Thank you brother ChrisE, I was afraid that I did understand you, as you wrote about this in your comments.
Re: 1 Corinthians 1:17. I believe that Paul "was not sent to baptize", as his calling & ministry was specifically to the preaching of the Gospel & for the establishing of assemblies of believers particularly among the Gentiles, to whom he was called. However, he did baptize Crispus ( 1 Corinthians 1:14, Acts 18:8) & Gaius ( Romans 16:23), & others, such as the household of Stephanus ( 1 Corinthians 1:16), though this seemed not to be the thrust of his ministry. So the fact that he did baptize (& I doubt if we could interpret the word to be 'baptize with the Spirit'), it must prove that water baptism was still performed as prescribed by the Lord in Matthew 28:19. How else would you read this?
I can understand where Ephesians 4:5 & 1 Corinthians 12:13 (as examples given by you) refer to baptism by the Spirit, however, the other references ( Colossians 2:12; Galatians 3:27; & Romans 6:3-4) clearly imply that believers were baptized in water. So yes, I see two baptisms: one for identification & the other, for bringing into the Body of Christ & infilling.
In your mind, would Scriptures such as Matthew 28:18; Acts 8:13; Acts 8:36; Acts 9:18; Acts 10:47,48; Acts 16:15; Acts 16:33; Acts 18:8; Acts 19:5; & Acts 22:16, be speaking of Spirit baptism? I ask, as I've attempted with great difficulty to reinterpret those verses to mean anything other than immersion in water. Yes, there is the ONE Baptism that is important, that from the Spirit, yet the Scripture is replete with examples of water baptism following repentance as an act of identification. Now if I could find a verse to show the annulment of it, I would be forced to re-think this matter. Thank you for sharing those thoughts brother.
GRACE_ambassador {ChrisE} - In Reply - 3 years ago
Precious brother Chris said: "I perceive that from your explanation of baptism history & its connection to the Baptism of John, that you also believe that today's water baptism (as prescribed by our Lord in Matthew 28:19,20) has lost its currency - that baptism by the Holy Spirit is what has been preached & given since the Church formed.
I believe there is NO water ritual {which was Previously FOR Israel}, for The Body Of CHRIST, currently, for Today - Summed Up:
Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION, Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4) ( 1 Corinthians 12:13)
Thus, it is impossible to ADD water, equalling TWO baptismS today, when God ONLY has
ONE! Correct?
I have an Expanded "study" on God's ONE Baptism, for us, The Body Of CHRIST, Today, IF you wish to consider it, also?...
Precious brother Chris, please Be RICHLY Encouraged!
John in the dispensation of LAW spoke of "one" who is to come, whose shoe lacthet he is unworthy to unloose. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost ,and fire. When Christ came he ALLOWED John to BAPTIZE Him, showing the need for REPENTANCE. John was preaching and also baptizing UNTO repentance.
Christ "the promised redeemer" commissioned that this be done in his name. By now baptizing in His name, He fulfilled it in the LAW which was the schoolmaster that could not save, BUT, through his name "Jesus" REMISSION (removal) of sins is now given.
There are TWO dispensations, LAW and GRACE. Grace abounds. He came to FULFILL the LAW and SHOW us that THROUGH HIM -GREATER things WILL and ONLY can be done (GRACE). This He did and showed his disciples(followers of Christ). (KJV Acts 2:38) Repent and be baptized..; Galatians 3:26-27.
Please note that we are now living in the dispensation of Grace. For this Christ came to set things in order and give unto men the PLAN of SALVATION
Gerald Your scripture reference was given long before the deity of Christ was questioned and the context of what Paul wrote was explaining who he received the gospel from they were not believing what he was saying. He taught them the Gospel and in Galatians 3:1 Who hath hindered you that you should not obey the truth. That's the context.
GRACE_ambassador {ChrisE} - In Reply - 3 years ago
Clayton, Precious friend. Two things concerning "baptized to be saved":
(1) Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!
The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =
A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6)
+
B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16)
Prophecy/Law
Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things That Differ!:
(2) Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION,
Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!!
Thus, This ONE Baptism Is Performed, By God, Today, Under God's GRACE/MYSTERY Program, when the believer "confesses Jesus as Lord and Savior and believes that He died and rose again, and God saves them" in the twinkling of an eye.
So, "water baptism" Is Scriptural, But Dispensationally, "was for the Previous Law/Prophecy Program" of God, For ISRAEL!
Conclusion, water baptism is Scriptural, but, TODAY, is UNdispensational! Amen?
Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!
Ephesians 1:13-14. 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,
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
This is a deep saying here!
First we heard the Gospel of our salvation.
We believed it.
And right away we were SEALED with the Holyspirit of promise.
Which is the EARNEST/"DOWN PAYMENT" of our inheritance.
UNTIL the redemption of the PURCHASED POSSESSION!!! Unto the praise of his glory.
Let's look into this, First of all we were sealed with the Holyspirit of promise! "Eternal security "
We are sealed "WITH" the Holyspirit of promise, Which is the Down-payment of our inheritance. UNTIL the redemption of the PURCHASED possession.
Jesus prayed in Mathew 26:39-45. three times if there be any other way take this cup from him. "And the Father never relieved him from this burden, So the price of this redemption, and the purchased possession was the highest of value!!
And It was the blood of Christ that bought us. HE WILL REDEEM HIS PURCHASE. You have been SEALED "Providing that in your heart you truly believed " This puts
John 10:28. in mind.
