Lesson 742

(Lesson 742)(08-31-13) Today's lesson comes from the first six verses of Matthew 3, and deals with the appearance of John the Baptist;

"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."

The coming of John the Baptist was prophesied in the old testament, then fulfilled. Just as was the coming of Jesus.

John's mission was to "prepare the way of the Lord". His message was, "the kingdom of heaven is at hand".

That is the same message Jesus preached, Matt. 4:17, it is also the same message Jesus instructed His disciples to preach, Matt. 10:7.

John the Baptist (baptizer), was also to perform ritual water baptism as it was required of all Jews who were entering into a religious circumstance.

According to Maimonides, a well respected authority on ancient Jewish law and tradition, no Jew could enter enter the temple, or a tabernacle, without first being fully immersed in pure running water to rid themselves of unclean things.~

Lesson 741

(Lesson 741)(08-30-13) We continue our lessons beginning at verse thirteen of Matthew 2, continue through the end of that chapter;

"And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.

When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.

But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene."

This lesson details how Joseph, Mary, and Jesus avoided the wrath of Herod by going into Egypt per God's instructions to Joseph.

Herod, the Jewish king, feared Jesus because he was afraid Jesus would take over his throne. That fear led to the slaughter of hundreds, or maybe thousands, of *babies in Bethlehem. The Jewish priesthood feared Jesus because they knew, that if in fact, Jesus was the Messiah, He would expose them for the hypocrites they truly were, destroying their cushy lives.

This lesson fulfills several of the prophecies concerning the coming of our savior, the Messiah.

Again, in order to fully understand this lesson, as well as all the others in the New Testament. Those who sincerely wish to understand why, and how, God dealt with the ancient Jews (His chosen people) the way He did, as well as those who might seek His presence today, the serious bible student needs to begin at Genesis 1, and read (study) through the final "amen" in the book of Revelation. This study needs to be prayerfully done with the Holy Spirit of God as guide.

*Archaeologists have recently unearthed the bones of hundreds of babies that were together buried in mass graves about the time when Herod was the king of Judea.

Lesson 740

(Lesson 740)(08-29-13) Today's lesson comes from the first twelve verses of Matthew 2;

"Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way."

This lesson relates the story of the eastern wise men who had came to find and worship the newborn Savior.

It is a mystery how these men knew the Messiah had come simply by seeing the eastern star. I suppose they too were prophets of God, although the story doesn't tell us that. This story demonstrates the amazing ways God deals with His people and the diversity of the those involved in relating to us His divine intentions.

Another part of this lesson tells how Herod and the Jewish hierarchy began plotting to kill Jesus as soon as they had heard of His birth.

NOTE: The birth of Jesus established the second part of the Holy Triune. God, "the Father" being the first part, Jesus is "the Son" being the second. After Jesus completed His sacrificial ordeal (His baptism, according to Luke 12:50.), the Holy Ghost, the third part of the Holy Triune, became mankind's liason to the Father.

The serious bible student should study the whole of God's word to learn about who the Holy Triune is, (God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.) and why and how it affects God's overall plan for the redemption of mankind.

From the creation of all things earthly, to the birth of Jesus, God the Father, by using His angels, dealt either one on one with His people, or through the words and leadership of His divinely inspired prophets. Jesus came to be mankind's intercessor between themselves and the Father, God. After Jesus made His supreme sacrifice for the sins of mankind, The Holy Spirit was sent to be a liason between God and man/woman.

I don't mean to confuse today's lesson, but in order to fully understand the New Testament ministry of Jesus and the later coming of the Holy Spirit, one must first understand the "operation of God" from the beginning to the end of eternity.~

Lesson 739

(Lesson 739)(08-28-13) Today's lesson concerns the immaculate conception and birth of Jesus, the only begotten Son of God. Our quote is Matthew 1:18-25,

"Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS."

The divine birth, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus is the single most earth shaking chain of events that have occurred since God's creation of the earth and man.

As this scripture says, Jesus was conceived by the Holy Ghost and began His life as a perfect Child, un-defiled by the sin that is inherent in man since the fall of Adam.

We will learn as these lessons progress, that it was imperative that Jesus be born perfect, live a perfect sin-free life, and die perfect. Having NO sin charged against Him.

Jesus, being a Jew, was required to live in total obedience to the The Law of Moses that God had placed on His chosen people, the Jewish race. That law required many things of Him that the law of grace does not demand of Christians today. However, the law of grace could not take affect until Jesus had completed His testament and His sacrificial ordeal. Thereby, paying the sin debt for all who would place their faith in Him.

