Date 25th June 2015
WE BELIEVE the Bible to
be inspired of God; the infallible Word of God. "All scripture is given by
inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction,
for instruction in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16).
The Bible is the only God-given authority which man possesses; therefore, all doctrine, faith, hope, and all instruction for the church must be based upon, and harmonize with, the Bible. It is to be read and studied by all men everywhere, and can only be clearly understood by those who are anointed by the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:27)."... no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost" (2 Peter 1:20, 21).
THE ONE TRUE GOD
We believe in the one ever-living, eternal God: infinite in power, Holy in nature, attributes and purpose; and possessing absolute, indivisible deity. This one true God has revealed Himself as Father, through His Son, in redemption; and as the Holy Spirit, by emanation. (1 Cor. 8:6; Eph. 4:6; 2 Cor. 5:19; Joel 2:28). The Scripture does more than attempt to prove the existence of God; it asserts, assumes and declares that the knowledge of God is universal. (Romans 1:19, 21, 28, 32; 2:15). God is invisible, incorporeal, without parts, without body, and therefore free from all limitations. He is Spirit (John 4:24), and a spirit hath not flesh and bones. (Luke 24:39). The first of all the commandments is, hear, 0 Israel; the Lord our God is one Lord" (Mark 12:29; Deut. 6:4). "One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all" (Eph. 4:6). This one true God manifested Himself in the Old Testament in divers ways; in the Son while He walked among men; as the Holy Spirit after the ascension. THE SON OF GOD The one true God, the Jehovah of the Old Testament, took upon Himself the form of man, and as the Son of man, was born of the virgin Mary. As Paul says "and without controversy great is the mystery of Godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory" (1 Timothy 3:16). "He came unto His own, and His own received Him not" (John 1:11). This one true God was manifest in the flesh, that is, in His Son Jesus Christ. ". . God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them. . ." (2 Cor. 5:19). We believe that, ". . in Him (Jesus) dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (Col. 2:9). "For it pleased the Father that in Him should all fulness dwell" (Col. 1:19). Therefore, Jesus in His humanity was man; in His deity was and is God. His flesh was the lamb, or the sacrifice of God. He is the only mediator between God and man. "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5). Jesus on His Father's side was divine, on His mother's side, human; Thus, He was known as the Son of God and also the son of man, or the God-man. "For He hath put all things under His feet. But when He saith all things are put under Him, it is manifest that He is excepted, which did put all things under Him" (1 Cor. 15:27). "And when all things shall be subdued unto Him, then shall the Son also Himself be subject unto Him that put all things under Him, that God may be all in all" (1 Cor. 15:28). "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty" (Rev. 1:8). THE NAME God used different titles, such as "God Elohim", "El Shaddai", "Jehovah", and especially "Jehovah Lord", the redemptive name in the Old Testament. "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: ... and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). This prophecy of Isaiah was fulfilled when the Son of God was named, "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His People from their sins" (Matt. 1:21). "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). CREATION OF MAN AND HIS FALL In the beginning God created man innocent, pure and holy; but through the sin of disobedience, Adam and Eve, the first of the human race, fell from their holy state, and God banished them from Eden. Hence by one man's disobedience, sin entered into the world. (Gen. 1:27; Rom. 3:23, 5:12). REPENTANCE AND CONVERSION Pardon and forgiveness of sins is obtained by genuine repentance, a confessing and forsaking of sins. We are justified by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1). John the Baptist preached repentance, Jesus proclaimed it, and the Apostles emphasized it to both Jews and Gentiles. (Acts 2:38, 11:18, 17:30). The word "repentance" comes from several Greek words which mean, change of views and purpose, change of heart, change of mind, change of life, to transform, etc. Jesus said, -except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish" (Luke 13:3). Luke 24:47 says, "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." WATER BAPTISM The scriptural mode of baptism is immersion, and is only for those who have fully repented, having turned from their sins and a love of the world. It should be administered by a duly authorized minister of the Gospel, in obedience to the Word of God, and in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, according to the Acts of the Apostles 2:38, 8:16, 10:48, 19:5; thus obeying and fulfilling Matthew 28:19. THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRIT John the Baptist, in Matthew 3:11, said, "...He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire." Jesus, in Acts 1:5, said, "...ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." Luke tells us in Acts 2:4, they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues (languages), as the Spirit gave them utterance." The terms "baptize with the Holy Ghost and fire," "filled with the Holy Spirit," and the "gift of the Holy Ghost" are synonymous terms used interchangeably in the Bible. It is scriptural to expect all who receive the gift, filling, or baptism of the Holy Spirit to receive the same physical, initial sign of speaking with other tongues. The speaking with other tongues, as recorded in Acts 2:4, 10:46, and 19:6, and the gift of tongues, as explained in 1 Corinthians, chapters 12 and 14, are the same in essence, but different in use and purpose. The Lord, through the Prophet Joel, said, I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh; ..." (Joel 2:28). Peter, in explaining this phenomenal experience, said, having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, He (Jesus) hath shed forth this which ye now see and hear." (Acts 2:33). Further, "...The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." (Acts 2:39). FUNDAMENTAL DOCTRINE The basic and fundamental doctrine of this organization shall be the Bible standard of full salvation, which is repentance, baptism in water by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the baptism of the Holy Ghost with the initial sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance. We shall endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit until we all come into the unity of the faith, at the same time admonishing all brethren that they shall not contend for their different views to the disunity of the body. DIVINE HEALING The first covenant that the Lord (Jehovah) made with the children of Israel after they were brought out of Egypt was a covenant of healing. The Lord said, ". . if thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the Lord (Jehovah-Rapha, the Lord that healeth) thy God, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians; for I am the Lord that healeth thee." (Exodus 15:26). Some translations read: "For I am Jehovah, thy physician," He being our physician or doctor, we have the most capable in the whole world. Our Lord Jesus Christ went about Galilee, preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and disease among the people. (Matthew 4:23, 24). "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). The vicarious suffering of the Lord Jesus Christ paid for the healing of our bodies, the same as for the salvation of our souls, for with His stripes we are healed" (Isaiah 53:5). Matthew 8:17 reads, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses" (See also I Peter 2:24). We see from this that divine healing for the body is in the atonement. That being true, then it is for all who believe. Jesus said of believers, ". . they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." Later, James wrote in his Epistle to all the churches: "Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:14-16). All of these promises are for the church today. SACRAMENT OR COMMUNION On the night of our Lord's betrayal, He ate the Passover supper with His Apostles, after which He instituted the sacrament. "And He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, this is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper saying, this cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you." (Luke 22:19-20). Paul instructed the church how to observe it (I Cor. 11:23-34). Thus was instituted the use of literal bread and the fruit of the vine, which are partaken of literally, as emblems of His broken body and shed blood. There is also a spiritual significance and blessing in partaking of the sacrament. FOOT WASHING When the Passover supper was ended, we read in John 13:4-5, "He riseth from supper, and laid aside His garments; and took a towel, and girded Himself. After that He poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded." Jesus said, "If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you" (John 13:14-15). This first example was given by our Lord, and it is a divine institution. It is well to follow His example and wash one another's feet; thus manifesting the spirit of humility. HOLINESS Godly living should characterize the life of every child of the Lord, and we should live according to the pattern and example given in the Word of God. "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and Godly, in this present world" (Titus 2:11,12). "For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps: who did no sin, neither was 'guile found in His mouth: who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed himself to Him that judgeth righteously" (1 Peter 2:21-23). "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Heb. 12:14). "But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, be ye holy; for I am holy. And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:15-19). We wholeheartedly disapprove of our people indulging in any activities which are not conducive to good Christianity and Godly living, such as theaters, dances, mixed bathing, women cutting their hair, make-up, any apparel that immodestly exposes the body, all worldly sports and amusements, and unwholesome radio programs and music. Furthermore, because of the display of all these evils on television, we disapprove of any of our people having television sets in their homes. We admonish all of our people to refrain from any of these practices in the interest of spiritual progress and the soon coming of the Lord for His church. THE GRACE OF GOD "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and Godly, in this present world" (Titus 2:11,12). "For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ" (John 1:17). A Christian, to keep saved, must walk with God and keep himself in the love of God (Jude 21) and in the grace of God. The word "grace" means "favor." When a person transgresses and sins against God, he loses his favor. If he continues to commit sin and does not repent, he will eventually be lost and cast into the lake of fire. (Read John 15:2, 6; 2 Peter 2:20-21). Jude speaks of the backsliders of his day, and their reward. (Also, read Hebrews 6:4-6). "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God" (Eph. 2:8). RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS We understand the scripture to teach the restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began. (Acts 3:21). But we cannot find where the devil, his angels, and all sinners are included. (See Rev. 20:10). CONSCIENTIOUS SCRUPLES We recognize the institution of human government as being of divine ordination, and, in so doing, affirm unswerving loyalty to our Government; however, we take a definite position regarding the bearing of arms or the taking of human life. As followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, we believe in implicit obedience to His commandments and precepts