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Good morning. This week's video Baptized is the second video of a three-part series on the topic of what baptism is and what it is not; we who are baptized into Jesus Christ are baptized into His death. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. This week's video Baptism is the first video of a three-part series on the topic of what baptism is and what it is not. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Colossians 2:11-15 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: (12) Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. (13) And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; (14) Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; (15) And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. (KJV)
Williams New Testament translation for Colossians 2:11-15 11. And through your union with Him you once received, not a hand-performed circumcision but one performed by Christ, in stripping you of your lower nature, 12. for you were buried with Him in baptism and raised to life with Him through your faith in the power of God who raised Him from the dead. 13. Yes, although you were dead through your shortcomings and were physically uncircumcised, God made you live again through fellowship with Christ. He graciously forgave us all our shortcomings, 14. canceled the note that stood against us, with its requirements, and has put it out of our way by nailing it to the cross. 15. He thus stripped the principalities and dominions of power and made a public display of them, triumphing over them by the cross. Again as we notice in the above illustrations, that rituals of the old law were symbolic of what is taking place in the spiritual realm. As we ended yesterday’s study we concluded with the fact that circumcision means nothing to our Lord anymore because He is more concerned with the new man, a new creation in Christ that is forming within the believer. Baptism is illustrated again for us as one of spiritual in nature, a life changing event that should be taking place within the believer and not some outward show or ritual. Once one is able to die to self and their own desires of the flesh then the Spirit is able to take over so that your desires are more of those things which are above and not below, or below our Lord’s standards and intent for His people. The Lord removed the curse of the old law and nailed it to His cross symbolizing that the debt is paid and we are now free to walk in the liberty which is only found in Christ. When we see people still holding to laws and rituals, we are seeing people that profess to know God but by dead works deny Him and the completed work He accomplished for us. Simply put, they are calling God a liar and claiming He didn’t do a complete work and that more was needed; not a good place to be in people. 1 Corinthians 1:14-18 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; (15) Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. (16) And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. (17) For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. (18) For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (KJV) I don’t know if there was a more die hard staunch believer, as well as indoctrinated in the old law, as a man named Paul, formerly known as Saul. As we see illustrated in the above verses, Paul himself came to the conclusion of what his calling truly was and how he himself was crossing over from the old into the new. Many people today enjoy hearing the word of God especially when it deals with blessings, but start teaching about dying to self, crucifying the flesh and its lusts, and that same many will head for the exits. Paul clearly states and points out that Christ did not send him to baptize, but rather teach the doctrine of Christ that deals with the new inward creation not the old fallen one. While many still consider the preaching and teaching of the cross and what it truly takes to be baptized into Christ foolishness, few realize that is where their salvation and power is. Take notice of verse 17 as well, because for those that still hold to these outward rituals and ignore the true spiritual meaning or implication of them, they are in essence leaning back to their own understanding and their teaching and preaching is of none effect. Hebrews 6:1-6 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, (2) Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. (3) And this will we do, if God permit. (4) For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, (5) And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, (6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV) Remember watching the movie ‘The Passion of the Christ’, and how painful it was to watch them nail our Lord to the cross? How one would watch this take place and think ‘how could they ever do that to our Lord’? Did you ever stop and think that is what is still taking place when people misinterpret the true spiritual meaning of the word of God, they are in essence crucifying the Lord and His doctrine again? One way or the other, you have a choice to either take up your own cross and follow our Lord, or drive another nail into our Lord and His people by teaching doctrine contrary to what our Lord intended. Remember when you sin and wound the conscience of the believers you are sinning personally against Christ, and crucifying Him all over again. As we see in the first few verses of Hebrews, that these basic principles and doctrines that were in place before are things we should be leaving behind, not still trying to implement. Once a believer gets a true taste of the truth and what these things symbolized it is time to move forward and walk in the Spirit, not trying to fulfill an old law that our Lord already did for us. Galatians 3:23-28 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (24) Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (25) But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. (26) For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (27) For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.