Priority Check

A couple going on vacation, standing in line waiting to check their bags at the airline counter. 

The husband said to the wife, "I wish we had brought the piano." The wife said, "Why? We've got sixteen bags already!" The husband said, "Yes, I know-- but the tickets are on the piano!" 

Sometimes we are so caught up with the secondary that we missed out on the primary. All of us sometimes comes across such circumstances. Yes or not?

This week have been so distracting to me even as pastor asked me to share this week. So many things come to distract us front the primary things.

We forget the priorities of our life among the secondary things.  The primary thing, is neglected. We can be taking care of our house, but not building a home. We can be living with our spouse, but not cultivating a marriage. I can serve faithfully at church, but not truly be serving the Lord. I can sing Christian songs and not really be worshipping. It can also be hard to distinguish between opportunities and distractions. 

This morning we are going to learn on the one thing that is needed of us – the one main priority in a Christian walk. We want to look at some nuggets of truth that the bible can show us.

Luke 10:38-42
Martha and Mary
38 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” 41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, 42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

This is the story of Jesus visiting the home of Mary and Martha. Jesus had three friends who lived in Bethany. He would occasionally stay in their home when He was in Judea. Lazarus, Mary and Martha were brother and sisters. We are not sure which is the older but bible scholars thinks its Martha that owns the house.

Luke doesn't tell us the name of the village, since it isn't important to his point, though from John's Gospel we know it is Bethany, just east of Jerusalem. Bethany was located on the Eastern slope of the Mount of Olives on the road linking Jerusalem to Jericho. It was about two miles from Jerusalem, or about a half hour's walk. 

It would have been a very convenient place for Jesus and His fellow Galileans to stay when visiting Jerusalem for a feast day or on some other occasion.

Interestingly, Luke puts this whole accounts after the parable of the Good Samaritan. 

There are three passages of Scripture that mention about Martha & Mary. 

They are LUKE 10:38-42 when Jesus taught in her home while she busied herself preparing food for her guests; 

JOHN 11:1-44 when Jesus raised her brother Lazarus from the dead

JOHN 12:2 when Jesus visited her home just six days before His crucifixion. We find her busy again preparing food while her sister Mary anoints Jesus' feet with costly perfume.

Martha – Distracted Priority

I believe Martha has a distracted priority. But Martha has a heart of hospitality. There is nothing wrong with being hospitable. 

Martha was given to hospitality (vs. 38). 

Luke recorded the following:

- She opened her home. 

- She prepared. (vs. 40) 

- Later we see her serving again. (John 12:2) 

"Martha opened her home to him." The verb is Greek hupodechomai, "receive, welcome, entertain as a guest." 

The same word is used when Zacchaeus invites Jesus into his home in Jericho (19:6), 

Rahab the harlot welcomes the Hebrew spies into her house in Jericho (James 2:25)

There is nothing wrong with Hospitality. Hospitality is a trait that is commended in scripture:

Rom 12:13 (KJV) Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. 

1 Tim 3:2 (KJV) A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 

1 Tim 5:10 (KJV) Well reported for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. 

1 Pet 4:9 (KJV) Use hospitality one to another without grudging. 

In my younger days when a guest come to our home my dad will tell my mum to cook a meal. Today it's easier, we just call Domino's Pizza. Nowadays we don't cook that much, just drinks maybe. Mary opened her home to Jesus. Mary and Martha are believers of Jesus of Nazareth. They are believers so this message is for believers.

Open your home means inviting Jesus into your home. To have fellowship in your house. Hospitality is commended in the bible. But church, hospitality should not distract us from the Lord. Our ministry, our service, our job should not distract us from setting the RIGHT Priority. She was so busy she had no time to listen to Jesus.

What, then, was wrong with Martha's actions?

Martha was too busy serving to listen to Jesus. Luke use the word distracted to describe her issue.

John Wesley in Wesley’s Notes said this on “distracted” (Greek : perispao) - The Greek word properly signifies to be drawn different ways at the same time, and admirably expresses the situation of a mind, surrounded (as Martha's then was) with so many objects of care, that it hardly knows which to attend to first."

