God s Salvation Plan

Transcription

1 God s Salvation Plan Eleazar Flores 2014 Introduction This Bible Study will try to explain the revelation of the name of Jesus Christ, and the Salvation that is brought through that powerful name. God has been merciful unto me and has revealed the mystery of the Godhead for my understanding. I feel that I would not be doing the Lord's will if I kept this revelation to myself. I am not wanting to diminish or take away anything that you may have from God. I had not intended to make this a bible study, but God has really been stirring me to reach out and deliver this message to those that may not have heard it this way before. I realize that some of you are very comfortable in your religious teachings and may not pay any attention to the message that I am trying to convey to you. We may never have the opportunity to sit across the table and study the word of God together. Again, I am not claiming to be anyone special and have many of the same faults and problems that you have. I am not claiming to know it all but what I do have, I want to share with you. Please, at least put aside your pre-conceived ideas and weigh out what I am about to share with you. All scriptures were taken from the King James Version, but feel free to compare to any bible that you have available. I have listed the scriptures and typed them in for your convenience, but please verify them for yourselves. Rightly Dividing the Word Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life. John 5: 39, 40 Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of Truth. 2 Timothy 2: 15 The first four books of the New Testament are referred to as the Gospels and consist of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. These books tell of Jesus Christ's ministry, the miracles, his teachings, his death and resurrection story. Each writer gives his account and has a different method or mindset in the way he conveys his message. Matthew writes primarily to the Jews and presents Jesus as the Messiah promised in the Old Testament. Mark's writings were geared more to the Romans and he portrays Christ in all his power and authority, emphasizing his great deeds. Luke was a Greek and a well - educated man, a physician. He portrays Christ as the perfect man and presents him as the son of man as well as the son of God. John was said to be the youngest of the Apostles and his version supplemented the other three writings. His version dealt with the deepest questions in life and portrays Jesus as the "only begotten of the father". The next Book is called the Book of Acts or The Acts of the Apostles. It is the only book that records the birth of the early Church. It stands alone in this regard and starts off with the Great Commission right before the Lord's ascension into the heavens. The next 21 books are referred to as the Epistles or letters and are either addressed to already established churches or individuals in the church. These letters are not where "The Plan of Salvation" is found in its 1 P a g e

2 entirety. These epistles or letters serve for doctrine, for correction, for reproof and to give us instruction in righteousness. They are meant to keep us walking upright in the faith. Finally, The Book of Revelation. This book stands alone as a book of prophecy and speaks in prophetic details as to the End Time. This is a book that has many symbolic features and is sometimes hard to understand. Many of the events portrayed in this book are beginning to play out if you study the Middle East. I do believe we are living in the last days. The Words of the Apostles All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3: 16 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. 2 Peter 1: 20, 21 I am amazed when I hear someone say, "We'll, I'd rather do what Jesus says than what the Apostles say". This is usually based on The Red Letter Edition that so many of us enjoy in our bibles. The Red Letter is said to be the actual quoted words spoken by Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. But who do you think is quoting HIS words? Jesus never lifted a pen to write anything, but entrusted that task to those whom he had chosen. Pay attention to this next passage of scripture and see if maybe we should reconsider trusting those apostles chosen by The Lord. In the book of John, chaper 1, verse 1, it says, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. Then in verse 14 we find, And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. In John 17:17-21, the son of God is praying to the eternal spirit (Father) and says, Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou has sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word"; Did you notice that Jesus is praying a prayer for you and me today? He said he was not praying only for the apostles, but for all who would ever believe on him (that s you and me) through their word. (That s the apostles word) Look at these verses: Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God"; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone". Ephesians 2: 19, 20 For whosoever shall call on the name of The Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him on 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? And how shall they preach except they be sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! Romans 10: Remember that the apostles were the first preachers chosen by The Lord. He sent them out into the world to preach the gospel. How can we then say that we would rather believe The Lord Jesus than those apostles that were sent? The Lord is very meticulous and carefully put out a plan. If you study the 2 P a g e

