Discuss Acts 2 Page 7

Hello Nats:

I prayed for you and God showed me these short answer to your question. God also reveals to me you are a very special person for recognizing God. You are correct Jesus Christ is the Son of God and Jesus never said He is God. God also gave us in scriptures in the Old Testament that God is the LORD (all uppercase). In the New Testament, the Lord (only "L") is Jesus Christ. Since God sent God's "only begotten Son" (5X mentioned in the NT) you will find that Jesus Christ said in John 10:30 "I and my Father are one.". Another very STRONG Bible verses that showed evidences Jesus Christ is God are the following )along with the entire NT and our fellowbelievers whom I believe are considered saints:Giannis and Vince who responded to your comment):

Acts 2:34-36

Luke 20:42-44

Revelation 11:8

Revelation 11:15

Revelation 15:3-4 The song of the Lamb Who is Jesus Christ. These verses I sing in my head all the time.

Revelation 17:4

My friend, I will be happy as much as God will and the entire Body of Christ to hear that you believe Jesus Christ is God. Agape.

Hello Dorothy. No, God did not kill Jesus. Rather, the Romans put Jesus to the Cross to die & Pilate was urged to do so by the demands from the Jews (see Matthew chapter 27 & particularly verse 23). Both the Romans & Jews remain culpable for Jesus' Death.

But God, in His Wisdom & Plan to bring forth a Son to the end that He should lay down His Life for all sinners, had planned for this, for He knew that only He could exact the correct penalty for redeeming sinful man. The Apostle Peter in his messge declared in Acts 2:22,23, "Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain."

Jesus' Death was planned for in eternity past because of God's foreknowledge & Will of God - God planned it for our sakes, but men took it into their own hands to take Jesus' Life. Then, did God force men to kill His Son? No. God knew His Son would be killed, but those men fulfilled their own anger & raging passion & were wholly responsible for Jesus' Death. The Old Testament Scriptures also spoke of Jesus' future Death: Psalm 22:15-18; Isaiah chapter 53; Daniel 9:26. Man is always responsible for his own actions & acts of sin, for by them he will be judged & condemned.

2Corinthians 6:18,

Romans 8:14, Philippians 2:15, 1John 3:2,

Luke 8:48, 1Peter 3:6, Acts 2:17,

Hopefully these are helpful

Since many bros/sis pick verses from the Bible that claim that are for women being pastors, because they are referring to ALL disciples (and that is true) lets use an example from Maths, for one who remembers a few things from school.

Suppose an unknown no. is given represented by 'x'. We are given two conditions for it. The first says 'x' can be any no. from 1-10. The second condition limits the possible values of 'x' to 8-10. Can someone say that 'x' can be, say, 4 because this value satisfies the first condition? No, because the 2nd condition says from 8-10. Now let's go to the verses like Acts 2:17 and many other in the OT and NT. It seems then that 'x' = men and women, so women can be also pastors. But there are other verses/conditions like 1 Timothy 2:15, 1 Cor 14;35, as well as other given by brothers that limit the possible answer. Then its becomes obvious that the only solution that satisfies all verses/'conditions is 'x'=men, isn't it so?

Finally its not right trying to go around verses by using logical thinkiing. "Well, you know, it was an old fashioned world, women sat on the balcony etc". Yes that's true, but does this give me the authority to change the Bible? Take God's position as Lawmaker? Haven't thas sort of things alter the christian church that has become in many aspects unrecognisable nowadays? Some things in the Bible are straightforward, just take them as they are, not arguing but asking God to explain. Assume Apostole Paul suddenly appeared in front of us now. Who would dare and have the courage to argue and disagree with him because he would think that Paul was old fashioned? Any volunteers? Certainly not me.

Blessings to All

Hello Trevor. If you're looking for a reference to the resurrection of Jesus in the Old Testament, the one that readily comes to mind is Psalm 16:8-11.

One could easily interpret this only to the Psalmist David speaking about himself but we can see that, in the Spirit, David speaks about One Who would fulfil these verses perfectly (particularly verse 10). Even the Apostle Peter made reference to this Psalm (in Acts 2:25-33) in his great sermon at Pentecost. And using Psalm 16, Peter refers this to Jesus Christ, and shows that the patriarch David has long been dead & buried, with his tomb still present. But the grave could not hold Jesus, nor did His Body see corruption (deterioration), but God had raised His Son back to life & back to Himself seated at His right Hand.

