What it means to be in Christ
Today there are many “Christians” and though there should not be confusion, there are many differing ideas of what constitutes a Christian, or one in Christ. The Lord knows who he would call and choose, so it is not surprising that Jesus made the following statements:
Matthew 7:21-23 (KJV)
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? [23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
Luke 13:25 (KJV)
When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:
Luke 6:46 (KJV)
And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?
Matthew 22:11-14 (KJV)
And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: [12] And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. [13] Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. [14] For many are called, but few are chosen.
Mark 10:38-39 (KJV)
But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? [39] And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized:
Mark 16:16 (KJV)
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
Entrance into the Body of Christ—THE CHURCH
In the biblical Church of the apostles' age, the steps leading into the Body of Christ would have been the same for all believers; though the gifts that God gives, the amount of faith God may have given to one, and the experience often varied from one believer to another.
However many today, it would seem, have taken different steps to get into that body; and yet they too claim to be of the same biblical based Church.
All Christians start off in the first phase as a sinner (one covered with his/her past sins.)
Even if one managed to not sin for most his/her life; as humans are mortal men and women, all are born into sin.
Romans 5:12-21 (KJV)
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: [13] (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. [14] Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. [15] But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. [16] And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. [17] For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) [18] Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. [19] For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. [20] Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: [21] That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
Contrary to some church doctrines, the steps toward becoming a living part of the Body of Christ are not found in only one or two answers, as some churches today would presume and profess to have.
The very first steps are a progression of the sinner's walk in faith.
The Bible says of faith that faith comes by hearing (preaching) and hearing the Word of God.
Romans 10:8-18 (KJV)
But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; [9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. [11] For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. [12] For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. [13] For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. [14] How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? [15] And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! [16] But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? [17] So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. [18] But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.
Paul also explains why some don't believe—they lack faith.
Hebrews 4:1-11 (KJV)
Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. [2] For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. [3] For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. [4] For he spake in a certain place of the seventh day on this wise, And God did rest the seventh day from all his works. [5] And in this place again, If they shall enter into my rest. [6] Seeing therefore it remaineth that some must enter therein, and they to whom it was first preached entered not in because of unbelief: [7] Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. [8] For if Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day. [9] There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God. [10] For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. [11] Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.
When Conviction takes place—true belief— whereby the sinner actually has heard the Word, understands the message and now realizes his/her sins against God and seeks to right what was and is wrong, the sinner will repent and confess that he/she needs Jesus the son of God.
Job 42:6 (KJV)
Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.
Ezekiel 18:30 (KJV)
Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith YHWH God. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.
Matthew 4:17 (KJV)
From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Mark 1:15 (KJV)
And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
Luke 13:3 (KJV)
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Luke 13:5 (KJV)
I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
Acts 2:38 (KJV)
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Acts 3:19 (KJV)
Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;
Acts 8:22 (KJV)
Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee.
Revelation 2:5 (KJV)
Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
Revelation 2:16 (KJV)
Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.
Revelation 2:21-22 (KJV)
And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. [22] Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.
Revelation 3:3 (KJV)
Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.
Revelation 3:19 (KJV)
As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.
By this act of repentance, the sinner now humbles his/her self before God admitting that he or she needs God's help and is sorry for his or her sin or transgressions made against God.
The sinner is acting as if a little child humble before the Lord, in a contrite, repentant state.
Luke 18:17 (KJV)
Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
This brings the Holy Ghost closer to the believer than before, but the believer is still away from what he/she still needs. The next step of the believer is to begin the cleansing process.
Repentance is merely the act of acknowledging ones sins before God and making a confession and an effort to turn away from those sins in the future.
Repentance is a vital step, but it alone does not wash away sins, only the blood of Jesus, given by His Holy Grace, does.
Throughout the Old Testament law, the blood was atoning for those of 12 tribes of the children of Israel.
Jesus, the Christ, is God—the God of Israel—in the flesh who came to Save his people—Israel—from their sins.
Jesus died on the cross on the Passover as THE LAMB sacrifice for all (12 tribes) Israel.
For where the blood of animals in the Old Covenant could not take away sins, a perfect and Holy acceptable Sacrifice under God's New Covenant could.
