John the Baptist’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. John the Baptist did not baptize in the name of Jesus.

In the book of Acts, which describes the beginning of the church with the outpouring of the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost and the spread of the gospel, Apostle Paul re-baptized disciples of John the Baptist.

"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.

“And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.

“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.

“When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

“And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied." - Acts 19:1-6 KJV

If you aren’t baptized in Jesus name, you need to be re-baptized, just as they were in the Bible! (Acts 2:38)

The Bible teaches that a person is saved when they not only believe, but when they take action on that belief. (Mark 16:16)

According to the Bible, it is necessary to repent, to be baptized in Jesus name, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost to be saved. These actions are what take place when a person truly believes! (1Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-13, Acts 2:38, 2Thessalonians 1:8, 1Peter 4:17, 1Corinthians 6:9-11, John 3:5, Romans 8:6-9)

Peter preached the gospel on the Day of Pentecost, then answered the people’s question, "…Men and brethren, what shall we do?" - Acts 2:37

The people had heard Peter preach that Jesus is the promised Messiah. He preached Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. The people at this point believed the gospel message. Yet, they were not saved. They asked the essential question that a person that believes the gospel should and does ask, “What shall we DO?”

"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

Peter then answered the people’s question. Peter told them what they needed to do since they believed.

"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

THEN Peter said, “SAVE YOURSELVES.”

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

Here is the important response of the people: THEY WERE BAPTIZED.

"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

True believing results in action which brings salvation.

The people heard the gospel, they believed the gospel, but then they needed to respond with the action of baptism in order to be saved. They then OBEYED the gospel.

Notice, it was those that were baptized that were added to those that had already been baptized in Jesus name and filled with the Holy Ghost that were in the upper room. It was because of their obedience to the gospel, they were then counted as those that “BELIEVED.”

"And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common;" - Acts 2:42-44

"… And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." - Acts 2:47

When I have repented, been baptized in Jesus name and filled with His Spirit (Acts 2:38), I have become a member of the body of Christ. By repentance and baptism in Jesus name, I have made peace with God. (Colossians 1:19-23, Ephesians 4:32, Hebrews 12:14-15)

It is important that I come together with the other members of His body to hear the preaching of the word, as well as teaching and counsel. When I come together with the rest of the body, it is a time to also sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with a thankful heart!

"And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." - Colossians 3:15-16 KJV

There are some that think that Jesus ascended up to heaven the same day that He was resurrected. Jesus did not go straight up to heaven from the grave to the sky. FIRST, Jesus was a WITNESS of His resurrection for FORTY DAYS.

"To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:" - Acts 1:3 KJV

This time period is an important aspect of the gospel.

During these 40 days Jesus WITNESSED to multitudes of people that He had overcome death and the grave, by the power of His resurrection.

"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." - Revelation 1:18 KJV

When Paul said, "I declare unto you the gospel," this is what Paul said:

"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: and that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: after that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep [have died]. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles." - 1 Corinthians 15:3-7 KJV

When Paul declared the gospel, he included Jesus' witness during the forty days after His resurrection.

We obey the gospel of Jesus in our life by following His death, burial, and resurrection by death to sin by repentance, burial by baptism in Jesus name, and resurrection by infilling of His Spirit. (1Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-11, Colossians 2:11-15, Acts 2:38, Acts 2:4).

This is the beginning. We follow His forty days of witness of the power of His resurrection, by OUR witness of the power of His resurrecting Spirit in OUR life.

At the end of the 40 days, and before He ascended into heaven, Jesus let His disciples know WE TOO are to be witnesses of the power of His Spirit!

"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

"And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight." - Acts 1:9 KJV

Jesus didn't ascend from the grave and rise straight to heaven. FIRST, He was a witness of His resurrecting power.

And WE don't ascend into heaven the moment we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost! WE are witnesses of His resurrecting power!

"Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else. I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, that unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear." - Isaiah 45:22-23 KJV

"Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name 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; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." - Philippians 2:9-11 KJV

"Yet I am the LORD thy God from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but me: for there is no saviour beside me." - Hosea 13:4 KJV

"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." - Luke 2:11 KJV

"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." - Isaiah 9:6 KJV

"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." - Matthew 1:21 KJV

"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

"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. ...

“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 2:38, 41-42 KJV

There is only one God and His name is Jesus. The name of Jesus is above all other names because by the name of Jesus, God revealed Himself in flesh and paid the price of death for the sins of all mankind.

God is a Spirit. He is holy. He is the Holy Spirit. He is the Spirit of Christ because His Spirit is in the body of Christ. God fills believers with His Spirit, which is also called the Holy Ghost (a ghost is a spirit). God is not a person, He is Spirit. And He certainly is not two or three persons! He is One Spirit and His name is Jesus.

Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:

Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

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

Hebrews 2:14-15 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; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

2 Corinthians 5:19 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.

Isaiah 43:3 For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour…

John 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

Acts 2:38-39 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.

Church!

A time and place for the people of God to be perfected, making us fit, preparing us fully, to become equipped to do God’s work, by the ministry of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. A time and place for the ministry to build up the church, the body of Christ.

"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:" - Ephesians 4:11-12 KJV

The Hebrew word for repentance is Teshuvah. It means to regret sin you have done, and resolve never to do it again.

Teshuvah means to return (to God).

When we repent, we turn our back on the world (of sin) and turn to Jesus. When we repent, it is in response to our love for Jesus.

"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 KJV

Jesus said,

"And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." - Mark 8:34 KJV

When we repent, turning our life to Jesus, we deny our self. We turn from our sinful desires and lusts and give our heart and our love to Jesus. Repentance is crucifying our sinful desires out of love for Jesus, just as He crucified His own flesh out of His love for us. We follow Jesus’ death by repentance, His burial by water baptism in Jesus name, and His resurrection by receiving the gift of His Spirit to live a new and holy life.

Peter preached repentance when he preached the Gospel 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. ... And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward [perverse, wicked] generation." - Acts 2:38, 40 KJV

It is by the goodness of God that He leads us to repent.

"Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?" - Romans 2:4 KJV

By the Gospel we repent, our sins are washed away by water baptism in Jesus name, we are sanctified by receiving the gift of His Spirit. We are a glorious church, holy and without blemish.

"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word [word = ‘the gospel,’ according to Thayer’s Greek Lexicon] That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." - Ephesians 5:25-27 KJV

It is because of the longsuffering of God that He has not yet come back for His church, not willing that any should perish, but that all repent.

"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." - 2 Peter 3:9 KJV

"And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent [of their sins and turn to him]:" - Acts 17:30 KJV

What is water baptism in JESUS name? (verses written out below)

It is a covenant with God; a promise; an agreement; a testament. (Exodus 24:7-8, Hebrews 8:7-13)

We enter covenant with God by repenting of our sins - regretting and turning away from sin, turning our life around to live for Jesus. We become “dead” to sin. We are immersed in a “grave” of water where we are “buried” with Jesus. Our sins are washed away by His blood through His name, for His name “JESUS” is called upon us. (Acts 2:38, Matthew 26:28, Romans 6:3-4,6, Revelation 1:5, Acts 22:16, Acts 10:43 NLT, James 2:7)

By water baptism in JESUS name we have been born of water and have the promise of the gift of God’s Spirit, the Holy Ghost. With the infilling of His Holy Ghost, speaking in tongues as His Spirit speaks through us, we are born of His Spirit. (John 3:5,8, Acts 2:2,4)

We have been born again and have entered the kingdom of God. We are a new creature. Jesus calls us His sons and daughters. We have entered the New Covenant [New Testament]. (2 Corinthians 5:17, 2Corinthians 6:17-18, Hebrews 8:8-13)

VERSES FROM ABOVE IN PARENTHESIS WRITTEN OUT BELOW:

"And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient. And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the LORD hath made with you concerning all these words." - Exodus 24:7-8 KJV

