Lesson 680

(Lesson 680)(06-30-13) In Luke 7:29-30 we find an even better example of what yesterday's lesson was about, "And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him."

This passage clearly establishes that all the people that HEARD him, were "baptized" with the "baptism" of John. Luke is referring to those Jews who had HEARD John's message as ones who had been "baptized". In this example, they were both "baptized" by being immersed in water, and also "baptized" by hearing and believing John's message.

Herein, we have established that the usage of the phrase, "the baptism of John", references John's message, and or, his administration of traditional Jewish water immersions (baths) as per the Law and command of God.~

Lesson 679

(Lesson 679)(06-29-13) The next appearance of a form of the term "baptize" appears in Luke 3:21-22, "Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased."

It would do us well to note that when this text says, "Now when all the people were baptized", the implication could be that everyone present was immersed in water. That, however, is NOT the case. Matthew 11:30-31 asks the question, "The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me. And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, WHY THEN DID YE NOT BELIEVE HIM?" This clearly establishes that those "chief priests, scribes and elders" had not believed him. Therefore, they obviously heard John's message (baptism), but chose not to believe, with this knowledge, it becomes reasonable to assume that the priests, scribes and elders, along with unknown others were NOT immersed in the water "baptism" offered by John.

If I haven't muddled this to the point that it is impossible to understand, we can see that ALL the people present received John's message and were in fact "baptized", but not everyone participated in his water "baptism". ~

Lesson 678

(Lesson 678)(06-28-13) The next two examples in our study of the term "baptize" are found in Luke 3:16-18, "John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people."

I add verses 17 and 18 of the quote to further qualify the fact that the term baptize is also used to describe, along with many other things, a lesson that is being, or to be, taught. As was noted in yesterday's lesson.

In today's example however, the application of the term "baptize" is used to define the placing within, or empowerment through the power of the Holy Ghost. Today's usage also implies an overwhelming of, or test by, a consuming fire.

John, in this statement, is clarifying that he could indeed immerse these Jews in a ritual "baptism", but Jesus, the Messiah, would have the power to "baptize" or place those who believed on Him, within the authority of the Holy Ghost whereby they would be retained as the *"sons of God". He was also explaining that the pretenders, or those who would not accept His saving grace, would be tried ("baptized") by fire, or even condemned ("baptized") to an eternity of the same.

Within this passage, there are three distinctly different intents specified by the usage of the same term, "baptize".

*John 1:12, "But as many as received" (were "baptized" into) "him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on" (and or "baptized" in) his name:"

I placed the parenthesized phrases in this quote to demonstrate that the term "baptize" can be applied to all manner of concepts and definitely does NOT always imply water immersion.~

Lesson 677

(Lesson 677)(06-27-13) The Next New Testament appearance of the term "baptized" is found in Luke 3:12-13, "Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you."

This application is only representative of the verbal message John's "baptism" provided and NOT the water "baptisms" he administered. This is evident by what John told those "Publicans" immediately after this reference to being "baptized" as it appears in this text.

The "baptism" John provided for the those publicans, in the very next verse says, "Exact no more than that which is appointed you."

Again, this application of the term "baptized" refers to the above message only and NOT a water immersion.~

Lesson 676

(Lesson 676)(06-26-13) The next application of the term "baptized" appears in Luke 3:7, "Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be 'baptized' of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?"
John made this statement to the crowd of people who had gathered to hear the message he was pre-ordained to teach, that message being "the baptism (doctrine) of repentance", as we have already established. John continues, in verse eight, to express the individual elements of that doctrine, Luke 3:8-18, "Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages. And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people."

John clearly taught these Jews what they were supposed to do to best exemplify their repentance, or change of heart toward the coming of the Messiah.
The term "baptized", as it is applied in this passage, means to be educated about, or be made aware of, the things pertinent to their repentance.

In modern English, Luke 3:7 would read, 'then he told the crowd that had come to learn from him, you generation of snakes, who has warned you of the coming danger'.