Exodus 12:3-5 (KJV)
Speak ye unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb, according to the house of their fathers, a lamb for an house: [4] And if the household be too little for the lamb, let him and his neighbour next unto his house take it according to the number of the souls; every man according to his eating shall make your count for the lamb. [5] Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year: ye shall take it out from the sheep, or from the goats:
Exodus 12:21 (KJV)
Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them, Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the passover.
A lamb was used in the Old Covenant law as an atonement offering or burnt offering to YHWH.
Leviticus 14:12-13 (KJV)
And the priest shall take one he lamb, and offer Him for a trespass offering, and the log of oil, and wave them for a wave offering before YHWH: [13] And he shall slay the lamb in the place where he shall kill the sin offering and the burnt offering, in the holy place: for as the sin offering is the priest's, so is the trespass offering: it is most holy:
Leviticus 14:21 (KJV)
And if he be poor, and cannot get so much; then he shall take one lamb for a trespass offering to be waved, to make an atonement for him, and one tenth deal of fine flour mingled with oil for a meat offering, and a log of oil;
Leviticus 23:12-13 (KJV)
And ye shall offer that day when ye wave the sheaf an he lamb without blemish of the first year for a burnt offering unto YHWH. [13] And the meat offering thereof shall be two tenth deals of fine flour mingled with oil, an offering made by fire unto YHWH for a sweet savour: and the drink offering thereof shall be of wine, the fourth part of an hin.
Furthermore, a covenant is only solidified or "sealed" by the death of the Covenant (or testament) maker. Therefore the God of Israel (YHWH) had to somehow die for His people Israel to make sure not only the first Covenant was sealed, but to establish the promised second NEW and everlasting Covenant He had made with His people—the children of the 12 tribes of Israel.
Hebrews 9:16-10:10 (KJV)
For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. [17] For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. [18] Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. [19] For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, [20] Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. [21] Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. [22] And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. [23] It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. [24] For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: [25] Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; [26] For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. [27] And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: [28] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
[10:1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. [2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. [3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. [4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins. [5] Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: [6] In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. [7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. [8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; [9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. [10] By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
When Christ—Israel's Savior, the Messiah, and the God of Israel in the flesh— came to tabernacle (dwell) among His people (again) HE made that New Covenant saying this cup of wine is "my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."
Matthew 26:26-29 (KJV)
And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. [27] And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; [28] For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. [29] But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.
Mark 14:24 (KJV)
And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.
Therefore the Blood of The Lamb is all atoning.
The Blood of THE LAMB is not just a theology or something to be taken as symbolic which all are automatically covered under, rather it has its sanctified place in a holy purification ritual which all who ever entered the biblical "Church" in the apostle's day did partake and did all undergo very willingly.
Not only is this a sacred and holy ritual, it was a commandment from Jesus.
Matthew 28:16-20 (KJV)
Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. [17] And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. [18] And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. [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: [20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
There are also many types and shadows of baptism which can be found in the Old Testament.
Exodus 19:10 (KJV)
And YHWH said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes,
Exodus 30:18-21 (KJV)
Thou shalt also make a laver of brass, and his foot also of brass, to wash withal: and thou shalt put it between the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar, and thou shalt put water therein. [19] For Aaron and his sons shall wash their hands and their feet thereat: [20] When they go into the tabernacle of the congregation, they shall wash with water, that they die not; or when they come near to the altar to minister, to burn offering made by fire unto the Lord: [21] So they shall wash their hands and their feet, that they die not: and it shall be a statute for ever to them, even to him and to his seed throughout their generations.
Baptism still is only one part of the total process for Salvation, and even the apostles understood this biblical truth.
1st Corinthians 10:1-13 (KJV)
Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; [2] And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; [3] And did all eat the same spiritual meat; [4] And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. [5] But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. [6] Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. [7] Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. [8] Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. [9] Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. [10] Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. [11] Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. [12] Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. [13] There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
Baptism is just one of number of things one had to accomplish to overcome. Baptism without faith is death, and being baptized, but not keeping Jesus’ commandments or continuing in the faith is to fall back into sin which is death and possibly damnation depending on the sin and one's lack of faith.
If one reads the Holy Bible looking at one scripture to give him/her the answer, he/she will certainly find it, but it may not be the answer or the full truth of the matter.
The Holy Bible must be interpreted within the sole context of the Holy Bible; witnessing scripture with scripture to come to a true understanding and revelation in God's Word, which all is truth.
