher predicted the cycle will start in late 2007 or early 2008, and another said it could begin either late this year or in early 2007. But they did agree that the most severe storms won’t begin popping on the solar surface for several years, but when they do, they’ll be huge. The solar storms in the past have knocked out huge power grids and screwed up global electronics and data communications, but “the next sunspot cycle will be 30 to 50 percent stronger than the last one,” the scientists said in Monday’s statement.
10) Israel is aiming at 2010 as the year to finalize its borders, even if it means doing it without the agreement of the Palestinian Authority. Prime Minister designate Olmert has insisted on holding on to East Jerusalem, which according to Scripture, will be recaptured by Gentiles by force (Zechariah 14:2). 2010 will put Israel seeking final status borders right in the middle of this seven year period.
11) There will be a lunar eclipse on the feast of Purim in March, 2007, over the entire Middle East. The Jews celebrate Purim as the day the Lord delivered them from their enemies and wicked Haman. The moon, which represents the Messiah in Jewish tradition, will be eclipsed over the entire Middle East on that exact date. I think its significant the lunar eclipse occurs during Purim, when the Jews all over the world will be celebrating the day God delivered them from their enemies. God veiling the moon in darkness (representing the Messiah) could be seen as a warning to Israel of the impending judgement the nation will face during the tribulation period before experiencing deliverance.
12) EU Action Plan agreed on improving animal welfare within the European Union, for the period 2006-2010. Could the renewal of this document be the one that causes the sacrifice and oblation to cease, halfway through the Antichrist’s reign? (Daniel 9:27)
13) The EU is aiming to implement numerous free trade agreements across the world by the year 2010, which will no doubt boost Europe’s political influence across the globe. Someone once said, control energy and you can influence governments, control food and you can influence the individual. The European Union started out as a simple European Coal and Steel Community pact, where European nations agreed to pool their energy resources. The North American Union, a regional government which Mexico, the US and Canada are setting up, is starting off as a simple trade and security pact. We have no reason to believe we can expect anything less from these free trade agreements.
14) Experts are predicting global oil supplies may peak around the year 2010. This won’t mean the oil supplies will run out, rather as the demand of oil - especially from booming economies like China - continues to outstrip supplies, the price of oil is expected to rocket.
Quote: “”Oil supply will peak in 2010-11 at around 92 to 94 million barrels a day,” he said. “We have just 1500 days to peak. Collectively, we are still in denial.”
15) The year 2007 falls 40 years after the recapture of Jerusalem, in the 1967 Six Day war. A biblical generation is believed to be from 40-70 years. Remember this:
Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. Luke 21:32
This is just prophetic news relating directly to this particular time period, 2007-2013. We have already seen how RFID is stepping in to fulfil the role of the Mark of the Beast. Even if 2007 doesn’t turn out to be the start of the tribulation period, the world is well on its way to fulfilling end times prophecy as foretold in Scripture. Bible prophecy is no longer vague and something for the next generation to worry about, it’s happening here and now, and if you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you will be left to face the tragic death and destruction that is foretold for the tribulation. Over one third of the world’s population will die during this seven year period (Revelation 9:15). Those that refuse to accept the Antichrist’s system will face the death sentence (Revelation 13:15). The future according to world opinion is bleak, perhaps non-existent. The only hope can be found in the Scriptures, in the God who knows the end from the beginning. The Bible tells us that now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation.
And time is running out.
See also:
Prophecy in the News
FulfilledProphecy.com
Recommendation 666
The events alone of the past fifty years should speak volumes to anyone who knows anything about biblical prophecy. For those unfamiliar with bible prophecy, this will do more than just raise your eyebrows. Hopefully, this will serve as a wake-up call to believer and non-believer alike.
Within the past fifty years, we have seen numerous prophecies (God’s promises) fulfilled. To name a few…
The rise of the European Union - the world’s last great empire (Daniel 7:7, Revelation 13)
The creation of a European army (Daniel 11:38-39)
Rebirth of the nation of Israel after 1900 years, and back in their own land (Jeremiah 23:7-8, and many other places)
Restoration of Biblical Hebrew, as a living language (Zephaniah 3:9)
Personal identification chips - now used widely (Revelation 13:16-18)
Instantaneous worldwide communication (Revelation 11:9-10)
Explosion in knowledge in the last days - electronic knowledge doubling every six months (Daniel 12:4)
The development of weapons that can destroy an entire city in just one hour (Revelation 18:19)
Jerusalem - a source of worldwide contention (Zechariah 12:2-3)
A peace process in the middle east with many nations involved (Daniel 9:27), with the issue of land at its very heart (Daniel 11:39)
The Jewish Temple ready for rebuilding, and sacrifices resuming (Daniel 9:27)
A decline in the moral behaviour of society (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
Terrible catastrophes and natural devastation increasing (Luke 21:25-26)
Nobody can deny all these things have happened, or will soon happen. They are in the news almost every week.
