Baptism Into Christ

Baptism has historically been one of the most celebrated and respected Christian ordinances and sacraments that exist. It has also been one of the most controversial. Those who chose to practice baptism different than the established "institutional" church often faced tremendous persecution, exile, and the audacious label of heresy. I'm specifically thinking of those who rejected the empty act of infant baptism for a more biblical approach where consenting, repentant, fully informed, and converted men and women were baptized into Christ.  

Another pitfall or shortcoming related to baptism is to strip it of it's beauty and meaning by insisting it only has symbolic or mere "public testimony" value. Today, baptism is commonly understood as a mere outward sign of one’s inward change of heart. However, this belief about baptism as a purely symbolic expression of personal faith does not adequately account for what the Bible says about the subject. Baptism should be considered sacramental and more than merely symbolic. Baptism should be regarded as something sacred and set apart (holy) for a special purpose. In baptism, human and divine activities coincide (Mark 16:16, 1^st Pet. 3:20-22).

It is through baptism:

• That God adopts us as his children (Gal 3:26-29)
• Makes us members of Christ's Body, the church (1^st Cor. 12:12-13)
• Grants us entrance to the Kingdom of God (John 3:5)

In the waters of baptism, the New Testament indicates we receive:

• Union with Christ in his death and resurrection (Rom. 6:3-5)
• Remission of sins (Acts 2:38, 22:16)
• A new life in the Holy Spirit (John 3:4-5,22; Acts 2:38).

The New Testament says we receive “remission of sins” and the “gift of the Holy Spirit” through baptism (Acts 2:38). This is not a magic trick nor a superstitious, legalistic act empty of mystery. It is because we are baptized into Jesus Christ after faith and repentance (Acts 20:21). He alone is forgiveness and His body is the temple where God’s Spirit dwells (Acts 4:12).

When we are baptized into Christ, we are baptized into His body, the Church. Salvation is social; to be justified by God is to be declared a member of His family (Gal. 3:26-29). Baptism should be taken seriously because God confers/distributes gifts that we will ultimately be held accountable for.

“He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden underfoot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?” (Heb. 10:28-29)

A high view of baptism does not imply that we should baptize babies or young children because it does not claim they have inherited the guilt of Adam’s sin, only his sin-prone nature (Eze. 18, Rom. 5:12-21). Neither does a high view of baptism suggest that it should be delayed for believing adults due to superficial or cultural reasons. The gifts conferred in baptism are understood as necessary for an overcoming life in the Spirit.

Understanding baptism as more than symbolic may generate the following questions:

•  “Isn’t the requirement of confession and restitution prior to baptism legalistic?” The Gospel call to “repent and…be baptized” (Acts 2:38) is not a request to merely feel bad about sins committed in the past but to do something in the present. The Greek word for repentance, metanoia, literally means a change of mind and new course of action. Making confession of past sins and seeking restitution with others are logical first steps on the path of repentance (Mat. 3:1-10).
• “Shouldn’t baptism and church membership be separated?” St Paul says we are baptized into Christ and consequently become members, not only of his body, but of one another (1 Cor. 12). There is no union with Jesus that does not also bring about union with other Christians.
• “If baptism is necessary for salvation what happens to those who die unbaptized?” A high view of baptism understands the sacrament to be a necessity under ordinary circumstances; however, it in no way implies that God’s mercy is limited in extraordinary situations. Jesus says to the unbaptized thief on the cross “…thou shalt be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43).

The Zion's Harp, a hymnal, appropriately captures the full meaning of baptism in several of its hymns.  

#10 Baptism: https://www.zionsharp.info/10-baptism.html
#34 The New Birth From Above: https://www.zionsharp.info/34-the-new-birth-from-above.html
#43 Baptismal Hymn: https://www.zionsharp.info/43-baptismal-hymn.html
#162 Baptism In Christ: https://www.zionsharp.info/162-baptism-in-christ.html
#163 The Covenant of Grace: https://www.zionsharp.info/163-the-covenant-of-grace.html
#209 Now It Is Done: https://www.zionsharp.info/209-now-it-is-done.html
#222 Looking Back To The Day Of Salvation: https://www.zionsharp.info/222-looking-back-to-the-day-of-salvation.html

May we not shy away from the power, mystery, and grace that engulfs Holy Baptism.  When souls experience true repentance and conversion, baptism becomes necessary as the springboard for a full and abundant life with God, our Maker, through His covenant of mercy we find in Christ.

A "Bible-believing" church?

Recently, I heard the phrase “Bible-believing church” in a sermon.  I started thinking about that phrase.  It wasn’t the first time I heard it used before.  Yet this time, I really started wondering what that actually means.  Was I in a “Bible-believing church”?  Am I a “Bible-believing” Christian?  Is the phrase code for something?  What do people mean when they say it?  What’s the operational definition of a “Bible-believing church”? Doesn’t just about every church, tradition, or denomination claim to be “Bible-believing”?  

As I chewed on those questions for a couple weeks, I had the chance to ask a potluck group of mixed ages this question: “What is a Bible-believing church?”  We didn’t get very far and no definition was given.  We pondered what threshold for adherence to the Bible constituted or met the definition of being “Bible-believing”.  What percentage of the Bible (and which parts for that matter) ensure a church or Christian is “Bible-believing”?

