God is a Spirit (John 4:24). We are humans. God speaks to us in our human terms so that we can understand Him.

In the Old Testament, before God made Himself a body to live and die in (Hebrews 2:14), He was invisible (1 Timothy 1:17). Yet speaking in terms that we could understand, He spoke of His arm (Deuteronomy 26:8), His eyes (Proverbs 15:3), His ears (2 Samuel 22:7), and so on.

We as humans understand that an arm speaks of strength and power (God is omnipotent), eyes speak of seeing (God is omnipresent – everywhere), and ears speak of hearing (God is omniscient –knowing all things). Each human feature used, communicates to us a feature of God’s Spirit.

In our humanity, we understand that while a man has numerous titles and features, a man is still one man. A man that has children is a father. A man is also a son. A man has the spirit of man. A man expresses himself by his word. A man has a name. With many titles and features, he is still only one man.

God through His creation is our Heavenly Father (Malachi 2:10). When God created a body of flesh to dwell in, He became the Son (Colossians 1:13-15). God is a Spirit (John 4:24) and He is holy (Psalm 99:9), so He is the Holy Spirit (1Thessalonians 4:8). God expresses Himself by His Word (Matthew 4:4). God's name is Jesus - His name above every name (Matthew 1:21, Ephesians 1:21-23). With many titles and features, God is still only one God (Ephesians 4:6).

There are preachers that claim to be preaching the gospel, but what they are preaching is not according to what the Bible says the gospel is.

This is what the Bible says about those that say they are preaching the gospel, but are telling people to be saved another way:

"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ." - Galatians 1:6-7

"But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed." - Galatians 1:8-9

Peter preached the gospel on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2). The gospel is how that Jesus died for our sins according to the scriptures, that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Peter then preached what we must do to obey the gospel (Acts 2:38).

"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." - Acts 2:38

The gospel is the same today as it was back then. There is only one way to be saved - Acts 2:38!

"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." - Acts 2:38

What is “the world” and what does the Bible say about it?

One of the meanings of the “world” is “the whole circle of earthly goods, endowments riches, advantages, pleasures, etc, which although hollow and frail and fleeting, stir desire, seduce from God and are obstacles to the cause of Christ.” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon)

The Bible says,

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world." - 1 John 2:15-16 KJV

Another translation,

“Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.” - 1 John 2:15-16 NLT

Jesus was in the world, and overcame the world.

"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." - John 16:33

He made a way by His death, burial, and resurrection for us also to overcome the world. We take up our cross and follow Jesus by crucifying our sinful nature by repentance, burying our old nature by water baptism in Jesus name, and rising with the infilling of His Spirit with power to overcome the temptations of this world.

"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." - Galatians 6:14

We have a new life in Jesus, no longer ruled by the devil and the things of this world.

"Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:" - Ephesians 2:2

By Jesus’ name, His blood, and His Spirit, we have God’s power to overcome this world.

"Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." - 1 John 4:4

Is Halloween a device of Satan? What is Halloween? A time of fun and excitement for children?

It is a day when schools, preschools, and daycares take a day to devote their activities to tales of witches and warlocks, of drawing pictures of black cats, full moons, ghosts and goblins. It is a day if carving out jack-o-lanterns, of candy and more candy. After school, when darkness arrives, it is a time of costumes and going door to door to neighbors and friends, children shouting, "Trick or treat" for candy and apples, trips through haunted houses, and parties.

The stores are already filling up with sections devoted to Halloween costumes and masks, scary makeup, fake blood and eyeballs, plastic jack-o-lanterns, ghost figures, witches on brooms, and more.

Is this a “holiday” where Satan appears as an angel of light?

Halloween has a history filled with evil, wickedness, and violence. The Spirit reveals underneath the sugar coated celebrations, there are deadly satanic activities going on by the principalities, the powers, and the rulers of the darkness of this world.

Years ago Druids, coming to the door of castles threatened homes and families with satanic curses (“trick") unless the father and mother would surrender their virgin daughter as a blood sacrifice to Satan on the upcoming rituals on the night of Halloween. If they surrendered their daughter, a hollowed out squash would be lit by their door, candle light sending out beacons through its openings signaling that this home was not to be cursed: they had surrendered their child at the Druid’s threat.

