Category Salvation

Are you WASHED?

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Far from a mere ritual, BAPTISM is a divinely ordained step that aligns believers with Christ’s redemptive work. Through baptism, individuals experience a cleansing of sins, union with Christ’s church, salvation, and an inheritance as heirs of God’s promises.

1. Washing Away Our Sins

Baptism serves as a divine act of cleansing, washing away the stain of sin. In Acts 22:16, Ananias urges Saul, “And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.” This passage emphasizes baptism’s role in cleansing the believer’s conscience before God. Similarly, Acts 2:38 declares, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Here, baptism is linked directly to the remission of sins and the reception of the Holy Spirit. Additionally, Matthew 26:28 connects the concept of forgiveness to Christ’s sacrifice: “For this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Baptism, therefore, is the moment when a believer appropriates the forgiveness secured by Christ’s blood. Supporting this, Ephesians 5:26 describes Christ sanctifying the church “by the washing of water with the word,” reinforcing baptism’s cleansing power.

2. Added to the Church That Christ Built

Through baptism, believers are united with the body of Christ, the church He established. Acts 2:47 states, “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” This follows the account of 3,000 souls being baptized and added to the church after Peter’s sermon (Acts 2:41). Baptism is the entry point into Christ’s church, as seen in 1 Corinthians 12:13: “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” This passage highlights the unity of believers in the church through baptism. Additionally, Colossians 1:18 affirms Christ as “the head of the body, the church,” underscoring that baptism incorporates individuals into this divine institution, built by Christ Himself (Matthew 16:18).

3. Saved Through Baptism

Baptism is intricately tied to salvation, as it is the moment when a believer’s faith is actualized in obedience to God’s command. 1 Peter 3:21 explicitly states, “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” This verse clarifies that baptism is not a mere physical cleansing but a spiritual act that appeals to God for salvation. Mark 16:16 further supports this: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” The connection between baptism and salvation is also evident in Romans 6:3-4, which describes believers being “baptized into his death” and raised to “walk in newness of life,” symbolizing the transformative power of baptism in securing salvation.

4. Becoming Heirs of Abraham

Baptism establishes believers as heirs of the promises made to Abraham, uniting them in God’s covenant family. Galatians 3:27-29 explains, “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ… And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.” Through baptism, believers become part of the spiritual lineage of Abraham, inheriting the blessings of God’s covenant. Romans 4:16 reinforces this, stating that the promise to Abraham comes “to the one who shares the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all.” Additionally, Ephesians 3:6 affirms that through the gospel, Gentiles are “fellow heirs” with Israel, a reality actualized in baptism as believers are incorporated into Christ’s body.

5. Putting on Christ

In baptism, believers clothe themselves with Christ, taking on His identity and righteousness. Galatians 3:27 declares, “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” This vivid imagery portrays baptism as the moment when a believer is enveloped in Christ’s nature. Romans 13:14 echoes this, urging believers to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” a process initiated at baptism. Colossians 3:9-10 further supports this idea, describing believers as having “put off the old self with its practices and… put on the new self,” a transformation that begins with baptism’s symbolic burial and resurrection (Colossians 2:12).

6. Becoming a Disciple of Christ

Baptism marks the beginning of a life of discipleship, as believers commit to following Christ. Matthew 28:19 commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Baptism is the initiatory step in making disciples, signifying a public commitment to Christ’s teachings. Acts 8:12 illustrates this: “But when they believed Philip as he preached good news… they were baptized, both men and women,” showing that baptism follows belief and marks the start of discipleship. John 3:5 further emphasizes baptism’s role in entering the kingdom of God: “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God,” linking baptism to the disciple’s journey of faith.

Baptism is far more than a symbolic act; it is a transformative moment in the believer’s life, rich with spiritual significance. Through baptism, sins are washed away, believers are added to Christ’s church, salvation is received, the promises to Abraham are inherited, Christ is put on, and a lifelong journey of discipleship begins. These truths, grounded in Scripture, underscore baptism’s ESSENTIAL role in the Christian faith.

AGAPE

The DOOR was shut, Matthew 25:10

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In Matthew 25:10, within the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus declares, “And while they were going to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut.” This vivid imagery underscores a sobering truth: opportunities for salvation and readiness have limits. The shutting of the door represents finality, a point of no return in our spiritual journey. How, then, is this door shut in practical application? Scripture reveals four key ways that the door becomes shut.

