circumcision justified by faith

Romans 3:30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

which shall justify the circumcision 'by faith'

Introduction

The Hall of Fame chapter Hebrews 11, is a positive presentation of those who lived ‘by faith’ under the Old Testament. Biblical history testifies of the fact that man failed miserably in trying to keep up with their side of the deal within a ‘by faith’ relationship to their Creator. Adam was expelled from the garden, the world was drowned out by a flood and a covenanted nation, in which God took as a wife, divorced.

This chapter focuses on what justification ‘by faith’, looked like from the time of the implementation of circumcision, on through when God ceased in justifying the circumcision via ‘by faith’, to 'through faith'.

First Thoughts

Eternal Judgement and Final Destiny

A subject needs be brought to the forefront in this discussion before moving on. One’s final judgement and eternal destiny is in God’s hands, not ours. Though not professing to understand it all, one thing clear in the scripture is that God, from the very beginning, provided a way out. Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins. A trail of blood can be traced from the fall of man throughout the scripture. Before Noah offered sacrifices on this side of the flood, he was offering sacrifices on the other side. Before Abraham is found offering sacrifices between Genesis 12 and 15, he was offering sacrifices prior. It will soon be demonstrated that before blood sacrifices were incorporated under the Mosaic Covenant, they already existed in the lives of those living ‘by faith’.

The pivotal issue, to one’s eternal judgement and destiny, is whether or not one dies ‘in’ his sins or transgressions. Admittedly, it is hard at times, when reading the scripture, in determining if one died 'because' of his sin or died dying 'in' his sins. We are not God determining judgment and thankfully so…

What will be clearly demonstrated, in this chapter, on God justifying the circumcision ‘by faith’, is consequences surrounding disobedience to God’s commandments.

Two Old Testament saints will be looked at before turning to those living under the Mosaic Covenant.

Old Testament Saints Living By Faith

Abraham

The Covenant of Circumcision

Abraham lived ‘by faith’ before the LORD and was rewarded for it.

Nehemiah 9:7-8 Thou art the LORD the God, who didst choose Abram, and broughtest him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gavest him the name of Abraham; And foundest his heart faithful before thee, and madest a covenant with him to give the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Girgashites, to give it, I say, to his seed, and hast performed thy words; for thou art righteous:

Thou art the LORD the God, who didst choose Abram
And foundest his heart faithful before thee
and hast performed thy words; for thou art righteous

Through God’s foreknowledge, in establishing a nation to rise above all nations, a mark was given to distinguish this nation from other nations; thus enters circumcision.

Genesis 17:1-14 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. 2 And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly. 3 And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him, saying, 4 As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou shalt be a father of many nations. 5 Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee. 6 And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will make nations of thee, and kings shall come out of thee. 7 And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. 8 And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God. 9 And God said unto Abraham, Thou shalt keep my covenant therefore, thou, and thy seed after thee in their generations. 10 This is my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised. 11 And ye shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of the covenant betwixt me and you. 12 And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed. 13 He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant. 14 And the uncircumcised man child whose flesh of his foreskin is not circumcised, that soul shall be cut off from his people; he hath broken my covenant.

I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant
I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession
This is my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised
He that is born in thy house, and he that is bought with thy money, must needs be circumcised: and my covenant shall be in your flesh for an everlasting covenant
the uncircumcised man child whose flesh of his foreskin is not circumcised, that soul shall be cut off from his people; he hath broken my covenant

Five important notes are to be taken from above:

This covenant was established between the LORD and Abraham and Abraham’s seed for an everlasting covenant.
Components, within this covenant, included the making of nations and kings, and all the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession.
Inclusion in this covenant demanded physical circumcision.
Circumcision wasn’t restricted just to Abraham’s physical seed, but to those also that would come under his household.
The soul, not in subjection to circumcision, would be cut off from Abraham’s people.

The reader and student of the scriptures, must be aware of the fact that before Moses’ Law, commandments were already in place that dictated, to some degree, how man should live.

Genesis 26:4-5 And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; 5 Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.

Because that Abraham obeyed my voice
and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws

Abraham not only obeyed God’s voice, but kept God’s charge, commandments, statutes and laws. The implication here is that those outside, of this covenanted people, wouldn’t be obeying such commandments as sacrifices or offerings for sins.

Circumcision adds another separating element, to a sequence of separating events, from the foundation of the world. Adam, Cain, the flood and now... circumcision. Just as simple instruction was given to Adam, not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, so simple instruction was given in the covenant of circumcision. Faithful obedience determined outcome for each individual as to whether a soul would be cut off from Abraham’s people.

There’s probably a little over 400 years between Abraham and the establishment of the Mosaic Covenant with Abraham’s seed.

Job

Although not listed in the Hall of Fame faith chapter of Hebrews 11, Job cannot be left out of this discussion of being justified ‘by faith’. A strong biblical case can be found putting the life of Job sometime between Abraham and Moses. Evidence, showing more likely towards Moses, insertion of Job is here at this juncture in time, though applicable regardless of when he lived.

Job 1:1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.

that man was perfect and upright
and one that feared God
and eschewed evil

Job 1:5 And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually.

Job sent and sanctified them
offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all
for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts
Thus did Job continually

Job 1:6-8 Now there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan came also among them. And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it. And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?

there is none like him in the earth
a perfect and an upright man
one that feareth God, and escheweth evil

Before the priesthood was established, within the nation of Israel, fathers as head of households, served in that function. It can’t be overstressed that Job’s standing and state, before the LORD, was based on Job’s faithful obedience to principles established and actions taken in discerning between good and evil.

There is a false narrative, floating around, that the key discernment between the rejection of Cain’s sacrifice and acceptance of Abel’s sacrifice, was that of lack of ‘faith’, on Cain’s behalf. In other words, if Cain had ‘faith’, his offering, of the fruit of the ground, would have been accepted. Not only does this contradict scripture, but at same time confuses the definition of ‘faith’, in ‘by faith’.

Abel, in believing God, was faithful in offering a more excellent sacrifice than Cain by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts. It can’t be any clearer! In fact, Cain was given option to ‘do well’, in bringing a proper offering to the door. It is my conviction that the ‘door’ was in proximity to the gates in which Cherubims were posted (Gen 3:24) to thwart any effort in accessing the tree of life after having committed sin.

Heb 11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain
by which he obtained witness that he was righteous
God testifying of his gifts:

This false notion, that ‘faith’ and not proper sacrifice, was Cain’s hang-up can quickly be challenged and dismissed in asking the following question. What do you suppose would have been the result with Job’s friends, if as Cain, had brought the fruit of the ground?

Job 42:7-9 And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath. Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job. So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the LORD commanded them: the LORD also accepted Job.

the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends
Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering
and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept

After Job’s testing and trials, it was Job’s friends who were in hot water and the LORD had Job intercede on their behalf.

Bullocks and rams or potatoes and corn?

Case dismissed?

Covenant of Circumcision B

Job offering scarifices

one's final destiny

The Exodus of the Circumcision

Significant Events of the Exodus

Several significant events transpired, around the exodus of Israel from Egypt and crossing of the Red Sea under, the leadership of Moses, that needs to be briefly mentioned before turning attention to exactly how one was justified under the law.

First. A nation was baptized unto Moses, in the cloud and in the sea, identifying a household to its head (1Co 10:1-2; Heb 3:2-5). This was a dry baptism of separation and identification, paralleling the Spirit baptism that Paul speaks of in Romans 6, identifying the believer in Christ (Rom 6:1-4). This dry baptism was caused by the LORD at instruction given to Moses to stretch out his hand (Ex 14:21-31).

Second. A verbal exchange of agreement, with Moses acting as a mediator, was made between the LORD and Abraham’s covenanted seed Israel (Ex 19:1-9). It can easily be argued and proved that certain principals and/or commandments were already established, from the foundation of the world, that discerned between good and evil or between right and wrong. This verbal agreement, to obey the voice of the LORD, brought a focus of lively commandments, to be given to Abraham’s seed for a pavement of righteousness, before the LORD’s leading to and then abiding in the covenanted land (Acts 7:38; Dt 6:24-25).

Third. A physical baptism with water, that is accredited to Moses (Ex 19:10-14; Jn 1:25; 4:1-2), was performed by the residents of this newly formed covenanted people. Moses was to sanctify the ‘people’, having them wash their clothes. It was an initial step in the sanctifying process before receiving further instructions from the LORD (Ex 19:15-25). More on this further along in this chapter.

Exodus 19:10 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes,

Go unto the people
and sanctify them
let them wash their clothes

What Changed Under the Mosaic Covenant?

Purposes of the Mosaic Covenant

From Israel’s perspective, what changed in agreement to the Mosaic Covenant? In one respect, absolutely nothing changed in the ‘by faith’ relationship principal, that God established from the very beginning of mankind. As stated on the Home page, as well as elsewhere within the Theme Study, under the Old Testament a just man was one who was righteous before the LORD and imputed righteousness was based on faithful obedience.

What did change under the Mosaic Covenant? Righteous principles and commandments that existed, from the very beginning of time and passed on down from Adam to Noah and then from Noah to now, were built upon. Two general roles of the Mosaic Covenant will be pointed out here. One function was to clearly define sin and transgressions against a righteous God. The other purpose was that in obedience Israel could be discerned from other nations.

Galatians 3:19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

Wherefore then serveth the law?
It was added because of transgressions

Romans 3:20 … for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

Leviticus 18:3-5 After the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do: and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do: neither shall ye walk in their ordinances. 4 Ye shall do my judgments, and keep mine ordinances, to walk therein: I am the LORD your God. 5 Ye shall therefore keep my statutes, and my judgments: which if a man do, he shall live in them: I am the LORD.

After the doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do
and after the doings of the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do: neither shall ye walk in their ordinances
Ye shall do my judgments, and keep mine ordinances, to walk therein: I am the LORD your God
which if a man do, he shall live in them: I am the LORD

The Mosaic Covenant was truly a covenant for righteousness as detailed in chapters titled, the "righteousness of God with the law" and "righteousness which is of the law". These subjects are vital to this chapter and segment. Though clearly laid out within the scripture, there is much confusion regarding the various goals of the law. As the Abrahamic Covenant covenanted for a seed and land, this Mosaic Covenant covenanted for this seed to remain in the promised land.

Deuteronomy 6:24-25 And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day. 25 And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.

the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes
to fear the LORD our God
And it shall be our righteousness
if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God

Justification Under the Mosaic Covenant

The Individual Under Law

Justification, under the Mosaic Covenant, has to be looked at from both national and individual perspectives. The focus here is on the individual, but the obvious tie to the national will clearly be seen as it comes into play.

There are several essential passages to be looked at in defining justification ‘by faith’, for an individual under the Mosaic Covenant.

Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

But without faith it is impossible to please him
for he that cometh to God must believe that he is
and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him

Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

but the just shall live by his faith

His Faith (Habakkuk 2:4)

It cannot be overstated the importance of the expression ‘his faith’, in Habakkuk 2:4, in which Paul references in Romans and Galatians, intentionally leaving out the pronoun ‘his’ (Rom 1:17; Gal 3:11). In understanding, God justifying the circumcision ‘by faith’ (Rom 3:30), it must to be interpreted in the light of ‘his faith’, as recorded in Habakkuk 2:4!

‘His faith’ (Hab 2:4) equates to the ‘faith’, in which without it is impossible to please him in ‘diligently seeking him’ (Heb 11:6). In other words, ‘his faith’ speaks to one’s faithfulness as seen in the expression ‘diligently seeking him’. Obviously, the flip side of this coin is the faithful God of reward.

The following passages will help further in defining a ‘just’ man, under the law, from the standpoint of Hebrews 11:6 and Habakkuk 2:4:

Isaiah 26:7 The way of the just is uprightness: thou, most upright, dost weigh the path of the just.

Ezekiel 18:5 But if a man be just, and do that which is lawful and right,

Ezekiel 18:9 Hath walked in my statutes, and hath kept my judgments, to deal truly; he is just, he shall surely live, saith the Lord GOD.

Hosea 14:9 Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.

Proverbs 4:18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

Proverbs 20:7 The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.

Proverbs 24:16 For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.

Proverbs 29:27 An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.

Ecclesiastes 7:15 All things have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just man that perisheth in his righteousness, and there is a wicked man that prolongeth his life in his wickedness.

Ecclesiastes 7:20 For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.

Ecclesiastes 8:14 There is a vanity which is done upon the earth; that there be just men, unto whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked; again, there be wicked men, to whom it happeneth according to the work of the righteous: I said that this also is vanity.

His faith B

Consequences of Sins and Transgression Under Law

The Soul that Transgresses

In general, Israel is usually considered on a collective basis unless focusing on particular individuals of success or failure. As the law was the provision of God for the righteousness of a nation, obviously individual righteousness was based on obedience to same law. Obedience or disobedience, to the law, determined the just from the unjust, the righteous from the unrighteous, and good from evil.

Before dealing specifically with consequences of certain sins, the following chart illustrates the judgement of various transgressions while living under law.