Hebrews 5:9, "And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;"~

Lesson 738

(Lesson 738)(08-27-13) With today's lesson, we start with Matthew 1:1 and will cover every individual lesson, all the way through The Revelation.

"The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations."

Our quote contains the first seventeen verses of Matthew and relate to us a blood lineage from Abraham, all the way down to Jesus.

This record tells us that the bloodline of Jesus, just as the prophets testified, can be traced all the way back to the House of David, and prove Him to be "the root of Jesse".

Romans 15:12 tells us that Jesus was the "root of Jesse", "And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust."

Jesse was the father of king David, the beloved of God.

The old testament and the prophets clearly lay out the groundwork for the coming of Christ, and the reason for His coming. I recommend that any serious bible student make a thorough study of the Old testament History of the Jews and the writings of the prophets of God, in order to fully understand the significance of many of the New Testament lessons.~

Lesson 737

(Lesson 737)(08-26-13) Today's lesson is taken from Matthew 5:5-25. This lesson not only demonstrates how the lost can be eternally saved, but also demonstrates that the eternal security of those who believe, is secured at the moment of salvation.

"And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath. The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed. He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk. Then asked they him, What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed, and walk? And he that was healed wist not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place. Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee. The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole. And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day. But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God. Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live."

Jesus assured those of us whom have accepted His grace, been saved, and given our sins over to Him, that the deed is done, there is no possibility of reversing it and becoming lost again.

Verse 24, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life."

Lets dissect this verse 24 to establish what it actually says; "Everlasting life, as Jesus refers to it, is life in heaven that never ends. We know Jesus must be referring to the life of our inner spirit, our soul, since Hebrews 9:27 tells us "it is appointed unto man, once to die", referring to our earthly bodies.

In reference to those who believe in Him, Jesus says that person "hath" everlasting life, meaning that person already possesses that everlasting life, its not something he/she might inherit at some later point after their earthly life is over, he/she possesses everlasting life at the moment of his/her believing.

Lesson 736

(Lesson 736)(08-26-13) Today's lesson concerns the conversion of Saul, a Jew who was also a Roman citizen and well known tormentor of Christian Jews. This torturous Saul, after his conversion, became known as Paul, Jesus' hand picked Apostle and preacher to the Gentiles.

Acts 9:1-20, "And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink. And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God."

The Apostle Paul was converted much like those of us who are saved today. Just like Paul, we: (1.) we must be convicted, by the Holy Spirit, of the guilt brought upon us through the sin of Adam. (2) we must then acknowledge that God is real, and that He is the ultimate authority over all things, always. (3.) we must realize that through the sin of Adam, we are born sinful and we all stand, when we have reached the age of accountability, condemned to die a spiritual death, separated from the love of God, for eternity. (4.) we must believe that God, in his divine grace, saw fit to give us a chance to be redeemed to His presence. (5) we must accept that grace, and believe that because of that grace, God sent His only begotten son as a perfect, living sacrifice for the sins of all who will believe in Him. (5) we must place ALL our faith in Jesus and what He did when He died, was buried and resurrected on the third day. (6) we must believe that by and through that faith, we take on His righteousness and become justified for our own sinfulness, allowing the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ to carry away our sin, and present us lily white and wholly righteous before God.~

Lesson 735

(Lesson 735)(08-24-13) Today's lesson comes from Luke 13:23-27, "Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. 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: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity."

In this lesson Jesus makes it clear that many who attempt to redeem themselves, by following the lead of what is popular, will fail and be left standing outside the figurative door when the final trumpet sounds.

It is imperative that those who are lost should "enter in at the strait gate", just as Jesus said.

You might ask, how do I find that "strait" gate? Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us exactly how to enter in at the "strait gate", "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."
Romans 10:20-26, "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus."

That "strait gate" Jesus refers to is His sacrifice for the sins of the world. That sacrifice is the ONLY gate that leads to eternal life.~

Lesson 734

(Lesson 734)(08-23-13) Today's lesson begins a new series concerning how Jesus defines salvation and what one must do the achieve it.

Our lesson is taken from Matthew 19:26-30, "And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions: Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first."

The man in this quote asked Jesus directly , "Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" Jesus replied, "keep the commandments".

This direction seems to contradict what Paul tells us in Ephesians 2:8-9, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. The question becomes, how can we be saved without the works required under the law?

In order to make these two totally different demands come together, one must remember that until Jesus had completed His sacrificial ordeal, and had ascended to the Father in heaven, the Jews were still bound by the commandments of the Mosaic law.

We must remember too, that Jesus was a Jew, and in order for Him to be counted as perfect under the law, He had to obey the law to the fullest until He had completed His testament, and thereby fulfilled that law.