NOTE:
Acts 20:28. 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.
Here's What we were redeemed from:
Galatians 3:13. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
The law brought death, Paul said when the law came he died. There is nothing to add to what Christ paid to redeem us, If so God would have answered his prayer.
And "IF" you have you have been SEALED you "ARE" barring fruit because you have been given the Holyspirit.
Brother Bill, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.
John 6:63 ....the words that I speak unto you, THEY ARE SPIRIT
1 Corinthians 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto to you SPIRITUAL, but as unto CARNAL ....
Galatians 3:28 ....there is neither male or female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 5:32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the CHURCH.
Christ is the husband, we are the WOMAN (spiritually speaking), we are the Church (spiritually speaking). We are to KEEP SILENT before our husband and to keep SILENT in the CHURCH.
1 John 2:27 But the anointing which you (the woman) have received of him (your husband) abideth in you (the woman), and you (the woman) need not that any man teach you (the woman): but as the same anointing (your husband) teacheth you (the woman) all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it (your husband) hath taught you (the woman), ye (the woman) shall abide in him (your husband) (and you shall become one flesh).
1 Timothy 2:14 And Adam (Christ, spiritually speaking) was not deceived, but the WOMAN (the CHURCH, spiritually speaking) bring deceived was in the transgression.
1 Timothy 2:15 Notwithstanding she (the woman, the church) shall be saved in childbearing ....
Revelation 12:2 And she (the woman, the church) being with CHILD cried, travailing in birth, and pained to BE DELIVERED.
Discernment and prayer should be used before automatically assuming every verse in the Bible applies to us. There were many specific instructions to people in certain circumstances in certain times, in certain places. For example: if I read Jonah 3:2 it says go to Ninevah- does that me I myself must go to Ninevah right now? Or do you think this is historical for our benefit to see how God instructed Jonah to go there?
How about Genesis 6:14. If I read that, does that automatically I need to build an ark? Did God say that to me and only to me?
Now, let's go back to your Tobit verse- does that truly mean what you say it means? Did you pray and ask God about it and see any confirmation from Him?
What about other followers of God in the Bible who had mixed race spouses? I personally do not believe your interpretation applies as I do not see evidence for it. A current political movement is aimed at dividing people and making people feel entitled. It is deceptive and evil and I believe it's from satan and not God, based on the fruit and lies of this movement. I believe God over man. I will follow God over man and He said this: Galatians 3:28. God bless...
Jesse said: "a non-believer can become a believer and still not be forgiven. A person has to be born of God's Spirit in order to be forgiven and saved. Belief is important, but belief itself does not bring salvation. Receiving Jesus Christ and being born of His Spirit is what saves a person. With that salvation comes forgiveness."? According To Plain/Clear Scriptures?:
Precious friend, then I must Misunderstand: "Repent, and Believe The Gospel Of The GRACE Of God"? = "Believe On CHRIST, His Death, Burial, and Resurrection, by GRACE Through faith {BELIEF, trust}." ( 1 Corinthians 15:3-4) ( Ephesians 2:5-9)?
I must Misunderstand "trusting CHRIST" In ( Ephesians 1:12)? Also:
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of The LORD, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and BELIEF of The Truth:" ( 2 Thessalonians 2:13)?
"Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that BELIEVE..." ( Romans 3:22)? compare ( Romans 4:11) ( Romans 4:24) ( 1 Corinthians 1:21) ( Galatians 3:22) ( Ephesians 1:19) ( Philippians 1:29) ( 1 Thessalonians 1:7) ( 1 Thessalonians 2:13) ( 1 Thessalonians 4:14) ( 2 Thessalonians 1:10)
Finally IF I BELIEVE, "but sins are NOT forgiven," how is it that I HAVE Life Everlasting, According To ALL The above Plain And Clear Scriptures About "BELIEF"?:
"Howbeit for this cause I obtained MERCY, that in me first JESUS CHRIST might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter BELIEVE ON HIM to Life Everlasting." ( 1 Timothy 1:16)?
Upon my BELIEF Of Truth, did not The Holy Spirit Baptize ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) me Into The Body Of CHRIST, God "forgiving my sins," in the twinkling of an eye?
Now, IF you are referring to "water baptism for the remission of sins" that is altogether
Another Different Bible study we could pursue, IF you wish...
Satan is the prince of this world and The world also hate Jesus.
Here's why the world hated Jesus.
This persecution Started in Genesis and on through us today. Genesis 3:15.
John 7:7. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, BECAUSE I TESTIFY OF IT, THAT THE WORKS THEREOF ARE EVIL
And the world presently hates Jesus disciples as well as any people who has a role in God's redemption program.
The Lord called out Abraham and blessed him and Made an unconditional covenant with him. And he would be the Father of many nations Genesis 17:4-13.
Galatians 4:28. Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
Galatians 3:28-29. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
God is not done with Israel as some think,
And the Church did not replace Israel.
They play a role in the future.
Acts 15:14-16. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
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:
This is a spiritual warfare!!
That's the short of it. Perhaps someone can go into more detail.
Mark, Precious friend, there is NO water baptism, today, Under God's GRACE. ie:
Does God Require water baptism, today? IF yes, then, we have to find out WHICH of the Many Various "denominational traditions" is the Correct one, Correct?
