What More Are You Doing Than Others?

Mt 5:43-47

What a sobering question.  Jesus asked, "What more are you doing than others" while He was teaching a lesson on the high standard of loving our enemies.  He used the practical workings of the Law of Moses when He said, "eye for an eye..." Mt 5:38 In contrast to that He said, "love your enemies..." Mt 5:44  Wow, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.  That makes the question He asked even more sobering!  Remember, Jesus exemplified this teaching when He was on the cross. Lk 23:34  We must follow Jesus and imitate Him.  What should we do more than others, love our enemies and pray for those who persecute you.  This is essential to show our resemblance of our Father who gives to the righteous and unrighteous. Mt 5:45

Some say and think this is impossible for a human to accomplish.  It may be extremely hard, but not impossible.  Jesus makes it possible.  He does so by not just saying it, but by living it.  Paul says a similar thing when he writes the Romans and is instructing them to behave like Christians. Rom 12:17-21

In verse 46, Jesus said that even tax collectors love the ones who love them.  These tax collectors were commonly known for theft.  If a thief can love those who love them what praise is found in this kind of love?  NONE!  Listen to me now, a Christian should have a love that distinguishes them from sinners! Lk 6:32,33  Jesus asked, "What more are you doing than others?"  The answer He is looking for is,  "Loving others like the example you gave, my Lord."  Instead, we are trying to love others, like sinners.  A Christians love should distinguish them from sinners.   I once read about a father teaching his son about being a gentleman and said, "My son, speak kindly to everyone, even those who do not speak kindly to you.  You must remember to show courtesy to others not because they are gentlemen, but because you are one."   Jesus wants us to love, do good for, and lend to our enemies while expecting nothing in return. Lk 6:35  We must love our enemies not because of who they are, but because of who we are, Christians.

This question Jesus asked teaches that Christianity is of little value if it doesn't make us better than those in the world.  At their baptism, a Christian is raised up to walk in the newness of life (Rom 6:3,4) not the oldness of life.  At their baptism, a Christian has buried their old self and put on a new self. Col 3:7-10  This newness of life and new self is harder than memorizing book, chapter, and verse of God's Word.  It is hard to do!  The Pharisees were Law abiding men.  They tithed down to the mustard seed.  All of this wasn't sufficient.  Jesus said, our righteousness must surpass that of the Pharisees. Mt 5:20  If we memorize the entire Bible and give all we got at tithe and offering time but fail to love our enemies we are no different than the world.  

Jesus asked, "what more are you doing than others?"  Jesus is our standard not other people or denominations.  It's a shame that Jehovah's Witnesses circulate literature filled with error, we should circulate more to preach the truth.  If a Mormon can give ten percent to support error, we should give more to support the truth.  If a denomination can meet to worship in error for three hours, we should meet to worship for four hours in truth.  I know, now I have gotten personal.  Jesus asked, "What more are you doing than others?"  

Don't be caught up in the trap of being average!  Most people are satisfied when they have accomplished what is considered average.  Jesus didn't call us to be average!  The average was "eye for an eye" but Jesus demands more.  He demands love and not to resist an person who is evil. Mt 5:39  The average was "thou shall not kill"  but Jesus demands more.   He demands us to love our brothers. 1Jn 3:15; 4:20  The average says that "one faith is as good as another" but Jesus says worship can be in vain. Mt 15:9  One more, the average is "drink but don't get drunk" but God's Word says abstain forms of evil. 1Th 5:22  These examples vividly show that Jesus demands that we excel beyond average.  We were not called to be average.  We were called to be Christians!  We are called to follow Jesus' example even in suffering. 1Pe 2:21  Jesus leads us to the Father.  Jesus leads us home. Jn 14:6  

Jesus asked, "What more are you doing than others?"  May we never measure what we are doing to anyone other than Jesus.  Today, are we willing to love and pray for our enemies?  Are we willing to answer the call to go beyond average?  Are we ready to be a Christian?  Are we ready to follow Jesus?

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

We must hear the Word of God:  Rom 10:17; Acts 4:4

We must believe or have faith:   Heb 11:6; Acts 16:31

We must repent of our sins:  Lk 13:3; Acts 17:30

We must confess Christ before others:  Mt 10:32; Acts 8:37

We must be immersed into Christ (baptized) Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38

We must be faithful:   Rev 2:10; Acts 14:22   

I'm not a "Water Dog", I'm trying to be an "Obedient Dog."