The word translated "distracted" is Greek perispao, "

1. 'be pulled or dragged away.' 

2. 'become or be distracted, quite busy, overburdened."

In her concern for the tasks at hand, she lost sight of who was in the room, and what he was saying.  

Martha is more concerned about entertaining her guest rather listen to "what Jesus has to say" (i.e. the Word of God).

Martha was busy preparing a big meal but she fails to realize there is a Savior who is able to multiply 5 loaves and 2 fishes to feed 5 thousand men (Luke 9:10-17)

Friends, today we might be in the same shoes too ……We are so busy serving the Lord that we fail to listen to Jesus? Should anything ever take precedence? 

Martha was so distracted she did not know that Jesus was in the the house to speak the words of life. How many of us are like Martha? We are serving in church, as cell leaders, board members etc that we forgot what is the number priority is walking with Jesus.

In her distraction, she tries to get her sister away from doing the right thing. She asked Jesus to tell the sister to come and help her. She tried to lead someone away from listening to Jesus. 

Quote: Robert E. Wenger :  “Many of us, like Martha, are activists who believe devotion to Christ is directly proportional to busyness. We involve ourselves in church activities to the point of distraction; then we become critical of those who are less involved. We even ask God to deepen their spirituality and increase their loyalty." 

Martha’s problem was that she failed to see the importance of spending time sitting at the feet of Jesus.  

Maybe Jesus didn't want a big meal, but rather a time of fellowship. 

Friends, Martha’s SERVICE was commendable, but her PRIORITY was wrong. 

Mary – Determined Priority

Lets look at Mary now. Mary had a determined priority. She knew what she had to do. 

The verb  “sat at the Lord’s feet” is Greek parakathizo, "sit down beside someone," but the rest of the sentence explains that she was actually sitting not directly beside him -- a place of honor -- but at his feet, a place of humility -- and probably attention. Figuratively, "at his feet" seems to have been the phrase connoting a disciple or learner. 

Similar like Paul at the feet of Gamaliel (Acts 22:2)

"Sitting at Christ's feet, signifies readiness to receive his word, and submission to the guidance of it."

Some of her actions that is recorded in Luke & John includes: 

- Hear his words (Luke 10:39) 

- Go to Him in times of need (John 11:32) 

- Worship Him openly and extravagantly. (John 12:3) 

Sitting at the feet shows readiness to submit and receive guidance from Jesus. It says Mary hears his word. This is not a one time affair. If you read other passages, you'll find Mary fell at the feet of Jesus. Three accounts altogether.

Mary knew how to ignore distractions. 

In Jesus’ time there was no reason for a woman to be sitting at a rabbi’s feet. Mary should have been helping Martha.

 In first century Jewish thought the women’s sphere was the home. A woman learned everything she would need to know to be a wife and mother and run a household. She was not required to learn the Torah or to engage in religious activity that would take her out of the home for an extended period of time. They are supposed to be a DO. Dapur Officer. She went beyond culture. 

Martha surely had complained to Mary many times before she got upset enough to approach Jesus about it, yet Mary could say no to her. 

Her actions in John 12 brought disapproval from the crowd. Yet she ignored the crowd and pleased the Lord. Like the perfume she used on Jesus' feet. Many said she is wasting the expensive perfume. Even Judas a follower of Jesus told Mary that she can sell it for much. The crowd came against her action. 

There are many things that might be distracting us from spending quality time with the Lord.

Media, Relationship, Our Work, Our Routine, Hobbies, Church/Religion

QUOTE: Sadhu Sundar Singh:  “Once I was sitting upon the shore of a lake. As I sat there I noticed some fish who came up to the surface and opened their mouths. At first I thought they were hungry and that they were looking for insects, but a fisherman told me afterwards that although they can breathe quite well under water they have to come up to the surface every now and again to inhale deep draughts of fresh air, or they would die. It is the same with us. The world is like an ocean; we can live in it, carry on our work and all our varied occupations, but from time to time we need to receive fresh life through prayer. Those Christians who do not set apart quiet times for prayer have not yet found their true life in Christ.”