Several years ago the underground evil seeped up into the candy gathering ritual to the point where hospitals were offering x-rays of apples and candy to determine hidden razor blades. The possibility of poison in Halloween treats lead to supervised neighborhood trunk and treat events.

Is there other evil going on the night of this satanic holiday today?

There are numerous accounts from those that have previously been involved with Satanism of the animal and child sacrifices on this night. The horror of this goes beyond one’s imagination. It is truly a night of darkness and evil spiritual activity going on in remote areas, concealed beyond the “innocent” revelings of the night.

Halloween is a time to be discerning, to not step over the line into the realm of being caught by Satan’s devices. It is a time to intercede in prayer for those caught up in satanic activities that the light of Jesus’ truth come to them and deliver them from darkness into his Mercy by the Gospel of Jesus (Acts 2:38). It is a time to intercede in prayer for those that are victims or potential victims of the sexual abuse and violence that is a part of satanic rituals.

Deuteronomy 18:9-14 KJV - 9 When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. 10 There shall not be found among you [any one] that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, [or] that useth divination, [or] an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, 11 Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. 12 For all that do these things [are] an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. 13 Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God. 14 For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee, the LORD thy God hath not suffered thee so [to do].

{10-11, 14 NLT: For example, never sacrifice your son or daughter as a burnt offering. And do not let your people practice fortune-telling, or use sorcery, or interpret omens, or engage in witchcraft, or cast spells, or function as mediums or psychics, or call forth the spirits of the dead… The nations you are about to displace consult sorcerers and fortune-tellers, but the LORD your God forbids you to do such things.”} (Also, Galatians 5:19-21, Revelation 9:21, 21:8)

Ephesians 6:10-12, 18a KJV - 10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places]…18a Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 KJV - 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ…

2 Corinthians 2:11 KJV Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

Satan is known as the Prosecutor. We understand this, as he accuses the brethren.

Revelation 12:10 And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night.

When Jesus died for our sins, Satan lost his power. Jesus took from him the keys of hell and death.

Revelation 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.

Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

Colossians 2:15 And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

Satan opposes the gospel which brings the mercy of God by the blood of Jesus.

2 Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:

We receive life through the gospel when we follow what Peter preached on the day of Pentecost.

Acts 2:38 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.

Jesus appeared to Paul and made him a minister and witness and sent him to the Jews and Gentiles,

Acts 26:18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

By the gospel, we have been brought out of the darkness of judgment into the light of God’s mercy.

Ephesians 5:6-8 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

1 Peter 2:8-10 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

We no longer are subject to Satan’s accusations. When we were baptized in Jesus name, all our sins were washed away. The Prosecutor has nothing against us anymore!

Jesus promises that when we are baptized in his name he will give us his Spirit, the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is not only power to resist sin, the Holy Ghost also acts as our Defense Attorney. Defense Attorney (“counsel for defense”) is a meaning of the Greek word translated to “Comforter”!

John 14:16-18 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.

John 16:7-11 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove {convict} the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Of sin, because they believe not on me; Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

Jesus, as our defense attorney, "pleads the blood" reminding Satan he has nothing to accuse us with!

"This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh." - Galatians 5:16

How do we walk in the Spirit?

The first step is repentance – we are sorry for our sins and purpose in our heart and mind to turn our back on sin and a sinful lifestyle.

"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you…" - 2 Corinthians 6:17

When we were in the world, we fulfilled the lusts of our flesh and had for our destiny the wrath of God.

"Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others." - Ephesians 2:2-3

When we repented and came out of the world, we had our sins washed away by water baptism in Jesus name. It is necessary to be baptized in JESUS name, as the Bible says, so that the blood JESUS shed can remit our sins.

"For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins." - Matthew 26:28

"And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." - Luke 24:47  

Just as Jesus said, Peter preached repentance and remission of sins in the name of Jesus among all nations in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost.

"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. 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." - Acts 2:38-39

After repentance, we can receive the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is Jesus’ Spirit that gives us eternal life and the power to overcome the lusts of our flesh.

"For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." - Galatians 6:8 KJV

"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." - Acts 1:8 KJV

When we receive God’s gift of His Holy Ghost, we can walk in His Spirit.

