"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:" - 1 Peter 5:8 KJV

"Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." - 1 Peter 5:8 NIV

Love not the world

"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." - 1 John 2:15 KJV

What is the world, according to this verse?

"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 2:16 KJV

These three things were what the devil tempted the woman with in the Garden.

"And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat." - Genesis 3:6 KJV

The woman saw that the tree was good for food – lust of the flesh, and that it was pleasant to the eyes – lust of the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise – the pride of life.

It was Adam and Eve’s choice to sin that brought death and separation from God. (Romans 5:12, Genesis 3:23)

"Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God." - James 4:4 KJV

It is the devil that is “the god of this world.” He blinds the minds of those that believe not, knowing that through the gospel we can overcome the world.

"In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." - 2 Corinthians 4:4 KJV

What is the gospel that the devil has blinded the minds of unbelievers to?

It is the good news (the great news!!!) that God robed Himself in flesh to dwell among humanity and die for our sins, that He was buried, and on the third day rose again.

It is the good news (the great news!!!) that if a person will take up their cross and follow Jesus by crucifying their sinful, fleshly desires, if they are buried in water baptism in the name of Jesus for the remission (washing away) of their sins, and if they receive the promised gift of the Holy Ghost, which is the Spirit of Jesus in them, they will be saved. (Matthew 16:24, Galatians 6:14, 1Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-5, Acts 2:38)

The devil and the lusts of the flesh are temporary “pleasures.” Living for God overcoming the world has its rewards in this life and in eternal life. (Hebrews 11:24-26, John 10:10)

"And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." - 1 John 2:17 KJV

When we are born of God by obeying the gospel (Acts 2:38), we have the power of God within us to overcome the world and anything the devil throws at us.

"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." - 1 John 5:4 KJV

"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 KJV

Victory!

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." - Psalm 16:11

What do preachers preach when they preach the gospel of Jesus Christ? Part 5

We see that preachers in the Bible preached “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:” (1Corinthians 15:3-4)

We also see that next, they preached how to apply the gospel to our life by repentance, water baptism in Jesus name for the remission of sins, and by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

"But when they [Paul and his companions] departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down. And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on." - Acts 13:14-15 KJV

"Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience." - Acts 13:16 KJV

Paul proceeded to preach the gospel to the Jews in the synagogue.

"And when he had removed him [Saul], he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will. Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:" - Acts 13:22-23 KJV

"Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent." - Acts 13:26 KJV

Paul declared the gospel – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

"And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a sepulchre. But God raised him from the dead:" - Acts 13:29-30 KJV

Paul continued, speaking of obedience to the gospel which brings forgiveness of sins and justification. (Acts 2:38, 1Corinthians 6:11)

"Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: and by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." - Acts 13:38-39 KJV

Paul then gave the Jews a warning if they rejected the gospel he just preached to them.

"Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets; Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you." - Acts 13:40-41 KJV

The Gentiles then begged that Paul preach to them.

"And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words might be preached to them the next sabbath." - Acts 13:42 KJV

What was the result of Paul preaching the gospel to the Jews?

"Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and religious proselytes followed Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God." - Acts 13:43 KJV

What happened the following sabbath?

"And the next sabbath day came almost the whole city together to hear the word of God. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming." - Acts 13:44-45 KJV

What did Paul and Barnabas do?

"Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth." - Acts 13:46-47 KJV

What was the result?

"And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed." - Acts 13:48 KJV

Then what happened?

"And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region." - Acts 13:49 KJV

"But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts." - Acts 13:50 KJV

"But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium." - Acts 13:51 KJV

"And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost." - Acts 13:52 KJV

The Bible says, “God is love.”

We know that God loves us, for He gave His life for us when He died for our sins.

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8 KJV

Jesus made a way, when He paid the price of our sins with His own blood, for us to be filled with His love.

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood." - Acts 20:28 KJV

We find His love when we receive the gift of His Holy Ghost, His Spirit in us.

"And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." - Romans 5:5 KJV

The love we find when we are full of His Spirit is not the imitation love that we tried so hard to put on to be kind to others when we didn’t feel like it. The love of God is love on the INSIDE that flows out to everyone around us. It is not our fleshly attempt on the OUTSIDE to love others. The love of Jesus is REAL LOVE.