This is harmonizing the scriptures and not choosing one scripture to pit against another scripture, as if one text could override another.
Luke 8:18 (KJV)
Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.
Mark 4:21-25 (KJV)
And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? [22] For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. [23] If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. [24] And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given. [25] For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.
For some churches say if one believes, he or she is automatically "saved." They would cite that they are "saved by grace." Another church might say "works" only, still another by "baptism only," and it goes on and on, around in circles.
1st Corinthians. 1:10-19 (KJV)
Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. [11] For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. [12] Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. [13] Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? [14] I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; [15] Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. [16] And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. [17] For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
[18] For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. [19] For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
The Bible clearly says many things (by Grace we are saved through faith, its by our faith we repent and are baptized, it is by our faith we work towards sanctification to be like Christ, by our faith we show our good works, etc.) and as a result, we must take the total sum of all of God's word.
2nd Timothy 2:15 (KJV)
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Hebrews 10:7 (KJV)
Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
Psalm 139:16-18 (KJV)
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. [17] How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! [18] If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.
Many people often look to see what the apostles said about salvation, when perhaps they should also be looking to see what JESUS—God— actually said.
They will find He said many things on this topic.
JESUS did say that he who "endures to the end" or "overcomes" will be granted all sorts of amazing glory and treasure in heaven — obviously this speaks of salvation.
Matthew 10:22 (KJV)
And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.
Matthew 24:13 (KJV)
But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Matthew 24:22 (KJV)
And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
Mark 13:13 (KJV)
And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Mark 13:20 (KJV)
And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.
Mark 16:16 (KJV)
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
Luke 7:50 (KJV)
And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.
Luke 8:12 (KJV)
Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
Luke 18:42 (KJV)
And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.
John 3:17 (KJV)
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
John 5:34 (KJV)
But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.
John 10:9 (KJV)
I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
Taking up our Cross and overcoming the world
You'll be keenly aware (unless you are a special case) that after being baptized in water/Spirit —the blood of Jesus— you are still here on the planet earth.
Yes, you've been "left behind" my friend. But don't fret, for God has a greater purpose for you while you await the "rapture"— if you obey follow his Word and his commandments and do what he says.
Some might say that sounds like "works."
Actually, it's called obeying the WORD of GOD and doing God's will.
You see, most Christians think they are "servants" for the Lord, but actually the word "servant" would be better termed "SLAVE," for as a Christian, you don't have many choices in the matter, because you have put on Jesus Christ. YOU ARE HIS SLAVE. You belong to Jesus Christ.
Not only are you God's slave for His will and glory, but your God now is living within you.
YOU are, after all this, now circumcised in your heart of "a Circumcision made without human hands" according The Promise of His prophets regarding the New Covenant.
Ezekiel 36:23-33 (KJV)
And I will sanctify My great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am YHWH, saith YHWH God, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. [24] For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land.
[25] Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. [26] A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. [27] And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. [28] And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. [29] I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you. [30] And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen. [31] Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations. [32] Not for your sakes do I this, saith YHWH God, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel. [33] Thus saith YHWH God; In the day that I shall have cleansed you from all your iniquities I will also cause you to dwell in the cities, and the wastes shall be builded.
Jeremiah 31:31-37 (KJV)
Behold, the days come, saith YHWH, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: [32] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith YHWH: [33] But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith YHWH, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. [34] And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith YHWH; for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.
[35] Thus saith YHWH, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; YHWH of hosts is his name: [36] If those ordinances depart from before me, saith YHWH, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before me for ever. [37] Thus saith YHWH; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith YHWH.
The Law (Old Testament law) is now in your heart (like the law was in the Ark of the Covenant, if you will). Why? Because you now, like the Father in Christ, are a fleshly tabernacle in which Christ dwells in.
1st Corinthians 3:16-17 (KJV)
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? [17] If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
1st Corinthians 6:19 (KJV)
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
1st Corinthians 6:16 (KJV)
And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
While God’s Holy Spirit will now be in you and never leave you, the presence of God will be felt stronger, and work greatly in you if you continue to do that which is holy and righteousness before God, abstaining from that which is sinful.
The Bible says YOU were bought with a price. The God of Israel purchased you likely before you were born. You are not your own.