What about the Roman Catholics who utilize the Apocrypha?  The Jehovah’s Witnesses believe the Bible, right?  The Mormons believe the Bible, no?  

Looking to the Protestant wing of Christendom, most groups affirm the Bible as their book of choice and “believe” it.  Yet, within the large umbrella of Protestantism there are myriad sets of interpretations.  Some claim universal salvation for all people.  Some justify other definitions of marriage and use the scriptures.  Some believe the church started after the book of Acts in a different dispensation.  Some believe its okay to kill others/enemies in certain circumstances.  Some believe “once saved, always saved” and others disagree.  Some believe in a triune God, while others believe three manifestations of one God and essentially deny the Trinity.  Some believe Jesus’ teachings were for a different dispensation and not to be followed literally by Christians today.  Some teach that women should pray with their head covered while others state otherwise.  Some teach divorce after remarriage is prohibited and some do not. This list could on and on (i.e. wearing of gold, foot washing, pre-tribulation rapture, post-tribulation rapture, practicing a kiss of charity, etc.).  All groups “believe” the Bible.

So, what does it mean to be a “Bible-believing church”?  With thousands of competing and contradicting interpretations in the umbrella of Christianity, it seems prudent for every professing Christian to know the Bible, understand the historical perspective of the New Testament, and put Jesus at the centerpiece of any interpretative lens.  If we question the status quo, seek to understand the historic faith (early Church), and are willing to confront our own presuppositions, Christians may be lead to a better place than our current condition.  If we know what the Christian religion is, what it teaches, and how its adherents should practice their religion, we may start to bridge the enormous gaps that exist.  At a minimum, every professing Christian should seek truth and align with others practicing the true faith that Jesus entrusted to his disciples.  If more Christians knew what the Bible actually teaches, particularly the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles, I presume less people would be Christians.  Or, and more ideal, they would repent of their false ideas about the faith once delivered to the saints, realize the good news of the Kingdom of God, and seek to establish a pattern for the Church that already exists in the New Testament.  Perhaps, then, unity could increase and we all could have better discernment.  We may be able to then answer the elusive question, “What is a Bible-believing church?”

The Good News of the Kingdom

Jesus tells his audience to “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness…” (Mat. 6:33). Jesus was preaching the ‘gospel of the Kingdom’ (i.e. Matthew 4:23) and the kingdom of God/heaven was arguably the primary theme of Jesus’ message and why he believes he was sent (Luke 4:43).  Jesus showed himself to be the Messiah by his miracles and deeds to the poor and broken-hearted (Dan. 7, Matthew 8:16,17 connects Isaiah 53 with Jesus’ healing ministry, Isaiah 61 is read by Jesus in Luke 4). “Christ” was not Jesus’ last name but is a word derived from words meaning “the anointed of God”; a more accurate translation of “Christ” could be the modern word King. The Jews were waiting for a literal king (i.e. Mat. 11:3, Acts 1:1-8).  God was faithful to his covenant with Israel and had in mind the redemption of all earth extending to all people out of every tribe and nation (i.e. Amos 9:7-15 is quoted in Acts 15).  Thus, the gospel of the kingdom is a declaration of God’s reign and completion of the Law and Prophets (Luke 16:16).  It is what he has always desired: to rule over his creation and have a people of his own for his purposes (Exodus 19:1-9).  In Mark 1:14-15, the “gospel” is equated with the Kingdom of God.  Much of the narrative of the four Gospels tells the story of how Jesus is the long awaited King. He was fiercely opposed by the corrupt pagan and religious systems of his day which corroborated to crucify him (Mark 8:15). The Pharisees resisted the Kingdom of God with their insistence on covenant identity being defined by Torah (Law of Moses).

After the fall, Satan became the “prince of the power of the air” and earth went under his control (Eph. 2:2, Rom. 5:13-17).  The Lord chose the nation of Israel until the time of the incarnation when Jesus was sent to redefine the kingdom and clarify/expand the meaning of the God’s law (“you have heard it hath been said, but I say unto thee…”).  Through Jesus’ death and victorious resurrection, sin, death, and ultimately Satan were mysteriously defeated and humanity was ransomed from corruption (Mark 10:45, 1 Tim. 2:6).  By turning in repentance and faith to God, humans can be freed from bondage, “born again” into God’s Kingdom, and given a new nature to obey the commands of Jesus (Romans 8:1-8).  To Nicodemus, Jesus states “unless you are born again, ye cannot see the Kingdom of God” (John 3:3-6).  The purpose of being redeemed is to “see” the Kingdom of God. 

Jesus continued to preach the Kingdom of God after the resurrection (Acts 1:1-8) and it appears to be a key talking point for the Apostles, including Paul (Acts 19:8, 20:25, 28:23, 28:31).  In Acts 17:6-8, the Christians were accused of saying there was a different “king, one Jesus,” and not Caesar.  The early church seemed to believe that Jesus was indeed a king of God’s nation in very concrete terms and in competition with Caesar’s kingdom (Acts 4:24-28/Psalm 2:1,2).  The kingdom of God is to penetrate the earth (Mat. 28:16-20, Mark 16:15-20), turn lives around by the power of the Spirit, and literally deal with the problems that plague our globe.  The good news of the Kingdom of God is the cosmic explosion of God’s power and love meant to defeat the devil (1 John 3:8 and Heb. 2:14). The atonement fuels this objective as sin is defeated within each converted and baptized disciple of the King (Heb. 2:14-15, Rom. 6:14-18, Tit. 2:11-15, John 8:31-36).