However, IF God Says "NO," as I believe All Scripture Shows below, then "yes" is OUT of the question, yes?:
"Summary study" on this Important Issue:
Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!
The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =
A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6)
+
B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16)
Prophecy/Law
Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things That Differ!:
Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION,
Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Conclusion: God's ONE Baptism Today? = ONE OR, EQUALS TWO?
Is it not Possible That God's Answer Of "No water baptism, for us Today," Under HIS Pure GRACE, absolutely vanquishes the {Many Severely DIVIDED denominations?} Confusion into oblivion!? Also, "...we walk By FAITH, Not by sight..." ( 2 Corinthians 5:7) Amen?
Mark, Precious friend, Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!
Gerald, my Precious friend, I'll take your question "2: How should we be baptized?" Better
is to first ask: Does God Require water baptism, today? IF yes, then find out "how."
IF not, then no need to find that out, Correct? Here is my "Summary study" on this Important Issue:
Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!
The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =
A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli"priesthood!" ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6)
+
B) WITHThe Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16) Prophecy/Law
Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things ThatDiffer!:
Mystery/GRACE! =our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul WasNot Sent to water baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION,Spiritually Identifying members Into The ONE Body Of CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4) ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) MYSTERY/GRACE! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Conclusion: God's ONE Baptism Today? = ONEOR, EQUALS TWO?
Is it not Possible That God'sAnswer Of "No water baptism, for us Today," Under HIS Pure GRACE, absolutely "Solves" theMany Severely DIVIDED denominations' Confusion!?
Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!
Brother Earl. I've never thought that "we are Christ's garments". I've always understood that Christ is our garment. Galatians 3:27; Romans 13:14. And that we are "in Christ": Romans 8:1; Romans 12:5; 2 Corinthians 5:17. And "Christ in us": Colossians 1:27; 2 Corinthians 13:5. Any further thoughts?
Romans 2:28-29. For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
Galatians 3:26-29. For ye are all the CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
THERE IS NEITHER JEW NOR GREEK, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
AND IF YE BE CHRIST'S, THEN ARE YE ABRAHAM'S SEED, and heirs according to the promise.
We often like to look at salvation as our sins forgiven, and rightfully so. But it may be better understood and appreciated if we look at it as our sins being payed for by the shed blood on the cross. "The sacrificial lamb" life for life!
THE GIFT OF LIFE IS FREE BECAUSE THE DEBT WAS PAID WITH THE CRUCIFIXION OF OUR LORD.
Galatians 3:19-29. Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Now how do live our life?
ROM 6.
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.
Jesus was a middle eastern Jew who walked a lot outside in the sun. Some groups WANT Jesus to be a different skin color though and work very hard to find verses that support their desired skin tone. I don't believe the motivations behind this are sound and I think if Jesus was here in front of us He would condemn that and question their motives. It's as if people are fighting over this trying to score points for their own 'team'. That's opposite of what Jesus taught. Galatians 3:28 God bless...
Thank you for your response. Yes, we both agree that we must obey God's commandments and remain faithful until death to inherit the blessings. Where we don't, perhaps, see eye to eye is what are the commandments of God today.
Do you keep God's commandments by getting circumcised as per Leviticus 12:3?
Do you keep God's commandments and dwell in booths for seven days every year as per Leviticus 23:42?
Do you make fringes on the border of your garments as per God's commandment at Numbers 15:38?
Do you go up to Jerusalem three times a year as per God's commandment at Exodus 23:17?
If you answer no, it seems to me that you don't, after all, obey God's commandments. Jesus and the Apostle John did not say, "If you obey the 10 commandments", but rather, "If you obey the commandments" (all the commandments). The question arises, though, which commandments?
I would suggest the commandments of the New Covenant (or Testament) found in the portion of our Bibles called the New Testament.
As for Matthew 5:17-18, please note one important point - it says till all be fulfilled. The purpose of the law was fulfilled when Christ offered up his perfect life in sacrifice. Then, it was done away with. Notice:
Galatians 3:23-25 "But before faith came, we were kept under the law (a schoolmaster), shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore THE LAW WAS our SCHOOLMASTER to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But AFTER that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster (the law).
That's why Jesus also said at the parallel account of Matthew 5:17-18 found at Luke 16:16.
Luke 16:16 "The LAW and the prophets WERE UNTIL JOHN: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it."
Then, Jesus set up the New Covenant.
Luke 22:20 "Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you."
Thank you brother Dan for providing the Scripture: Romans 11:13-16. I understand that you see from these verses that both the "Israelites & Gentiles are subject to the same 10 commandments".
If we read the whole passage, we see Paul referring to the "election of grace" (v 5), whereby those Jews, with blinded eyes, deaf ears, & a spirit of slumber, failed to take hold of God's Grace & rested on their works (which by inference is to the Law of Works) to obtain salvation. And through their fall & removal from the olive tree, those of believing Israel, including believing Gentiles were grafted into that natural tree, which represents those whom the Lord regards as His Own (by election), those who have taken hold of God's Grace in salvation.
You're seeing this grafting in of the Gentiles with the believing Jews as a sanction from God that all be brought under the Law or to obey it. I see the opposite: I see the election of Grace at work, whereby those who were cut out from the tree because of their reliance on the Law to save them, have given up their privileged position to those who have not relied upon the Law to save them, but have submitted themselves to the Grace of God for His salvation.