which instruct us as follows: ".. that ye resist not evil. . ." (Matt. 5:39): "Follow peace with all men..." (Heb. 12:14). (See also Matt. 26:52; Rom. 12:19; James 5:6; Revelation 13:10). These we believe and interpret to mean Christians shall not shed blood nor take human life. Therefore, we propose to fulfill all the obligations of loyal citizens, but are constrained to declare against participating in combatant service in war, armed insurrection, property destruction, aiding or abetting in or the actual destruction of human life. Furthermore, we cannot conscientiously affiliate with any union, boycott, or organization which will force or bind any of its members to belong to any organization, perform any duties contrary to our conscience, or receive any mark, without our right to affirm or reject same (1930). However, we regret the false impression created by some groups or so-called "conscientious objectors" that to obey the Bible is to have a contempt for law or magistrates, to be disloyal to our Government and in sympathy with our enemies, or to be unwilling to sacrifice for the preservation of our commonwealth. This attitude would be as contemptible to us as to any patriot. The Word of God commands us to do violence to no man. It also commands us that first of all we are to pray for rulers of our country. We, therefore, exhort our members to freely and willingly respond to the call of our Government except in the matter of bearing arms. When we say service, we mean service-no matter how hard or dangerous. The true church has no more place for cowards than has the nation. First of all, however, let us earnestly pray that we will with honor be kept out of war. We believe that we can be consistent in serving our Government in certain noncombatant capacities, but not in the bearing of arms. (1940). We further believe that our military personnel must live in a manner consistent with the Articles of Faith. SECRET SOCIETIES, ETC. According to the Word of God, we firmly believe and hold that the people of God should have no connection whatever with secret societies or any other organization or body wherein there is a fellowship with unbelievers, bound by an oath. (James 5:12; 2 Cor. 6:14-18). TRANSLATION OF SAINTS We believe that the time is drawing near when our Lord shall appear; then the dead in Christ shall arise, and we who are alive and remain shall be caught up with them to meet our Lord in the air. (1 Thess. 4:13-17; 1 Cor. 15:51-54; Phil. 3:20-21). MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE "Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery:" (Matt. 19:9). (Matt. 5:32), When this sin has been committed, the innocent party may be free to remarry only in the Lord. Our desire being to raise a higher standard for the ministry, we recommend that ministers do not marry again. Judgment begins at the House of God. See instructions for the ministry under Article VII, Sec. 8. TITHING We believe tithing is God's financial plan to provide for His work, and has been since the days of Abraham. Tithing came with faith under Abraham, Moses' law enjoined it, and Israel practiced it when she was right with God; Jesus indorsed it (Matt. 23:23); and Paul said to lay by in store as God has prospered you. Do not rob God of His portion, viz., tithes and offerings. (Read Mall 3). SECOND COMING OF JESUS That Jesus is coming again the second time in person, just as He went away, is clearly set forth by the Lord Jesus Himself, and was preached and taught in the early Christian church by the apostles; hence, the children of God today are earnestly, hopefully, looking forward to the glorious event. (Matt. 24; Acts 1:11, 3:19-21; 1 Cor.. 11:26; Phil. 3:20-21; 1 Thess.. 4:14-17; Titus 2:13, 14). THE MILLENNIUM Moreover, we believe that the distress upon the earth is the "beginning of sorrows" and will become more intense until there "shall be a time of trouble such as there never was since there was a nation even to that same time" (Matthew 24:3-8, Dan. 12:1), and that period of "tribulation" will be followed by the dawn of a better day on earth and that for a thousand years there shall be "peace on earth and good will toward men." (Rev. 20:1-5; Isa. 65:17-25; Matt.. 5:5; Dan. 7:27; Mic.. 4:1, 2; Heb. 2:14; Rom. 11:25-27). FINAL JUDGMENT When the thousand years are finished, there shall be a resurrection of all the dead, who will be summoned before the great white throne for their final judgment, and all whose names are not found written in the Book of Life shall be cast into the lake of fire, burning with brimstone which God bath prepared for the Devil and his angels, Satan himself being cast in first. (Matt.. 25:41; Rev. 20:7, 15, 21:8). PUBLIC SCHOOL ACTIVITIES We disapprove of school students attending shows, dances, dancing classes, theatres, engaging in school activities against their religious scruples, and wearing gymnasium clothes which immodestly expose the body. We disapprove of school students being forced to take coeducational classes which involve boys and girls being mixed together in swimming, calisthenics, baseball, and other mixed athletics while clothed in ungodly attire which immodestly exposes the body. We disapprove of school students being forced to take any classes in which, under the guise of health classes, sex education is taught coeducationally or films or lectures are given that promote amoral or unnatural behavior. We disapprove of school students being forced to be taught by or listen to those who promote or advocate sexual activity of any kind other than that within the bonds of the marriage relationship of husband and wife. RELIGIOUS HOLIDAY The annual Conference is declared to be an International Religious Holiday for all members and all members are urged to attend. |
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A Sanctuary Bus -
By Cindy Meadows
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"The light of the uncompromisingly righteous (is within him -
it grows brighter and) rejoices, but the lamp of the wicked (furnishes only a
deprived, temporary light and) shall be put out shortly" (Proverbs 13:9,
Amplified Bible).