A kingdom has a king, a domain, citizens, and laws. Citizens of God’s kingdom love and obey Jesus while repudiating all evil and any system not built on the foundation of Jesus’ rule (John 15:14).  The kingdom of God is in competition with all other kingdoms as they are built on wealth, dominance, and carnal resources (Satan’s powers) and the whole creation groans because of this (Rom. 8:21-23). The salvage/salvation message is not merely so we can “go to heaven when we die” or “get saved” in a forensic sense but to submit to the Lord, let him “kingdomize” our entire life, and show others this way (John 14:6, Acts 19:9).  Jesus’ teachings are to be followed and obeyed as they contain eternal wisdom from the Father (i.e. divorce/remarriage, non-resistance, forgiveness, not taking oaths/honesty, overcoming lust, etc.). We cannot serve two masters so following Jesus is no light matter hence Jesus’ serious call to allegiance in the Gospels (i.e. Mat. 6:24, Mat. 19:21, Luke 9:22-27).

The Ekklesia/Church are groups of citizens of God’s kingdom called into council together (1^st Peter 2, 1 Tim. 3:15).  The church is separate/cut off from the world system and seeks to establish a culture that is distinct and connected to the apostolic pattern found in the New Testament (John 17, 1^st Cor. 11:16, 2 Cor. 6:14-7:1, 1^st Thes. 2:14, James 4:4, 1 John 2:15-17).  The church follows the commands of the King and the pattern of the New Testament church even if culturally awkward or seemingly irrelevant (Mat. 10:33, 2^nd Tim. 10-14).  At his final appearing, King Jesus will establish his eternal Kingdom where evil is dealt the final blow and God can once again lovingly rule over his creation in peace and bliss (Rev.19-22).  The life of Jesus, the atonement, and the Holy Spirit given as a source of power for holiness and obedience is indeed all of God’s love and favor (John 3:16, Eph. 2:8-10, Titus 3:3-8).  Whoever willingly submits to the “righteousness of God” (his covenant faithfulness to Israel in sending the King to establish his Kingdom) will have the power to follow his commandments and extend his Kingdom (John 1:12, Rom. 1:16, Rev. 12:10).  This is all very, very good news!

The True Meaning of Christmas

The follower of Jesus is left in an unusual quagmire each Christmas season.  In many ways, Christmas has become commercialized and materialistic.  The holiday has become a superstitious mystical event that borders on idolatry.  The holiday is associated with over-eating, over-spending, and interpersonal stress.  Family tensions can be heightened.  Mental and emotional issues like depression are more common because of these maladies.

Yet, when all the fluff, presents, cookies, and mysticism are stripped away from the American Christmas season, the real reason to celebrate quietly emerges.  For the true believer, Christmas is a time to reflect on the birth of Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah.  The real meaning of Christmas causes us to reflect on what is important in life.  But beyond the warmth we feel when gathering with loved ones and getting a day off of work, Christmas should be about celebrating the birth of a King as the vital event leading to the inauguration of God's Kingdom and ultimate plan to redeem earth from evil oppression.

All of the wrongs of this world are put to right when humans repent and embrace the Kingdom of Heaven.  The incarnation of Jesus as God's anointed is truly Good News!  It should be celebrated.  Why? First, the Savior had to be born before he could bring us new revelation from Heaven.  He had to be born before he was brutally crucified on our behalf.  He had to die before he could rise again and defeat death.  He was born to "save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21).  We ultimately celebrate Christmas because a whole new era of humanity was brought about and can exist because of God's great gift to creation.

Many of the classic Christmas hymns capture and celebrate the underlying reason for celebrating Christmas, rightly putting the focus on King Jesus and the arrival of the Kingdom.

Here are three, first:

Hark! the herald angels sing,

"Glory to the newborn King!"

Peace on earth, and mercy mild,

God and sinners reconciled

Joyful, all ye nations, rise,

Join the triumph of the skies;

With th' angelic host proclaim,

"Christ is born in Bethlehem." 

Hark! the herald angels sing,

"Glory to the newborn King!"

Christ, by highest heav'n adored:

Christ, the everlasting Lord;

Late in time behold him come,

Offspring of the favored one.

Veil'd in flesh, the Godhead see;

Hail, th'incarnate Deity:

Pleased, as man, with men to dwell,

Jesus, our Emmanuel!

Hark! the herald angels sing,

"Glory to the newborn King!"

Hail! the heav'n born Prince of peace!

Hail! the Son of Righteousness!

Light and life to all he brings,

Risen with healing in his wings

Mild he lays his glory by,

Born that man no more may die:

Born to raise the sons of earth,

Born to give them second birth.

Hark! the herald angels sing,

"Glory to the newborn King!"

Next:

O Come All Ye Faithful

Joyful and triumphant,

O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem.

Come and behold Him,

Born the King of Angels;

O come, let us adore Him,

O come, let us adore Him,

O come, let us adore Him,

Christ the Lord.