And if our salvation (for both Jew & Gentile) is dependent on God's Grace, then it is no more of works. As Paul said in the same chapter, verse 6: "And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work." And this work that he was referring to was Israel's dependence of the working (fulfilling) of the Law towards their salvation. And to this, God's Grace was in opposition, for salvation cannot come by appealing to & relying upon the Law of Works. If salvation then is by Grace alone (which I know you believe), why refer to a Law that only leads to death when the new Law of the life-giving Spirit in us sets us free from the Law of sin & death? And Galatians 3:21.
Thank you Michael for that clear & concise response. If the foundations of biblical teaching or doctrine are not properly laid, the building cracks will develop & bring destruction. I find that many Christians, whether because of Church teaching or from their own surmisings, look at Scriptures such as John 14:15 & immediately apply the obedience to the Law for all people, that which was given only to Israel.
To do so, several things have to be overlooked or rejected: to whom was God speaking in the OT & to whom was Jesus speaking prior to His crucifixion? Only to Israel, none else. Gentiles weren't even in the picture pertaining to the Law & never have been. What was the reason for giving the Law? God's code of conduct (spiritual, moral & social) for His people, His Mark of separation from the heathen - Leviticus 26:46, (as also with circumcision: Genesis 17:10), & to demonstrate to Israel a godly standard that as sinners they could never fully obey ( Galatians 3:21-26).
But then we get verses such as Matthew 5:17-19 which are often used to support the eternal nature & applicability of the Law to all people. To those under the Law, indeed, the Law is current & will be used against them. To those who have escaped the curse of the Law & have found new life in Christ, have learned that Christ has indeed fulfilled all the Law, forever abrogating it & thru His Death ushered in a new & better Covenant ( Hebrews 8:6-13).
What then do we do with Scriptures (e.g. 1 John 5:2,3) that say we must obey God's commandments? Are John & others pointing the believer back to the letter of the Law that kills or rather to the Spirit Who gives life ( 2 Corinthians 3:6)? It is the Spirit's Law in our hearts that frees us from the Law of sin & death ( Romans 8:2). To give consent to both, that which is opposed to each other, weakens (even negates) the power of the New Covenant through Christ's Blood & the keeping of the Sabbath ever stands as a centrepiece to
Thank you Michael for that clear & concise response. If the foundations of biblical teaching or doctrine are not properly laid, the building cracks will develop & bring destruction. I find that many Christians, whether because of Church teaching or from their own surmisings, look at Scriptures such as John 14:15 & immediately apply the obedience to the Law for all people, that which was given only to Israel.
To do so, several things have to be overlooked or rejected: to whom was God speaking in the OT & to whom was Jesus speaking prior to His crucifixion? Only to Israel, none else. Gentiles weren't even in the picture pertaining to the Law & never have been. What was the reason for giving the Law? God's code of conduct (spiritual, moral & social) for His people, His Mark of separation from the heathen - Leviticus 26:46, (as also with circumcision: Genesis 17:10), & to demonstrate to Israel a godly standard that as sinners they could never fully obey ( Galatians 3:21-26).
But then we get verses such as Matthew 5:17-19 which are often used to support the eternal nature & applicability of the Law to all people. To those under the Law, indeed, the Law is current & will be used against them. To those who have escaped the curse of the Law & have found new life in Christ, have learned that Christ has indeed fulfilled all the Law, forever abrogating it & thru His Death ushered in a new & better Covenant ( Hebrews 8:6-13).
What then do we do with Scriptures (e.g. 1 John 5:2,3) that say we must obey God's commandments? Are John & others pointing the believer back to the letter of the Law that kills or rather to the Spirit Who gives life ( 2 Corinthians 3:6)? It is the Spirit's Law in our hearts that frees us from the Law of sin & death ( Romans 8:2). To give consent to both, that which is opposed to each other, weakens (even negates) the power of the New Covenant through Christ's Blood & the keeping of the Sabbath ever stands as a centrepiece to cause both error & division.
Jannelle, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.
Galatians 3:8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith (CHRIST IS OUR FAITH), preached before the GOSPEL unto Abraham, saying in thee shall all these nations be blessed.
Hebrews 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM: but the word (CHRIST) preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them (CHRIST IN THEM) that heard it.
The GOSPEL IS:
2 Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest (Christ in the flesh) by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath ABOLISHED DEATH, and hath brought LIFE and IMMORTALITY to light through the gospel.
1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil (alive to the flesh), for the devil sinneth from the beginning, For this purpose (gospel) the Son of Man was MANIFESTED, that he might destroy THE WORKS OF THE DEVIL.
This is the GOSPEL: You (seed of flesh) died on the cross with Christ and you (seed of Spirit) was RAISED with HIM.
The saints of old received this promise also at HIS RESURRECTION
Hebrews 11:39 And these all, having received a good report through faith, received not the promise (victory over sin and death) (CHRIST IN US):
Hebrews 11:49 God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect (accomplished at Christ death and resurrection).
Matthew 27:52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,
Matthew 27:53 And came out of the graves at HIS RESURRECTION, and went into the holy city (new Jerusalem), and appeared to many.
If you are thinking we are grafted in by keeping the Law you are mistaking, you are missing the point in Romans 11.
Romans 11:20. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
You are expecting to be grafted into a branch that has been broken off!
I'm not sure if you are implying salvation comes by keeping the 10 commandments, if you are the bible don't state that.