First, death is a closed door. Hebrews 9:27 states, “It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.” Life is the season for repentance and faith, but death ends that opportunity, once life ends, the opportunity for repentance ceases. The parable’s foolish virgins, unprepared when the bridegroom arrived, mirror those who delay repentance, assuming time remains. Death seals our choices, shutting the door to further chances to accept God’s grace by obeying the gospel. This urges us to live ready, embracing salvation now, as tomorrow is not promised (2 Corinthians 6:2). Like the foolish virgins who scrambled too late to prepare, those who postpone turning to Christ risk facing eternity unprepared. This reality presses us to act now, (by obeying the gospel through baptism by through faith, Colossians 2:11-12) because no one knows their final hour (James 4:14). Death’s finality demands we live ready.

Second, obstinance toward the Holy Spirit shuts the door. Acts 7:51 warns against resisting the Spirit, who convicts us of sin and guides us to truth (John 16:8). Rejecting the revealed Word (God’s plan for salvation through Christ and call to godliness) hardens the heart. Like Pharaoh, who ignored God’s signs (Exodus 8:15), persistent refusal to heed Scripture’s clear path (John 3:16; Acts 2:38) closes the door to grace. Jesus warned of blasphemy against the Spirit as an unforgivable sin (Matthew 12:31-32), reflecting a willful, persistent refusal to accept God’s way. The foolish virgins’ lack of oil mirrors this neglect, choosing self-reliance over surrender. The foolish virgins’ neglect of oil symbolizes this willful unpreparedness, choosing self over surrender to God’s Spirit. To keep the door open, we must heed the Spirit’s prompting today through the revealed word in scripture.

Third, refusing to open the door Jesus knocks upon seals our exclusion. Revelation 3:20 declares, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in.” Salvation is a personal choice; Jesus invites, but we must respond. Ignoring His call (through apathy, pride, or worldly distractions) leaves us outside the feast, as the virgins discovered. Scripture laments those who reject God’s invitation (Luke 14:24), underscoring that an unopened heart shuts the door to eternal life. There are several examples of those who turned away from Jesus. The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16-22). Some of Jesus’ Disciples (John 6:60-66). Answering Jesus now ensures entry.

Fourth, Christ’s return will shut the door finally for all. Matthew 25:31-46 describes the judgment day, when Christ separates the ready from the unprepared. The bridegroom’s arrival in the parable foreshadows this moment, when “the Son of Man comes” unexpectedly (Matthew 24:44). No further chances remain; every soul will account for their faith and deeds (2 Corinthians 5:10). As God shut the ark’s door before the flood (Genesis 7:16), Christ’s return will close salvation’s offer, finalizing destinies. On that day, “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” (2Peter 3:10). This compels us to live in readiness, clothed in Christ (Galatians 3:27), faith and obedience.

Matthew 25:10 is a call to vigilance. Death’s certainty, the Spirit’s voice, Jesus’ knock, and Christ’s return all remind us: the door is open now, but not forever. Like the wise virgins, we must prepare (embracing salvation, yielding to God’s Spirit, welcoming Christ, and awaiting His return). Let us act before the door is shut, securing our place at the eternal feast.

Calling on the name of the Lord: What is it really?

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Calling on the name of the Lord:

Prayer or obedience?

Acts 22:16 (KJV) states:

“And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

This verse records Ananias’ instructions to Saul (later Paul) regarding his conversion. To understand what it means to “call on the name of the Lord,” we must look at how the Bible defines and uses this phrase.

1. Calling on the Name of the Lord Involves Obedience

Acts 22:16 ties “calling on the name of the Lord” directly to baptism, which is the moment when Saul’s sins were washed away. This aligns with Jesus’ own words in Mark 16:16:

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

Calling on the name of the Lord, then, is not merely a verbal plea but involves obedient action. This is further clarified by Romans 10:13-14:

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”

Paul, writing later, shows that calling on the Lord’s name requires hearing the gospel, believing, and responding in obedience.

2. Calling on the Name of the Lord Is Not Just Prayer

Some assume that calling on the Lord’s name is merely saying a prayer for salvation, but Scripture does not support this idea. Consider Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:21:

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”

Merely addressing Jesus as Lord does not save—doing His will does. This is consistent with Acts 22:16, where Paul had already been praying (Acts 9:11), yet he still needed to be baptized to wash away his sins.