Herein the use of the term "baptized" simply means, to learn or become knowledgeable of. ~

Lesson 675

(Lesson 675)(06-25-13) I want to reflect back to yesterday's lesson and expand it a bit.

The phrase, "the baptism of John", is found many times in the New testament. It is, most often and by most "bible scholars", representative of ONLY the water immersions John the Baptist administered. That is a totally false representation. In fact, as we will establish with this study, the phrase is more often that not, in reference to the message John was fore-ordained to preach, as well as the water "baptisms" he administered.

This misrepresentation contributes, in a large part, to the confusion surrounding the purpose and practice of today's water "baptism".

It is absolutely critical that the bible student understand that the term "baptizO", from which our English term "baptize" was transliterated, had several differing intents and purposes of application within the Greek language.

The term "baptizO" was used in the written language of the New Testament era (ancient Greek) to define, not only water immersions, but also any involvement with, or devotion to, any particular ism, or belief. As well as implying a physical immersion, the term "baptizO" also means to take on as a covering. For example, if one were to adhere to witchcraft, that one would be "baptizOed" in the name of (doctrine of) witchcraft.

A perfect example of what I'm saying can be referenced in Paul's question to "certain disciples" in Acts 19:1-5, "And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, 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?" (in today's language, 'what have you been taught?') "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."

These "certain disciples" had NOT been taught the doctrine of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, nor had they been made aware of the concept of the Holy Triune, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, because they didn't even know there was a Holy Ghost, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost."

They had only received the preparatory water "baptism" (immersion) administered by John, the "baptism of repentance", the baptism that only PREPARED them for the coming of the Lord. Knowing they had not understood the concept of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, Paul then preached to them the "baptism" of Jesus Christ, that soul saving immersion into that faith which comes upon acceptance of the death, burial, and resurrection of the only begotten Son of God unto eternal life.
If anyone has questions or needs further clarification of this very important lesson, be sure to ask. All input will be appreciated.~

Lesson 674

(Lesson 674)(06-24-13) The next appearance of a variation of the term "baptize" is in Luke 3:1-4, "Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight."

I have included the extra verses in this quote because the first two establish the historical time line and the context within which John's "baptism" occurred. Verse three provides the actual usage of the term. The last verse explains what the term indicates in this usage.
The above quote clearly establishes that John the Baptist came out of the desert with a divine purpose, "PREACHING" the "BAPTISM OF REPENTANCE".

It should be first noted that to "preach" something is to vocally proclaim it's truthfulness or inevitability, therefore, since water immersion is a mechanical function it CANNOT be literally "preached". It could be said that John was "preaching" an order that those Jews should be immersed in water, and in a technical way, that would be correct. John did indeed perform, or administer water immersions for the purpose of ceremonially cleansing those Jews in preparation for the coming. However, that is NOT what John was divinely inspired to "preach"! John was explicitly sent to "preach" the coming of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight".

The word "preaching" is defined by Strong's bible dictionary as: "to be a herald, to officiate as a herald, to proclaim after the manner of a herald, always with the suggestion of formality, gravity and an authority which must be listened to and obeyed, to publish, proclaim openly: something which has been done used of the public proclamation of the gospel and matters pertaining to it, made by John the Baptist, by Jesus, by the apostles and other Christian teachers."

To "herald" is to announce publicly some specific action, or the coming of some special event. In the case of today's lesson, John was "heralding", or proclaiming (preaching) the message he was fore-ordained to teach, that being the coming of Jesus, the Messiah.

As was prophesied in Isaiah, John's only commission was to "prepare ye the way of the Lord", he was to tell the Jews that Jesus, the Savior was coming, and to prepare them for that event. According to Maimonides, a twelfth century rabbi and probably the most commonly respected authority on Jewish law and tradition, before entering into or taking on ANY religious event, a practicing Jew is required to be ceremonially bathed in water. It is this same traditional water immersion, (baptism) John administered for those Jews who believed the Messiah was coming, and to prepare them for that event.

It is clear that John's message was to teach that the Messiah was coming, he was also to ceremonially cleanse the willing for that coming by administering water immersions.