Many people receive nicknames because of something they often did, or do, and thus earn a nickname.  You may have a nickname that was earned that has stuck with you for a very long time.  My mother was never really known for her birth name.  If I told someone I was Roberta's son they had no clue who I was talking about, but if I said I was Binky's son they knew exactly who I was talking about.  I always wanted the nickname "cutie" but that never stuck, and I think I know why.  However, the nickname "chatterbox" did stick for awhile and again, I think I know why.

I am a member of the Lord's Church.  I was added to the Christ's Church several years ago.  One of the many nicknames I have been called since then is "water dog."  Yet, you never hear anyone mention the obedience involved in that statement.  Consider some of the Old Testament and New Testament examples.

NAAMAN THE LEPER   2Ki 5:1-14

We read that Naaman was "captain of the army, highly respected, and a leper."    A young Israelite girl was taken captive and served Naaman's wife.  I want you to notice even though this young girl was was a prisoner of war in a foreign land she was not bitter towards her captors.  As a matter of fact, she was concerned about their welfare.  What a lesson we can learn from that young girl! Isa 11:6  I do not know her exact age but it is abundantly evident that she was taught about God and His prophet.  She was not afraid to tell strangers about them.  The Jews were diligent to teach their children the Law of God. Dt 6:1-8  Oh 21st century church, when we will we learn this lesson?  When we stop allowing the world to teach our children what defines marriage, murder, and morals?  Things will not change until we change that!  

Don't loose sight of the fact that, as often is the case, a correct report was not made in these verses.  The young Israelite servant told Naaman's wife, she told Naaman, and Naaman told his master that a prophet in Israel could cure Naaman.  The king of Israel received a letter that said, "you may cure him of his leprosy."  This was severely wrong.  We often credit man with the abilities that only God can provide.  Man cannot save you, only God can.  Man will fail you, God will not.  Man will break promises, God will not.  Confusion concerning God and His Word, in this instance, almost started a fight.  It is that very thing, confusion concerning God and His Word, that starts denominationalism today!  

So Elisha sets things straight and requests that Naaman be sent to him so the king of Aram would know that a prophet of God was in Israel.  Naaman was told, by a messenger sent be Elisha, to "go and wash" but this made Naaman furious.  He went away mad, still a leper, because he wasn't being healed the way he wanted.  He wanted the prophet to come to him, wave a magic wand, and say something special. Today we want the preacher to lead us in a special prayer and be saved the way we want.  Naaman said, "Are not Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?"  He wanted "Holy Water" to make him clean.  He wanted to be dabbed instead of immersed.  He wanted it  to be poured over him without entering the water.  He wanted to be healed and saved his own way but it doesn't work that way, my friends!  Listen to me, he was unable to see any connection between the act commanded and the result of obedience to the command that would be attained!  He knew there was no cleansing power in the water of the dirty Jordan river, and he was right!  The power that heals was what was behind the water, and that power is God.  The power of our baptism today is not in the water, but what is behind the water, and that is the likeness of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.  How many people have their own idea as to how God should save them today?  Many are willing and waiting to be saved as soon as God adopts their method of saving.  Surely, no one thinks the dirty water of the Jordan healed Naaman.  If so, the Jordan would have people of all kinds of diseases in it 24 hours a day!  No, God healed Naaman, but not until he completely obeyed, regardless if he saw the full purpose of immersion into that water! 

I am not crying, "water salvation" by any means.  I am crying, "obedient salvation."  Jesus commanded baptism.  Mt 28:18-19; Mk 16:16  Like Naaman, you may not be able to see how baptism can have any connection with salvation, but if you truly desire salvation, you will obey Jesus' command, trust in God's promise, and rejoice in being immersed.  Take note that Peter says repentance must precede baptism. Acts 2:37-38  Philip says belief must precede baptism. Acts 8:35-38  Luke writes that faithfulness, even in struggles, must follow baptism. Acts 14:21-22

JESUS AND THE BLIND MAN   John 9

This is a man who was born blind.  Jesus spat on the ground, made clay by combining  the two, and applied it to the blind man's eyes.  He the said, "Go and wash in the pool of Siloam."  There is no doubt that this is an almost unheard of procedure.  I am glad because I don't want you making clay with your spit and smearing it on my face!  As far as I can tell, Jesus didn't indicate what the result would be when the blind man washed the clay off his eyes.   Jesus didn't say if anything would even happen.  He simply gave the commands "go" and "wash."  If Jesus did give him a promise it is unrecorded, but all we know is that the blind man had a spirit of obedience!  The blind man obeyed and came back seeing.  I am not crying "water salvation" or "spit and dirt salvation."  I am crying "obedient salvation."  Notice how the man explained what happened, "He applied clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see."  The Pharisees never for even a second thought the clay or water did the healing. The man who was born blind knew the clay and the water did not do the healing.  The man said, "He opened my eyes."  