3. Biblical Examples of Calling on the Name of the Lord

The phrase “call on the name of the Lord” is used throughout Scripture in connection with worship and obedience.

• Genesis 4:26 – “Then began men to call upon the name of the LORD.” This refers to worship and devotion to God.

• Joel 2:32 (quoted in Acts 2:21) – “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered.” This was fulfilled in Acts 2, where Peter preached that repentance and baptism in Jesus’ name were necessary for salvation (Acts 2:38).

In Acts 2, the people called upon the Lord by obeying Peter’s command to repent and be baptized. This directly parallels Acts 22:16, where Paul was instructed to do the same.

So what now?

To “call on the name of the Lord” is to appeal to Him for salvation by faithful obedience to His commands. Acts 22:16 shows that Saul (Paul) did this when he was baptized, at which point his sins were washed away. This is consistent with how the phrase is used throughout the Bible—faith in action, not merely words.

Spencer

Franklin & Juniper St

church of Christ

Borger, Tx

What is the Value of your Soul?

The Preacher 1 Comment

What is the Value of YOUR Soul?

“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37).

The question of the soul’s worth is one that transcends time and culture, touching the very essence of human existence. Jesus Himself addressed this profound query in Mark 8:34-38 and Matthew 16:24-26, challenging us to consider the eternal value of our souls. Let us explore four pivotal aspects that underscore the immeasurable worth of a soul.

The Soul has great potential.

As living souls, we have much greater potential than all others of God’s creation. Technology, Arts, and Mercy are unique to humans. More than these, we have the potential to become like Christ. “So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body” (1Cor 15:42-44). When we obey the gospel, we look forward to eternal life with our Savior and to see Him as He is, (cf. Rev 22:4).

The Soul Lives Forever

In Matthew 10:28, Jesus admonishes, “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” This declaration underscores the eternal nature of the soul, distinguishing it from our temporal physical bodies. The body may perish, but the soul endures beyond the grave, facing either eternal life or eternal punishment as stated in Matthew 25:46: “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”

The everlasting nature of the soul is a solemn reminder of its infinite value. Our earthly concerns often distract us from this reality, yet Jesus calls us to prioritize our spiritual well-being. The choices we make in this life have eternal consequences, emphasizing the need for a life aligned with God’s will.

The Soul is Unequal to Creation.

Jesus highlighted the incomparable worth of a soul by pointing to God’s providence over creation. In Matthew 6:26-30, He illustrates His care for the birds and the flowers, reminding us that we are of far greater value: “Are ye not much better than they?” Jesus also said that “the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (Matt 10:30). These passages underscore the unique and cherished place humanity holds in God’s creation.

“I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). This divine craftsmanship reflects the soul’s worth, a masterpiece of God’s creative power. Unlike the rest of creation, the human soul bears a unique value.

The Soul Originates from God.

The soul’s worth is further magnified by its divine origin. Acts 17:29 declares, “Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.” We are not merely physical beings but spiritual offspring of God, created in His image.

Genesis 1:26-27 records God’s decision to create humanity in His likeness, endowing us with attributes that reflect His nature: “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” The Preacher reminds us that at death, “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” (Ecc 12:7). The soul’s divine origin and destiny underscore its unparalleled worth, calling us to live in a manner that honors our Creator.

The Soul is Worth the Sacrifice of Christ for Its Salvation.

The ultimate measure of the soul’s worth is found in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. John 3:16, perhaps the most well-known verse in the Bible, proclaims, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This profound act of love underscores the soul’s value, worthy of the highest price (cf. Rom 5:8-10).

2Peter 3:9 emphasizes God’s desire for our salvation, stating, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” The sacrificial death of Christ on the cross is the ultimate testament to the worth of our souls, offering us redemption and eternal life.

In contemplating the worth of a soul, we must recognize its eternal nature, its unparalleled value in creation, its divine origin, and the supreme sacrifice made for its salvation. As we reflect on these truths, let us heed Jesus’ call in Mark 8:34-38 and Matthew 16:24-26 to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. For in doing so, we affirm the immeasurable worth of our souls and align our lives with God’s eternal purpose.