When God said, “Let us make man in our image” who was God speaking to?

God was speaking to the angels.

"And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth." - Genesis 1:26

"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." - Genesis 1:27

Where does it say in the Bible that God and the angels make appearances in the form of man?

The Bible tells us that the LORD appeared to Abraham along with two angels. They appeared to Abraham as three men.

"And the LORD appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day; And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground," - Genesis 18:1-2

You can read why they appeared to Abraham and the conversation they had in the rest of chapter 18. After a certain point, the two angels left to go to Sodom.

"And the men rose up from thence, and looked toward Sodom: and Abraham went with them to bring them on the way." - Genesis 18:16

The third man remained to finish talking with Abraham. Who was this third man?

"And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the LORD." - Genesis 18:22

The Bible is telling us in this verse, that Abraham stood yet before the LORD. The LORD appeared in the form of man to Abraham.

Where in the Bible does it say that the other two men that left Abraham and went to Sodom were angels?

It tells us this in the first verse of the next chapter:

"And there came two angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing them rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground;" - Genesis 19:1

Because angels appear to us in the image of man, we can understand this verse:

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." - Hebrews 13:2

Abraham showed hospitality to angels without being aware of it. Lot also entertained angels unaware. Man was made in the image of God and of angels. Abraham and Lot entertained angels unawares because the angels appeared to them as men. After Abraham entertained the two angels, Lot entertained them when they came to Sodom.

"And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant's house, and tarry all night, and wash your feet, and ye shall rise up early, and go on your ways. And they said, Nay; but we will abide in the street all night. And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat." - Genesis 19:2-3

We too may have entertained angels unawares.

Satan does not want a person to be saved. If a person has made it into the kingdom of God by being born again of water and of Spirit (Acts 2:38), Satan does not want that person to grow up in Christ and to become fruitful and used by the Lord in ministry.

One way to keep a believer from growing in the Lord, is to keep them from the knowledge of sin in their life.

Sin is revealed by the Holy Ghost working in a person’s life and directing them in paths of righteousness and holiness. Sin is also revealed by the preaching of the word.

John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

1 Corinthians 1:21 KJV - 21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

Both of these ways make it clear to a person what things in their life are sin, allowing them to repent, turn away from these things, and to remove sin from their life.

If a person refuses to recognize something in their life as sin that the Lord has revealed to them as sin, that person cannot repent of that sin. It remains in their life. That person’s growth in the Lord is stifled. Their use in the kingdom is limited. They risk shutting the door for entrance into ministry.

According to the Bible, it is Satan that takes away the word sown in a person’s heart.

Mark 4:15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.

Luke 8:12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.

Here are a few methods to accomplish this: the spirit of rebellion, disobedience, lack of submission, pride, arrogance, a haughty spirit…

Ezekiel, a minister and prophet of God, was called to be a watchman to Israel.

Ezekiel 3:17 Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.

God refers to his pastors (“elders”) as shepherds.

1 Peter 5:1-5 ¶The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

God calls the ministry his gifts to men. These gifts are for the perfecting of the saints (believers). They are for the purpose to help believers to grow up spiritually. They are to equip believers so they will be able to stand against the wiles of the devil and not be deceived by false doctrines. They are to teach believers to operate in love as one body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.

Ephesians 4:11-16 KJV - 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even] Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

Peace. Peace with God. Peace represents reconciliation with God. Our Father reconciled us when no one else could, robing himself in flesh as the son of God. He is the Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Colossians 1:20-22 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, [I say], whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven.

And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in [your] mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

And because of his great love for us, we also love and are ambassadors to bring others to be reconciled to God by his gospel, Acts 2:38.

2Corinthians 5:18-21 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Act 2:38-39 …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. 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.

The altar is a place of death and sacrifice. We are called to become “dead to sin” by being sorrowful for our sins and turning away from them by repenting.

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?" - Romans 6:1-2 KJV

"Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin (dead to the power of sin), but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord." - Romans 6:11 KJV

"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." - Galatians 5:24 KJV ("Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there." - Galatians 5:24 NLT)

Jesus died for our sins. We take up our cross and follow His death, burial, and resurrection by repenting of our sins, being baptized in Jesus name, and by receiving His Spirit, the Holy Ghost.

