Regarding your views on Water Baptism it cannot save a person. Please read Hebrews 6:1,2. It was one of the rites of of the Jewish Religion ( Numbers 19:7, Hebrews 9:10). Like circumcision, it was strictly an act of faith, and as Peter explains it is an a pledge of good conscience towards God.
For a better understanding and the 'spiritual truth' of what it means to repent, and learn how and by whom mankind has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9) and what people must do to be reunited with the true and living God, we invite you to seek Him according to the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive ( Matthew 7:7; John 14:17).
Repentance is the key principle of all the teachings of Jesus Christ and the axiom (basis) of the Word of God and a prerequisite and primary requirement for the salvation of mankind. It actually means the changing of spirits - to turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God ( Acts 26:18).
You need not that any man teach you ( Isaiah 54:13; 6:45; 1 John 2:27), as mankind follows after an image of a false god and a false Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Gal. 4:8; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Rev. 12:9).
It is only by revelation of God that people will come to know the true Christ ( Daniel 12:4,9; Amos 3:7; Matthew 16:17; Luke 2:26; Romans 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:10; Gal. 1:16; Eph. 3:3,5; Rev. 1:1), and only then will you be able to overcome the spirit of this world ( 1 John 5:4; Rev. 3:21) and learn what 'True Repentance' means, and how this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9). It should also be remembered that it is a narrow way that leadeth unto 'Life', and few there be that find it ( Matthew 7:14; Luke 13:23).
LUKE 15:10. LIKEWISE, I SAY UNTO YOU, THERE IS JOY IN THE PRESENCE OF THE ANGELS OF GOD OVER ONE SINNER THAT REPENTETH.
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We did contact you Ministry on different occasions, along with several reporters at the Houston Chronicle to warn them of God's judgment of all the false churches and Ministries (Mega Churches).
We invite you to Google the article 'False Apostles and False Christs'. It is an article listed on our website and should come up as the first Listing on Google and welcome your questions.
It should be noted that in over 36 years of service we have never collected/received, solicited or requested donations. The gift of 'Life' was freely given and freely do we give to all those that believe ( 2 Kings 5:16; Matthew 6:26; 10:8).
Comments by Alex about y Jesus was water baptised,it goes back to the O.T. Moses had said if a house has a leprosy or a scall it wd have to be washed with with the blood of a dove. The priest wd have to take 2 turtle doves and wash them by running water but 1 wd have to be a sacrificial dove and be killed and his blood sprinkled on the living bird which is the Church,Christ was our sacrificial dove thats y the dove descended on Jesus.Turtle doves are lovers just like Christ and the CHURCH are lovers.Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave his life for it ( the sacrificial dove ) . In Song of Solomon the 2 lovers are Christ and the Church but they refer to each other as having Doves EYES,Christ and his disciples answer to the 2 turtle doves that had to be washed by running water th Jordan was running water,John th bap. answers to the Hi Priest that was of the tribe of Levi, he did the baptism th washing. Song of solomon says while the king sits at his table my spicknard sends for as sweet smell, We are all in the house of Simon the leper we all are unclean but jESUS answers to the sacrificial dove that wd have to be killed and his blood sprinkled on the living bird th Church. Thats y JESUS was water baptised he answers to the sacrificial dove, thats y that dove descended on JESUS, AS TH SACRIFICIAL DOVE HE HAD TO BE WASHED BY RUNNING WATER, THE JORDAN WAS RUNNING WATER.All the disciples answer to the CHURCH THE LIVING BIRD THAT WAS SET FREE,Whom the son sets free is free indeed. But Jesus knew that they had all been water baptised But he tells them if i WASH thee not you will have no part with me which speaks volumes of a greater baptism coming with his blood the CROSS,you are made clean by the WORD i have spoken unto you. He tells his own disciples that had been water baptised, If I wash thee not you will have NO part with me. Which is H.G. BAPTISM, Even in the time of Moses without the shedding of blood there can be no remission Sin. Th Cross
Jesus Baptised by John the Baptist WHY - In Reply on Matthew 3 - 4 years ago
Matthew 3:13-17
This was prophesy being fulfilled From the Old Testament.
Jesus was saying: let all righteousness be fulfilled.
13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.
14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
In the New Testament, they didn't always have water around to baptize new believers.
Some were water baptized, and others were not.
For some people it's a church and family celebration when someone is saved and wants to be baptized with their family around.
I came out of the occult and was born again. I had so much persecution by demonic spirits that tried to discourage me in mean ways. I went into a church and requested to be baptized to show Jesus I was serious about following Him only; and to show the demons that I had made my choice!!
If you don't furnish your spiritual house with the Bible every day... the demons come back to see if you're vulnerable.
Some of us need kindness and assurance that we are accepted into the family of faith.
A little Baptist woman held my hand and told me about 50 times, I was forgiven.
The bible tells that water baptism means when we are submerged in the water we have died with Christ when we come out of the water we rise we Christ in to a new being reborn we are now in family of God with the Holy Spirit as our seal has Christians. Bless you.