O Sing, choirs of angels,

Sing in exultation,

Sing all that hear in heaven God's holy word.

Give to our Father glory in the Highest;

O come, let us adore Him,

O come, let us adore Him,

O come, let us adore Him,

Christ the Lord.

All Hail! Lord, we greet Thee,

Born this happy morning,

O Jesus! for evermore be Thy name adored.

Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing;

O come, let us adore Him,

O come, let us adore Him,

O come, let us adore Him,

Christ the Lord.

Lastly:

O Holy Night!

The stars are brightly shining

It is the night of the dear Savior's birth!

Long lay the world in sin and error pining

Till he appear'd and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of hope the weary soul rejoices

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!

Fall on your knees

Oh hear the angel voices

Oh night divine

Oh night when Christ was born

Oh night divine

Oh night divine

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming

With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand

So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming

Here come the wise men from Orient land

The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger

In all our trials born to be our friend

Truly He taught us to love one another

His law is love and His gospel is peace

Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother

And in His name all oppression shall cease

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,

Let all within us praise His holy name

Christmas is all about celebrating the birth of King Jesus because under his law and rule, sin and evil are defeated and earth is redeemed.  Through Jesus, God gets to rule over his beloved creation and does so when people obey the laws of the new nation.  

In order to embrace Jesus as King, we need to humbly submit to his commandments.  The very first command of Jesus is to "Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!" (Matthew 3:2).  We must "forsake this world of vanity and all it's lewd deception" in order to embrace, realize, and appreciate the true meaning of Christmas.

Zion's Harp #107, verses 1-3:

Forsake this world of vanity and all its lewd deception!

Invite the Prince of Peace to thee, give Him a true reception.

Approach Him humbly, low, and meek.

Childlike, His grace and mercy seek, for surely He first loved thee.

He came in humble modesty and brought to us all blessings,

There in a manger slumbered He, eternal gifts possessing.

Arrayed in feeble flesh and blood appeared the gracious Son of God

To bring us all redemption.

In servant form the Saviour came, from bonds of sin releasing.

His loving face upon us shone with comfort, peace and blessing.

Removes all judgment and suspense, shows us the Father’s countenance

With love and grace surrounded.

Faith and Works

Jesus, the Son of God, has been raised from the dead with power according to the spirit of holiness (Romans 1:3&4).  Grace and apostleship were given to Paul and others for the specific purpose of witnessing to all nations that Jesus is truly Lord and King, the anointed one of God.  Faith should not be separated from obedience.  Obedience is the fruit of faith.  The extent that ones believes can be determined by the extent one obeys.  A dead, disobedient faith is not a true, rescuing faith.  God, through the work of the Spirit has sent Jesus to bless us by "turning away every one of you from his iniquities" (Acts 3:26).  If one has not been rescued from sin and ungodliness to righteousness and holiness, true faith is lacking.  We must deny ourselves, pick up a cross, and follow Jesus (Luke 9:23).  

Jesus and the Apostles were clear: it is the followers and the doers of the Word and not the hearers only who are wise (Matthew 7:24-27, Romans 2:13, and James 1:22).  Further, James tells us that we are not justified by faith alone (2:17).  Works must demonstrate our faith.  True, we enter into covenant and right relationship with God through our faith by His grace and not by any man-made system or self-appointed identity, but it is the evidence of the Spirit of Life that truly reflects that we have been converted.  In other words, it is our works that prove our faith.  The goal of our life should be obedience, striving to do the will of God (Matthew 7:23).  And we must start with faith and believing His teachings regarding sin, salvation, the Kingdom of God, hell, repentance, etc..  This will naturally change us.  He calls and we answer.  A changed life is demonstrative that one has truly answered the call of God.  It was the Father who loved us enough to redeem us and it is by His power, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, that we can repudiate sin and the world and walk in His ways, obeying His commandments.  Faith alone is dead (James 2).

Consider the penitent thief on the cross.  "The conversion of the thief on the cross has frequently been used to illustrate salvation without works.  Many ministers have affirmed that this is a proof and an example of 'salvation by faith, plus nothing'.  It is argued that his hands and feet were tied, rendering him altogether helpless to do anything.  As previously noted, however, some of the most difficult thing we have to do are done by mental or spiritual work.  Anything difficult to do or that takes effort to do must be considered work.  A careful look at the experience of the thief is enlightening.  At first he was in party with those who mocked and reviled Jesus on the cross (Matthew 27:44).  But suddenly he changed his thinking, repented, and began paying serious attention to Jesus.  He observed how unjustly Christ was treated, and probably he heard Jesus plead forgiveness for those who crucified Him.  He was impressed with his gracious spirit.  The thief believed in Jesus in perhaps the most difficult and unpromising hours ever to believe in Him.  It was the hour when religious and political leaders were mocking and scoffing the Lord.  He had been betrayed, forsaken, and denied by His own beloved disciples.  The thief believed in Jesus with no help or encouragement from anyone.  He acknowledged that he deserved his own punishment, and he confessed the righteousness of Christ. 'This man hath done nothing amiss' (Luke 23:41).  He witnessed to the other thief, who was continuing his reviling mockery.  He acknowledged Christ as Savior and Lord, and called upon Him for mercy.  He acknowledged Him as a king on His way to possess His kingdom.  Did all this take any effort?  Was it easy or hard?  This may actually have been one of the most difficult and outstanding conversions to Christ on the pages of history.  Indeed the thief's conversion was very far from 'salvation by faith, plus nothing'." (1)

The beginning and the end of faith is Jesus.  To love, obey, and serve Him.  It is by the death and suffering of Jesus that God justifies the ungodly by His pure grace not imputing sin to those who repent.  Then, a transformation occurs where the sinner is changed from wicked to righteous by the outpouring of the Spirit.  