Today there are a lot of cultures that are distracting us from Jesus. Culture of Korean shows. There are so many things distracting us Christians. The invention of smartphone distract us more and more. First thing we do in the morning we check our emails our messages our Facebook. I am guilty of that too.

Mary was almost distracted by the Jewish culture but she chose to spend time at the feet of Jesus. Mary was also ignoring the crowd. Like the perfume she used on Jesus' feet. Many said she is wasting the expensive perfume. Even Judas a follower of Jesus told Mary that she can sell it for much. The crowd came against her action.

That is what the crowd is saying to us today? So many draws us away from spending quality time with Jesus. Now is the fasting and praying period. How many of us is doing that? Or are we feasting and playing?

Mary learnt the secret of spending time at the feet of Jesus. We too need to learn to spend time at the feet of Jesus.

Jesus is looking for your precious time. He is not looking for your spare time. Too many times we offer our spare time to Jesus.

QUOTE: C.S. Lewis says, “When first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased…The moment you wake up each morning, all your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists in shoving it all back; in listening to that other voice, taking that other point of view, letting that other, larger, stronger, quieter life come flowing in.”

Jesus said this, that one thing is needed and Mary has chosen the good part. There are choices and alternatives that we can take. But Mary made a conscious decision, she chose to sit at Jesus' feet. She chose to go against the culture, the critics.

People make choices. They are a part of life.

We have to make a choice as to whether we seek the good part. Jesus tells us our highest priority in life should be to Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Our daily choices affect our lives, and the end result of this life is determined by the choices we make every day. Jesus said Mary chose "that good part."

Will you make a choice to spend time at the feet of Jesus? It is time for Priority Check.

Is Jesus whispering your name, possibly even twice, today, to get your attention? He gently rebukes us and tells us to allow Him to put His arms around us and cut off the strings that attach us to “many things” and then invite us to come to His feet and find the one thing that is necessary.

God's Covenant

Rev Phillip Sung

I was in Penang many years ago at PPC. Penang is my favourite place for food. My daughter was actually born here.

There are two overriding theme or DNA of the bible. The covenant has to do with relationship with God. Our being or who we are. We are a covenant people with a relationship with God.

The other aspect is the kingdom. The kingdom of God has to do with responsibility. We are the representative of God. Christ's ambassadors. We need the being and the doing. This is the two strength of the Christian when we read the bible.

1. Covenant with God.

Genesis 15:18
On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram and said, “To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates –

God made a covenant with Abraham. In the Old Testament is the old covenant. God told Abraham he will bless him with a nation of many people. The New Testament is the new covenant. The new covenant of grace and blessings.

Genesis 15:1
God’s Covenant With Abram
1 After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision:
“Do not be afraid, Abram.
I am your shield,
your very great reward.”

God said He will bless Abraham. He will also bless his descendants and the people. Abraham after many years was still childless but God said as many as the stars in heaven that will be the number of his many descendants. God reckon him as righteous as he lived by faith. Without which it is impossible to please God. He was the father of faith.

There are two types of covenant then. Between equals and non equals. Like marriage. It's a covenant of equals. It's not a contract. It is a covenant of trust. Total commitment for their total life. In the marriage vow it is made by two equals even though old thinking think man is more superior. Just look at the marriage vow. Everything is shared. One flesh. Shared bank account. What is mine is yours and what is yours in mine.

There is also the unequal covenant. Like when the land is conquered and the king make a covenant to his subject. This is called the suzerain covenant. This is unequal. Just like God's covenant with us. He is the creator of the universe and owns everything and now He makes a covenant with us. How great is that?

Genesis 15:9-10
So the Lord said to him, “Bring me a heifer, a goat and a ram, each three years old, along with a dove and a young pigeon.”
10 Abram brought all these to him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other; the birds, however, he did not cut in half.

This was God's covenant with us and it has to do with blood. Just like Jesus paying the price for us on the cross. Blood was shed and we have a relationship with God. And with the blood sacrifice we can come to God. We now have access to God. We have all His blessings under this new covenant with God.