"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." - Acts 2:38 KJV

*photo from Exploring God’s Word Bible study

 

Who is going to heaven?

The Bible says,

"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, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 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." - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 KJV

Another translation clarifies some of these words: “Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NLT

The next words are the key words: “And such were some of you”. Notice it says, WERE some of you. We have a hope! We must wake up and realize we are putting our soul at great risk to continue following after the lusts of our flesh and indulging in sin. It is time to make a change.

If we want to go to heaven, we must turn from our sins by repentance, have our sins washed away by water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus, and receive the power we need from God to overcome sin, the baptism of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38) Everyone was in sin before coming to Jesus and obeying His gospel. (Romans 3:23) Because of His great mercy, we can find forgiveness and a new life.

With a new life in Jesus, we find true joy, peace, and love. He is our Savior and our God that loves us more than we could ever love ourselves. By His cleansing blood and the power of His Spirit, we have the hope of going to heaven.

The church began on the Day of Pentecost. In obedience to Jesus, one hundred and twenty of His followers were gathered in the upper room awaiting the promise of the Holy Ghost. When the Day of Pentecost was fully come, Jesus poured out His Spirit and they all began to speak in other tongues as His Spirit gave them the utterance. (Acts 2:4)

Filled with the Holy Ghost and with the keys of the kingdom of heaven given to him by Jesus, Peter preached the first gospel message. At the conclusion, he declared what we must do to be saved – “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost”. (Acts 2:38)

From that point on, the church continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers, and the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. (Acts 2:42, 47)

*This chart is from the Bible Study, "Exploring God's Word."

What does the Bible say the gospel is?

It says the gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

"For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:" - 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

Does the Bible say the gospel saves us?

Yes, UNLESS we have believed in vain. We must OBEY it after we believe it!

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain." - 1 Corinthians 15:1-2

The word “vain” means “without success or effect” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon).

If we believe but do not OBEY the gospel, the gospel will not be a success in our life, because we did not allow it to have an EFFECT on our life.

How do we obey the gospel - Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection?

We obey Jesus’ death by becoming “dead to sin” by repentance, His burial by being “buried with Him” by water baptism in Jesus name, and His resurrection by being “raised up” by His glory by the baptism of His Holy Ghost.

The Bible explains this:

"God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?" - Romans 6:2-3

"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:" - Romans 6:4-5 (See also: Romans 6:1-13)

What does the Bible say about those that do NOT obey the gospel?

"And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:" - 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8

"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?" - Romans 10:14-16

"For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?" - 1 Peter 4:17

How do we obey the gospel so that we are saved? 

"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. 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." - Acts 2:38-39 KJV

Paul continues after explaining the gospel in Romans 6:1-13:

"But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness." - Romans 6:17-18

When we obey the gospel, we are no longer servants of sin but have become servants of righteousness.

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Part 10 Divers kinds of tongues

“Divers kinds of tongues” is one of the nine spiritual gifts given to believers to minister to the church body.

What does the Bible say about “spiritual gifts”?

"Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. ... Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. ... For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:" - 1 Corinthians 12:1, 4, 8-10 KJV

There are nine “spiritual gifts” in this list. These gifts are given to MINISTER to the church and to help the church body grow spiritually. In order for a person to be used to minister in any of these spiritual gifts, a person must have received the Holy Ghost first, speaking in tongues as the Spirit gave them the utterance.

The spiritual gift of “divers kinds of tongues” mentioned in this list is what some people call the gift of tongues. This gift, like the rest of the spiritual gifts, is used to MINISTER to the church by giving the WHOLE CHURCH BODY a message – like a trumpet. It must be ministered along with the “gift of interpretation of tongues” so the church body can understand the message in their own language, receiving comfort, exhortation, and encouragement.

A person does not need to be used in any of these spiritual gifts to be saved. A person DOES need to receive the Holy Ghost to be saved, and they WILL speak in tongues when they receive the Holy Ghost.

"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." - Acts 2:38 KJV

"And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:4 KJV

Part 9 Peter’s Testimony of How the Gentiles Received the Holy Ghost

The apostles and Jewish believers in Jerusalem were criticizing Peter for breaking the Jewish law by going into the home of a Gentile. Peter gave them his testimony of how God poured out the gift of His Holy Ghost on the Gentiles, just as God poured out His Spirit on them.