(28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (KJV) Schools out people, and has been for over two thousand years. God’s people have graduated and are now walking in a new realm, one of faith in what Christ Jesus has done on our behalf and wishes to continue in each and every believer. When you enter the realm of the Spirit and seek to be seated with Christ then you need to leave your old nature at the door and put on a new man in order to enter into this realm. While some people claim that a certain sect or group of people were responsible for the crucifixion of our Lord; the word clearly states that God knows no one after the flesh but after the Spirit. Bottom line, we are either for Him or against Him, and spiritually many are still crucifying and butchering the true spiritual meaning of the word of God by hanging onto dead rituals that were nailed to the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Are you crossing over into the realm of the Spirit, or are you still hanging onto dead things which only bring dead results? He that has ears to hear let them hear what the Spirit is truly speaking today. God’s best and continue to walk in the Spirit. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:8-14 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: (9) Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. (10) For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. (11) Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. (12) Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. (13) Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. (14) For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. (KJV)
Now as verse 8 says, that if you are dead with Christ, dead to your own lusts and desires but alive with Him spiritually, then you are able to believe as well as live with Him in the realm of the Spirit. Once our Lord died it was done, not like under the old law where it would have to be done over and over again, but as we talked about yesterday it was a permanent change. Have you changed with the times, no I am not talking about being politically correct with the way of the world, but changing or transforming daily by the renewing of your mind in the things of God? Did you ever stop and think that when you yield yourself to the things of the old law and its rituals you are actually trying to establish your own righteousness, one our Lord doesn’t acknowledge? Another way to put it is when you are under the law then you have separated from grace, a grace that is needed in order to truly be saved. Galatians 3:10-14 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. (11) But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. (12) And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them. (13) Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: (14) That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. (KJV) Wasn’t this the whole intent and purpose that our Lord came to redeem us from the curse of the old law? Yet with this in mind, why do so many still hold to the law and its dead rituals, especially when it comes to the true spiritual meaning of baptism? There is no justification in the law, no righteousness, and yet with this in mind so many still hold to the dead rituals of it, thinking they will find justification. Again, did it ever occur to you that when you hold to these traditions and doctrines of man that in essence you are yielding yourself to something unrighteous, a law of death, and not of life that you think you are finding? Instead of reaching out for the spiritual lifeline our Lord provides for us in Christ, many are still grabbing and hanging onto an anchor rope, one tied from their neck to a millstone. Romans 9:31-33 But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. (32) Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; (33) As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. (KJV) Has much changed over the years, whether it be referred to as Israel or what man calls a church today? Rather than seek the Lord by faith to understand the true spiritual meaning of His word many are blindly rumbling, bumbling, and stumbling along seeking their answer in an old law and the works of it. There is a stone, a rock solid foundation for one to build their faith and trust in, that being Jesus Christ and the completed work He did for His people, not the completed work people think they still need to do. While many are running to and fro seeking the answer in the carnal realm they end up falling short by holding to a law that our Lord came to eliminate not duplicate, people. The only way you can and ever will be justified is by Christ, while anything else will have you falling short of the glory of God, basically falling flat on your face. Galatians 3:1-5 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? (2) This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (3) Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? (4) Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. (5) He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (KJV) Did you know that witchcraft is considered a sin, something our Lord doesn’t look too kindly on? Years ago there was a TV program called ‘Bewitched’ where someone wiggled their nose and made things magically happen. Sound silly and ridiculous? Well, every time someone reverts back to the works of the law, which does include water baptism folks, it’s like watching a rerun of Bewitched, something foolish and farfetched from reality. Your entrance into the realm of the Spiritual had nothing to do with your own works, and you remaining in that realm has nothing to do with man’s works, but rather a faith in the work Jesus Christ has done on your behalf. Strong’s definition for ‘vain’: 