1st Corinthians 6:19-20 (KJV)
What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? [20] For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
YOU are now the temple in which God’s Holy Spirit dwells! The Bible clearly teaches this amazing concept!
Not only this; you have access to God anytime you wish through prayer and intercession and praise, and thanksgiving.
There is no more veil dividing you from the holiest of holies, or the need to go to a high priest for JESUS is also our HIGH PRIEST and you are THE TEMPLE in which HE LIVES!
Hebrews 8:1-9:15 (KJV)
Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; [2] A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man. [3] For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer. [4] For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts according to the law: [5] Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount. [6] But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. [7] For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second. [8] For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: [9] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord. [10] For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: [11] And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. [12] For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. [13] In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
[9:1] Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. [2] For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. [3] And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; [4] Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; [5] And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. [6] Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. [7] But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: [8] The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: [9] Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; [10] Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. [11] But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; [12] Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. [13] For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: [14] How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? [15] And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.
Once a Christian—a cleansed or baptized believer— the Christian still has to overcome this life in the world and preserve that clean status. This means abstaining from that which is sinful or the temptation of sin in world. For as Christ said while you are in the world you are not of this world.
1st John 4:4 (KJV)
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
Revelation 2:7 (KJV)
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
Revelation 2:11 (KJV)
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.
Revelation 2:17 (KJV)
He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.
Revelation 2:26 (KJV)
And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:
Revelation 3:5 (KJV)
He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
Revelation 3:12 (KJV)
Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.
Revelation 3:21 (KJV)
To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
Revelation 21:7 (KJV)
He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
The Bible says we die daily. No one is going to be pure from all transgression while in our flesh, or that would make us pure 100% if we did, we would be like God, but through the process of sanctification we must try our very best to achieve that, knowing that Jesus did all the work on the cross for our removal of our sin and we can do nothing to remove sin ourselves.
We are not to sin. For this reason Christians must still repent, and daily wash themselves in the Word of God, studying and reading and rereading in order to learn what God has purposed for his or her life and what is His will, HIS purpose for us, His Servant/Slaves.
That is why we must study to show ourselves approved before God. Christians also need to pray speaking with God petitioning and interceding for others doing what Jesus said, pray for others, even your enemies who afflict you. A huge job is giving thanks and praise, but this should not replace the other areas already mentioned.
Christians are also expected to do good works before God. After all, did not He command His disciples to do such whether it was praying and healing the sick, raising the dead (to everlasting life in Jesus) casting out the devil and his demons, healing the broken hearted, lifting ones burdens and bringing the Gospel and the Testimony of Jesus and preaching the Kingdom of God on the earth?
For most Christians today that is not what they do, but then again, how many "Christians" today are truly in Christ and have not climbed up the sheepfold and entered in another way?
Entering another way
John 10:1 (KJV)
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
Because many have not bothered to read the Bible closely, they have instead relied on what a man, or a church, or some else's voice, or experience, or a theology tells them. As a direct result, some may think they are "saved" when in fact they may only be in a continual process with God for their salvation.
Has God left them? I think not. For God wishes that none should perish.
2nd Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
God gave each one free will and a right to make a choice. The Bible says Jesus died for the sins of many, or other times it says "all men," or " the world," yet the Bible does not say that all men or all the world shall be saved. Quite the contrary is stated by Jesus himself.
Matthew 13:47-51 (KJV)
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind: [48] Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. [49] So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just, [50] And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. [51] Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord.
God gave all men a choice and a plan for their salvation (made possible through Christ). So, for some sinners their story is like this.
The sinner, or a person outside of Christ, attends a church service and hears a sermon based on the Gospel message. Once the sermon concludes, the sinner is given an invitation to accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior, or to make a decision for Christ. The Sinner is then led in a, often short, prayer asking God for forgiveness of their sins. Sometimes the sinner by praying this prayer is then told they are saved.
The problem with this method is the person hearing the gospel should themselves be convicted in their heart, or mind, in faith and want seek to be saved by the work of Jesus.
God is interested in our faith, but faith with understanding. Making a decision after hearing one part of the overall gospel story without having a basic understanding why Jesus came and died on the cross and lived again in his resurrection, is to make a decision without knowing the real reason for the decision.