"By the doctrine of justification of the sinner by faith alone, the judgement of condemnation is upon the proud pharisee who wants to be justified by the works of the law.  However, there is great comfort for the poor sinner in it because he does not have to bring anything with him for his justification except a broken heart, a broken spirit, and faith in Christ, the Crucified.  Nevertheless, this faith and justification by faith do not extend to all of the life that comes afterwards, and the works of grace (of the new divine nature) are not rejected like the works of the law.  These new works are just as required for salvation as the old works are inadequate for justification.  He who has received Christ, the image of God, that Adam lost can and must be minded and walk as Christ was upon earth.  That is not a difficult art.  However, he who does not have Christ in him by the Holy Spirit is not a child of God and consequently is not an heir of God by Christ, the inheritance cannot be earned legally.  Instead, it depends on the adoptions of sons, which results from the new birth and must then be shown by new obedience under the law of the Spirit or liberty.  Then it must be shown whether the man of God who has been pardoned and set up again from Adam's fall will do better than Adam did, for the children of God, in whom the image of God has been renewed by Christ, are tested just like Adam.  They can do all things by Christ who indwells them.  That is why those who do not have Christ in their spirit say it is impossible to live like Jesus Christ was.  However, man's last justification before God certainly takes place by works and not faith alone." (2)

Let us remember that it is God's good pleasure to give us the Kingdom (Luke 12:32) and that He is faithful (1st Thessalonians 5:24).  As we submit to God, let us not get bogged down with unfruitful discussions about faith vs. works to the point that we fail to realize the simple message of the Gospel: Jesus calls us to the Kingdom via repentance, Jesus saves us from sin and death via His death, Jesus redeems us with real power because He is alive, and Jesus inspires us to live obediently...for we must all appear before the judgment seat of the Lord (Romans 14:10 and 2nd Corinthians 5:10).

References
1. Shank, Aaron M. (2011). Faith and Works in Salvation. Rod and Staff Publishers, Inc. Crockett, Kentucky. pg. 30-31.
2. Froehlich, Samuel H. (2017). Meditations on the Epistle of the Apostle Paul to the Romans. The Heritage Center Foundation.  Fairbury, Illinois.  pg.38.

Separation from the World

The New Testament Church is to be separate from “this present evil world” (Galatians 1:4).  When we understand the Gospel as a royal summons to follow Jesus in his new kingdom, commune with Almighty God, receive forgiveness of sin, and experience resurrection spiritual power for overcoming, it is only logical and right that we are to be different than the hordes who reject or are ignorant of the sacred scriptures.  Those that have obeyed the Gospel and been baptized into the death, burial and resurrection of the Messiah have been called out of the world and into a holy nation, chosen generation, royal priesthood, and peculiar people (1st Peter 2:9).

In order to really understand the integral components of being separate from the world, it is important to define the terms.  To be separate is to be severed from or cut-off from something.  Webster's 1828 dictionary defines separate as "to disunite; to divide; to sever; to part, in almost any manner, either things naturally or casually joined" (1).

Jesus makes it very clear that his followers would be hated by the world because the world hated Him first (John 15).  When humans are reconciled to God by the obedience of faith (Romans 1:5), a disciplining experience unfolds when we deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Jesus.  Leaving all former allegiances behind (Luke 14:25-33), we enter into covenant with the Father on His terms.  Humans that share the similar experience of undergoing spiritual transformation and true conversion are united as a holy nation under the rule and leadership of Jesus, their King.  This forms the basis of the Church.  It is of free mercy that sinners may come confessing and the heart of God is moved.  And the effect of this initial repentance leads to an abundant life and communion with God according to holiness.  The conversion experience entails putting off former lusts (Ephesians 4:22 and 1st Peter 1:14) while putting on the new man according to the divine life of Jesus and the Spirit (Romans 8 and Galatians 6:15-18).

The word "world" can have several meanings in scripture.  One meaning is synonymous with the earth (Job 34:13).  Another meaning is congruent with the inhabitants on the earth (John 3:16).  In other areas of scripture, the world is described as something God’s people are to abstain from (Titus 2:11,12).  There is a strong connection between this form of the “world” and carnality and/or the flesh.  Thus, being separate from the world is an obligation, commandment, and blessing for God’s people.  The world which Christians are to be severed from can be equitable with the system, beliefs, entertainments, attitudes, styles, and fashions of those that are not God's covenant people.  This world system is not built around the life of Jesus and his kingdom teachings and values.  It is driven by carnal impulses and void of the true Spirit of God.

Consider these scriptures:

First, our Lord instructs in John 17:14-16, “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.  I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.”