I believe that water baptism is very essential. It is a public show that accounts for us walking in newness of life. Jesus was baptized and The Holy Ghost descended upon Him, followed by the voice from Heaven that said "This is My beloved Son..." That shows that the example was set by our Heavenly Father who was sinless. We all should strive to follow that perfect example.
Many times even in the present problems we are facing world wide (Covid-19), I wonder if we as believers finds it at all possible to take refuge in the words of God. For many years we read and preach about God's goodness and His ability to protect His people in these uncertain times, and I have seen so much fear among believers. My question is where is the Faith in God that we should be putting into practice in days such as these. We were fore warned that " Perilous times will come, this world is not our final destination. We are pilgrims, sojourners, that are passing through. Let us lift up our heads as The King Of Glory will soon return for His bride.
The Word of God is God ( John 1:1) and is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20).
The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of god: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned ( Cor. 2:14).
You cannot just change the word 'born' to 'baptize'. The word of God is not of any private interpretation. The water is the living water (Christ) and unless a person is born of the water and the Spirit , he cannot enter into the kingdom of God ( John 3:5; Isaiah 44:3,4; Matthew 3:11; Titus 3:5).
We invite you to study what it means to repent ( Acts 26:18) and the baptism of repentance ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3; Acts 13:24; 19:4), as it means a lot more than what by nature you have been conditioned to believe.
Water baptism and circumcision was an act of faith but could not save people. Then the next question should be asked: Faith in what?
The true church is the Philadelphia church, correct. So, ask the Lord Jesus Christ to show you which church is the TRUE Philadelphia church according to God's Word (the Bible). Trying reading Matthew 16:15-18 9SIGNS OF THE TRUE CHURCH). Also read the following scriptures: Acts, 2:38 (baptism), Acts 4:12 (baptizing in the NAME of JESUS and the filling of the Holy Spirit) as Jesus did in Matthew 3:16. You have a father, but he has a name....just like our Heavenly Father. Also, read John 3:5: Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews asked Jesus how to be born again. This is the only Bible evidence of salvation and the way to enter heaven. The Word of God says to ASK and ye shall receive, Seek and ye shall find, KNOCK and the door shall be opened unto to--taking the first alphabet of ASK, SEEK, and KNOCK = ASK. If you really want to know, ASK Jesus and if your BELIEVE, He will show you by HIS WORD (the Bible). Hope this comforts your soul. There is a church that practices all these scriptures (in Hawaii): baptism in Jesus name, filling of the Holy Spirit, and praying unceasingly that the whole world come to the true and accurate knowledge of the TRUTH.
"And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
Mark 1:10-12:
"And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:
And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness."
John 1:1:
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
1 John 5:7:
"For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one."
Hey Vadim, I am going to be praying for you, my Brother. It seems to me you are fighting a sexual demon. You must stay in plentiful prayer when going through this. Call on the name of Jesus! The Demons hear and tremble. If you have a church you go to get a pastor to pray over you and see if they can help you cast off the evil spirit's working in your life. Do your best to not entertain those spirits. Run to prayer when your fighting those sexual lusts and dreams. I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. I am an Apostolic Pentecostal. The baptism of the spirit can take you out from what you're dealing with Matthew 3:11Acts 1:8Acts 2:4. if you need anything to reach out to my church @ (616) 243-9719. God Bless you, Vadim. There is power in Jesus' name to rebuke the evil things working in your life.
The Holy Ghost is called God, Jesus is God and the Father is also.
Acts 5:3-4 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to LIE to the HOLY GHOST, and to keep back part of the price of the land? ...thou hast not lied unto men, but unto GOD.
Each Person of the Godhead SPEAKS AUDIBLY in the Bible--
God the Father SAID of Jesus in Matthew 3:17 ..."This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
Jesus SAID in John 10:30, " I and my Father are one."
The Holy Ghost SAID in Acts 13:2, ..."Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them."
Genesis 1:26-27, And God said, LET US make man in OUR image, after OUR likeness...So God created man in his own image, in the image of God [not angels. the "us" can only refer to God.] created he him;
In the Old Testament, we find that God has a Son ( Proverbs 30:4, Psalm 2:7-12) and a Spirit ( Isaiah 40:13, 2 Samuel 23:2, Judges 3:10, etc.).
I Corinthians 2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
The Godhead and salvation.
The Holy Ghost reproves us, teaches us, guides us and testifies of Jesus Christ.
John 14:26, But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, HE shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, HE shall testify of me:
Bob, I fully agree with you. John was indeed judgemental but too often we apply a negative connotation to that word. He had every authority to proclaim what he did, even as his coming was according to prophecy ( Isa 40:3). Even in Islam, he is considered a prophet of God (his Islamic name is Yahiya). So his authority was Scripture-based & his words were truly from God as they had come to pass, as proof of his appointment ( Deut 18:22).