Here’s more to digest:
1) The year 2007 should see the ratification of the European Constitution, fulfilling Scripture, creating the role of a EU President and Foreign Minister, or the “prince” of the people of Rome (Daniel 9:26).
2) The European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), a seven year stability agreement with the EU and 16 Middle East nations, of which Israel was first to sign, lasts from 2007-2013. Javier Solana, the High Representative of the European Common, Foreign and Security Policy is responsible for this policy (the prince of the people?). This agreement is to be confirmed with all nations on January 1st, 2007 (Daniel 9:27). The ENP also has a mid-term review period, similar to the covenant mentioned in the book of Daniel.
3) Iran is expected to possess enough enriched Uranium to produce a nuclear weapon by around 2009-2010 (also here), if not by 2007, with knowledge on how to build a bomb already obtained on the black market. Russia and China are heavily involved in Iran’s nuclear programme. Diplomacy has failed catastrophically in regards to Iran, and President Ahmedinejad is actively seeking war with Israel and the West. Israel is expected to take matters into its own hands, possibly fulfilling the prophecy of a Russian/Muslim invasion of Israel within months if not years, as foretold in Ezekiel 38-39. Ezekiel stated this war would occur in the “latter days”, possibly just prior to the beginning of the tribulation period.
4) The EU is working towards implementing its 2010 Headline Goal, a military response group capable of being launched anywhere within the world in 5 to 10 days. If the years 2007-2013 turn out to be the tribulation period, the EU will have a force capable of fulfilling the Antichrist’s invasion of the Middle East after the covenant fails (Daniel 11:40-45).
5) The European Union hopes to have its Battle Groups concept, similar to the idea of the old Roman Legions, up and running by 2007. Thirteen Battle Groups are to be operational by 2010. Each Battle Group consists of around 1500 troops from one or more nations.
6) The EU is also working towards launching a new global communications system by 2010, called GMES, and will “provide authorities with necessary elements for a European Security and Defence Policy”. Europe is well on its way to becoming a world military power. Russia is also aiming to deploy its own network of satellites by the year 2010, called Glonass. This will consist of 24 satellites which will significantly boost the Russian Federation’s military capabilities.
7) Tony Blair says the world has just seven years, or until 2012, to fix the global warming problem before it will be too late. This corresponds with descriptions in the book of Revelation regarding the plagues that will cause men to blaspheme the name of God (Revelation 16:8-9). Some scientists feel we have already passed the point of no return.
8) The British government will implement a compulsory national identification card system by 2010. Many other nations are considering implementing a similar scheme. This mandatory national identification scheme will be a precursor to the introduction of the Mark of the Beast, possibly an implantable RFID tag.
9) Meteorologists are expecting the next solar cycle to be around 30-50% stronger than the last one, significantly disrupting weather patterns and knocking out communication satellites. This cycle is to peak in 2012.
Quote: “There is disagreement on exactly when the new cycle will begin — one key researcher predicted the cycle will start in late 2007 or early 2008, and another said it could begin either late this year or in early 2007. But they did agree that the most severe storms won’t begin popping on the solar surface for several years, but when they do, they’ll be huge. The solar storms in the past have knocked out huge power grids and screwed up global electronics and data communications, but “the next sunspot cycle will be 30 to 50 percent stronger than the last one,” the scientists said in Monday’s statement.
10) Israel is aiming at 2010 as the year to finalize its borders, even if it means doing it without the agreement of the Palestinian Authority. Prime Minister designate Olmert has insisted on holding on to East Jerusalem, which according to Scripture, will be recaptured by Gentiles by force (Zechariah 14:2). 2010 will put Israel seeking final status borders right in the middle of this seven year period.
11) There will be a lunar eclipse on the feast of Purim in March, 2007, over the entire Middle East. The Jews celebrate Purim as the day the Lord delivered them from their enemies and wicked Haman. The moon, which represents the Messiah in Jewish tradition, will be eclipsed over the entire Middle East on that exact date. I think its significant the lunar eclipse occurs during Purim, when the Jews all over the world will be celebrating the day God delivered them from their enemies. God veiling the moon in darkness (representing the Messiah) could be seen as a warning to Israel of the impending judgement the nation will face during the tribulation period before experiencing deliverance.