How can we be filled with this true love of Jesus WITHIN us?

We can keep His commandments by turning our back on the world and its sin, wash our sins away in baptism in Jesus name, and be filled with His Spirit, as Jesus said, we must be born of the water and of the Spirit so that we can enter into His kingdom. (1 John 2:5, 15, John 3:5, Acts 2:38)

"For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;" - Titus 3:3-5 KJV

Another translation,

"he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit." - Titus 3:5 NLT

On the Day of Pentecost, all of Jesus’ disciples were praying in the upper room, following His commandment to go to Jerusalem and wait for the promise of His Spirit. They would soon have Jesus on the inside, and the love that He had shown them by His suffering and death would be within them!

"And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:2-4 KJV

Peter preached the gospel to all those that witnessed this outpouring of God’s Spirit. Peter told the people how they too could receive God’s promise of His Spirit within.

"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

God’s promise of His Spirit is to us today – “all that are afar off.” God is calling ALL, that all may be filled with His love.

Before Jesus stepped into our lives with His grace, we were dead in sin. When we repented of our sins, were baptized in Jesus name for the remission of our sins, and received the gift of the Holy Ghost, we were made alive. (Acts 2:38, Romans 6:13)

"And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;" - Ephesians 2:1

Before we obeyed God, we were living according to the world’s standards, which is ruled by the god of this world, the prince of the power of the air, which is satan.

"In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." - 2 Corinthians 4:4

"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

Before we obeyed the gospel and came into the grace of God, we did what we wanted to, whether it pleased God or not. We led a sinful and ungodly lifestyle. By our nature we were deserving of wrath, like the rest of mankind.

"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 2:3

But God stepped into our life and called us into His grace. While our lives were still full of sin, God loved us so much that He put on flesh and blood and died for us. (John 15:13)

God was born a human being with the name which is above all His names, “Jesus”. God made for Himself a sinless human body. Because He was without sin, Jesus was able to pay the price for our sins by His suffering and death in our place. Because Jesus is God, He rose from the dead three days later.

Because we have become dead to sin, washed by His blood, buried with Him in baptism, and filled with His Spirit, we too are now alive.

"But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:" - Ephesians 2:4-6

In the ages to come, God can point to His Bride, the church, as the one He has poured His incredible wealth of his grace and mercy upon, as shown by His great sacrifice for us. (Ephesians 5:25-27)

"That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus." - Ephesians 2:7

It is by God’s mercy that we are saved. We cannot take credit for Christ’s suffering and death and for the blood He shed for our sins. Nor can we take credit for the gift of His Spirit, the Holy Ghost. We did not earn His mercy by our works. God did the work. It is when we repent, and are baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of our sins, that we can claim His blood to wash away our sins and receive the gift of His Holy Ghost. Our own good works and righteousness did not purchase our salvation: it is the gift of God. We cannot take any credit.

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast." - Ephesians 2:8-9

Because of the grace and mercy of Jesus, we can live our lives unto Him, His Spirit working through us to do His will and His good works.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." - Ephesians 2:10

Why I need the Bible in my life

We need to study the Word so that we will not be ashamed of our lack of knowledge of the word of truth.

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." - 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV

We need to study the Word so that we will not be deceived:

"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;" - Ephesians 4:14 KJV

We need to read the Word and know the doctrines of the Bible. In doing this we shall both save our self and those that hear us.

"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 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." - 1 Timothy 4:12-16 KJV

We need to be skillful in the Word of God:

"For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." - Hebrews 5:12-14 KJV

The Word of God is a major part of our armour against satan:

"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; ... And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:" - Ephesians 6:11-14, 17 KJV

Jesus fought the devil with the Word of God:

"And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him." - Matthew 4:3-11 KJV

Why church? Part 2

"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

“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:

“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;

“But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 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." - Ephesians 4:11-16 KJV

Another translation:

"Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers.

“Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.

“This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.

“Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.

“Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

“He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love." - Ephesians 4:11-16 NLT

Why Church? Part 1

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 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?" - Romans 10:13-14 KJV

"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? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." - Romans 10:15-17 KJV

What is the gospel?