If I were to partner a badminton player, I will probably pick Lee Chong Wei as partner. The world's No. 1 badminton player. Even though I may not play well, I stand a chance when I partner Lee Chong Wei. If we want to overcome the devil, we will want to partner with God.

2. Covenant Lifestyle.

Genesis 17:1-2
The Covenant of Circumcision
1 When Abram was ninety- nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless. 2 I will confirm my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers.”

God expect us to be blameless. There is a lifestyle change. Abraham and Sarah were given new names as the children of God and they have to walk differently. God's children have to reflect God's identity. It's the image of the Father. We can't put behavior before identity. As children of God we have to reflect God. A radical change from darkness to light.

We have to have that scar of circumcision. It is a sign that we fulfill a covenant. It is a constant reminder of our covenant with God. It's a painful experience that reminds us of this covenant.

God is not only for us, with us, one of us but also in us. We are the temple of the Holy Spirit. The ark of the covenant is a wonderful picture of God in us. We are a new creation. We have this covenant lifestyle because God is in us. 24/7. In our home especially. We can be a Christian is church, school or work but in the home it is hardest to be a Christian. We are our true self at home. God change and transform us to have a godly lifestyle.

Genesis 22:1-2
Abraham Tested
1 Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!”
“Here I am,” he replied.
2 Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.”

This was a very important test in his life. The final test. To take his only son and sacrifice to God. I wonder how many of us can pass this test? Covenant works both ways. Now God wants his most precious in return. God says everything that's mine is yours and now everything that's ours is His.

Abraham's obedience was immediate. Delayed obedience is disobedience. The next morning. Not delayed obedience. The teenager son asked Abraham where was the sacrifice and Abraham said God will provide. Isaac was a picture of Jesus. How can an old man tie up his teenage son? It was a picture of obedience unto death.

Abraham passed the test with flying colours. What a wonderful example. Jesus wants us to be His disciples. Be followers of Christ. But some of us are Christians by name only and is not willing to follow after Jesus. Jesus said to deny yourself, take up the cross and follow after Him daily. Bottom line is commitment. To be obedient like the son of Abraham. Total obedience.

It's been over 40 years I have made a covenant with God and there are no regrets. We can trust God regardless of circumstances. In our problems we can only OGK. Only God Knows. Like Paul asking God to take away the thorn is his flesh but God says my grace is sufficient for you.

Leave your old identity behind and live your new identity with God. He is the centre of it all. It is knowing Jesus and obeying Jesus and everything else will fall into place. I think it's a good deal amen? Amen.

 

Rev Phillip praying for those that responded to the altar call.

John 3:16

Rev Gideon Lee

John 3:16

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

This is one verse that all Christians know. But do you know what was the context when He said this verse?

John 3:1-3
Jesus Teaches Nicodemus
1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council. 2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him.”
3 In reply Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again. ’”

In John 3:16, Jesus gave the reply to Nicodemus. He being a Jewish council member, he had to come and see Jesus at night. If it was day time, it may be a scandal.

Nicodemus was looking for eternal life. How he can be saved. Jesus told Nicodemus that he needed a spiritual birth.

Jesus was talking to a religious person. How can a religious person not know how to be saved? Jesus was saying all the good works of this religious man was not enough to save him. You can be religious and not know God. Just like the saying - Going to McDonalds does not make you a hamburger. Going to church doesn't make you a Christian.

Jesus was talking about a very important fact. This verse is so pivotal when we do evangelism, when we want to share Jesus.

What if John 3:16 were not true? Where will we be today? Do you know the song by John Lennon, Imagine. He said imagine if there is no heaven. And no religion too.

What if God had not loved the world? 

What if just for argument sake God did not love the world. I have conducted Christian funerals, and there is this stark difference. I see in a non Christian funeral, you see a people with no hope. Wailing and hopeless. In a Christian funeral yes there is sadness but there is hope.