1500 eike (i-kay'); probably from 1502 (through the idea of failure); idly, i.e. without reason (or effect): KJV-- without a cause, (in) vain (-ly). Interesting word there concerning vain, something that has no reason, idle fits also. You know, a hundred years ago money was printed and put into circulation for trading and getting provisions needed. Since that time however a new system has been put into place in order to buy and sell. If one tries to use the old system today it would not be accepted because it has been replaced by a new system. The same pattern holds true with our Lord, the old served its purpose and has been done away, replaced by something new and in operation today. So when you see things in the Bible, say for instance the word baptism, do you just limit it to the old outward realm, or are you able to see the deeper spiritual implication of it, something that is of use and has substance today? Take some time and pray about the things you do and why you do them; ‘is it because someone else said it was so, or is it something I know came from the Lord and keeps me in good standing with Him?’ There has been a changing of the guard people; are you changing into one of God’s people, or are you idly hung up on the old law and its rituals that our Lord said He came to do away with? Just because it is a crowd favorite with many of man’s so called people doesn’t mean it works with our Lord. In fact that which man holds in high esteem is an abomination with God. In other words, when you see the many doing something they think impresses or pleases God that would be the first red flag to go back and see what the Lord’s true take and intention is. As long as you hold God to be true and man the liar then you will not fall or stumble in your walk. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:4-7 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. (5) For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: (6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (7) For he that is dead is freed from sin. (KJV)
When our Lord does something or asks something of us it is for our benefit, a change that will be long lasting. While mankind and their doctrines fall short and bring short term solutions to eternal issues, like for instance the old law, it could never take away sin but rather just covered it up, like a cheap deodorant. The living waters cleanse us from all sin, doesn’t just cover it up, but rather it cleans it up and removes it from us. So which realm are you walking in today and which law do you hold to; a spiritual law of faith that brings new life to the believer, or the letter of the old law which is dead and keeps those that are following it dead as well? Acts 1:4-5 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. (5) For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. (KJV) John the Baptist was considered one of the greatest prophets, yet he was still under the old law and limited by the carnal rituals of it. Even though our Lord separates the two baptisms in the above verses, encouraging the disciples that a better one was on the way, I am amazed today at how many grasp and cling to the old rather than take hold of the new life that is available in Christ. Here is a tidbit and something to chew on; you know, if you hold someone under water long enough it cuts off the source of life and results in physical death. Now if we take a different look at baptism from a spiritual aspect we can see a similar pattern, if one immerses themselves in the living spiritual waters, which is what baptism truly means and what Paul is teaching, then that too will result in death to an area of our flesh that has been hindering our walk with the Lord. Could it really be that simple people; when you really stop and pray and ask the Lord, you may find out that mankind and his limited carnal thinking is the one that made it so complicated and confusing. The Lord made His word simple, so simple in fact that man doesn’t comprehend it, they distort the scriptures to make it fit into their way of thinking. The Lord said the words that He spoke are Spirit and they are life. So are you able to see the spiritual meaning of the word of God that will bring new life within you, or are you like so many that hold to outward dead rituals which end up watering down the true meaning? Hebrews 9:8-14 The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: (9) Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience; (10) Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation. (11) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; (12) Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. (13) For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: (14) How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? (KJV) If you so desire you can go back to the beginning of Hebrews Chapter 9 and read it in its entirety, I just wanted to highlight a few points today. The things in the Old Testament were a figure, a representation or symbol of something new that would take place in the spiritual realm. The question being asked today is ‘have you taken your place where you belong which is in the Spirit as well so that you can see the true meaning and intent of the word of God for yourself’? It’s just as idiotic to think that the blood of goats and of calves, or any other ritual from the old law is going to bring you any closer to the Lord than what the blood of Christ has done to make a permanent way into His realm. And it is just as much of a waste of time, let alone missing the mark and the true meaning of God’s word, to think that pouring water or dunking someone in it is going to make one more spiritual when verse 10 says these things were imposed until the time of reformation, a time that ended once the Lord paid the price for His people. You want the old law, then why stop at water baptism, how about building alters in your back yard and offering sacrifices? Oh