"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. 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 15:1-4 KJV

How do we obey the gospel?

"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?" - Acts 2:36-37 KJV

"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

"And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." - Acts 2:40-42 KJV

"For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. ... 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." - 1 Corinthians 1:18, 21 KJV

"But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;" - Titus 1:3 KJV

There is hope for everyone through Jesus –

"Know ye not that the unrighteous [“those who do wrong”] shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived [“Don’t fool yourselves”]: neither fornicators [sexually immoral] , nor idolaters [“worship idols”], nor adulterers [“commit adultery”], nor effeminate [“male prostitutes”], nor abusers of themselves with mankind [“homosexual/sodomite”], nor thieves, nor covetous [“eager to have more, especially what belongs to others”], nor drunkards, nor revilers [“abusive”], nor extortioners [“robber, extortioner”] , 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

We are washed, sanctified, and justified when we are water baptized in Jesus name and filled with His Spirit.

When we believe that our Heavenly Father took on flesh in the name of Jesus to die for our sins because He loves us, when we turn away from a lifestyle with sin by repentance and love for Jesus, we can get water baptized in Jesus name for the forgiveness of all of our sins. God then gives us the promise of the gift of His holy Spirit, if we will receive it, bringing us peace, joy, and power to live a new life in Christ. (Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16, Hebrews 13:12, Romans 15:16, Romans 5:9)

Apostle Paul spoke of receiving an abundance of revelations.

"And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure." - 2 Corinthians 12:7 KJV

How did Paul receive this abundance of revelations?

"And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.

“Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

“But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

“For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ." - 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 KJV

Another translation reads:

"When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters, I didn't use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God's secret plan. For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. I came to you in weakness--timid and trembling. And my message and my preaching were very plain. Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God.

“Yet when I am among mature believers, I do speak with words of wisdom, but not the kind of wisdom that belongs to this world or to the rulers of this world, who are soon forgotten. No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God--his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him."

“But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. No one can know a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit.

“And we have received God's Spirit (not the world's spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit's words to explain spiritual truths.

“But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means.

“Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others.

“For, "Who can know the LORD's thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?" But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ." - 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 NLT

How does one receive God’s Spirit?

By turning their heart, mind, and life to God, turning their back to sin by repentance.

This is what Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost when God first started pouring out His Spirit upon man.

"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

“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 2:37-39 KJV

On the Day of Pentecost, the church began. Peter preached the gospel of Jesus Christ. He preached Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection. At the conclusion of his gospel message, the people responded:

"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?" - Acts 2:37 KJV

Peter had just preached the gospel to the people. Now he preached how to obey the gospel:

"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

If we want to be saved, we must turn from sin, have our sins removed by baptism in Jesus name, and receive the gift of God’s Spirit in us.

We cannot continue in sin, and expect to be saved.

We cannot expect to stand before God blameless if we have not had our sins covered by His blood by baptism IN THE NAME OF JESUS.

Without the Spirit of God within us, we do not belong to Him.

"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 KJV

Peter pleaded with the people:

"And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation." - Acts 2:40 KJV

How did the people respond?

"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." - Acts 2:41 KJV

The people were now part of the kingdom of God – they had been born again of water and of the Spirit!

"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." - John 3:5 KJV

Their spiritual journey did not stop with baptism of water and Spirit. They were born again and now needed to mature.

How would they grow?

"And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." - Acts 2:42 KJV

What do preachers preach when they preach the gospel of Jesus Christ? Part 4

We see that preachers in the Bible preached “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:” (1Corinthians 15:3-4)

We also see that next, they preached how to apply the gospel to our life by repentance, water baptism in Jesus name for the remission of sins, and by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

Apostle Peter was the first preacher to preach the gospel to the Gentiles.

God sent Peter to the home of Cornelius where he, his kinsmen, and near friends had gathered to hear all things that were commanded Peter of God.

Peter realized from a heavenly vision that he had been chosen by God to bring the gospel message for the first time to the Gentile nation.

Peter then opened his mouth and began to preach the gospel of Jesus to them, His death, burial, and resurrection.