I love two parts of this verse - "the light of the righteous
grows brighter," and it "rejoices." There's no mistake about it,
God has put an ever brightening light within us and it is a rejoicing light! There's
joy in us, for us, and for those who come in contact with us. His light and joy
are contagious, infectious and annihilating
to the darkness that would try to engulf us.
I admit we daily see our world violently convulse around us. The
tsunamis of anguish and heartache are increasing and we seem miniscule in
comparison to the surges and waves of sorrow that roll in so relentlessly. Our
hearts hurt. What light, what joy, you might say? If ever you wondered if your
life and your light made a difference, you should not wonder today. He has
declared that our light will grow bright within
us and it will be a rejoicing light. We have come to the kingdom
with brightness for the midnight. We will be encouraging bearers of light
and witnesses for Him in the darkness as never before.
Gordon McDonald in his book The Life God Blesses tells a story
about a Sanctuary Bus. It is most fascinating to me. He tells of
regularly riding shuttle buses in New York and befriending the drivers. He
would also have breakfast with them sometime. One morning one of the drivers
commented on how Mr. McDonald got to live such an exciting life -
traveling, speaking and meeting new people. All he got to do, the driver
complained, was drive a stupid bus.
Gordon challenged him on the spot about his perspective and
injected the concept that God will make any job interesting if we really
believe He wants to use us. He suggested that the driver should go to his
bus, close the doors each morning, face the empty seats and pray, "In the
name of Jesus, I declare this bus a sanctuary
for the next eight hours. And I declare that all the people who
enter this sanctuary will experience the love of Christ through me whether they
realize it or not!"
Long story, short the bus driver had a powerful, life-changing
experience. He no
longer drove an ordinary bus, but a sanctuary each day. He
was kinder, more caring,
and found his love and compassion greatly increased. As he took
more interest in
his passengers, he found his boredom was replaced with
excitement. It's amazing
to me, how much light we conceal, when God is yearning for
us to let Him shine.
Like Proverbs says, "the light of the righteous
rejoices." He's put a light in me, He's put a light in you, and it's a
rejoicing light...infectious, contagious and the highest dispeller of
darkness. Is your light permeating? Is there rejoicing in your spirit?
What are you driving today? No matter where you work or what you
do, turn your surroundings into a sanctuary, and pray for God to
fill the atmosphere with His rejoicing light. There's no greater magnetism, no
greater cure. We are truly His salt and His light. It's all in what you are
driving today - a stupid bus or a sanctuary!
=======================
Why Did God Choose Tongues?
Introduction
He was a deacon in a fashionable church, but he did not believe in
the Pentecostal doctrine relative to the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Yet he had
been exposed to that belief through members of his immediate family. One night,
at the close of an Evangelistic service in an Apostolic church, he went forward
to pray and was overwhelmingly filled with the Spirit of God. He spoke in other
tongues fluently and was so inundated in the Spirit that even hours later he
could not speak English. Definitely, this was a biblical experience accompanied
not only by speaking in another tongue, but also by the joy and peace of the
Holy Ghost.
Millions have experienced this same baptism in the Spirit.
Wherever this message is proclaimed, the question is asked, "Why did God
choose speaking in tongues as the initial, physical evidence of the baptism of
the Holy Ghost?" There may be many answers to this question, and perhaps
we do not know them all. Several key points are apparent, however.
The Sovereignty of God
First, we must recognize that God is not accountable to us for
what He chooses to do. Isaiah asked, "Who hath directed the Spirit of the
LORD, or being his counsellor hath taught him? With whom took he counsel, and
who instructed him, and taught him in the path of judgment, and taught him
knowledge, and shewed to him the way of understanding?" (Isaiah 40:13-14).
We have no license to question God's ways or to dispute His actions. His
purposes are supreme, His promises sure, His performances sane and sensible.
The following passages of Scripture, when studied prayerfully with a hungry
heart and an open mind, show that there is a definite connection between
speaking in tongues and the baptism of the Holy Ghost: Isaiah 28:11-12; Mark
16:17; Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:6; Romans 8:15-16; Galatians 4:6.
Why did God choose blood as the basis for atonement? Why did God
choose water as the element in baptism? Why did God choose gold as the
overlaying metal for the ark of the covenant? Why did God choose stone as the
material upon which to record the Ten Commandments? Why did God choose
Jerusalem as the site for the Temple? Why did God choose dust out of which to
form mankind? There is divine purpose behind these choices, although we may not
understand all the reasons. We certainly cannot deny or disavow God's sovereign
right to do as He pleases and to choose what He wishes.