3 Tabernacle plan in the Old Testament or even the building of Noah's Ark, God was very specific in his instructions to those men. Why then, when it comes to his church, would he be any less diligent in his instructions? The fact that he shed his precious blood should tell us something. The Preaching of the Gospel For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. 1 Corinthians 1: In The Great Commission, Jesus says, "Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Notice that the name is used in the Singular. What is that name? I'll get back to that a little later in this study. Please note that Matthew was not the only one to record the words of Christ in what is referred to as the Great Commission. In Luke 24:47 we read; "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem". Many denominations like to quote Romans 10:9 as the basis to salvation. I reads, "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth The Lord Jesus and shalt believe in thine heart that God raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved". This is not a false statement in itself but can be taken out of context. Remember that the Book of Romans is written to a group of believers that have come through the Book of Acts experience. They have received their wings, so to speak, and are born again believers. Read chapter 1 of any of the Epistles and you will see that these are letter written to a group of church members (saints) or to a fellow servant of Christ. I like to use this example when I teach bible studies. When I was in the Fire Department there was certain terminology that we used, as many of you do on your jobs, which only members of your group could comprehend. This group of believers knew the meaning of "believe in The Lord" or what it meant "to call upon his name". Let s look and see if there may be more than just believing or acknowledging in something or someone. Is there action needed to back up what we believe? James 2:14 says it this way, "What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him"? It goes on to state in verse 17 "Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. The New Birth Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. John 3: P a g e

4 Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews came to Jesus by night and spoke with him. He commented as to how Jesus must be of God because no man could do these miracles except God be with him. Jesus quickly dismissed this compliment and focused on the reason he was really here to let people know about the new birth experience. Now Nicodemus was not an ignorant man, but he could not comprehend what The Lord was trying to say to him. Notice once again the answer that Jesus gave, " Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God". Some would argue that Jesus was not speaking of water baptism when he mentioned being born of water and of the spirit. They claim that he was speaking of a natural birth as coming from their mother s womb. I would then ask the question, Why would Jesus even bring up the topic of a natural birth? If you were not born in the natural, would you even be here having this discussion? Jesus tied being born again with a birth of water and Spirit. Some believe that he was speaking of being born of water (baptism), and of the Spirit (Holy Ghost). Why don't we see what the scriptures have to say about it? Some would say that all you have to do is simply believe to be saved. Let's look at some scriptures that are in Red Letters. Jesus seems to be adding baptism into the equation of believing. The Birth of Water Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Mark 16: Just a point of interest, Jesus said "He that believeth AND is baptized shall be saved". He did not say, He that believeth ONLY is saved, and then can get baptized later if they'd like to. Could that be what he meant when he told Nicodemus, "except a man be born of water"? When Jesus himself was came to be baptized, John the Baptist John the Baptist questioned Him about it: I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me"? Jesus answered him and said, "Suffer it to be so now; for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness". Matthew 3: 14, 15 Then John baptized him by immersion into the water. Wow, even Jesus was baptized! We have to at least be honest a take a closer look. We find in the first letter of Peter something very interesting. Peter was referring to the time when Noah had been warned by The Lord of an impending flood that was to come because of the wickedness of mankind. If you read Genesis chapter 6, you will also see the plan for the construction of the ark. Noah was instructed in what type of wood to use, the dimensions, where to place the window and door, plus how many stories it would be comprised of. Like I said earlier, The Lord is very meticulous in His planning. Look at 1 Peter 3: 20 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. 4 P a g e

5 Wow, that really blew my mind. In my human way of thinking, I ve always focused on how many people were destroyed by the flood waters. Peter talks about, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. Then he goes on in verse 21 to say this, 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: That seems to be in line with the answer Jesus gave to John the Baptist concerning fulfilling all righteousness at His baptism. I'm not trying to be antagonistic in any way but I do want to stir your thinking. I don't want to hold anything back from you that could make a difference in whether or not you are saved. The bible declares in Second Peter chapter 1 verse 10, Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: The Birth of The Spirit In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that Believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. John 7: Jesus is doing the speaking here. He is saying that if you believe on him as the scriptures teach, something will take place. He said that out of your belly, or in other words - your inner most being, rivers of living water would flow from you. What is he referring to? In verse 39, John explains it this way, "(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the HOLY GHOST was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified". (Born of the Spirit) Please consider these next few scriptures: In the gospel of John, chapter 14, beginning with verses 16 through 18, it reads like this: And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Then in verse 26, Jesus reveals who this comforter is: But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Then in John chapter 16, verse 7 He says this: Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. Whew, did you gather all that? What is the definition of a ghost? According to Merriam-Webster, a ghost is: a disembodied soul: especially; the soul of a dead person believed to be an inhabitant of the unseen world or to appear to the living in bodily likeness. 5 P a g e