Consequences of sin under law

Justification under law B

COMMANDMENTS & RESULTS IN FAILURE TO OBSERVE

Gen 17:1-13 circumcision (basis of contention in Acts 15)... that soul shall be cut off from his people–v14

Ex 12:14-18 memorial of unleavened bread (passover)... even that soul shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he be a stranger, or born in the land–v19

Ex 28:40-42 garments of the high priest & priests... that they bear not iniquity, and die–v43

Ex 30:17-20 washing at the brass laver... that they die not–v21

Ex 30:22-32 oil of holy ointment... shall even be cut off from his people–v33

Ex 30:34-37 pure & holy perfume... shall even be cut off from his people–v38

Ex 31:12-17 sabbath... every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death:...that soul shall be cut off from among his People...he shall surely be put to death–vv14, 15

Lev 5:1 hearing the voice of swearing... if he do not utter it, then he shall bear his iniquity–v1

Lev 5:2 touching any unclean thing... he also shall be unclean, and guilty–v2

Lev 5:3 touching the uncleanness of man... when he knoweth of it, then he shall be guilty–v3

Lev 5:4 pronouncing with an oath... when he knoweth of it, then he shall be guilty–v4

Lev 5:14-19 sinning through ignorance... though he wist it not, yet is he guilty, and shall bear his iniquity–v17

Lev 7:18-27 improper eating of the sacrifice... the soul that eateth of it shall bear his iniquity–v18...that soul shall be cut off from his People–vv20, 21, 25, 27

Lev 11:1-47 law of the beasts, & fowl, & every living creature–v46... shall be unclean–vv24, 31, 39

Lev 12-15:33 uncleanness–15:31-33... that they die not in their uncleanness–v31

Lev 17:1-11 place of the blood offering... blood shall be imputed unto that man;...that man shall be cut off from among his people–vv4, 9

Lev 17:10 eating of blood... will cut him off from among his People–v10

Lev 17:15 washing... But if he wash them not, nor bath his flesh; then he shall bear his iniquity–v16

Lev 18:6-21 uncovering nakedness–19 adultery–20;... For whosoever shall commit any of these abominations, even the souls seed passing through thefire to Molech–21 that commit them shall be cut off from among their People–v29

Lev 19:5-7 eating of the peace offering... that soul shall be cut off from among his People–v8

Lev 20:6, 27 familiar spirits & wizards... will cut him off from among his People–vv6, 27

Lev 20:9 cursing father or mother... shall be surely put to death...his blood shall be upon him–v9

Lev 22:1-9 washing... that soul shall be cut off from My presence–v3 lest they bear sin for it, and die therefore–v9

Lev 23:23-32 day of atonement... he shall be cut off from among his People–v29 the same soul will I destroy from among his People–v30

Num 9:13 passover... even the same soul shall be cut off from among his People...that man shall bear his sin–v13

Num 15:30 presumptuous sins... that soul shall be cut off from among his People–v30 that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him–v31

Num 18:22, 23 unlawful approach to the tabernacle... lest they bear sin and die–v22

Num 19:1-22 water of separation... that soul shall be cut off from Israel–v13 that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation–v20

Ez 3:17-21 warning to the wicked & righteous... and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul–v19 When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness... he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered–v20

Ez 14:1-23 warning to the house of Israel & the stranger... Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness–v14

Ez 18:1-32 warning to the soul that sinneth... The soul that sinneth, it shall die...the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him–v20

Ez 33:7-20 warning to the children of the People... The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth–v12

Cut Off From Among His People

The Doers of the Law Shall Be Justified

There has been some documentation that there are 613 laws recorded in the OT. Just as curses and separation were demonstrated in the lives of Adam, Cain, the pre-flood world, the uncircumcised, and Israel herself, those individuals who were disobedient under the law were also subject to some severe consequences.

A warning that a soul would be cut off from among his people or off from the congregation of Israel is found 12 times (Ex 12:15, 19; Ex 31:14; Le 7:20-21, 27; Le 19:8; Le 22:3; Nu 9:13; Nu 15:30; Nu 19:13, 20).
Bearing one’s iniquity is found 21 times (Ex 28:38, 43; Le 5:1, 17; Le 7:18; Le 10:17; Le 17:16; Le 19:8; Le 20:17, 19; Le 22:16; Nu 5:31; Nu 18:1, 23; Nu 30:15).
Being put to death is found some 40 times (Ex 19:12; Ex 21:12, 15-17, 29; Ex 22:19; Ex 31:14-15; Ex 35:2; Le 19:20; Le 20:2, 9-13, 15-16, 27; Le 24:16-17, 21; Le 27:29; Nu 1:51; Nu 3:10, 38; Nu 15:35; Nu 18:7; Nu 35:16-18, 21, 30-31; De 13:5, 9; De 17:6-7; De 21:22; De 24:16).
Being found guilty is found 9 times (Le 4:13, 22, 27; Le 5:2-5, 17; Le 6:4; Nu 5:6; Nu 35:27, 31).

Individuals were personally responsible for their sin. God established various sin and trespass offerings that upon completion of the acceptable sacrifice the trespasser was declared ‘forgiven’ by the priest… and the priest shall make an atonement for him as concerning his sin, and it shall be forgiven him. (Le 4:26, 31, 35; Le 5:10, 13, 16, 18; Le 6:7; Le 19:22).

Leviticus 4:26 And he shall burn all his fat upon the altar, as the fat of the sacrifice of peace offerings: and the priest shall make an atonement for him as concerning his sin, and it shall be forgiven him.

and the priest shall make an atonement for him as concerning his sin
and it shall be forgiven him

However, there were certain sins, such as murder and adultery, where no provision was made for atonement or forgiveness and therefore, not justified under the law of Moses; in fact, thus separated from Israel!

Acts 13:39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.

by him all that believe are justified from all things
from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses

Romans 2:13 For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

For not the hearers of the law are just before God
but the doers of the law shall be justified

By means of contrast, can there be any clearer scripture, stated by Paul, showing that the law of Moses had much to do with one’s justification? Remember, in a ‘by faith’ relationship to God, faithful obedience was only half of the equation. The other half of the equation was obedience to someone and something!

Eternal Security Under the Old Testament?

Help in Understanding the Gospels & Acts

It must be understood that there was no ‘eternal security’, within Israel under law! There was only dire consequences for those excommunicated, from the congregation of Israel, before the Day of Atonement. In looking back, a beautiful type of Christ is seen in the scapegoat and in the bullock for the sin offering. However, daily sacrifices preceding the Day of Atonement were a living reality in how God dealt with sins. During the year, the Jew and stranger were held accountable for personal sins, which would then be dealt with, as a whole, on the Day of Atonement.

This is a very important concept to be understood while studying the Gospels and Acts! The repentant Jew’s sins, where dealt with on individual bases, to be followed later by Israel as a whole.

Acts 2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

Therefore let all the house of Israel know...

Acts 3:19-23 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; 20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: 21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. 22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out
when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord
And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you

Acts 3:26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

Unto you first God
having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you
in turning away every one of you from his iniquities

The New Covenant With Israel

Though many Israelites did repent during the ministries of John the Baptist, Jesus and His disciple’s pre-cross ministry and then the Apostle’s post-cross ministry, Israel as a nation, rejected its Messiah. Israel has been temporarily put aside, thus delaying Christ’s return until future establishment of the New Covenant (Heb 8:10-12).

Hebrews 8:10-12 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: 11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. 12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.

this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people
they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest
I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more

It is absurd to believe that Hebrews 8:10-12 has been fulfilled or is being fulfilled today! Those, not holding this passage to a later fulfillment, in believing application is for today, haven’t been around Christians or gone to a local church lately and is blind to the surroundings of the world in which we live in. Teaching is a necessity today and every man’s neighbor and brother doesn’t know the Lord! This condition, described of Israel, will only be found after the return of Christ when God picks up where He left off with Israel in the book of Acts. The Lord Jesus Christ, along with the 12 Apostles, will then rule with a rod of Iron during the Millennium (Rev 19:15; Mt 19:28).

Accomplishments on the Day of Atonement

Bearing in mind penalties, regarding disobeying the law, one in particular of that in being cut off from the congregation, consider the scope and accomplishment on the Day of Atonement as seen in the escape goat and sin offering.

Leviticus 16:20-30 And when he hath made an end of reconciling the holy place, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and the altar, he shall bring the live goat: 21 And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat, and shall send him away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness: 22 And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited: and he shall let go the goat in the wilderness. 23 And Aaron shall come into the tabernacle of the congregation, and shall put off the linen garments, which he put on when he went into the holy place, and shall leave them there: 24 And he shall wash his flesh with water in the holy place, and put on his garments, and come forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for himself, and for the people. 25 And the fat of the sin offering shall he burn upon the altar. 26 And he that let go the goat for the scapegoat shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in water, and afterward come into the camp. 27 And the bullock for the sin offering, and the goat for the sin offering, whose blood was brought in to make atonement in the holy place, shall one carry forth without the camp; and they shall burn in the fire their skins, and their flesh, and their dung. 28 And he that burneth them shall wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in water, and afterward he shall come into the camp. 29 And this shall be a statute for ever unto you: that in the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, ye shall afflict your souls, and do no work at all, whether it be one of your own country, or a stranger that sojourneth among you: 30 For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the LORD.

Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them upon the head of the goat...
And the goat shall bear upon him all their iniquities unto a land not inhabited
And he shall wash his flesh with water in the holy place, and put on his garments, and come forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for himself, and for the people
For on that day shall the priest make an atonement for you, to cleanse you, that ye may be clean from all your sins before the LORD

Leviticus 16:34 And this shall be an everlasting statute unto you, to make an atonement for the children of Israel for all their sins once a year. And he did as the LORD commanded Moses.

And this shall be an everlasting statute unto you, to make an atonement for the children of Israel for all their sins once a year

From our advantage point, we fully understand the theme and thread, found within John’s writings, concerning the sacrifice and blood of Christ, the Lamb of God (Joh 1:29,36; Re 5:6,8,12-13; Re 6:1,16; Re 7:9-10,14,17; Re 12:11; Re 13:8,11; Re 14:1,4,10; Re 15:3; Re 17:14; Re 19:7,9; Re 21:9,14,22-23,27; Re 22:1,3). The death, burial and resurrection, were components of Paul’s gospel, in preaching Christ according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the foundation of the world (Rom 16:25-26). It was not until after the resurrection that Christ explained to His disciples that His death was in fulfillment of the Law of Moses, prophets and psalms (Lk 24:44-46), which before was ‘hid’ unto them (Lk 9:45; 18:34). Not until after Christ’s earthly ministry did Peter declare such truth (Ac 8:32; 1Pe 1:19).

These things are pointed out here to clearly qualify that God’s dealing with sin, under the Old Testament, was with the blood of bulls and goats. Though wonderful typologies point to a future fulfillment, in the sacrificial offering of Christ, any and all notions that in the offering of blood then, was done so with full understanding of such, is not scripturally supported!

Differences Between the Blood Sacrifices

The author of Hebrews, in writing to Jewish believers saved during the Act’s period (Acts 1:8; Heb 6:4-5), shows precisely not only the difference between the blood of bulls and goats, to that of the blood of Christ, but also the symbolism between the old and new testaments.

difference in blood sacrifices

The Blood of Bulls and Goats

Hebrews 9:13 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:

Hebrews 9:18-23 Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. 19 For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, 20 Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. 21 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. 22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. 23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these;…

Hebrews 10:1-4 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. 2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. 3 But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year. 4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.

Hebrews 10:11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:

The Blood of Christ

Hebrews 9:12 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.

Hebrews 9:14-17 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? 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. 16 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. 17 For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.

Hebrews 9:23-26 … but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 25 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; 26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.

Hebrews 10:5-10 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me: 6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure. 7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. 8 Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; 9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. 10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

Hebrews 10:12-18 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. 15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, 16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. 18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.

Accomplishments of Blood Under the Old Testament

What could and/or couldn’t the shedding of blood accomplish under the Old Testament?

Blood was used in the purging of most ‘all’ things under the law. It was used in the ceremonial cleansing and sanctifying, to the purifying of the flesh, in making atonement for the sins of both the priests and people. Without the shedding of blood there was no remission (forgiveness) of sins. A priest could only declare one clean and forgiven after proper ceremony.

For all that God established, that the shedding of the blood of bulls and goats could do, it had its limitations. Unlike the eternal aspect of the Lamb of God, slain from the foundation of the world to offer Himself once in putting away sin, the blood of bulls and goats only purged sins, within a time frame of when transgressed. This is well illustrated in Job offering sacrifices continually for his household (Job 1:5), followed by offerings from his friends for their transgressions (Job 42:1-9).

Focusing in on justification ‘by faith’ and the imputation of righteousness under the Old Testament, let it be clear that neither Abel or Israelites under Moses’ Law, got ‘saved’ confessing with their mouth the Lord Jesus believing in their hearts that God would raise him from the dead (Rom 10:9-10), while offering a blood sacrifice, accrediting it to a prophesied ‘Lamb of God’. We cannot and must not confuse what we understand today, with what the Old Testament saint understood then!

Serious are the implications of those whose transgressions led to death or expulsion from the congregation of Israel. Again, as expressed in the beginning of this chapter, it is hard at times in determining if one died 'because' of his sin or died dying 'in' his sins. Some transgressions could be atoned for while others not.

It cannot be expressed enough that when dealing with the circumcision, being justified ‘by faith’, to taken into account is obedience to the law on both national and individual basis, with consequences to each. Just as a nation’s righteousness was measured in proportion to its obedience, so was the righteousness of individuals measured in proportion to their obedience.

Imputation of Righteousness

Keeping in mind that the imputation of righteousness was a living experience, consider the following passages.

Deuteronomy 24:13 In any case thou shalt deliver him the pledge again when the sun goeth down, that he may sleep in his own raiment, and bless thee: and it shall be righteousness unto thee before the LORD thy God.

1 Samuel 26:23 The LORD render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness: for the LORD delivered thee into my hand to day, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed.

2 Samuel 22:21 The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness: according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me.

2 Samuel 22:25 Therefore the LORD hath recompensed me according to my righteousness; according to my cleanness in his eye sight.

1 Kings 8:32 Then hear thou in heaven, and do, and judge thy servants, condemning the wicked, to bring his way upon his head; and justifying the righteous, to give him according to his righteousness.

Psalms 7:8 The LORD shall judge the people: judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, and according to mine integrity that is in me.

Psalms 15:1-2 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? 2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.

Psalms 106:30-31 Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment: and so the plague was stayed. 31 And that was counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.

Proverbs 11:6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.

Israel's Warning

The Watchman

The Wicked and Righteous Warned

Ezekiel’s commentary to Israel, as a watchman under the Babylon captivity, well drives home this point regarding personal righteousness. In the passage that follows it needs to be pointed out and stressed that the ‘wicked’, the LORD is addressing, aren’t the Babylonians, but Israelites!

Ezekiel 3:16-19 And it came to pass at the end of seven days, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, 17 Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. 18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. 19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul.

I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel
When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand
Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul

... the same wicked man shall die 'in' his iniquity

... he shall die 'in' his iniquity

The following passages of warning are to both the ‘righteous’ and ‘wicked’ amongst Israel.

Ezekiel 3:20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand.

When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity
he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand

... he shall die 'in' his sin

Ezekiel 14:14 Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord GOD.

they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness

Ezekiel 14:20 Though Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, as I live, saith the Lord GOD, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness.

they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness

Ezekiel 18:19-27 Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live. 20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. 21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. 23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? 24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die. 25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal? 26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die. 27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.

The soul that sinneth, it shall die
The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son
the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him
But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. 22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him
But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die
When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die
when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive

... 'in' his trespass that he hath trespassed, and 'in' his sin that he hath sinned, 'in' them shall he die

Ezekiel 33:12-19 Therefore, thou son of man, say unto the children of thy people, The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth. 13 When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it. 14 Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right; 15 If the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die. 16 None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely live. 17 Yet the children of thy people say, The way of the Lord is not equal: but as for them, their way is not equal. 18 When the righteous turneth from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, he shall even die thereby. 19 But if the wicked turn from his wickedness, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall live thereby.