Part 1

Hellow Jesse. Sorry for my delayed answer but it seems there are a lot to talk about and since I was too busy during the week, here I am now.

a. Baptism in water. My belief is that although it is a symbolism it is still a requirement/condition for salvation. The verse in Mark 16:16 does not allow for any other interpretation that it what it reads. For one to be saved there is series of events that must take place. Some of them done by man, some of them done by God.

GOD REVEALS HIMSELF- man believes-GOD'S WORD CAUSES REPENTANCE-man repents and wants to change-GOD GIVES NEW BIRTH-man gets baptised in water-GOD GIVES SALVATION (SALVATION COMPLETED)

If verses like Mark 16:16 and Acts 2:38 didn't exist then it would be OK to consider bapt. in water as not essential. but they do exist, and personally I think.they are crystal clear.

Question. Even if one considers baptism not necessary, isn't it still a commandment of God. For how long can someone live his christian life ignoring that commandment, being in a continuous disobedience, being, that is, in a sin?

b. John's baptism. That baptism was not only baptism of repentance but it was for the remission of sins. It is clear in Luke 3:3. I don't say it, Luke does, inspired by God, isn't it so? So you ask, since Jesus had not been sacrifised yet how sins were erased by God? The same way that God overlooked sins done by God's people in the Old testament time. And since Jesus was to come later on, God's people that died went to Abraham's place in Hades, later after ressurection they were transfered in Heaven.

So there was a somehow preliminary remission of sins. And Jews in Jesus' time that later believed in Jesus had to go through new birth and the christian baptism later on.

But what is important is that for the Jews to be forgiven had to go through repentance AND baptism, not just repentance, thus revealing how important baptism was. Similarly in christian baptism one has to go through both new birth and baptism

Richard IN 1 Corinthians 12:7 Paul writes concerning the manifestation or one of the nine outward displays of the gift

holy spirit. Best definition I've ever heard is the outward manifestation of the inward prasence of the power of holy

spirit. In the first century church this was not limited to the apostles other believers spoke in tongues and performed

miracles etc. It is interesting to note that to the corinthians in 14:18 Paul states I thank God I speak in tongues more than

ye all. So whats the benefit. Acts 2:11 speaking the wonderful works of God, Private prayer life 1 Cor. 14:4+5 Edification

of our spirit 1 Cor. 14:4, communication with God in divine mysteries or secrets. 1 Cor. 14:2, giving thanks well 1 Cor 14:17

keeps us aware we are Gods children and joint heirs with Christ Roman8:16, helps us with our infirmities Romans8:26,

makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God Romans 8:26+27,strenghthens us with His might in the Inner

man Ephesians 3:16, sign to unbelievers in the church new people 1 Cor.14:12. These are all the wonderful benefits again all

things of God are profitable and glorify Him when operated correctly in order with Gods LOVE. P.S. I've seen many times

these things are more in total confusion. LAST 1 Cor. 14:40 Let everything be done decently and in order. That's Godly Amen

Richard Biblical prophecy is either forthtelling what gods word already promised but the speaker is talking by inspired

utterance or foretelling the future. Examples luke 2:25-35 also ACTS 2:14-37-this is all inspired utterance from holy

spirit of past present and future also not all were judean and it is unscripted. The idea of teaching people that if you give money to God you get blessed in return is a phallacy because you can be giving in other categories to bless the body of Christ and that's honored. Also in the first church i.e. book of Acts show me where people were told to give and I'LL eat the book, people gave because they were delivered and blessed not being told if you don't give God won't bless you. poelpe have so called prophecied

that the united states is going down, that's not prophecy that's already written that any nation that practices or worships the

adversary their land will spew them out. Years ago a believer came to me that went back to a drug problem and wanted help

I told hin to move in but if I see and traces of drugs he's gone. Three days later I came home and he packed his bags and I met

him before he left and he said I'm sorry and I said if you don't change Iwill never see you alive again. Six months later he was

dead, was that prophecy no it was 2 Peter 2:21+22 the dog went back to his own vomit. So when people say God told me this

or that as long as it lines up with it is written fine if not the enemy is expert at what he does.