That meant too, that He could not teach salvation by grace until the sins of all the world had been atoned by His death, burial, and resurrection. To do so would have also been considered blasphemy and a violation of the same law He was divinely sent to fulfill.

After Jesus underwent His sacrificial ordeal, and ascended back to the Father, the Mosaic law

was done away, and the new law of salvation by grace through faith was born.

Under the new law of Grace, we are still bound to achieve the righteousness such as would come with full obedience to the law, however, we attain that righteousness, NOT by works of the law, but by having absolute faith in Jesus Christ. This contention is very plainly explained by Paul in Romans, 4:4-8, "Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin."

Thank God for the NEW law of grace! ~

Lesson 733

(Lesson 733)(08-22-13) Today's lesson is a continuance of our lessons on faith, and the third in the series.

We saw in the last verse of yesterday's quote, Paul said, "So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God."

That statement takes us into verses nine and ten of todays quote, wherein Paul, speaking to those of faith said, "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. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness."

Our lesson today is taken from Romans 8:9-24;

"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. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?"

Paul makes it very clear that those who rely on the actions of the flesh, are bound to the rewards of the flesh. The reward of the flesh is death. However, Paul then says, that those who live their lives according to the spirit of Christ, are incapable of committing fleshly sins that condemn the eternal soul.

Paul goes on, in the final verse of today's quote, to explain how we are eternally saved; "For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?"

Paul's use of the word "hope" in this quote is representative of faith as demonstrated in Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen."

This lesson, again, confirms that eternal salvation comes by faith, and faith alone. Mankind CANNOT live a life in the flesh worthy of God's grace. That was accomplished by only one man, Jesus! His righteousness is available to all who will place their FAITH in Him.~

Lesson 732

(Lesson 732)(08-21-13) Todays lesson is an extension of the lessons from the last two days and deals with the spiritual and carnal man or woman. It is taken from the eighth chapter of Romans wherein Paul is explaining how salvation works and what affect it has on the day to day lives of those of us whom have been saved.

Verses one through eight:

Paul said, "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: THAT THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE LAW MIGHT BE FULFILLED IN US, WHO WALK NOT IN THE FLESH, BUT AFTER THE SPIRIT. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God."

As is clearly affirmed in this chapter, there are two distinctly different entities within a human man or woman. One being the earthly, carnal part that goes about day to day, generally doing the things that are contrary to the will of God because there is NO righteousness in the carnal body. The other is the inner, spiritual part, the soul. The soul, or spiritual part is that part that can be redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ upon acceptance of God's grace. The carnal, or earthly part is condemned to die, the spiritual part can be eternally saved by placing ones faith in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the remission of ALL sins.

In the first eight verses of this chapter, Paul explains that NO "carnal" (earthly) man or woman, can live a life that is "good" enough to be pleasing in the sight of God. Therefore, He sent Jesus as a 'one time fits all' sacrifice for the sins of the inner, spiritual man or woman. The acceptance of that sacrifice allows the old earthly body to die, but returns the spiritual, glorified body to the presence of God in heaven.

Is Paul teaching that those of us whom are saved by the grace of God can do or act any way we choose and get by with it? So far as what the Father sees in our carnal bodies, YES! On the other hand, will Jesus, our judge and intercessor, let us get by with those things He has forbidden us to do, such as mistreating others? NO! Jesus WILL judge His own, and will chasten (punish) every act of disobedience that is charged to the saved carnal man or woman. However, that punishment will come in the flesh, while we live here on earth.

Paul explains that the law, those rules that were totally fulfilled by the sacrifice of Jesus, and that many today impose upon themselves, exposed the weakness of the fleshly, carnal body, in that no man or woman could obey them.

Thank God, He provided redemption for us through the perfectness of His only begotten Son!

We will continue this series of lessons tomorrow.~

Lesson 731

(Lesson 731)(08-20-13) Todays lesson is the second part of a series of lessons on faith from the book of Romans.

I stated yesterday that today we would study into the concept of the inner, spiritual man/woman, and the outer carnal man/woman. We will instead, delve into that study later in the week.

Today's lesson comes from the fifth chapter of Romans.

In this chapter, Paul very eloquently explains "the operation of God" that is mentioned in Colossians 2:12, "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."

In Romans five, Paul explains that by the disobedience of Adam all mankind were accursed and condemned to death. He also explains that by the obedience of Jesus, the opportunity for life everlasting was returned to those who are willing to accept it.

Romans chapter five, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 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: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. 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. 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. 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. 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.) 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. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord."