Agape,
Spencer

This article is from a series of sermons on the Gospel of Mark. Click here for the list of available articles on the Gospel of Mark.

John 3:16, the greatest verse

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“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

The Greatest Being

The verse begins with “FOR GOD.” The verse begins with the greatest being in existence. In Genesis 1:1, we read, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” God is the Creator, the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. John 1:1-3 tells us, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.” Job 38-41 presents a majestic depiction of God’s power and wisdom. Our faith rests upon the foundation of this greatest being, who is sovereign over all creation.

The Greatest Thing

Next, we see the greatest thing: “SO LOVED.” God is love. In 1Corinthians 13:13, we learn that “the greatest of these is love.” 1John 4:8 declares, “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” God’s love is unparalleled and incomprehensible. It is a love that is willing to sacrifice, a love that seeks the well-being of others. It is the greatest thing because it defines the actions of the greatest being.

The Greatest Number

“THE WORLD.” This phrase encompasses the greatest number: the entire world. God’s love is not limited to a select few but extends to every person on this earth. 2Peter 3:9 states, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 1Timothy 2:4-6 reinforces this by saying, “Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.” 1John 2:2 confirms that “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” The greatest number shows the expanse of God’s love. God is not a respecter of persons (Rom 2:11).

The Greatest Gift

“THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON.” In this we see the greatest gift. Ephesians 2:8 reminds us that “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Hebrews 2:9 tells us, “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” 2Corinthians 9:15 exclaims, “Thanks be unto God for his indescribable gift!” The greatest gift (grace) is God’s own Son, given for the redemption of mankind.

The Greatest Faith

“THAT WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH IN HIM.” This phrase highlights the greatest faith. Jesus declares in John 8:24, “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.” Hebrews 3:18-19 warns of the consequences of unbelief as seen through disobedience, while Hebrews 11:6 teaches that “without faith it is impossible to please God.” The greatest faith is an active belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of the world (James 2:14-26).

The Greatest Loss

“SHOULD NOT PERISH.” The greatest loss is the eternal separation from God. While any can be saved, the bible tells us that not all will obey the Gospel (Matt 7:24-29; 2Thess 1:8-9). Matthew 25:46 warns of “everlasting punishment,” and John 5:29 speaks of those who will “resurrection of damnation.” The story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:19-31 vividly portrays the torment of those who perish. 2Corinthians 5:10 reminds us that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” The greatest loss is the eternal consequence of rejecting God’s gift of salvation.

The Greatest Difference

“BUT.” While all may be saved, some won’t obey the gospel. “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Heb 5:9). Some will hear, but not do; “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” (Matt 7:24-27). Many may confess Jesus as Lord and Savior, but not do what He says, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46)?

The Greatest Blessing

“HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE.” Finally, we come to the greatest blessing. 1Thessalonians 4:13-18 describes the hope of the resurrection and the promise of eternal life with Christ. Everlasting life is the ultimate blessing, the fulfillment of God’s promise to those who believe.

John 3:16 is a verse that reveals to us the greatest being, the greatest thing, the greatest number, the greatest gift, the greatest faith, the greatest loss, and the greatest blessing. Let us hold fast to this truth, share it with others, and walk in the light of God’s incredible love and grace.

Agape, Spencer

How to be saved according to the Bible

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People often appeal to single passages on how to be saved, but ignore an entire book in the New Testament that shows people going from a lost condition to being saved. That book is called ACTS. It contains the founding of the church of Christ at Pentecost, and the conversion of the lost to salvation in Christ Jesus.

Cases of Conversion in the book of Acts.

1. The first of these conversions happened on the notable day of Pentecost when the church was established. The text (Acts 2:14) shows that they had the Gospel preached to them; they heard (vv. 36-37); they repented of their sins (v. 38); and they were baptized into Christ (v. 38). The result was that they had their sins washed away. 

2. In Acts 8:4-5, Phillip preached to the people of Samaria; they heard (v. 6); they were baptized (v. 12).

3. Phillip also preached to Simon (Acts 8:4-5); he heard the Gospel (v. 6); he was baptized (v. 13).

4. Phillip preached to the Eunuch (Acts 8:35-39); he made the good confession (v. 37); he was baptized (v. 38) and rejoiced in the forgiveness of his sins (v. 39).