12) EU Action Plan agreed on improving animal welfare within the European Union, for the period 2006-2010. Could the renewal of this document be the one that causes the sacrifice and oblation to cease, halfway through the Antichrist’s reign? (Daniel 9:27)
13) The EU is aiming to implement numerous free trade agreements across the world by the year 2010, which will no doubt boost Europe’s political influence across the globe. Someone once said, control energy and you can influence governments, control food and you can influence the individual. The European Union started out as a simple European Coal and Steel Community pact, where European nations agreed to pool their energy resources. The North American Union, a regional government which Mexico, the US and Canada are setting up, is starting off as a simple trade and security pact. We have no reason to believe we can expect anything less from these free trade agreements.
14) Experts are predicting global oil supplies may peak around the year 2010. This won’t mean the oil supplies will run out, rather as the demand of oil - especially from booming economies like China - continues to outstrip supplies, the price of oil is expected to rocket.
Quote: “”Oil supply will peak in 2010-11 at around 92 to 94 million barrels a day,” he said. “We have just 1500 days to peak. Collectively, we are still in denial.”
15) The year 2007 falls 40 years after the recapture of Jerusalem, in the 1967 Six Day war. A biblical generation is believed to be from 40-70 years. Remember this:
Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. Luke 21:32
This is just prophetic news relating directly to this particular time period, 2007-2013. We have already seen how RFID is stepping in to fulfil the role of the Mark of the Beast. Even if 2007 doesn’t turn out to be the start of the tribulation period, the world is well on its way to fulfilling end times prophecy as foretold in Scripture. Bible prophecy is no longer vague and something for the next generation to worry about, it’s happening here and now, and if you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you will be left to face the tragic death and destruction that is foretold for the tribulation. Over one third of the world’s population will die during this seven year period (Revelation 9:15). Those that refuse to accept the Antichrist’s system will face the death sentence (Revelation 13:15). The future according to world opinion is bleak, perhaps non-existent. The only hope can be found in the Scriptures, in the God who knows the end from the beginning. The Bible tells us that now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation.
And time is running out.
See also:
Prophecy in the News
FulfilledProphecy.com
Recommendation 666
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Conflict Among Brethren
Jesus prayed that his followers would be unified!
John17: 17. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
18. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
19. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.
20. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
21. That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
22. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
23. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
Paul taught that we should be unified!
1Cor. 1: 9. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
10. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
11. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.
12. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
13. Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
23. But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
24. But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
25. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26. For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
27. 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;
1Cor.2: 1. And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
3. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
4. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the spirit and of power:
5. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
1Cor.3: 1. And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
2. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
3. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
CONFLICT within the ranks of Christian believers, especially within the ranks of the leading elders, is not a spiritually desirable situation. It is embarrassingly shameful, and contrary to the Spirit and Word of God!
The disunity among Christians is reason enough for unbelievers to avoid those who would try to witness the love of God tho them.
What "standards" or exclusionary doctrines that we teach are valid to dismiss our brethren that Jesus died for? We may not all agree on all points, but does that make those who disagree with us lost? a few examples...
Prophecy:
Ministers of the same fellowships have a running gentlemen’s' feud over their prophetic understanding. Or not so gentlemanly, calling names, and trying to line up constituencies defending their own turf. It can seem as though we may be sometimes defending our own turf, our own kingdom, rather than the kingdom of God. This does not always result in officially breaking fellowship, but the unyielding competitiveness of ideas effectively displays a disunity, or broken fellowship, in fact, if not in confession. Dispensationalists and preterists must learn to love their brethren with whom they disagree.
Divorce:
Can any divorced believer remarry and be saved? Can their new spouse? Not if you listen to some ministers/fellowships. Is divorce and remarriage the unforgivable sin? Nobody says they believe that, until they preach on it! According to Questions Pentecostals Ask, vol.1, David Grey writes regarding that question that in agreement with the UPCI handbook, once the marriage is broken by sin, the new marriage is valid in the eyes of Jesus. It was sin that broke the first, but it is a sin that may be covered by the blood. The new marriage is recognized by God as the valid marriage now. UPCI ministers aren't all teaching this doctrine, causing some sinners to be without an altar to repent at. The UPCI is not alone in this tragedy.
Hair length:
There is much controversy over the teaching of 1 Cor.11:1-16, whether holiness teachers believe that or not. Many are of the understanding that Paul was addressing a specific problem facing that church at that time concerning the pagan worship of Dionysus/Bacchus where the pagan worshippers would cross-dress, men wearing long hair (and female attire/jewelry/make-up), women cutting their hair short (to appear mannish, wearing men's attire) in the worship of a pagan God. They believe Paul was teaching them not to be identified with those pagans. Each side is sincere, acting in faith on what they feel is honest and accurate. Should either side act as though the other set is "lost" or "backslidden
Women in pants?