"How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;" - Acts 10:38-40 KJV

He then preached that those that believe in Jesus may receive remission of sins through His name.

"To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins." - Acts 10:43 KJV

"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word." - Acts 10:44 KJV

The Gentiles received the gift of the Holy Ghost while Peter was preaching!

"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." - Acts 10:45 KJV

The believing Jews that came with Peter were shocked that God had accepted Gentiles into the church! When Peter first arrived at Cornelius’ house, he explained this to them.

"And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean." - Acts 10:28 KJV

How did Peter and the believing brethren that came with him know that God had filled the Gentiles with His Spirit?

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

Peter realized when he heard them speaking with tongues that God had given them the promise of the Holy Ghost. He knew now that God had granted them repentance and accepted the Gentiles. (Acts 11:1-18). Peter realized that he and the brethren must also accept them.

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

Peter also realized the Gentiles had received the PROMISE for entering into covenant with God, but they hadn’t entered into the COVENANT – they had not been WATER BAPTIZED IN JESUS NAME!

"And he COMMANDED them to be baptized in the name of the Lord." - Acts 10:48 KJV

Through Apostle Peter, the Gentiles first HEARD the gospel, and first OBEYED the gospel.

Our Heavenly Father put on a human body and dwelt among His creation. He came in His name Jesus, which is above every name.

"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;" - Philippians 2:10

"Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?" - John 14:9

"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." - 1 Timothy 3:16

The Holy Ghost that was poured out on the Day of Pentecost, is the Spirit that is in Christ.

"He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)" - John 7:38-39

"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

The Father is Spirit. The Father is revealed in flesh (humanity). The Father’s human body is called by His name, Jesus. The Father is in us when we are filled with His Spirit.

"For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you." - Matthew 10:20

"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." - John 14:17

Jesus was speaking to His disciples. They knew Him. He dwelt with them. When He said He would be in them, Jesus was talking about His Spirit being in them.

"But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:" - John 15:26

"He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." - John 14:21

Jesus is the Father. Jesus is Spirit. Jesus has a body (the son of God/the flesh of God).

There is only one Spirit, referred to as the Spirit of God, the Holy Spirit, the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Christ, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, Spirit of your Father, the Spirit.

"Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him." - John 14:23

"I and my Father are one." - John 10:30

The Father, the Spirit of God, is in Christ.

"There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all." - Ephesians 4:4-6

Church!

The Lord promised he would be back for His church. We can see the signs of the times.

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance...

Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation…" - 2 Peter 3:9, 14-15 KJV

"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 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:" - Ephesians 4:11-13 KJV

Another translation:

"The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. ... And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight. And remember, our Lord's patience gives people time to be saved…" - 2 Peter 3:9, 14-15 NLT

"Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ." - Ephesians 4:11-13 NLT

How can we avoid falling into temptation?

The Bible puts temptation into three categories - lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh, and the pride of life.

"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. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." - 1 John 2:15-17

Another translation reads,

"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. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever." - 1 John 2:15-17 NLT

The best way to keep from falling into temptation, is to not take that very first step. This means that the moment an ungodly thought comes to mind, we must dismiss it. We must not take that first step down a path that leads to destruction.

What is the process?

"But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death." - James 1:14-15

What kind of thoughts are ungodly? We should be on guard of unforgiving, judgmental, lustful, hateful, jealous, proud, or angry thoughts.

We must stop such thoughts and let them go immediately. It is when we keep thinking an ungodly thought, or allow our mind to go from one thought to another in the wrong direction, that it gets worse.

Unforgiving thoughts can escalate as we build a case against someone instead of forgiving them.

Prayer is always in order, asking God to forgive us of such thoughts, and to help us to clear our minds of them.

Prayer is also in order if the thought involves another person, praying for their salvation, their situation, as well as if they have committed any offenses against us, asking God to forgive them and to clear their account with Him of what they have done against us, which is true forgiveness.

Besides guarding our thoughts, we must guard what we look at, listen to, and where we go. Just as with our thoughts, the moment we recognize something as a temptation, we need to immediately turn from it to prevent being consumed by it.

Wisdom tells us to keep a distance from these things. If we allow ourselves to draw near to temptation, or to go where temptations are present, we set ourselves up for a fall. We must resist and distance ourselves from such places so we can keep the victory.