I love Acts Chapter 2. It is an excellent reminder of the power of the Holy Spirit. Also, I just realized one can print out these verses (or save to pdf). Thank you for this feature.

Hello Mr. Adam Clark:

Here's what I found to back up Malachi message about the "day of the Lord" (29X) from OT to NT. After these verses there's more interesting words God made me focus on as well. So begin our study ( if anybody willing to read) with these verses but do not forget to read the entire chapter or even before and after the chapter for any connecting relevance:

The Lord's vengeance and the year of recompenses for the controversy of the Zion.

Isaiah 2:12; 13:6; 13:9; 34:8

Jeremiah 46:10

Lamentations 2:22

Ezekiel 13:5; 30:3

Joel has spoken about the sun darkened and the moon into blood as reiterates in Acts 2:20

Joel 1:15; 2:1; 2:11; 2:31; 3:14

We pause and pray. It seems the day of the Lord is a great and very terrible day. I pray that ALL will be saved today's Bible study.

Amos 5:18; 5:20

Obadiah 1:15

Zephaniah has spoken that there are people may be saved who seek the righteousness of God

Zephaniah 1:7-8; 1:14; 1:18;2:2-3

Zechariah 14:1

1 Corinthians 5:5

2 Corinthians 1:14

I thank God for Paul that we who are saved will know perfectly when this day would be even if it comes as a thief in the night as mentioned in ( 2 Peter 3:10)

1 Thessalonians 5:2

That is why I think we who truly believes God and have done God's will more likely not experience this day. So we pray earnestly that ALL may be saved. Happy reading.

In answer to the question of Matthew 28:19....

Matthew when he wrote this, was writing the commandment from the Lord to be baptized. (In water - to be immersed).

In Acts 2:38, Peter was obeying this commandment by giving the prescription for salvation - "Repent and be baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus.......and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost"......This promise is to you, your children and them that are afar off, as many as the Lord our God shall call...."

Matthew was there when Peter gave this proclamation as were the other disciples. Peter knew that the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost was indeed the Lord Jesus Christ. (Father Son and Holy Ghost are the titles of the one true God - Jesus - God manifested in the flesh.

Acts 10:48 - And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

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

After this, Phillip also obeyed the commission given by Peter, who interpreted what Matthew said.

And this is I a significant command to be baptized by Paul...

And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,

2He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.

3And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.

4Then 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.

5When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

6And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

7And all the men were about twelve.

Amen.

"Do you believe the words of Apostle Peter? Peter speaks directly about when we are baptized we receive God's Holy Spirit!"

The word, "receive," and "Holy Spirit" are never found in the same verse in the KJV.

On the other hand, "receive/received" and "Holy Ghost" are found here:

John 7:39

John 20:22

Acts 1:8

Acts 2:33

Acts 2:38

Acts 3:21

Acts 8:15

Acts 8:17

Acts 8:19

Acts 9:17

Acts 10:47

Acts 19:2 ("Holy Ghost" is mentioned twice here.)

1 Thessalonians 1:6

Anything we can learn from this?

Ronnette,

The truth is out! Do you believe the words of Jesus?

This comes direct from the mouth of Jesus. Mark 16:16 "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."

Do you believe the words of Apostle Peter? Peter speaks directly about when we are baptized we receive God's Holy Spirit! Acts 2:38 "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."

So, Jesus tells us we must believe and be baptized to be saved. The Apostle Peter whom Jesus Christ built His Church on told us that when we repent, and get baptized, we receive "the gift of the Holy Ghost". Jesus gets baptized to show us how it is done - with water! Matthew 3:16 "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:" What is the spirt of God? It is the Holy Spirit!

As a Christian (A Christ Follower) doesn't it just make sense to follow Jesus words and his actions?

The difference between the water baptism of John and the Water Baptism of Jesus Christ, is that we now receive the promise of the Holy Spirit - per Jesus Christ, and per Peter! From the very beginning of The Church water baptism was the requirement, and is still the requirement today. Jesus and all of the original Apostles (including Paul) didn't change the water baptism requirement.