Galatians 3:16-26. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
We're not grafted into Israel. Israel is a branch. We're grafted into the vine to bare fruit.
I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. John 15:1.
Acts 2:38 is the first Christian message ever preached and it needs to be obeyed.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Galatians 3:27-29 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:
Romans 6:1-5 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. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
Colossians 2:11-14 KJV
Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
Part 1 some scriptures concerning the Grace of God on Acts 1 - 3 years ago
"But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by washing of regeneration of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; that being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to eternal life" Titus 3:4-7
"In keeping of them is great reward" Psalms 19:11
"Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just and good" Romans 7:12
"the law is spiritual" Romans 7:14
"Sin is the transgression of the law" 1 John 3:4
"Cursed is everyone that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them" Galatians 3:10
"The soul that sinneth, it shall die" Ezekiel 18:14
"For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse" Galatians 3:10
"weak through the flesh" Romans 8:3
"Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight" Romans 3:20
"having no hope, and without God in the world" Ephesians 2:12
"But we are all as an unclean thing, and all of our righteousness are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away" Isaiah 64:6
"We have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; as it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: there is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one...There is no fear of God before there eyes...For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" Romans 3:9-23
"the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness" Romans 1:18
"Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off" Romans 11:22
The word (preach) means teach. There were 13 apostles, there were 70 sent by Jesus not one woman. There are many great women then and now. The word said a woman is not to teach or have authority over the man. That can't be changed by opinion. It (THE WORD) don't say they can't worship, sing, wash Jesus feet, teach the young woman, and help their husband.
Re: 1 Corinthians 1:17. I believe that Paul "was not sent to baptize", as his calling & ministry was specifically to the preaching of the Gospel & for the establishing of assemblies of believers particularly among the Gentiles, to whom he was called. However, he did baptize Crispus ( 1 Corinthians 1:14, Acts 18:8) & Gaius ( Romans 16:23), & others, such as the household of Stephanus ( 1 Corinthians 1:16), though this seemed not to be the thrust of his ministry. So the fact that he did baptize (& I doubt if we could interpret the word to be 'baptize with the Spirit'), it must prove that water baptism was still performed as prescribed by the Lord in Matthew 28:19. How else would you read this?
I can understand where Ephesians 4:5 & 1 Corinthians 12:13 (as examples given by you) refer to baptism by the Spirit, however, the other references ( Colossians 2:12; Galatians 3:27; & Romans 6:3-4) clearly imply that believers were baptized in water. So yes, I see two baptisms: one for identification & the other, for bringing into the Body of Christ & infilling.
In your mind, would Scriptures such as Matthew 28:18; Acts 8:13; Acts 8:36; Acts 9:18; Acts 10:47,48; Acts 16:15; Acts 16:33; Acts 18:8; Acts 19:5; & Acts 22:16, be speaking of Spirit baptism? I ask, as I've attempted with great difficulty to reinterpret those verses to mean anything other than immersion in water. Yes, there is the ONE Baptism that is important, that from the Spirit, yet the Scripture is replete with examples of water baptism following repentance as an act of identification. Now if I could find a verse to show the annulment of it, I would be forced to re-think this matter. Thank you for sharing those thoughts brother.
I believe there is NO water ritual {which was Previously FOR Israel}, for The Body Of CHRIST, currently, for Today - Summed Up:
Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION, Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4) ( 1 Corinthians 12:13)
Thus, it is impossible to ADD water, equalling TWO baptismS today, when God ONLY has
ONE! Correct?
I have an Expanded "study" on God's ONE Baptism, for us, The Body Of CHRIST, Today, IF you wish to consider it, also?...
Precious brother Chris, please Be RICHLY Encouraged!
ChrisE
Christ "the promised redeemer" commissioned that this be done in his name. By now baptizing in His name, He fulfilled it in the LAW which was the schoolmaster that could not save, BUT, through his name "Jesus" REMISSION (removal) of sins is now given.
There are TWO dispensations, LAW and GRACE. Grace abounds. He came to FULFILL the LAW and SHOW us that THROUGH HIM -GREATER things WILL and ONLY can be done (GRACE). This He did and showed his disciples(followers of Christ). (KJV Acts 2:38) Repent and be baptized..; Galatians 3:26-27.
Please note that we are now living in the dispensation of Grace. For this Christ came to set things in order and give unto men the PLAN of SALVATION
(1) Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!
The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =
A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6)
+
B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16)
Prophecy/Law
Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things That Differ!:
(2) Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION,
Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!!
( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4)
( 1 Corinthians 12:13)
-------------------------------
Thus, This ONE Baptism Is Performed, By God, Today, Under God's GRACE/MYSTERY Program, when the believer "confesses Jesus as Lord and Savior and believes that He died and rose again, and God saves them" in the twinkling of an eye.
So, "water baptism" Is Scriptural, But Dispensationally, "was for the Previous Law/Prophecy Program" of God, For ISRAEL!
Conclusion, water baptism is Scriptural, but, TODAY, is UNdispensational! Amen?
Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!
Ephesians 1:13-14. 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,
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
This is a deep saying here!
First we heard the Gospel of our salvation.
We believed it.
And right away we were SEALED with the Holyspirit of promise.
Which is the EARNEST/"DOWN PAYMENT" of our inheritance.
UNTIL the redemption of the PURCHASED POSSESSION!!! Unto the praise of his glory.