The "baptism of John" includes, but is NOT limited to, water "baptism".

NOTE: tomorrow's lesson will apply to this same scripture.~

Lesson 673

(Lesson 673)(06-21-13) The next time we find a variation of the term "baptize" is in Mark 16:15-16, "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."
This quote is Mark's account of the same events that are found in Mathew 28:19-20. There term "baptized", as it is applied herein, has no more reference to water as a medium than does the application in Matthew 28. Just as in Matthew 28:19, the term "baptized" refers to being wholly submersed, acceptant of, or wrapped within the concept of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost."

Sadly, this scripture is mistakenly used by many in a misguided attempt to confirm that one must be "baptized" (immersed) in water before becoming a child of God. Galatians 3:26-27 clearly tells us that a "baptism" (immersion) into Christ is what gives us that status, not an immersion into water into Christ, "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST have PUT ON Christ."

This passage even goes so far as to explain that "baptism" into Christ is to PUT ON Christ.
Water is clearly NOT the implied medium into which Mark 16:16 implies that one is to be "baptized" to be saved.~

Lesson 672

(Lesson 672)(06-20-13) The term "baptism" appears next in Mark 11:30, "The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me."

After the scribes, priests and elders, asked Jesus by what authority He did the things He did, Jesus answered with the above question.

It is contextually evident that those Jewish dignitaries had not come to simply watch John administer water immersions, they had come to HEAR the controversial message he was teaching. Therefore, "baptism" as it is applied in this quote, refers to John's message as the medium into which those listeners were being immersed and has NO reference to the use of water.~

Lesson 671

(Lesson 671)(06-19-13) The next six applications of a variation of the term "baptize" is found in Mark 10:38-39, 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? 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:"

These references are Mark's account of the same usages that appear in Matthew 20:22-23 and every one of the six clearly demonstrate that both the "cup" and the "baptism" Jesus refers to herein defines His then, forthcoming, sacrificial ordeal. These usages do not, in any way, imply the use of water.

However, these usages, again, make it vividly clear that the Greek term baptizO, from which our English word baptize was transliterated, has many different intents as it is applied in the New Testament.~

Lesson 670

(Lesson 670)(06-18-13) Somehow I skipped one of the most important applications of a form of the term "baptize" that can be found anywhere in the New Testament. Today we will go back and analyze that application within the "great commission", found in Matthew 28:19-20, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 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."

The term "baptizing", as applied in this quote has nothing to do with water. There is NOTHING in the context of Jesus' statement that would imply the use of water as a medium into which this baptism was intended.

Jesus clearly says, "baptizing them IN (into) the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:" The word "in" that is used in this commandment comes from the original Greek term eiIv, or transliterated "eis", which Strong's bible dictionary defines as: "into, unto, to, towards, for, among"

This statement does NOT imply an immersion into water into the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost! It clearly says immerse them INTO the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Those whom we teach are to be placed within, or to be made a part of, the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Jesus goes on in this quote to explain exactly how we are to "baptize" them, He says it is by "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:" We are to immerse the willing lost into the sanctity of the name, or the concept of, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost by teaching, or immersing them into the doctrine of Jesus Christ crucified.

The phrase, "the name of" as it is applied in the written Greek language of the time, obviously defines something that can be preached, as evidenced by what Philip was said to have done in Acts 8:12, "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." When these people believed the gospel preached by Philip, they were saved through immersion into THE NAME (complete concept, of doctrine) OF JESUS CHRIST.

Again, there is NO reference to water immersion ("baptism") implied by the use of the term "baptizing" as it is found in Matthew 28:19, the context simply does not allow it.

If there are any parts of this lesson that need further clarification, please just let me know, I'll be glad to go into much deeper detail.
To me, this is one of the most important lessons in the entire bible.~

Lesson 669

(Lesson 669)(06-17-13) The next appearance of the term "baptized" is found in Mark 1:9, "And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." I have added verses ten and eleven to provide context.

This usage of the term "baptized" is an obvious reference to the water immersion Jesus received from John the Baptist.

