Prayer

Prayer

Hannah prayed, and the Lord gave her a son, Samuel.

"And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore. ... For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him:" - 1 Samuel 1:10, 27 KJV

Solomon prayed, and the fire came down from heaven, and the glory of the LORD filled the house.

"Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the LORD filled the house." - 2 Chronicles 7:1 KJV

Daniel prayed, and God gave him understanding of the end times.

"Yea, whiles I was speaking in prayer, even the man Gabriel…informed me, and talked with me, and said, O Daniel, I am now come forth to give thee skill and understanding." - Daniel 9:21-22 KJV

The church prayed and Peter was miraculously delivered from prison.

"Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. ... And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews." - Acts 12:5, 11 KJV

Through prayer, things can be accomplished that we could never do. Souls can be reached that we could never reach. Miracles can happen. Never underestimate what God will do through your prayers.

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." - Philippians 4:6 KJV

Faith

Faith

"And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith. And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you." - Luke 17:5-6

Jesus told His disciples, a grain of mustard seed is the smallest of seeds, yet when it is sown, it grows and becomes greater than all herbs. (Mark 4:31-32).

When faith is sown in our heart, even if it is a tiny seed of faith, it will grow and become great faith.

We hear about Jesus. We believe. A tiny seed of faith is planted. We begin praying, thanking Jesus for another day of life. We ask Him for His help with the things of life we are going through. We see Jesus answering prayer after prayer. We see Him working miracles. We see His healing touch in our life. With each prayer answered, our faith grows.

Faith is essential to our relationship with God

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

We have faith in God. We believe the Creator of the universe stepped down into humanity, taking on the form of man, so that He could pay the price of our sins. 

Through faith by believing, we are baptized in the name of Jesus, applying His blood to our life for the remission of our sins. (Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38)

Because of our faith, we believe God's promise, and receive the gift of His Spirit in us, the Holy Ghost.

"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." - Acts 2:38-39

Faith is the beginning. Faith grows. Faith takes us through trials, works miracles, and takes us places as God’s hands, feet, and mouthpiece. We live by faith. We walk by faith. We stand fast in faith. And faith keeps us to the day when we see our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ face to face.

Killing Sin

"Knowing this, that our old man [our old sinful self] is crucified with him [Jesus], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin." - Romans 6:6 KJV

We put sin to death in our life by repentance, burying our sins by water baptism in the name of Jesus. We COVENANT with Jesus that we HENCEFORTH will not serve sin. When entering into this blood covenant, we have the promise of the gift of God’s Spirit, the Holy Ghost, so that we may overcome sin and live a NEW life in Christ.

"Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:" - Romans 6:3-5 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 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 2:39 KJV

Because we have put sin to death in our life, and walk in the power of His holy Spirit, we become a witness for Jesus. Our life is changed. We have a new commitment and a new relationship with Him. 

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

"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost [Spirit] 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

"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." - Romans 8:1 KJV

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

The Followers of Jesus Preaching His Kingdom

The Followers of Jesus Preaching His Kingdom 

While Jesus preached His kingdom throughout His ministry and after His resurrection, His followers also preached the things concerning the kingdom of God. 

Philip preached the things concerning the kingdom of God in Samaria, resulting in them getting baptized in the name of Jesus  and then receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 8:14-17).

"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

During his entire ministry, Paul preached the things concerning the kingdom of God. 

"And when they had preached the gospel to that city [Derbe], and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God." - Acts 14:21-22 KJV

"And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God." - Acts 19:8 KJV

When Paul said his goodbye to the elders of the church at Ephesus, Paul spoke how he had preached the kingdom of God to them. (Acts 20:17-38).

"And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more." - Acts 20:25 KJV

Paul went to Jerusalem, where he was accused of the Jews, then appealed to Caesar, and was taken to Rome. In Rome, in his last years, he continued to preach the kingdom of God. Paul was permitted to have his own private lodging, though he was guarded by a soldier. (Acts 28:16).

