Priorities

 

Priorities: Water Baptism in the Name of Jesus and the Baptism of the Holy Ghost 

"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. And all the men were about twelve [in all]." - Acts 19:1-7

First question Paul asked, had they received the Holy Ghost? 

When Paul found out no, his NEXT question was, Unto what then were ye baptized?

When he found out they had not been baptized in the name of Jesus, baptizing them in the name of JESUS was the priority!

AFTER they were baptized in the name of Jesus, THEN he laid his hands on them and they received the Holy Ghost.

How did Paul know that they had received the Holy Ghost? 

It WASN’T because he laid his hands on them.

Paul knew the men experienced the infilling of the Holy Ghost, submitting FULLY to the power of the Spirit, because they had allowed God to even take control of their tongue, which resulted in their SPEAKING IN TONGUES as happened to the disciples on the Day of Pentecost!

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

Peter first preached the gospel on the Day of Pentecost to all those that gathered when they saw the disciples receiving the promised 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.

What is "repent"?

 

What is "repent"?

Repent means, “to change one's mind for better, heartily to amend with abhorrence of one's past sins” (Thayer's Greek Lexicon). It is from the Hebrew word "shuv," which means "to turn."

We can change our mind, deciding to live right in a moment. When we have repented, we not only have a changed mind about sin; the change can be seen in our actions.

We regret our sinful life and tell Jesus through prayer that we are sorry for our sins.

As we praise and thank Jesus for His mercy and His love, He can fill us with His Spirit. When we totally surrender to Him, He can change our words of praise and adoration into another language, speaking through us.

This is the sign that we have given Jesus full control, putting aside our pride and trusting Him totally. Tongues are another word for languages.

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

When we have repented, we can get baptized in the name of Jesus so that His blood can wash away our sins. By the name of Jesus in water baptism, we have remission [forgiveness] of sins. We can be water baptized before or after we receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. [Acts 10:44-48].

"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 have been baptized in the name of Jesus and filled with His Spirit, we have a new life and a clean slate!

Obeying the Gospel

 With God, it's not enough to believe what He says; God wants us to obey what He says.

God gave His people Commandments, but it wasn't enough for the people to believe the Commandments that they were the right thing to do. God expected the people to obey His Commandments.

In the New Testament, Jesus told His disciples to go into all the world and to preach the gospel. He then said, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved..."

Jesus didn't say he that believeth is saved; Jesus said he that believeth AND is baptized shall be saved. It is not enough that we believe the gospel, although that is necessary. We must also obey the gospel in order to be saved.

On the day of Pentecost, after Peter preached to the people the gospel that Jesus died for our sins, that He was buried, and on the third day He rose again, they asked, What shall we do? Peter then told them how to obey the gospel. 

Acts 2:37-38  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.  

They heard the gospel, they heard how to obey the gospel, and then they obeyed the gospel.

Acts 2:41 "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized..."

Paul preached in 1Corinthians 15:3-4 what the gospel is.

1Corinthians 15:3-4  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:

When Paul preached the gospel to them, they received the gospel, they stood in the gospel, and they were saved by the gospel... unless they believed in vain.

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

"In vain" means "without success or effort...without effect."

Thus, to believe in vain means to believe without effect. For example, if a person believes the gospel but they don't obey the gospel, they have believed in vain.

The gospel preached is successful when people not only believe it but they obey it by repenting of their sins, by being baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission/ forgiveness of their sins and by receiving the gift of the HolyGhost. We aren't saved if we don't obey the gospel. It is in vain if we believe the gospel, and then we don't obey it.

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

Temporary Pleasures

 If you are holding on to the “pleasures” of this life before you give your all to Jesus, remember, this life on earth is like a vapour: it is here for but a moment, then it’s gone.

"Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." - James 4:14

Giving into the lusts of our flesh (sinful desires) is a temporary “pleasure” that is not worth the price tag that comes with it. Are we thinking we will repent before we stand before God? And how can we say we love God, if we are indulging in the things of the world, and not pleasing the One that loves us and died for our sins?

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world [the things it offers you]. 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. [For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.] And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. [And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.]" - 1 John 2:15-17 KJV

"Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. [Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant.] For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. [Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit.] And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. [So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.]" - Galatians 6:7-9 KJV

"While it is said, Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. [Remember what it says: “Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled.”]" - Hebrews 3:15

Peter preached that Jesus had finally come as Messiah and Savior, and His own rejected Him. When Peter preached about Christ’s suffering, His crucifixion, and on the third day His resurrection, the people responded.

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

“Then Peter said unto them, Repent [repent of your sins and turn to God], and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins [forgiveness of your 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 [strongly urging], saying, Save yourselves from this untoward [perverse] generation. 

“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them [added to the church that day] about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine [teaching] and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." - Acts 2:37-42 KJV

Give your life to Jesus. Turn your back on the world. Stay full of the Holy Ghost. 

Life with Jesus in this life –  and eternal life with Jesus in heaven – is worth everything!

Jesus - Son of David

 Jesus, our heavenly Father, King of the Universe, robed (manifested) Himself in flesh. He revealed Himself as the chosen King that would sit on the throne of David forever, as He promised to David by the prophet Nathan.

"And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever." According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David." - 2 Samuel 7:16-17. 

Because God told David that his house, his kingdom, and his throne would be established forever, this meant the Messiah would be David's offspring.

When people called Jesus, “Son of David,” they were saying that Jesus is the Messiah.

The week before the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, as Jesus and His disciples were nearing Jerusalem, Jesus sent two disciples to a nearby village to bring Him a donkey and her colt. The disciples put their garments on them and Jesus sat on them. As Jesus approached Jerusalem, a very large crowd took their cloaks while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road for Jesus as He entered the city. The people before Him and following Him were shouting, Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the LORD! Hosanna in the highest! (Matthew 21:1-9) 

The word for Hosanna is of Hebrew origin meaning, 'save, I pray.' 

Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem was fulfillment of prophecy:

"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass." - Zechariah 9:9 KJV

Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem revealing his kingship was also fulfillment of a type and shadow of Solomon how he revealed his kingship.

Solomon was chosen by God to be the next king after David. 

"And of all my sons, (for the LORD hath given me many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel. 

"And he said unto me, Solomon thy son, he shall build my house and my courts: for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father." 1 Chronicles 28:5-6

When Adonijah, another son of David, attempted to crown himself king instead of Solomon, David revealed Solomon to be the chosen king of Israel by having him ride into Jerusalem on his personal mule. By this all Israel knew Solomon was the chosen king. (1 Kings 1:1-48).

As fulfillment of this type and shadow, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, the people before Him and following Him were shouting Hosanna to the Son of David, the chosen King Messiah. 

Jesus the King of the Universe and Son of David, God manifest in flesh and Savior of the world. His throne and His kingdom are forever.

The Complete Experience of the Gospel

The Complete Experience of the Gospel as in the Day of Pentecost Acts 2:38

Repentance is death to sin

Water baptism in Jesus name is burial of old nature.

Holy Ghost infilling is resurrection to new life

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:" - 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 KJV

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?  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: 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. For he that is dead is freed from sin." - Romans 6:1-7 KJV

"In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead." - Colossians 2:11-12 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." - Acts 2:38

From Search for Truth Bible Study

 

The Truth Shall Make You Free

 

"Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:31-32 

What is the truth that makes us free? And what are we made free from?

We are made free from sin.

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

The truth that makes us free from sin is the gospel of Jesus. He is the way, the truth, and the life. We are made free when we believe and obey the gospel, “that from of doctrine which was delivered you.”

"In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise," - Ephesians 1:13 

The gospel is that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day. (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). We repent of our sins, are baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins, and receive His holy Spirit of promise, the Holy Ghost. (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 

"But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life." - Romans 6:22

What about John 3:16?