The latter portion of the quote explains, in part, why Jesus submitted Himself for that water "baptism", in that God the Father did not openly acknowledge Jesus as His Son until He had completed this "baptism" as was required by Jewish law and commandment.~

Lesson 668

(Lesson 668)(06-16-13) The next two times a form of the term "baptize" appear in the New Testament, are found in Mark 1:8, "I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost."

John's first usage of the term "baptize", indicates that the medium into which that immersion was to occur, was water. It is very clear that the term "baptize" in the second portion of John's refers to an altogether different "baptism". John says, "but he (Jesus) shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." He therein, explains that the baptism offered in the gospel of Jesus, is a baptism into the Holy Spirit whereby the eternal soul is sealed. This promise is restated by Paul in Ephesians 1:3-14, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory."

Again we see that the New Testament demonstrates many different mediums into which one can be "baptized" or immersed.~

Lesson 667

(Lesson 667)(06-15-13) The next application of a variation of the term "baptize" is found in Mark 1:5, "And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins."

This application of the term "baptized" is Mark's account of the same event found in Matthew 3:6 and clearly implies that water is the medium into which these immersions occurred in that they were "baptized" IN the "river Jordan" a body of water.

All four gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, give slightly differing accounts of these same events.

On another note from within this lesson, one could, from the literal reading of this verse, conclude that every soul living in Judaea and Jerusalem underwent the water immersion (baptism) administered by John the Baptist. This contention can be easily refuted in that the "Pharisees and Sadducees" along with many others, did not believe and therefore were not immersed with John's "baptism".~

Lesson 666

(Lesson 666)(06-14-13) The next two times variations of the term "baptize" appear in the New Testament is in Mark 1:4.

To provide context for this usage, I have included verses one through three, "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins."

It can easily be assumed that the above application of the term "baptize" refers to the water immersions administered by John, however, in the same sentence, the application of the term "baptism", since it was something that could be "preached", defines the message John brought, "prepare ye the way of the Lord", and has nothing to do with water.

This is a very unique example of the many scriptural applications of the Greek root word baptizO, in that this text provides two distinctly different definitions of the same root word as two different forms appear in the same sentence. Baptisma, the Greek word for baptism and the term from which "baptism" was transliterated, in the original Greek text, is a grammatical variant of the word baptizO in ancient Greek from which the word baptize was transliterated.

This text says John did two distinctly different things, he "baptized" (in water) AND preached "baptism" (a message, the gospel of Jesus Christ).

The lesson affirms that when the word baptize, or one of its grammatical variants appear in bible text, its definition is to be determined ONLY by the context in which the term is applied.~

Lesson 665

(Lesson 665)(06-13-13) The next time we find a form of the term "baptize" is in Matthew 21:25, I will post Matthew 21:23-27 to provide the context in which this application occurs, "And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority? And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him? But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet. And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things."

It is commonly accepted that every New Testament application of the phrase "the baptism of John" is in reference to the water immersions John administered. That notion is simply wrong. The above phrase was spoken by Jesus in reference to the MESSAGE John taught, NOT his water "baptism". Therefore, the usage of the phrase "the baptism of John" might be inclusive of, but is certainly not exclusively limited to water immersion.

The truth of what I've just said is evidenced by the context of the quote, "Why did ye not BELIEVE him?" One cannot believe or disbelieve a water immersion. Water immersion is a simple mechanical action that either occurs or does not. On the other hand, one CAN choose to believe or disbelieve a message, or doctrine. That is precisely what Jesus asked the chief priests and elders, why did you not believe John when he taught the coming of the Messiah.

This lesson teaches us yet another application for the term "baptize", it can also, as established above, be used to define a message, a particular doctrine, or lesson.~

Lesson 664

(Lesson 664)(06-12-13) The next six variations of the term "baptize" are found in Matthew 20:20-23, "Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father."

All six of the foregoing examples denote the same medium into which Jesus was to be "baptized". None of these examples infer water immersion.