We should notice that FAITH is the ONLY requirement for, not just forgiveness, but JUSTIFICATION for our sins.

Those of us who believe in Jesus Christ have been baptized (immersed or buried) into His righteousness and now have that righteousness imputed into us unto eternal life.~

Lesson 730

(Lesson 730)(08-19-13) Today's lesson on faith is taken from the fourth chapter of Romans. In this lesson Paul, very clearly, demonstrates the meaning of faith and how faith becomes "good works" within those who choose to accept the sacrifice of Christ and who choose to have the righteousness of Jesus Christ imputed into them.

"What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect: Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, there is no transgression. Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all, (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, even God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were. Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification."

There is no clearer example of the fruits of faith than those described by Paul in this lesson. He makes it very clear that not only are our sins forgiven when we accept Christ, but that they are JUSTIFIED. How great is that? Our all powerful loving God, through Jesus Christ, has JUSTIFIED every action of all those who place their FAITH in Him.

If you doubt what I have said here, read this chapter over and over again until it's meaning comes clear.

Sadly there are those who claim to be saved by grace yet rely upon themselves to maintain that salvation, fearing that if they commit a sin and don't immediately repent it and ask forgiveness, and happen to die in the meantime, they are again doomed to hell. That is so very very wrong. Simply asking forgiveness does not RE-SAVE anyone. There is NO halfway lost! You are either condemned because of your sins, or you are saved by the grace of God through FAITH in Jesus Christ and have had your sins remitted.

There are two elements to every human being, the spiritual man/woman, and the carnal man/woman. That is the second part of today's lesson and we will venture into it as we continue tomorrow.

NOTE: Am I saying that Christian people should do as they please and abandon all that is considered good? NO!! I'll try to explain that in tomorrows portion of this lesson also.~

Lesson 729

(Lesson 729)(08-18-13) Todays lesson of faith is taken from Romans chapter 3, "What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as a man) God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world? For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also judged as a sinner? And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just. What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness: Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes. Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law."

Paul, the Apostle Jesus hand picked to minister to those of us who are Gentiles, in this chapter,lays out the essence and fruits of faith plainer than it is found anywhere else in the entire bible. Therefore, I won't attempt to add much to it.

Through faith in God through a virgin born, sacrificed, and risen Jesus, we are all JUSTIFIED in everything we do from now until the day of our redemption.
Many of today's isms teach that in order to maintain our eternal salvation, we must live a perfect, sin free, life. Paul makes it very clear in this lesson that what we do here on earth after we have accepted the grace of God through Jesus Christ has NO bearing on our eternal salvation, one way or another. 1 John 3:9 also assures us that sin is not in those who are saved,"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."

Will ONLY the righteous receive eternal salvation, yes. How do we achieve that righteousness? By FAITH. Romans 4:4-8, "Now to him that worketh is the reward NOT reckoned of grace, BUT OF DEBT. But to him that WORKETH NOT, but BELIEVETH on him that JUSTIFIETH THE UNGODLY, his FAITH is counted for RIGHTEOUSNESS. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom GOD IMPUTETH RIGHTEOUSNESS WITHOUT WORKS, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are FORGIVEN, and whose SINS ARE COVERED. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will NOT impute sin."

After Adam's fall, there has been only one Man, in the history of the world, who lived a life to the perfection required to redeem us all to the Father, that Man is Jesus Christ. Without His perfection imputed into us because of our faith in Him, we would be doomed to eternal torment outside the presence of God, in hell.~

Lesson 728

(Lesson 728)(08-17-13) Today's lesson of faith comes from Acts 20:17-32, "And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified."

In this lesson, Paul said his final farewells to the Churches in Asia, and left for Jerusalem in hopes of getting there in time for Pentecost.

He reminded those with him of his unbending devotion to the gospel of Christ and how he had preached the pure gospel to them, "And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, REPENTANCE toward God, and FAITH toward our Lord Jesus Christ."

Those who might still believe that water baptism, or the works of the law, are a required part of the gospel of Christ as it relates to eternal salvation should take note, Paul lists neither water baptism, nor obedience to the law, among the things he preached to the Churches of Asia. He affirmed that he had preached ALL the gospel by saying, "I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you".

Paul himself clearly stated that he preached, "REPENTANCE toward God, and FAITH toward our Lord Jesus Christ." That IS the gospel of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 727

(Lesson 727)(08-16-13) Today's lesson on faith is taken from Acts 3:1-16, "Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God: And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him. And as the lame man which was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering. And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all."