Romans 12:1,2, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.  And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."

As a jealous and righteous being, the Father has always wanted people to obey Him for His glory and their benefit (i.e. Deuteronomy 6).  Please read and meditate on 2nd Corinthians 6:14 to 2nd Corinthians 7:1.

Faith and separation from the world are integral links in the new kingdom.  Hebrews 11:13-16 beautifully describes that full trust in God motivates the redeemed to freely confess that they are now strangers and pilgrims on earth seeking a better country and being careful not to return to the world of sin and evil.

A potent thought worthy of much consideration is given by James in 4:4, “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God?  Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

Can we love the world and love God at the same time?  God forbid.

‘What is the world?’ we may ask.  1st John 2:15-17 exhorts, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.  If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.  The world passes away and the lust thereof: but he that does the will of God abideth forever.”

Each one who has been redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus was in and of the world.  God rescues people out of their sin and the world.  We must humbly acknowledge that in former times, we were ‘of the world’.  By His help, we have mortified the deeds of the flesh and deal with our own fallen nature in the power of the Spirit (Colossians 3).  To be spiritual is to be separate.  To be spiritual, according to the Bible, is to be holy.  Achieving separation from the world is not grounds for pomp or pride.  True separation is born out of humility, hatred toward evil, and love for the Creator.  Sadly, many who desire separation are chided in various ways by other professing Christians.

The Church should live, teach, and exhort separation from the world.  True repentance and conversion predicates the doctrine.  As true believers order their lives around the precepts of God’s word, the commandments of Jesus, and the apostolic admonitions, there will be many opportunities to separate from the world.  In its beauty, the Bible does not give many specifics bound by time and culture, but rather unique and vibrant principles that must be applied.  Without separation from the world, can one truly identify themselves as a disciple of Jesus?  An honest attempt at separation is far better than no attempt at all.

May the Lord, our great King and eternal Savior, guide us into all truth and application.  May we humbly seek out His guidance to be separate from the world.  May we not simply try to avoid the “big” sins only to go with the flow of the broader society.  May we seek His will in the areas of adornment, entertainment, attitude, and lifestyle.  Every area of life should be under the subjection of King Jesus.

Is separation from the world optional?  God forbid.  It is foundational.

Reflect on Zion's Harp Hymn #185 in its entirety.

Select Verses

Vs. 1: Come, children, let us journey; the evening draweth near; our path is full of danger; the desert, dark and drear!  Encourage now your heart to future life to wander, grow strong until up yonder all grief and woe depart.

Vs. 2: We shall not be regretting we chose this pilgrims’ way; we know the One, so faithful, who leads us day by day.  Believe and serve ye Him, each one his face directing, the narrow way selecting, straight to Jerusalem!

Vs. 3: The going out of Babel we never will regret, but hope to grow more perfect, more separated yet.  Nay, children, do not fear; despise the world’s alluring, its wrath and hate enduring; march onward in good cheer.

Vs. 11: We journey in seclusion, despised and quite unknown, unseen mid the confusion of this land, not our own; yet, if the world pays heed, it hears our voices ringing, songs of the homeland singing, for which we yearn indeed.

(1)  http://webstersdictionary1828.com/Dictionary/separate

Christ: God's anointed, the Messiah, King Jesus

Many people have a first and a last name; it is then assumed that Jesus Christ is the full name of our Lord and Redeemer.  In reality, and according to the scriptures, Christ is not a surname.  The word Christ is derived from the greek word christos which means anointed or anointed one (1).  In the Hebrew, the equivalent is mashiach which is where English gets the word messiah.  The label of Christ after Jesus is more about a title than a name.  The word Christ literally means the "anointed one of God".  To be anointed with oil was the typical course of action for the priests and kings of the old covenant.  Prophets were also occasionally anointed but it traditionally occurred to kings, the "anointed ones".  This explains the meaning behind David's respect for King Saul (1st Samuel 24:6).  Saul was considered to be the Lord's anointed.  Accordingly, "The overriding biblical imagery of the word “Messiah” or “Christ” is that of a king chosen by God" (1).  Much of the Old Testament points to a coming King.  Jesus fulfilled the prophecies in dramatic fashion and "confounded the wise" with His message of the New Kingdom.  Yet, during Jesus ministry and even after his resurrection, many still wondered if he would overthrow the Roman Empire and establish an earthly kingdom (or nation) for the believing Jews (Acts 1:6).  

Jesus most definitely came as a suffering savior and as a conquering King in order to bring the New Covenant to full fruition.  The ministry of Jesus brings us the Kingdom.  The message of Jesus is quite political with new commandments and responsibilities (Matthew 5-7).  The Gospel of salvation requires allegiance to the King of the message itself.  Humans should break ties to former allegiances, namely sin and the world, and embrace the new Kingdom under the Lordship and rule of Jesus.  It's no wonder that the first requirement for becoming a follower of the way is repentance (Matthew 3:2).  

When we properly understand Jesus as the long-awaited and anointed Messiah, we look at the word Christ in a new light.  A better way to think of "Jesus Christ" is to think and speak of "Jesus, the King", "Jesus, the Anointed", or "Jesus, the Messiah".  This will properly exalt the Lord to His rightful headship as "ruler of the nations" (Psalm 22:28).