 What is John 3:16 and what is the rest of the story?

"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 

Many people use this verse as their doctrine for salvation. They say, ‘If you believe in Jesus, you will not perish but have everlasting life. Simply believe.’

What a lot of people do not realize is, Jesus is speaking here to Nicodemus. Jesus had already told Nicodemus “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3). 

Just a few verses before John 3:16 Jesus further told Nicodemus "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." - John 3:5 

We are born of water when we are baptized with water in the name of Jesus. We are born of the Spirit when we are baptized with His Spirit.

Jesus said we need to BELIEVE the gospel AND OBEY the gospel by baptism to be saved. 

"And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." - Mark 16:15 

"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." - Mark 16:16 

On the Day of Pentecost when the church began, Peter preached the gospel, then how to obey the gospel by being  born of water and of the Spirit. 

"Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it." - Acts 2:23-24 

"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?" - Acts 2:37 

"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 

"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 2:41-42

Pray

 We are blessed with our relationship with our Heavenly Father in that He wants to hear from us. (Matthew 7:11).

"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:" - Matthew 7:7 KJV

We find that He not only wants to hear from us with our praise and worship, but Jesus is also interested in answering our prayers.

We pray for healing, salvation, deliverance, and help in all situations. 

We can also pray for God to give dreams and visions of who He is that will shake people up, like God did with Saul of Tarsus, impacting those that are persecuting believers. 

God can go behind closed doors, behind closed countries, into the lives of foreign leaders, religious leaders, into prisons, hospitals, drug dens, places of human trafficking, anywhere in this world, there is no limit where God can go.

"The Lord is… not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." - 2 Peter 3:9 KJV 

Just as God can harden hearts as He did with Pharoah (Exodus 4:21), He can give a heart to know Him, as He did with Israel.

"And I will give them an heart to know me, that I am the LORD: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God..." - Jeremiah 24:7 KJV

When we make requests, we ask according to His will.

"And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:" - 1 John 5:14 KJV

We can also pray in the Spirit. (Praying speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives us the utterance Acts 2:4, Ephesians 6:18, Romans 8:26).

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

What can wash away my sin?

 

What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

"For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul." - Leviticus 17:11 

"And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission [forgiveness]." - Hebrews 9:22

For a time, God accepted animal sacrifices.

"For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect... But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins." - Hebrews 10:1, 3-4 

Only Holy God revealed in a body of sinless flesh could provide a sacrifice to take away our sins. (Hebrews 10:10, Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 9:28, 1Peter 2:22, 1John 3:5).

"For since by man came death [Adam], by man came also the resurrection of the dead [Jesus]. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive." - 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 

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

The blood of Jesus for atonement and remission of sins is applied through His name Jesus in water baptism.

He supplied it [His blood]. We must apply it [His blood].

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

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

"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 

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

The Kingdom of God is Within You

 

“The Kingdom of God is Within You”

When Jesus was explaining to Nicodemus about the kingdom of God and being born of the Spirit, He made a comparison to the wind.

John 3:8 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.

Jesus said that you cannot tell when the Spirit comes and where it goes, except by the sound that you hear.

Acts 2:1-4 ¶And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

It does not say there was a wind; it says there came a SOUND from heaven AS of a rushing mighty wind. Just as Jesus said, they could not tell where the Spirit came from or where it went, but they heard the sound – they were all speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. So is every one that is born of the Spirit.

Luke 17:20-21 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, 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

The kingdom of God is within us when we are filled with the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of God.

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

On the Day of Pentecost, Peter preached how we can receive 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.

The Kingdom of God

 The Kingdom of God

Matthew 6:9 Jesus said, "After this manner therefore pray ye..."

Matthew 6:10 "...Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."

What is God’s kingdom?