That lame man was healed because his faith had brought him to the temple every day. He knew that some day, God would see fit to heal him. When Peter and John saw him, his faith was rewarded and he was healed. Peter makes it very clear that the man's faith is what healed him when, speaking of Jesus he said, "And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all."

The reward that was given to the lame man, as well as eternal life, is waiting for all who will only have faith in the name of Jesus Chirst, and believe.~

Lesson 726

(Lesson 726)(08-15-13) Our lesson today concerns a part of Jesus' message to his apostles the day before He was taken to be crucified. It is found in Luke 22:28-34, and relates to the lack of faith later demonstrated by Peter.

"Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.
And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.

The lesson in faith herein, comes from Jesus' acknowledgment that the all empowering faith required for saving the souls of mankind, could only be possible AFTER He had completed His sacrificial ordeal (His death, burial, resurrection and ascension). The strength Jesus provided to His disciples by His presence, disappeared after He was gone, but that strength would be replaced with the coming of the Holy Ghost at Pentecost.

Those who paid any attention in Sunday School knows that Peter, Just like Jesus said, denied even knowing Jesus three times the night before Jesus was crucified. In denying Jesus, Peter demonstrated the weakness of a faith that is not empowered by the Holy Spirit. Peter later receive that all empowering faith, but only after Jesus had completed His sacrificial ordeal.

This is verified when Jesus said, "But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and WHEN THOU ART CONVERTED, strengthen thy brethren." Jesus' prayer assured the Peter would follow through with assembling his brethren for the coming of the holy Ghost.

Jesus said, in essence, Peter would have sufficient faith to "strengthen" his brethren, after he was "converted" (Eternally saved, and secured, by the empowerment of the Holy Ghost).

It is very important to note that there could be NO salvation by grace, through FAITH, until Jesus had fully completed His divine sacrificial ordeal. To the Jews, the Mosaic law remained in full affect until Jesus had ascended.
Today's lesson tells us that in order to receive the absolute faith required to redeem ones eternal soul, one must first believe that Jesus is the Christ, the son of the living God and believe that He is able to remit sins. THEN, have that faith strengthened and SEALED by the Holy Spirit of Jesus Christ.~

Lesson 725

(Lesson 725)(08-14-13) Today's lesson on faith comes from Matthew 21:21, "Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done."
To establish context, we will quote verses 18-22. "Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered. And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away. And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away! Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive."

From this lesson we learn, again, that through faith, and by prayer, all things are possible for those who believe in Jesus Christ.

The fig tree was no more than a nuisance to Jesus, but He condemned to die without pause. This demonstrates two things; The first is that the fig tree could easily represent mankind in that if the tree, or the man/woman it represents, fails to bear fruit for Jesus, it is useless and will therefore be eternally destroyed. The second lesson is that no matter how trivial we might think our needs to be, if we simply pray with ABSOLUTE FAITH that our requests will be granted, and if our request is within the will of God, our request will be granted.

I capitalized absolute faith to stress the point that in order to receive desired answers to our prayers, we must demonstrate an unwavering faith.

Many pray like the man who went to bed and prayed that overnight the Lord would put, for him, a new car in his driveway, then got up the next morning, looked out the window, an said, "Just as I thought, no new car!"

If we pray over and over again for the same thing, we demonstrate a total lack of faith. If you truly believe that God answers the prayers of the faithful, then, by all means be faithful. Pray for what you want then leave it alone! God is omniscient, He will NOT forget that you prayed, nor will He forget why you prayed!

If we truly have faith in Jesus Christ, our deeds are presented to God as righteousness. Romans 4:4-8, "Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will NOT impute sin."

Through the righteousness imputed, by Christ, into those of us who believe, we, unlike the fig tree, demonstrate that imputed righteousness and thereby bear fruit sufficient to eternal life.~

Lesson 724

(Lesson 724)(08-13-13) Today's lesson on faith comes from the entire 23rd chapter of Matthew, "Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord."

In this sermon, Jesus blasted the Jewish leadership of that day for their blatant deceit, hypocrisy, and greed. He condemned them for their pretense and total lack of faith in verse 23, "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone."

Those Jews, just like many of today's "churches", and isms, demand that everyone practice the most minute elements of, what the deem to be, the law to perfection, while they, themselves, omit the three most critical elements of what defines a true child of God, "Judgment, mercy, and faith"
Just like those Scribes, Pharisees, and hypocrites of Jesus' time, many of today's "churches" talk the talk, but refuse to walk the walk.

The actions of those who say "do as I say, not as I do" demonstrates that they don't really have faith that there is a living God, at all. If they did truly believe in God, for what He really is, they would so fear His wrath that they would obey His every command purely out of fear.