After being asked for special treatment by the Zebedee brothers, James and John, Jesus asked if they were willing to undergo the ordeal ("baptism") He had been divinely pre-ordained for and was about to be subjected to. The "baptism" or ordeal Jesus was referring to was clearly the soul saving sacrifice He was about to make for all who would believe in Him. These six variations of the term "baptize" all infer Jesus' death, burial and resurrection as the medium into which He was about to be "baptized" (immersed).

Immersion, through faith, into the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the "baptism" Jesus refers to in these six examples, is the same baptism that was required of His followers, by Him, in Matthew 28:19-20, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, 'baptizing' them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 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."

Jesus promised the sons of Zebedee that through His own sacrifice, they too would be "baptized" and would there-through reap eternal salvation, "Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with:"

This same promise applies to all who place their faith in Jesus Christ as the ONLY remitter of sins.~

Lesson 663

(Lesson 663)(06-11-13) The next usage of a form of the term "baptize" appears in Matthew 3:16-17, "And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

It is obvious that this usage of the term "baptized" implies that the medium into which Jesus was immersed, was water in that He "went straightway out of the water".

In verse 17, it is clearly established that the water immersion (baptism) Jesus subjected Himself to was of great importance to God the Father in that it prompted Him, for the first time, to publicly acknowledge Jesus as His Son.~

Lesson 662

(Lesson 662)(06-10-13) The next New Testament application of the term "baptized" is found in Matthew 3:14-15, "But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be 'baptized' of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him."

John's usage of the term "baptized", in the above quote, adds yet another medium into which one can be "baptized" (immersed). John says, "I have need to be 'baptized' of thee", John was expressing his need to surrender himself to the saving power of Jesus and to be included in the saving sacrifice of Christ, knowing that the water baptisms he administered were insufficient to eternal salvation.

In this application, the term "baptized" defines a means by which one can be, rescued, saved or redeemed. It is obvious that John was NOT implying that Jesus immerse him in water, Jesus did NOT "baptize" in water, he was requesting to be immersed into the soul saving sanctity of Jesus Himself. John was requesting that he be included in the saving "baptism" that Jesus referred to in Luke 12:50, "But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!" The "baptism" Jesus refers to, in this quote, is to His death, burial, resurrection and ascension.

I included verse 15, "And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.", to further establish the truth of yesterday's lesson in that Jesus, being a Jew, was required under commandment from God to be ritually immersed into water so as to fulfill "all righteousness" in preparation for His testimony and eventual soul saving sacrifice.~

Lesson 661

(Lesson 661)(06-09-13) The next New Testament reference to "baptism" is found in Matthew 3:13, "Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him."

The bible clearly establishes that Jesus was a Jew, and as a practicing Jew, and in order to maintain obedience to the law, Jesus was required to follow the letter of the law and commandments that had been provided to them by God the Father. Baptism (water cleansing by total immersion) was among those commandments, as we have earlier established. The baptismal ritual immersion was practiced to ceremonially prepare the candidate for some religious requirement or exercise. Some examples of those things that required water "baptism" were converting to Judaism, interring the temple to make a sacrifice, or interring into a period of fasting, prayer, etc.
Jesus could not have been the perfect sacrifice for our sins had He not obeyed the law and subjected Himself to that ritual (cleansing) water "baptism".

In the above quote, Jesus presented Himself to John for no purpose other than to accomplish perfection through total obedience to the law. Jesus' obedience prompted God to say, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." At that point Jesus, the man, became totally qualified to be a sacrifice for all mankind.~

Lesson 660

(Lesson 660)(06-08-13) The third and fourth appearances of the term "baptize" are found in Matthew 3:11-12 wherein John the Baptist says, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."

It is very evident in this quote that there are at least three distinctly different mediums into which one can be baptized (immersed). The first reference is to water as the medium, John said, "I indeed baptize you with water". The second designates the Holy Ghost as the medium one can be baptized (immersed) with, "he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." The third designates fire as the medium, John said, "he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, AND with fire".