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

Jesus told Peter,

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

Peter preached the keys of the kingdom of heaven on the day of Pentecost.

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

Jesus had said we must be born of water and of the Spirit to enter into the kingdom of God. 

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.

Jesus gave Peter the keys for how to enter the kingdom of God by water and Spirit. 

Peter revealed we are born of water by water baptism in the name of Jesus.

Peter revealed we are born of the Spirit by being filled with the Spirit.

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

Baptism - Compare the Difference!

 

A Willing Vessel for the Lord

A Willing Vessel for the Lord 

Those that have obeyed the gospel – have repented of their sins, are baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins, and are filled with the Holy Ghost – have offered themselves as a willing vessel for the Lord.

To be used by God, we must keep our mind open to hear His voice and must stay full of His Spirit so we may have the courage and the boldness to do His will. Ananias was such a vessel.

"And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. 

“And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. 

“Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: and here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. 

“But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: for I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. 

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. 

“And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized." - Acts 9:10-18 

If we stay full of His Spirit and listen and courageously obey His voice, Jesus can do great things through us!

Praying in the Holy Ghost

 

The Bible says,

"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 6:12 KJV

The Bible then says,

"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 KJV

Our defense against the “fiery darts of the wicked” is “the shield of faith.”

"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

How do we get this “shield of faith”?

 We get the shield of faith to quench the fiery darts of the wicked by praying in the Holy Ghost.

The Bible says, 

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

Two verses after “taking the shield of faith,” the Bible also says,

"And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…" - Ephesians 6:17-18 KJV

How do we pray in the Spirit / pray in the Holy Ghost?

We pray in the Spirit, pray in the Holy Ghost the same way we received the Holy Ghost: we pray speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives the utterance.

"And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." - Acts 2:4 KJV (Acts 10:45-46, Acts 19:6, 1Corinthians 14:18).

If you are feeling attacked by the fiery darts of the wicked, take a moment out and pray in the Holy Ghost. You will find joy and peace that passeth understanding. 

"And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus [Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus]." - Philippians 4:7 KJV

The Arm of the Lord

 

What is the arm of the Lord?

God is a Spirit. The “arm of the Lord” is a metaphor for God’s power and strength. The "arm of the Lord"  saves, delivers, and redeems. 

[Capital letters added in verses:]

"Wherefore say unto the children of Israel, I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will redeem you with a STRETCHED OUT ARM, and with great judgments:" - Exodus 6:6 (Also: Duteronomy 26:8, Psalm 77:15).

While the arm of the Lord was the power of God to save and redeem His people from the bondage of Egypt, there was the much greater need for all humanity to be redeemed from the bondage of sin and death.

"And he saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore HIS ARM brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him." - Isaiah 59:1

His arm that saved and delivered His people from physical bondage in Egypt, defeating their enemies, was now going to save and deliver the souls of all humanity from the spiritual bondage of sin, defeating the devil.

"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

Isaiah spoke of the arm of the Lord, foretelling of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection in Isaiah 53.

"Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?" - Isaiah 53:1 

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." - Isaiah 53:5 

"The LORD hath made bare HIS HOLY ARM in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God." - Isaiah 52:10

John recognized that Jesus is the arm of the Lord.

"But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: that the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?" - John 12:37-38

Acts 2:38

 

Baptism is Faith in Action

 "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

"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

"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

Jesus Commands His Disciples, Peter Obeys His Command

 Non

Salvation by the Gospel

 

A Word of Encouragement and Instruction

 A word of encouragement and instruction

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. - 

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; - Ephesians 6:10-18

The Power of the Holy Ghost

 

The Plan of Salvation

 The Plan of Salvation 

"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

Disciples of John the Baptist

 

There were twelve men in Ephesus that had been disciples of John the Baptist. They were met by Paul the Apostle. They had heard of the baptism of the Holy Ghost from John the Baptist, but had not heard that the Holy Ghost was already being poured out. (Mark 1:7-8) 

When they heard Paul preach Christ, they were RE-BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF JESUS. They then received the gift of the Holy Ghost, SPEAKING IN TONGUES AS THE SPIRIT GAVE THEM UTTERANCE. This is another place in the Bible where it is recorded that when people receive the Holy Ghost they speak with tongues. (Acts 2:4, Acts 10:45-46, Acts 19:6). This is also a place in the Bible where Paul is baptizing.