Thank God! We who have accepted God's grace and through faith have turned our eternity over to Him through Jesus Christ, will NEVER suffer the horrible wrath that awaits those "hypocrites" who, by their own actions, demonstrate their lack of faith.~

Lesson 723

(Lesson 723)(08-12-13) Today's lesson on faith is found in Matthew 17:14-21, "And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting."

The Apostles had been unable to cast out the devil because they had placed their faith "prayer and fasting" and not totally in God through Jesus Christ.

This lesson demonstrates that unless we completely discount our own actions, (in this case fasting) and place absolute faith in God, our prayers will not be answered. Too many today make the mistake of trying to tie their own eternal salvation to some physical act or action they might take on, such as water baptism. Sadly, when the end has come they will find that salvation comes ONLY through ABSOLUTE faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the remission of all sin. Jesus MUST be relied upon to do it all, if we could wash away our sins in water, there would never have been a need for Jesus to die.

Here again is His promise to us, "for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you."~

Lesson 722

(Lesson 722)(08-11-13) Todays example of faith in found in Matthew 16:8. For context, our quote is from verses five through twelve, "And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees."

The Apostles totally misunderstood what Jesus was talking about when He mentioned the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. They thought Jesus was scolding them for fotgeting to bring food. Jesus, in reality, scolded them because of their demonstrated lack of faith. These same Apostles had witnessed, in the very recent past and first hand, the miracle of the loaves and fishes. On two separate occasions the faith demonstrated by Jesus had fed thousands and had baskets full of food left over.

Jesus had assured His Apostles in Matthew 10:9-10 that they need not ever be concerned about the things they might need on their journey to spread His gospel, "Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat."

The Apostles, relying on themselves instead of Jesus, were concerned about what they would eat, which prompted Jesus to say, "O ye of little faith".

Sadly "Christianity" today, qualifies for that same judgment, 'O we of little faith'. ~

Lesson 721

(Lesson 721)(08-10-13) Today's example Jesus' us of the word faith, is found in Mathew 15:28. To establish context, we will quote verses 22 through 28 of Matthew 15;

"And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil. But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us. But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour."

One of the things this lesson teaches us just how lowly the Gentiles were viewed in the eyes of the Jews. Jesus, Himself referred to the woman and her kind as "dogs". This did NOT however, prevent Him from performing the miracle the woman asked for by the demonstration of her faith in Him.

The lesson of faith that is taught by that woman comes from her persistence in getting her request to Jesus, faithful in the knowledge that He would heal her daughter if she could only ask Him, which He indeed did.

At that time, those who believed did not have an intercessor between them and God. Therefore, that woman couldn't simply pray through Jesus Christ that her daughter be healed, she had to find Jesus and ask Him personally.

Today however, we can simply pray for the things we need, including healing, and by having faith that God will hear our prayer, those prayers will be answered if our request is within the will of God.
Jesus recognized that the woman believed in Him and the power of God in Him to heal, "O woman, great is thy faith", and because of that faith, the woman's daughter was healed.~

Lesson 720

(Lesson 720)(08-09-13) Today's example of an expression of faith, lack thereof, is found in Matthew 14:31. To establish the context we will quote verses 22-32 of Matthew 14;

"And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased."

This lesson solidly establishes the difficulty of demonstrating perfect faith. Peter having walked and talked with Jesus, witnessing His awesome power day after day, still could not let go of his fear, rely totally on the knowledge that Jesus had, by saying "come" assured him that he would be ok, and walk on.

The faith that is required to save the eternal soul is the same faith that was required of Peter to walk on the water. He had to give up reliance on his own ability, which was destined to, and did fail He should have, if he had sufficient faith, put the entire responsibility on Jesus.

Sadly and in my opinion, a vast majority of today's, "Christians", run out onto the waters of life and/or eternity, with more faith in their own abilities, or some ritual action they have subjected themselves to, than in God through Jesus Christ. Like Peter, these "Christians" will inevitably sink.

The gospel clearly tells us that through faith in God through Jesus Christ, all things are possible, Matthew 19:24-26, "And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.".

In order to accomplish the things we desire to do with absolute assurance that they will be done, we must have and exercise an absolute faith in God's ability and willingness to grant that they be done.
Peter demonstrated his lack of faith by becoming afraid, considering the possibility that he might sink. Had he indeed had sufficient faith, fear would never have entered his mind, he would have simply walked on to Jesus.