6 Or in other words, the spirit of a departed one! In Luke 23: 46 it reads, And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost. Let me give it to you in a nutshell. Jesus said that if you believe on Him as the scripture has said, you would receive these rivers of living water, the Holy Ghost. He told them that the Father would send the comforter in His name, but this could not happen as long as Jesus was still on earth. He had to ascend into the heavens to be glorified before this could happen. Jesus explains to His disciples that the world could not receive this Spirit of Truth, neither did they know Him, but He tells them, but you know him for he dwelleth (or is living) with you and shall be in you. Then He sums it up by saying, I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Then in John 16: 7, He tells them that He has to go away or else this Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, will not come to them. Then He says, but if I depart, I will send him to you. Please open up your hearts and let The Lord reveal Himself unto you. This Holy Ghost is not a separate person, but rather the Spirit of the Almighty God (the Father) that was in Christ (the Son) reconciling the world unto Himself (2 Corinthians 5: 19). The Holy Ghost was promised to you and to your children and to all who are afar off even as many as the Lord our God shall call (Acts 2: 39). My dear friend or family member, is it possible that you might be missing something in your new birth experience? It seems to me that what Jesus was relaying to Nicodemus when he said you must be born of WATER and of the SPIRIT could be taking on a real meaning. Lets take a look at the ONLY book in which the new birth is recorded. In the book of Acts we will see what message is being preached to the lost souls of their time. The Bible records in Acts 1: 3, that he showed himself alive after his passion (His crucifixion and resurrection) by many infallible proofs, being seen of them for forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God. Luke records it this way: "Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures". Luke 24: 45 The Original Church And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Matthew 16: 18 A very large crowd had gathered from every nation under heaven in Jerusalem for the Feast of Pentecost. Remember that Christ was with them for forty days after his death. He wanted to be certain that they had it all squared away. The big day was coming! I said earlier, God is very meticulous and wasn't about to sit back and let these guys blow it. After all, he shed his holy blood for his church. Would he leave anything to chance? In the book of Matthew 16: 13-19, Jesus asked the question, "of who do men say that I am"? It was Peter that had the correct answer and said "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God". Jesus looks him square in the eye and said, "Blessed art thou Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood has not revealed it unto thee, but my father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and 6 P a g e

7 upon this rock will I build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it". Notice that he says "I WILL build my church". It had not been built yet! Then he says in verse 19 while still addressing Peter, " And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven". It is no wonder that after the Holy Ghost fell on all that were in the upper room in Jerusalem, where Christ had told them to wait for the promise of the Father, it was Peter who preached the first sermon. Those that were gathered there for the feast inquired as to what was happening, since they could hear all these people (about 120, including Mary, the mother of Jesus) speaking in their native tongues and magnifying the great works of God. Peter standing up with the eleven other apostles, (that would include Matthew and John), begins to deliver a scorching message that convicts those gathered there. A side note: Please read chapter 1 of the book of Acts, verses 13 15, and you will see that not only were Matthew and John there, but so was Mary, the mother of Jesus. The reason I point this out is that so many denominations hold onto Matthew 28:19 and John 3: 16 as the core of their beliefs. In the second chapter of the books of Acts, verses 3 4, the bible declares that they were all in one accord and one place, (that means they were all in agreement and in one mindset). The Holy Ghost fell on each of them as they began to speak with other tongues and magnify God. This also included the women, and even Mary, the mother of Jesus! After Peter delivers his sermon, they come to the realization that they crucified the Messiah. They then ask Peter and the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? That was the Million Dollar question In Acts chapter 2, verses 38-39, Peter unlocks the door to salvation for the first time. This is what his answer was: "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as The Lord our God shall call". In Acts 2:41, 42 the word of God says, "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about 3000 souls". And they continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers". In Acts 2:47 it says, "Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And THE LORD added to the church daily such as should be SAVED". I think it is safe to say that if the Lord adds you to the church, you are saved. What was it that took these people from a state of being unsaved to a state of being saved? I believe the only obvious answer is that they obeyed Acts 2: 38 and continued in the teaching of the apostles. After Peter unlocked the door (Acts 2: 38), the scriptures teach that they that gladly received his word were baptized and there were about 3000 souls added to the church that day. Please note: No one in your bible ever repeated The Sinner s Prayer or Accepted the Lord as their personal Savior. These doctrines were created from scriptures taken out of context and formed into a salvation plan. Although acknowledging The Lord and realizing your need for a Savior is a great first step, will that be enough? Like I said earlier, I am not wanting to take away anything from your experience with God, as accepting The Lord and the Sinner s prayer can lead to that first step, repentance. 7 P a g e