So, now when we follow the above scripture it all ties together and we comply with the instruction from Jesus speaking to us here; John 3:5 "Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God."

If someone thinks that water baptism is no longer required today, they are ignoring the above scripture and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

GBU

Hi Brain,

Not sure why Matthew Henry chose to go there using 2 Cor. 4:6, when the angel was the one whose countenance was like lightning. Matthew Henry commented it is often mentioned in the New Testament, as the day which Christians religiously observed in solemn assemblies, to the honor of Christ. This can be debated there are as many mentioning they met on the Sabbath because they did not have bibles like we have today and the only way to hear the scriptures was in the temple or synagogues on the Sabbath. We also see in scriptures they met every day of the week Acts 2:46-47.

What is not talked about very much, Jesus rose on the day of the Feast of Firstfruits. That is the first day after the Sabbath after Passover which is the first day of the week. Jesus is the Firstfruits of those who slept, 1 Cor. 15:20. It is also the first day counting each day of the 7 Sabbaths that brings us to the second harvest we call Pentecost that means 50 that is 7 Sabbaths plus 1 day.

The Jewish day starts at sundown at ends at sundown so in Matthew 28:1 Mark 16:2 Luke 24:1 and John 20:1 when the sun went down on the Sabbath it was the first day of the week. The women headed to the tomb with the spices to anoint Jesus and the sun was just about to come up except for Mary Magdalene, she was the first to go and it was still dark, John 20:1 but it was the first day of the week.

Romans 14 should help, if you will study all four accounts of this day it will shine light on many things. As Jesus told the woman at the well John 4:24-25.

Someone said, we are not called to go to church we are called to be the church and that is every day.

God bless,

RLW

The Scriptures about the Godhead. Sometimes called "Let Us..." in some passages. These scriptures are evidence of all 3 persons of the Godhead speaking to each other.

Genesis 1:26, 3:22, 11:7

Isaiah 6:8

Romans 1:20*

Colossians 2:9

Acts 17:27-30

1 John 5:7

John 10:30

"For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and GODHEAD so that they are without excuse:"

Genesis 1:1

The Father purposes

The Word (Jesus) speaks. ( John 1:1)

The Spirit (Holy Spirit) executes the spoken word. Action.

All working together. Jesus came to show us the Father, as Emmanuel.

Matthew 1:23

Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God WITH US. [Jesus]

{Comment} Jesus came to bring to each born again believer; the baptism and the in-dwelling of the Holy Spirit.

[ Genesis 1:2, John 3:6, Acts 2:1-3, John 16: 7-15]

Upon being born again, Jesus gives the Holy Spirit to teach us scripture, comfort us, convict us of sin, enable us to be witnesses. Stay in the New Testament at first.

Mishael

Job 23:14

For HE (the Father, Spirit, Life) performeth the thing that is appointed for me (the Body).......

Philippians 2:13 For it is God (the Father, Spirit, Life) that worketh in you (the Body) both TO WILL and TO DO his good pleasure.

Ephesians 4:4 ONE BODY .....ONE SPIRIT .....

Ephesians 4:6 ONE GOD and Father of ALL .....

Not many BELIEVE that the LIFE in their BODY is CHRIST.

Matthew 7:14 Because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way, that leadeth unto LIFE, and few there be that find it.

John 10:10 .....I am come that they might HAVE LIFE ......

John 19:28 I give unto them ETERNAL LIFE ...

1 Timothy 6:18 WHO only (CHRIST ONLY) hath immortality, dwelling in the LIGHT which no man can approach unto .....

John 11:25 I am the resurrection, and THE LIFE .....

John 14:6 ....I am THE LIFE .....

John 20:31 ....and that BELIEVING you might have LIFE through HIS NAME .....

Revelation 22:4 ....and HIS NAME shall be in their foreheads .....

Revelation 3:12 ...and I will write upon him MY NAME .....

Acts 2:38 ....be ye baptised every one of you IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST .....

John 17:21 That they all may be ONE, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also be ONE IN US ......

God Bless You.