I wonder whether the failure of Christians to speak forth to the Church & the world is because of this 'fear of being judgemental' attitude? We may not be perfect (neither was J the B: Mt 3:14) & we have not been appointed by God to prophet-hood status, but don't we have the authority of God's Word, on which we stand? I realize that correct interpretation & application of the Word also comes to bear upon us, but I believe there is too little evidence of believers using their God-given authority & standing to warn/remind/judge errant folk in their folly. And those that might be energized to speak up, are very likely suppressed, so that their voice is not heard & the status quo of blissful ignorance & serenity is preserved. What will be the state of the Church when Christ comes for her? There'll be a few surprises, for sure.
I'm very impressed with John the Baptist , with what he said to the Pharisee and others that in verse 12 . Is he not being judgemental? Oh yes he is ! But if we examine our selves first we can see clearly and judge right . John was the greatest of all the prophets according to Jesus . And we can see why . In this verse . Even the Jews considered him a prophet at that time . He was one powerful prophet . John reveals how severe Jesus will be in judgement in the future . In verse 12 . What's the point ? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and should motivate anyone to get right with God , because even though God is love and mercy , judgement is severe and sure , if we settle for less than Gods way .
If you have put your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and believe that God has raised him from the dead, you are already baptized in the Holy Spirit ( Matthew 3:11; Mark 1:8; Luke 3:16; Acts 11:15-17; 1 Corinthians 12:3 and 12:13; 1 John 5:1). All of 1 Corinthians chapter 12 is instructive in the working of the Spirit in Christ's body, the Church.
In John 14:16-18 and in John chapter 16, Jesus promises the Comforter will be sent to dwell with and in his disciples after he returns to the Father. The mission of the Comforter is to reprove the world of sin, righteousness and judgement. As the Spirit of truth, he guides Jesus' followers in all truth, not promoting himself, but glorifying Jesus Christ and the things of Christ.
Romans chapter 8 teaches us about walking in the Spirit after we've learned the hard lesson of our weakness in the flesh as found in Romans 7.
The book of Colossians and 2 Peter chapter 1 are a couple of fine prescriptions for aligning yourself to spiritual living.
It so warms the heart and spirit, that we are like-minded, in agreement on the Holy Spirits ministry to us as Believers in Jesus. In a sense we can go into the Upper Room with Him, to worship and learn. He loves to reveal Jesus and prepare us for what comes next. Sometimes I ask myself, what is He doing in me today.
There is a passage where Martha was sitting at Jesus's feet, listening to what He was speaking. She gets scolded for not preparing a meal with the others. Jesus says something like, she has chosen the better portion.
That's why I try to show others what Jesus has said we are to be doing. Demonstrating our love for each other (as Gentiles) so that the Jews will see, wonder, and be envious of our relationship to our Beloved, our Savior Jesus, the long awaited for, Messiah.
There's this HUGE dynamic that very few people perceive. We're pounding on the scripture trying to excel past Jews who study endlessly; when it is the fellowship and brotherly & sisterly love, Jesus wants us to excel in. We're going to love them into the Kingdom by our love and obedience to the known will of God.
In Matthew 26, Jesus is having dinner with the Pharisees, elders, etc. Mary Magdalene comes in with this expensive pot of perfumed ointment. Read it. The Pharisees know Jesus will be arrested the next day! Yet they jump up and try to drag Mary out.
(This a memorial to her as Jesus said).
Jews still don't know they missed their Messiah! To this day. Although some of the returning Jews have become Christian in places where they lived.
Minister your love and worship to Jesus and all will be well spoken of you in heaven. There will be a reward for just loving, worshipping and not railing on Jews in public and in private. THEY will know Him by your LOVE for each other. NOT competition.
I apologize for preaching. I'm supposed to be having a quiet day. Thanks so much for your reply.
Just want to say, God Bless any of you who carry on this conversation (I must drop out of it now) - I def. don't mean it to divide our BODY (there is enough division) - it was just my own personal thoughts, not meant to be a matter of contention.
To the administrators of this site: I am thankful for and greatly appreciate it!
Hi Michael - I agree totally that the baptism of the Holy Spirit was not just for Jews back then - I meant that those in line to get water baptized by John were (most likely - I wasn't there lol) mainly, if not all, Jews. Once the Jewish nation rejected Jesus as their Messiah (in general - not counting Jesus' Jewish followers) and delivered Him up for crucifixion, He rises and His disciples get Hot on fire spreading the word here, there and everywhere -
and then PAUL really gets the ball rolling and spreads the gospel to the Gentiles:
( Eph. 3:8 Unto ME, who am less than the least of all saints, IS THIS GRACE GIVEN, THAT *I* SHOULD PREACH AMONG the GENTILES the unsearchable riches of Christ)
I just wanted to share my thoughts on water baptism and go no further, but I am so with you about the Comforter coming! and Jesus' disciples being beyond JOY when He arrived!!!