Jesus says "...he that believes and is baptized shall be saved..."  Every who knows as much as the Pharisees and the blind man knows that the saving agent is not the water but the power comes from the power and authority behind the one giving the commands "go" and "wash."  

We show our confidence in our doctor be following his directions, even if we don't understand how the treatment will work.  Jesus is our physician. Mt 9:10-12

We show our confidence in Him when we follow His directions to heal us from sin, even if we don't understand how the treatment will work.  When we decide to set aside some of His directions as "unnecessary" and only follow those that we choose we show more confidence in ourselves than is our physician, Jesus the Christ.  We are trying to take our healing in our own hands.  A person shows confidence in his leader by his unquestioning obedience.  God requires whole hearted compliance with His will. Heb 5:8-9   No one questions that Jesus is the author of salvation.  The previous verses show that salvation is offered to those who are obedient.  You may ask, "Who are the obedient?"  Those who do God's will! Mt 7:21; 12:50   

Today, are you ready to be obedient to God's will, even if you do not see the connection of the command to the promise?  Are you ready to obey even if you don't know that a promise is attached to the command?  Are you ready to be an obedient disciple? 

How The Blood Of Christ Saves

I often like to make comparisons.  Personally, I learn easier when I can compare A to B.  Then it seems to make things easier to comprehend.  I truly believe Satan's focused attack is on the blood of Christ today.  I want to make a comparison to show how the blood of Christ and baptism are related.  

It actually all starts with Christ's death.  Christ shed or poured out His blood in His death. Lk 22:20  We are commanded to be baptized (Mt 28:19,20) into His death. Rom 6:3   The baptism into Christ's death is by immersion only.  Have you ever sprinkled dirt on a person at a funeral and called them buried?  Have you ever rubbed dirt on their head and called them buried?  NO!  You call them buried when they are completely covered with dirt.  Thus, we must be completely covered by water in our baptism into Christ's death.  The close connection between baptism and the blood of Christ has begun. Let us compare A to B, or A (the blood of Christ) to B (baptism).  

      A                                         What we Receive                                    B

Mt 26:28                   New Covenant/Added to the Church           Acts 2:37-47

1Jn 1:7                                             Cleansed                                 Heb 10:19-22

Eph 1:7                                      Remission of Sin                               Acts 2:38

Rev 1:5 KJV                            Sins Washed Away                           Acts 22:16

Heb 9:13,14                            Conscience Cleansed                           1Pe 3:21

Heb 13:12                                     Sanctification                                Rom 6:3,4

The true Christian walks in the light with Christ and the blood of Christ continually cleanses them.  Now, there is nothing automatic about this.  It takes work to walk in the light of Christ.  We can't claim to be baptized into His death and washed by His blood and not walk in His light.  We must be seeking a "way of escape" from temptations. (1Co 10:13)  When we do stumble into sin after being blood bought and washed, we merely have to confess our sin and ask for forgiveness. (1Jn 1:9) Walking in the light of Christ, being blood washed, confessing our sins, and asking for forgiveness is how we know we are redeemed by the precious blood of Christ. (1Pe 1:18,19) 

Bible baptisms have always been done this way in the New Testament.  Baptism must be preceded by faith in Christ and repentance from all sin.  This should help everyone see that baptism is definitely linked to the blood of Christ.  

Satan does not want people coming into contact with the saving blood of Christ.  That is why he has created the fierce opposition to baptism into Christ's death for the remission of sin.  DO YOU OPPOSE?

We are no doubt saved by the gift of grace given by God. (Eph 2:8)  That grace comes through faith.  We are not claiming this as a work that we should boast reception of grace rather, by obedience, we are working to be His workmanship.  That is how God had prepared for us to walk. (Eph 2:8-10)  Baptism into Christ's death for the remission of sin is walking in the light of Christ that God had prepared for us to walk in that way.  Baptism and an obedient lifestyle proves us to be His workmanship, NOT EARNS OUR SALVATION!

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

We must hear the Word of God:  Rom 10:17; Acts 4:4

We must believe or have faith:   Heb 11:6; Acts 16:31

We must repent of our sins:  Lk 13:3; Acts 17:30

We must confess Christ before others:  Mt 10:32; Acts 8:37

We must be immersed into Christ (baptized) Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38

We must be faithful:   Rev 2:10; Acts 14:22   

Now You're Ready

2Ti 3:10-17

Parents have a way of making sure their children are properly equipped to handle the ups and downs of life.  I am reminded of the movie "A Christmas Story" and how Mrs. Parker dresses her youngest Randy for school.  She just may have over done it a little but that boy would not be cold on his way to school.  God doesn't leave us in the cold either.  He didn't just send His son to redeem mankind from their sins.  He followed that up with sending a helper. Jn 14:16,17  I always say God reveals himself in at least three ways.  His power in nature. Rom 1:20 His person in Jesus Christ. Jn 3:16  His purpose in the written Word. 1Ti 2:3,4  His written Word also prepares us to face the world as well.  Consider the main scripture above.