Bro Alex

You stated to Bro Giannis: "But Giannis Jesus neva commands water baptism"

I don't know what bible you are reading.it can't be the KJV! Water baptism is required!

Jesus specifically states right here in scripture that we MUST be Water Baptized!

Mark 16:16

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

Jesus is telling us point blank: If we want to receive Salvation we must Believe and be Baptized!

Jesus also tells us below how we must be born of water and the Holy Spirit to enter into Heaven.

John 3:5

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

Apostle Peter tells us how we will receive "The Holy Spirit

Acts 2:38

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

We don't receive the Holy Spirit by just believing.we MUST believe and be Baptized. Period!

All of the above scripture ties everything together, and confirms what is required by Jesus/God to receive the Holy Spirt and ultimately our Salvation.

In order to believe the way that you do - you have to ignore all of this scripture!

GB you

I wished to elaborate as I have previously on this subject. The scriptures indicate what Christ did; while his body was in the grave and His Spirit went to the lower parts of the earth. First off; since He created all things and His work was finished when He died on the cross; He was certainly NOT suffering in hell. (Sorry the point is too important not to shout). Those who would proclaim such things are in grievous error. The scriptures indicate that He said to the thief on the cross "Today you shall be with me in Paradise." ( Luke 23:43). However; 3 days later scriptures indicate that captivity was made captive ( Psalm 68:18 says it best; it also is stated in Ephesians 4:8 and a few other places). Thus; the bodies of some saints after the Resurrection came out of their graves ( Matthew 27:52-3) and the souls of men now all go to heaven who are saved; while those lost only go to the torment section of Sheol. ( 2 Cor. 5:6). The message therefore was a declaration of victory; to the Nephilim who were bound up already for their particular sin of fornication with women ( 2 Peter 2:4) as well as to the rest of those human souls in darkness. See also Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:27

This is somewhat similar to the message that will come out in the Tribulation. The Rapture may be hid to some; but the graves being opened up worldwide surely will NOT be able to be hidden. Clearly; by the sixth seal there will be no atheists. Thus; no Gospel message will be necessary to explain to the world that Jesus is Lord; but a declaration of the Kingdom about to appear on earth; and the judgments to come. In a way these events are characteristic of the end of each dispensation; when judgment is pronounced or at the very least the end of a given Kingdom or civilization when their transgressions come to the full ( Genesis 15:16).

Some teach that based on interpretation of; Isaiah 42:7, 1Peter 3:18-19, Ecclesiastes 4:14-16, Psalms 142:7, Isaiah 53:7-12, Revelation 1:17-18, Matthew 12:38-45, Luke 11:29-32, Ephesians 4:8-10, Psalms 86:13, Acts 2:27,31, Psalms 16:10, but none of these are clearly stated nor defined so. Jonah 2:2,

Luke 16:22-31,

I guess my question is why?

Jesus has all authority: Luke 12:5, Luke 9:1, Mark 1:27, 1Corinthians 15:24, Matthew 28:18, Job 26:6, Psalms 139, Revelation 1:18,

Revelation 20, 2Peter 2:4,

Let's not divide over these issues, James 3:6,

Hopefully these are helpful in your study

Baptism is a big deal to God. Such a big deal, a person was sent in advance of Jesus specifically to baptize people to prepare for Jesus. It was a big deal to Jesus that He was baptized Himself, and invited those around Him to be baptized. It's such a big deal it even says in the Bible to be baptized. It's written in the form of a command. It is a conditional statement. Do this, and this is the result. Whether someone likes it or not salvation is mentioned in the same sentence in Acts 2:38 for example. Also read: Acts 22:16, 1 Peter 3:21, John 3:5, Galatians 3:26-27, Mark 16:16, John 3:5, Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 2:41.

Just as people were resistant to follow Jesus in His day, we have people who read the above verses and dismiss them as important or "unnecessary." Man tries so hard to perform mental gymnastics to avoid doing something God wants us to do. He comes up with all these creative interpretations of cherry picked verses claiming that when it says to be baptized, it doesn't actually mean it, or is symbolic, or no longer applies, or [fill in the blank].

What it comes down to is do you believe the Bible verses above or not? Do want to follow Jesus or not?

Is there a risk of being baptized? No.

Is there a risk of not being baptized? Yes.