The righteousness of the righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression
as for the wickedness of the wicked, he shall not fall thereby in the day that he turneth from his wickedness
neither shall the righteous be able to live for his righteousness in the day that he sinneth
When I shall say to the righteous, that he shall surely live; if he trust to his own righteousness, and commit iniquity, all his righteousnesses shall not be remembered; but for his iniquity that he hath committed, he shall die for it
Again, when I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he turn from his sin, and do that which is lawful and right; 15 If the wicked restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he shall surely live, he shall not die. 16 None of his sins that he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely live

Two things need to be taken from the above Ezekiel passages. First, is the association between personal righteousness and obedience or disobedience to the law, that distinguished between the righteous and wicked. Second, the context is within the construction of a ‘by faith’ relationship, which is to be held in contrast with ‘through faith’ today.

Life Illustration: A conversation, involving a Mennonite man, turned to the question of the eternal security of the believer. Instruction was given to speak with the wife, who I supposed was the authority in this subject. Most of the scripture she referenced were in Ezekiel. In other words, debate concerning the ‘eternal security’, of the believer for today, was argued against, by this wife, from within a ‘by faith’ context for justification.

From Malachi to Matthew

From the Mosaic Law to the Mosaic Law

As pages are turned from Malachi to the Gospels, from that portion of our bibles labeled the Old Testament, to that which is labeled the New Testament, many believe an immediate transition is made from the Old Covenant to a New Covenant. The reality is that the Mosaic Law was still in play, as testified in the lives of Zacharias and is wife.

Luke 1:5-6 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

they were both righteous before God
walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless

Also, now with better understanding of OT righteousness, the words of Jesus to his disciples and the multitudes make sense and fall into place.

Matthew 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

For I say unto you
That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees
ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven

Matthew 23:1-3 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, 2 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: 3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat
All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do
but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not

The Watchman

Justification of the Circumcision Under the Kingdom Gospel

The Kingdom Gospel's Outreach

The Multitudes in the Regions About

More often than not, A HUGE mistake is made in presentation of the Gospels and book of Acts. One could easily be led to believe that John the Baptist, Jesus and His disciples, were simply running around trying to get people saved, so that when they died they would go to heaven. Nothing could be further from the truth! The message and theme, behind the ministries of John the Baptist, Jesus and His disciples pre & post-cross ministries, was clear and simple… the kingdom of heaven was at hand.

Heaven’s appointed king, to reign on this earth in fulfillment of the Davidic covenant had arrived on the scene, in fulfillment of prophecy. Fulfillment of the Abrahamic and New covenants were all now held in the balance determined by either Israel’s acceptance or rejection.

The attraction, of John the Baptist’s, Jesus’ and His disciple’s ministries, stretched throughout the region drawing multitudes in proclaiming the prophesied kingdom of heaven at hand. Though an eternal perspective, can come into play, the multitudes weren’t responding to a simple message of salvation… “If you were to die today, where would you spend eternity?”

Matthew 3:5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan,

Matthew 4:25 And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.

Mark 1:5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

Luke 3:7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

Matthew 5:1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:

Matthew 8:1 When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.

Matthew 21:9 And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.

Matthew 21:11 And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.

As discussed, within several chapters of this Theme Study, the cross was a stumbling block in Israel’s way to obtaining the re-establishment of the kingdom into her hands. Afterwards, the kingdom gospel picked up where it left off, in turning Jews back to their now resurrected Messiah, awaiting at the right hand of the Father.

All That Are Afar Off

Herein lies another critical mistake, made by many preachers, teachers and commentators. The outreach remains on the Jew and from the perspective of the Apostles, based on prophecy and commission, Gentiles didn’t come into play until after the return of Christ and establishment of the kingdom! How often have I seen Acts 2:39, taken to imply, that the Gentile was in the Apostle's sights in these instructions given by the Lord Jesus... "For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." Acts 2:39

All Afar Off Acts 2:39 A

unto all Israel

that are near

and that are far off

Deuteronomy 29:13-15 That he may establish thee to day for a people unto himself, and that he may be unto thee a God, as he hath said unto thee, and as he hath sworn unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. 14 Neither with you only do I make this covenant and this oath; 15 But with him that standeth here with us this day before the LORD our God, and also with him that is not here with us this day:

Neither with you only do I make this covenant and this oath;
But with him that standeth here with us this day before the LORD our God
and also with him that is not here with us this day

Ezekiel 11:16-17 Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they shall come. 17 Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even gather you from the people, and assemble you out of the countries where ye have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel.

I will even gather you from the people
and assemble you out of the countries where ye have been scattered
and I will give you the land of Israel

Daniel 9:7 O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day; to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, that are near, and that are far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they have trespassed against thee.

to the men of Judah
and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem
and unto all Israel, that are near
and that are far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them

For the promise is unto you

and to your children

and to all that are afar off

Acts 2:5-11 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? 9 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.

And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven

Acts 2:36-40 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. 37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.

Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly
For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off

Acts 11:19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only

An Unfortunate Interpretation

The critical mistake being made is in interpreting ‘all that are afar off’, as being Gentiles! This common mistake in interpretation makes it impossible to follow, with understanding, the progression of the kingdom gospel from a prophetic perspective. The professing church marches along today thinking they’re picking up where the 12 Apostles left off in trying to fulfill the great commission, in reaching ‘all that are afar off’, in this context.

After the cross, the focus of the Apostles and the evangelism generated thereby, was intentional towards the Jew with anticipation of Israel’s repentance and return of Christ to establish the kingdom. It would be then that Israel would recognize her commission to Gentiles.

It wasn’t until Paul that there was full recognition that Christ came to be a ransom for all to be testified in due time via preaching committed unto him.

1 Timothy 2:5-7 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 7 Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time
Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle
a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity

First Question on the Apostle's Mind

So much confusion would be eliminated, from any subject within the scriptures, if considered from the perspective of the audience and that most certainly applies here. When would the kingdom of heaven, be restored again to Israel, is the first question recorded in Acts.

Acts 1:6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

From the Apostles' perspective, based on both prophecy and personal instruction from Jesus, here’s the progression of the restoration of the kingdom, back to Israel, to once again being a priesthood among the nations (1Pet 2:912). There was a recalculating of events after the resurrection.

1. Continuation of the kingdom gospel of repentance and baptism for remission of sins, to the Jew among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem and progressing through Judaea, Samaria and the uttermost part of the earth (Lk 24:47; Acts 1:8).

2. Jesus’ Baptism of Israel with the Holy Ghost (Mt 3:11-12); Lk 24:49; Acts 1:4-5; Acts 2:38).

3. Jesus’ Baptism of Israel with fire in judgement after the tribulation period (Mt 3:11-12).

4. Jesus’ return before the Apostles having gone over all the cities of Israel (Mt 10:21-23; Acts 3:19-20).

5. Sitting on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel in fulfillment and establishment of the Abrahamic, Davidic and New covenants to Israel (Mt 19:28; Heb 8:8-13).

6. Outreach discipleship, teaching all nations during the Millennium reign of Christ (Mt 28:19-20; Rev 20:1-6); fulfillment of the so-called ‘great commission’.

In spite of rule with a ‘rod of iron’, there’s open rebellion of the nations at the end of this Millennial reign (Re 2:27; Re 12:5; Re 19:15Rev 20:7-15).

Baptism w/Water & Justification of the Circumcision

Introductory Questions

Have you ever asked a professing believer as why they were baptized with water? After their response, have you ever asked same person for supportive scripture backing up their response? If the reader has been baptized with water, what scripture would you turn to in giving explanation as to why?

Baptism with water is one of the most divisive issues in Christendom. In introduction to this segment on God justifying the circumcision ‘by’ faith, questions are being asked of the reader, in such fashion, as to accomplish three (3) things:

First… to test one’s general knowledge of the subject.

Second… to stir thought towards areas, within this subject, never thought about before.

Third… to challenge the reader to defend their position of their understanding of the subject.

From personal experience, the greatest periods of spiritual growth and knowledge, of the word, came when no longer being able to defend the doctrine I’d first adhered to having been taught. The growth was the result of yielding to the truth I began to see. One’s growth stops when one quits seeing. The Bereans searched the scriptures daily to prove whether things were so and these questions are designed to do the same regarding this controversial, but critical subject.

Acts 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

they received the word with all readiness of mind
and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so

Questions regarding bible baptisms:

How many different baptisms are there in the bible?

What is the bible’s definition of the word ‘baptism’ or ‘baptize’?

Whom in the bible is the first accredited with baptizing with water?

What was the significance of the divers’ washings under the Old Covenant?

What significance, if any, does baptism with water have in the New Covenant?

Under whose authority was John the Baptist baptizing with water?

Why was John the Baptist baptizing with water?

Why was Jesus baptized by John the Baptist?

At Jesus’ baptism, where was Jesus standing when the Holy Spirit descended upon Him?

Why didn’t Jesus personally baptize converted disciples with water?

How many different baptisms is the Lord Jesus Christ associated with?

How many different baptismal formulas are there in the Bible?

Why did Philip baptize the Samaritans only in the name of the Lord?

Why did John and Peter have to lay hands on the Samaritans after Philip baptized them?

Why did the Ethiopian eunuch ask Philip to be baptized with water?

Why did Peter baptize Cornelius simply in the name of the Lord?

Why isn't the baptismal formula of Matthew 28:19, “baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” found in the book of Acts?

Which baptismal formula was necessitated in receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost?

Which baptism puts a believer into Christ?

In Roman's 6:3-4, which of the 3 mention of baptism is baptism with water?

Why wasn't Paul sent to baptize?

Did Paul really re-baptize the certain disciples in Acts 19?

What is the 'one baptism' in Eph. 4:5?

Where in the New Testament does it say that baptism with water is an ordinance for today?

Where from within the Pauline epistles are there instructions to baptize with water?

Baptism with water is often referred to as ‘believer’s’ baptism… what is ‘believer’s’ baptism?

What is the symbolism behind baptism with water?

Where is it stated or implied that baptism with water is simply a testimonial?

Who has the authority to administer baptism with water today?

Is or should baptism with water be a requirement for church membership?

Is or should baptism with water be a requirement for participating in communion?

To whom or where does your denomination or pastor trace their practice of baptism with water? John the Baptist, Jesus, the Twelve Apostles, Paul, other?

Is infant baptism with water recorded anywhere in Scripture?

Why do certain denominations like the Methodist and Lutheran sprinkle while others like the Baptist & Church of Christ immerse?

Why doesn't or should denominations that practice baptism via immersion only accept into membership believers baptized by some other mode?

What is the age-long conflict between the Church of Christ and Baptists over baptism with water?

Which denominations, religious sects and/or cults claim sole rights to the administering of baptism with water?

Does baptism with water have a role regarding one’s justification or righteousness today?

If applicable, what reason(s) were you given for the need to be baptized with water?

Why were you baptized?

Baptism with Water

Focus here turns to baptism with water as it is a core element fitting into the picture of the circumcision being justified ‘by' faith.

It is IMPOSSIBLE to understand baptism with water without first understanding Moses’ baptism with water, followed by the institution of the divers' washings, under the Mosaic Covenant. After Israel’s initial baptism with water, which is accredited to Moses (Jn 1:25; Ac 3:22), various divers washings were put in place, along with many other ordinances.

Hebrews 9:9-10 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.

Which stood only in meats and drinks
and divers washings
and carnal ordinances
imposed on them until the time of reformation

Paul's Call for Unity

In spite of Paul’s call to unity over the subject of ‘baptism’ (Eph 4:5), fewer subjects hold more controversy, contention and confusion, than the subject of baptism, within the denominational system. Whereas Paul’s call for unity over ‘one baptism’, in addressing converted Gentiles once without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world (Eph 2:12), the focus here is on God’s covenanted people, Israel; the circumcision.

No stone will be left unturned or question unanswered, upon laying the foundation for this subject, to then follow its path through the Gospel's and Acts’ period. Modes, methods and means between various denominations will also be brought into play, along with errs generated within particular denominations. At the heart of all division, on this subject, is not defining distinction between God justifying the circumcision ‘by faith’ and the uncircumcision ‘through faith’ and recognizing Paul’s unique ministry to non-covenanted Gentiles, apart from the Apostles.

Moses' & Jesus' Baptisms

Before tracing the roots of John the Baptist’s baptism with water, two baptisms paralleling Moses and Jesus will be placed side by side. To each, one is a wet baptism while the other a dry baptism. It is important that we keep these baptisms in mind as this highly controversial subject is dissected. These two baptisms must be held with distinctive characteristics while dealing with other facets of this subject.

Moses' Baptism with Water

Exodus 19:10 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes,… Exodus 19:14 And Moses went down from the mount unto the people, and sanctified the people; and they washed their clothes.

Moses went down... and sanctified the people; and they washed their clothes

Baptism unto Moses

1 Corinthians 10:1-2 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;

all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea

Jesus' Baptism with Water

John 4:1-2 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, 2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John

Baptism into Jesus Christ

Romans 6:3-4 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.

as many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ

All bible baptisms, whether wet or dry, are part of a sanctifying/separating process. Israel, whether under Moses or at the time of Jesus, went through a sanctifying process of cleansing or purification in being baptized with water. The baptism unto Moses, as well as the baptism into Christ, was and is a sanctifying process of identification. A nation was separated or identified unto Moses as believers today are separated or identified in Jesus Christ.

After Moses’ initial baptism with water, divers washings were put in place, as part of the scheme of the righteousness of God, for Israel under law. Below chart lays the groundwork for all following deductions to be made regarding Old Testament divers’ washings, as well as giving foundation to baptism with water in the New Testament.

DIVERS' WASHINGS

The following verses reveal the terms and words used in the OT Scriptures that deal directly with the 'divers washings' mentioned in Hebrews 9:10: "Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.”