These verses start out with a list of ten things that Young Timothy can relate to.  I read somewhere that one commentator said this was like a checklist for Timothy to reflect on.  I don't know about that stuff but I do believe this part of the Word of God is aimed at strengthening the young Evangelist.  It is made to inspire Timothy in vv 10-14, then it is to instruct him vv15-17.  You could even say it is to soberize (is that a word?  IT IS NOW!) him of a coming judgment in vv 4:1-5.  

Some people may struggle to find the ten things listed, did you?  There are the seven in verse 10 that are to display an active obedience.  The next two are a result of that active obedience.  The Word of God in no way tries to hide that Christians will have sufferings and persecutions.  Many try to sugar coat  this aspect, but the apostle Paul ever did that.  The last one is a great comfort.  If  an obedient and active faith brings struggles and persecutions why would anyone desire that?  The answer in verse 11, because God will rescue us just as He did the apostle Paul!

Verse 12 tells us if our lives are absent of persecution we are obviously NOT living that godly life that the Paul is talking about.  I always say if you are not having any type of persecution in your Christian walk you are not doing it right!!  Remember, persecution and sufferings are not the goal, they are a result and God will rescue us from them in His way!  B.W. Johnson said that persecution is inseparable from Christianity.  Maybe if the Church didn't look so much like the world it would have more persecution?  The Church in the 21st century wants their cake and to be able to eat it too.  We are ignorant of the idea of "through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God." Acts 14:22  I am in now way saying we are to be looking for persecution, but it must be expected Mt 10:22   Jesus knew this would be too much for some people.  He said if the persecution and suffering is to much for you, you are not worthy of him. Mt 10:38,39

In verse 13 Paul warns Timothy of false teachers that will arise and go from bad to worse.  In my mind this is a result of the desire to not experience persecution and sufferings.  People will often take the way of the least resistance.  Unfortunately, that way may not lead you where those who are in it with you claim it is leading.  

Timothy has a great advantage in verse 14.  It is true of all men who have the good fortune to come from godly homes, that the teaching and example of Christian parents is a priceless advantage; but such parents always teach their children that the authority is not in themselves but in the Word of the Lord.  

Verse 15 mentions Timothy learning from his childhood.  Jewish children were to be taught the Law at all times.  Dt 11:19  It was believed that if you taught them when they were young, they will hold onto it when they are old.  Pr 22:6  I read a Jewish maxim that said, "...the Jewish child receives the law from his mother's milk."  The purpose of this was to have wisdom that leads to salvation.  Remember, wisdom is the proper application of knowledge.  That salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ.  

This verse explains what "faith in Jesus Christ" truly means.  Many teach a "believe and receive" doctrine today.  This verse says nothing like that.  This verse says "faith in Jesus Christ" is an adherence to Christ's teachings, not a mere mental assertion.  Timothy is not told to simply think on Christ, but he is told to live out what he has been taught.  That my friends, is having faith.  Those who refuse to be baptized into Christ (Gal 3:27) for the remission of sin  and the gift of the indwelling Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38) refuse Christ's teachings.  Mk 16:16    They refuse to be baptized into Christ and thus making them outside of Christ.  Some argue that one baptism is as good as another and you do not need to be baptized for remission of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit.  If you were baptized to "join" a church you're good.  Well, the Bible speaks of one baptism (Eph 4:5) and Paul didn't allow another baptism in Ephesus (Acts 19:1-5)  The one baptism of Ephpreceded by belief and repentance.  

I stand convinced from that Word of God because verse 16 tells me the Word is inspired by God.  That is why Timothy is to have a faith that adheres to Christ's teachings because they are by God's authority.  Christ was given his authority from God! Mt 28:18  If the Church is to prosper it must be taught the Word of God.  It must be reproofed by the Word of God.  It must be corrected by the Word of God.  It must be trained by the Word of God.  Where the Word of God is taught and obeyed faith abounds and where the Word of God is not taught and obeyed immorality abounds.  