How is this not an easy decision?

Bible clearly says to be baptized, but why is someone who wants to follow Jesus so adamant about not doing it? Physically you're wet for a couple minutes, then you dry off. Similar to what most people normally do daily anyway. So, the hesitancy probably isn't because of that. What else would motivate people to try so hard to disobey Jesus then? Embarrassment? Many do it publicly, but you can also do it privately. What else makes people so desperate to disobey Jesus then? Something inside them is resisting. Maybe searching ones heart and motives and praying and study of the scriptures might help reveal ones real motives behind this.

Bro Giannis,

One of the Main Events in the bible. Jesus is baptized and receives the Holy Spirit and it pleases God! If this isn't a learning teachable event for us - nothing is! Jesus provided us with his examples to follow, hence as Christ followers we should be striving to follow Him.

Matthew 3:16

"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:"

Jesus shows us how it is done, and if He does it, and instructs everyone to do it, where do we improve our standing with God - if we ignore His command?

Jesus commands the diciples to baptize believers.

Matthew 28:19

"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"

If the apostles would have ignored Jesus command to baptize would this have been good for them? If all of the apostles, including Paul believed that baptism was required, why should we believe any different than they?

Peter tells us that when we repent, and submit to baptism we receive the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:38

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

So, Jesus/God tells us in so much scripture, that when we believe, repent, and get baptized - we are forgiven of our sins, and we receive the Holy Spirit!

The above scripture is so easy to understand, even a child can understand the need to follow God's instructions regarding this issue.

GBU

Hello Vicki. Ps. Dollar would have quoted from Malachi 3:8-10. He would probably also have said that this passage pertained to Israel who neglected to perform all that was required of them. In one passage ( Deuteronomy 12:6,11), the LORD instructed Israel that when they got to the Promised Land, that all their sacrifices, offerings, tithes, & vows were to come over as well & nothing to be left behind or undone. But in Malachi, the tithes that were made (the tenth of their farm produce gain) were not being brought forward & kept back by them. These tithes were needed & used by the priests & Levites serving at the Tabernacle for their support.

This command of tithing wasn't given nor applied to the Church, as the Church (at least in New Testament times), didn't have paid clergy or even a rented building & utilities supplied. Their giving was for the needs of one another & maybe their community ( Acts 2:41-47), thereby fulfilling the Command of Christ to love the LORD thy God and to love your neighbour as yourself. But as the Church grew & spread, the Apostle Paul made the believers aware that some of their Jerusalem brethren weren't doing so well in material things. So Paul sometimes collected stuff to take to them ( 1 Corinthians 16:1-3). So apart from these instances of providing relief to those in need, we don't read that tithing was practised. Rather, that Christians should not give grudgingly but willingly & cheerfully ( 2 Corinthians 9:6-8).

So, as much as tithing is not prescribed for the Church today, I believe that it should be a proper & sacrificial response to help in the support of a Church ministry, that now has far more expenses than the early Church. And not limited to a tenth on one's earnings, but also to share more if possible for other programs & missionary endeavours of the Church. But we're not limited to giving ten percent nor are we compelled to do so.

Gigi.

Part 3.

John said I baptize with water he who is coming after me shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire.

Now, Is Jesus still baptizing with the Holy Ghost? Yes. He does that through the preaching of the gospel and you receiving the message through open eyes and a blood tipped ear. This call goes out to jew and Gentiles, Before the crucifixion Christ was gathering the lost sheep of Israel, The king was in their midst and the kingdom was at hand, John the baptist came to pronounce that. Did Jesus ask the Disciples to baptize the lost sheep of Israel or anyone else BEFORE they crucified him, No. His Death had to bring on a new covenant. The circumcision of the heart. No more a commandment, IT'S NOW A CONDITION. Hebrews 8:6-11. He now put his law in man's heart. "Circumcision of the heart"

and only the baptism of the Holyspirit can do that. In Acts 2:38 the jews was asked to repent, this was very new to them.

Again, this was all Israel.

see Acts 2:36.

Now, everyone taught didn't believe, were they baptized? No, You had to believe. see Acts 8:35-37.

"Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.

And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; WHAT DOTH HINDER ME TO BE BAPTIZED?