guys, instead of a super bowl party how about a circumcision one instead? Hey wait a minute, where are you guys going? Sound silly and ridiculous? Not anymore ridiculous than the way you try to serve a spiritual God with carnal ordinances. Since when do you get to pick and choose which ones you are going to institute? You want to purge a conscience from dead works, then you best get some living waters in there if you wish to achieve this, otherwise you are just all wet. --Bible Study Magazine, James Montgomery Boice (May, 1989) 907 baptizo- to overwhelm Not to be confused with 0911, bapto. The clearest example that shows the meaning of baptizo is a text from the Greek poet and physician Nicander, who lived about 200 B. C. It is a recipe for making pickles and is helpful because it uses both words. Nicander says that in order to make a pickle, the vegetable should first be `dipped' (bapto) into boiling water and then `baptized' (baptizo) in the vinegar solution. Both verbs concern the immersing of vegetables in a solution. But the first is temporary. The second, the act of baptizing the vegetable, produces a permanent change. When used in the New Testament, this word more often refers to our union and identification with Christ than to our water baptism. For example, Mark 16:16. `He that believes and is baptized shall be saved'. Christ is saying that mere intellectual assent is not enough. There must be a union with him, a real change, like the vegetable to the pickle! Take some time and pray about where you truly stand with the Lord, or should I say if you are truly standing with Him. The things of this realm are referred to as temporal, temporary; while the things of God are referred to as eternal. If you desire a change, to walk in a new life which is in Christ, then you will need to operate in the realm of the Spirit in order to make the permanent change. Get out of the old people and get into the new. God bless and keep the faith. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 3:7-9 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. (8) Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (9) And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: (KJV)
Paul gives an interesting account of his life before Christ, when he himself was caught up in the letter of the law and not the Spirit. I can relate to what is being said as well knowing my life was dung before the Lord, even though I attended religious organizations that in reality were dead and lifeless. Are you willing to suffer loss even though the fact that what is being given up in the physical realm will be replaced with a deeper understanding of the Lord? This is where many hit a snag in their walk; they allow the enemy to tell them that what they are walking away from is more important than what they are walking into, which is a deeper more intimate relationship with the Lord. The loss you may suffer through is only for a short time or season so that you can keep the lines of communication open with the Lord, which is what the word faith means, your ability to hear the message of Christ and know that what you are following is of Him. Again, keep in mind that when it comes time to let go of things that the Lord says is hindering our walk the payoff is a more excellent knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord, who Himself was willing to die for our sake so that we could live. Philippians 3:10-14 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; (11) If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. (12) Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. (13) Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, (14) I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (KJV) You know, before you can get to heaven you have to die first; are you dying to get there? In order to walk in the Spirit one needs to leave old things and old thoughts at the door before entering in and being seated with Christ. Like with airports these days, one has to go through metal detectors in order to gain access to their flight. The same holds true when entering the kingdom of God; one needs to discard any foreign object at the gate, something that may be deadly and harmful, in order to take off. Remember how our Lord died? Before the resurrection there was a crucifixion; well the same holds true with each and every believer today, we too are made conformable unto his death so that a new man can resurrect within us as well. Are you willing by any means to attain this resurrection, or are you still holding the baggage of this fallen world, baggage Paul described as dung? Romans 6:1-3 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? (2) God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? (3) Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (KJV) When you are baptized into Christ you get the whole package, which means He in turn expects a whole hearted effort. When you become baptized into the family of God it is like a company or any organization, you become initiated into their set of rules and regulations which then identifies you as one of them. The spiritual meaning of baptism is so much deeper than just getting water poured over you and having a bunch of watered down people jumping up and down and getting excited. Carnal people only have a carnal view of the true meaning of the word of God, and those that hold to water baptisms are holding to nothing more than watered down empty doctrines of man. I wish it was that easy folks, just pour some water over my head and then I could go merrily on my way, but that is nowhere near the answer to what Paul is truly describing. Keep in mind also that the grace of God is not a ticket to justify sin but rather His love and longsuffering that allows us to overcome the hindrances of our lower fallen natures so that we can partake of His new one in Christ. Are you dying daily, taking up your own spiritual cross and crucifying the flesh with its desires and lusts, or are you dying daily in the letter of the old law, still stuck in carnal dead end rituals which were done away in Christ? 