The last verse tells us why we must be taught, reproofed, corrected, and trained by this God inspired Word.  So that we will be "thoroughly equipped." 2Ti 3:17 NIV  I personally prefer the NIV translation here as opposed to NASB.  The Word of God thoroughly equips us to do God's work and that is saving souls.  God doesn't send us out into the world blind and helpless.  He has given us a way back to Him through Jesus Christ.  He has given us a helper in the Holy Spirit.  He has also equipped us with all we need to know and accomplish His will in our lives in His written Word.  

Today, will you submit and obey God's Word?  Will you teach others from God's Word?  God gives us His Word so we are ready and equipped to do His work.  God doesn't give us jobs we can handle; He makes us able to handle the jobs He calls us to!  Don't pray for God to remove mountains in your life.  Pray for God to  give you strength to climb those mountains! Have a red letter day.

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

We must hear the Word of God:  Rom 10:17; Acts 4:4

We must believe or have faith:   Heb 11:6; Acts 16:31

We must repent of our sins:  Lk 13:3; Acts 17:30

We must confess Christ before others:  Mt 10:32; Acts 8:37

We must be immersed into Christ (baptized) Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38

We must be faithful:   Rev 2:10; Acts 14:22      

Three P's in Salvation

Eph 2:4-10

I always seem to be using the letter "P" in illustrations, catch phrases, and things of that nature.  Some of my favorites are "If you want a promise you must meet the perquisite"  and "We must practice our Bible not just profess it."   I posted something similar to the latter phrase yesterday on Facebook and this comment was posted "Possess, Practice, Then profess it" and I loved it and it got me thinking of today's blog. 


First, we must understand that we were possessed by sin.  It must be understood that mankind is lost and unable to provide salvation for themselves.  While possessed by sin we were enemies of God, but through the death of Jesus we are reconciled and saved through his life. Rom 5:10    In verses 4,5 we read of mercy and grace.  I often say that mercy is the removal of an earned punishment and grace is an unearned gift.  "By grace you have been saved" says that salvation cannot be earned but it is a gift!  Ps 3:8  We have the earned punishment of death because we have sinned removed by God's mercy.  We have an unearned gift of salvation from that death by God's grace.  Remember, producing Christian fruit in our lives is not EARNING salvation or grace.  It is PROVING salvation!  Now on to the three P's.


We are saved from the PRESENCE of sin. (vv5,6)  Because of God's mercy we are made "alive together with Christ"  and by the grace of  God He has "raised us up with him."  Keep in mind that before we can be raised up, we first must go down.  By that, I mean down into the waters of baptism.  Col 2:13,13   If we want to be resurrected with Christ we must be buried with Christ. Rom 6:4  Through Christ God has "seated us with Him in the heavenly places."  A knowledge of that should bring Col 3:1,2 into perspective.  Far too many of us are focused on earthly value.  I am reminded of the story about the older preacher.  It goes something like this.  An older preacher had a surprise visit from some of the members of the congregation he preached at one afternoon.  One of the visitors said, "Hey preacher, where in the world is your furniture?"  The preacher replied, "Well, where is yours?"  The visitor chuckled and said, "Why would I have furniture here?  I am just a visitor."  The preacher boldly replied, "So am I!"  How do we look at the time we spend here?  Do we see ourselves as visitors.  Consider what Peter said in 1Pe 2:11  He says we are "aliens and strangers."  GOD SAVES US FROM THE PRESENCE OF SIN IN HEAVEN!


We are saved from the POWER of sin. (vv8,9)  We are only saved by the grace of God.  Acts 15:11  I believe we can get at least these four statements form from what Paul says when he said, "For by grace you have been saved" and they are:


1. Mankind is unworthy of the salvation of the grace God provides.


2. Mankind can not achieve this salvation and grace that God gives on his own merit. 


3. The salvation and grace bestowed on mankind originated in the heart of God and it flows from God to mankind.  It is from God and God alone.


4. This salvation and grace is for all mankind. Titus 2:11


The word "saved" used in these verses does not mean to be trouble free.  It means to deliver from danger; spiritual and eternal salvation granted by God; God's power to deliver from sin.  You can be saved and still have problems and struggles.  Sometimes we stumble into sin, what I call accidental sin, and many think that disqualifies of us God's grace.  We do not go in and out of God's grace several times a day.  Although we can fall from grace.  This happens with intentional and continuous sin.  The bible clearly teaches a person can return to sin and fall from grace.  Heb 10:26,27; 38,39; 2Pe 2:20,21