An Immediate, External Evidence
One vital reason why God chose other tongues as the initial sign
of receiving the Holy Ghost is that speaking in tongues is an immediate,
external evidence. There are many other evidences of the operation of the
Spirit of God in a person's life, but it is a matter of time before they are
manifest. For example, the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23
follows in the wake of the spiritual infilling.
Peter and the six Jewish Christians who went with him to Caesarea
knew that the Gentiles had received the Holy Ghost, not because of
longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, or temperance, but because they heard them
speak with tongues and magnify God (Acts 10:46). Peter specifically pointed to
speaking in tongues as the irrefutable evidence (Acts 10:46-47).
Speaking in tongues is an outward, external evidence, instantly
observable and heard. By contrast, peace, joy, righteousness, and spiritual
fruit are inward, internal results of the infilling that become evident with
the passing of time.
A Uniform Evidence
Another reason why God chose other tongues as the initial sign of
receiving the Spirit is that speaking in tongues is a uniform evidence. It
applies to everyone, regardless of race, culture, or language.
Some people quote I Corinthians 12:30 in an attempt to prove that
not all speak in tongues when they are filled with the Spirit: "Do all
speak with tongues?" However, this verse refers to the gift of tongues,
that is, speaking a public message in tongues to be interpreted for the
congregation, which is a spiritual gift that a person may exercise subsequent
to the infilling of the Spirit. Though both tongues as the inital evidence of
the baptism of the Holy Ghost and tongues as a later spiritual gift are the
same in essence, they are different in administration and operation. For
example, the regulations regarding the gift of tongues in I Corinthians
14:27-28 did not apply to the conversion accounts in Acts, where many people
spoke in tongues simultaneously, without interpretation, as the sign of being
filled with the Spirit.
Some people may question this distinction between the initial use
of tongues at the baptism of the Holy Ghost and the later use of tongues as a
spiritual gift in a Christian's life. But the same distinction is apparent with
regard to faith. To be saved, everyone must have faith (John 3:16; Romans 10:9;
Ephesians 2:8). Yet I Corinthians 12:9 reveals that there is a special,
supernatural gift of faith that can operate in a Spirit-filled person's life
over and beyond the faith necessary for salvation. Saving faith and the
spiritual gift of faith are the same in essence but different in administration
and operation.
In speaking about the birth of the Spirit, Jesus emphasized the
uniformity of the experience: "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou
hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it
goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit" (John 3:8). Moreover,
Jesus placed emphasis upon the accompanying sound, not on sight or feeling. The
sound of the wind blowing is evidence of its presence.
Some people conclude that Jesus referred only to "the sound
from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind" on the Day of Pentecost. But this
sound of wind is never mentioned again in the later accounts of receiving the
Holy Ghost, while speaking in tongues is. Speaking in tongues by itself caused
the Jewish Christians to recognize that the experience of the Gentiles at
Caesarea was identical to theirs on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 10:44-47;
11:15-17). Hence, the important, conclusive evidence of the Spirit's
manifestation at Pentecost was speaking in other tongues. The sound of wind was
impersonal, but the speaking was personal. Speaking in tongues was the first
evidence of each individual infilling.
At Caesarea all who heard the Word were filled, and all who heard
the Word spoke in tongues. If some of them had not spoken in tongues, would the
Jewish Christians have accepted their experiences? Clearly not. All twelve men
mentioned in Acts 19:6 had a uniform experience. If ten of the twelve had
spoken in tongues and the other two had not, would Paul have believed that the
two had received the Holy Ghost just as the ten? Certainly not. Paul would not
have accepted their experience if they have failed to exhibit the uniform
evidence.
A Symbol of Complete Control
Speaking in tongues symbolizes God's complete control of the
believer. Perhaps this is one of the strongest reasons why God chose speaking
in tongues as the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost. This
symbolism becomes apparent when we study James 3, which provides more
information on the tongue than any other chapter in the New Testament.
First, the tongue is capable of defiling the whole body. If so, is
it incredible to claim that the tongue is also capable of symbolizing the
sanctification of the whole body?
Second, though the tongue is a smaller member, it has never been
tamed by humanity. It is the most unruly member of the body. If so, is it not
necessary for the tongue to be tamed before the whole body can be consecrated
to God? James illustrates the importance of the tongue by comparing it to the
bit in a horse's mouth, which gives the rider complete control over the horse,
and to the helm of a large ship, which gives the pilot full command of the
vessel. In other words, whoever controls the tongue of a person controls him.
And a person cannot tame his tongue by himself; only God can tame it for him.
According to Matthew 12:29, before someone can enter a strong
man's house and plunder his goods, he must first bind the strong man. The
strong man of our house is the tongue. We can tame every member of the body but
this one. When God tames a person's tongue, that person comes under God's full
control. He is in the hands of the Almighty. He has been conquered by Christ,
endued with a spiritual force from on high, and empowered for God's service.