We have already established that the term "baptize" can imply the use of three different mediums into which a baptismal immersion can be accomplished (water, the Holy Ghost and fire) and, upon completion of this study, we will have established many more mediums into which a scriptural baptism (immersion) can occur.

To be "baptized" with the Holy Ghost is to be wrapped within it, or wholly absorbed by it, just as one is to be wholly submerged or immersed in water during a water baptism. To be baptized with fire, one must be completely engulfed within the flame.

Sadly, today, if one mentions baptism, it is almost always assumed that the reference it to water immersion. Nothing could be further from the truth as we established with this lesson and will further establish with the continuance this study.

John clearly establishes that water baptism he performs are far inferior to that baptism that is offered by Jesus.

NOTE: It is important to pay special attention to the fact that John said he baptized with water "unto (toward) repentence". This means that John performed these water immersion BEFORE the candidates had repented. After Jesus ascended to the Father, all water baptisms were performed AFTER repentance. This will be proven to be fact as we continue these lessons.~

Lesson 659

(Lesson 659)(06-07-13) Its sad but I have to start off today's lesson with and apology! Yesterday I stated that the term "baptize", or one of its variations, appears in the New Testament a total of 72 times, that is incorrect! the total is 95 times. I humbly apologize for that error. :(

The second time a variation of the term "baptize" is applied in the New Testament, can be found in Matthew 3:7, "But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his 'baptism', he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?"

The context of John's question to the Pharisees clearly demonstrates that these Pharisees were had come to hear the message that John brought, watching him administer water immersions was clearly secondary to that.

Therefore the term "baptism", is used to define first the message John taught and secondarily, the mechanical water immersions he administered.

As we continue this study we will learn that the phrase "the baptism of John" appears many times in the New Testament and is, by many, misused to imply water baptism (immersion) with every usage. As is demonstrated in today's lesson, that is NOT the case.~

NOTE: I would like to, again, encourage questions and commentary. If any of you find scriptural conflict or error within my synopsis please expose it.

Lesson 658

(Lesson 658)(06-06-13) The first of seventy two times a variation of the term "baptize" appears in the New Testament is in Matthew 3:1-6, "In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins."

This quote references the water baptisms that were administered by John the Baptist under Jewish law and commandment. These water immersions, administered by John, were done in preparation for the coming of the Lord, just as was said above, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." The only purpose for John's water "baptisms" was to ceremonially, "cleanse", and prepare the willing Jewish people for the coming of the Messiah.

The following is the quote John refers to in verse 3, Isaiah 40:1-5, "Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the LORD's hand double for all her sins. The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it."

John the Baptist was ordained by God for one mission and one mission only, just as he and Isaiah stated, that was to "prepare the way of the Lord". He was to accomplish this by, first preaching the coming of the Messiah, and then by baptizing (immersing) the willing in water, ceremonially cleansing and preparing them for the presence of the Lord.

The above usage of the term baptize, clearly, by context, indicates that water is the medium into which these Jews were immersed.~

Lesson 657

(Lesson 657)(6-05-13) In order to determine the origin of water immersion (water baptism), as a religious sacrament, I rely heavily on Old Testament scripture as well as historical fact as determined by the most qualified scholars of the times.

According to Maimonides, a Jewish priest of the 12th century, and probably even today, the most respected scholar of Jewish law and tradition, water baptism as it was practiced by the early Hebrews, was originally commanded by God.

The following is a quote from Maimonides, "By three things did Israel enter into the Covenant: by circumcision, and baptism and sacrifice. Circumcision was in Egypt, as it is written: 'No uncircumcised person shall eat thereof' (

Exodus 12:48). Baptism was in the wilderness, just before giving of the Law, as it is written: 'Sanctify them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes' (Exodus 19:10). And sacrifice, as it is said: 'And he sent young men of the children of Israel which offered burnt offerings' (Exodus 24:5)…When a gentile is willing to enter the covenant…He must be circumcised and be baptized and bring a sacrifice…And at this time when there is no sacrifice, they must be circumcised and be baptized; and when the Temple shall be built, they are to bring a sacrifice…The gentile that is made a proselyte and the slave that is made free, behold he is like a child new born."