The words "through faith" are important.  It is no doubt that the grace is what saves and not the faith!  Although, the faith in the grace is what causes the proper actions!  Someone once said, " Faith is the channel not the cause."  Faith is a full acknowledgement of God's revelation or truth; a personal surrender to Him; a conduct inspired by such surrender, 2Co 5:7  This is referring to an active and living faith, not a mental decision we have made about our savior!  The explanation comes in the next part of the verse.  “Not of yourselves… not of works” We cannot earn this grace, but many people believe they can live as they want because they are “saved by grace”   Jas 2:26  If our faith is dead, inactive, or lacks personal work it is a DEAD FAITH THAT DOESN'T SAVE!!  We are to have good works Tit 3:1,2  In Heb 11 faith is always followed by a verb!  The only time faith is separated from deeds is when the faith is dead!  Does your faith have a verb?  Remember, producing Christian fruit PROVES salvation not EARNS salvation!  GOD SAVES US FROM THE POWER OF SIN IN OUR FAITHFULNESS


Lastly, we are saved from the PUNISHMENT of sin. (v10)  It is God who saves us! We are not saved by works, but are his workmanship!  Verse 10 says, “God prepared beforehand”  which says it is His ordination that all God’s children should practice good works. Jn 3:16), He wants all mankind to be saved (1Ti 2:3,4), We are made acceptable through His son (Rom 5:8); His blood washes away our sins and we are born again when immersed in the likeness of that death, burial, and resurrection(Jn 3:5; Rom 6:4; 1Pe 3:21), and after that we are to be remaining faithful and maintaining good works (Rev 2:10; Jas 2:26; Eph 2:10).  WE ARE SAVED FROM THE PUNISHMENT OF SIN THROUGH CHRIST BU THE GRACE OF GOD!


The Word of God is still changing people today.  God's Grace is still saving people today. All that is needed is your desire to become a follower of Jesus Christ.  When Jesus called his disciples he often said, "Follow me" and he is still saying that today.  I ask you, are you in Christ today and saved from presence, power, and punishment of sin by the grace of God.

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

We must hear the Word of God:  Rom 10:17; Acts 4:4

We must believe or have faith:   Heb 11:6; Acts 16:31

We must repent of our sins:  Lk 13:3; Acts 17:30

We must confess Christ before others:  Mt 10:32; Acts 8:37

We must be immersed into Christ (baptized) Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38

We must be faithful:  Rev 2:10; Acts 14:22   

Pardon Me

Mt 16:26

There are a lot of people in the world who do not know if they are a Christian or not.  I  have been asked, "How do I know my sins have been pardoned?" and "How do I know I am child of God?"  These are very serious questions.  They have great implications on a person's life.  Jesus himself said one soul is worth more than the whole world in the above scripture.   The Bible says a soul winner is wise. Pr 11:30  That makes this subject of pardon a very serious one!  We should not underestimate the question, "What must I do to be saved?"  A wise person will not risk a false answer to this question.

The New Testament leaves a reader assured of their sins being pardoned.  We read things like "we know we have passed from life to death" 1Jn 3:14,  "now we are children of God" 1Jn 3:2,  "you have been freed from sin Rom 6:18, & "I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him" 2Ti 1:12.  There is no doubt a person can be and should be assured that they have had their sins pardoned.  This assurance is not based on the acceptance of doctrine but that the doctrine has become incorporated into the life of a Christian.  There is a difference in professing and practicing.  

Unfortunately many Christians do not show that type of confidence today as the scriptures we mentioned above.  Often times there is a hesitance or vagueness when you ask a person, "Are you a Christian?"   I have gotten the reply, "I hope so.  I'm trying to be..."  I like to ask "Are you married?"   (This only woks if the person is married!)  They don't say, "I hope so.  I'm trying to be..."  They know they are married because they went through and completed certain requirements to be married.  Well, the same concept applies to us being married to Christ.  A Christian can know they are a Christian because they have met the "requirements" or complied to the conditions that says we are Christians.  For that reason, A Christian should be able to boldly say, "Yes, I am a Christian!"  We should know beyond a doubt that we have been pardoned of our sin.

A few problems exist that doesn't allow a person to have the adequate evidence of pardon.  One is many people think they have or need to have a special communication from God.  They want to hear from a special voice that says "your sins are forgiven" like the paralytic man that was lowered from the roof.  Mt 9:2  Many people trust in lights, visions, and voices to assure them they are saved or pardoned.  I once heard a person say they knew their relative was saved because before she passed away she poke of visions of angels in her hospital room.  They felt since these visions were present there was no need to share the Gospel with her.  They said "She wouldn't have listened anyway."  That woman died and that family believed that was God's assurance of her being pardoned.

Consider what Peter said in 2Pe 1:3.  He uses the word "granted" which is past tense.  Jesus, through his word, has given us all we need to know about forgiveness and being pardoned.  