Divers's Washings

Ex 19:10 sanctify, wash

14 sanctified, washed

29: 1 hallow

4 wash

9 consecrate

17 wash

30:18 wash

19 wash

20 wash

21 wash, statute

30 consecrate

40:12 wash

30 wash

31 washed

32 washed

Lev 1: 9 wash

13 wash

6:27 wash

28 rinsed

8: 6 washed

10 sanctified

21 washed

9:14 wash

11:25 wash

28 wash

32 cleansed

40 wash, wash

13: 6 wash, clean

7 cleansing

34 wash, clean

35 cleansing

37 clean, clean

54 wash

55 washed

56 washing

58 wash, wash, clean

59 clean

14: 2 cleansing

4 cleansed

5 running water

6 running water

8 cleansed, wash, clean

9 wash, clean

47 wash, wash

49 cleanse

50 running water

51 running water

52 cleanse, running water

Lev 15: 5 wash, bath

6 wash, bath

7 wash, bath

8 wash, bath

10 wash, bath

11 rinsed, wash, bath

12 rinsed

13 cleansing, wash, bath,

running water

16 wash

17 wash

18 bath

21 wash, bath

22 wash, bath

27 wash, bath

16: 4 wash

24 wash

26 wash, bath

28 wash, bath

17:15 wash, bath, clean

16 wash, bath

22: 6 wash

9 ordinance

Num 8: 6 cleanse

7 cleanse, Sprinkle, purifying,

wash, clean

21 purified, washed

19: 7 wash, bath

8 wash, bath

9 water of separation,

purification

10 wash

12 purify, purify

13 purifieth, water of separation,

sprinkled

17 purification, running water

18 sprinkle

19 sprinkle, purify, wash, bath,

clean

20 purify, water of separation,

sprinkled

21 statute, sprinkleth, water of

separation, wash, water of

separation

31:23 purified, water of separation

24 wash, clean

Dt 21: 6 wash

23:11 wash

The various divers washings can be categorized as follows:

Priests were washed prior to ministry before Jehovah (Ex 29:1-9; Ex 30:18-21; Ex 40:31, 32; Lev 8:1-10; Lev 16:1-4, 24; Num 8:5-7)
Priests washed clothes after sacrificing (Lev 6:25-27; Lev 16:23-28)
Priests washed legs and inwards of sacrifices (Ex 29:17; Lev 1:9, 13; Lev 8:21; Lev 9:14)
Lepers went through many ceremonial washings (Lev 13:6, 7, 34-37, 54-59; Lev 14:1-9, 47; Lev 15:5-27)
People were to wash after defilement (Lev 11:20-28; Lev 14:8, 9; Lev 15:1-27; Lev 17:15, 16 Lev 22:6; Num 19:1-21; Deu 23:11)

The significance of the element (water), which was used in the divers washings, can be seen in the ceremonial practices in which the water was used:

Sanctifying Consecrating Purifying Hallowing Cleansing Separating

The modes (methods of application) by which the water was administered are as follows:

Washing Rinsing Bathing Sprinkling

Note. II Kings 5:1-14; Under the instruction of Elisha, Naaman ‘dipped' himself seven times in Jordan to wash himself, and be clean from his leprosy.

The consequences for not submitting to these 'divers washings' were:

"So they shall wash their hands and their feet, that they die not:... they shall wash with water, that they die not;" Ex 30:20, 21

"But if he wash them not, nor bathe his flesh; then he shall bear his iniquity." Lev 17:16

"...that soul shall be cut off from My presence... lest they bear sin for it, and die therefore,..." Lev 22:3, 9

"...and that soul shall be cut off from Israel:... that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation..." Num 19:13, 20

Divers washings are classified as: Statute; Ordinance

Baptism with Water Under the Kingdom Gospel

In considering justification, of the circumcision during the Gospels' and early Acts’ periods, focus must be on the kingdom gospel, as introduced by John the Baptist and then tracked through Jesus and His disciples pre and post cross ministries.

John the Baptist

Throughout the Old Testament Israel was assured that after having strayed from the LORD, if she would but repent, forgiveness and restoration would be granted. This is seen throughout the period of Judges as well as under the reigns of certain kings within the southern kingdom of Judah.

In preparation of Israel’s Messiah, this forerunner’s message was one of repentance and baptism with water for the remission of sins, that was necessitated, as response to a message of justification ‘by faith’.

John's baptism w/water

Matthew 3:1-6 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight
Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins

Mark 1:1-5 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; 2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 3 The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. 5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight
John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins
there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins

Catechism 101 Baptism w/Water

Luke 3:1-6 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. 3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; 6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins
Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight

John 1:6-8 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. John 1:19-23 And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? 20 And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ. 21 And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. 22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? 23 He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. 24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. 25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?

Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias

Catechism 101 Baptism w/water

Make no mistake, John’s baptism wasn’t optional in preparing Israel for her Messiah in the reestablishment of the kingdom of heaven back into the hands of God’s covenanted people. As confession (Le 5:5; Le 16:21; Le 26:40; Nu 5:7; 1Ki 8:33,35; 2Ch 6:24,26; Ezr 10:1; Ne 1:6; Ne 9:2-3; Ps 32:5; Da 9:20) and divers' washings were part of the package, of repentance under the Old Covenant, confession and baptism with water, was part of the package of repentance, in preparation of the New Covenant.

Unlike today, a bouquet of flowers and baptismal certificates weren’t handed out at submission to John’s baptism, but pending judgment, as was under the Old Covenant, if met with resistance.

The following comparison shows parallel of results in disobedience between the divers’ washings and John’s baptism:

Old Covenant Divers Washings

Ex 30:20, 21 "So they shall wash their hands and their feet, that they die not:... they shall wash with water, that they die not;"

Lev 17:16 "But if he wash them not, nor bathe his flesh; then he shall bear his iniquity."

Lev 22:3, 9 "...that soul shall be cut off from My presence... lest they bear sin for it, and die therefore,..."

Numbers 19:1-22 And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying, 2 This is the ordinance of the law which the LORD hath commanded, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring thee a red heifer without spot, wherein is no blemish, and upon which never came yoke: 3 And ye shall give her unto Eleazar the priest, that he may bring her forth without the camp, and one shall slay her before his face: 4 And Eleazar the priest shall take of her blood with his finger, and sprinkle of her blood directly before the tabernacle of the congregation seven times: 5 And one shall burn the heifer in his sight; her skin, and her flesh, and her blood, with her dung, shall he burn: 6 And the priest shall take cedar wood, and hyssop, and scarlet, and cast it into the midst of the burning of the heifer. 7 Then the priest shall wash his clothes, and he shall bathe his flesh in water, and afterward he shall come into the camp, and the priest shall be unclean until the even. 8 And he that burneth her shall wash his clothes in water, and bathe his flesh in water, and shall be unclean until the even. 9 And a man that is clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer, and lay them up without the camp in a clean place, and it shall be kept for the congregation of the children of Israel for a water of separation: it is a purification for sin. 10 And he that gathereth the ashes of the heifer shall wash his clothes, and be unclean until the even: and it shall be unto the children of Israel, and unto the stranger that sojourneth among them, for a statute for ever. 11 He that toucheth the dead body of any man shall be unclean seven days. 12 He shall purify himself with it on the third day, and on the seventh day he shall be clean: but if he purify not himself the third day, then the seventh day he shall not be clean. 13 Whosoever toucheth the dead body of any man that is dead, and purifieth not himself, defileth the tabernacle of the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from Israel: because the water of separation was not sprinkled upon him, he shall be unclean; his uncleanness is yet upon him. 14 This is the law, when a man dieth in a tent: all that come into the tent, and all that is in the tent, shall be unclean seven days. 15 And every open vessel, which hath no covering bound upon it, is unclean. 16 And whosoever toucheth one that is slain with a sword in the open fields, or a dead body, or a bone of a man, or a grave, shall be unclean seven days. 17 And for an unclean person they shall take of the ashes of the burnt heifer of purification for sin, and running water shall be put thereto in a vessel: 18 And a clean person shall take hyssop, and dip it in the water, and sprinkle it upon the tent, and upon all the vessels, and upon the persons that were there, and upon him that touched a bone, or one slain, or one dead, or a grave: 19 And the clean person shall sprinkle upon the unclean on the third day, and on the seventh day: and on the seventh day he shall purify himself, and wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and shall be clean at even. 20 But the man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation, because he hath defiled the sanctuary of the LORD: the water of separation hath not been sprinkled upon him; he is unclean. 21 And it shall be a perpetual statute unto them, that he that sprinkleth the water of separation shall wash his clothes; and he that toucheth the water of separation shall be unclean until even. 22 And whatsoever the unclean person toucheth shall be unclean; and the soul that toucheth it shall be unclean until even.

and it shall be kept for the congregation of the children of Israel for a water of separation: it is a purification for sin
Whosoever... and purifieth not himself, defileth the tabernacle of the LORD; and that soul shall be cut off from Israel: because the water of separation was not sprinkled upon him, he shall be unclean; his uncleanness is yet upon him
But the man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation, because he hath defiled the sanctuary of the LORD: the water of separation hath not been sprinkled upon him; he is unclean.
And it shall be a perpetual statute unto them, that he that sprinkleth the water of separation shall wash his clothes; and he that toucheth the water of separation shall be unclean until even

And a man that is clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer, and lay them up without the camp in a clean place, and it shall be kept for the congregation of the children of Israel for a water of separation: it is a purification for sin

John the Baptist's Baptism with Water

Matthew 3:7-11 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: 9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: 12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism
he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire
he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire
he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire

Luke 3:7-16 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. 9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? 11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. 12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? 13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. 14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages. 15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; 16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water;…

Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him,
O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance
And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire
And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?
He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise
Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?
And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you
And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do?
And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages
all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ
John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water

Luke 7:27-30 This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28 For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he. 29 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.

Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist
all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John
But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him

John 3:23-26 And John also was baptizing in AEnon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. 24 For John was not yet cast into prison. 25 Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying. 26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.

Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying

Rejected the counsel of God against themselves...

Death, bearing one’s iniquity, being separated from the presence of the LORD and cut off from among the congregation of Israel, were all results of disobedience to the various divers washings. Facing the wrath of God with judgement to come via prophesied tribulation (Joel 2) was what John the Baptist was warning those who would either justify or not justify God, being baptized by him. Just as there was a water of separation under the Old Covenant, so John’s baptism served as a water of separation in preparation for the New.

The following comparison of passages, attempts to demonstrate the mindset of one who was justified ‘by faith’, under the Old Covenant, while being reminded that the Gospels’ setting was still that of the Old Testament (Lk 1:6), in waiting for the establishment of the New Covenant.

Old Testament Justification Mindset

Deuteronomy 6:25 And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD our God, as he hath commanded us.

if we observe to do

Habakkuk 2:4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

the just shall live by his faith

Ezekiel 18:9 Hath walked in my statutes, and hath kept my judgments, to deal truly; he is just, he shall surely live, saith the Lord GOD.

Hath walked... hath kept... deal truly... he is just

OT (Gospels'/Early Acts') Justification Mindset

Luke 7:29-30 And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.

all the people... and publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John

Mark 16:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved

1 Peter 3:21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

whereunto even baptism doth also now save us
(not the putting away of the filth of the flesh
but the answer of a good conscience toward God)

The circumcision, justifying God under the Old Covenant, was simply living by one’s faith in faithful obedience to the Lord GOD’s commandments. Under the kingdom gospel, the circumcision justified God by believing and being baptized for the remission of sins, in anticipation of sins being blotted out at the return of Christ (Acts 3:19-20).

There were literal or physical benefits and blessings in observing the commandments of the LORD, however certain commandments had both a physical and ceremonial aspect. For instance, divers washings did serve as a physical cleansing in certain instances. Just as important, if not more important, they served as a ceremonial rite in which obedience to such served purpose to God that one was cleansed, in God’s eyes, though that washing or baptism couldn’t literally take away the filth of the flesh. As Peter expressed to the Christian Jews saved under the kingdom gospel… 'but the answer of a good conscience toward God.' The publicans justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John, whereas the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him… 'he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be dammed.'

John's Convert Helping Grace Converts

While still dealing with John’s baptism, here is an indisputable example of proving that God justified different groups of people differently. Apollos, a convert of John the Baptist, thus being justified ‘by faith’, in submitting to John’s baptism, had an encounter with two of Paul’s helpers.

Acts 18:24-28 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. 26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. 27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: 28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.

a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures
was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John
whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly
who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace
For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ

Apollos, having a strong background in the scriptures, obviously being the Old Testament, helped them much which had believed 'through grace'. Apollos himself having been expounded the way of God more perfectly proves a dispensational change. Though having been saved ‘through faith’, these new grace believers weren’t as familiar with the OT scriptures as was Apollos. On top of what Apollos had already known was added revelation committed to him through Paul’s discipled helpers. The passage just referenced is meaningless outside of the context of some being justified ‘by faith’, while others ‘through faith’, along with a change in God’s method. One could wonder if Apollos had run into any of the Twelve and if he did, would it had made any difference as to what Apollos had already understood? My guess is not...

The Lord Jesus Christ

There are a total of six (6) baptisms associated directly to the Lord Jesus Christ; two wet baptisms and four dry baptisms:

Jesus baptized by John the Baptist
Jesus credited for baptizing with water
Jesus’ baptism with the Holy Ghost
Jesus’ baptism with fire
Jesus’ death baptism
Baptism into Jesus Christ

Since the focus, within this segment of the chapter, is baptism with water, the dry baptisms will only be briefly documented and such documentation is simply to show that the word ‘baptism’ isn’t restricted to ‘water’ as commonly thought.

Two of the three dry baptisms are found in Matthew 3:11.

Matthew 3:11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost

Jesus’ baptism with the Holy Ghost

Without EXCEPTION to the rule, the baptism ‘with’ the Holy Ghost is the power from above which was promised by the Father (Acts 1:4-8). This baptism MUST NOT be confused with the baptism ‘by’ the Spirit, in which believers are placed into the body of Christ (1Co 12:13), nor with the fruits of the Spirit which all believers should manifest (Gal 5:16-26). In John 20:22, it is recorded where Jesus breathed on His disciples for them to receive the Holy Ghost and yet it isn’t until Acts 2, that the Apostles were baptized ‘with’ the Holy Ghost, in which they were endowed with power (Acts 2:1-4). The baptism ‘with’ the Holy Ghost comes from without, whereas the fruits of the Spirit comes from within.

Those who claim to receive the baptism ‘with’ the Holy Ghost today, must do so at the expense of claiming to have powers destined for the world to come (Heb 6:5), while refuting Paul’s doctrinal statement that there’s but one baptism today, in this day of grace for saved non-covenanted Gentiles. In other words, one’s claim of experience overrides the dictation of scripture!

Jesus baptism with fire

… and with fire:

The baptism ‘with’ fire is clearly defined in the verse that follows (Mt 3:12), as the judgement prophesied that Israel will experience (Isa 1:24-31; 4:1-4) in God purging His people prior to the establishment of the earthly kingdom.

The third dry baptism tied to Jesus is His death (Mt 20:22-23) and this baptism will be considered more thoroughly later under the discussion of the various modes of baptism.

The fourth dry baptism, essential to every member of the body of Christ and discussed in various places within the Theme Study, is the identification of each believer ‘by’ the Spirit into Christ… for ‘by’ one Spirit are we all baptized into one body… (1Co 12:13; Gal 3:27; Col 2:12).

We now turn to Jesus’ two wet baptisms.