"And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening." - Acts 28:23 KJV 

"And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him." - Acts 28:30-31 KJV

It's time to come home

Jesus told of a man that had two sons.

The younger son went to his father and asked for his share of his inheritance. So his father divided his wealth, giving to him his half.

"And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living [wild living]." - Luke 15:13 KJV

"And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him." - Luke 15:14-16 KJV

Fed up with the world of sin? When the son "came to himself" he realized true Life is found returning to his Father's house! 

Jesus said,

"I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst." - John 6:35 KJV

"And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 

“And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son." - Luke 15:20-21 KJV

"But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: and bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: 

For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry." - Luke 15:22-24 KJV

Jesus said,

"I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. ... Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." - Luke 15:7, 10 KJV

"I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:" - John 11:25 KJV

"For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." - Luke 19:10 KJV

"It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found." - Luke 15:32 KJV

Jesus is a loving Father ready to forgive. It's time to come home.

The Kingdom - Part 3

The Kingdom – Part 3

To be in the kingdom of God, we must not only get oil in our lamps (born of the Spirit - John 3:5), but we must KEEP full of oil (full of the Holy Ghost - Acts 6:3).

"Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom…" - Matthew 25:1 (See verses 2-13).

The kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom entered by repentance, baptism in the name of Jesus, and receiving the Holy Ghost. The kingdom of God is within us. (John 3:5, Acts 2:38).

"The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you." - Luke 17:20-21 

"For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost." - Romans 14:17 

"For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power." - 1 Corinthians 4:20 

When we enter the kingdom of God by being born of water and of the Spirit, we receive the power of the Spirit that is life changing.

"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 

The power of the Holy Ghost gives us a life changing experience that we become witnesses of. By the Holy Ghost and baptism in the name of Jesus we are washed, sanctified, and justified. 

"Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind [practice homosexuality], nor thieves, nor covetous [greedy of gain], nor drunkards, nor revilers [are abusive], nor extortioners [cheat people], shall inherit the kingdom of God." - 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 

WERE!!

"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 6:11

By the gospel, repentance, baptism in the name of Jesus, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost , we are transformed, able to enter into the kingdom! (John 3:5).

The Kingdom - Part 2

The Kingdom Part 2

Jesus went everywhere, preaching the kingdom of God.

"And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him," - Luke 8:1 KJV

The "glad  tidings" of the kingdom is another word for the "gospel"of  the kingdom.

"And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people." - Matthew 9:35 KJV

Jesus told Nicodemus how we enter the kingdom. 

"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 gave Peter the keys to the kingdom. 

"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven..." - Matthew 16:19 KJV 

(Matthew speaks of the kingdom as “the kingdom of heaven,” while Mark, Luke, and John speak of the kingdom as “the kingdom of God.”)

With the keys from Jesus, Peter, full of the Holy Ghost, made clear what being born of water and of the Spirit is and exactly how we enter the kingdom.

"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

We are born of water when we are water baptized in the name of Jesus. We are born of the Spirit when we are baptized with the Spirit, filled with the Holy Ghost. 

When we enter the kingdom of God by being born of water and of the Spirit to live our lives for God, we must not look back to the world of sin. 

"And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." - Luke 9:62 KJV

The Kingdom

The Kingdom

When the angel Gabriel came to Mary, he spoke to her about her son and His kingdom.

"And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end." - Luke 1:33 KJV

At the beginning of His ministry, Jesus preached about the kingdom. During His ministry, Jesus taught many things about the kingdom.

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

After His resurrection, Jesus spoke about the kingdom. 

"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

Jesus taught His disciples to pray about the kingdom.

"After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. ... And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: for thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen." - Matthew 6:9-10, 13 KJV

Jesus taught we must seek first the kingdom.

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." - Matthew 6:33 KJV

Jesus told Peter,

"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." - Matthew 16:19 KJV

When His disciples asked Him about the end of the world, Jesus spoke of the gospel of the kingdom. 