I guess though, I have to say - I believe, in this dispensation of GRACE - that when we are saved - at that moment -
we become "In Christ" -
( 2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore IF ANY MAN BE IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new)
At the moment we are saved we are IN CHRIST - in other words, we are IMMERSED in HIM - and, as we all know, baptism is about being immersed (Some immerse in water - Jesus immerses/baptized us IN HIM - meaning we are IMMERSED/BAPTIZED at that moment in HIS HOLY SPIRIT -as opposed to His physical body)
So, in a nutshell, I believe we are 'baptized in the Holy Spirit' the moment we are saved - I know for myself, I never needed to speak in tongues to get set on FIRE
I believe 'Tongues' are actual earthly languages - ( Acts 2:6 -because that every man heard them speak in his own lang)
I Cor 13:8-10
whether there be tongues, they shall cease... but when that which is PERFECT (God's Word =The Bible) is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. (shortening verses because of space)
Kathleen, you make some good points & they are almost a reflection of my grandfather's view on water baptism, where his opposition to it was so strong, that he forbad any of his children & wife to go through its waters.
And as much as I would agree with you on the 'greater' importance to be baptized with the Holy Spirit (& after all this is the hallmark of the believer, & that which seals & secures him/her eternally), what then do you make of the NT Scriptures that still demonstrate water baptism? Of course, we have Jesus' Own Command to His disciples in Mt 28:19,20 (& I give a few Scriptures relating only to water baptism); Acts 2:38-41; 8:38; 16:33; 19:1-6; 1 Cor 13:13-16. And these were not just Jews only but Gentiles as well. And in any case, once a Jew turns to Christ, Christian baptism is still necessary to demonstrate the act of conversion.
How do you interpret these portions?
The only occasion that I could anticipate that a Christian would not need to be baptized in water would be where there was no one (e.g. an evangelist or personal witness) to share the Gospel with the unbeliever, & that enquiring soul, from the reading of the Word & moving of the Spirit, receives spiritual re-birth. A good example of this are the Apostles, (except Saul who was led to the Lord by Ananias ( Acts 9:1-18)). We never see any testimony or reference by the apostles to their water baptism. Why not? Because they were baptized with the Spirit at Pentecost & were never led to salvation. So, it seems that the one that leads a soul to salvation should ensure (i.e. obeying the command) that water baptism takes place forthwith as a testimony of the great transaction. Sadly, our Churches pay little regard to this clearly defined order & folk are baptized according to their wishes & even decades down the road. There seems little sense to me in doing it this way & may just be a form of 'works' in case "I don't make it to Heaven".
Mishael on Baptism-Holy Spirit-Upper Room - In Reply on Matthew 3 - 4 years ago
Someone needs to tell the Baptist Churches, huh?
John the Baptist also baptized Jesus in water. As a dove the Holy Spirit pointed Jesus out. John prophesied, this is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.
If you go back into Discussions history pages you will see many pages on comment on this subject: through Jesus and all of his disciples and Paul.
We cannot understand the Bible fully unless we have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. That's why the Disciples were told by Jesus to await in the Upper Room.
The Holy Spirit is the 3rd person of the Godhead. When He came into the upper room the guys saw tongues of fire. They had a unique supernatural experience that was witnessed by a lot of people. How do you know they were all Jews? This event flowed out into the streets, such was the excitement. I'm sure there were some Gentiles in the area. What are the odds on that? It says they heard their own languages coming from the disciples mouths. It was a city; all kinds of people were around to witness this and Hear it.
It's recorded in the Bible. Jesus wanted this to happen just as it did. He said the Comforter would Come! The disciples KNEW this was the manifestation of what Jesus said! They were beyond JOY that Jesus was with them and in them in a very real way.
They were not alone, fearful, anymore. They had Jesus with them and in them again.
Look in your encyclopedic index in your Bible and look at the list of what all the Holy Spirits ministry is to believers! One: HE is our TEACHER who HELPS us rightly divide the WORD of TRUTH. (I AM the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE). We need the Holy Spirit; and His Baptism.
If you are doubting about the gift of tongues; HE will not force it on you! It's for your edification. See? We have to learn from Him first. Be taught by Him. You have to study like a "student" and ask many many questions that are in your mind. And then you've got to get STILL before HIM and LISTEN to Him.
Matthew 3:11 - I indeeed baptize you with WATER unto repentance
Who is "I"? It is John the Baptist. What is he baptizing with? Water. Why? For 'repentance' (reviewing one's actions and feeling contrition or regret for past wrongs, which is accompanied by commitment to and actual actions that show and prove a change for the better.)
Who was John baptizing? Jews..What were they repenting of? Dead WORKS
( Matt. 3:11) But he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear:
he shall baptize you with the HOLY GHOST (Spirit), and with FIRE
Who was John talking about? Jesus .So Jesus baptizes us with the Holy Spirit and Fire (Fire is definitely not water)
Then Ephesians 4:4-5 says:
There is ONE body, and ONE Spirit, even as ye are called in ONE hope of your calling;
ONE Lord, ONE faith, ONE baptism
1 = 1 Which baptism is it? by water? or By Fire(= Holy Spirit)?
If I have to pick ONE BAPTISM I choose Jesus'
Now, WHO had John the Bap. been baptizing? JEWS
Who did Jesus come for?
The Jews ( Matt. 15:24)
Who were the apostles first called to go to? The Jews ( Matt. 10:6)
So, Jesus and John the Bap. were just dealing with the Jews at the time (In fact, until He rose again - Jesus' ministry was primarily to the Jews - He even referred to the Gentiles as 'dogs' ( Matt. 15"26)
How does Jesus save? By Grace=NO more WORKS
How would the Jews get saved? By Grace, right?