"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." - James 4:7

We have the assurance that with every temptation that our flesh is responding to, God has provided a way of escape. We also have the assurance that the temptations we are facing are not unique to us, but others are facing such temptations as well.

"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." - 1 Corinthians 10:13

Another translation,

"The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure." - 1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT

Most of all, we have the assurance that through the power of the Holy Ghost, we can be victorious.

As a man, Jesus faced all the temptations that any man could face, and yet was without sin. How? By the power of His Spirit. This is why as our heavenly Father Jesus put on a human body and died for our sins – so that we too could be filled with His Spirit.

When we turn to Jesus by repentance, covenant with Him by baptism in Jesus name, and receive the gift of His Holy Ghost, we receive the authority of Jesus name, and the power of His blood and Spirit to overcome any temptation that can come our way.

"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

"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." - 1 John 5:4

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." - Philippians 4:13

What do preachers preach when they preach the gospel of Jesus Christ? Part 3

God called Philip to leave Samaria.

"And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert." - Acts 8:26 KJV

"And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias [Isaiah] the prophet." - Acts 8:27-28 KJV

"Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot." - Acts 8:29 KJV

The Bible tells us a person needs a preacher to hear and obey the gospel.

"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 KJV

God sent a preacher from a great revival in Samaria out into the middle of the desert so that one man might hear and obey the gospel! This tells us one single person is as important to Jesus as thousands!

"And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.  The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: in his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus." - Acts 8:30-35 KJV

Philip preached the gospel to the man. He also preached to him how to apply the gospel to his own life.

"And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing." - Acts 8:36-39 KJV

To be continued...

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." - 2 Timothy 2:15

"Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;" - John 8:31

"But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves." - James 1:22

"I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name." - Revelation 3:8

What do preachers preach when they preach the gospel of Jesus Christ? Part 2

We see in the Bible that they preached “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:” (1Corinthians 15:3-4)

We also see that next, they preached how to apply the gospel to our life by repentance, water baptism in Jesus name for the remission of sins, and by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

Philip preached the gospel in Samaria.

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

What were the results?

There were miracles that accompanied Philip’s preaching.

"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 KJV

Philip preached Christ to them, then he preached how to apply the gospel to their life.

What was their response?

"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 KJV

The people were water baptized in Jesus name but they were not receiving the baptism 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.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost." - Acts 8:14-17 KJV

This provides an example that water baptism in Jesus name and the baptism of the Holy Ghost are two separate and distinct experiences not always occurring at the same time.

"And they [Peter and John], 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 KJV

To be continued…

What do preachers preach when they preach the gospel of Jesus Christ?

What did they preach in the Bible?

They preached “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:” (1Corinthians 15:3-4)

Peter preached the gospel on the Day of Pentecost when the church began. (Acts 2:22-24)

What was the response to his preaching?

"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?" - Acts 2:37 KJV

Next, Peter preached how to apply the gospel to our life.

"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

What was the response? 

"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." - Acts 2:41 KJV

Where else did they preach the gospel?

Peter preached the gospel at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful where the lame man was healed in the name of Jesus. (Acts 3:13-15)

He then preached how to obey the gospel. (Acts 3:19)

What was the result?

"Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand." - Acts 4:4 KJV

The next day Peter preached the gospel to the rulers, and elders, and scribes, and Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest.

"Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole." - Acts 4:10 KJV

He then preached to them salvation in the name of Jesus.

"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." - Acts 4:12 KJV

What was their response?

"And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus." - Acts 4:18 KJV

"But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." - Acts 4:19-20 KJV

"So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done." - Acts 4:21 KJV

When Peter and the other apostles were brought before the council and the high priest (Acts 5:27), they preached the gospel to them.

"The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree." - Acts 5:30 KJV

They then preached obedience to the gospel – repentance and forgiveness of sins and receiving the Holy Ghost.

"Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him." - Acts 5:31-32 KJV

What was their response?

"When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them." - Acts 5:33 KJV

They were then given good advice.

"And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: but if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God." - Acts 5:38-39 KJV

To be continued…