8 One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. Ephesians 4: 4-6 Here are some questions to ponder: After The Lord invested his all into the Apostles, could Peter be mistaken as some might suggest? Think about it, the Bible says "that he opened up their understanding that they might understand the scriptures". The Bible also declares that he spent forty days with his Apostles after his passion and spoke to them about the things pertaining to the kingdom of God. The Lord prayed that we would believe on him through the word of the Apostles and he handed the keys to the preacher, Peter. How can we then say that Peter was wrong? To suggest this would be an insult to The Lord and all he came to die for. Could it be that we are the ones that are mistaken? Maybe we need to open up our understanding that we might see this glorious truth. Who are we, that we should know more than these chosen men of the Lord? When was the last time we spent forty days speaking with The Lord about the kingdom of heaven? The Bible teaches in Ephesians 4: 5,6 that there is ONE LORD, ONE FAITH, ONE BAPTISM. One GOD and FATHER of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all". Before you start thinking that the One Lord and One God shows two separate persons, let's look at a few verses of scripture. When "Doubting Thomas" sees the nail - scarred hands and pierced side of Jesus he utters these words: MY LORD AND MY GOD". John 20:28 In Acts 2:39 Peter says, "For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as The LORD OUR GOD shall call". And finally, the very first commandment to Israel couldn't be any clearer. "Hear O Israel: The LORD OUR GOD IS ONE LORD". Deuteronomy 6:4 Many churches today are preaching the existence of a Trinity. I looked up the definition of The Trinity. It states, "the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as three persons in one Godhead" according to Christian dogma. Or as it has also been described, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost. Neither God the Son nor God Holy Ghost are found in the Holy Scriptures. In fact neither is the word, TRINITY. The bible teaches quite the opposite: "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ". For in him dwelleth ALL THE FULLNESS OF THE GODHEAD BODILY. And you are COMPLETE IN HIM, which is the head of all principality and power" - Colossians 2:8-10 The doctrine of the Trinity also teaches that the three persons in the Godhead are co-eternal, co-equal, and co-existent. However, the bible never makes that claim. Let s take a look at some scriptures: "Tell ye, and bring them near, yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? who hath told it from that time? have not I The Lord? and there is no God else beside me; a just God and a saviour, there is none beside me" "Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the Earth: for I am God, and there is none else. I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear". - Isaiah 45: P a g e

9 That sounds a lot like what was said about Jesus: "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father". - Philippians 2:10,11 Who is the Creator of all things? Let me share the following scriptures with you: Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and THERE IS NONE LIKE ME, (none equal) - Isaiah 46: 9 "Thus saith The Lord, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from thy womb, I am The Lord that maketh all things; that stretcheth for the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself"; - Isaiah 44:24 The bible declares this of Jesus Christ: "He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not". John 1: 10 The terms Lord and God are synonymous, meaning the same. "The Lord, He is God". Consider the following scripture in Psalms: Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100: 3 After spending about three years in his ministry, and forty days after his passion, while he opened up their understanding, they knew the Singular Name of the Titles, Father, Son and Holy Ghost was JESUS! He was the Father in creation, the Son in redemption and the Holy Ghost in regeneration. Not three separate persons but rather three manifestations of the One True God. Isaiah the prophet proclaimed Jesus in this way: For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9: 6 Think about it. How is this child that we know as Jesus called The Mighty God, (if there is only One God) and the everlasting Father? How can there be two Mighty God s or two Everlasting Fathers? In the book of Matthew, chapter 1, verse 23, he quotes the prophet Isaiah: 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. So let me try to explain it like this: In Red Letters, John 4: 24: God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. Ephesians 4: 4 says, There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; That same Spirit that moved across the face of the waters in Genesis 1: 2 and spoke the world into existence, proclaimed in His Word in Leviticus 17:11, For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have 9 P a g e

10 given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. In Hebrews 9: 22, we find this passage of scripture, And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. The ONE SPIRIT had no blood to shed, therefore He had to create a perfect sacrifice. In the gospel of John 1: 1 we find, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the WORD was God. In John 1: 14 we find this, And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Hebrews 2: 9 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. The Word of God declares that this same God was in Christ for the express purpose of bringing back what had been lost through sin. Look at the next verse: 2 Corinthians 5: 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Colossians 1: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; The Word, who was God, created this body whom we know as Jesus, for the sole purpose of the suffering of death by the shedding of His own blood. He was The Father when He created the world and all things around Him. He then robed Himself in flesh, known as the Son for the purpose of dying on the cross to shed His blood, and now He has returned to live within man. Remember that there is only one Spirit. Ephesians 4: 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; Then He said in the gospel of John 14: 17 (red letters), Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. John 16: 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 10 P a g e