They needed to turn (def. of 'repentance') away from depending on their works( Heb. 6"1) and depend solely on Jesus to be saved.
John baptized The Jews w/water to show they had repented from depending on the Law
The Gentiles never even knew about the law so they didn't need water baptism
Jesus didn't need the thief on the cross to be baptized by water
And so,water baptism is associated w/the Jews - & it was newly saved Jews who thought it was necc. for ALL, but Paul knew better ( I Cor. 1:17)
Thanks for the reply Chris, I'm happy to have a discussion.
This will be a multi post reply (If this website allows all of them) as there is a lot to unpack with your questions.
It seems there are some principles that need to be established in order for you to understand my position.
1. We have two Natures. There are several names for the two natures all men struggle between.
The new man and the old man, the flesh and the spirit, the carnal mind and the mind of Christ.
Romans 8:7
For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot.
God's Law is an expression of his nature, only when walking in the spirit (the new man/nature) can we follow it.
Romans 8:8
Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Galatians 3:27
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
(Which ties into this verse)
Matthew 3:11
"I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (This is the non literal fire)
Not only in this a spiritual fire but this fire is essential to being saved, which I believe we are not saved until we have endured to the end.
1 Corinthians 3:15
If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.
Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.
Galatians 5:16-17
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.
Galatians 5:24
And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
You have to know what was going on during Paul's day. There were Jews during Paul's ministry that wanted to put people under The Law ( Acts 15:1), and Paul warned them not to believe in ANY OTHER Gospel 1 Cor 15:1-4.
John The Baptist preached this gospel to ISRAEL ...
Matthew 3:1-2
In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Acts 19:4
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.
Jesus Christ preached The Gospel of the Kingdom to ISRAEL.
Matthew 4:17
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Matthew 4:23
And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
The Tribulation Gospel will be preached in the future to ISRAEL after The Body of Christ is taken out of here.
You see, WHAT Israel had to believe during Jesus' ministry is NOT The Gospel Paul preached to Jews and Gentiles in this Age of Grace.
Paul's Gospel is THE GOSPEL 1 Cor 15:1-4 we need to believe to be saved today!
Why would you say it's a waste of time to baptize others when there are so many verses in the KJV that say you need to be baptized. Even Jesus said you needed to be born of the water to enter Heaven.
Regarding your views on Water Baptism it cannot save a person. Please read Hebrews 6:1,2. It was one of the rites of of the Jewish Religion ( Numbers 19:7, Hebrews 9:10). Like circumcision, it was strictly an act of faith, and as Peter explains it is an a pledge of good conscience towards God.
For a better understanding and the 'spiritual truth' of what it means to repent, and learn how and by whom mankind has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9) and what people must do to be reunited with the true and living God, we invite you to seek Him according to the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive ( Matthew 7:7; John 14:17).
Repentance is the key principle of all the teachings of Jesus Christ and the axiom (basis) of the Word of God and a prerequisite and primary requirement for the salvation of mankind. It actually means the changing of spirits - to turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God ( Acts 26:18).
You need not that any man teach you ( Isaiah 54:13; 6:45; 1 John 2:27), as mankind follows after an image of a false god and a false Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Gal. 4:8; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Rev. 12:9).
It is only by revelation of God that people will come to know the true Christ ( Daniel 12:4,9; Amos 3:7; Matthew 16:17; Luke 2:26; Romans 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:10; Gal. 1:16; Eph. 3:3,5; Rev. 1:1), and only then will you be able to overcome the spirit of this world ( 1 John 5:4; Rev. 3:21) and learn what 'True Repentance' means, and how this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9). It should also be remembered that it is a narrow way that leadeth unto 'Life', and few there be that find it ( Matthew 7:14; Luke 13:23).
LUKE 15:10. LIKEWISE, I SAY UNTO YOU, THERE IS JOY IN THE PRESENCE OF THE ANGELS OF GOD OVER ONE SINNER THAT REPENTETH.
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
In His Service.
Andy & Dianne van den Berg - Nova Scotia, Canada
When you visit our website we invite you to review the 'Letter of Introduction' posted on the 'Introduction' page of the website. It highlights some of our work. Please note that our website was visited last year by people from over 160 countries. There are a total of 193 countries throughout the world plus the Vatican and Palestine that are listed as observer states.
We did contact you Ministry on different occasions, along with several reporters at the Houston Chronicle to warn them of God's judgment of all the false churches and Ministries (Mega Churches).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
In His Service.
Andy & Dianne van den Berg - Nova Scotia, Canada
We invite you to Google the article 'False Apostles and False Christs'. It is an article listed on our website and should come up as the first Listing on Google and welcome your questions.
It should be noted that in over 36 years of service we have never collected/received, solicited or requested donations. The gift of 'Life' was freely given and freely do we give to all those that believe ( 2 Kings 5:16; Matthew 6:26; 10:8).
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
In His Service.