Humanity's Greatest Expression
The tongue provides the greatest expressions of the human spirit.
We humans are spiritual and emotional beings, and as such we must give
expression to our emotions. The ability and power to coordinate thought and
tongue into intelligent speech is one of our highest prerogatives, elevating us
above the beasts of the field. This ability makes us superior to the rest of
God's creation on earth, and it is the most distinguishing feature of our
being.
The tongue becomes the vehicle of expression for the spirit. All
of the emotions--such as love, hate, anger, sorrow, joy, happiness, relief,
serenity--are communicated through the tongue. The tongue is the gate way to
the heart, feelings, attitudes, and spirit.
Conclusion
In light of these truths, it is not difficult to see why God has
chosen speaking in tongues to express the greatest, most wonderful experience
that we mortal humans can receive. In the baptism of the Holy Ghost, His Spirit
and our spirit become one. He uses our tongue and voice to express this union.
It is a wonder of wonders, chosen not by humans, but by God, the sovereign
ruler of the universe.
Why fight against Him? Believe His Word, accept what He says, and you too can be baptized with the Holy Ghost, for God will give the Holy Spirit to all who repent and ask in faith (Luke 11:13; Acts 2:38-39).
Why fight against Him? Believe His Word, accept what He says, and you too can be baptized with the Holy Ghost, for God will give the Holy Spirit to all who repent and ask in faith (Luke 11:13; Acts 2:38-39).
Why We Baptize in Jesus' Name
Introduction
The subject
of water baptism has long been called a great issue and no doubt has been made
such by many church leaders of the past and present. In our study of it, let us
first consider its importance, or the necessity of being baptized.
The Importance of Water Baptism
Christian
water baptism is an ordinance instituted by Jesus Christ. If it is not important
in the plan of God, why did Jesus command it in Matthew 28:19? And why did
Peter follow up by saying, "Be baptized every one of you," and by
commanding the Gentiles to be baptized (Acts 2:38; 10:48)? We must remember two
points about the importance of water baptism. First, whatever Christ definitely
established and ordained cannot be unimportant, whether we understand its
significance or not. Second, Christ and the apostles showed the importance of
this ordinance by observing it. Jesus walked many miles to be baptized, though
He was without sin, saying, "For thus it becometh us to fulfill all
righteousness" (See Matthew 3:13-16.)
It is true that water itself does not contain any saving virtue, but God has chosen to include it in His plan of salvation. Peter explained, "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" (I Peter 3:21). According to Luke 7:30, "the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized."
It is true that water itself does not contain any saving virtue, but God has chosen to include it in His plan of salvation. Peter explained, "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" (I Peter 3:21). According to Luke 7:30, "the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized."
The Mode of Baptism
According
to the Scriptures, the proper mode of baptism is immersion. "And Jesus,
when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water" (Matthew 3:16).
"And they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and
he baptized him" (Acts 8:38). "Therefore we are buried with him by
baptism into death" (Romans 6:4). A corpse is not buried by placing it on
top of the ground and sprinkling a little soil on it, but by covering it
completely.
According to the World Book Encyclopedia, "At first all baptism was by complete immersion" (vol. 1, p.651). And the Catholic Encyclopedia states, "In the early centuries, all were baptized by immersion in streams, pools, and baptisteries" (vol. 2, p.263). Immersion was not convenient after the Catholic church instituted infant baptism; thus the mode was changed to sprinkling. (See Encyclopedia Britannica, 11th ed., vol. 3, pp.365-66.)
Repentance identifies us with the death of Christ, and baptism identifies us with His burial. Coming forth from the watery grave of baptism and receiving new life in the Holy Spirit identifies us with His resurrection.
According to the World Book Encyclopedia, "At first all baptism was by complete immersion" (vol. 1, p.651). And the Catholic Encyclopedia states, "In the early centuries, all were baptized by immersion in streams, pools, and baptisteries" (vol. 2, p.263). Immersion was not convenient after the Catholic church instituted infant baptism; thus the mode was changed to sprinkling. (See Encyclopedia Britannica, 11th ed., vol. 3, pp.365-66.)
Repentance identifies us with the death of Christ, and baptism identifies us with His burial. Coming forth from the watery grave of baptism and receiving new life in the Holy Spirit identifies us with His resurrection.
The Formula for Baptism
Jesus commanded His disciples to "teach all
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19). He did not command them to use these words as
a formula, but He commanded them to baptize in "the name." The word
name is used here in the singular, and it is the focal point of the baptismal
command. The titles Father, Son, and Holy Ghost describe God's relationships to
humanity and are not the supreme, saving name described here, which is Jesus.
"Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name
under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).
Jesus is the name in which the roles of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are revealed. The angel of the Lord instructed Joseph, "She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Jesus said, "I am come in my Father's name," and, "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost,...the Father will send in my name" (John 5:43; 14:26). Thus by baptizing in the name of Jesus, we honor the Godhead. "For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9).