“Holiness” churches teach that their women can’t wear pants, or shorts, or even sometimes culottes. Many have the understanding that females in ladies slacks, or in pants purchased in the ladies department are not apparel that pertains to a man. If a man would be seen in many of these ladies apparel, they would be accused of wearing ladies clothing, so how could it also be men's clothing? It isn’t that there is anything inherently wrong with holding a standard for congregations to stay within, but to teach that all who stray outside these particular standards are “going to hell” forges self righteousness among the congregants.
Television:
It is almost silly to go there, but we all probably know several or many who belong to "no TV" groups who have TVs, making their saints hypocrites. Movies also belong in this category. Radios are not permitted to our Old German Baptist brethren, and others…
It would seem that we can specialize in creating sin where no sin exists, until we preach condemnation where none should exist. I have heard it taught/preached that women can't wear open toed shoes. I've also been taught that men can't have beards or mustaches, play with playing cards that may be used to play poker, or any game utilizing dice! Some preach against going to amusement parks. Some congregations wear wedding bands, some make visiting preachers remove them before they can approach the pulpit.
It is enough to make one wonder if the church understands true holiness at all!
BRETHREN-THIS HAS TO STOP!
What are the scriptural grounds for resorting to the breaking fellowship with another believer? Prophetic understanding? Dress standards? Terminology? Differences of opinion? Divorce?
1Cor.5: 9. I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:
10. Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.
11. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
12. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
13. But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
1Cor.6:9. Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10. Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Col. 2: 8. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
The context of this verse is discussing the godhead, but its usefulness for this current dilemma, can't be overstated. We must stop philosophizing holiness and perpetuating the traditions of men!
THE NECESSARY THINGS...
Acts 15: 28. For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
29. That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
1Cor 6: 12. All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
1Cor 10:23. All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
Romans 13: 8. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
9. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
10. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
Romans 14: 1. Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
2. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
3. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
4. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.
5. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
6. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
7. For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
8. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.
13. 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.
14. I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
22. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.
23. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
The Revival we all want will not come to us until we stop failing to discern the body of Christ. We are held back by our self righteous, carnal pride. We must stop seeing those that understand things differently as our enemy, or worse, the enemy of Christ! Until we can drop our guard, lower our defenses and truly dialogue with one another, using only the word of God as our guide, we are doomed to be less than we are called to be.
John17: 17. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
18. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
19. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.
20. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
21. That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
22. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
23. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
Paul taught that we should be unified!
1Cor. 1: 9. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
10. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.
11. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.
12. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
13. Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
23. But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness;
24. But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
25. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
26. For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
27. 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;
1Cor.2: 1. And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
3. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
4. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the spirit and of power:
5. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
1Cor.3: 1. And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.
2. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.
3. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?
CONFLICT within the ranks of Christian believers, especially within the ranks of the leading elders, is not a spiritually desirable situation. It is embarrassingly shameful, and contrary to the Spirit and Word of God!
The disunity among Christians is reason enough for unbelievers to avoid those who would try to witness the love of God tho them.
What "standards" or exclusionary doctrines that we teach are valid to dismiss our brethren that Jesus died for? We may not all agree on all points, but does that make those who disagree with us lost? a few examples...
Prophecy:
Ministers of the same fellowships have a running gentlemen’s' feud over their prophetic understanding. Or not so gentlemanly, calling names, and trying to line up constituencies defending their own turf. It can seem as though we may be sometimes defending our own turf, our own kingdom, rather than the kingdom of God. This does not always result in officially breaking fellowship, but the unyielding competitiveness of ideas effectively displays a disunity, or broken fellowship, in fact, if not in confession. Dispensationalists and preterists must learn to love their brethren with whom they disagree.
Divorce:
Can any divorced believer remarry and be saved? Can their new spouse? Not if you listen to some ministers/fellowships. Is divorce and remarriage the unforgivable sin? Nobody says they believe that, until they preach on it! According to Questions Pentecostals Ask, vol.1, David Grey writes regarding that question that in agreement with the UPCI handbook, once the marriage is broken by sin, the new marriage is valid in the eyes of Jesus. It was sin that broke the first, but it is a sin that may be covered by the blood. The new marriage is recognized by God as the valid marriage now. UPCI ministers aren't all teaching this doctrine, causing some sinners to be without an altar to repent at. The UPCI is not alone in this tragedy.
Hair length:
There is much controversy over the teaching of 1 Cor.11:1-16, whether holiness teachers believe that or not. Many are of the understanding that Paul was addressing a specific problem facing that church at that time concerning the pagan worship of Dionysus/Bacchus where the pagan worshippers would cross-dress, men wearing long hair (and female attire/jewelry/make-up), women cutting their hair short (to appear mannish, wearing men's attire) in the worship of a pagan God. They believe Paul was teaching them not to be identified with those pagans. Each side is sincere, acting in faith on what they feel is honest and accurate. Should either side act as though the other set is "lost" or "backslidden
Women in pants?