Andy & Dianne van den Berg - Nova Scotia, Canada
Luke 18:13 ; Matthew 9:13 ; Psalms 51:17 2 Corinthians 7:9-11 ; 1 John 1:19 ; Luke 15:18 ; Matthew 3:5-6 ; Acts 19:17-18 ; Romans 6:2 ; 2 Chronicles 7:14 ; Luke 19:8 ; 1 Thessalonians 5:22 ; 2 Corinthians 7:11 ; Romans 8:13 ; Colossians 3:5 ; John 5:24 ; Ephesians 2:1 ; Romans 8:2 ; John 3:5-8 ; Ephesians 5:26 ; Titus 3:5 ; 2 Corinthians 5:17 ;
Romans 12:2 ; John 1:29 ; John 3:14-15 ; 1 Peter 3:18 ; Romans 5:1-2 ; Romans 8:1 ; Philippians 4:7 ; Romans 8:2 ; Romans 8:11-14 ; 2 Corinthians 5:17 ; 1 John 3:19 ; 1 Peter 1:23 ; Psalms 119:11 ; 1 John 4:7 ; Romans 5:5 ; Matthew 5:44 ; 1 John 5:4 ; John 16:33 ; James 1:27 ; 2 Corinthians 4:10 ; Acts 11:26 ; Romans 8:29 ; Ezekiel 36:26-27 ; Ephesians 2:2-3 ; Ephesians 2 4-6 ; Matthew 18:3 ; Acts 3:19 ; Ephesians 4:22-24 ; Colossians 3:1-14 ; Romans 8:29 ; Romans 8:29 ; Romans 6:1-2 ; Matthew 1:21
Likely there are more that are missed here.
:)
This was prophesy being fulfilled From the Old Testament.
Jesus was saying: let all righteousness be fulfilled.
13 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.
14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
In the New Testament, they didn't always have water around to baptize new believers.
Some were water baptized, and others were not.
For some people it's a church and family celebration when someone is saved and wants to be baptized with their family around.
I came out of the occult and was born again. I had so much persecution by demonic spirits that tried to discourage me in mean ways. I went into a church and requested to be baptized to show Jesus I was serious about following Him only; and to show the demons that I had made my choice!!
If you don't furnish your spiritual house with the Bible every day... the demons come back to see if you're vulnerable.
Some of us need kindness and assurance that we are accepted into the family of faith.
A little Baptist woman held my hand and told me about 50 times, I was forgiven.
Don't judge.
The Word of God is God ( John 1:1) and is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20).
The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of god: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned ( Cor. 2:14).
You cannot just change the word 'born' to 'baptize'. The word of God is not of any private interpretation. The water is the living water (Christ) and unless a person is born of the water and the Spirit , he cannot enter into the kingdom of God ( John 3:5; Isaiah 44:3,4; Matthew 3:11; Titus 3:5).
We invite you to study what it means to repent ( Acts 26:18) and the baptism of repentance ( Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3; Acts 13:24; 19:4), as it means a lot more than what by nature you have been conditioned to believe.
Water baptism and circumcision was an act of faith but could not save people. Then the next question should be asked: Faith in what?
Seek, and ye shall find ( Matthew 7:7).
For a better understanding what it means to Repent we invite you to review the article 'Repent' on a world deceived.ca
Matthew 3:16-17:
"And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
Mark 1:10-12:
"And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:
And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness."
John 1:1:
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
1 John 5:7:
"For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one."
The Holy Ghost is called God, Jesus is God and the Father is also.
Acts 5:3-4 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to LIE to the HOLY GHOST, and to keep back part of the price of the land? ...thou hast not lied unto men, but unto GOD.
Each Person of the Godhead SPEAKS AUDIBLY in the Bible--
God the Father SAID of Jesus in Matthew 3:17 ..."This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
Jesus SAID in John 10:30, " I and my Father are one."
The Holy Ghost SAID in Acts 13:2, ..."Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them."
Genesis 1:26-27, And God said, LET US make man in OUR image, after OUR likeness...So God created man in his own image, in the image of God [not angels. the "us" can only refer to God.] created he him;
In the Old Testament, we find that God has a Son ( Proverbs 30:4, Psalm 2:7-12) and a Spirit ( Isaiah 40:13, 2 Samuel 23:2, Judges 3:10, etc.).
I Corinthians 2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
The Godhead and salvation.
The Holy Ghost reproves us, teaches us, guides us and testifies of Jesus Christ.
John 14:26, But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, HE shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
John 15:26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, HE shall testify of me:
I wonder whether the failure of Christians to speak forth to the Church & the world is because of this 'fear of being judgemental' attitude? We may not be perfect (neither was J the B: Mt 3:14) & we have not been appointed by God to prophet-hood status, but don't we have the authority of God's Word, on which we stand? I realize that correct interpretation & application of the Word also comes to bear upon us, but I believe there is too little evidence of believers using their God-given authority & standing to warn/remind/judge errant folk in their folly. And those that might be energized to speak up, are very likely suppressed, so that their voice is not heard & the status quo of blissful ignorance & serenity is preserved. What will be the state of the Church when Christ comes for her? There'll be a few surprises, for sure.