Therefore, the sinner having been led in this method and sole reliance on a prayer usually takes a bridge over a very important next step toward one's salvation.
In most cases they usually completely skip the cleansing part:
In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: [12] Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead. [13] And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; [14] Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
The cleansing part is both physical and Spiritual.
Genesis 1:2 (KJV)
And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
John 3:5 (KJV)
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.
John 1:33 (KJV)
And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.
John 19:34 (KJV)
But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.
Acts 1:5 (KJV)
For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
1st John 5:6 (KJV)
This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.
1st John 5:8 (KJV)
And there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
Acts 2:38 (KJV)
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Revelation 7:9-17 (KJV)
After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; [10] And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. [11] And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, [12] Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. [13] And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? [14] And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. [15] Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. [16] They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. [17] For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
Water is one of the most precious items on earth needed for survival of almost all living creatures of God's creation. Yet God promises everlasting water, or the Holy Ghost.
Water is also one in agreement with the blood and Spirit according to the Christ's apostle.
1st John 5:8 (KJV)
And there are three that bear witness in earth, the spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one.
I am talking about a new phenomenon which is taking hold of the modern churches using what is called the "sinner's prayer."
There are many who use and swear by the power of the sinner's prayer (coined by some, the “sinner’s snare"), but "the sinner's prayer" is only a part of an acknowledgement of the need for God in the person's life and an act repentance to God. It’s sometimes is known as a “decision” for Christ.
It is a confession.
Having said that, the sinner prayer by itself, without true faith or conviction, won't do anything.
Nor does going by the sinner prayer and relying on a "feel good" emotion or outward sign without washing one's sins in the blood of Jesus and continuing in the faith.
The sinner prayer alone is furthermore, not biblical.
There is nowhere in the Bible that states that a prayer alone saves one. The apostles were never witnessed as doing this.
In the Bible the apostles preached the Gospel about Christ and the people were witnessed asking the disciples "what shall we do?" as they had conviction about Jesus being the Christ. They were not led to pray a prayer to be saved, but they were exhorted to repent and be baptized for the remission of their sins in the name of the Lord.
Though many may claim they "are changed" (usually they say saved or born again) after this prayer, the problem is "changed" doesn't necessarily mean "saved" or the kind of transformational change one goes through when one is completely covered by the blood of the Lamb.
Also consider that "the change" that is important is what is truly changed after we die, as well as while we are alive and on this earth.
1st Corinthians15:48-56 (KJV)
As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. [49] And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. [50] Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. [51] Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, [52] In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. [53] For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. [54] So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. [55] O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? [56] The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
1st Corinthians 15:57 (KJV)
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Bible says a "change" takes place before we can stand before God in His presence. Those not wearing a wedding garment may be in for an unhappy surprise. Just like no one could enter into amongst the congregation of YHWH without first cleansing one's self. Likewise no one could be even allowed before God at Mt Sinai had they not been sanctified and washed three days.
The Bible also states that "the dead" shall be raised. That is, the dead in Christ, those buried in HIS baptism.
John 5:21 (KJV)
For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom He will.
Those who rely on "the sinner's prayer" only, may have failed to do exactly as Jesus had commanded of his disciples.
The best scripture to illustrate this is John 13:4-17
He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. [5] 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. [6] Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? [7] Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. [8] Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. [9] Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. [10] Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. [11] For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. [12] So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? [13] Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. [14] If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. [15] For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. [16] Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. [17] If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
Can God still save those who pray the sinner prayer? Sure, if it is His will to do so— for it’s God's grace that anyone is saved. He is in control not I, nor you, nor a church's opinion. But that doesn't not mean we should ignore having to love the Lord our God with all our heart mind body and soul or to do what he commands.
If you truly love JESUS would you not want to do the best? Would you not want to follow and obey His examples and his commandments? Would you not strive to be perfect in following His Word?
But what about those who are brought to the knowledge of Christ by the use of the sinner's prayer, whom are weak (than the already biblically weak) and whom have not been schooled in the Bible or taught the real Gospel as the Bible states.
Will not these also have come to learn of God but go through this type of route, be not strong enough to withstand the evil darts of the devil and the temptations of the world; deciding to go home to settle back into older habits, to be influenced by the world whereby as Jesus said they will be snared or suffocated by the things of the world?
You see, they have not PUT ON CHRIST or His armor.