“Holiness” churches teach that their women can’t wear pants, or shorts, or even sometimes culottes. Many have the understanding that females in ladies slacks, or in pants purchased in the ladies department are not apparel that pertains to a man. If a man would be seen in many of these ladies apparel, they would be accused of wearing ladies clothing, so how could it also be men's clothing? It isn’t that there is anything inherently wrong with holding a standard for congregations to stay within, but to teach that all who stray outside these particular standards are “going to hell” forges self righteousness among the congregants.
Television:
It is almost silly to go there, but we all probably know several or many who belong to "no TV" groups who have TVs, making their saints hypocrites. Movies also belong in this category. Radios are not permitted to our Old German Baptist brethren, and others…
It would seem that we can specialize in creating sin where no sin exists, until we preach condemnation where none should exist. I have heard it taught/preached that women can't wear open toed shoes. I've also been taught that men can't have beards or mustaches, play with playing cards that may be used to play poker, or any game utilizing dice! Some preach against going to amusement parks. Some congregations wear wedding bands, some make visiting preachers remove them before they can approach the pulpit.
It is enough to make one wonder if the church understands true holiness at all!
BRETHREN-THIS HAS TO STOP!
What are the scriptural grounds for resorting to the breaking fellowship with another believer? Prophetic understanding? Dress standards? Terminology? Differences of opinion? Divorce?
1Cor.5: 9. I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:
10. Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.
11. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
12. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
13. But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
1Cor.6:9. Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
10. Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Col. 2: 8. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
The context of this verse is discussing the godhead, but its usefulness for this current dilemma, can't be overstated. We must stop philosophizing holiness and perpetuating the traditions of men!
THE NECESSARY THINGS...
Acts 15: 28. For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
29. That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.
1Cor 6: 12. All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
1Cor 10:23. All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
Romans 13: 8. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
9. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
10. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
Romans 14: 1. Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations.
2. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.
3. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
4. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.
5. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind.
6. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.
7. For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.
8. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.
13. 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.
14. I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.
22. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.
23. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
The Revival we all want will not come to us until we stop failing to discern the body of Christ. We are held back by our self righteous, carnal pride. We must stop seeing those that understand things differently as our enemy, or worse, the enemy of Christ! Until we can drop our guard, lower our defenses and truly dialogue with one another, using only the word of God as our guide, we are doomed to be less than we are called to be.
Is Jesus Really "Lord?"
Biblical Christianity
Who sits on the throne of your heart-Jesus or you? Whoever sits on that throne is lord of your life.
Jesus calls His Disciples:
Simon, Andrew, James and John-
Matt. 4: 18. And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
19. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
20. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.
21. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.
22. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.
Mark 1: 16. Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
17. And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.
18. And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.
19. And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.
20. And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.
Luke 5: 1. And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,
2. And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.
3. And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.
4. Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
5. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.
6. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.
7. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.
8. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
9. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:
10. And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.
11. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.
Jesus didn't ask to join them, but that they join HIM
Levi-
Matt.9: 9. And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, And followed him.
Mark 2: 14. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him.
Luke 5: 27. And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
28. And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
Same thing with Levi!
The Ordaining of the Twelve-
Mark 3: 13. And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.
14. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,
15. And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:
16. And Simon he surnamed Peter;
17. And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder:
18. And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,
19. And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him: and they went into an house.
See a pattern here? Jesus sets the agenda, not the disciples.
Today's concept of salvation:
People teach today , just accept Jesus as your personal savior. People think that they should invite Jesus to walk along side of them all the days of their life. They think Jesus is wanting to tag along with them, to be there for them, to be a blessing to them and answer their prayers. They teach that Jesus is as merciful as a puppy, and that if you push Him away He will instantly forgive, and lick your face like a puppy. Jesus is not like that at all.
The issue is not will you accept Jesus, but will Jesus accept you? Is your sacrifice acceptable?
When Jesus called His disciples, He didn't wait to be invited along, and He didn't invite them...He commanded them to follow after Him. He didn't command them to allow Him to follow them. They stopped what THEY were doing and began to do what HE was doing. HE called the shots.
Luke 9: 57. And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
58. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. (count the cost, words are cheap- faith without works is dead.)
59. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. (...it can't be ME FIRST when we deal with Jesus...)
60. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.
61. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. (...but let ME FIRST...)
62. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
We don't have forever to learn REPENTANCE/death to self will.
Luke 13: 6. He spake also this parable; a certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
7. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?
8. And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:
9. And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
Luke 19: 27. But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.
Jesus says that those who would not have Him to reign OVER them are His enemies!