Another problem is in the special feeling thought process.  Many people rely on a special feeling to assure them that have been pardoned.  We can not trust our emotions or feelings because they are deceitful and will lead us astray.  Consider a couple that has been trying to have a child.  The woman takes a pregnancy test and it says she is pregnant.  The couple is ecstatic.  They are filled with extreme joy only to find out the test was wrong.  The emotions they felt were based on a false truth, but their feelings were real.  Another couple down the road takes the same test and it is negative.  They are so relieved because the last they need is another mouth to feed.  They too come to realize the test was wrong and their emotions or feelings were just as real as the first couple.  Jacob let his emotions say, "Surely I will go down to Sheol in mourning for my son." Gen 37:35  We all know his emotions were strong and real.  They were also false as his son was alive, a truth he would realize later in his life.  Feelings or emotions feel the same whether they are based on truth or lies.  Therefore, they should not be trusted or used as an assurance of pardon.

I am in no way trying to downgrade the feelings a person has at the moment they are converted.  The eunuch, after his baptism, went on his way rejoicing. Acts 8:36-39.  Ps 51:12 mentions the joy of salvation.  I am just saying we should not allow our emotions or feelings ALONE to dictate our knowledge of us being pardoned.  

A third area that can be problematic in us knowing we are pardoned is sincerity and a clear conscience.  Again, sincerity is must in Christianity but it is not the ONLY must in Christianity.  If you talked to a person who worshiped a god of a volcano and you witnessed them throwing a child in a volcano as a sacrifice and asked them, "How does your conscience allow you to do that?"  They would most likely reply, "I did this because my god required it.  I am a sincere follower of my god.  My conscience is clear." Saul was sincere when he persecuted the Church.  I'm sure you can recall instances in your life where you were sincerely wrong about something.  Sincerity ALONE is not proof of a person being pardoned.  Our conscience is only reliable when we are taught true facts.  

Forgiveness takes place in the mind of God!  Pardon is not done in us, but it is something that is done for us.  God alone has the power and authority to set the terms of our pardon as He is the one we have sinned against.  Our task is to find these terms of pardon and see that they are completed.  We find these terms of pardon in the God's Word.  God's Word teaches that obedience is imperative to being pardoned.  Rom 6:17,18  Profession without practice leaves a person lost. Mt 7:21  We know we are pardoned because we have the terms of pardon written and delivered to us, (the Word of God) from the proper person of authority (God), and all we must do is obey those terms.

 Consider this story.  A man gets out of jail after receiving a letter saying he is pardoned from the Governor.  This letter states he is a free man as long as he doesn't disobey the laws anymore, visits his parole officer weekly, and holds down a job.  This man is walking home filled with the joy of being pardoned.  The Sheriff, who is unaware of him being pardoned, stops and says, "I'm going to have to arrest you."  To which the free man replies, "Sorry sir, but I have been pardoned."  The Sheriff says, "Boy, you better prove to me you have been pardoned."  The free man says, "Well Sheriff, last night I had a dream and in that dream I heard a voice that told me I was pardoned.  That is a unique experience, Sheriff."  The Sheriff said, "Indeed it is, but that is not proof of being pardoned!  That will not stand court, son."  The man replied, "But Sheriff, when I got up this morning I was filled with a great feeling inside me and I just knew I was pardoned."  The Sheriff growled, "These voices and feelings are not going to cut it son.  You better have some real evidence that you are pardoned or I'm taking you back to jail."    The free man said, "Sheriff, I am sincerely telling you that I have been pardoned."  Almost losing his temper the Sheriff replied, "I tired of hearing of these unique communications, special feelings, and how sincere you are.  I want hard evidence you are pardoned right now!"  The free man says, "I have this letter from the Governor that says if I obey his commands I am a free man and I am pardoned, Sheriff."  The Sheriff reads the letter and says, "Why didn't you yell me this in the first place?"  The free man said, "I thought those experiences would be enough to prove I was pardoned, Sheriff."  The Sheriff said, "You aren't pardoned until the proper authorities say you are pardoned son.  Go on, obey those commands, and live a life of freedom." 

We are not pardoned until God says we are pardoned.  We have the terms we must obey to be pardoned, from the proper authority, and we too can live a life of spiritual freedom through Jesus Christ who died for you and me.  Today, will you share the terms of pardon with others?

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

We must hear the Word of God:  Rom 10:17; Acts 4:4

We must believe or have faith:   Heb 11:6; Acts 16:31

We must repent of our sins:  Lk 13:3; Acts 17:30

We must confess Christ before others:  Mt 10:32; Acts 8:37

We must be immersed into Christ (baptized) Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38

We must be faithful:  Rev 2:10; Acts 14:22   

     

What Happens at Baptism

Mk 16:16

Many people think baptism, or immersion, is just a formality.  I have been told that baptism is to be administered after one is saved from their sins.  This person held the belief that baptism is an "outward sign of an inward grace."