"For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away." - Hebrews 8:7-13 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." - Acts 2:38 KJV

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

"Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life...Knowing this, that our old man [sinful nature] is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin." Romans 6:3-4, 6 KJV

"And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood," - Revelation 1:5 KJV

"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." - Acts 22:16 KJV

"He is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name."" - Acts 10:43 NLT

"Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?" - James 2:7 KJV

"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. ... The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit." - John 3:5, 8 KJV

"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 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

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." - 2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV

"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." - 2 Corinthians 6:17-18 KJV

Hebrews 8:7-13 KJV (See verses above)

When we covenant with Jesus by water baptism taking on His name, it is not simply a religious experience, it is a relationship. Jesus promises with our covenant with Him that He will fill us with His Spirit, and our new life together begins.

"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

"I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine..." - Song of Songs 6:3

Just as when we marry our spouse, we face together with Jesus the trials and tribulations of life, the good times and the lean times. In our commitment to each other, we remain true and faithful and our relationship grows stronger. (Ephesians 5:22-32)

Apostle Paul said, in everything we do and go through, we show we are faithful, true partners with Jesus, supplied with His armour, His power working in us through trials and tribulations, coming close to death, yet still alive, no matter what we go through having the joy of the Lord, as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. (2Corinthians 6:1-10)

"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." - Ephesians 5:25-27 KJV Note from Thayer’s Greek Lexicon for “word” in verse Ephesians 5:26: cleanse it with the washing of water by the “word”: “καθαρίσας... ἐν ῤήματι, according to promise (properly, on the ground of his word of promise, viz. the promise of the pardon of sins; cf. Mark 16:16), Ephesians 5:26 (others take ῤήματι here as equivalent to 'the gospel,' cf. Ephesians 6:17, Romans 10:8;”

"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready." - Revelation 19:7 (John 1:29, John 3:28-30, Ephesians 5:22-32, 2Corinthians 11:2)

What is the gospel, and how and when does a person come to obey the gospel?

The gospel is "…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 KJV

A person obeys the gospel of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, by repentance – which is death to sin, by water baptism in Jesus name – which is burial of old nature, and by Holy Ghost infilling – which is resurrection to new life. (Romans 6:1-6)

On the day of Pentecost when the church first began, Peter preached the gospel – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When he got to the end of his message, the Bible says, "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

"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." - Acts 2:40 KJV

When did they get baptized in Jesus name after they heard the preaching of the gospel?

It was the same day.

"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

When God opened the prison doors for Paul and Silas, the keeper of the prison was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried, Do not harm yourself - we are all here! Trembling, the prison keeper said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? (Acts 16:23-30)

"And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house." - Acts 16:31-32 KJV

When Paul and Silas preached unto the jailor and all that were in his house the word of the Lord, they all wanted to be baptized in Jesus name.

When did the prison keeper and his household get baptized? The same hour of the night.

"And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes [their wounds]; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway." - Acts 16:33 KJV

After Phillip preached Jesus unto the Ethiopian eunuch, the man asked Phillip if he could be baptized.

When did Phillip baptize the man?

"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?" - Acts 8:36 KJV

"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." - Acts 8:37-38 KJV

After Saul was blinded by a great light, he heard the voice of Jesus speaking to him.

"And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do." - Acts 22:10 KJV

God sent Ananias to Saul.

"And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost." - Acts 9:17 KJV

"And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized." - Acts 9:18 KJV

Later in the book of Acts, Paul was testifying of his vision and the voice of Jesus, and how Ananias came to him, to heal his blindness and tell him how God had chosen him.

"For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard." - Acts 22:15 KJV

Paul then told how Ananias told him to be baptized.

"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." - Acts 22:16 KJV

In Acts 10, God sent Peter to preach to Cornelius and his household, which were gentiles. While Peter preached the gospel to them, God filled them with His Holy Ghost.

When Peter saw that the Gentiles received the Holy Ghost (they began speaking in tongues), he then commanded them to be baptized.

"Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days." - Acts 10:47-48 KJV

When Paul came to Ephesus, he found disciples of John the Baptist. When Paul asked them how they were baptized, they told him “Unto John's baptism.”

"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 KJV

When they heard they needed to be baptized in Jesus name, they were then baptized!

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

"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 KJV

"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; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." - Hebrews 2:14-15

We are set free from sin and death when we obey the gospel as found in Acts 2:38!

"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:" - 2 Timothy 1:10

“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." - Revelation 1:18

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

We obey the gospel and are set free from the sin in our life that brings death, when we obey 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

By obeying the gospel, we have applied the blood of the Lamb to our life by water baptism in Jesus name, and have been filled with the Spirit of Jesus when we received the Holy Ghost.

"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

"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." - Revelation 12:11

There is only one God. He is our Heavenly Father, Creator of the universe, and Savior of the world. His NAME is 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

"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

"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

"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

Is it really important how a person is baptized?

Yes, water baptism by immersion in the name of JESUS for the remission of sins is very important.

It is by baptism in Jesus name that our sins are remitted/washed away/buried, because by the name of Jesus the blood of Jesus is applied to a person. (Matthew 26:28, Acts 2:38, Acts 10:43, 48, Acts 22:16, Revelation 1:5, Exodus 12:5-7, 13, 1Peter 1:18-19, Revelation 12:11, Romans 6:3-4, Colossians 1:14, Colossians 2:11-12. 1Corinthians 6:11.)

Water baptism in Jesus name is a blood covenant. It is compared to circumcision, which is also a blood covenant. In circumcision, the flesh is cut off, the person is given their name, blood is shed, and the person is joined to God’s people. (Genesis 17:14, Colossians 2:11-12, Luke 2:21.) Water baptism in Jesus name is the New Covenant fulfillment of circumcision in the Old Covenant. In baptism in Jesus name, it represents Jesus’ cutting off of His flesh by death, and His blood was shed. It represents our cutting off the lusts of our flesh and sin by repentance and baptism, and applying Jesus death and blood to us personally. We are given the name of Jesus in water baptism in Jesus name, just as in circumcision the name is given. The name of Jesus is called upon us. (Acts 22:16, Acts 15:17, Acts 9:21, James 2:7.)

Water baptism is one of the two ingredients of the New Birth of John 3:3-5 which Jesus said is necessary to enter the kingdom of God. Our spiritual life lines up with the natural, from conception to adulthood. Just as there is a mother and father involved with natural birth, there is a mother and Father involved with our spiritual birth. Only the mother – the church – can water baptize a person in Jesus name. Only the Father – Jesus – can Spirit baptize a person with His Holy Spirit (Holy Ghost). It takes mother and Father and they cannot be interchanged in their roles. Jesus gave authority to the church to remit sins in His Great Commission found in the gospel of John 20:21-23, and this authority was used on the Day of Pentecost when the church first began. (Acts 2:38-41.) The church is responsible for baptizing souls in Jesus name. On the other hand, only Jesus can fill a person with His Spirit. No man can do this. When a person is filled with the Spirit of Jesus, the person speaks in other tongues as the Spirit gives the utterance. (Acts 2:4, Acts 19:6, Acts 10:45-46.) Just as when a baby is born from its mother, there is water that comes forth, then the baby takes its first breath of air and lets out a cry, letting everyone know he has taken his first breath. (The sound of the infilling of the Spirit is spoken of by Jesus when He is speaking of being born of the Spirit. Jesus compares the Holy Spirit with the wind. He said the wind blows where it lists and you hear the SOUND but can’t tell where it came from and where it is going – so is every one that is born of the Spirit. (John 3:8.) When a person is born of the Spirit, they too let out a sound. What is heard is the sound of the Spirit that has just filled them. It is speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives the utterance.) Both births, water and the Spirit, are necessary to enter the kingdom of God. (John 3:5.)