11 He said in John 14: 26, But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. John 14: 18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Romans 8: 9 11 sums it up this way, 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. 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 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. Jesus Name Baptism affirms the One God message "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a NAME which is ABOVE every name: That at the NAME of JESUS every knee shall bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. - Philippians 2:9-11 "And WHATSOEVER you do in WORD or DEED, do all in the name of The Lord JESUS, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. - Colossians 3:17 (Water baptism consists of both word and deed or action) "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is NONE other NAME under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved". - Acts 4:12 Many churches use the Name of Jesus Christ to cast out devils. They pray for the sick in Jesus name, they pray for healing in Jesus name, and do many wonderful works in the name of Jesus Christ. But when it comes to water baptism, they refuse to take on the name of Jesus Christ. Please take the time to reevaluate this very important topic. We will take a look at the Book of Acts. Let me say this, there is No Record of anyone ever being baptized in the early church using the titles: Father, Son and Holy Ghost; but rather they were all baptized in the name of The Lord Jesus. Look at Acts Chapter 8: In Acts 8, verses 14 17, Phillip was preaching the word in Samaria. Peter and John are sent there to help Him with the revival. This is what happened: "Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of The Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost". - Acts 8:15-17 (Could this be the water and Spirit birth that was spoken by Jesus?) In Acts Chapter 10, Peter was preaching to the Gentiles. The Holy Ghost fell on them that heard the word. Look at what Peter told them next: "Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of The Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days". Acts 10: 47, 48 (Water and Spirit birth) 11 P a g e

12 In fact, the Apostle Paul felt so strongly about this message that when he wrote to the church that was in Galatia, he at first exchanges pleasantries with them. Then he begins his reproach in Galatians 1: 6 12 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 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. (Just in case they didn t get it the first time, he says it again) 9 As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. 10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. 11 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. Let s take a look and see if Paul practiced what he preached. By the way, Paul was one apostle that was not present on the day of Pentecost. As a matter of fact, he was known as Saul of Tarsus and was busy persecuting this early Christian church. He had authority from the chief priests to bind and even put these early Christians to death. I will not get into all the lengthy details of his powerful conversion, but needless to say, he got the message. In the book of Acts, chapter 9, verses 17-18, Saul, (later called Paul) is filled with the Holy Ghost and was baptized. Later, Paul testifies about his baptism and recalls the instructions that were given to him by Ananias: And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Acts 22: 16 So if Paul was also baptized in the name of The Lord and received the Holy Ghost, then what was the message he was preaching? In Acts 19 Paul comes across certain disciples while in Ephesus. He asks them a straightforward question, "Have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed"? When they answered that they had not heard whether there be any Holy Ghost, he immediately checked their credentials. He asked them how they had been baptized. They answered, unto John's baptism. Paul explains that John's baptism was for repentance and saying that they should believe on him which should come after him, which is Christ Jesus. (See Acts 19: 1 4) Look at what happened next: "When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of The Lord Jesus. And when Paul laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues and prophesied". - Acts 19: 5, 6 (Water and Spirit birth) Let me remind you one more time what Peter preached as the saving message on the day of Pentecost: "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. - Acts 2:38 I have a couple of questions that I want you to think about: 1. Have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed? 2. If not, Unto what then were you baptized? In Matthew chapter 7, verses 21 23, Jesus gives us this insight: Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. 12 P a g e