The Bible, however, says baptism is much more than that.  Mk 16:16 gives a MINIMUM of what must be done for salvation.  There can more criteria for salvation from this point, but never anything less than belief and baptism.  Does this verse say a person is lost without baptism?  Well, if you hold the above statement concerning "a minimum" for salvation to be true, then this verse absolutely says that.  If one has belief and has not been immersed then they have not done the "minimum" of Mk 16:16.  Notice this verse has two minimums for salvation and only one for condemnation, mere disbelief.  Many ask why there is no mention of baptism in latter part of the verse?  I see that as an easy answer because belief must be present prior to a person being immersed.  The eunuch is a great example.  When he sees water he asks why he shouldn't be baptized.  Look at what Phillip tells him in Acts 8:37.  His belief was present prior to his baptism.  Therefore, if no belief is present, like the latter part of Mk 16:16, there is no need for a baptism.

My friend believed baptism is to be administered after one is saved from their sins.  Well in Mk 16:16 "and" is a very important word in that verse.  In the Greek it is used in the conjunction form and is defined as having a copulative and cumulative force.  Which means belief "and" baptism must be present for a person to receive salvation, not salvation then baptism.  belief and baptism cannot be separated for salvation.  He believed he was saved from sin prior to baptism, but the Bible teaches baptism is what washes away our sins. Acts 22:16.  Acts 2:38 says a similar thing.  It is at our baptism where we are changed, or transformed, from sinner to saint.  See Rom 6:4.  We go into that watery grave as a lost sinner.  We get immersed, or baptized, for the remission of our sins into the likeness of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.  Our old self is buried and laid to rest in that water.  We rise to a "newness of life" where we are a new person.  Once we are baptized we are "in Christ" (Gal 3:27) then we are a new creature. 2Co 5:17  Many people struggle with this thought because they do not see a physical transformation at our baptism.  If we will keep an open mind on this subject consider the following:

1.  At a wedding a person is changed from single to married.

2.  At a military induction ceremony a person is changed from civilian to military personnel.

If we can understand the two examples above why is the transformation, or change, at our baptism so difficult?  We must understand that baptism is the dividing wall between saved and lost or sinner and saint.  Baptism is not God imputing righteousness into a sinner, it is God putting the lost into Christ!

What do people in the Bible say about baptism?

1.  We already know what Jesus said in Mk 16:16

2.  Paul said when we are baptized into Christ when we are baptized into his death in Rom 6:3.   We contact Christ's blood when we are baptized into Christ's death.  There only two ways to contact his blood and they are baptism and communion.  One is about entering a blood relationship with God through his Son and the other is maintaining that blood relationship with God through his Son.  

3. Peter said we must repent prior to baptism, we another minimum pertaining to salvation, and then we are immersed for the remission of our sins in Acts 2:38.

    Peter also said baptism now saves us and compares it to the waters of the flood in 1Pe 3:20,21.  It was the waters of the flood that separated Noah from a disobedient generation.  It is the water of baptism that separates sinner and saint today.  Noah and his family were "born of water" and the Christian today is to do the same. Jn 3:5   It was the water of the flood which washed away the filth of that evil generation and it is the water of Christian baptism that, in a figure, washes away the sins of Christians. There is a variation in the figure here, which Peter pointed out.  Namely, that, whereas it was actual filth that was washed away by the flood, it is moral and spiritual filth which are washed away in baptism. The former affected the flesh and not the conscience; the latter affected the conscience but not the flesh.

Few were saved in the flood and few will be saved in Christ.  Mt 7:13,14

So what actually happens at baptism?   What we see from above is this:

Salvation (Mk 16:16); New birth (Jn. 3:5); forgiveness of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38); washing away of sin (Acts 22:16); burial into Christ’s death (Rom 6:3); clothed with Christ (Gal. 3:27); A new creature (2Co 5:17); figurative cleansing that saves us (1Pe 3:21); Spiritual circumcision (Col. 2:11)   THAT IS WHAT HAPPENS AT BAPTISM!!!

WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?

Hear The Word-  Rom 10:17; Acts 4:4

We Must Believe or Have Faith-  Heb 11:6; Acts 16:31

We Must Repent-  Lk 13:3; Acts 17:30

We Must Confess Christ Before Others-  Mt 10:32; Acts 8:37

1Pe 3:21; Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38  

We Must Remain Faithful-  Rev 2:10; Acts 14:22