5. Ananias preached to Saul, later called Paul (Acts 9:17); he was baptized (Acts 22:16), and the rest of his life he taught others to do the same (I Cor. 12:13).

6. Peter preached to Cornelius (Acts 10:34-35); he and his family heard (v. 44); they repented of their sins (Acts 11:18); they were baptized (v. 48). They were saved (Acts 11:14).

7. Paul preached the saving message to Lydia on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:13); she heard (v. 14); she was baptized (v. 15).

8. Paul preached to the Jailor (Acts 16:32); he repented (v. 33); he was baptized (v. 33).

9. Paul preached to and converted souls at Corinth (Acts 18:5); they heard (v. 8); they were baptized (v. 8).

10. Paul preached to Crispus (Acts 18:5); though it is not recorded in the book of Acts that he was baptized, he was baptized according to Paul’s writing to the Corinthian church (1Cor. 1:14).

11. The Ephesians had the Gospel preached to them (Acts 19:8); they heard the message of salvation (Eph. 1:13). They were baptized (Acts 19:5) and were in this way saved by grace (Eph. 2:8-10).

agape,

spencer

Here is a link to another article on the conversions in Acts.

Can one be baptized AMISS?

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“Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” (James 4:3)

If one can pray AMISS, then it stands to reason that we can do other commands of God in a manner that He won’t accept. There are examples of people…

Preaching a different Gospel: “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” (Gal 1:8)

Following a different Jesus: “For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.” (2Cor 11:4)

Obeying the Law of Moses: “And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.” (Acts 15:1)

“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. For I testify again to every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do the whole law. Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace.” (Gal 5:1-4)

Practicing vain worship: “Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” (Mark 7:7)

From these few examples it’s clear that we can appear to be obeying God, but in reality, we’re disobedient. How can we know?

Can we be Baptized AMISS?

If you’ve been baptized to be ADDED to a denomination, then you’ve been baptized AMISS.

The Lord adds to the church, and never to a denomination. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.” (Acts 2:41).

Getting baptized solely as a requirement to join a specific denomination or church, rather than for the biblical purpose of remission of sins and entrance into the body of Christ (Galatians 3:27), misses the true purpose (cf. 1Cor 1:10-13).

Some might get baptized to gain favor in a political or social context, which is not a biblical reason. Some might seek baptism to gain prestige or authority within a religious community, which is not a biblical reason.

If you’ve been baptized as a MERITORIOUS work, then you’ve been baptized AMISS.

Some believe that baptism is a meritorious work that earns salvation, whereas the New Testament teaches that baptism is an act of faith and obedience (Ephesians 2:8-9; Colossians 2:12). It is not legalism to comply with the conditions of salvation given by God.

Any reason for baptism except to obey the gospel through faith in Jesus Christ for the remission of sins is no reason at all. It’s possible to outwardly comply with a command of God, but inwardly. “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” (Matt 15:8,9)

Believing that baptism will bring material or physical blessings, such as health, wealth, or prosperity, is not a biblical reason for baptism. Repentance is a prerequisite for baptism (Acts 2:38).

If you’ve been baptized as an INFANT or by any mode other than IMMERSION, then you’ve been baptized AMISS.

Infant baptism is contrary to the doctrine of Christ. “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.” (Mark 10:14,15). To Cleanse from Original Sin is not a doctrine taught in the New Testament. The doctrine of original sin and its cleansing through infant baptism is not supported by the Bible, which teaches that baptism is for the remission of personal sins (Acts 2:38).

Baptism is a burial (immersion in water) for those that believe. “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.” (Col 2:12). Getting baptized without personal faith and understanding, possibly under coercion or pressure, is not scriptural. Baptism requires belief.

“And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” (Acts 8:36,37)

If you’ve been baptized after you think you were SAVED, then you’ve been baptized AMISS.

The bible teaches that a person is baptized to be saved. “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:” (1Peter 3:21).

Saul of Tarsus (later to become Paul the Apostle), was baptized to wash away his sins. How can one be saved then have their sins washed away? “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” (Acts 22:16)

The idea that baptism is merely a symbolic public declaration of faith without any salvific purpose contradicts the biblical teaching that it is essential for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).

Viewing baptism as merely a religious tradition or ritual without understanding its significance in salvation contradicts the New Testament teaching (Romans 6:3-4).