He told them of his heavenly vision with a voice speaking to him, three men from Cornelius a Gentile arriving from Caesarea, the Spirit directing Peter to go with them, and his taking six Jewish brethren with him to the house of Cornelius.

"And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved." - Acts 11:13-14

It was Peter’s testimony of the sign of speaking in tongues that made it clear to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem that God had accepted the Gentiles for salvation.

Peter told them,

"And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." - Acts 11:15

How did the Holy Ghost fall on Peter and the rest of the apostles and brethren on the Day of Pentecost?

They spoke with tongues.

("And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:4)

Peter told the Jewish believers in Jerusalem,

"Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?" - Acts 11:17

Based on Peter’s testimony, the Jewish believers in Jerusalem accepted the Gentile believers.

"When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life." - Acts 11:18

It was that Cornelius and his household spoke in tongues that finalized Peter’s testimony to the Jewish believers at Jerusalem. The Gentiles received the Holy Ghost just like they did, speaking with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

[To read the full account of when the Gentiles first received the Holy Ghost and were baptized in Jesus name, see Acts chapter 10.]

Tongues Part 8 How do I receive the gift of the Holy Ghost?

"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. 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." - Acts 2:38-39

“Repent” here means, “To change one's mind, i.e. to repent”, and “to change one's mind for better, heartily to amend with abhorrence of one's past sins” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon)

A person can receive the Holy Ghost before or after water baptism. Repentance, however, must come first.

We come to Jesus by faith.

"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." - Hebrews 11:6

By repentance, we turn our heart, our mind, and our life to Jesus and away from sin.

Jesus gave His life for us, because He loves us. He loves us so much, that a suffered and died for us, so our sins could be forgiven. On the third day Jesus rose from the dead.

Now we can receive God’s Spirit in us.

A good place for a person to receive the Holy Ghost is at church, when there is an “altar call”. This is a call to those that love Jesus, that want to give their life to Him, and want to receive the gift of His Spirit.

At church, our minds are focused on God. We are in an atmosphere where other people also have their minds on God.

In this setting of prayer, worship, and the message of the word of God, it is easier to feel the presence of Jesus.

When we go to the altar, we often find others who will pray with us, worshiping with us, and encouraging us as we draw closer into God’s presence.

We receive God’s Spirit when we focus our whole attention on Jesus and His love for us. By our worship and thanksgiving, we draw closer to Him and He draws closer to us. (James 4:8)

It seems when we raise our hands in praise and worship, we are reaching out to Him, praising Him.

When we worship and talk to Him, we communicate our heart and love.

With our mind, our heart, our hands, and our voice focused on Jesus and how much we love Him, the presence of the Lord comes upon us. We feel His love and peace.

Sometimes there is a feeling of humility in the awesome presence of His holiness. Sometimes we have tears of thanksgiving. When we humble our self before the Lord, He lifts us up.

To allow Jesus to fill us with his Spirit, we must allow Him to change our words, our tongue.

This requires trust in the Lord. This requires wanting His Spirit more than our pride of speaking in a tongue we do not know. It requires letting go to God and not trying to take control our self.

When we surrender to God, He fills us with His Spirit.

Jesus can fill us with His Spirit wherever we are that we allow Him to fill us with His Spirit.

We can receive His Spirit in a house, in a car, on a mountain top, in a valley.

Receiving the Holy Ghost takes us to a dimension of peace and joy that we will not want to leave.

It is a place we can return to.

When Jesus fills us with His Spirit, the Holy Ghost, He not only gives us peace and joy, but also the power to live our lives pleasing to Him.

By His Spirit, we can live our life with victory over sin.

Part 7 There is a difference between the gift of the Holy Ghost and the gift of tongues. The gift of the Holy Ghost is a promise to us when we repent of our sins and are baptized in Jesus name for the remission of our sins.  

"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. 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." - Acts 2:38-39  

The gift of the Holy Ghost (the Spirit) is necessary for salvation. 

"But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his." - Romans 8:9  

When people receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, they speak with other tongues. 