The Bible says we are saved by baptism. (1Peter 3:21.) Water baptism in Jesus name is compared to Noah and the flood. The sin of the world in Noah’s day was washed away, while Noah was saved by the water, safe in the ark. Our sins are washed away, while we are saved by water baptism in Jesus name. The ark is a type of the church. (i.e. One door – Jesus is the door.) We enter into the church by water and Spirit baptism.

Water baptism in Jesus name is an essential part of obedience to the gospel. The gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. (1Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-23.) We must obey the gospel in order to be saved. (2Thessalonians 1:8, 1Peter 4:17, Romans 10:16.) Obeying the gospel is by repentance and water baptism in Jesus name, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, which follows Jesus’ death (crucifixion), burial, and resurrection. (Romans 6:1-4, Colossians 2:11-12, Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, Luke 9:23, Acts 2:38.)

There appears to be some confusion about tongues.

We know that God is not the author of confusion.

1Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.

Therefore we know that if there is confusion, this confusion is from satan.

We must have the Holy Ghost (the Spirit of God) in order to be saved.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

We need His Spirit to belong to Him.

Romans 8:9 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.

If we want to please God, we must walk in His Spirit. To walk in His Spirit, we must STAY FULL of His Spirit.

Galatians 5:16-17 ¶This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

It is by the power of His Spirit that we overcome sin, live a holy life, and become witnesses.

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

To be a true worshiper, we need His Spirit.

John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

The Spirit of Jesus acts as our Defense Attorney. “Counsel for defense” is a meaning of the Greek word that is translated as “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.

Jesus gives us His Spirit to "plead the blood of Jesus", reminding satan that the blood of Jesus washed away our sins when we were baptized in Jesus name. Because we are now living a holy and overcoming life, satan has nothing to accuse us with!

Jesus gives us His Spirit to teach us and to remind us of what He said.

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.

His Spirit guides us into all truth and will show us things to come.

John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

It is by the power of His Spirit that we will be resurrected. It is His Spirit that will raise us up from the grave.

Romans 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

Because we need the Spirit of Jesus to be saved, it makes sense that satan would try to cause confusion as to whether or not a person has received God's Spirit! satan would like a person to think they have received God’s Spirit when they have not. Thankfully, Jesus makes it clear when a person has received His Spirit: they speak in tongues (a language they have not learned) as the Spirit of God gives them the ability to speak.

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

When we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (God’s Spirit) we speak in tongues. We speak in tongues as God speaks through us in a language we have not learned.

A key to why God chose tongues to be the sign of a person receiving His Spirit is found in James 3:2-8.

James 3:2-8 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. 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. 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. 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.

In these verses, the tongue is described as an “unruly evil” among the members of the body. James declares, “the tongue can no man tame”.

No man can tame the tongue, but by a repentant heart and the desire to receive God’s Spirit, Jesus can tame our tongue.

With words of praise, worship, and thanksgiving, Jesus will baptize a person with His Holy Ghost and they will speak in another tongue (language) as the Spirit of God speaks through them.

The tongue is the last thing to surrender to God when we are allowing Him to fill us with His Spirit. When the Lord controls our tongue, it is a sign that we have given Him full control of our life!

Because the tongue is the last to surrender, it makes sense that tongues are the sign for being FILLED with the Holy Ghost.

Some people say, “I have the Holy Spirit, but I haven’t spoken in tongues – I don’t have the Gift of Tongues.”

This confusion comes from lack of knowing the Word of God. The Word shows that God uses tongues for more than one purpose.

First of all, God uses tongues when a person is filled with the Holy Ghost. Tongues are a sign. When a person is filled with God’s Spirit for the first time, they may speak only a few syllables, or may speak for a long duration. Because it is by God’s grace that Jesus gives us His Spirit, it is called the GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST.

Acts 2:38-39 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.

When Peter preached the gospel to the Gentiles for the first time, Peter knew they received the Holy Ghost because he heard them speak in tongues.

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

Acts 11:15-18 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 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? When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

When disciples of John the Baptist were re-baptized in Jesus name, Paul laid his hands on them and they received the Holy Ghost. When they received the Holy Ghost they spoke in tongues.