1 Corinthians 10:1-5 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; (2) And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; (3) And did all eat the same spiritual meat; (4) And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. (5) But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. (KJV) You know folks, not much has changed over the years with people that claim they are God’s people. The children of Israel moaned and groaned for hundreds of years seeking deliverance from the Egyptians. So along comes Moses and introduces the people to their deliverance, baptizing, or introducing them into the things of God and how He operates, only to have them complain and wish to go back to the old. Those that should have been walking in a new life to a promised land ended up perishing and displeasing God because He didn’t operate the way they thought He should. Many people today are being overthrown in the wilderness also, because rather than follow the path of life the Lord had laid out for them, they end up off course and perish because of a lack of provisions. The Lord has laid out a path of escape for you also and supplied all your need before the foundation of the world. Are you on course today or are you following your own, you know that one Paul described as dung? Luke 12:49-50 I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? (50) But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! (KJV) John baptized with water because he was still under the old law and limited to that realm. While our Lord clearly points out that there is a baptism He wishes His people would partake of, one He was living in Himself. Is there a fire in you today; one that is a burning desire to serve the Lord, or have you doused it with man’s watered down doctrines that are stuck in dead end rituals that look good to the outward but do nothing for the inward man? Are you baptized and immersed in the living spiritual waters, one that will bring life to a spiritual seed which is Christ, or is your life a dung deal, something stinking to the high heavens? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 11:23-26 Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. (24) Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. (25) Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: (26) And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? (KJV)
Today it is a common knowledge that someday we will die and then be resurrected into the heavenly realm, or I should say that is the desire of every believer. However, if you notice the wording in verse 25, you will see our Lord makes the statement that ‘I am the resurrection as well as the life’, not I will be or have been, but I am, right now. Not only does He refer to Himself as the resurrection, but also the life; in fact by simply believing in Him we will never have to die. Ephesians 2:4-7 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, (5) Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) (6) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: (7) That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for quicken: 2227 zoopoieo- 1) to produce alive, to begat or to bear living young 2) to cause to live, to make alive, to give life a) by spiritual power to arouse and invigorate b) to restore to life If you notice in verse 6, the word hath is used, something that has already taken place and continues to. We were all dead in our sins; our old fallen nature kept us separated from the things of God so that we were not able to partake of the new life in Christ. Now that you are a partaker of this new life by being born again into the realm of the Spirit, Christ is resurrected in you, and allows you to be a partaker of His heavenly kingdom. You are now resurrected from a spiritual death, a separation from God, and have access to the throne of God through the name of Jesus Christ so that you can sit and hear the message of Christ on a daily basis. These are the true riches of an exceeding grace that is available now, not just some day in the sweet bye and bye. Colossians 2:12-13 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. (13) And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; (KJV) It’s a spiritual baptism that allows you to be spiritually risen with God from your dead end life in the flesh. Have you ever heard the term baptized by fire? Well, those that truly know the Lord have been baptized, identified as partakers of Christ by dying to self, allowing Him to resurrect and lead them on the path of life. In the Old Testament the children of Israel were considered to be baptized unto Moses as well, because the life they were now living was one that was following the commandments of God as He instructed Moses on how they should live. We too are identified with Christ, because we choose to be led by His spirit and not our old fallen nature which is influenced by the lusts of the flesh, thus giving us access to the heavenly realm. Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (KJV) You know, in order for there to be a resurrection there first has to be a death. Although many claim they want to go to heaven, few are willing to die to get there; which spiritually is something that should be taking place right now. Crucifixion was and still is a most excruciating way to die, and one that truly does keep the body in subjection. The Lord is asking His people to take up their own cross on a daily basis and die to self so that they can walk in newness of life being led by the Spirit and not the lower nature. So who is leading and guiding you this day; and are you headed in the right direction, taking a seat in the heavenly realm so that you can hear the message of Christ, and carry out His personal plan of salvation He intended for you to walk in? The life we now live should be a life of faith of the Son of God; what He has done on our behalf, as well as what He would like to continue to do in and through you. Now the real question is, ‘will you let Him’? Romans 6:3-7 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (4) Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. (5) For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: (6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (7) For he that is dead is freed from sin. (KJV) Remember what happened after our Lord was crucified? There was a resurrection that brought forth a new man. Those of us that allow our old nature to be crucified and buried will also experience the likeness of His resurrection by walking in newness of life, and not according to the old dead sinful nature. It is only those that truly die to sin who are freed from its deadly grasp, and are set free to walk in the Spirit and no longer fulfill the lusts of the flesh. Romans 6:8-11 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: (9) Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. (10) For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. (11) Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV) Verse 8 begins with the word ‘now’; a now faith in Jesus Christ that the life we now live in the flesh is one that will be by the faith of Him. We should be dead to sin so that we can now resurrect ourselves alive spiritually unto God through the one mediator between God and man, that being Jesus Christ our Lord. John 11:39-44 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days. (40) Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? (41) Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. (42) And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. (43) And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. (44) And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go. (KJV) If you look at the spiritual implications of what took place with Lazarus, you can see the similarities of how it parallels our own rebirth into the realm of the Spirit. We too at one time were bound up in sin and our life did stink as well, being dead spiritually and separated from our Lord. Once the stone, or should I say the stony heart was taken away, a new life was brought forth by the word of the Lord and resurrected. We were all bound up with sin and unbelief, but now we are loosed and set free to serve our Lord in spirit and in truth. Is everyday a new day with you; has the Son risen in you to enlighten you to the new life in Christ, or are you still spiritually bound in some dark realm? Arise and shine, and Christ shall give you life again. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, (5) And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, (6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV)
Do you remember how you were first saved, and entered into the realm of the Spirit? This new found life of love, joy, and peace; was it something you did that made it happen, or was it someone you believed in that made it happen? So if you entered this realm with this simple thinking, would not it be safe to say that in order to remain in this realm it would take a simple faith in Christ to keep you there? And yet with as simple as God made His plan of salvation why do so many fall away again, backslide as some say, and are putting the Lord’s plan of salvation for them to an open shame because they are no longer operating in His realm, but are trying to mix faith and the works of the law, which is like the term awfully good. The carnal mind is enmity with God and cannot be renewed into the things of God because it is foolishness to those that are in the flesh. Some people don’t like pointing the attention to our heavenly Father, but rather enjoy keeping the spotlight on themselves and their works, thinking God needs their help to accomplish His work. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (15) But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. (16) For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (KJV) When one is still trying to operate in the things of God according to their own thoughts and ways they will miss the mark and fall away. If one is not able to receive the things of God then obviously they are not going to do those things that are pleasing to Him, but rather they will continue in their quest to satisfy their own carnal desires. Again we see the word discerned; it’s this lack of discernment that causes many to fall back into the abyss of the flesh and its dead end desires. While many should be teaching and instructing others in the realm of the Spirit they have need that one teach them again the spiritual meaning of the word of God. And rather than operating with the mind and understanding of Christ, they are no longer able to function in His realm. Romans 10:1-5 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (5) For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. (KJV) Have you ever gone back and read what the Lord thinks of our own righteousness? How about the term self-righteous; which is not very flattering either? So why do so many miss the mark and enter this realm of mission impossible? Once again we see that their carnal thinking gets in the way and distorts the true meaning of God’s plan of salvation for mankind. Rather than submit themselves to right standing with God, which is only in Christ and that new creation being brought forth, many fall away again by trying to establish their own. As we see in verse 4 Christ is the end of the law, because He fulfilled it without sinning so that we wouldn’t have to be held in bondage to it any longer. But as one sees in the end of verse 4 it only works by a simple belief, nothing else. So in the end, those who try to establish a relationship with the Father by the law are those that choose to live or try to live in something that is dead and should be left for dead. Again