If God did not love this world there would be no hope and no reason for our existence. Every grave would be a place of despair. It would be a very dark place. But the good news is that this verse is true. Every thing in creation shouts how much He loved us and it is culminated with Jesus going to the cross for us.

What about the next line. That He gave His only begotten Son. What happens if God did not give His only Son? Often we say "I love you" but it is only words if we do not show it. Love demands giving and sacrifice. If there were no action and giving, it is only empty promises.

Why does the women clean up after the family, the washing and cleaning? Because in her heartbeat is her love for her family. Love must always come with giving. If God did not give His only Son, we will never know of God's love. It would only have been empty words. Love requires an action and that's why God sent His only begotten Son.

If death is the end, then what's the point? We might as well live our life any way we want. He sent His only Son to the cross for you and I.

What if God's offer of salvation is not for whosoever?

Whosoever means everyone and anyone. Let's imagine what if He didn't say it is not for whoever? What if it's only for the rich people? I am not against the rich ok? I love the rich as much as I love the poor. Or what if He came only for those who score 4.0 CGPA. Or what if it's only for those who come to church every Sunday, pay his tithes, gross not nett and attends prayer meetings? I hope that God is not like that. If He did not say whosoever, we would not be here. We would have fallen short. God is saying it's open to everyone. His salvation. God loves this world and I thank God that you can put your name to replace the word world. For God so loved Gideon that He gave His only begotten Son. He did not exclude anyone.

I pray that the gospel is not so exclusive that it is only for the elite. How do we know it's for everyone? How many of you have shared the gospel to someone in the last month? Or have shared with someone who is not of our race. Or someone who is not of our status. I pray that we do not make it exclusive. Sometimes we do it with our actions or inactions. How many of you this Raya visited your Muslim friends. How many of you have Muslim friends? I want to make sure I myself have Malay friends. They are in my Facebook and they know I am a pastor. This gospel is for everyone.

Lastly, what is God's offer is not based on faith alone.

Whosoever believes. What is it is not based in faith alone? Imagine this scenario. Those trying to get to God through good works. There are people who are sincere and honest. Even more so than Christians.

Ephesians 2:8-9
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith –and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God– 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

For those people trying to get to God through good works, my question is how much good works? A lot? Can you imagine how many good works we have to do? Can someone tell you how much good works is needed?

Scenario 2, people try to go to heaven by obeying God's law. Can you imagine you follow all the laws of God but you break one on your dying bed and you miss heaven?

Isaiah 64:6
All of us have become like one who is unclean,
and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags;
we all shrivel up like a leaf,
and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

Scenario 3. Who was beside Jesus on the cross? Two thieves right? What did one thief did? One mocked Jesus while the other said Jesus did not do anything wrong to deserve this. What did Jesus said to the second thief? He said today he will be in paradise with Jesus. How can someone like this thief enter the kingdom of God? He had faith in Jesus. He said to Jesus, remember me.

I dread to think if our salvation is based on good works. We will not be here. It would be a sad day.

John 3:16 is true. I thank God that He loved the world enough that He sent His only Son and that gift is for everyone and that it is based on my faith in Jesus.

This morning I hope that John 3:16 is a reminder to us that this is the essence of why He came, His mission. And that we have to open our doors and do our best to bring everyone in.

Doctrines of the Bible Module 5 - The Church Lesson 9

Please note that these are posted online with permission from the writer for the benefit of those who attended the Bible Study class. However, please do not re-post or copy content without prior permission from Bro Koay Kheng Hin.

Note: Text that are in grey are transcribed during the lesson and is not part of the physical lesson notes supplied which are rendered in black.