In John 14:16-18 and in John chapter 16, Jesus promises the Comforter will be sent to dwell with and in his disciples after he returns to the Father. The mission of the Comforter is to reprove the world of sin, righteousness and judgement. As the Spirit of truth, he guides Jesus' followers in all truth, not promoting himself, but glorifying Jesus Christ and the things of Christ.
Romans chapter 8 teaches us about walking in the Spirit after we've learned the hard lesson of our weakness in the flesh as found in Romans 7.
The book of Colossians and 2 Peter chapter 1 are a couple of fine prescriptions for aligning yourself to spiritual living.
There is a passage where Martha was sitting at Jesus's feet, listening to what He was speaking. She gets scolded for not preparing a meal with the others. Jesus says something like, she has chosen the better portion.
That's why I try to show others what Jesus has said we are to be doing. Demonstrating our love for each other (as Gentiles) so that the Jews will see, wonder, and be envious of our relationship to our Beloved, our Savior Jesus, the long awaited for, Messiah.
There's this HUGE dynamic that very few people perceive. We're pounding on the scripture trying to excel past Jews who study endlessly; when it is the fellowship and brotherly & sisterly love, Jesus wants us to excel in. We're going to love them into the Kingdom by our love and obedience to the known will of God.
In Matthew 26, Jesus is having dinner with the Pharisees, elders, etc. Mary Magdalene comes in with this expensive pot of perfumed ointment. Read it. The Pharisees know Jesus will be arrested the next day! Yet they jump up and try to drag Mary out.
(This a memorial to her as Jesus said).
Jews still don't know they missed their Messiah! To this day. Although some of the returning Jews have become Christian in places where they lived.
Minister your love and worship to Jesus and all will be well spoken of you in heaven. There will be a reward for just loving, worshipping and not railing on Jews in public and in private. THEY will know Him by your LOVE for each other. NOT competition.
I apologize for preaching. I'm supposed to be having a quiet day. Thanks so much for your reply.
To the administrators of this site: I am thankful for and greatly appreciate it!
Sincerely,
KG
and then PAUL really gets the ball rolling and spreads the gospel to the Gentiles:
( Eph. 3:8 Unto ME, who am less than the least of all saints, IS THIS GRACE GIVEN, THAT *I* SHOULD PREACH AMONG the GENTILES the unsearchable riches of Christ)
I just wanted to share my thoughts on water baptism and go no further, but I am so with you about the Comforter coming! and Jesus' disciples being beyond JOY when He arrived!!!
I guess though, I have to say - I believe, in this dispensation of GRACE - that when we are saved - at that moment -
we become "In Christ" -
( 2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore IF ANY MAN BE IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new)
At the moment we are saved we are IN CHRIST - in other words, we are IMMERSED in HIM - and, as we all know, baptism is about being immersed (Some immerse in water - Jesus immerses/baptized us IN HIM - meaning we are IMMERSED/BAPTIZED at that moment in HIS HOLY SPIRIT -as opposed to His physical body)
So, in a nutshell, I believe we are 'baptized in the Holy Spirit' the moment we are saved - I know for myself, I never needed to speak in tongues to get set on FIRE
I believe 'Tongues' are actual earthly languages - ( Acts 2:6 -because that every man heard them speak in his own lang)
I Cor 13:8-10
whether there be tongues, they shall cease... but when that which is PERFECT (God's Word =The Bible) is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. (shortening verses because of space)
The Bible IS COME
And as much as I would agree with you on the 'greater' importance to be baptized with the Holy Spirit (& after all this is the hallmark of the believer, & that which seals & secures him/her eternally), what then do you make of the NT Scriptures that still demonstrate water baptism? Of course, we have Jesus' Own Command to His disciples in Mt 28:19,20 (& I give a few Scriptures relating only to water baptism); Acts 2:38-41; 8:38; 16:33; 19:1-6; 1 Cor 13:13-16. And these were not just Jews only but Gentiles as well. And in any case, once a Jew turns to Christ, Christian baptism is still necessary to demonstrate the act of conversion.
How do you interpret these portions?
The only occasion that I could anticipate that a Christian would not need to be baptized in water would be where there was no one (e.g. an evangelist or personal witness) to share the Gospel with the unbeliever, & that enquiring soul, from the reading of the Word & moving of the Spirit, receives spiritual re-birth. A good example of this are the Apostles, (except Saul who was led to the Lord by Ananias ( Acts 9:1-18)). We never see any testimony or reference by the apostles to their water baptism. Why not? Because they were baptized with the Spirit at Pentecost & were never led to salvation. So, it seems that the one that leads a soul to salvation should ensure (i.e. obeying the command) that water baptism takes place forthwith as a testimony of the great transaction. Sadly, our Churches pay little regard to this clearly defined order & folk are baptized according to their wishes & even decades down the road. There seems little sense to me in doing it this way & may just be a form of 'works' in case "I don't make it to Heaven".
John the Baptist also baptized Jesus in water. As a dove the Holy Spirit pointed Jesus out. John prophesied, this is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.