Church, without faith it is impossible to please God; and once you have stepped out of the realm of faith, or try to add anything else besides faith, like works, you have now fallen under the title of a transgressor. Romans 6:3-6 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (4) Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. (5) For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: (6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. (KJV) When you think of baptism, do you just think of the water ritual, or are you able to discern the true meaning of what our Lord was demonstrating, and the spiritual implications of it? Again, we see similar to circumcision that it is not the outward one that the Lord is looking to, but it is that new creature or creation within you that is important. When you are baptized into Christ you are immersed into His plan of salvation, a new way of life that the believer should be eating, drinking, and partaking of spiritually, not just some one and done ritual. You have now been baptized, and have entered a whole new realm of thinking as well as living, a realm of faith no longer based on your works. You have been planted like a seed into the fertile heavenly ground so that the living waters could bring life to the new creation within you, so that Christ could again be resurrected within you and do those things that are pleasing to God through you. You no longer have to be a servant of sin, falling away into sin, but rather a new creation in Christ. Is your old nature buried with Him and left for dead so that you can be a partaker of the new nature, or are you hanging around the graveyard and digging up the dirt? Remember our God is not a God of the dead, spiritually, but a God of the living. So where are you finding life today; is it in Christ, or are still trying to do it by the works of the law which are no longer alive and in play, but dead and nailed to the cross of Christ? Galatians 3:27-29 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (29) And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (KJV) Have you truly put on Christ, or are you just a put on? Those that have truly been baptized, immersed in His living waters, will be walking in a newness of life and not the oldness of the letter which kills and causes one to fall away. If you are truly Christ’s then it can only be by believing in His promise of salvation, and not of works. Ephesians 4:4-6 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; (5) One Lord, one faith, one baptism, (6) One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. (KJV) As we saw in Hebrews 6, that one of the things that was causing people to fall away, was their lack of discernment concerning the doctrine of baptisms. While many still hold to the outward ritual, which one do you believe our Lord is concerned with? Paul narrowed it down to one baptism, which can only be established by one faith and belief in our Lord Jesus Christ. Are you truly baptized into Christ and have put Him on which makes all things possible to them that believe, or are you still holding to the old laws and rituals that make it impossible to please Him? 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (KJV) I will let you decide and discern for yourself so that you no longer will have to fall away, but be able to stay seated in the heavenly places in Christ. God bless and hold fast. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 16:16-17 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. (17) And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; (KJV)
Not only does the Bible tell us about believing and baptism (which by the way were not just talking about the water one, but is now making reference to a spiritual baptism), but it also clearly tells us that we will speak with a new tongue. What you need to realize is that once one is born again into the realm of the Spirit they are transformed, a change of heart if you would, into a new realm, the realm of the Spirit. So being that we are now considered a new creation, old things being passed away, we are now going to be speaking of the things in the new realm, things that pertain to the new creation in Christ. So again, the fact that the tongue is an extension of the heart it would only be fitting to say that you are now and should from this point forward be speaking the things of God, things that are spiritual and will bring life to ourselves and those around us. Acts 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. (2) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. (3) And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (KJV) Those who are being referred to in the above verses are the disciples of the Lord, who were instructed to wait in Jerusalem until they were endowed with the Holy Spirit. What we see first here is what was described in Matt 16:16, baptism, which is not referring anymore to the physical one of water but rather one of Spirit. Acts 1:4-5 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. (5) For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. (KJV) What we see is an illustration of what the Lord said in the book of John also, that God is a Spirit, and those that were going to worship and reverence Him, which is a description of worship, must do so in spirit and in truth. So the only way that was going to be accomplished was by the pouring out of the Holy Spirit; which the disciples were baptized with spiritually in the day of Pentecost. So once they were filled with Holy Ghost they then began to speak with tongues, and were now able to give utterance as the Spirit led them. Acts 2:5-8 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. (6) Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. (7) And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? (8) And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? (KJV) Now rather than make a lot of noise and gibberish as we talked