Jesus baptized by John the Baptist

John 1:29-36 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. 30 This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. 31 And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. 32 And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. 33 And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. 34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God. 35 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; 36 And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!

Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world
And I knew him not
but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water
And I knew him not
but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost
And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God
Behold the Lamb of God!

There are many intriguing announcements surrounding John’s baptism of Christ. Though the focus here will be on why Jesus subjected Himself to John’s baptism, certain of John’s statements will first be investigated.

First, there is some debate as to whether Jesus and John had ever actually encountered before though their mothers where cousins, having met some 30 years earlier (Lk 1:39-43). This stems over the comment made twice, “I knew Him not” (Jn 1:31, 33). Though it is certainly possible that a personal encounter was never made before, it could be and is argued that the expression is used similar to that in John 14:9, where it is possible to know someone, without actually ‘knowing’ them. The shadowy component is in the fact that John the Baptist was the forerunner of One who was not only expected, but to be pointed out by special revelation, regardless of any previous meeting. The kingdom stage is set and the king steps forward with acknowledged recognition.

Secondly, John’s gospel wasn’t the finish work of Christ though recorded saying… behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world. As to what John understood beyond the sacrificially element, of that statement, isn't revealed. John preached Christ according to prophecy, in preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, in declaring the kingdom of heaven at hand (Mk 1:1-3). In contrast, Paul preached the finished work of Christ, as a hidden element of his gospel (Rom 16:25-26; 1Co 1:23-24; 2:7-8) and it’s challenging to believe that John the Baptist understood more than Jesus’ disciples, after having spent three (3) years with Him (Lk 18:31-34; Jn 20:8-9). Also, remember that he who declared Jesus, as the Lamb of God, later inquired if it was truly Jesus who should come or else look for another (Mt 11:2-3)?

It Becometh Us to Fulfil all righteousness

Matthew 3:13-15 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. 14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? 15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

Suffer it to be so now:
for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness

Even with the preciseness of Jesus’ response, to John the Baptist’s statement of ‘need’ to be baptized by Jesus, some guesswork still surrounds as to what exactly was meant in fulfilling ‘all righteousness’? First of all, when John spoke of his need to be baptized by Jesus, was he looking at it from the perspective of his own mission, of baptism for the remission of sins or from declaration that Jesus was to be the baptizer with the Holy Ghost? Jesus’ baptism, with the Holy Ghost, didn’t come till after the resurrection as the commission to baptize for the remission of sins continued after John’s death and throughout Jesus’ earthly ministry.

So, why then did John the Baptist suffer to baptize Jesus?

Gal 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

Matthew 5:17-18 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

Rom 15:8 Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers:

But when the fulness of the time was come
God sent forth his Son, made of a woman
made under the law
Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets
but to fulfil
Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God
to confirm the promises made unto the fathers

What is obvious is that John’s mission was to make Jesus manifest to Israel and his baptism with water paved the way, being climaxed with the Spirit descending, from heaven like a dove, aboding upon Jesus after being baptized; the sign John anticipated... "...Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost."

To ‘fulfill all righteousness’ also gives clue as to why Jesus was baptized. Along with other segments within this Theme Study, an entire chapter is dedicated as to what the righteousness of God, under the law was, and as to why it had to be attained. Jesus was made under the law and was a minister of the circumcision, so His baptism fulfilled certain requirements. Along with Moses baptizing Israel, divers washings where put in place to set themselves apart for service for God (Ex 19:1-14; Num 19:1-13). Aaron and his sons were washed prior to ministering before Jehovah (Lev 8:1-6; Ex 29:1-9). There is one other typology, that could be considered, and that being Priests washing legs and inwards of sacrifices (Lev 1:1-13)… behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world. Having listed these things, it should be reminded that though Christ, being a High Priest to Israel, it wasn’t after the order of the Levites (Heb 5:6,10; 6:20; 7:11,17,21). Also, though being baptized by one who was baptizing for the remission of sins, Christ knew no sin, but bore ours (1Pet 2:24; 1Jn 3:5)!

Jesus' baptism by John

Jesus baptism w/Holy Ghost B

baptism with fire A

baptism of death A

Bearing Their Iniquities

Peter's Viewpoint (Prophecy Revealed)

Isaiah 53:10-12 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

for he shall bear their iniquities
and he bare the sin of many

1 Peter 2:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree
by whose stripes ye were healed

Bearing Our Sin

Paul’s Viewpoint (Mystery Revealed)

2 Cor. 5:21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin
that we might be made the righteousness of God in him

Rom 5:19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

1 Timothy 2:3-7 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 7 Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

Who will have all men to be saved
Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time

Righteousness, which was provided under the Old Covenant, gives answers as to why Jesus submitted to John’s baptism; Christ was introduced to His People to prove fulfillment of the law and covenanted promises!

Matthew 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil

Luke 24:44-46 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. 45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, 46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:

that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me

Jesus and Kingdom Gospel

After Jesus’s baptism by John and temptation from Satan, Jesus too began preaching the kingdom gospel and the collection of His disciples (Mt 4:17-23).

Matthew 4:17-23 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 18 And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. 19 And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. 20 And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. 21 And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. 22 And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him. 23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand

Jesus the Prophet like unto Moses

John 1:19-25 And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou? 20 And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ. 21 And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No. 22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself? 23 He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias. 24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. 25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?

Who art thou?
And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ
And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not.
Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No
Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?

John the Baptist was indeed a prophet (Lk 7:26) and Israel was expecting a prophet, like unto Moses, to show up. When he would, one of the expectations was that He would baptize with water, as did Moses. When quizzed, John denied being either Christ, nor Elias and neither that prophet in which the scriptures referred to. It didn’t take long though for the people to realize who that prophet was!

Jesus' & Kingdom Gospel A

The Prophet Moses

Deuteronomy 18:15-19 The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken; 16 According to all that thou desiredst of the LORD thy God in Horeb in the day of the assembly, saying, Let me not hear again the voice of the LORD my God, neither let me see this great fire any more, that I die not. 17 And the LORD said unto me, They have well spoken that which they have spoken. 18 I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. 19 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.

The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of the thee, of thy brethren, like unto me;
I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him
And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him

Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes
And Moses went down... and sanctified the people; and they washed their clothes

The Prophet Like Unto Moses

Matthew 14:5 And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.

he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet

Matthew 21:11 And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.

This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee

Luke 24:19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:

Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet

Acts 3:22-26 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. 24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.

For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me

John 3:26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.

behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him

Jesus Baptizing With Water

John 3:22-29 After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized. 23 And John also was baptizing in AEnon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. 24 For John was not yet cast into prison. 25 Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying. 26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him. 27 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. 28 Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. 29 He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.

Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying
And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan
to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him

John 4:1-2 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, 2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John
(Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples)

The Pharisees now had two prophets to deal with and when the issue of purification came up, within the context of preparing Israel for the bridegroom, John the Baptist had nothing but praise. The kingdom gospel was marching on as multitudes began responding to Jesus, as evidenced now that more disciples were being baptized, than under John’s ministry.

Why Jesus Didn’t Personally Baptize with Water

If there was just one question that could be raised and answered with clarity, that would prove the theme behind this website, it would be this question... "Why didn't Jesus personally baptize with water?"

Under the Old Testament, there was a pattern of witness between heaven and earth. There are numerous examples. A tree of knowledge of good and evil was planted beside the tree of life (Gen 2:9). Fire from above would testify if one’s offering was accepted (Gen 4:4-5; Lev 9:24; 1Ki 18:38). The omnipresence of the LORD would keep tab on the activities of man and reacted to such (Gen 11; 18:17-21; Job 1:6-8). Signs would often follow promises made by God (Gen 15:13-17; Ex 4:28; Jug 6:17-21). A physical representation of God’s presence would at times accompany man (Gen 28:12; Ex 13:22; Dan 3:19-25; 6:20-23). Circumcision was a physical mark that discerned between Abraham’s seed and the nations. The giving of and living within the Mosaic Covenant was based on a witness system. Moses was a mediator of the Old Covenant between God and the people (Ex 19:1-8) and the establishment of the Twelve Tribes accompanied by a Priesthood, judges and kings was a check and balance system. Under law, it required two or three witnesses for a matter to be established (Deut 17:6, 19:15; Mt 18:16).

When John the Baptist arrived on the scene, all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John (Lk 7:29). This means, of the people justifying God, under the kingdom gospel, continued with the baptism that is accredited to Jesus, though being performed by His disciples (Jn 4:1-2).

Jesus Stepping Outside the Box

Even though neither Moses or Jesus personally performed the baptisms, each are given credit for the baptism(s) done! Seldom, to never, is the question ever raised as to why Jesus ever personally baptized? Why didn’t Jesus personally baptize with water?

This question is critical in both understanding and demonstrating the difference between justification ‘by faith’ and ‘through faith’! The reasoning behind Jesus not personally baptizing converts CANNOT be understood, with bible-sense, outside of the context of discerning the circumcision being justified ‘by faith’, at this time during the earthy ministry of Christ.

So back to the question… Why didn’t Jesus personally baptize converts for the remission of their sins? The real question is… Why would He? Why would He, who could verbally express forgiveness to someone, end up baptizing same for the remission of their sins?

Two Exceptions to the Rule:

Why Jesus didn't baptize

Faith of the Palsy Man

Luke 5:18-26 And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him. 19 And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus. 20 And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. 21 And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone? 22 But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts? 23 Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk? 24 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. 25 And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. 26 And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.

And when he saw their faith
he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee
And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies?
Who can forgive sins, but God alone?
he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts?
Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise up and walk
But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins

Faith of the Sinner Woman

Luke 7:36-50 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. 37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. 40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. 41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? 43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 49 And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50 And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner
And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven
they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?
And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace

But that ye may know...

Again, the lack of understanding of OT justification comes into play here. The scribes and Pharisees at least understood the application of water for purification as was being demonstrated by the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus and His disciples. However, there was total denunciation when Jesus simply spoke the words of forgiveness! Who could forgive sins, but God? Whereas, the faith demonstrated by others led multitudes to be baptized for the remission of their sins, in preparation of the New Covenant, Jesus simply verbalized forgiveness in response to the faith demonstrated in these two exceptional cases.

What would have kept the Lord Jesus from simply walking around the multitudes verbally expressing forgiveness of sins towards those who were responding ‘by’ faith, in submitting to the kingdom gospels’ call, to be baptized for the remission of their sins? Nothing…! But, Jesus did step outside of the box these two times to prove to the scribes and Pharisees… that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins.

The gospel of the kingdom was preparing Israel for national forgiveness (Acts 3:19-20) and in just a few instances, Christ demonstrated his power, as one who could forgive sins, while yet on earth. Thus, Christ’s converts and prospects for baptism with water, in anticipation for the establishment of the New Covenant, were filtered through His disciples. These converts were being justified 'by faith', in their faithful obedience to the kingdom gospel.

Think about it... Does one go through a mediator today, via baptism for the remission of one's sins, or straight to the Mediator?... "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;" 1 Timothy 2:5

Who Was Jesus

What Exactly Did the Jew Have to Believe?

Mark 1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

Unfortunately, the who, why, what, when and where are often left out of teaching in the exegesis of scripture. Prior to the beheading of John the Baptist, John’s and Jesus’ ministries overlapped for a short period of time, each proclaiming the kingdom of God at hand. To further illustrate justification ‘by faith’, under the kingdom gospel, we’re going to consider here the scenario exiting at the time in which both John the Baptist’s and Jesus’ ministries overlapped, in asking the question… how exactly was the Jew being saved (justified) under each’s ministry? Under the crowd, John was attracting, lacked the presence of the Saviour, in which the disciples’ crowd had privilege to. How were converts being made under John’s crowd when Jesus was elsewhere? What exact role did the Lord Jesus play in the conversion of the crowd in which He and the disciples were ministering to? Did John’s converts have to believe that Jesus was going to die and be raised again from the dead to recite the ‘sinner’s' prayer’ before being baptized? Did the converts, under Jesus’ and the disciple’s ministry, have to walk up to Jesus confessing that they believed He was going to be crucified and raised again, before saying a ‘sinner’s prayer’ and being baptized? The exact reason why most can’t answer these questions is because of the lack of understanding of justification ‘by faith’, under the Old Testament, coupled with failure to rightly divide the word of truth.

Understanding Christ’s death, burial and resurrection wasn’t, nor could have been, the criteria of one’s acceptance of Jesus under the kingdom gospel, for the understanding of these facts were ‘hid’ from the disciples at this time (Lk 18:33-34; Jn 20:9). What was it then that had to be believed about Jesus under the kingdom gospel? Was it the mere admittance that Jesus was the prophet like unto Moses that was to come? Perhaps it was the confession of the multitudes that Jesus was the Messiah, the son of David?

A Jew’s Confession

Who was Jesus?

Jesus King of the Jews

Matthew 2:1-2 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, 2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

Matthew 21:5 Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.

John 12:13 Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord.

Matthew 27:11 And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.

Matthew 27:22 Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.

Matthew 27:29 And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!

Matthew 27:37 And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

Matthew 27:42 He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him.

John 6:14 Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.

Jesus the Son of God

Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Mark 1:1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;

John 1:34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.

Matthew 4:3 And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.

Luke 4:41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ.

John 1:49 Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.

John 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Mark 8:29 And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.

John 20:28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.

Three-fold Rejection of Jesus by the Majority of Jewish Leaders

There was a three-fold rejection, of Jesus by the majority leaders of the Jews, which included the chief priests, scribes and Pharisees. There was resentment towards the notion of Jesus being deemed as that prophet (Mt 21:46) and of declaration that He would someday reign as King (Mt 21:33-46). However, the biggest hatred was over Jesus’ claim to be the Son of God, making Himself equal with God.

John 10:32-36 Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? 33 The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God. 34 Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods? 35 If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken; 36 Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?

Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?
For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God
Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?

The People's Response to the Kingdom Gospel

Reminding the reader that the kingdom gospel was a legit offer, of the kingdom to Israel, with all that would precede its establishment including tribulation, the following was mandated:

Repentance that included confession of sins and wrongs righted (Lk 3:1-14).
Acknowledgement of Jesus not only being that prophet like unto Moses and David’s lineage to the throne, but most of all… Jesus being the Son of God (Jn 3:18; Mt 16:13-17).
Being baptized with water, that ceremonial act of purification for the remission of sins; a justifying act of faithful obedience (Lk 7:29-30; Jn 3:35; Heb 10:22).

The crucifixion was spearheaded by the chief priests and elders of the people and in spite of the multitudes, that responded to the kingdom gospel, a large number still did not (Mt 27:1-42; Mk 15:1-15; Lk 23:1-25; Jn 19:1-15).