"And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." - Matthew 24:14 KJV

Jesus told His disciples the kingdom was a mystery, but the mystery was revealed to them.

"And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:" - Mark 4:11 KJV

To be continued…

The Thief On the Cross - Part 2

Thief on the Cross Part Two

What does the Bible say about the thief on the cross?

The conversation between the thieves and Jesus is recorded in Luke.

Matthew, Mark, and John do not record the conversation.

Matthew records that both the thieves joined in the mocking of Jesus. (Matthew 27:41-44).

"The thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth." - Matthew 27:44

Most importantly, Mark points out that the two thieves being crucified with Jesus fulfills scripture:

"And with him they crucify two thieves; the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors." - Mark 15:27-28. (Isaiah 53:12).

Luke records that Jesus pointed out after the Last Supper that this scripture had to still be accomplished in Him. 

"For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the transgressors: for the things concerning me have an end." - Luke 22:37 

Luke included in his gospel a conversation between Jesus and the thieves to show the fulfillment of this prophecy, “…and made intercession for the transgressors." (Isaiah 53:12).

"And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. ... And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise." - Luke 23:32-33, 39-43

Much of what is recorded here in the gospels is to show that Jesus fulfilled the scriptures. (Luke 24:44).There were many prophecies, and Jesus fulfilled them all. 

So we see that Luke’s version of the thief on the cross shows that “all things must be fulfilled,” which the thief on the cross accomplished.

The Thief on the Cross

The Thief on the Cross -;Part One

There are some that say that because in Luke 23:43 Jesus said to the thief on the cross, “To day shalt thou be with me in paradise,” that it isn’t necessary to be baptized in the name of Jesus to be saved. 

But what does the Bible say?

Jesus, the Creator of the universe, was born as God manifest in flesh in order to bring the New Testament, also called the New Covenant. 

The New Testament did not begin until after the death of Jesus.

"For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth." - Hebrews 9:17

Obviously, the conversation between Jesus and the thief on the cross was before the death of Jesus. 

Thus, the thief on the cross was not part of the New Testament/New Covenant that Jesus came to bring.

Because we live AFTER the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, God’s terms of the New Testament/New Covenant apply to us. (Hebrews 8:6-12).

What is the New Testament/New Covenant?

At the last supper before His death, Jesus said:

"For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins." - Matthew 26:28 (Also in Mark 14:24, and Luke 22:20).

When did the new covenant begin?

It began after Jesus shed His blood – after His death, burial, and resurrection, and His ascension up to heaven. It officially began on the Day of Pentecost, when the Holy Ghost was first poured out and the church of the New Covenant began.

The first message of the New Covenant was delivered by Apostle Peter on the Day of Pentecost. He preached of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection – the gospel. (1Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-14).

Peter then preached what we must do to obey the gospel. (Acts 2:38).

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

"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

Putting on Christ by Water and Spirit Baptism

"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 

When we repent of our sins, are baptized in the name of Jesus and are filled with His Holy Ghost we have put on Christ. 

We identify with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection by repentance, water baptism in the name of Jesus, and Spirit baptism by receiving the gift of His Holy Ghost, speaking in tongues as His Spirit speaks through us. (Acts 2:4).

We become a new creature in Jesus. We have crucified and buried our old nature/old man of sin and have put on the new man, Christ Jesus. His Holy Spirit is in us. We walk in His Spirit. (Colossians 2:11-12).

"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." - Galatians 3:27 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." - Romans 6:3-4 KJV 

"Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin." - Romans 6:6 KJV

"But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof." - Romans 13:14 KJV

"And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." - Ephesians 4:24 KJV

"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." - Galatians 5:24 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

"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." - Romans 8:1 KJV

"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him:" - Colossians 2:6 KJV

Know them which labour among you

What does it mean, “to KNOW them which labour among you”?