"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 [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. 

“And all the men were about twelve." - Acts 19:1-7 [There were about 12 men]

What is the gospel?

 What is the gospel?

It is the Good News that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose from the dead on the third day, so that we could turn from our sinful way, bury our sinful nature by baptism in the name of Jesus, and arise to walk with Jesus with a new life, filled with His Spirit!

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:" - 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 

We are saved by the gospel – the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus – if we OBEY the gospel.

"Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." - Matthew 16:24 

We deny ourselves by repenting of our sins. We take up our cross by crucifying our sinful nature. We follow Jesus in His burial by being water baptized in the name of Jesus. We follow His resurrection when we are filled with His Spirit and walk in a new life.

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?  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 6:1-4

Peter preached the gospel on the Day of Pentecost, then how to obey the gospel.

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

I AM

 

"Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. 

“Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? [Abraham lived approximately 2000 years earlier.]  

“Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. 

“Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by." - John 8:56-59 KJV

Why did the Jews take up stones to cast at Jesus? 

Because they understood that Jesus was letting them know He is God, the “I AM.”

"And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you." - Exodus 3:14 KJV

The World

 

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him." - 1 John 2:15 KJV (James 4:4).

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

What is the world?

"For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world." - 1 John 2:16 KJV

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

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

The woman saw that the tree was good for food – lust of the flesh, and that it was pleasant to the eyes – lust of the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise – the pride of life. Even though that was the only tree they were not to eat of…

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

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

It is the devil that is “he that is in the world.” He is “the god of this world.” He blinds the minds of those that believe not, knowing that through the gospel we can overcome the world and once again have communion with God and eternal life. By the gospel, we can have God in us.

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

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

It is the good news (the great news!!!) that God robed Himself in flesh to dwell among humanity and die in our place for our sins, that He was buried, and that on the third day He rose again. (1Corinthians 15:1-4).

It is the good news (the great news!!!) that if a person will repent of their sins, be baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission (forgiveness) of their sins, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (the Spirit of Jesus in them), they will be saved. (Matthew 16:24-26, Galatians 6:14, Romans 6:1-5, Acts 2:38).

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

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

When we are born of God by obeying the gospel (John 1:12-13, John 3:5, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, Romans 6:1-13, Acts 2:38), we have the power of God within us to overcome the world and anything the devil throws at us. (Acts 1:8).

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

One God

 

"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." - John 1:10-13 

The Father, creator of the universe, walked among His people. He came manifest in flesh so He could die for our sins and save us. He is our Savior. He came in His name of salvation, JESUS (“LORD Salvation”). (Exodus 15:2, Isaiah 43:11, Luke 2:11, Titus 2:13).

"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 

He taught that we must be born of water and of the Spirit to enter His kingdom. He gave the keys to His kingdom to His disciple Peter. On the Day of Pentecost, Peter preached the keys to 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 

On that day, His Spirit filled His people, as He promised. (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:4-5, Acts 2:33). 

He gave us His Spirit so we could once again be one with Him. By our obedience to the gospel, we can claim His promise and receive the gift of His Spirit within us.

Jesus is our Father. His Spirit gives us the power to overcome sin, and the power to be witnesses unto the world.

"But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you." - Matthew 10:19-20 KJV

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

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. (2 Corinthians 5:19).

Through faith by believing the gospel, we are baptized in the name of Jesus, applying His blood to our life for the remission [forgiveness] of our sins. (Mark 16:15-16, 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.