The faith that is required to save the eternal souls of the lost, and/or to allow one to literally walk on water, must be absolute. Jesus stands on the water with His hand extended toward all who will abandon their fears and walk with Him to eternal life.~

Lesson 719

(Lesson 719)(08-08-13) Today's lesson on faith takes us to the example found in Matthew, 9:29. Our reference will involve Matthew 9:27-30, "And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, Thou Son of David, have mercy on us. And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They said unto him, yea, Lord. Then touched he their eyes, saying, according to your faith be it unto you, and their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, see that no man know it."

In this example, Jesus used both the words "faith", and "believe", in His conversation with the blind men. Believing, by definition, is an exercise of faith. Ones faith is expressed through his willingness to "believe".

In this example, Jesus first asked the blind men, "Believe ye that I am able to do this?" After verifying that the men did indeed "BELIEVE", Jesus said "according to your FAITH be it unto you", after which both men received their sight.
Did the blind men heal themselves? NO!! The exercise of their faith allowed the power of God to heal them ("according to") that faith.

Jesus placed no further requirement on these men except that they not speak of what had happened.

There's some significance in Jesus' telling those men to "see that no man know it.", in that, further reading in this chapter tells us that they directly and immediately disobeyed what Jesus instructed them to do. Did they lose their sight again because of it? No. Therefore, one could easily assume from this demonstration, that disobedience is not tied to whether, or not, one maintains the fruits of ones faith.~

Lesson 718

(Lesson 718)(08-07-13) Today's Lesson takes us to Matthew 9:1-2, "And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city. And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee."

When Jesus recognized the demonstration of faith that was displayed by both the sick man and those who brought him ("Jesus seeing their faith") He said,"thy sins are forgiven thee", thereby healing the man.

There are two very important things we can learn from this text. The first is that sin is what causes all the problems in our daily lives here on earth, even our illnesses are brought on by sin. The second is that having FAITH in God through His Son Jesus Christ, accomplishes forgiveness of ALL sin, upon the exercise of that faith by merely asking.

There are those of us who say we have faith, but when push comes to shove, we rely on ourselves until it becomes overwhelmingly evident to us that we are not going to get the job done, then we turn to God as a last resort. That is not a demonstration of true faith!

Just as those disciples in Matt. 8:26, after walking along side Jesus on a day to day basis and being first hand witnesses to His awesome power, did not exercise faith during the storm prompting Jesus to ask, "Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?"

Just as those scared disciples should have done, those of us who claim to believe and have faith in Jesus Christ should do, if what we are trying to do is within the perfect will of God, is to approach everything we confront KNOWING that we will get the job done because the power of God through Jesus Christ is behind us and WILL NOT allow us to fail.~

Lesson 717

(Lesson 717)(08-06-13) Today's lesson on faith takes us to Matthew 8:5-13, "And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him, And saying, Lord, my servant lieth at home sick of the palsy, grievously tormented. And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him. The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour."

That Centurion demonstrated absolute faith in Jesus, recognizing that He was the Son of God with all the power of the Father. The Centurion knew Jesus did not need to go, or do, anything physically. He knew, by faith, that Jesus was God in the form of a man, and had the power to heal his servant from anywhere simply by willing the healing to be so. Which, we learn later in the quote, He did.
Jesus raised up the faith of the Centurion before His fellow Jews to scorn them for their own lack of Faith in Him, "Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel."

Jesus goes on to say that, because of that lack of faith among His own people, the Jews, He would give over the authority of the Kingdom (His Church) to the Gentiles, "And I say unto you, That many *(Gentiles) shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, *(The fathers of the Jews) in the kingdom of heaven. But the children of the kingdom *(The Jews of Jesus' day) shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

*The words inclosed in parentheses, within the above quote, are not an actual part of what Jesus said, I added them to better clarify the intent.

Just as Jesus healed the Centurion's servant because of his unwavering faith, He stands ready to heal the sinful souls of all who will place that same unwavering faith in Him. "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Revelation 3:20.

It might seem that faith would come more easily to those who walked and talked with Jesus, watching Him perform miracle after miracle, like perhaps the Centurion. I don't believe that to be the case, I believe that through God's divine word, we are given an even clearer picture of the many miraculous things Jesus did and therefore it should be easier for us today to have faith, than it was for those who walked with Him.~

Lesson 716

(Lesson 716)(08-05-13) Today's lesson concerns the circumstances within which Jesus first invoked the word "faith". That usage appears in Matthew 6:30. For context, we will quote Matthew 6:19-34; "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."

Herein, Jesus very clearly explains what the word faith truly means for those who might dare to claim it. Jesus demonstrates, that to actually have faith, we must exercise it in everything we undertake in life. To exercise faith, we must allow ourselves to be wholly dependent upon God, through that faith, for EVERYTHING, ALWAYS. NEVER worrying about what tomorrow might bring, or how we will prepare for it. Because if we do indeed have faith, we KNOW God will provide it all for us.