"And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake." - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 KJV

The definition from Thayer’s Greek Lexicon of this word “know,” is the following:

“Hebraistically, εἰδέναι τινα to have regard for one, cherish, pay attention to: 1 Thessalonians 5:12” 

"Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. [Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.]" - Hebrews 13:7 KJV

"Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. [Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit.]" - Hebrews 13:17 KJV 

"For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God." - 1 Thessalonians 2:9 KJV

"Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest." - Luke 10:2 KJV

"Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward." - 1 Timothy 5:17-18 KJV

"And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church... 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 20:17, 28 KJV

One God

God made Himself a body when He overshadowed Mary and she conceived (Luke 1:35). At this point, the Father was in the Son - God was manifest in the flesh (John 14:9, 1Timothy 3:16). He is all powerful God that humbled Himself and felt the pain and temptations of a human (Philippians 2:8, Hebrews 4:15). 

The man Jesus is the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15). All the fullness of the Father is in Him.  (Colossians 1:19). Through the blood of this flesh that the Father dwelt in, He reconciled all humanity back to Himself (Acts 20:28, Colossians 1:20, 2Corinthians 5:19). 

By the gospel, His death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus brought salvation. We claim His salvation by crucifying our sinful nature, burying it in water baptism in the name of Jesus, and receiving the gift of His Spirit, the Holy Ghost. (1Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-6, Acts 2:38, Acts 4:12).

"Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: for by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 

“And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; and, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. 

“And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: if ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel... " - Colossians 1:12-23

Stand

The Bible tells us we are to stand. 

"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of ; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;" - Ephesians 6:14-15 

The member of our body that we stand with is our feet. The Bible tells us to have our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

What is the gospel?

The gospel is the death burial and resurrection of Jesus. We stand in the gospel. 

"Mreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;" - 1 Corinthians 15:1  

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

Why is it called the gospel of peace?

Because by His death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus made peace between Himself and man.

"And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself... " - Colossians 1:20 

"To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them... " - 2 Corinthians 5:19 

By the gospel, we are able to put on the whole armour of God. 

"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." - Ephesians 6:11-12 

"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." - Ephesians 6:13 

Why does Ithe Bible tell us to have our feet shod with the PREPARATION of the gospel of peace? 

We have made preparation of the gospel on our feet, when we  have obeyed the gospel. 

After the people heard the gospel on the Day of Pentecost, Peter told them how to obey the gospel. 

"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

Nicodemus and John 3:16

Baptism obviously is important. When Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, came by night to talk to Jesus, the first thing Jesus said to him was, 

"Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." - John 3:3

Nicodemus did not understand that Jesus was speaking about BAPTISM.

"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 

Jesus clarified that He was NOT talking about a PHYSICAL birth from our mother – He was talking about a SPIRITUAL birth being born again by WATER BAPTISM and SPIRIT BAPTISM. 

"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. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit." - John 3:5-6 

Jesus next spoke to Nicodemus of His crucifixion - that He must be “lifted up.”  

"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:" - John 3:14 

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." - John 3:16 

JESUS IS STILL SPEAKING TO NICODEMUS!

Next, Jesus spoke about the importance of His NAME – “JESUS” – to be saved. 

"He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God." - John 3:18 

What does Jesus do next?

Jesus BAPTIZED.

"After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized." - John 3:22 

Yes, WATER BAPTISM in the NAME OF JESUS is not only important, it is NECESSARY for our SALVATION.

"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 

"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

Sons of God and Lights in the World

When I am baptized in the name of Jesus and filled with His Spirit I become a son of God – that I may shine as a light in the world.

Our Heavenly Father, Creator of the universe, revealed Himself in human flesh and blood to reconcile the world back to Himself (2 Corinthians 5:19). He came in His name of Salvation – “Jesus.” He was not recognized by His creation. His own covenant people, the Jews, as a whole did not receive Him. BUT those that do, He gives us power to BECOME His sons – to those that believe on His name, Jesus.

We, as sons of God, are not born sons of God at our natural birth, as Christ was. We must be born AGAIN of water and of the Spirit to BECOME a son of God. (John 3:5). Christ is the only one that was born at His natural birth as the Son of God – thus, the only begotten Son of God. (Luke 1:31, Luke 1:35, Matthew 1:20).