And Philip said, IF THOU BELIEVEST WITH ALL THINE HEART, THOU MAYEST. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Note:

1 Corinthians 12:13.

Ephesians 4:4-5.

We're put into the body by that 1 baptism and that's the baptism John the baptist referred Israel to. The Holy Ghost.

Matthew 28:18-19. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, ALL POWER IS GIVEN UNTO ME IN HEAVEN AND IN EARTH.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Do you notice no ask of repentance?

This is beyond Jerusalem. This power is of Jesus, His baptism.

God bless.

QUESTION?

Ephesians 4:4 ONE Body, ONE Spirit ......

Ephesians 4:5 ONE Lord, ONE Faith, ONE Baptism,

Ephesians 4:6 ONE God and Father of ALL .....

What is this ONE?

Is it physical water, or LIVING WATER?

1 Corinthians 1:20 For all the promises of God IN HIM ARE YEA ....

CAN YOU PLEASE GOD?

Matthew 19:21 ......go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor ......

Acts 2:41 ....and were baptised ....this whole chapter is about the outpouring of the Holy ghost ....so it it batpism of physical water of living water?

Acts 2:45 ....and sold their possessions and goods and parted them to all men .....

If it's water baptism, and you are trying to please God why not go and sell all you possessions; also, and part them to men.

Coming to TRUTH is what pleases God.

Philippians 2:13 For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do his pleasure.

The life in you is Christ, the faith in you is Christ's faith, the works are Christ's works, the baptism in you is the baptism of Christ (the Holy Ghost):

YOU ARE THE BODY OF CHRIST.

John 14:6 .....I AM .... LIFE ......

John 11:25 .....I AM ....... the RESURRECTION .....

Revelation 20:6 Blesses and HOLY is he that hath part in the first RESURRECTION ....

TRUTH! ....will set you free!

You died on the cross; Christ was resurrected and gave YOU HIS LIFE.

Colossians 3:3 For you are dead, and your life is HID IN CHRIST with GOD.

ONE ....ONE .....ONE .....ONE .....ONE

1 Corinthians 15:28 .....that God may be all (ONE) in all (ONE).

God Bless ALL.

Thank you GiGi for sharing that info. I didn't realize that the Church started to deviate from accepted practise at such an early stage. Just shows how easily we can be led away from the Bible & re-construct beliefs & practises to suit our Church dogma. And once we begin to stray a little at the beginning, one can rest assured that years & decades later, our beliefs & practises will hardly resemble what the early Church first received.

What should have been a simple straight-forward process of hearing the Gospel (as shared by Peter in Acts 2:14-36), many being cut in the heart ( Acts 2:37), repenting, being baptized & receiving the Holy Spirit ( Acts 2:38), today, in wanting to ensure that water baptism is not entered into lightly, there can be a delay in time of weeks, months, or years. Baptism then becomes something done as a mere ritual not giving regard to it being a necessary, immediate & accompanying part to one's repentance & belief. And we see this with Saul's conversion, Cornelius & those with him, the Philippian jailer, & the Ethiopian eunuch. There would have been no reason for any of these to raise objection to being water baptized, as the practise was simply, 'believe & be baptized' (they went hand-in-hand).

Not so according to today's Church, where one's faith has to be first clearly seen, having at least a basic knowledge of essential doctrines, & waiting, sometimes indefinitely, for the next planned water baptismal service. Is it any wonder why there is confusion & differing beliefs on this matter, when the Church itself has done nothing to rectify it, often leaving it as an optional extra for the new believer. The onus for baptism rests solely on the evangelist/preacher/missionary & not the convert, that as he enters this new spiritual world, he also enters into a new spiritual family who will look after him as a new-born babe, directing & teaching him till others can minister - and water baptism is the first step in his spiritual life.

"if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

".....everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Acts 2:21

Father please have mercy on them, us and all in need. Thank you and praise you. In your holy name I pray Lord Jesus. Amen.

What I find noteworthy about the baptism debate is that some seem to work hard to avoid something while others work hard to follow God's commands. Which one is priority? Is it normal for a genuine Christ followers to do the very minimum, or is it more healthy for Christ followers to be excited about following ALL of God's commands without hesitation or excuse? What is the greater risk? To risk disobeying God or to risk potentially doing something extra to honor God?