Galatians 3:26-27 (KJV)
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. [27] For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
1st Corinthians 15:53-54 (KJV)
For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. [54] So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
To put on Jesus the Christ you must first die in your sins.
You must TAKE UP YOUR CROSS, HIS CROSS being baptized in His BAPTISM.
As the Apostle Paul taught in Romans 6:4 "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
Even Jesus needed to be baptized. For God would not annul his own law least of all His own plan for redemption and salvation.
Jesus is also our example we should be learning from.
Matthew 11:29 (KJV)
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Matthew 3:13-14 (KJV)
Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. [14] But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
Jesus' apostles completely understood the physical act of water baptism as it was the physical and spiritual union for the blood of Jesus Christ.
Acts 8:36 (KJV)
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?
Acts 8:38 (KJV)
And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
Acts 10:47-48 (KJV)
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? [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 (KJV)
And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.
There are churches that use 'the sinner’s prayer' along with baptism. That is perfectly fine as long as they baptize according the Bible (Full-immersion/ in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost/the name of Jesus) and preform that for the remission of his/her sins.
Some churches only use water baptism as a mere entry ritual into a particular church congregation and/or may say it’s not useful for salvation, but they have lost the true meaning or and may be in danger with such doctrine.
Again it's all God's Will, His Grace.
We should not condemn anyone who is baptized nor should a church likely dis-fellowship with another non-baptizing church.
We are to teach, reprove, edify, and not divide.
The following scriptures deal with another baptism as well, that of the Holy Ghost.
Please realize that water baptism by itself cannot save, but it is your faith in Jesus that this is the Power of God and understanding that this is symbolic (yet is both Spiritual and physical) for the blood of Jesus and is physically of water, which we must be born again of as well as the Spirit.
The apostles (and many today) experienced what might be called 'fire baptism' or that of the outward experience of the 'baptism of the Holy Ghost.' Every Christian should pray for this, but realize again, this is also a "gift" given by God.
Just because one doesn't not speak in tongues in his lifetime, doesn't mean one did not have or receive the Holy Ghost, or "isn't saved" for the Bible declares that no one can come to know the Son except by the Father through the Holy Ghost.
1st John 5:7 (KJV)
For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
Luke 10:22 (KJV)
All things are delivered to Me of My Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and He to whom the Son will reveal him.
John 15:26 (KJV)
But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, He shall testify of me:
John 7:39 (KJV)
(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
John 14:26 (KJV)
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Notice to come to faith in Jesus, the Christ, we must have help from the Holy Ghost/Spirit/the Comforter, the Father/the Word. Therefore the Holy Ghost is ever-present whether or not we speak in tongues— which an outward sign of the receiving the infilling of the Holy Ghost or the baptism of the Holy Spirit—a gift by God.
Notice this in scripture John the Baptist is speaking of Jesus, but it possibly could be applied to all baptized believers today.
John 1:33 (KJV)
And I knew him not: but He that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.
If we do not have the Spirit remaining within us, we are none of His according to Paul, Christ's apostle.
Romans 8:9 (KJV)
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.
As stated before, it's not only the water, but entirely the Spirit, by which we are saved.
Titus 3:5-11 (KJV)
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; [6] Which He shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; [7] That being justified by His grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. [8] This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. [9] But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. [10] A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; [11] Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.
Paul here, is speaking to a Roman baptized audience— those of the "Church."
Romans 6:1-15 (KJV)
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? [2] God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? [3] Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? [4] Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. [5] For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: [6] Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. [7] For he that is dead is freed from sin. [8] Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: [9] Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. [10] For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. [11] Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. [12] Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. [13] Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. [14] For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. [15] What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
Paul understood that we are under Grace, but Paul still understood the need and the reason and the symbolic, physical, and spiritual concept of (water —full body immersion) baptism. He was (already) baptized and he writes all his letters to a baptized (past tense) Church, the Body of Christ.
Please understand that as important as baptism is, that alone, was still not 'the be-all end-all.'
What did Paul say, if we "willfully sin" after baptism— are we still to be "saved?"
If we are baptized, yet continue in that which is sin, then our circumcision (given by God's grace) can become un-circumcision.
It is God and His Will and our obedience that will determine our fate, not a preacher telling you "congratulations you are saved!” or “your name is now written in God’s book of life."