"He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." - John 1:10-14 KJV 

We are born a son of God when we are born again, born of water and of the Spirit. We are born of water by water baptism in the name of Jesus. We are born of the Spirit by the baptism of the Holy Ghost, speaking with other tongues, as the Spirit gives us utterance. (John 3:5, Acts 2:38, Acts 2:4). 

"That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;" - Philippians 2:15 KJV

[Philippians 2:12-15, 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, Galatians 4:3-7, Romans 8:13-23, 29-30, Hebrews 2:10, Hebrews 12:1-11, 22-23, 1 John 3:1-3]

The Power of the Holy Ghost

"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." - Acts 2:38-39 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 

"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." - John 16:13 KJV 

"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." - John 14:26 KJV 

"For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost." - Romans 14:17 KJV 

"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 

"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." - Romans 8:11 KJV 

"Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality." - 1 Corinthians 15:51-53 KJV

From: Exploring God's Word Bible Study

Church! Let us exalt the name of Jesus TOGETHER!!

One of the disciples of Jesus said to Him, 

"Lord, teach us to pray..."

Jesus taught them to pray TOGETHER:

(CAPS,my emphasis)

"After this manner therefore pray ye: OUR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give US this day OUR daily bread. And forgive US OUR debts, as WE forgive OUR debtors. And lead US not into temptation, but deliver US from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen." - Matthew 6:9-13 

We as the church though many members, are ONE TOGETHER. 

"So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another." - Romans 12:5 

"Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." - 1 Corinthians 12:27 

"And he is the head of the body, the church..." - Colossians 1:18a 

As the early church did, we come together - To worship the Lord with singing, thanksgiving, and praise, to hear the preaching of the Word, to fellowship and to encourage one another. And so much the more, as we see the day of the return of Jesus approaching!

TOGETHER -

Church! Let us exalt His name Jesus together!

"And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." - Hebrews 10:24-35 

"...that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;" - Philippians 1:27 

"Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord." - 1 Thessalonians 4:17 

"Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do." - 1 Thessalonians 5:11 

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 

"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 

[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 (lust) 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.]

What hope do we have if we turn from the temptations 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 2:17 

How can we resist our sinful habits and desires and please God? 

We can receive the gift from God of His Spirit to overcome temptation and become a witness of His transforming power. Being renewed in His Spirit daily gives us victory."

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 

When we choose to please God with our whole heart turning our back on sin and being baptized in His name Jesus, God promises to give us the gift of His Spirit - the Holy Ghost. 

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

“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 

This is how we are born of God, doing His will with the power of His Spirit, overcoming the world in victory.

"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 

Fiery Darts

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." - 1 Peter 4:12-13 KJV

"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." - Ephesians 6:11-12 KJV

Our battle is not with people; it is with rits that are influencing them.

"Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." - Ephesians 6:16 KJV

Build up your shield of faith by praying in the Holy Ghost. (Praying in tongues).

"But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost," - Jude 1:20 KJV

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

Paul forgave people.

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

"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." - Galatians 6:9 KJV

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." - 1 Corinthians 15:58 KJV

A New Life in Jesus!

When we obey the gospel - we repent, are baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost - The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

"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

[Photo from Exploring God's Word Bible study]

Salvation in His Name Jesus

I am baptized in the name of JESUS because there is none other NAME under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.

"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

Have You Received the Holy Ghost?

The Holy Ghost - the Spirit of Jesus in us - is not just a good thing to have; the Holy Ghost is necessary to be saved.

"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

"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. ... 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 8:1, 9 KJV

We are born of the Spirit just like they were on the day of Pentecost. Jesus commanded His disciples to wait for the promise of His Spirit which He would soon pour out. (Luke 24:46-49, Acts 1:4-5).

"And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place." - Acts 2:1 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 (Tongues then became the universal sign of receiving the Holy Ghost). 