Matthew 23:13 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!
for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in

Matthew 27:1 When the morning was come, all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death:

all the chief priests and elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death

Matthew 27:20-25 But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. 21 The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of the twain will ye that I release unto you? They said, Barabbas. 22 Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified. 23 And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified. 24 When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it. 25 Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.

But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus
Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified
I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it
Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children

John 19:15 But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.

But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him
Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar

The Kingdom Gospel After the Resurrection

As indicated earlier in this chapter, the kingdom gospel picked up, where it left off, after the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. The exception now was the bonus of the granted promise, of the Holy Ghost, as both prophesied and declared by both John the Baptist and the Lord.

Acts 1:4-6 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. 6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father
For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence
they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?

The following table shows prophecy regarding Christ to return to sit upon His throne, in fulfillment of the Davidic covenant, and Israel’s responsibility, at that time to make it happen.

Apostles recommissioned B

Israel’s Responsibility to the Kingdom Gospel

Acts 2:1-15 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. 5 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? 9 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? 13 Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: 15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.

Acts 2:22-23 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

Acts 2:36-41 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. 37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Acts 3:19-26 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; 20 And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: 21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. 22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. 23 And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. 24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. 25 Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. 26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

Prophecy Quoted in Re-offering the Kingdom to Israel

Acts 2:16-21 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: 21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Acts 2:24-35 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. 25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: 26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: 27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. 29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. 30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. 32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. 34 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.

Acts 3:12-18 And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? 13 The God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. 14 But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; 15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses. 16 And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all. 17 And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers. 18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.

Demanded response to the kingdom gospel didn’t change… repentance and baptism for the remission of sins in first ‘turning every one of you’ (Israelites) from their iniquities, with promise of sending Jesus Christ, which before, under the ministries of John the Baptist and the disciples, was preached unto them. Jesus positioned at the right hand of God the Father waited for Israel’s response as we find Jesus standing at the stoning of Stephen (Acts 7:55-56).

The Commissioned Apostles

The following passages gives sequel to commissions in outreach to Israel in preparing her for the establishment of the kingdom through Acts 7, the stoning of Stephen.

Matthew 10:5-7 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: 6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not
But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel
And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand

Matthew 10:23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.

Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come

Mark 16:15-16 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved
but he that believeth not shall be damned

Go ye...

A common mistake is made in implying that the 'ye' is every professing Christian since these words were uttered by the Lord some 2,000 years ago. This command MUST be put into proper context! The 'ye' and 'into all the world', is qualified within the context... "And they went forth, and preached every where, the LORD working with them, and confirming the word with signs following." Mark 16:20 Those persecuted and scattered abroad from the persecution of Stephen were still preaching to none but the Jews only (Acts 11:19). Believing and being baptized for salvation is the kingdom gospel. Believing who Jesus was said to be and being baptized as was the step of obedience in a 'by faith' justification for the circumcision!

Acts 2:38-40 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.

Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins...
Save yourselves from this untoward generation

Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord
And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you
And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people

Acts 7:51-56 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. 52 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: 53 Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. 54 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. 55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 56 And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye
they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One;
of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers
When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth
But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God
Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God

Baptism with Water After Acts 7

There are a lot of twists and turns to the spreading of the kingdom gospel after the stoning of Stephen, which appears to have been a turning point in Israel’s history, as to having received the kingdom back into their hands at that time.

The focus here turns again to baptism with water in looking at details that, intentionally or unintentionally, are overlooked by most commentaries, preachers and teachers.

Philip and the Samaritans

Acts 8:1-13 And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles. 2 And devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him. 3 As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women committed them to prison. 4 Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. 5 Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. 6 And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. 8 And there was great joy in that city. 9 But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: 10 To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. 11 And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. 12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them
But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women

Philip was one of the seven, chosen by the Twelve apostles, to carry on certain ministry which would then free up the Apostles to dedicate time to prayer and ministry of the word (Acts 6:1-6). It is most noteworthy here to point out that as others were scattered abroad, because of the great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem, the apostles remained behind (Acts 8:1)! Why is this particularly noteworthy? It is because of the statement made to the disciples in Matthew 10, stating that… 'Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.'

Where it now gets really interesting are the distinctions between Philip’s baptism with water, compared to that of the Apostles.

Acts 8:14-17 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John
Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost
(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost

There are two HUGE distinctions between Philip’s and the Apostles’ baptisms to be pointed out. That special unction, of the gift of the Holy Ghost, which was a foretaste of the powers of the world to come (Heb 6:5), didn’t accompany Philip’s baptism though Philip demonstrated that gift which Simon coveted. The baptism with the Holy Ghost was to accompany those Jews who were baptized under the authority of ‘Jesus Christ’, as ascribed in Acts 2:38.

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins
and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost

The exact reason is given as to why the Holy Ghost didn’t fall upon the Samaritans and that is because Philip only had authority to baptize in the name of the Lord Jesus! After hearing that the Samaritans had believed Philip, concerning the kingdom of God and being baptized, the Apostles at Jerusalem sent Peter and John to lay hands on them to receive the gift. In connecting the bible dots, we learn that Philip, not being an apostle, baptized with same authority as did John the Baptist.

Malachi 3:1 Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.

I will send my messenger
he shall prepare the way before me
and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple

Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Acts 8:16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)

For as yet he was fallen upon none of them:
only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus

Acts 19:1-6 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, 2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 3 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. 4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?
Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus
And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied

There is a common false narrative that Paul re-baptized the certain disciples, of John the Baptist found at Ephesus, as recorded in Acts 19. This passage is dealt with in more detail under chapter titled "Gentiles", but inserted here to further demonstrate John’s authority. Keeping within the context of the Apostles simply laying hands on the Samaritans, without re-baptizing them, the question has to be raised as to why would Paul, also being an Apostle, re-baptize when having same authority as the Twelve? Also, as it will be pointed out here again shortly, when Peter baptized the Gentile household of Cornelius in Acts 10, it was only in the name of 'the Lord’, and that of after having received the gift of the Holy Ghost!

Philip & the Samaritans A

Philip and the Ethiopia Eunuch

Peter and John returned to Jerusalem (Acts 8:25) as Philip continued to minister. Philip bumps into an eunuch, from Ethiopia, returning from Jerusalem to had worship. This passage is rich with material regarding response to the kingdom gospel and with hints of resolve to controversy over various modes of baptism with water.

Isaiah 56:3-5 Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree. 4 For thus saith the LORD unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant; 5 Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.

neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree
For thus saith the LORD unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant
Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off

Acts 8:26-35 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. 27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, 28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. 30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? 31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. 32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: 33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. 34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.

And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus

There is a vast difference between ‘reading’ the scripture and ‘reading’ the scripture! What is meant in saying this is how often is a particular passage read over and over, throughout the years without real understanding, and then all of a sudden something comes to light as result of being shown by someone else or seen in contrast to another passage. This is exactly what happened with the encounter the eunuch had with Philip. The Apostles were in the same shape, as the eunuch, until Jesus Himself explained certain passages, such as what the eunuch was reading (Lk 18:31-34)! The biggest difference though is that throughout Israel’s history Christ’s sufferings and glory was mysterious even to those who prophesied it (1Pet 1:10-11). It was Jesus who had enlightened the Apostles, as to fulfilled prophecy, but Paul who thoroughly explains the doctrinal implications of that fulfilled prophecy (Rom 16:25-26; 1Co 1:22-24; 2:7-8).

Being Justified Under the Kingdom Gospel

What comes next is a perfect illustration of one being justified ‘by faith’, under the kingdom gospel.

Acts 8:36-39 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? 37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. 39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.

See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest
And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God
and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him

After Philip preached unto the eunuch Jesus, the eunuch requested to be baptized when coming upon a certain water. Why the request? What within Philip’s presentation of Jesus would inspire such a response from the eunuch?

There’s no indication that Philip had given the eunuch a certificate of baptism and returning back home from Jerusalem, it’s pretty obvious it wasn’t for church membership, at the church in Jerusalem… perhaps a local church back in Ethiopia? The scriptural answer is clear, within the context of being justified ‘by faith’, under the kingdom gospel, though you’ll certainly get a variety of answers depending upon the stance of a particular denomination.

Jesus: He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved… Mark 16:16

Ethiopian Eunuch: See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? Acts 8:36

Philip: If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. Acts 8:37

Ethiopian Eunuch: I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Acts 8:37

… and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. Acts 8:38

Tracing the Logic to Its End

At the beginning of this chapter it is stated that the circumcision, being justified ‘by faith’, was going to be traced to its logical end. This discussion started with Abraham’s seed at the implementation of circumcision. Studying the book of Acts creates some challenges following the circumcision’s response to the gospel. What we know for sure is that while the Apostles hung around Jerusalem, for a majority of the time, the emphasis of preaching was on the Jew only in turning Israel back to God.

Acts 11:19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.

While trying to remain focused on the role that baptism with water played, under the kingdom gospel, there are some key transitioning elements that must be brought to the forefront, that are mostly left out of teaching, preaching and commentary today. This will be followed with some challenging commentary and thought provoking questions relating to the subject of baptism with water itself. The following transitional turning points, inserted here, will serve as a reminder to the reader, already familiar with such throughout Acts, as well as events to be considered by readers not familiar with such transition.

Five Transitional Turning Points in Acts:

1. The kingdom being offered again to Israel with promise of the gift of the Holy Ghost and sins being blotted out at the return of Jesus being based on Israel’s response. (Acts 2:36-41; 3:19-26).

2. Stephen’s message of indictment to the people’s resistance of the Holy Ghost, being stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart as their fathers, and now the betrayers and murderers of the Just One, Jesus Christ (Acts 6:8 – 7:60). Jesus is standing at the right hand of God as Saul (Paul) was consenting unto Stephen’s stoning (Acts 6:55-56; 7:8:1).

3. The Thirteenth Apostle (Acts 9; 13). Just as the death, burial and resurrection were ‘hid’ from the Apostles, so was the conversion of one who was born out of due time (1 Co 15:8); an apostle dedicated to Gentiles. Received by special revelation from the Lord and backed up by the prophets, Paul's gospel was the preaching of Jesus Christ according to the revelation of the mystery kept secret since the foundation of the world (Rom 16:25-26) . A mystery 'hid' in God, was that non-covenanted Gentiles, saved by grace through faith and without works would become members of the household of God (Eph 2:8-3:9).

4. Peter’s Visit to Cornelius in Acts 10 is a key marker in determining the transition between God justifying the circumcision ‘by faith’ to ‘through faith’. Peter’s deduction as to why God had lead him to a Gentile’s household at this time was in perceiving that God was no respecter of persons, but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him (Acts 10:35). This monumental change of attitude, on Peter’s behalf, was climaxed when he and the circumcised believers that accompanied him, witnessed the outpouring of the Holy Ghost on Cornelius’ household BEFORE being baptized with water (Acts 10:44-48).

5. The door ‘of faith’ was opened to Gentiles through the ministry of Barnabas and Saul ((Paul) Acts 13 & 14)). A remnant of Israel was also being saved by the election of grace without works (Rom 11:5-6).

Baptism with Water

Why all the Confusion?

Many reasons can be given for the all the confusion surrounding baptism(s) in the scriptures. Denominational prejudice would be put first on the list. Unfamiliarity with the scriptures would come in second. Ignorance, in not recognizing that there are both wet and dry baptisms in the bible. There's confusion in the definition of the word baptism itself. Believing that John the Baptist, was the first Baptist and in not recognizing the roots from which his baptism originated. Not understanding the role that statutes and ordinances played, under the Mosaic Covenant, that carried over into the kingdom gospel. Not being able to discern between God justifying the circumcision 'by faith' and the uncircumcision 'through faith', plays a huge role in this confusion. Failure to discern between the commissions given to the Apostles from that of Paul's and the transitioning between. Though more reasons could be given, we're going to first address the various baptismal formulas or authorities, that are generally ignored in most commentary. I trust that this comparison, in of itself, would stir more investigative interest into this subject, other than simply accepting a fact that baptism with water is found in the scriptures and practiced by most denominations and religious sects!

Baptismal Formulas or Authorities

There are three distinct baptismal formulas or authorities in the bible as broken down in the following table:

Baptismal formulas A

In the Name

of the Lord

Malachi 3:1

Acts 8:16

Acts 10:48

Acts 19:5

In the Name

of Jesus Christ

Acts 2:38

In the Name

of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost

Zechariah 14:9

Matthew 28:19

In the Name of the Lord

John the Baptist arrived on the scene under the authority of the LORD of hosts in preparing the way of the Lord Jesus. Therefore, he baptized under that authority.

I will send my messenger
he shall prepare the way before me
and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple
he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts

In the Name of Jesus Christ

The Lord Jesus Christ had given the Twelve Apostles instruction to go to Jerusalem to wait for the promise of the Father to be endued with power from on high. The Lord Jesus Christ Himself, as the baptizer (Mk 1:8; 16:20), later commissioned the Apostles to baptize under His own authority; Jesus Christ.

Luke 24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

I send the promise of my Father upon you

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.

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
but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence

Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ
for the remission of sins
and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost

It is evident that those outside of the Apostles didn’t have that same authority. We find Philip baptizing in the name of the Lord, which necessitated the Apostles to come and lay hands on the Samaritans in order for them to experience the gift of the Holy Ghost. Also, there’s no evidence that the Ethiopia eunuch received the gift of the Holy Ghost after his baptism.

Acts 8:16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)

only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost

Today, many denominations baptize in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, but not once do we find anyone baptizing under that authority in the book of Acts and for good reason. Remembering the sequence of events regarding the return of the Lord Jesus, from the Apostles’ perspective, Israel was to regain authority of the kingdom at Christ’s return to then have outreach to the nations. The commission recorded in Matthew 28 is a ‘teaching’ commission with baptism in the ‘name’ (not names) of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. This is all realized after the tribulation, return of Christ and judgement of nations (Isa 52:15; Mic 4:1-2; Zech 14:9; Mt 25:31-46; Mt 28:19-20).

Isaiah 52:15 So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider.

So shall he sprinkle many nations;
the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider

Micah 4:1-2 But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it. 2 And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.

But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills
many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths
for the law shall go forth of Zion
and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem

Zechariah 14:9 And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.

And the LORD shall be king over all the earth
and his name one (‘name’ (not names) of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost)

When Peter baptized the household of Cornelius, after that they had received the gift of the Holy Ghost, Peter baptized them in the name of the 'Lord' and not in the name of 'Jesus Christ' or in the 'name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost'.

Not being sent to baptize with water, there’s no indication as to what authority, if any, Paul was baptizing under.