Matt.7: 13. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
14. Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23. And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Matt.10: 24. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.
25. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?
32. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
33. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
34. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.
35. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
36. And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.
37. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
38. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
39. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
Those that teach to "accept Jesus" without teaching we must deny our own life to claim His do not help the hearer. Teaching anything less than total surrender to the will of God is to teach a lie.
What is His will for us?
Acts 1: 8. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
2:42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Your first priority should be to become the best witness you can for your LORD. Learn the Word of God. Apply yourself to seeking His ways, His desire for you. Teach others about Jesus. YOU have been ordained to serve Christ. You are no longer your own, you have been bought with a price (1 Cor.6:20). You do not serve the church, or a pastor or teacher, but Jesus. The ministry is a gift to you from Jesus to help you learn how to better serve HIM. By submitting to the ministry you are submitting to Jesus, as long as the ministry is pointing you to Him in truth.
Some want their offerings and tithes to buy their place in the body, but the Bible teaches us that we are all baptized into one body by the same Spirit. We become joint heirs with Christ by obeying the gospel...by following the New Testament plan of salvation, Acts 2:38. The first step to the gospel is nothing less than total surrender of our will to the Lordship of Jesus. Only then are we truly repented, covered by the blood and acceptable to be baptized in water in the name of Jesus. If we find ourselves to become alive to our own will again, we must again crucify our own flesh, take up His cross, and follow Him. Paul said he had to die daily! So must we.
Jesus ordained the twelve that they should be with HIM, not that He should be with them.
We can't set our own agenda and be submitted to Him, asking Him to join us in OUR plan, we must let Him set our agenda and ask Him to let us take part in HIS work.
Interesting side note:
Mark 3: 13. And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.
14. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,
15. And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:
POWER comes from relinquishing our power completely. Matt.10:39 teaches us that if we seek to retain authority over our own lives, we lose life. Relinquishing authority over our selves brings life.
Luke 19:27 shows us that refusing His total authority over us actually makes us his enemy.
Who is lord of your heart? Do you deny Jesus access and authority to ALL YOR LIFE? Is there anything you are holding back in reserve? Is there a portion of you that you still want to control? That is what the LORD demands from you. Just as Abraham was commanded to sacrifice his son, the most precious thing in his life, Jesus wants to know that you are willing to sacrifice the most precious things in your life to Him.
Romans 12
1. I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
Who sits on the throne of your heart-Jesus or you? Whoever sits on that throne is lord of your life.
Jesus calls His Disciples:
Simon, Andrew, James and John-
Matt. 4: 18. And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
19. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.
20. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.
21. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them.
22. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.
Mark 1: 16. Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
17. And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.
18. And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.
19. And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.
20. And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.
Luke 5: 1. And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,
2. And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.
3. And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.
4. Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
5. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.
6. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.
7. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.
8. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
9. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:
10. And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.
11. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.
Jesus didn't ask to join them, but that they join HIM
Levi-
Matt.9: 9. And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, And followed him.
Mark 2: 14. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him.
Luke 5: 27. And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
28. And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
Same thing with Levi!
The Ordaining of the Twelve-
Mark 3: 13. And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.
14. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,
15. And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:
16. And Simon he surnamed Peter;
17. And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder:
18. And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,
19. And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him: and they went into an house.
See a pattern here? Jesus sets the agenda, not the disciples.
Today's concept of salvation:
People teach today , just accept Jesus as your personal savior. People think that they should invite Jesus to walk along side of them all the days of their life. They think Jesus is wanting to tag along with them, to be there for them, to be a blessing to them and answer their prayers. They teach that Jesus is as merciful as a puppy, and that if you push Him away He will instantly forgive, and lick your face like a puppy. Jesus is not like that at all.
The issue is not will you accept Jesus, but will Jesus accept you? Is your sacrifice acceptable?
When Jesus called His disciples, He didn't wait to be invited along, and He didn't invite them...He commanded them to follow after Him. He didn't command them to allow Him to follow them. They stopped what THEY were doing and began to do what HE was doing. HE called the shots.
Luke 9: 57. And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
58. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. (count the cost, words are cheap- faith without works is dead.)
59. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. (...it can't be ME FIRST when we deal with Jesus...)
60. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.
61. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. (...but let ME FIRST...)
62. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
We don't have forever to learn REPENTANCE/death to self will.
Luke 13: 6. He spake also this parable; a certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
7. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?
8. And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:
9. And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
Luke 19: 27. But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.
Jesus says that those who would not have Him to reign OVER them are His enemies!
Matt.7: 13. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
14. Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23. And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Matt.10: 24. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord.
25. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?
32. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
33. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
34. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.
35. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
36. And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.
37. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
38. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.
39. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.
Those that teach to "accept Jesus" without teaching we must deny our own life to claim His do not help the hearer. Teaching anything less than total surrender to the will of God is to teach a lie.
What is His will for us?
Acts 1: 8. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
2:42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Your first priority should be to become the best witness you can for your LORD. Learn the Word of God. Apply yourself to seeking His ways, His desire for you. Teach others about Jesus. YOU have been ordained to serve Christ. You are no longer your own, you have been bought with a price (1 Cor.6:20). You do not serve the church, or a pastor or teacher, but Jesus. The ministry is a gift to you from Jesus to help you learn how to better serve HIM. By submitting to the ministry you are submitting to Jesus, as long as the ministry is pointing you to Him in truth.
Some want their offerings and tithes to buy their place in the body, but the Bible teaches us that we are all baptized into one body by the same Spirit. We become joint heirs with Christ by obeying the gospel...by following the New Testament plan of salvation, Acts 2:38. The first step to the gospel is nothing less than total surrender of our will to the Lordship of Jesus. Only then are we truly repented, covered by the blood and acceptable to be baptized in water in the name of Jesus. If we find ourselves to become alive to our own will again, we must again crucify our own flesh, take up His cross, and follow Him. Paul said he had to die daily! So must we.
Jesus ordained the twelve that they should be with HIM, not that He should be with them.
We can't set our own agenda and be submitted to Him, asking Him to join us in OUR plan, we must let Him set our agenda and ask Him to let us take part in HIS work.
Interesting side note:
Mark 3: 13. And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.
14. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,
15. And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:
POWER comes from relinquishing our power completely. Matt.10:39 teaches us that if we seek to retain authority over our own lives, we lose life. Relinquishing authority over our selves brings life.
Luke 19:27 shows us that refusing His total authority over us actually makes us his enemy.
Who is lord of your heart? Do you deny Jesus access and authority to ALL YOR LIFE? Is there anything you are holding back in reserve? Is there a portion of you that you still want to control? That is what the LORD demands from you. Just as Abraham was commanded to sacrifice his son, the most precious thing in his life, Jesus wants to know that you are willing to sacrifice the most precious things in your life to Him.
Romans 12
1. I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
Born Again?
Born Again…
The Whole Package.
Ye must be born again…
John 3:
1. There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
2. The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
3. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
4. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?
5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
7. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
The popular plan of salvation, commonly called “the Roman Road to Salvation,” all from the book of Romans, is as follows…
3: 23. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
5: 8. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
6: 23. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
10: 9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
13. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
But is that the teaching the original church followed as the New Testament plan of salvation?
Colossians 2:
8. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
The book of Romans was penned about 60 A.D. according to many authorities. That’s almost 30 years after the Day of Pentecost. Does the Bible give us the doctrine used to establish new church communities before 60 A.D.? Unequivocally, yes!
But first...
The Gospel-Death, Burial, & Resurrection of Jesus
1 Corinthians 15:1-4- defines what it is…
1. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
2. By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
3. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
2 Thessalonians 1:7-10 warn against not obeying…
7. And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
8. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
9. Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;
10. When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
What message did the apostles preach to establish the new church?
On the Day of Pentecost, Peter preached two messages, first the gospel of the death, burial and resurrection…
Acts 2: 22. Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:
23. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
24. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.
25. For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:
26. Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:
27. Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
28. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
29. Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
30. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;
31. He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.
32. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
33. Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the Promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.
Secondly Peter preached the obedience to the gospel when asked how the hearers should respond to the message…
37. 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?
38. 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.39. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
40. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Was that just for the Day of Pentecost, or is that same message repeated in the establishment of other churches?
Acts 8:
12. But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
13. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
14. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
15. Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
16. (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)17. Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
Note: they were believers, baptized in Jesus name, but had NOT received the baptism of the Holy Ghost Until the apostles laid hands on them
Acts 10:
39. 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:
40. Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
44. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
45. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
46. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
47. Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
48. And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts 19:
1. And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,
2. He said unto 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.
3. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.
4. 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.
5. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
6. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
It becomes apparent that the message used to establish the New Testament church was not the Roman Road as usually used, but rather was Acts 2:38- repentance, baptism in Jesus name, and receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost. It also becomes apparent that the way one was known to have received the baptism of the holy ghost was that they spoke in tongues. Re-read the above passages! Has the New Testament plan of salvation been changed? Or has mans understanding shifted through the years? Is it important to be accurate on these things? Many seem to think that it no longer matters.