Peter preached the gospel to all those that saw and heard the disciples speaking in tongues as they received the promised Holy Ghost.

Peter preached the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. (Acts 2:22-24).

"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. ... 

“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." - Acts 2:38-39, 41 KJV

Church!

Church!

At church we have the word on three different levels. We see the written Word in our Bible, we hear the spoken Word in the preaching and teaching, and we have the Word as the Spirit of God in us, on all three levels revealing, correcting, encouraging, teaching and preaching to us.

"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." - Hebrews 4:12 KJV

"So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it." - Isaiah 55:11 KJV

"For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe." - 1 Thessalonians 2:13 KJV

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." - Psalm 139:23-24 KJV

What does the Bible say?

There are some that say you only have to believe and that you do not have to be baptized in the name of Jesus to be saved.

It is by baptism in the name of Jesus that we have remission of sins. How can a person be saved when their sins have not been remitted?

“Remission” means, “forgiveness, pardon, of sins (the letting them go, as if they had not been committed), remission of their penalty” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon).

Jesus spoke to His disciples,

"Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." - Luke 24:46-47

It was in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost that Peter first preached repentance and remission of sins in the name of Jesus.

"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

Notice Peter preached "be baptized EVERY ONE OF YOU IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS"

Later, God called Peter to preach the gospel to the Gentiles  Peter had just finished preaching about the power of the name of Jesus to remit sins.

"While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision [Jews] 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." - Acts 10:44-48

Notice Peter "COMMANDED THEM TO BE BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF THE LORD."

Peter understood the necessity of water baptism in the name of Jesus for salvation. 

"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

Called by His Name Jesus by Baptism in the Name of Jesus

When we are baptized in the name of Jesus, the name “Jesus” is called upon us. God's holy, saving name, “JESUS” becomes our name. 

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

When the Gentiles were converted to the church, 

"There rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, that it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses." - Acts 15:5 

"And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us;" - Acts 15:7-8 (Acts 2:4, Acts 10:45-47).

"And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me: Simeon [Peter] hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name." - Acts 15:13-14 (Acts 10, Acts 11:1-18).

"And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up: that the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things." - Acts 15:15-17 (Amos 9:11-12).

How are the Gentiles called by the name of the Lord?

The Gentiles became called by the name of the Lord when they were baptized in the name of Jesus.

"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." - Acts 10:47-48 

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

What Must I Do To Be Saved? Acts 2:38

The Philippian Jailer

Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown into prison because they had cast a devil out of a girl that was being used for fortune-telling, ruining her owner’s ability to make money off from her. 

The jailer was ordered to make sure Paul and Silas didn’t escape.

Before Paul and Silas went to Philippi, God had given Paul a vision. (Philippi is a city in Macedonia.)

"And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; there stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us." - Acts 16:9

"And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them." - Acts 16:10 

While they were in prison, at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God. 

"And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed." - Acts 16:26

"And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here. 

“Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" - Acts 16:27-30 

"And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." - Acts 16:31 

BUT THAT IS NOT THE END OF THE STORY!!!

"And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house." - Acts 16:32

They were fulfilling the mission of the heavenly vision of preaching the gospel to the man of Macedonia!

After HEARING the word of the Lord, the jailor and his household OBEYED the word of the Lord! The Philippian jailor and all his house were BAPTIZED.

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

How were they baptized?

Paul baptized in the name of Jesus. (Acts 19:4-5)

Disciples ofJohn the Baptist are Rebaptized in the Name of Jesus

John the Baptist was sent by God to prepare the way for Him. 

Isaiah prophesied of John:

"The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God." - Isaiah 40:3 

"In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 

"For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." - Matthew 3:1-3 

John the Baptist’s baptism was the 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 came upon some disciples of John the Baptist.

These men had not heard that the Holy Ghost was being poured out. They had been baptized by John the Baptist’s baptism of repentance. They had not been baptized in the name of Jesus.

"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 

If you haven’t been baptized in the name of Jesus, be re-baptized, like they were in the Bible!