Of course, at the present time, earthly kingdoms do have their place (Romans 13) but it seems that followers of Jesus should consider themselves the "us" and governments the "them".  We have committed to Jesus as our Ruler.  Our total allegiance is required without compromise.  This is quite possible by the hand of God when we understand the Gospel to be less about "getting saved and going to heaven" and more about leaving this present evil world (Galatians 1:4), dying with Messiah in baptism (Romans 6), and walking in the power of the Spirit (Romans 8 and Galatians 5).  Through this, God writes His laws in our hearts, He dwells with us and walks with us after we become His covenant people (2nd Corin. 6:14-18).  Better understanding Christ to be a glorious and powerful title brings fresh perspective to the New Testament.  

Zion's Harp #12 - Lord Jesus, Thou Art King

v.1   Lord Jesus, Thou art King; At God's right hand Thou reignest.  Thy praise the angels sing; Thy servants Thou sustainest.  The world's release didst Thou upon the cross achieve.  Look down in pity now, its wretchedness relieve.

v.2   Thy gospel free and pure send forth to every nation.  Let all perceive Thy light, and welcome Thy salvation.  Raise up Thy people true; let every tongue and clime sound forth Thy glorious praise, exalt Thy name sublime.

v.3   Let every heart and knee in reverence bow before Thee, and in the very dust in humbleness adore Thee.  Let every tongue confess that God His son did raise to be a Savior, King, unto His Father's praise.

v.5   His glorious rule shall be unending and unbroken.  The scepter of His might, of peace shall be the token.  Ye nations shout for joy; His praise let all proclaim.  Let all the earth bring forth the honor due His name.

v.8   Glory to God on high, To Father, Son, and Spirit, whose faithful children all the Kingdom shall inherit. The host of Thine elect, the heavens broad and free praise Thee, great Trinity, through all eternity.  

(1) http://ourrabbijesus.com/articles/what-does-the-word-christ-actually-mean/

What is the Gospel?

Much chatter these days is centered around the concept of "sharing the Gospel".  It would behoove us to first ask the question "what is the Gospel?"  If we are not careful, we can turn the Gospel into something cheap and contrary to the Holy scriptures.  The word "gospel" is first mentioned in the New Testament in Matthew 4:23 and describes Jesus going about Galilee teaching in synagogues and preaching "the gospel of the kingdom" while healing the sick and diseased.  What is the Gospel of the kingdom?  Is it not that the long awaited Messiah has arrived to restore the nation of Israel with a new level of spirituality and vigor?  Is it not that the time of healing has arrived?  Is it not that all tribes and nations should now embrace the Savior, Prophet, and King, Jesus himself?  Is it not a new set of standards, ethics, and laws that will hasten the day when God himself will reign in the new earth?  Is it not the glorious revelation of Yahweh's love that sinners are now beckoned to mercy, experience conversion, given a new heart for obedience, and passionately look forward to the resurrection of the dead?  Is it not the tangible, abundant life which can be the lot of those who embrace Jesus as Lord?

If we don't understand the Gospel by first looking to the Gospels of Christ we may end up with a narrow view of God's perfect plan of salvation.  If we build our theology around the Epistles first, we may inadvertently make Jesus actual teachings complicated, awkward, or worse, obsolete, and we run the risk of turning the Gospel into nothing more than a formula for forensic justification ("getting saved").  Sadly, the Gospel has become compatible with and acceptable to all sorts of carnality and worldly living.  The Gospel of Jesus (found in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) suggest otherwise; the Gospel is actually contrary to the ways of the world and the ways of the earthly kingdoms because it is against the natural disposition of man.

While the 'Roman's Road' does indeed contain scriptural truths and may be helpful in some situations, the Church should not start with it as the fundamental basis for our understanding of the Gospel.  We must start with Jesus and His teachings.  We must start with the good news that the King has arrived and its high time for any and all to save themselves from this wicked generation.  We must understand that Jesus offers us the unimaginable: a love-trust-obey relationship with Almighty God 'without the works of the law'!  We must understand that submission to His rule and doctrine through faith is paramount to being restored to the Father and rescuing mankind from sin.  

Consider the Great Commission described in Matthew 28:16-20:

16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Think about it!  Jesus spoke these words before Paul was converted or any of the epistles were written.  What is the Great Commission compelling us to do?  "Go and tell people they can be saved and go to heaven!"  No...we are to go, teach all nations, baptize them, and teach others to observe all things whatsoever he has commanded us.  In other words, we are to make disciples of Jesus who seek to obey His teachings and live the Gospel Kingdom values.  We are to teach all nations, starting in Jerusalem, what Jesus actually said as recorded in the Gospels.  Embracing the Kingdom vision of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the broader context into which we should share the Good News that Jesus does indeed desire to redeem individuals for His purposes and there is freedom from the temporal and eternal bondage of sin.    

(None of the above is to imply that the rest of the New Testament is sub-par, less inspired, or less valuable than the Gospels.  When we have a properly focused theology on the Kingdom message of Jesus the Acts, Epistles, and Revelation become rich and profitable passages for encouragement, doctrine and instruction.)