1 Timothy 4:16. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2 Timothy 3:14. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15. And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17. That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Acts 2:41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
The rise of Roman Catholicism almost crushed the original Church, and brought about the dark ages. The reformation came about because monks and priests started to read the word of God, and believe it. Martin Luther nailed his 95 thesis's on the door of Wittenberg College, setting off a chain reaction that changed the world. Unfortunately, those who found the courage to leave the church of Rome took Roman doctrine with them, including sprinkling for baptism, infant baptism, the doctrine of the trinity (which didn't officially exist until after 325 AD), and other foolishness.
The original is still the ordained message of deliverance. We are to walk in the light as we have the light, lest the light that we have is turned into darkness. Acts 2:38 was the original message of New Testament salvation, and should still be our message to believers today. To ignore this for the supposed sake of unity is to deny the One who authored it. Do you want to trust your salvation to erroneous doctrines, holdovers from the Great Whore, Mystery Babylon, or the word of God that the original church followed. As for me and my house, we will follow the Lord!
The Whole Package.
Ye must be born again…
John 3:
1. There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
2. The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
3. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
4. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?
5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
7. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
The popular plan of salvation, commonly called “the Roman Road to Salvation,” all from the book of Romans, is as follows…
3: 23. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
5: 8. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
6: 23. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
10: 9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
13. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
But is that the teaching the original church followed as the New Testament plan of salvation?
Colossians 2:
8. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
The book of Romans was penned about 60 A.D. according to many authorities. That’s almost 30 years after the Day of Pentecost. Does the Bible give us the doctrine used to establish new church communities before 60 A.D.? Unequivocally, yes!
But first...
The Gospel-Death, Burial, & Resurrection of Jesus
1 Corinthians 15:1-4- defines what it is…
1. Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;
2. By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.
3. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:
2 Thessalonians 1:7-10 warn against not obeying…
7. And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
8. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
9. Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;
10. When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
What message did the apostles preach to establish the new church?
On the Day of Pentecost, Peter preached two messages, first the gospel of the death, burial and resurrection…
Acts 2: 22. Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:
23. Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
24. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.
25. For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:
26. Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:
27. Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
28. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
29. Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
30. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;
31. He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.
32. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
33. Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the Promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.
Secondly Peter preached the obedience to the gospel when asked how the hearers should respond to the message…
37. 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?
38. 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.39. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
40. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Was that just for the Day of Pentecost, or is that same message repeated in the establishment of other churches?
Acts 8:
12. But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.
13. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
14. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
15. Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
16. (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)17. Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.
Note: they were believers, baptized in Jesus name, but had NOT received the baptism of the Holy Ghost Until the apostles laid hands on them
Acts 10:
39. 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:
40. Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
41. 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.
42. 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.
43. To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
44. While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
45. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
46. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
47. Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
48. And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts 19:
1. And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,
2. He said unto 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.
3. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.
4. 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.
5. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
6. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
It becomes apparent that the message used to establish the New Testament church was not the Roman Road as usually used, but rather was Acts 2:38- repentance, baptism in Jesus name, and receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost. It also becomes apparent that the way one was known to have received the baptism of the holy ghost was that they spoke in tongues. Re-read the above passages! Has the New Testament plan of salvation been changed? Or has mans understanding shifted through the years? Is it important to be accurate on these things? Many seem to think that it no longer matters.
1 Timothy 4:16. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
2 Timothy 3:14. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 15. And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17. That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
Acts 2:41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 42. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
The rise of Roman Catholicism almost crushed the original Church, and brought about the dark ages. The reformation came about because monks and priests started to read the word of God, and believe it. Martin Luther nailed his 95 thesis's on the door of Wittenberg College, setting off a chain reaction that changed the world. Unfortunately, those who found the courage to leave the church of Rome took Roman doctrine with them, including sprinkling for baptism, infant baptism, the doctrine of the trinity (which didn't officially exist until after 325 AD), and other foolishness.
The original is still the ordained message of deliverance. We are to walk in the light as we have the light, lest the light that we have is turned into darkness. Acts 2:38 was the original message of New Testament salvation, and should still be our message to believers today. To ignore this for the supposed sake of unity is to deny the One who authored it. Do you want to trust your salvation to erroneous doctrines, holdovers from the Great Whore, Mystery Babylon, or the word of God that the original church followed. As for me and my house, we will follow the Lord!
Biblical Christianity
2000 years have passed since the beginning of the New Testament dispensation of grace. The doctrine establishing the Church of Jesus Christ is well recorded. The Bible is the best selling book ever. Many homes have more than 3 copies. Many have several more than 3 copies. Almost all denominations that I am aware of claim that they are following "Biblical Christianity."
Obviously, there are differences. Are these differences of consequence, or merely stylistically diverse? Does the Bible have anything to say about this topic? More to come.
Obviously, there are differences. Are these differences of consequence, or merely stylistically diverse? Does the Bible have anything to say about this topic? More to come.
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