Does this mean we should just lie down and do nothing? No! We are to step forward and reach out for those things necessary to life, and the things that make us happy, because the effort of getting up and acting is also an exercise of our faith in that reaching out is a demonstration of faith. We are also to reach out for those things that simply make us happy and are not necessary to life because they too are a part of God's promise.

A perfect example of most of modern "Christianity" is found in James 4:2, "Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not."
We "ask not" because instead of exercising our faith, we rely on ourselves and demonstrate a lack of the absolute faith in God that assures that our prayer will be answered.

To me, the following are some of the most humbling words that are written in the gospel of Jesus Christ, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."

How do we achieve "his righteousness"? Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness." Romans 4:4-5.~

Lesson 715

(Lesson 715)(08-14-13) The words 'faith or faithful' appear in the New Testament approximately one hundred times. Some grammatical form of the word 'believe' appears approximately three hundred seventy times. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is wholly dependent on the application of these two words. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 2:8-9.
With any bible study it becomes very apparent that God always has and always will require faith and belief from those who seek His ultimate plan for the redemption of mankind.

In the old testament we find examples of faith that delivered many and some ultimately changed the face of the earth.

Noah demonstrated an awesome faith when he built the ark saving his family and all the creatures of the earth, he also suffered the ridicule of all those around him, simply on God's promise that the world would be destroyed by water.

Abraham's faith was such that he offered the life of his son Isaac to God knowing that God would provide something to ease his agony.

Job endured unthinkable misery and the loss of everything he owned, including his family, having faith that God, in the end, would make it all right. Because of Job's faith, God returned everything he had lost.
Moses demonstrated an awesome faith when he relocated an entire nation of people over the power of the Egyptian Pharaoh, simply through a promise given by God's voice from a mountain top. Through the power of his faith, Moses went on to part the sea, and provide an existence for the Hebrew people for forty years then lead them to the land God had promised.

There are many more examples of faith that are demonstrated in the old testament, and there are many truly great things that were accomplished through that faith.

As we undertake the study of faith and belief, and how we should apply those two words to our lives, lets do it having faith that in the end the Lord's will shall be done in all of us always.

Lesson 714

(Lesson 714)(08-03-13) Today we will begin a series of Lessons on "faith" and "belief", and what the New Testament application of those two terms demand of those of us who commit ourselves to them.

The most well known example of faith was demonstrated by Jesus, a virgin born human male, divinely ordained as God in the body and mind of a man, "the only begotten Son of God".

This same Jesus demonstrated absolute faith when he took it upon Himself to suffer and die a horrible death so that through His testimony and sacrifice, mankind could receive eternal redemption from the sin brought upon us by Adam.

Jesus perfectly demonstrated what the fruits of faith can be. Although He was personally confronted by Satan himself and offered vast kingdoms if He would only deny God, (temptations the magnitude of which you or I will ever have to endure.) and was threatened repeatedly and eventually crucified by His own people, His faith persevered to the end. Because of that absolute persevering faith, Jesus was resurrected after three days, just as God the Father had promised.
Jesus, by remaining faithful to the end, demonstrated to us that if we only we have faith in God, He will, through Jesus Christ, grant ANYTHING we will ever want.~

Lesson 713

(Lesson 713)(08-02-13) Today's is the last lesson in the series on the term "baptize" and it's grammatical variations. The last appearance of the term "baptism" is found in 1 Peter 3:21.

Our quote will include verses 18-22 of 1 Peter chapter 3, "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him."

There are some who contend that because Peter, in the above quote, said, "eight souls were saved by water", and "baptism doth also now save us", one MUST be "baptized" (immersed) in water to attain eternal salvation. That contention is not, in any way, supported by the New Testament gospel as it concerns both "baptism" and eternal salvation.

Does "baptism" save the souls of those who accept it? Absolutely!! However, the soul saving "baptism" is that same "baptism" Jesus said He was about to endure in Luke 12:50, which says, "But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!" Jesus was referring to the, at that time, soon to come sacrificial ordeal He would undergo to accomplish remission of sins for all who would place their faith in Him. That "baptism", in no way, exemplifies, a water "baptism".

One is saved by immersing oneself, by faith, into that "baptism" that Jesus afforded with His death, burial, and resurrection.

The term "baptism" as it appears in 1 Peter 3:21 refers to the immersion of Jesus Christ into His sin remitting sacrifice for all who will place their faith in Him unto the redemption of the eternal soul. "For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit", that act is the "baptism" that saves.~