Luke 24:45-47 records that just before His ascension, Jesus opened the disciples' understanding. It was necessary that their understanding be opened, and many today need this same operation in order to understand the Scriptures. Then Jesus said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day." The disciples had their understanding opened so that they could grasp the vast importance of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Verse 47 describes the commission that Jesus then gave: "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations [Jews and Gentiles], beginning at Jerusalem."
Jesus is the name in which the roles of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are revealed. The angel of the Lord instructed Joseph, "She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Jesus said, "I am come in my Father's name," and, "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost,...the Father will send in my name" (John 5:43; 14:26). Thus by baptizing in the name of Jesus, we honor the Godhead. "For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9).
Luke 24:45-47 records that just before His ascension, Jesus opened the disciples' understanding. It was necessary that their understanding be opened, and many today need this same operation in order to understand the Scriptures. Then Jesus said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day." The disciples had their understanding opened so that they could grasp the vast importance of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Verse 47 describes the commission that Jesus then gave: "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations [Jews and Gentiles], beginning at Jerusalem."
Peter
was one of that number to whom Jesus had spoken and whose understanding had
been opened. After having listened to these instructions, a few days later he
was inspired by the Holy Ghost to preach on the Day of Pentecost. The hearts of
the hearers were pierced and, feeling condemned, they cried out to Peter and
the other apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" (Acts
2:37). Peter did not hesitate but boldly answered, "Repent, and be
baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of
sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38).
"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized, and the same day
there were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:41).
Some say that Peter told them to be baptized in Jesus' name because they were Jews and this baptism was to make them acknowledge Jesus Christ. But let us go with Peter to the house of Cornelius several years later. Cornelius and his household were Gentiles, yet there again Peter "commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord" (Acts 10:48). (Most translations actually say, "In the name of Jesus Christ.") If Peter was wrong on the Day of Pentecost, he surely had ample time to be corrected before he went to the house of Cornelius.
Some say that Peter told them to be baptized in Jesus' name because they were Jews and this baptism was to make them acknowledge Jesus Christ. But let us go with Peter to the house of Cornelius several years later. Cornelius and his household were Gentiles, yet there again Peter "commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord" (Acts 10:48). (Most translations actually say, "In the name of Jesus Christ.") If Peter was wrong on the Day of Pentecost, he surely had ample time to be corrected before he went to the house of Cornelius.
Was Peter wrong on the Day of Pentecost? When the hearers were
prickled in their hearts, they spoke to Peter and to the rest of the apostles
(Acts 2:37). This included Matthew, who wrote Matthew 28:19. Moreover, when
Peter preached, he stood up with the eleven Acts 2:14). Matthew was there, yet
we find no words of correction from him. He surely would have spoken up if
Peter had disobeyed the Lord. But all the apostles understood and carried out
the Lord's commission. As Jesus said in prayer, "I have manifested thy
name unto the men [the apostles] which thou gavest me out of the world...and
they have kept thy word" (John 17:6).
The
Samaritans, who were not Jews, were also baptized in the name of Jesus. Then
Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto
them...."But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the
kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and
women.... They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 8:5, 12,
16).
Let
us see how Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, baptized. He went to Ephesus many
years after the Day of Pentecost and found some disciples of John the Baptist
there. "He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye
believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be
any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And
they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the
baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him
which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they
were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 19:2-5). Although these
disciples had already been baptized, the name of Jesus was so important as to
cause them to be rebaptized in His name.
We do not believe that Paul changed the formula or mode of baptism when
he baptized Lydia and her household (Acts 16:14-15) or the Philippian jailer.
The latter came trembling and fell down before Paul and Silas, saying,
"Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus
Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And he took them the same hour
of the night [shortly after midnight], and washed their stripes; and was
baptized, he and all his, straightway" (Acts 16:30-33). How can we doubt
that Paul baptized these people using the same mode and formula that he used
elsewhere, that is, immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ?
Paul was not with
the apostles when Jesus gave his finial instructions to them in Matthew 28:19
and Luke 24:47, yet Paul baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. How did he
know what to do? He said that his gospel was not a tradition of men but a
revelation from God. "I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was
preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was
I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ" (Galatians 1:11-12).
Paul was chosen to bear Jesus' name to the Gentiles, and he wrote many divinely
inspired epistles to the church. To this apostle, God revealed the mystery of
the church, "which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men,
as it now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit"
(Ephesians 3:5). Paul claimed to have divine authority: "If any man think
himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that
I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord" (I Corinthians 14:37).
And Paul wrote, Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the
Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him" (Colossians 3:17).
Water baptism is done in both word and deed. We cannot afford to overlook this
command to the church.