If you’ve been baptized for SOCIAL acceptance, then you’ve been baptized AMISS.

There are some who are baptized for social acceptance among their Family or friends, or to fit in. Some have been baptized to make their parents happy. Some are baptized so they can make a future spouse happy. If we’re baptized to please a person and not for the remission of sins, then we’ve been baptized amiss. It’s a very nervous thing for parents who desire that their children obey the gospel, but they want it to be on the child’s own volition and not just to please their parents.

Jesus taught about counting the cost of discipleship (Luke 14:28-33). Baptism should not be entered into lightly or without understanding its lifelong commitment. The concept of being baptized because one has already been saved through a prior “decision” for Christ overlooks the New Testament’s connection of baptism with the forgiveness of sins and new birth (Acts 22:16; John 3:5).

I know of several young people who get baptized because their older peers had obeyed the gospel, rather than out of personal conviction and obedience to Christ. because they didn’t want to feel left out.

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

(Mark 16:16)

There are other reasons people give for baptism. The practice of baptism for the dead, as practiced in some religious groups, is not supported by New Testament teaching and is mentioned only ambiguously in 1 Corinthians 15:29 without endorsement.

The idea that baptism is an emergency ritual to be performed in dire circumstances, without the individual’s faith and understanding, does not align with the New Testament teaching.

Any reason for baptism that does not align with the biblical teaching that it is for the remission of sins, to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, and to be added to the body of Christ (Acts 2:38; 1Corinthians 12:13) is not according to the Bible.

It is crucial to emphasize that baptism, according to the New Testament, is an act of faith and obedience, necessary for the forgiveness of sins, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and entrance into the body of Christ (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:27).

If you have been baptized…

to be ADDED to a denomination…

as a MERITORIOUS work…

as an INFANT or by any mode other than IMMERSION…

after you think you were SAVED…

for SOCIAL acceptance…

…then you’ve been baptized AMISS.

Agape,

Spencer

What Can We Say Shen We Don’t Know What to Say?

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“And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15).

Being a personal worker is hard. Not only does the personal worker need to be able to present the truth with love, we must also combat error. I’ll admit it, I’ve often taken the “you’re wrong here’s why” approach to evangelism.

 Almost on a daily basis, especially Since I started preaching in Borger, I am told fantastic stories of how folks claim to have been saved. At no point is there ever a “thus saith the Lord” with a bible book, chapter, verse reference.

What do we say after those kinds of tales? It’s too easy to shake your head and close off the conversation because we don’t know how to respond.

I’ve discovered a better way, and I want to share it with you. Instead of running away, I see it as an opportunity to share the true Gospel, (Romans 1:16).

It’s called the “As for me…” principle as found in Joshua 24:15. The Apostle Paul used a similar tactic on Mars Hill. “Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands” (Acts 17:22-24).

Here’s how it works. First, I ASK if I can open up to them about my own salvation. I then tell them how I was SAVED according to the commands of God. I had to Hear the gospel (Matt 7:23-29). I Believe that Jesus is the Christ (John 8:24). I Repented and continue to live a penitent life (Luke 13:3). I have Confessed and continue to Confess Jesus before all (Matt 10:32). I was Baptized in Water, just as the Lord commands to have my sins washed away (Mar 16:16; Acts 2:38), and I strive to be Faithful to the Lord all the days of my life even if doing so causes me hurt (Mat 28:20; Rev 2:10). “I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day” (2Tim 1:12).       

Sometimes there are questions about what I’ve said. I answer by saying, “I’ve FOUND that there are many discrepancies between what people say and what God teaches in His word. This next part is important. I ask if I can show them what I did. Then OPEN an actual printed bible for them to see and read for themselves.

I READ to them, (or let them read) those passages that I saw when I first learned the truth. Sometimes I need a few MARGIN notes to remind me where they are. I let the gospel be the power of God unto salvation and not myself for the converting of the soul. Whenever I’ve relied on my own ability to quote scripture, I’ve been met with resistance. One person said, “Satan quoted scripture too.” That push back was helpful because it revealed to me what people are thinking whenever I have quoted verses (even if accurately). It’s hard for people to argue against the Word. They’ll try, but they’ll fail.