For many self-proclaimed "saved" —baptized and non-baptized— Christians have fallen back into sin and the snares of the world. Many more lead double minded lives.
But realize that those who are not baptized, thus not covered by the atoning blood— they don't have as a strong defense. If they further choose not to read the Word of God or they may attend a church which reads not nor focuses strongly on the Word, then they can easily fall back to into the comfort zone of the sinful world.
Matthew 7:21-27 (KJV)
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? [23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
[24] Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: [25] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. [26] And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: [27] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
Still others may be confused as to what being a Christian is; as many are born into it as a cultural phenomenon.
To these kinds of Christians, their concept of their church, is just that, a building they attend.
They likely do not seem to fully comprehend what it is they are even partaking in and very likely were a part of a church which conducted infant baptism, which many still do.
The believer, before his/her baptism, must believe and have faith to be convicted and repent to even get to the stage for to begin what needs to be done for achieving one's salvation.
If one is baptized as an infant, one has usually undergone a church ritual, not a biblical ritual.
A baby cannot possibly comprehend the knowledge or the revelation of Jesus the Christ.
It was a biblical ritual that all the first born would be dedicated to YHWH, but this did not involve a washing baptism.
While infant baptism or a “christening” may bring God into the child's life and even dedicate the child to God, for many of these Christians, they will grow up into a world where they still continue to sin and forsake God. (Just as I once did.)
Baptism— a real baptism— takes place when the person being baptized fully comprehends and goes before God with fully repentant heart, confessing before God and man that Jesus is the Christ who died to save us from our sins, else wise there is no transformation that takes place, for this change of heart by God needs to take place within us first, in order for God to move in and work in our lives.
Many Christians will argue against water baptism for many theological reasons, but in doing so they argue against the Word of God.
There is no denying the difference between a person's walk with God and the lives of those who have been baptized in the Blood of the Lamb for the remission of sins, and those who say they are "saved," yet have not been baptized.
The differences are quite astounding.
That's not to say that a sincere God loving, Bible believing person who has prayed the sinner's prayer will not be saved and not fall into sin.
But this would mean that person, more than likely, had a very strong faith, prayer, and Bible study life.
Being covered by the blood can save one even when they momentarily have fallen so long as they repent to come back. Having said that, we should not temp God and the Bible is clear about this, in no uncertain terms, that those "Christians" willfully living in sin or choosing to opt away once having come to the truth will receive a judgment for have having trampled down the son of God and His sacrifice.
Hebrews 10:19-31 (KJV)
Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, [20] By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; [21] And having an high priest over the house of God; [22] Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. [23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) [24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: [25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. [26] For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, [27] But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. [28] He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: [29] Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace? [30] For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. [31] It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Therefore the Christian, new man in Christ, must try to stay free from the temptations and/or anything which might cause transgressions of the Law of God which causes sin. For this reason Christians rebuke that which is unrighteous in society, while keep oneself as pure as possible.
This does not mean shunning other sinners (for you were once a sinner too) rather it means to remain holy, having self-control and doing that which is righteous before God because we love God and honor his Holy sacrifice on the cross, yet living within our sinful nature and overcoming the (sinful) world.
We are also to wash daily in the Word of God.
Ephesians 5:13-27 (KJV)
But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. [14] Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. [15] See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, [16] Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. [17] Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. [18] And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; [19] Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; [20] Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; [21] Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. [22] Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. [23] For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. [24] Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. [25] Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; [26] That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, [27] That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
The above Scripture points out many of the other tasks which a new believer in Christ should do. The first, is to pray always; praying not only for themselves, but all others especially the church and other members.
Christians should also bear one another burdens and relieve those burdens through the word of God and its preaching.
Christians are also expected to have Good works, not for works sake, but for the glory and praise of God!
It stands to reason that if a Christian does all these things, then he or she will be on the path toward his/her salvation— working for God, reading and strengthening themselves in the Word of God and prayer, and deeds for others to bring a lost sinner to the Lord to perhaps save them.
It also will be evident those around that person. It's not that of the outward appearance, that makes one a Christian, but the inward. It's not the outward rituals (or our spouting of doctrine), but the inward spiritual ones. Our hearts are circumcised by God through doing His will and obeying His commandments, not following what we think is right before our eyes or by our minds.