Ritual water washing was required of the ancient Jews to cleanse themselves of all manner of "unclean" substances and circumstances.

It was, just as Maimonides said, required to be done before anyone, even priests, could enter into a holy place or circumstance.

The water baptism John the Baptist offered was a perfect example. The water immersion of Jesus was just such a "baptism" and was done to fulfill "all righteousness" under the law.

There is not sufficient space for me to go into more detail with this segment on the origin of baptism, I won't go there for fear of making these lessons to lengthy. However, if there are any specific questions anyone of you has, I'd be more than happy to answer them to the best of my ability. I recommend that everyone of you search these things on your computer, or the Old Testamen, to satisfy yourselves as to these contentions.
BE SURE to ask questions about anything you either disagree with, or those things I might have confused you with. :)

Tomorrow we will begin our study into every individual mention of baptism appearing in the New Testament.~

Lesson 656

(Lesson 656)(05-04-13) Today begins our study into the origin of the term baptize and its grammatical variations (baptized, baptism, baptizing). It behooves us to know that "baptize" is a term that was transliterated from the Greek "baptizo", and its grammatical variations (baptismo and baptisma).

First let us first establish the difference between transliteration and translation.

When a word is translated from one language to another, the word being translated is replaced in the new language with a word that provides the exact same definition and application intent as the word in the original language. However, when a word is "transliterated", it is simply replaced with a made up, sound-alike word that neither defines the original word, nor expresses its intent when used in conversation.

The word baptize, as it is applied in the New testament, is a sound alike word that was created simply to replace the word baptizo, it was never intended to define its intent.

The original definition of the Greek word "baptizo" is to immerse, dip, submerge, enwrap, enclose within, bury into, surround by, engulf in, take on (anything) as a complete cover, etc etc. It simply means to place one thing completely into another for the purpose of altering the item being baptizoed (immersed). One can be baptizoed into many things, such as water, death, fire, The Holy Ghost, a concept, etc, as is very clearly indicated in the New Testament.

Therefore, the word baptize should be defined in English exactly as the Greeks defined baptizo.

This clarification should be carefully noted as we continue into this study.~

Tomorrow we will determine the origin of both Jewish and Christian baptism.

Lesson 655

(Lesson 655)(06-03-13) Revelation Chapter 22, "And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book. And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus."

Today's lesson, again, relates the wonderful promise to those of us whom have accepted Jesus as our mediator before God. The latter portion of this lesson includes a warning that it behooves us all to observe carefully. John said, " If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book."

Those who attempt to teach this book should be very careful so as not to misrepresent what is conveyed herein. This is why I believe we should leave the interpretation up to the reader.

Adding to or taking from this text appears to be the only way one could have his/her name removed from the book of life. I will not take that chance.~

This lesson completes the, in order, lesson by lesson segment of our study into the New Testament. It is my sincere hope, and prayer, that maybe somehow or some way this endeavor has been beneficial.

I thank all of you that have taken this study with us and hope you go with us throughout the rest of our studies.

Beginning tomorrow, we will take up the study of the term "baptize" and all of its grammatical variations. We will analyze its every application within the text of the New Testament.

This will be a very interesting study in that it will expose some ideas that, so far as I am aware, have never been properly examined in detail, don't miss it.

Above all, my prayer is that not one soul be lost to eternal damnation, and through this study some lost soul might find the saving grace of God through Christ Jesus.

Thanks again for staying with me on this journey, your brother in Christ Jesus, Austin.

Lesson 654

(Lesson 654)(06-02-13) Revelation 21:9-27, "And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there. And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it. And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life."

Today's lesson relates the dimensions of the new Jerusalem, the "Lambs wife". It also describes the blessedness of that great city where the presence of Jesus is the only light.~

Lesson 653

(Lesson 653)(06-01-13) Revelation 21:1-8, "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death."

Today's lesson reveals the "new heaven and a new earth" as promised by the Father. What a glorious promise! No more frowns, ever!~