about yesterday, they let the Spirit give utterance in a way that got the message of God across, no matter what group of people were there or what their own native language was. They were able to do things decently and in order, which was building the others up around them rather than putting on a show. Can you imagine how much more effective God could work through you if you let His Spirit have its way, and spoke those things that He wanted spoken? Here is a perfect example of speaking with a new tongue; basically, anytime we speak the things of God are we not also speaking with a new tongue? Acts 2:9-12 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, (10) Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, (11) Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. (12) And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? (KJV) Suddenly a bunch of people that were what many considered unlearned and uneducated in the things of God were suddenly speaking about the wonderful works of God. Isn’t that what happened with you as well; suddenly something new happened in the heart and brought new life, and enlightened you to a new realm, something that you just couldn’t help but speak and share with others? So while many limit God and think the only way one is spiritual is if they can speak in a tongue or a language that is not discernable, the simple truth is anyone speaking the things of God in truth are now operating with a new tongue because of a new heart. John 4:25-29 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. (26) Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (27) And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her? (28) The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, (29) Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? (KJV) If you go back and read the whole account you will see a perfect demonstration of our Lord speaking with a new tongue; because Jesus Christ of Nazareth was the first born of all mankind to set the example of how to operate in the newness of life, a life in the Spirit. How effective are your words today; are you speaking words of life and letting the living waters flow though you, or are you limiting God to your own ways and understanding? Ephesians 4:14-16 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (16) From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (KJV) From this point forward it’s a matter of learning how to speak the truth of God’s word with the pure motive of love so that the Church can grow up and mature in Christ. Not only have you learned how to edify yourself in the things of God, but you have learned how to speak with a new tongue the words of life which will build up and edify others; now you’re talking. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 3:8-10 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, 9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; (KJV)
The purpose of this week’s study was to show the difference between the old outdated doctrine of water baptism and the new spiritual baptism so that we could learn to be immersed in the new living spiritual waters that our Lord has made available to mankind. Knowing our Lord personally and experiencing His power will only take place when your old nature is nailed to the cross of Christ. There is power in the resurrection because you are no longer influenced by the outward sight. Galatians 2:18-21 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. 19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. 20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. 21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness comes by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. (KJV) The old law is a death sentence to many believers who begin so well in the Spirit, but then go back to old things to try and perfect their walk with God instead of doing those things that are pleasing in our Lord’s sight. It is frustrating to God to see His people who were set free for a season walk right back into the snare of the devil by the works of the law which are now considered vain and outdated. Ephesians 5:25-27 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; 26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, 27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (KJV) Instead of being stuck on water baptism, how about immersing yourself into the living spiritual waters which are the only ones that can get out spiritual stains. Given the fact that we need to clean up our act before showing up at the throne someday, why not find out what our Lord considers clean as compared to what mankind thinks will work. John 15:3-5 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abides in me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (KJV) It’s the simplicity of the gospel that gets missed and overlooked by people who claim to be spiritual, yet still operate in the flesh. We have been engrafted into the tree of life and we are required to bear the fruit of the Spirit; and the best way for that to happen is to water it with living waters, which again Church are spiritual and not carnal. Ezekiel 36:25-27 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. 26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. (KJV) All this week we have been showing the difference between John’s baptism and the one our Lord desires to see us immersed in. It is up to you personally to decide which realm you want to walk in, because only one will work, and that would be the spiritual one. Titus 3:4-6 But after that the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared, 5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior; (KJV) John baptized with water, now you have access to the Holy Ghost, so grab what is rightfully yours for the taking and be renewed in the spirit of your mind. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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