Romans 2:26-3:2 (KJV)
Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? [27] And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law? [28] For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: [29] But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.
[3:1] What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? [2] Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God.
Paul further states something most amazing and similar. Read closely what Paul is actually saying.
Romans 9:1-16 (KJV)
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, [2] That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. [3] For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: [4] Who are Israelites; Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; [5] Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.
[6] Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: [7] Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. [8] That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. [9] For this is the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sarah shall have a son. [10] And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; [11] (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) [12] It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. [13] As it is written, Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated.
[14] What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. [15] For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. [16] So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.
Please take note that the word "Israel" in this scripture, does not represent only what would be considered those of the Jewish faith (or Judaism) today, rather it is referring to the two tribes of Judah and Benjamin —both of the (in Christ's time) visible remnant of the "house of Judah" (of which Paul was of the tribe of Benjamin—a Judahite—in modern language "a Jew").
There were once ten tribes of Israel living in the northern kingdom of Samaria (the house of Israel) which were scattered into the Gentiles (nations— lost sheep 700 years before Christ comes to find and gather them) who likely lost their own identity— roaming all over the world. It is for Israel—His people of His twelve tribes— the Holy Bible states is who Jesus the Christ came for.
The Bible is clearly speaking of the children of the 12 tribes of Israel scattered (or lost sheep), not only one people today, commonly referred to as "the Jewish people" (Jews).
Matthew 15:24 (KJV)
But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Does it not make one wonder, why we today are "Christians" if only Jesus according to his own words, was sent but not for HIS 12 tribes of Israel, His two flocks of lost sheep (The House of Israel and the House of Judah)— long lost into all nations of the world (gentiles) more than 2000 years ago?
Perhaps the prophet Isaiah holds an answer.
Isaiah 65:15 (KJV)
And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for YHWH God shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name:
Acts 11:26 (KJV)
And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
To further back this up, read what others mention of those of the holy seed (baptized) in Christ.
Galatians 3:16 (KJV)
Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.
Galatians 3:19 (KJV)
Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.
Galatians 3:29 (KJV)
And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
2nd Timothy 2:8 (KJV)
Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:
Hebrews 2:16 (KJV)
For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.
Hebrews 11:18 (KJV)
Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:
Those of the seed of Isaac, are of the lineage of Jacob (Israel), Isaac's son, through which the Israelite tribe of Judah we have the Christ.
1st Peter 1:23 (KJV)
Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
1st John 3:9 (KJV)
Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
Revelation 12:17 (KJV)
And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.
The woman in this scripture is referring to the 12 tribes of all the children of Israel. The remnant of her seed is very likely also that of the Church (The promised remnant of Israel, the Israel of God.)
A Christian will then be known by the light that shines out of them as that of the light of Christ. They shall be known not by the cross they might wear, but by their fruit.
Matthew 7:15-27 (KJV)
Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. [16] Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? [17] Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. [19] Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. [20] Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. [21] Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? [23] And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
[24] Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: [25] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. [26] And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: [27] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
Besides, it is not "the world" a Christian should be pleasing, nor the things of the world, but God—doing what is pleasing to Him.
John 15:18-19 (KJV)
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. [19] If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
John 17:11-16 (KJV)
And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. [12] While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. [13] And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. [14] I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. [15] I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. [16] They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
1st John 2:15-17 (KJV)
Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. [16] For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. [17] And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
That is what really determines the difference from a "Christian" today and one who has truly put on Jesus Christ following after His will as outlined in the Word of God.
The Book of Acts sums up perfectly how a sinner enters into the Body of Christ—THE CHURCH.
Acts 2:36-47 (KJV)
Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
[37] Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? [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. [39] For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. [40] And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
[41] Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. [42] And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. [43] And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. [44] And all that believed were together, and had all things common; [45] And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. [46] And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, [47] Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
I pray that you have learned something most important about what it means to be a Christian, in Christ.
If you have not been saved by the precious blood of Jesus then I invite you to read the about the Blood of the Lamb and why you must be covered.
Have you been baptized for the remission of your sins?
Do you know the amazing link between Israel and the Church?
Read this article on Israel now and discover where you fit into God’s bigger picture!
If you have not known of Jesus or what he believed or taught, then I invite you to learn about JESUS.
Do you know JESUS?