Let's look into this, First of all we were sealed with the Holyspirit of promise! "Eternal security "
We are sealed "WITH" the Holyspirit of promise, Which is the Down-payment of our inheritance. UNTIL the redemption of the PURCHASED possession.
Jesus prayed in Mathew 26:39-45. three times if there be any other way take this cup from him. "And the Father never relieved him from this burden, So the price of this redemption, and the purchased possession was the highest of value!!
And It was the blood of Christ that bought us. HE WILL REDEEM HIS PURCHASE. You have been SEALED "Providing that in your heart you truly believed " This puts
John 10:28. in mind.
NOTE:
Acts 20:28. 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.
Here's What we were redeemed from:
Galatians 3:13. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:
The law brought death, Paul said when the law came he died. There is nothing to add to what Christ paid to redeem us, If so God would have answered his prayer.
And "IF" you have you have been SEALED you "ARE" barring fruit because you have been given the Holyspirit.
God bless.
John 6:63 ....the words that I speak unto you, THEY ARE SPIRIT
1 Corinthians 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto to you SPIRITUAL, but as unto CARNAL ....
Galatians 3:28 ....there is neither male or female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 5:32 This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the CHURCH.
Christ is the husband, we are the WOMAN (spiritually speaking), we are the Church (spiritually speaking). We are to KEEP SILENT before our husband and to keep SILENT in the CHURCH.
1 John 2:27 But the anointing which you (the woman) have received of him (your husband) abideth in you (the woman), and you (the woman) need not that any man teach you (the woman): but as the same anointing (your husband) teacheth you (the woman) all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it (your husband) hath taught you (the woman), ye (the woman) shall abide in him (your husband) (and you shall become one flesh).
1 Timothy 2:14 And Adam (Christ, spiritually speaking) was not deceived, but the WOMAN (the CHURCH, spiritually speaking) bring deceived was in the transgression.
1 Timothy 2:15 Notwithstanding she (the woman, the church) shall be saved in childbearing ....
Revelation 12:2 And she (the woman, the church) being with CHILD cried, travailing in birth, and pained to BE DELIVERED.
How about Genesis 6:14. If I read that, does that automatically I need to build an ark? Did God say that to me and only to me?
Now, let's go back to your Tobit verse- does that truly mean what you say it means? Did you pray and ask God about it and see any confirmation from Him?
What about other followers of God in the Bible who had mixed race spouses? I personally do not believe your interpretation applies as I do not see evidence for it. A current political movement is aimed at dividing people and making people feel entitled. It is deceptive and evil and I believe it's from satan and not God, based on the fruit and lies of this movement. I believe God over man. I will follow God over man and He said this: Galatians 3:28. God bless...
Precious friend, then I must Misunderstand: "Repent, and Believe The Gospel Of The GRACE Of God"? = "Believe On CHRIST, His Death, Burial, and Resurrection, by GRACE Through faith {BELIEF, trust}." ( 1 Corinthians 15:3-4) ( Ephesians 2:5-9)?
I must Misunderstand "trusting CHRIST" In ( Ephesians 1:12)? Also:
"But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of The LORD, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and BELIEF of The Truth:" ( 2 Thessalonians 2:13)?
"Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that BELIEVE..." ( Romans 3:22)? compare ( Romans 4:11) ( Romans 4:24) ( 1 Corinthians 1:21) ( Galatians 3:22) ( Ephesians 1:19) ( Philippians 1:29) ( 1 Thessalonians 1:7) ( 1 Thessalonians 2:13) ( 1 Thessalonians 4:14) ( 2 Thessalonians 1:10)
Finally IF I BELIEVE, "but sins are NOT forgiven," how is it that I HAVE Life Everlasting, According To ALL The above Plain And Clear Scriptures About "BELIEF"?:
"Howbeit for this cause I obtained MERCY, that in me first JESUS CHRIST might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter BELIEVE ON HIM to Life Everlasting." ( 1 Timothy 1:16)?
Upon my BELIEF Of Truth, did not The Holy Spirit Baptize ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) me Into The Body Of CHRIST, God "forgiving my sins," in the twinkling of an eye?
Now, IF you are referring to "water baptism for the remission of sins" that is altogether
Another Different Bible study we could pursue, IF you wish...
Respectfully, ChrisE
Satan is the prince of this world and The world also hate Jesus.
Here's why the world hated Jesus.
This persecution Started in Genesis and on through us today. Genesis 3:15.
John 7:7. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, BECAUSE I TESTIFY OF IT, THAT THE WORKS THEREOF ARE EVIL
And the world presently hates Jesus disciples as well as any people who has a role in God's redemption program.
The Lord called out Abraham and blessed him and Made an unconditional covenant with him. And he would be the Father of many nations Genesis 17:4-13.
Galatians 4:28. Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.
Galatians 3:28-29. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
God is not done with Israel as some think,
And the Church did not replace Israel.
They play a role in the future.
Acts 15:14-16. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name.
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:
This is a spiritual warfare!!
That's the short of it. Perhaps someone can go into more detail.
God bless.
.
Does God Require water baptism, today? IF yes, then, we have to find out WHICH of the Many Various "denominational traditions" is the Correct one, Correct?
However, IF God Says "NO," as I believe All Scripture Shows below, then "yes" is OUT of the question, yes?:
"Summary study" on this Important Issue:
Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!
The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =
A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6)
+
B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16)
Prophecy/Law
Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things That Differ!:
Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION,
Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!!
( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4)
( 1 Corinthians 12:13)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Conclusion: God's ONE Baptism Today? = ONE OR, EQUALS TWO?
Is it not Possible That God's Answer Of "No water baptism, for us Today," Under HIS Pure GRACE, absolutely vanquishes the {Many Severely DIVIDED denominations?} Confusion into oblivion!? Also, "...we walk By FAITH, Not by sight..." ( 2 Corinthians 5:7) Amen?
Mark, Precious friend, Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!
is to first ask: Does God Require water baptism, today? IF yes, then find out "how."
IF not, then no need to find that out, Correct? Here is my "Summary study" on this Important Issue:
Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!
The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =
A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli"priesthood!" ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6)
+
B) WITHThe Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16) Prophecy/Law
Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things ThatDiffer!:
Mystery/GRACE! =our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:
Paul WasNot Sent to water baptize! Why Not?:
Today: Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION,Spiritually Identifying members Into The ONE Body Of CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4) ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) MYSTERY/GRACE! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Conclusion: God's ONE Baptism Today? = ONEOR, EQUALS TWO?
Is it not Possible That God'sAnswer Of "No water baptism, for us Today," Under HIS Pure GRACE, absolutely "Solves" theMany Severely DIVIDED denominations' Confusion!?
Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!
Romans 2:28-29. For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh:
But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
Galatians 3:26-29. For ye are all the CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH IN CHRIST JESUS.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
THERE IS NEITHER JEW NOR GREEK, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
AND IF YE BE CHRIST'S, THEN ARE YE ABRAHAM'S SEED, and heirs according to the promise.
God bless
We often like to look at salvation as our sins forgiven, and rightfully so. But it may be better understood and appreciated if we look at it as our sins being payed for by the shed blood on the cross. "The sacrificial lamb" life for life!
THE GIFT OF LIFE IS FREE BECAUSE THE DEBT WAS PAID WITH THE CRUCIFIXION OF OUR LORD.
Galatians 3:19-29. Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Now how do live our life?
ROM 6.
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.
Thank you for your response. Yes, we both agree that we must obey God's commandments and remain faithful until death to inherit the blessings. Where we don't, perhaps, see eye to eye is what are the commandments of God today.
Do you keep God's commandments by getting circumcised as per Leviticus 12:3?
Do you keep God's commandments and dwell in booths for seven days every year as per Leviticus 23:42?
Do you make fringes on the border of your garments as per God's commandment at Numbers 15:38?
Do you go up to Jerusalem three times a year as per God's commandment at Exodus 23:17?
If you answer no, it seems to me that you don't, after all, obey God's commandments. Jesus and the Apostle John did not say, "If you obey the 10 commandments", but rather, "If you obey the commandments" (all the commandments). The question arises, though, which commandments?
I would suggest the commandments of the New Covenant (or Testament) found in the portion of our Bibles called the New Testament.
As for Matthew 5:17-18, please note one important point - it says till all be fulfilled. The purpose of the law was fulfilled when Christ offered up his perfect life in sacrifice. Then, it was done away with. Notice:
Galatians 3:23-25 "But before faith came, we were kept under the law (a schoolmaster), shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore THE LAW WAS our SCHOOLMASTER to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But AFTER that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster (the law).
That's why Jesus also said at the parallel account of Matthew 5:17-18 found at Luke 16:16.
Luke 16:16 "The LAW and the prophets WERE UNTIL JOHN: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it."
Then, Jesus set up the New Covenant.
Luke 22:20 "Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you."
I welcome your further thoughts.
Good day, Vince.
If we read the whole passage, we see Paul referring to the "election of grace" (v 5), whereby those Jews, with blinded eyes, deaf ears, & a spirit of slumber, failed to take hold of God's Grace & rested on their works (which by inference is to the Law of Works) to obtain salvation. And through their fall & removal from the olive tree, those of believing Israel, including believing Gentiles were grafted into that natural tree, which represents those whom the Lord regards as His Own (by election), those who have taken hold of God's Grace in salvation.
You're seeing this grafting in of the Gentiles with the believing Jews as a sanction from God that all be brought under the Law or to obey it. I see the opposite: I see the election of Grace at work, whereby those who were cut out from the tree because of their reliance on the Law to save them, have given up their privileged position to those who have not relied upon the Law to save them, but have submitted themselves to the Grace of God for His salvation.
And if our salvation (for both Jew & Gentile) is dependent on God's Grace, then it is no more of works. As Paul said in the same chapter, verse 6: "And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work." And this work that he was referring to was Israel's dependence of the working (fulfilling) of the Law towards their salvation. And to this, God's Grace was in opposition, for salvation cannot come by appealing to & relying upon the Law of Works. If salvation then is by Grace alone (which I know you believe), why refer to a Law that only leads to death when the new Law of the life-giving Spirit in us sets us free from the Law of sin & death? And Galatians 3:21.
Thank you Michael for that clear & concise response. If the foundations of biblical teaching or doctrine are not properly laid, the building cracks will develop & bring destruction. I find that many Christians, whether because of Church teaching or from their own surmisings, look at Scriptures such as John 14:15 & immediately apply the obedience to the Law for all people, that which was given only to Israel.