They spoke in other tongues when they received the gift of the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost.

 "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:4 

They spoke in other tongues at the house of Cornelius when they received the gift of Holy Ghost. 

"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. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God." - Acts 10:45-46a 

John the Baptist’s disciples spoke with other tongues when they received the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

"And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." - Acts 19:6  

The gift of tongues is different from the gift of the Holy Ghost. It is one of the gifts of the Spirit given to believers for the edifying of the church. 

“Edifying” means, “(the act of) building, building up, a metaphorically, edifying, edification, i.e. the act of one who promotes another's growth in Christian wisdom, piety, holiness, happiness” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon)  

“It expresses the strengthening effect of teaching… (the idea conveyed is progress resulting from patient effort)”. (Vine’s Expository Dictionary) 

It is not necessary to have the gift of tongues for salvation, or any of the other gifts of the Spirit, which are all used for edifying the church, the body of Christ.  

In the following verse, Paul is speaking to the Corinthian church about two of the gifts of the Spirit. He is talking to them about the gift of tongues, and the gift of prophecy.  

"I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying." - 1 Corinthians 14:5  

“Prophesieth” means, “to break forth under sudden impulse in lofty discourse or praise of the divine counsels, or (for the above verse), under like prompting, to teach, refute, reprove, admonish, comfort others (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon) 

"To be a prophet, to prophesy," is used (a) with the primary meaning of telling forth the Divine counsels (Vine’s Expository Dictionary) 

It is necessary for the gift of tongues to be used with the gift of the interpretation of tongues, in order for the church to be edified. If there is no interpretation of the message in tongues, then no one understands what has been said, and the church is not edified, which is the purpose of the various gifts of the Spirit. 

"If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret." - 1 Corinthians 14:27

Part 6 The Holy Ghost in Samaria

"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." - Acts 1:8  

"... And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles." - Acts 8:1  

What Jesus said of Samaria was about to be fulfilled! 

"Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them." - Acts 8:5  

"And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city." - Acts 8:6-8  

"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." - Acts 8:12  

They were baptized in Jesus name – yet they had not received the gift of the Holy Ghost. 

"Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (for as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)" - Acts 8:14-16  

Receiving the Holy Ghost is so important, that the apostles sent Peter and John on a special trip from Jerusalem to Samaria to pray for the people to receive the Holy Ghost! 

"Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost." - Acts 8:17  

"And they, when they had testified and preached the word of the Lord, returned to Jerusalem, and preached the gospel in many villages of the Samaritans." - Acts 8:25

Part 5 Where else in the Bible did people speak in other tongues when they received the Holy Ghost? 

In the book of Acts chapter 19, Apostle Paul came upon disciples of John the Baptist. These disciples had been baptized unto repentance, for this is what John the Baptist preached. They had not been baptized in Jesus name. Neither had they received the gift of the Holy Ghost. Paul discovered this in his conversation with them. 

"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, 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." - Acts 19:1-2 

Paul then checked out their baptism. 

"And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism." - Acts 19:3  

Paul found out two things from their reply. First, these disciples knew about the Holy Ghost. They just weren’t aware that the Holy Ghost had begun to be poured out.  

How did these disciples of John know about the Holy Ghost? Because John the Baptist preached about it: 

"I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:" - Matthew 3:11  

The second thing Paul found out from their reply is that their baptism was simply one of repentance, for John the Baptist baptized with water “unto repentance.” 

What was Paul’s answer to them? 

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

What was there response? 

"When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus." - Acts 19:5 

Here is an example of people being re-baptized. Even though they had already been baptized once, because they had not been baptized in Jesus name, they got re-baptized.  

These men had now been born of water, partially obeying the Gospel. They now needed to be born of the Spirit to fully obey the Gospel. 

"And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." - Acts 19:6

Here is yet another example of people speaking in other tongues when they received the gift of the Holy Ghost.  

They were now in obedience to the gospel. These men had now entered into the New Covenant.

Part 4 Tongues and Cornelius the Gentile 

There was a devout man, pious and godly, that was a gentile. He was a God-fearing man, as was everyone in his household. He gave generous donations to the needs of the Jewish people. He faithfully prayed to God. (Acts 10:2) 

Anyone that knew Cornelius must have thought he had a special place in heaven. 