13 Could The Lord be revealing something to us in this passage? If you notice, these individuals are declaring unto The Lord that they have performed many wonderful works in his name, yet He did not know them. These individuals sound like church going folks to me, yet for some reason they are not known unto Him. Consider this please: In a traditional marriage, the bride takes on the name of the bridegroom. In Matthew, chapter 25, Jesus teaches a parable concerning the ten virgins and speaks of the coming of the bridegroom. This symbolizes the return of Jesus Christ for His church. The parable speaks of those virgins that were wise and ready to meet Him, but also speaks of the foolish who did not have the oil in their lamps. In Ephesians, chapter 5, verses 25 27, Paul speaks of husbands loving their wives even as Christ loved the church. Then in verses 31 and 32 he says: For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. 32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. In the book of Revelation, chapter 19, verse 7, Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. (This speaks of the church being the bride of Christ) In Galatians 3: 27, Paul writes, For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Could it be what they were lacking in Matthew chapter 7 was the Name, the Name of Jesus Christ in water baptism? They did many wonderful works such as prophesying in His name and casting out devils in His name. Many wonderful works were done in His name, but if you notice, they do not proclaim that they were ever baptized in His name! They did everything else in the name of Jesus, except be baptized by that name. If your church is teaching any other form of baptism other than by immersion in the name of Jesus, let me ask you this: Why is that? The Official Seal of Approval The Lord brought this passage to my attention, and I have to reemphasize it to you once again: This Book of Acts Church is the oldest, even before The Catholic Church. I am not attempting to offend anyone but merely stating a fact. Please check the facts for yourself. This Book of Acts Church began in Jerusalem in 33 AD in an upper room. The Catholic Church began in 325 AD in Rome at the Council of Nicaea. The Book of Acts Church is not a Protestant Church, but is the original Church. Many have tried to discount this early church and have been trying to destroy or discredit it by calling it a cult or just a group of heretics for the message that is preached. This has been going on for many centuries now. Modern day "Pharisees", with doctorates in theology, have tried to explain it away as too dogmatic, and have watered down the message. But know this, it holds to the truths that were preached from the beginning of the church in the book of Acts. Every Christian denomination claims to have its roots in the first church. The Catholic Church goes as far as proclaiming Peter to be their first Pope, but few dare to preach the same message Peter preached at Pentecost. The Bible, in 2 Timothy 3: 1 7, prophesies concerning the last days and perilous times that are to come. In verse 5, it states, Having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof: from such turn 13 P a g e

14 away., Verse 7 says, "Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth". In other words, religious people with so much knowledge that they can't see the simple truth of the powerful gospel of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 1:19 this is what The Lord thinks of all our doctorates and degrees that are contrary to his message, "For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent". In fact, the religious sects of His time had no idea how to handle this man Jesus! Look at these passages of scripture concerning Him: "There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings. And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad (insane); why hear ye him? - John chapter 10:19-20 "Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan and hast a devil? Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honor my Father, and ye do dishonour me". - John 8:48-49 "I and my Father are one. Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me"? The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself GOD. - John 10:30-33 What do you do with a man like that? What do you do with a church that dares to hold on to the Original Doctrine of the Apostles with Jesus Christ himself being the Chief Cornerstone? Now I know why The Lord has stirred me to make sure and include that this early church had his Official Seal of Approval! Call it what you want and try to explain it away, but possibly at your own demise. As for me and my house, I will stand fast with what Jude says in his writings: Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. Jude 1: 3 The book of Acts Church has The Seal of Approval from The Lord Jesus Christ himself. In Acts Chapter 2 verse 47, after that the Holy Ghost had fallen on the believers and about three thousand souls were added unto them, it states: "Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved". THE LORD ADDED TO THE CHURCH DAILY such as should be saved. How were they saved? By gladly receiving the message preached to them that day. The Lord added to the Church - not the apostles or anyone else. This Church was started not by the will of man, but by the Will of God! 14 P a g e

15 A Personal Message Friends and family, I love you all and have tried to share what I believe to be the greatest act of love that God has ever given to mankind. I have given you a very precise look at what the early church taught and preached. If the church you attend is not preaching this Acts 2:38 message, you have to ask yourself: WHY NOT? I did not set out to write a bible study, my intentions were to write a letter to my friends and family. Then God began to fill me with even more boldness. I do not mean to upset or offend anyone. I am in no way trying to judge any of you as I fear the wrath of God upon my own soul. I hope and pray that instead of becoming upset with me, that you would just take the time to reevaluate your personal walk with The Lord Jesus. If I have offended anyone, please forgive me, but know that I'm doing it out of love for all of you. I would rather risk losing you as a friend than to hold anything back from you. Please give it careful consideration, and if you do not see any need to change course, then accept your decision and move on, knowing that I have delivered my heart to you. I will still love you and hope you will still love me. I am making myself available to anyone who wants to know more of what I have spoken to you about. I hope to hear from you whether or not you agree with me and I pray that the gospel of Jesus Christ will take on a new meaning for you. Love you in Christ Jesus, Eleazar Flores epflo76@yahoo.com 15 P a g e