1 Corinthians 1:12-17 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? 14 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.

Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius
Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name
I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other
For Christ sent me not to baptize…

If Paul wasn’t sent to baptize with water, then his purpose for in doing so was other than what was before commissioned under the ministries of John the Baptist & Apostles!

More detail on this is given in chapter titled, "Gentiles".

The Separate Commissions on Baptizing With Water

Notice carefully the wording in contrasting the ‘teaching’ commission to all nations, recorded in Matthew 28, with that of the ‘preaching’ commission ministry in Mark 16, which was to begin 'among' the nations (Lk 24:47).

Matthew 28 & Mark 16 A

Teaching Commission

Matthew 28:18-20 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.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost

It is essential to understand that the 'Teaching them to observe all things', commanded them, would be the teachings of Christ, from the mountain top, recorded in Matthew chapters 5 - 7. These teachings relate to the 'kingdom of heaven' (5:3, 5, 10) and are the doctrine of Christ (Mt 7:28).

Matthew 5:19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

The kingdom of heaven is during the millennium reign of Christ here on earth (Rev 20:1-6).

Preaching Commission

Mark 16:15-20 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 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; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved
And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following

Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

should be preached in his name among all nations beginning at Jerusalem

If this all sounds confusing to the reader, then it is encouraged to read commentaries on these various passages or better yet, bring them up in discussion before a Sunday school teacher or pastor. The confusion comes in when trying to equate, the various baptismal formulas, in making things that are obviously different, to be the same. This is where the confusion and contradiction comes in!

The Diversity Among Denominations on Baptism with Water

Where's the Unity?

We’re now going to deal with various issues that lend to the confusion and dissension among the denominational system over baptism with water.

What makes this conversation extremely challenging is that it is proclaimed that there are literally hundreds of denominations; some mainstream and others not so much. On top of that, within each denomination, what the church constitution, statement of faith and bylaws reflect about a certain subject, may or may not be exactly what the preacher, teacher, elders or members adhere to publicly or privately. However, in approaching this subject, from a Pauline perspective, based on the ‘Statement of Faith’ in Ephesians 4:5-6, for non-covenanted converted Gentiles, in this dispensation of grace, controversy on baptism with water, melts away. It will be for the reader to decide what makes more bible-sense in endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Is Paul’s Statement of Faith to be taken literally or is there more than one baptism today and which denomination(s) have the correct biblical interpretation?

Ephesians 4:1-6 I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, 2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 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.

Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace
There is... one baptism

If the reader isn’t very familiar with the many diverse teachings on the subject of baptism with water, here it is encouraged that the reader investigates some of the denomination’s doctrinal positions on the subject. Following is a list of the more common denominations that can be quickly and easily researched. Also included are a few religious sects and cults: Amish, Assembly of God, Baptists, Baptist Bride, Catholics, Christian Missionary Alliance, Christian Science, Church of Christ, Church of God, Church of the Brethren, Church of the Nazarene, Episcopal Church, Full Gospel, Jehovah Witness, Lutherans, Mennonites, Methodists, Mormons, Plymouth Brethren, Presbyterian, Salvation Army, Seventh-day Adventist Church, Wesleyan.

The idea behind encouraging the reader to investigate this short list, as well as any other church that comes to mind, is for the reader and student of the scriptures to experience firsthand the diversity on this subject though all claim a scriptural basis for their belief.

Sacraments and Ordinances

The word sacrament isn’t found in the scriptures, but when used, more commonly by orthodox churches including Catholics, it points to something put in place by the Lord Jesus Christ. Baptism with water and the Lord’s Supper (or communion), fall into this class along with various other things such as Catholicism would add. The more unorthodox churches point to baptism with water and the Lord’s Supper (or communion) as ordinances or a memorial, in particular when applying to communion. Under the Old Covenant, divers’ washings fell under the categories of being a statute or ordinance.

Discernment, when reading statements of faith of any denomination or religious sect, is simple! If in participating in a sacrament or ordinance is mandated, as to affect one’s justification or righteousness, then that denomination or religious sect promotes a ‘by faith’ justification, as found under the Old Testament, as well as under the ministries of John the Baptist and the Apostles.

Though dealt with in more detail under chapter titled "Gentiles", the one verse used to promote baptism with water, as an ordinance (1Co 11:2) for today, does so with much hypothesis. The supposition is that if Paul performed something, then he must have established it as a church practice. The truth is that the only thing that can be proved, that was mandated for Paul to pass along to other Gentile assemblies, was that which was decreed by the Apostles and elders at Jerusalem in Acts 15:19-29.

Also covered in the chapter titled "Gentiles", is the reason for Paul having been baptized by Ananias (Acts 9:10-18; 22:12), Paul’s few baptisms (1Co 1:14-17), what actually transpired with the certain disciples in Acts 19 and the one baptism of Ephesians 4:5, listed in the Statement of Faith, for us saved non-covenanted Gentiles today.

Modes of Baptism with Water

Non-Immersion Baptism with Water

Why do some denominations and religious sects baptize via sprinkling or pouring water, while others baptize by immersion? The answer to the first part of this question is very simple. These denominations or religious sects draw on the typology from the Old Covenant, for in application for the New Covenant. The following modes (method of application) are extracted from the chart titled, ‘Divers Washings’: bathing, rinsing, sprinkling and washing. Also extracted, from same chart, is to what purpose or in what circumstances, the element of water was applied, under the Old Covenant: cleansing, consecrating, hallowing, purifying, sanctifying, separating. The answer to the first part of the question is really a no-brainer! Those who practice sprinkling or pouring water, copy from the Old Covenant that which the Jew was familiar with and they also tie in a ‘covenant’ relationship, of sorts, in their theology. Along with this typology, from the Old Covenant, comes a ‘by faith’ mentally in that the performing of this ‘sacrament’, a bond is created directly with the church and Jesus Christ. In other words, it is a ‘work of righteousness’ for salvation. How often has been heard, an 'reassuring' comment about somebody having died, that they were baptized when a baby or becoming member of a church... suggesting that there was security in such?

Those denominations that baptize babies justify such action in reading between the lines. Though nowhere in scripture can it be shown, it’s argued that in performing infant baptism, that a covenant is created between family, church and Christ. Again, a sense of security is given where no assurance can be scripturally justified.

Life- Experience: I was baptized both as an infant in a Methodist church (via sprinkling) and later in a Baptist church (via immersion), after professing the Lord Jesus Christ as personal saviour.

Baptism with Water Via Immersion

For the most part, argument for baptism with water, via immersion, is pure fabrication. Let it be clear, the issue isn’t mere pettiness over whether someone actually gets submerged, during a baptism, but the unsubstantiated persistence in demanding it, based on the reasoning behind it.

There are four (4) unfounded arguments in insisting baptism with water by immersion.

Immersionists 4 Unfounded Arguments:

(1) Much Water There

Exodus 19:10 And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them to day and to morrow, and let them wash their clothes, 14 And Moses went down from the mount unto the people, and sanctified the people; and they washed their clothes.

Go unto the people
sanctify them to day and to morrow
let them wash their clothes
they washed their clothes

Luke 3:7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him

John 3:23 And John also was baptizing in AEnon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.

because there was much water there

An argument is often made that the ‘much water’, mentioned in John 3:23, was to accommodate depth for immersion. However, the ‘much water’ was needed to accommodate the ‘multitudes’ (Lk 3:7), not a mode! After Israel’s national baptism unto Moses (1Co 10:1-2), first thing on Israel’s agenda was their sanctification which was accomplished in the washing of their clothes (Ex 19:10, 14). As with all the various OT divers’ washings, there needed to be ‘much water’, to accommodate all the Israelites and the mixed multitude that accompanied; not a particular mode! One can only begin to imagine the amount of water needed to accommodate Israel’s sanctification, baptism with water, under Moses’s directive. The same is true concerning the multitudes that were baptized both by John the Baptist, Jesus and His disciples. Depth of the water had little or nothing to do with the mode of baptism performed. The ‘much’ was to accommodate the ‘multitudes’, not a ‘mode’.

Life Experience: I’ve personally witnessed hundreds of baptisms with water in my life time and on occasion have done so at time of this writing. Though understanding baptisms with water are occasionally performed in larger bodies of waters, the baptisms I’ve witnessed, for one exception, have always been in baptismal pools or crafted tubs for such in church buildings. The one exception referenced is when I personally baptized, a married couple, having professed Christ. Not having a built in baptismal pool, the baptism was performed behind a Baptist Church located on Pine Creek, in Pennsylvania, that I was pastoring. Truly… there was ‘much water’ there, as this is a fairly large creek.

baptism via immersion A

Modes of Baptism

sacraments & ordinances

(2) Emphasis On Mode Over Element

I indeed baptize you with water

Mark 1:8 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.

I indeed have baptized you with water

Luke 3:16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:

I indeed baptize you with water

John 1:26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not;

I baptize with water

John 1:31 And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. John 1:33 And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.

therefore am I come baptizing with water
but he that sent me to baptize with water

Most immersionists put more emphases on a mode, of baptism with water, rather than on the element itself. It was only a few years after becoming an ordained Baptist pastor, that I became more focused on why John came baptizing ‘with water’, rather than trying to defend a particular mode he was using. The answer as to why John the Baptist came baptizing with water is obvious, when kept in context of the purpose of the element ‘water’, as used under the Old Covenant and in anticipation of the New Covenant, to be made with Israel.

John 3:25 Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.

Then there arose a question... about purifying

As demonstrated in the chart titled ‘Divers Washings’, usage of the element water is all about cleansing and purifying in Israel’s hallowing process. Reference to baptism with water, made by both Peter and the author of Hebrews, is on the element and not the mode!

whereunto even baptism doth also now save us
not the putting away of the filth of the flesh

Hebrews 10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

and our bodies washed with pure water

Once one focuses in on the element of water itself, there’s further understanding as to why the more orthodox churches adhere to modes of baptism via sprinkling and pouring. Questioning then begins towards those denominations who want to take focus away from the element and unto to a particular mode, such as immersion.

Life Experience: I’ll never forget challenging my then Methodist pastor on the issue of infant baptism and baptism with water via sprinkling. I’d recently come to saving faith, while attending a Christian technical college in Longview, Texas and had been attending an independent fundamental Baptist church, with several fellow students, where I was baptized. After returning home between semesters, I got engaged in conversation over the issue of baptizing babies. I jested that the practice could be proved in the bible where shown that water pistols were used to administer the baptism. Not so many years after that, I became desperate in trying to prove to myself the practice of immersion in the bible, as administered by Baptists. My go-to evidence ended up being where Naaman, the King of Israel, under the instruction of Elisha, washed himself dipping in Jordan seven times to be cleansed of his leprosy (2Ki 5:1-15). Obviously, I associated dipping with immersion.

(3) Where Jesus Was Standing

In trying to promote or defend baptism with water via immersion, much is made about two different scenarios, in which shows somebody being baptized; Jesus and the Ethiopian eunuch.

Both accounts are placed side by side for comparison.

Where was Jesus standing? A

Jesus’ Baptism with Water

Mark 1:8-10 I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost. 9 And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. 10 And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:

I indeed have baptized you with water
Jesus came... and was baptized of John in Jordan
straightway coming up out of the water
the Spirit like a dove descending upon him

The Ethiopian Eunuch’s Baptism with Water

they came unto a certain water
See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
And when they were come up out of the water
the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip

Much is made of these two passages in trying to prove immersion. What can really be proved by these accounts and what can be disproved, of certain claims, that are made regarding these accounts?

Verse 8 was intentionally included in Jesus’ account to pin point a construction within this next point. John the Baptist baptized ‘with’ water (v8) ‘in’ Jordan (v9). The expression ‘with water' doesn’t depict any particular mode! Though perhaps sounding somewhat trivial, John didn’t baptize Jesus ‘in’ water ‘in’ Jordan, but ‘with’ water ‘in’ Jordan. ‘With’ water gives more connotation of the mode being sprinkling or pouring, rather than submerging. In other words, did John the Baptist ‘dip’ Jesus ‘in’ Jordan or did he sprinkle or pour ‘with’ water, over Jesus ‘in’ Jordan? Remember, the Israelites ‘washed’ their clothes and the Hebrew writer described their bodies as being ‘washed’ with pure water.

The connection being put together here is that most immersionists have you believing that the Spirit was hovering over John and Jesus, to descend upon Jesus, as His head and shoulders ascended up out of the water. This can easily be proven false! Before commenting further on Jesus’ baptism, here we’ll draw from the eunuch’s baptism. Concerning the eunuch’s baptism, as with the case of John and Jesus, both Philip and the eunuch descend into water where Philip then baptizes the eunuch with water. No mode is indicated how! What is essential to note is what happens after the baptism. After the baptism… ‘they were come up out of the water’ and then… ‘the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip that the eunuch saw him no more:’. Returning back to Jesus’ baptism, it is clearly stated as to where Jesus was and when the Spirit descended… ‘And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:’ Jesus Himself, not just His head and shoulders, was coming up out of the water when the Spirit descended. Jesus was poised either on the bank or its edges when the Spirit descended with the Father making pronouncement… “Thou art My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased.” The immediate exit of Jesus, from the water, can be seen in the repetitious usage of the word ‘straightway’, as used three times within this chapter…

Mark 1:10 And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:

And straightway... coming up out of the water

Mark 1:18 And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.

And straightway...

Mark 1:20 And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.

And straightway...

No baptismal mode is implied in either Jesus’ or the eunuch’s baptisms. The exact wording regarding Jesus’ baptism of John is ‘with’ water ‘in’ Jordan and the passage in Acts 8 simply states, ‘they both went down into the water’ and ‘when they were come up out of the water’ (Ac 8:38-39). Just as Philip was caught away by the Spirit after exiting the water, so the Spirit descended upon Jesus after ‘straightway coming up out of the water’. Jesus was on the bank when descended upon by the Spirit, not standing in the water, as some immersionists would imply in the phrase, ‘coming up out of the water’.

(4) Symbolism

Intentionally or unintentionally, a more deceptive argument, made by most immersionist for immersion, is the symbolic symbolism it is supposed to show. True of the denomination I was ordained under and university I attended, there’s an insistence that baptism has to be via immersion, because baptism with water itself symbolizes the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. This can be debunked on so many levels.

First, when John the Baptist arrived on the scene, he preached the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, in preparing Israel for her Messiah. Neither John the Baptist or any of John’s converts approached baptism with water as symbolic of Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. Repentance and confession of sins was mandated for baptism… not a confession that Christ was going to be crucified and resurrected the third day!