The Kingdom of God

Much could be said about the Kingdom message of Jesus, the Messiah.  Arguably, the Kingdom message was the focal point of Jesus' recorded ministry.  Jesus, as the divine son of God, came into the world with a profound message for all, "Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand".  The implications of such a message are far-reaching and utterly poignant.  The perfect plan of salvation for fallen mankind was not simply about how individuals can be 'saved and go to heaven', although it includes that.  

God's plan is to restore earth and humanity (whosoever will) to His ways.  For His commandants are not grievous and are for our well-being (Proverbs 3 for example).  Jesus spends much time explaining this new Kingdom, how to enter into it, and how to remain in it.  The long awaited redemption of Israel was fulfilled in Christ, the Messiah.  Jew and Gentile alike can now experience the blessing of God's righteousness in the fulfilling of the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 15).  The Apostles continued the Gospel, or "good news" that Israel's redemption and long-awaited Lord has arrived with power and authority, ready and willing to establish a people for Himself.  

Not all the Jews realized this was their God acting in dramatic and unanticipated fashion.  In Thessalonica in Acts 17, the unbelieving Jews brought "the brethren" to the Roman rulers of the city and cried saying, "These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also...and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying there is another King, one Jesus". 

A true follower of Christ must firmly grasp that this Kingdom is not of this world nor of a particular nation or land with man-made boundaries.  Rather, the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof (Psalm 24:1).  The Kingdom of God is universal, within the true believer, and has no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.  To be Kingdom-minded is also to be very aware of fallen man's carnal kingdoms, marking them, and striving to give allegiance solely to Jesus, the Lord and King of God's new Kingdom.  For this new Kingdom truly "turns the world upside down".

The Word of God provides the redeemed with guidance and counsel on how to live within earthly kingdoms and yet be fully vested in God's Kingdom.  The principles and applications impact nearly all areas of life.  Whether we reside in an earthly kingdom that is tolerant or full of persecution and hatred, the believer must give total obeisance to God and remain faithful to the covenant blessing of His Kingdom.

Consider what Peter states in 1st Peter 2:7-12 (and really the whole chapter):

"7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 8 and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. 9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: 10 which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation."

Believe and Confess

It is common for Romans 10:9-11 to be read very narrowly, as if it is some sort of formula for instant and unconditional eternal security.

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.  For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed."

True faith from the heart in the Lord Jesus is the requirement for vindication (God in His love stating "you are right") and then confession of our mouth is made unto salvation and the scripture saith "whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed" (v. 11).  The confession of our mouth is a life-long calling.  Hence, Jesus is quite serious when he says he who endures to the end shall be saved (Matthew 24:13) and no man putting his hand to the plough and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62).  The Apostle Paul states, "if we deny Him, He will deny us" (2nd Tim. 2:12).  Yet, if we abide in Christ, obedient to the New Covenant purchased for us with innocent blood, we look forward to the crown awaiting us (2nd Tim. 4:6-8).  

As disciples of Jesus, we must yield ourselves to the Spirit after we have been purged from our former life of sin and rebellion (2nd Peter 1:9) and therein bear much fruit that the Father may be glorified (John 15:8).  

A mere profession of faith is no faith at all unless accompanied by the power of the Spirit to mortify the deeds of the flesh and overcome sin, Satan, and the world.  It is far too easy to claim the title of a Christian in this day and time, deceiving oneself that the Gospel is more like a permanent vaccine against hell than a glorious message of individual and corporate redemption.

Zion's Harp #175 - The Faith of the Fathers

v.1   Spirit by whose operation faith and holiness proceed, source of heavenly conversation, strength in weakness, help in need; Spirit, by whose inspiration Prophets and Apostles spake; martyrs bled and tribulation saints endured for Jesus' sake.

v. 4   Give us Joseph's chaste behavior when the world with crafty wiles seeks to draw us from the Savior to herself with frowns or smiles. Give us grace and strength for shunning this ensnaring Potiphar, wisdom to elude her cunning, strength her open hate to bear. 

v6.   Arm us with Thy true discernment as Elijah, in these days when men, led by superstition, to false idols altars raise. Let us shun a mere profession common in our days and land, witnessing a good profession, even if alone we stand.

Jesus Christ says "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." (John 4:23)

Much more then,...

The glorious plan of salvation for mankind involves two interwoven truths.  First, man is incapable of earning forgiveness from God because of a fallen, sinful nature.  The death and shedding of Christ's pure blood become the basis for anyone who gladly receives the Gospel.  The second truth, which cannot be separated from the first, is that the new believer is given full access to God's grace and a new life in Christ Jesus through His advocacy and intercession.  After reconciliation by the blood of our Savior, God's children are given a new nature and actually live in Christ, separated unto God's Kingdom for His purposes and pleasure.

Romans 5:1-11

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

"Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.  And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement."

Commenting on Philippians 3:10, S.H. Froehlich states, "To be found in Christ is the same as being found in the book of life.  But on that day no one can be found in Christ who here and now has not become a new creature in Christ, to keep God's Law, and also to walk as Christ did when he was on earth." 

By God's grace through Christ, with access to resurrection power, the called of God can remain faithful unto their end.  It is only possible by the two inseparable truths of God's merciful forgiveness through Christ's sacrifice and establishing a new life with the very much alive Redeemer.