If you go back into Discussions history pages you will see many pages on comment on this subject: through Jesus and all of his disciples and Paul.
We cannot understand the Bible fully unless we have received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. That's why the Disciples were told by Jesus to await in the Upper Room.
The Holy Spirit is the 3rd person of the Godhead. When He came into the upper room the guys saw tongues of fire. They had a unique supernatural experience that was witnessed by a lot of people. How do you know they were all Jews? This event flowed out into the streets, such was the excitement. I'm sure there were some Gentiles in the area. What are the odds on that? It says they heard their own languages coming from the disciples mouths. It was a city; all kinds of people were around to witness this and Hear it.
It's recorded in the Bible. Jesus wanted this to happen just as it did. He said the Comforter would Come! The disciples KNEW this was the manifestation of what Jesus said! They were beyond JOY that Jesus was with them and in them in a very real way.
They were not alone, fearful, anymore. They had Jesus with them and in them again.
Look in your encyclopedic index in your Bible and look at the list of what all the Holy Spirits ministry is to believers! One: HE is our TEACHER who HELPS us rightly divide the WORD of TRUTH. (I AM the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIFE). We need the Holy Spirit; and His Baptism.
If you are doubting about the gift of tongues; HE will not force it on you! It's for your edification. See? We have to learn from Him first. Be taught by Him. You have to study like a "student" and ask many many questions that are in your mind. And then you've got to get STILL before HIM and LISTEN to Him.
I'll share some of my reasons regarding baptism
Matthew 3:11 - I indeeed baptize you with WATER unto repentance
Who is "I"? It is John the Baptist. What is he baptizing with? Water. Why? For 'repentance' (reviewing one's actions and feeling contrition or regret for past wrongs, which is accompanied by commitment to and actual actions that show and prove a change for the better.)
Who was John baptizing? Jews..What were they repenting of? Dead WORKS
( Matt. 3:11) But he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear:
he shall baptize you with the HOLY GHOST (Spirit), and with FIRE
Who was John talking about? Jesus .So Jesus baptizes us with the Holy Spirit and Fire (Fire is definitely not water)
Then Ephesians 4:4-5 says:
There is ONE body, and ONE Spirit, even as ye are called in ONE hope of your calling;
ONE Lord, ONE faith, ONE baptism
1 = 1 Which baptism is it? by water? or By Fire(= Holy Spirit)?
If I have to pick ONE BAPTISM I choose Jesus'
Now, WHO had John the Bap. been baptizing? JEWS
Who did Jesus come for?
The Jews ( Matt. 15:24)
Who were the apostles first called to go to? The Jews ( Matt. 10:6)
So, Jesus and John the Bap. were just dealing with the Jews at the time (In fact, until He rose again - Jesus' ministry was primarily to the Jews - He even referred to the Gentiles as 'dogs' ( Matt. 15"26)
How does Jesus save? By Grace=NO more WORKS
How would the Jews get saved? By Grace, right?
They needed to turn (def. of 'repentance') away from depending on their works( Heb. 6"1) and depend solely on Jesus to be saved.
John baptized The Jews w/water to show they had repented from depending on the Law
The Gentiles never even knew about the law so they didn't need water baptism
Jesus didn't need the thief on the cross to be baptized by water
And so,water baptism is associated w/the Jews - & it was newly saved Jews who thought it was necc. for ALL, but Paul knew better ( I Cor. 1:17)
Sincer. KG
This will be a multi post reply (If this website allows all of them) as there is a lot to unpack with your questions.
It seems there are some principles that need to be established in order for you to understand my position.
1. We have two Natures. There are several names for the two natures all men struggle between.
The new man and the old man, the flesh and the spirit, the carnal mind and the mind of Christ.
Romans 8:7
For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot.
God's Law is an expression of his nature, only when walking in the spirit (the new man/nature) can we follow it.
Romans 8:8
Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Galatians 3:27
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
(Which ties into this verse)
Matthew 3:11
"I baptize you with water for repentance, but he who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (This is the non literal fire)
Not only in this a spiritual fire but this fire is essential to being saved, which I believe we are not saved until we have endured to the end.
1 Corinthians 3:15
If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.
Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.
Galatians 5:16-17
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.
Galatians 5:24
And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
This theme occurs throughout all of scripture.
Post continues...
You have to know what was going on during Paul's day. There were Jews during Paul's ministry that wanted to put people under The Law ( Acts 15:1), and Paul warned them not to believe in ANY OTHER Gospel 1 Cor 15:1-4.
John The Baptist preached this gospel to ISRAEL ...
Matthew 3:1-2
In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Acts 19:4
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.
Jesus Christ preached The Gospel of the Kingdom to ISRAEL.
Matthew 4:17
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Matthew 4:23
And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.
The Tribulation Gospel will be preached in the future to ISRAEL after The Body of Christ is taken out of here.
You see, WHAT Israel had to believe during Jesus' ministry is NOT The Gospel Paul preached to Jews and Gentiles in this Age of Grace.
Paul's Gospel is THE GOSPEL 1 Cor 15:1-4 we need to believe to be saved today!
Love