Acts 19:1-6 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 [heard that the Holy Ghost was being poured out]. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. 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. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Second, God uses tongues as one of the nine gifts of the Spirit.

1Corinthians 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

The gifts of the Spirit are given to individuals for the profit of all. Thus, this use of tongues occurs as a message to the whole church body.

This gift of tongues needs to be combined with the gift of interpretation of tongues in order for the church to understand the message and be edified. Otherwise, only the person speaking is edified (built up, strengthened).

1Corinthians 14:5 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.

1Corinthians 14:17-19 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

The Bible gives rules of order for this.

1Corinthians 14:27-28 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. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

1Corinthians 14:39-40 Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order.

Everyone speaks in tongues when they receive the Holy Ghost, but not everyone speaks with the gift of tongues. This can be compared with faith and the GIFT of faith. Everyone that comes to God must have faith.

Hebrews 11:6 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.

However, not everyone is used in the GIFT of faith.

The key that distinguishes the GIFT OF TONGUES is that it is for the purpose of ministering to the church body. This holds true for all nine gifts of the Spirit. They are designed to operate when the whole church is come together. For example, the gift of prophecy includes anointed preaching, which is ministered to the whole church body.

1Corinthians 14:23-25 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: and thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.

Third, God uses tongues in prayer. When we are filled with the Holy Ghost and have a feeling (“burden”) to pray for a person or situation, there are times that God begins to change our words into speaking in tongues. When we allow God to intercede in our prayer with tongues, we are able to pray according to what God knows needs to be prayed.

Romans 8:26-27 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Praying in tongues is also called praying “in the Spirit” and “praying in the Holy Ghost.”

Ephesians 6:18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Jude 1:20-21 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

When we have prayed all the words we can think of, the Lord can pray through us in tongues as the Spirit of God speaks through us in languages we have not learned. The Lord can speak through us precisely what the person or situation needs and that only Jesus may know about! What a blessing to ourselves and others!

Not only is receiving the Spirit of God necessary, important, and useful in so many ways, so too is speaking in tongues. Satan would rather have us confused about this so that we would not receive the promises and blessings of God. But we are not ignorant of his devices!

When we have turned from our sins, have been baptized in Jesus name to wash our sins away, and received His Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38), we need to learn to be led by the Spirit of God. This way we can live a victorious life overcoming sin and be used by God in His kingdom.

"For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit." - Romans 8:5 KJV

Jesus will lead us: in our conversation (feeling led to not say what we are about to say, or led to say something), in our actions (to do something or not do something, go someplace or not go someplace), in our thoughts (to stop thinking about something, or think about something), in our prayers (putting a person on our mind, putting a situation on our mind).

"Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." - Romans 8:12-14 KJV

The Right Hand of God

The right hand of God represents God’s power.

"Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy." - Exodus 15:6

"And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven." - Mark 14:62 (Also: Matthew 26:64, Luke 22:69).

The right hand of God represents God’s saving power.

"Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand." - Psalm 20:6

"For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour unto them." - Psalm 44:3

"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me." - Psalm 138:7

God’s right hand represents His righteousness.

"According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness." - Psalm 48:10

"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." - Isaiah 41:10

When the Bible speaks of sitting on the right hand of God, it is not speaking of a physical location next to God, for God is Spirit and is everywhere at once, filling the universe. Rather, sitting on the right hand of God is speaking about being in the place of authority, honour, and power.

"So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God." - Mark 16:19

When Stephen, the first martyr, looked up to heaven, he saw the body of Jesus, the image of the invisible God. Jesus was not standing next to another god, for Jesus is God. The Bible refers to the right hand of God as the power of God. Stephen saw Jesus standing in the power and glory of God.

"But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God." - Acts 7:55-56

Stephen recognized that Jesus is God.

"And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." - Acts 7:59

The right hand of God is the authority of God.