Secondly, an appendix to the first point, the disciples spent three years of ministry with the Lord not knowing that Jesus was going to be crucified and resurrected the third day! As stressed elsewhere within this chapter and Theme Study, not only didn’t the disciples of the Lord understand, but this fact was ‘hid’ from them (Lk 18:31-34), as Peter and John stood outside the empty tomb not knowing yet the scripture that He must rise again from the dead (Jn 20:9). Neither baptizer or baptized ever viewed baptism with water as being symbolic of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ!

Without exception to the rule, when baptism with water is argued to picture the death, burial and resurrection of Christ, Romans 6:1-4 is the main go-to passage. Again, and with few exceptions to the rule, the hypocrisy is that there is admittance by same group of defenders that neither of the three references, of baptism in verses 3 & 4, is actually water!

that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ
were baptized into his death?
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death

The ‘few exceptions’ mentioned, would be from certain denominations that teach a mysterious union to the church and/or Christ, when a convert is immersed in baptismal water, by one who is ordained within that particular denomination. More on this later in the chapter.

What Did The Roman Recipients Understand?

It was with particular intention, to start this segment on baptism with water, with a chart paralleling two baptisms of Moses and Jesus, side by side, to be kept back in mind for within this discussion on the subject of baptism. To each, one a wet baptism, while the other, a dry baptism. The wet baptisms are distinct from the dry baptisms and MUST NOT be confused. The book of Romans was written to believing Gentiles, during the Acts period (who were of the faith of Abraham; Rom 4:16) and these Gentiles were well aware of the parallel baptism, in which Paul was alluding to in Romans 6:1-4.

Symbolism of Romans 6 C

Mixed Multitude Baptized unto Moses

Exodus 12:38 And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.

a mixed multitude went up also with them

how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea
And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea

Jew and Gentile Baptized into Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 12:12-13 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 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.

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles
and have been all made to drink into one Spirit

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.

For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ
There is neither Jew nor Greek...
if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise

Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles (Rom 11:13), experienced four separate baptisms… Paul was baptized ‘by’ the Spirit into Christ when either calling Jesus Lord, on the way to Damascus or when the scales fell from off his eyes in receiving sight (Acts 9:5-18; Rom 16:7). Paul was also baptized ‘with’ the Holy Ghost, as evident in his life as an apostle via signs, wonders and mighty deeds performed (Ac 9:17; 2 Cor 12:12). Along with his Damascus experience, Paul was baptized with water by Ananias, a devout man according to the law (Acts 22:11-16) and fourthly, Paul performed a few baptisms, as noted in 1Cor 1:14-17. All of these are covered more thoroughly in chapter titled, "Gentiles".

The baptism in Romans 6:3-4, is a dry spiritual baptism performed by the Spirit in identifying the believer in Christ. Any attempt to link this Spirit baptism, to baptism with water as typology in insisting on promoting the mode of immersion, is not only unscriptural, but in many cases… deceitful. Most who hold to this tradition is largely done in ignorance.

An On-Going Controversy Between the Church of Christ and Baptists

There has always been an on-going controversy between the Church of Christ and Baptists or between those denominations that insist baptism with water is essential for salvation and those denominations that don’t. Generally speaking, both are correct and both are wrong. Again, at the heart of this issue is not discerning between God justifying the circumcision ‘by’ faith and the uncircumcision ‘through’ faith.

Those denominations, that insist on baptism with water being essential for salvation today, fully recognize the ‘by faith’ principle in justification, as established since the beginning of time, when Adam was cast forth from the garden for disobedience. Since that time obedience, in one form or another, was demanded as criteria for righteousness, which is clearly demonstrated throughout the Old Testament. As a reminder… a just man under the Old Testament was one who was righteous before the Lord.

On the other hand and generally speaking, Baptists or those denominations that recognize doctrine, in the Pauline epistles that present salvation by grace and through faith without works, denounce the idea that baptism with water or works, ever had anything to do with justification… ever. As usual, there are exceptions to most rules, as it was a Baptist pastor who introduced me to ‘rightly dividing the word of truth’, though practicing baptism with water.

The conflict and confusion created, within this battleground, is over the mere fact that the Church of Christ and like-minded denominations, try forcing the ‘by faith' principle into this dispensation of grace in which we are saved ‘through’ faith. On the flip side, those denominations, understanding justification without works, fail to see or admit to that ‘by faith' principle, of obedience for salvation, prior to its introduction to and through Paul. Having stated that, there are Baptists or baptistic like-minded pastors, that present baptism with water as such in saying that baptism with water has nothing to do with one’s salvation, though after having been presented with the option of being baptized, to refuse… well then, question arises as to whether one was actually saved? At the university I attended, in Chattanooga TN, converts who walked the aisle, at invitation, were immediately baptized with water and in many cases, with no Introduction to Baptism with Water 101. The phrase, ‘buried with Him in baptism and raised again to walk in newness of life’, was always repeated during the actual immersion, of the one who just professed Christ.

The argument, between denominations as to what role baptism with water plays in salvation, will continue as long as there’s no discernment between God justifying the circumcision ‘by’ faith and the uncircumcision ‘through’ faith.

Baptist & Church of Christ

Universal Church Versus the Local Church

Discussion of the universal and local church often gets thrusted into the conversation of baptism with water. Many denominations teach that the universal church, or body of Christ, is made up from all denominations. Even within this mindset there is a reluctance of many churches to accept membership transferred from another church, when their theology doesn’t match on certain doctrine, especially baptism with water. Most churches, that demand immersion, will reject membership of those who were baptized otherwise. On the flip side, there are those churches that adhere to the local church, as being the body of Christ, and unless baptized by a particular representative of that denomination, into that church, one isn’t a member of the true body of Christ. For example, Baptist Bride or Landmarkism, try tracing the ordaining of their pastors back to the time of Christ, in the calling of His disciples, and unless baptized by one of their own, one is not a member of the Bride of Christ.

Life Experience: When a young pastor back in late 70’s and early 80’s, a young lady started attending the independent baptistic church I was pastoring. She was visited by some young men from a local Church of Christ congregation and she invited us to sit down for discussion. The two young men, around my same age at the time, professed to be apostles falling in line of apostleship that could be traced back to the time of Christ’s commissioning of His disciples. Of course, the subject of baptism with water was at the forefront and their goal was to get a profession of faith and the young woman baptized that very day. The two young apostles were baffled as I began agreeing with them concerning all the scripture indicating the need of baptism with water as part of the plan of salvation. We breezed through the Gospels and book Acts till the hick-up came in Acts 10. Contradiction to Acts 2:38 was clearly pointed out as I scripturally proved a Gentile having received the baptism with the Holy Ghost before having been baptized by Peter. I proceeded to show transition from the conversion of Paul in Acts 9. The two young apostles didn’t end up with a convert that day.

Certain religious sects or cults, such as Catholicism, Jehovah Witness and Mormons, tend to cater to a ‘one true church only’ doctrine, excluding all others.

Definition of Baptism

It is possible that it has never dawned upon the reader, until now, that definition to ‘baptism’ wasn’t given at the very beginning of this study. Defining the word ‘baptism’, was intentionally placed here towards the end of this study for a particular reason. Volumes have been written on the subject in trying to both define and defend its use determining on which doctrinal viewpoint is trying to be supported.

As I was beginning to seriously study the subject of baptism, as a very young man and pastor, I ran into a stumbling block in finding definition, to the word 'baptism', that actually worked. Early in ministry I was often amused or even frustrated at times, when a preacher or teacher, after having read a passage of scripture, would start off by saying… in the Greek this means… More times than not, the context of a passage or word gives definition to itself! A KJB will define itself if left alone. Contradiction and confusion comes in when someone runs to the Hebrew or Greek in trying to change something, from the way it was translated, for a particular reason that they have in mind. There is absolutely no question that a certain Greek passage or word can be translated more than one way, as I learned in the few Greek classes I took. The issue is that when you start messing with words, as written in the KJB, you then lose cross-referencing that proves a doctrine. Doctrine surrounding baptisms in the bible is an excellent example in case.

To prove my point, consider Strong’s Concordance on the various forms of the word baptism:

Strong’s Concordance

Baptist

Strong's Greek Dictionary

910. Βαπτιστής Baptistes (Baptistḗs)

Βαπτιστής Baptistḗs, bap-tis-tace'

from G907; a baptizer, as an epithet of Christ's forerunner:—Baptist.

masculine noun

Baptism

Strong's Greek Dictionary

908. βάπτισμα baptisma (báptisma)

βάπτισμα báptisma, bap'-tis-mah

from G907; baptism (technically or figuratively):—baptism.

neuter noun

Baptized

Strong's Greek Dictionary

907. βαπτίζω baptizo (baptízō)

βαπτίζω baptízō, bap-tid'-zo

from a derivative of G911; to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e. fully wet); used only (in the New Testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordinance of Christian baptism:—Baptist, baptize, wash.

verb

Reflecting back on the study, does the reader see an issue with these definitions? Try applying something, within Strong’s definitions, to the various bible baptisms in defining the word baptism itself:

baptism ‘unto’ Moses
baptism ‘with’ water
baptism ‘with’ the Holy Ghost
baptism ‘by’ the Spirit
baptism ‘with’ fire
baptism ‘into’ Christ
baptism of death.

Let’s look at it another way. Try coming up with a synonym for the word baptism or baptized. With most English words, more likely than not, a substitute word can easily be put in place with same or similar meaning. In all reality, isn’t this the money-making scheme behind the multitude of English translations today? Change a few words of similar meaning and resell it for profit, claiming the newer version is easier to read and understand. What word, used as a synonym, could be substituted for each of the various forms of ‘baptism’ used in the bible?

There is often an insistence, on behalf of immersionists, to force immersion, submersion or dipping in baptism’s definition. Does this always work? No! Consider the baptisms, ‘with’ the Holy Ghost and ‘with’ fire, along with the baptism of death:

he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost,
and with fire

Acts 10:45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.

because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost

Revelation 14:10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God
which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation

Matthew 20:22 But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.

Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of
and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?

Isaiah 53:12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

because he hath poured out his soul unto death

What are the odds that when John baptized ‘with’ water ‘in’ Jordan that a pouring technique of sorts was used instead of immersing?

Young’s Concordance

It has been with purposed intent to prove the doctrine of baptism with water, while remaining in context of the circumcision being justified ‘by’ faith. What role the element of water plays within this framework, starting with Moses’s baptism, the divers’ washings and on down through the ministries of John the Baptist and the Apostles, has been the focus.

Because of this commitment, I reserved discussion on the definition of the word ‘baptism’ till the very end, in demonstrating the added confusion to the subject, injected by those who want to box in the definition to meaning a certain thing.

From my personal viewpoint, Strong’s Concordance adds to the confusion without resolve.

Resulting from personal study, back in the mid to late 70’s, I came to deduction that the closest resource, that presented a bible-sense workable definition to the word ‘baptize’, was Young’s Concordance.

Young’s Concordance:

BAPTIZE, to – To consecrate (by pouring out on, or putting into), βαπτίζω baptízō,

Following is a Webster’s definition of the word ‘consecration’.

Definition: Consecration, n. The act or ceremony of separating from a common to a sacred use, or of devoting and dedicating a person or thing to the service and worship of God, by certain rites or solemnities. Consecration does not make a person or thing really holy, but declares it to be sacred, that is devoted to God or to divine service; as the consecration of the priests among the Israelites; the consecration of the vessels used in the temple; the consecration of a bishop. American Dictionary 0f The English Language; Noah Webster 1828

Again, from my personal viewpoint, Young's Concordance more accurately defines ‘baptize’ as–To consecrate by *pouring out on, or putting into. The word ‘consecrate’, not only can pass as a synonym, but also properly allows for the various modes of bible baptisms.

In the scriptures, a baptism is always associated with some type of a sanctifying, identifying or consecrating process, whether it be Israel ‘unto’ Moses, the believer ‘into’ Christ or a Jew believing and being baptized ‘with’ water, saving themselves from their untoward generation (Acts 2:38-40).

Notice how the word ‘consecration’ can be used as a synonym for ‘baptism’.

Consecration as a synonym for the word ‘baptism’:

Israel' national consecration unto Moses: 1Cor 10:2
Consecration 'with' water: Mt 3:11
Consecration 'with' the Holy Ghost: Mt 3:11; (*Acts 10:45 ‘poured’)
Consecration 'with' fire: Mt 3:11; (*Rev 14:10 ‘poured’)
The consecration 'by' the Spirit into the body of Christ: 1Cor 12:13; Rom 6:3
Christ's death consecration: Mk 10:35-39; Lk 12:50; (*Mt 26:12 ‘poured’)
Consecration for the dead: 1Cor 15:29

Now, contrast this with the words used in Strong’s Concordance. None of the words used in Strong's Concordance, to define ‘baptism’, can be used as a synonym in each case and make bible-sense in the context: immerse; submerge; overwhelmed. Immersion is even foreign to the scriptures and the entire definition has led to much confusion and wrong deductions on the subject.

Definition of Baptism

Baptism with Water

A foundational Doctrine for Israel

Hebrews is an essential book in understanding rightly dividing the word of truth. Hebrews, regardless of its author, was written to Jewish Christian converts, who lived during the Acts period, that tasted the good word of God and the powers of the world to come, now held in limbo. By now, these Jewish Christians well understood the delay in the return of Christ as written about by Peter, regarding the longsuffering of God, recognized in the unique ministry of Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles. These Jewish Christians were witnessing firsthand the Old Covenant vanishing away, while in waiting for the New Covenant yet to be established. No… we’re not living under the New Covenant today!

Foundational Doctrine B

Leaving the Principles of the Doctrine of Christ

Hebrews 6:1-5 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,

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
Of the doctrine of baptisms...

Hebrews 8:10-13 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: 11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest. 12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. 13 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.

A new covenant, he hath made the first old
Now that which decayeth and waxeth old
is ready to vanish away

The Longsuffering of the Lord

2 Peter 3:9-15 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

But the day of the Lord will come
And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you

1 Timothy 1:15-16 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. 16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering

What does this have to do within the conversation of baptism with water? Everything! A foundation of the principals of the doctrine of Christ, founded by the Apostles, were now to be laid down, to move on. The doctrine of baptisms, falls within this category of not laying again the foundation of repentance, from dead works, reminding us that faithful obedience was the key in justification ‘by’ faith for the circumcision… "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:" 1 Peter 3:21.

Baptism with water, as with the divers’ washings under the Old Covenant, was a ‘dead work’ to be lived out in obedience by those justified ‘by’ faith, under the kingdom gospel. The question now arises, to the reader, as to what and if this ‘dead work’ plays a role today in the lives of those justified ‘through’ faith, under Paul’s gospel, the gospel of the grace of God?

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