The church is "built upon the foundation of the apostles and
prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" (Ephesians
2:20). The apostles not only preached baptism in Jesus' name, but they
practiced it. Nowhere can we find that they baptized using the words "in
the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." Instead,
we find them baptizing in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. In baptizing in
Jesus' name, they fulfilled the command of the Lord in Matthew 28:19.
Paul said,
"But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you
than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed" (Galatians
1:8). Let this be a solemn warning to us.
Some say that they will accept
the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:19 but not those of Peter in Acts 2:38. But
Peter spoke on the Day of Pentecost under the anointing of the Holy Ghost.
Peter was one of the apostles, and to him had been given the keys of the
kingdom, so we have no right to discredit his words.
In Mark 7:8 Jesus
said, "Laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of
men." History tells us that it was not until many years after the apostles
that the mode and formula of baptism in the name of Jesus Christ were changed.
(See Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible, vol. 1, p.241.) Which means more to
you, the command of the Lord or the tradition of men?
Liberty!
- By Leah Seagraves
Recently at a used bookstore, I found an interesting graphic (comic style)
novel about the Constitution of the United States of America.
I purchased it thinking,"I'll read this quickly and keep it for children to read or
donate it to the church library." As I am still reading the book, I see it is
not a lighthearted book written for children, but a deep history of the founding of our great
nation and the establishing of a Constitution by which to govern ourselves.
I love history and am a patriotic person, but was surprised at my
limited knowledge of the struggles endured by those who founded this country. Their
sacrifice, to have a life free of bondage for themselves, their children and
future generations, is amazing. Because they cared, we live in liberty today!
Many have died defending our liberty.
What about my
spiritual liberty? What sacrifices were made for me to receive Liberty from a life of sin? First, Jesus died on the cross; next
came the generations who held Truth sacred and strong through extreme adversity.
These, like the founders of our country, suffered rejection from family and friends, and
many lost their lives. Hebrews 11:32-40, tells of those who endured great
danger to see Truth preserved for me! I am so blessed to enjoy easy spiritual Independence from
sin, because those who brought Truth to me spent hours in prayer, fasted for days, and
did without some physical comforts.
Am I willing
to do the same for the generations who follow me? Am I willing to suffer possible danger to see Truth preserved? God never promised the
continued road of spiritual freedom would be easy! But, He did promise
He would be there with us!His word does not change, His spirit does not change, but more
importantly, His love does not change! The result of the sacrifices for our
country's Liberty has been a free nation. The result of sacrifice of our
spiritual Liberty has been countless souls saved from the bondage of sin and death! We
have a great heritage and a great challenge. I want to do my part to see that
those who follow me can live in Liberty!
Leah
Seagraves carries a hanky on the 4th of July and uses it! She enjoys the
parades,the picnics and the fireworks in celebrating our nation's freedom and
liberty! She loves patriotic songs, no matter what time of year. Her husband,
Steven Seagraves, Pastor of Christian Life Center in SeaTac, WA, is even willing to
dress in red, white and blue (with limitations) for the 4th! She also serves as
LM President for Washington District. She is a calligrapher, singer, DOZ supporter,
and what ever else needs to be done for the kingdom of God.
WOMEN:
We Have the Power of Influence
By Carol Clemans
As
we have just celebrated Mother's Day, I'm reminded of the gift that God gave to women. In the Garden of Eden, God gave Adam authority and
he gave Eve influence. When the devil tempted Eve to eat the fruit from the Tree of
Knowledge of good and evil, Eve turned to Adam who was with her and offered him the
fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. Instead of Adam taking responsibility and refusing
to disobey God, he allowed Eve to influence him for evil. The question is:
"Who had the most power?" The answer is, "Eve!" Eve used her power of
influence to convince Adam to sin against God!
There's a truth here that needs to be addressed. Adam abdicated his
God-given authority and caved in to Eve's temptation. God created
Adam after His image and likeness and even with all the beautiful and bountiful creation that
God put at Adam's disposal,Adam, without hesitation, surrendered to Eve's power of influence.
This is the cause for all the evil, sickness and death that is in the world today.The gift of influence is still with women today. As wives,
mothers, sisters and friends we have the power of influence. I take this as
a serious challenge before God. I refuse to follow in the footsteps of Eve. I
refuse to listen to the temptation of evil. I want my every word and action to be acceptable to God.
I want to use my power of influence to be a strong force in the lives of
people that I touch beginning in my home.
As Mothers, we are teachers. I bought a
decorative pillow that says; "To teach is to touch a life forever." We are the teachers of our
children. Will we use our power of influence for evil or for good? Our choice of influence
will decide our destiny in eternity! Carol Clemans is a certified
pastoral counselor and seminar teacher. She provides nationwide
phone & web cam counseling -