Finally, I have no EXPECTATIONS of them. Certainly, my desire is that they come to the knowledge of the truth and be saved, but that’s God’s work. My job is to scatter the seed on the ground of the heart (see Mark 4:14-20). “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase” (1Cor 3:6).

Agape,

Spencer

Go here For some helps with scripture when sharing the gospel.

Let’s Talk about Jesus #4; His Unspeakable Gift

The Preacher 1 Comment

“Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”

(2Corinthians 9:15).

While we’re talking about Jesus, let’s see if we can talk about this unspeakable gift.

The word here is the idea of indescribable, something we’re often unable to put into words. We are allowed to speak about it, but we’ll find it difficult to fully describe the good gifts of God.

Since most folks are talking about Jesus, let’s talk about Him too. Jesus told a healed man, “Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee” (Mark 5:19). Perhaps, we can do the same?

Maybe we can try to put into words the unspeakable GIFTS of Christ.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning”
 (James 1:17).

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3).

What are a few of the spiritual GIFTS we have from God in Christ?

We have GRACE. “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men” (Titus 2:11; cf Eph 2:8). We need to start here for it is by the GRACE of God in Christ that we have access to salvation. Grace is a gift of God. It is God’s Rescue plan for sinful man. Grace gives us Access to God through Christ. The sacrifice of Christ is the central component of God’s Grace. When we are baptized into Christ we are saved and can Escape the corruption of this life (for by Grace are you saved). Truly Grace is an indescribable gift.

The divinely INSPIRED word is a Gift of God. After James says that every perfect gift comes down from above, he writes this, “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures” (James 1:18). His inspired word is the source of knowledge about salvation in Christ, and is the source for how to live a life that is pleasing to Him. The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy; “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works” (2Tim 3:15-17).

On a personal level, God gives us the Gift of bearing FRUIT. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-25).

He also gives us gifts for our earthly TREASURE for our physical needs as well as for the church, “And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God” (2Corinthians 9:8-11; Mat 7:11).

Not just for our own use, but to share with those in need as the church in Macedonia did for the Saint in Jerusalem, “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints” (2Corinthians 8:1-4).

Lastly but certainly not least, God gives the gift of SALVATION. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). This gift He brings to all those that repent and are baptized (Acts 2:38) will not be removed. “For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance” (won’t take them back) (Romans 11:29).

People often mistake God’s Gifts as automatic & universal salvation, and that He gives physical blessings for all mankind regardless of their beliefs or actions. Not so. God gives the Gift of Access to salvation ONLY through His Son Christ Jesus. There is no other way. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6).

The Gift of Salvation comes to those that obey Him. “And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Hebrews 5:9). Jesus has told us what will be said to the disobedient who call His name at the day of judgment, “And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say” (Luke 6:46)?

It is such a shame that even though we all have access to the Gift of God in Christ many will refuse it. God is full of Grace and Mercy, but one day everyone will stand before the throne of Christ to give an account and He “In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2Thessalonians 1:8).

While we still have breath, we can obey the Gift of the Gospel of Christ and be saved. Then when death comes, we shall hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:21).

Agape,

Spencer

Spencer is an evangelist for the Franklin & Juniper st church of Christ in Borger, Tx.

This is part of a series of articles about reasons to Talk About Jesus.

Let’s talk about CHRIST

The Preacher 1 Comment

As part of a series of lessons about evangelism, part 3 is about Redemption through CHRIST.

Jesus Christ was CRUCIFIED for us.

Jesus Shed HIS own blood.

Jesus was RAISED from the dead.

Jesus is the very IMAGE of the Invisible God.

Jesus is God’s SACRIFICE for us.

Jesus TASTED death for everyone.

Here are some questions for us…

Have we CRUCIFIED the flesh? Gal 5:24

Have we come in contact with HIS BLOOD? Rev 1:5; Matt 26:28; Acts 2:38.

Have we been RAISED to walk in newness of life in Baptism? Rom 6:3-6.

Are we striving to IMITATE Christ in this life? John 13:15.

Are we offering SPIRITUAL SACRIFICES in our own body? Rom 12:1; Heb 13:15-16.

Have we TASTED Death in baptism so that the second death has no power over us? Rom 6:3.

Would you like to study more about how to be Redeemed by the Blood of Christ? Click here for access to self paced studies.