Acts 2:38 ...Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ...

"Surely not me though, it doesn't say it in other verses..."

"every one of you"

"Not Christians though"

"every one of you"

"probably not me though"

"every one of you"

"because of [excuse] I can't though"

"every one of you"

"I'm sure there's some other verses I can cherry pick to get out of this, though..."

"every one of you"

"No thanks, I don't feel like it."

John 14:15 "If ye love me, keep my commandments."

Luke 6:46 - "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?"

James 1:22 - "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."

*Q: My friends say that if you are not baptized in Jesus' name and filled with the Holy Ghost then I'm not saved and going to hell! Is that true? I believe Jesus is God and came to earth to save us from sins.

*A: The Bible indicates that baptism is not required in order to have your sins forgiven and spend eternity with God. If we were to look at the passages in the New Testament that discuss "being saved" or "salvation," we would discover that only 5 of 27 mention baptism. Not one of those five teach baptism is required to be saved. The five references to baptism are found in Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Acts 2:38 and 1 Pet. 3:21. When only five out of twenty-seven passages refer to baptism, we must ask, "Is baptism required in order to have our sins forgiven?" If baptism is essential for salvation, why was it not mentioned in the other twenty-two passages? Why would God allow that to happen? If it is needed to be saved, then very important information was left out. If we look at the five passages closely, we discover that the passages do not teach that baptism is required in order to be saved, that is, to have our sins forgiven. We would encourage you to read the study titled, "Baptism and Salvation." It explains that those five passages do not teach that baptism is necessary. Baptism is only a symbol of your faith. Being baptized is an act of an inner submission to Jesus. But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.*But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law*.But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Gal. 5:16, 18, 2 ***But if one is a Christian, one will get baptized as an act of obedience; and the Holy Spirit will do a work in one's life to make one more like Jesus. Then we will see the fruit of the Spirit. God bless & be w/all misinterpriters

If we would realize how great our God (Jesus Christ) is . According to Ephesians 4:5 1LORD,1 FAITH, 1 BAPTISM. There would not be so much confusion in who God is. There is over 2000 different religions? Why ? There is only 1God 1 Lord 1Faith 1baptism . What I am trying to say is we believe the Bible like we should and stop following traditions. There wouldn't be so much confusion in the Church organization. The confusion should be out in the World. Our Lord is Jesus Christ, Our faith is based on the Apostles doctrine. One baptism Acts 2:38 Than Peter said unto them Repent and be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Than we can thank God who he really is. David I really believe in this chapter knew God is one , and one Lord. That's why He had such a great relationship with God before trouble came he knew God. Than when we get in a place of trouble we know what our God - JESUS CHRIST CAN do, He's my Sword my shield,my deliver. I want tell a testimony that happen awhile ago. In a large city of 850,000 people. We went out to eat, than came back to our Hotel . Our daughter and her family stay at one end of Hotel,were the stairs is. My wife and I at the other end. So about 15minutes pass by ,we our about to lay down. I hear a small tap at the door. ,I was by the door already,

I look at my wife and said to her did you hear that ? I answer it ! I said who is it ? This little voice said it's me! I opened the door,to my surprise its our youngest granddaughter . She looked frighten,so we said were's your Mom ? My wife took a look outside the room,Hm no one there. So we thought they dropped her by to get some rest. My wife took her back to our Daughter & Son n Law room. Didn't realize she slipped out. From that moment they were in shock thinking what could of happened. My wife came back to our room & told me that they were all asleep,she WALK out.We gave God praise for his MERCY!

Dear Texsis

Having in mind scripture like the following:

1 Peter 3:21

"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:"

Mark 16:16

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

Matthew 28:19

'"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:"

Acts 2:38

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

Acts 2:41

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

Matthew 3:13-15

"Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.

But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?

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."

If Jesus had to be baptized John's baptism to "fulfill all righteousness" and John had to step back to allow that, what about us been baptized the christian baptism to fulfill God's righteousness? Baptism is not symbolic, it is essential for fulfilling God's righteousness, essential for our salvation.

GBU