One day, while Cornelius was fasting and praying to God, he had a heavenly vision. Although by appearance Cornelius was saved, he had not been baptized in Jesus name for the remission of his sins, nor had he received the Holy Ghost. 

Because Jesus loves us all so much, He went to great lengths to bring a man of God, a preacher of the gospel, with the message of salvation to Cornelius. (Acts 10:3-23) 

When Peter arrived at the house of Cornelius, all his family and close friends had come together. Cornelius told Peter, “Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.”  

While Peter preached the gospel, the Holy Ghost fell on all those which heard the word. (Acts 10:44) 

How did Peter know that they received the Holy Ghost? 

Because he heard them speak with tongues and praise the Lord. 

Here is another example of where people that received the Holy Ghost spoke in tongues as the sign that God had filled them with His Spirit. Peter testified to those in Jerusalem, telling them Cornelius and his household received the Holy Ghost just as they received the Holy Ghost on the Day of Pentecost. 

"And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." - Acts 11:15 

When Cornelius and his household received the Holy Ghost, Peter COMMANDED that they be baptized in Jesus name. They received the gift, but had not entered into the covenant of Jesus’ baptism!  

"Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?" - Acts 10:47  

"And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days." - Acts 10:48

Part 3 Where in the Bible did people speak in other tongues when they received the Holy Ghost? 

The first place that people spoke in other tongues as a sign that they had been filled with the Holy Ghost was in the upper room in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost.  

"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. ... And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:1, 4 

Henceforth, tongues would be the sign of the infilling of the Holy Ghost. 

"And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." - Acts 11:15 (Acts 10:44-46) 

There are some people that teach that the reason why the disciples in the upper room spoke in tongues, they say was so the hundred and twenty disciples could preach to all the different languages that were present. This is not true. 

On the Day of Pentecost, Jews were gathered from nations from all over the world to Jerusalem to worship at the Temple for this special holy day. (Deuteronomy 16:16) These Jews most likely spoke Hebrew, their religious language, as well as probably speaking either Latin or Greek, the languages of the Roman Empire. In addition, these Jews also spoke the language of the country they were from. (Acts 2:5-6) 

"And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. ... And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?" - Acts 2:5-6, 12 

Apostle Peter, standing up with the other eleven apostles, was the preacher on the Day of Pentecost. He began his Gospel message to the multitudes that had gathered by explaining that what they had just witnessed had been prophesied by the prophet Joel. (Joel 2:28) 

Speaking in tongues on the day of Pentecost was not for the purpose of preaching. The speaking in tongues was a sign that the Spirit had been poured out on believers.  

"But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;" - Acts 2:14-16  

"And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:" - Acts 2:17  

Peter concluded his message by letting all the Jews know that they could receive the Holy Ghost, just as the hundred and twenty disciples did that were in the upper room. 

"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. 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." - Acts 2:38-39  

Henceforth, tongues would be the sign of the infilling of the Holy Ghost. 

"And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning." - Acts 11:15 (Acts 10:44-46) 

To be continued…

Part 2

Why did God choose “tongues” as the sign that a person has been filled with His Spirit?  

The Bible says that although the tongue is a very small member, like a bit in a horse’s mouth or the tiny rudder on a great ship, the tongue can control our whole body. 

"For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth." - James 3:2-4  

"Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell." - James 3:5-6  

The Bible says that no man can tame the tongue – that it is “an unruly evil” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon: “that can not be restrained”) defiling the whole body. 

"For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: but the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." - James 3:7-8  

It makes sense that God would choose the seeming impossible, taking control and taming our tongue, to show that with Him all things are possible. To allow God to take control of our tongue, changing our words into words we don’t know the meaning of, takes on our part, a big step of faith and trust. 

When we give God full control in our life, we can receive His Holy Ghost.  

"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. 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." - Acts 2:38-39  

When we speak in tongues, it is the sign that we have allowed God to fill us with His Spirit. 

"And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:4  

When we speak in tongues as the Spirit gives us the utterance, we are allowing God to tame our tongue that is an “unruly evil” and that no man can tame. Tongues are a sign that we are surrendering our whole self to Him, the tongue being the last to surrender. 

To be continued…