To do so, several things have to be overlooked or rejected: to whom was God speaking in the OT & to whom was Jesus speaking prior to His crucifixion? Only to Israel, none else. Gentiles weren't even in the picture pertaining to the Law & never have been. What was the reason for giving the Law? God's code of conduct (spiritual, moral & social) for His people, His Mark of separation from the heathen - Leviticus 26:46, (as also with circumcision: Genesis 17:10), & to demonstrate to Israel a godly standard that as sinners they could never fully obey ( Galatians 3:21-26).
But then we get verses such as Matthew 5:17-19 which are often used to support the eternal nature & applicability of the Law to all people. To those under the Law, indeed, the Law is current & will be used against them. To those who have escaped the curse of the Law & have found new life in Christ, have learned that Christ has indeed fulfilled all the Law, forever abrogating it & thru His Death ushered in a new & better Covenant ( Hebrews 8:6-13).
What then do we do with Scriptures (e.g. 1 John 5:2,3) that say we must obey God's commandments? Are John & others pointing the believer back to the letter of the Law that kills or rather to the Spirit Who gives life ( 2 Corinthians 3:6)? It is the Spirit's Law in our hearts that frees us from the Law of sin & death ( Romans 8:2). To give consent to both, that which is opposed to each other, weakens (even negates) the power of the New Covenant through Christ's Blood & the keeping of the Sabbath ever stands as a centrepiece to
To do so, several things have to be overlooked or rejected: to whom was God speaking in the OT & to whom was Jesus speaking prior to His crucifixion? Only to Israel, none else. Gentiles weren't even in the picture pertaining to the Law & never have been. What was the reason for giving the Law? God's code of conduct (spiritual, moral & social) for His people, His Mark of separation from the heathen - Leviticus 26:46, (as also with circumcision: Genesis 17:10), & to demonstrate to Israel a godly standard that as sinners they could never fully obey ( Galatians 3:21-26).
But then we get verses such as Matthew 5:17-19 which are often used to support the eternal nature & applicability of the Law to all people. To those under the Law, indeed, the Law is current & will be used against them. To those who have escaped the curse of the Law & have found new life in Christ, have learned that Christ has indeed fulfilled all the Law, forever abrogating it & thru His Death ushered in a new & better Covenant ( Hebrews 8:6-13).
What then do we do with Scriptures (e.g. 1 John 5:2,3) that say we must obey God's commandments? Are John & others pointing the believer back to the letter of the Law that kills or rather to the Spirit Who gives life ( 2 Corinthians 3:6)? It is the Spirit's Law in our hearts that frees us from the Law of sin & death ( Romans 8:2). To give consent to both, that which is opposed to each other, weakens (even negates) the power of the New Covenant through Christ's Blood & the keeping of the Sabbath ever stands as a centrepiece to cause both error & division.
If he's saved you will find him
Galatians 3:26-28 (KJV) For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 3:8 And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith (CHRIST IS OUR FAITH), preached before the GOSPEL unto Abraham, saying in thee shall all these nations be blessed.
Hebrews 4:2 For unto us was the gospel preached, AS WELL AS UNTO THEM: but the word (CHRIST) preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them (CHRIST IN THEM) that heard it.
The GOSPEL IS:
2 Timothy 1:10 But is now made manifest (Christ in the flesh) by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath ABOLISHED DEATH, and hath brought LIFE and IMMORTALITY to light through the gospel.
1 John 3:8 He that committeth sin is of the devil (alive to the flesh), for the devil sinneth from the beginning, For this purpose (gospel) the Son of Man was MANIFESTED, that he might destroy THE WORKS OF THE DEVIL.
This is the GOSPEL: You (seed of flesh) died on the cross with Christ and you (seed of Spirit) was RAISED with HIM.
The saints of old received this promise also at HIS RESURRECTION
Hebrews 11:39 And these all, having received a good report through faith, received not the promise (victory over sin and death) (CHRIST IN US):
Hebrews 11:49 God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect (accomplished at Christ death and resurrection).
Matthew 27:52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,
Matthew 27:53 And came out of the graves at HIS RESURRECTION, and went into the holy city (new Jerusalem), and appeared to many.
If you are thinking we are grafted in by keeping the Law you are mistaking, you are missing the point in Romans 11.
Romans 11:20. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
You are expecting to be grafted into a branch that has been broken off!
I'm not sure if you are implying salvation comes by keeping the 10 commandments, if you are the bible don't state that.
Galatians 3:16-26. Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect.
For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise.
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.
But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
We're not grafted into Israel. Israel is a branch. We're grafted into the vine to bare fruit.
I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. John 15:1.
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Galatians 3:27-29 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:
Romans 6:1-5 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. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
Colossians 2:11-14 KJV
Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:
1 Peter 3:20-21 kjv
"In keeping of them is great reward" Psalms 19:11
"Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just and good" Romans 7:12
"the law is spiritual" Romans 7:14
"Sin is the transgression of the law" 1 John 3:4
"Cursed is everyone that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them" Galatians 3:10
"The soul that sinneth, it shall die" Ezekiel 18:14
"For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse" Galatians 3:10
"weak through the flesh" Romans 8:3
"Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight" Romans 3:20
"having no hope, and without God in the world" Ephesians 2:12
"But we are all as an unclean thing, and all of our righteousness are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away" Isaiah 64:6
"We have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; as it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: there is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one...There is no fear of God before there eyes...For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" Romans 3:9-23
"the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness" Romans 1:18
"Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off" Romans 11:22
Studying on the seed and the promise