"But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; from henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool." - Hebrews 10:12-13

"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." - Hebrews 12:2

"Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him." - 1 Peter 3:22

God did a greater work than creating the universe: He humbled Himself and became a man to pay the price of our sins on a tree and save us. He is the Lamb of God that sits in the throne. He is King of kings, Lord of lords, the all-powerful God Jesus Christ.

When the world is raging, its systems are collapsing, there is One we can look to for help - there is One that we can put our trust in. JESUS.

"And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee." - Psalm 9:10

When all fails, Jesus never fails.

"What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee." - Psalm 56:3

The world’s riches cannot save a soul, only Jesus can. (Acts 2:38)

"They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:" - Psalm 49:6-7

"The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence." - 2 Samuel 22:3

"Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah." - Psalm 62:8

When we seek Jesus first, and His kingdom, we cannot fail. If we seek riches, they can fail. When JESUS is our riches, we cannot lose.

"Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;" - 1 Timothy 6:17

"And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!" - Mark 10:24

When we have put our trust in Jesus, we do not fear what the world can do to us.

"In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me." - Psalm 56:11

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" - Psalm 27:1

We trust in the name of Jesus. Oh how we love His name!

"But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee." - Psalm 5:11

What is the gospel?

Christ died for our sins, He was buried, He rose again the third day. (1Corinthians 15:1-4)

How are we saved by the gospel?

We are saved by the gospel when we follow Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Repentance is our death to sin. Water baptism in Jesus name is burial of our old nature. Holy Ghost infilling is resurrection to new life. (Romans 6:1-11)

"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.

“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. ... Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." - Acts 2:38-42, 47 KJV

What does it mean to be born again of water and of the Spirit?

Some people think that being born of water is our natural birth, when we came out of the womb with water.

But what does the Bible say?

When Jesus told Nicodemus, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God,” Nicodemus was confused. (John 3:3)

"Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?" - John 3:4 KJV

Jesus gave Nicodemus a clearer explanation, to let him know that the birth that He was talking about is a spiritual birth, not our natural birth.

"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

Jesus made it very clear that He was not speaking of our natural birth of the flesh but rather a spiritual birth of the Spirit of God.

"That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again." - John 3:6-7 KJV

As soon as Jesus finished talking to Nicodemus about being born of water and of the Spirit, John records that Jesus came into the land of Judea and there tarried with His disciples and baptized. (John 3:22, John 3:26).

Baptizing with water in Jesus name is what Jesus was talking about when He said, "Except a man be born of water..."

In the next chapter, John 4, Jesus began speaking of the baptism of His Spirit – we must also be born of His Spirit to enter His kingdom. Jesus spoke of His Spirit as the gift of God. He compared His Spirit to living water.

"Jesus answered and said unto her (the woman at the well), If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water." - John 4:10 KJV

Being born of His Spirit brings everlasting life. Being born of water and of His Spirit allows us to enter into the kingdom of God.

"Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." - John 4:13-14 KJV

John chapter 7 clarifies that this living water is the Holy Ghost that Jesus would pour out on the Day of Pentecost, after His resurrection and ascension.

"In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 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 7:37-39 KJV

Jesus spoke of the Holy Ghost experience to Nicodemus. He let Nicodemus know that when a person is born of the Spirit there is a sound.

"The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit." - John 3:8 KJV

On the day of Pentecost when Jesus poured out His Spirit, there was a sound. Just as Jesus said, there was a sound like the wind. The sound that came when they were born of the Spirit in that upper room was speaking in tongues as the Spirit spoke through 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 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

On that Day of Pentecost, Peter stood up with the rest of the Apostles and preached the gospel. He then preached what they must do to be born again of the water and of the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God.

"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

The Holy Ghost truly is a gift from God!

By the gift of God's Spirit in us, we can sit in heavenly places.

"And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:" - Ephesians 2:6 KJV

And this is just the earnest of our inheritance!

"Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory." - Ephesians 1:14 KJV

God promises He will give us this precious treasure of His Holy Ghost in our humble, human, “earthen vessel.” It is beyond comprehension to think that God Almighty would live within us!

"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

"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." - 2 Corinthians 4:7 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