Lesson 9 - Building the church and the gifts of the Holy Spirit

Overview on the Church:

1. Nature: Believers by faith – Israel and Gentiles entering the church by faith. (The separation between Israel and Gentiles – Israel: Abrahamic promise (Millenium) > Eternal (Gentiles and Israel) - One Church
2. Marks: Right preaching, Right administration of the sacraments
3. Purposes: Exaltation, edification and evangelism
4. Purity and Unity: A test of reference
5. Church Governance: Plural eldership (congregational)
6. Church Leadership: Spiritual and servant hood in nature
7. Baptism: Identification with Christ’s death
8. Lord’s Supper: Memorial/spiritual presence

A The Person building the church

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. (Matt 16:18)

Behind all our efforts in ministry we need to always remember that it is Jesus Christ  who is building His church. We are merely vessels used by the Lord to accomplish His purposes.  The mention of the gates of Hades states the nature of the opposition that the church faces. It is spiritual opposition from demonic forces. The rock on which the church is built is Peter’s confession of faith in Jesus as the Messiah (v.16). Jesus Christ is the foundation rock on which the church is built.

The Person building the Church > Jesus Christ.

Matthew 16:13-18

Peter Declares That Jesus Is the Messiah

¹³ When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”

¹⁴ They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”

¹⁵ “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”

¹⁶ Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

¹⁷ Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. ¹⁸ And I tell you that you are Peter,^[a] and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades^[b] will not overcome it.

What did Jesus mean when he mentioned the word “rock”?

Roman Catholic Church interpretation:  Peter is the rock.

Protestant Church interpretation : Based on Verse 16. The rock refers to Peter’s confession of faith in Christ Jesus as the Messiah.

B The Power to build the church

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. (Acts 1:8)

The power to build the church is the power of the Holy Spirit. However it must be noted that we are not to be witnesses to the Holy Spirit. By the Spirit’s power we are enabled to be witnesses to Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit does not draw attention to Himself but  He will bring glory to Jesus (John 16:14) and lead us to Him. The extent of the proclamation of the gospel is the whole earth. 

Acts 1: 8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Power of the Holy Spirit (Charismata) - power for ministry

C The Means to build the church

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines. (1 Cor 12: 7-11)

The means to build the church is through the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Every member of the body of Christ has been given some spiritual gift that is an evidence of the Spirit’s working in his life. All the gifts are intended to build up members of the Christian community (1 Pet 4: 10-11)(1 Cor 14: 12). They are not to be used for selfish advantage, as some in the Corinthian community apparently were doing. The Holy Spirit sovereignly determines which gift or gifts each believer should have.

Related passages referring to the gifts of the Holy Spirit: (1 Cor 12:28 , 1 Cor 7:7 ,  Eph 4:11 , 1 Pet 4:11 , Rom 12: 6-8 )

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit – Power actualized in our lives

1 Cor. 12: 7-11

⁷ Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. ⁸ To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, ⁹ to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, ¹⁰ to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,^[a] and to still another the interpretation of tongues.^{[b] 11} All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

1 Pet 4: 10-11

¹⁰ Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. ¹¹ If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

1 Cor. 14:12

So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.

1 Cor. 12:28 

And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues.

1 Cor. 7:7

I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.

Eph. 4:11-13

¹¹ So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, ¹² to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up ¹³ until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

1 Pet 4:11

If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Rom 12: 6-8

⁶ We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your^[a] faith; ⁷ if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; ⁸ if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,^[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

Cessation of Gifts 

1 Cor. 13: 8-12

⁸ Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. ⁹ For we know in part and we prophesy in part, ¹⁰ but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. ¹¹ When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. ¹² For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

There will come a time when all the gifts will cease but…..when?

It will cease at the second coming of Christ (based on verse 12 – then we shall see face to face – with Jesus Christ). 

Special Note: *No problem with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit BUT the way the gifts are exercised is the problem!

John 16:14

 He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you.

The Holy Spirit brings glory to Jesus Christ.

1 Cor. 14:12

So it is with you. Since you are eager for gifts of the Spirit, try to excel in those that build up the church.

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are intended to edify and to build up the church.

Caution: Don’t be caught up with the power of the Holy Spirit or to self. It is about bringing glory to Jesus Christ.

What is difference between Spiritual gifts and Spiritual manifestations?

1 Cor. 12: 7-11

⁷ Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. ⁸ To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, ⁹ to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, ¹⁰ to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,^[a] and to still another the interpretation of tongues.^{[b] 11} All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.

Speaking in tongues and prophesies and healing - examples Spiritual gifts

Holy laughter and rolling on the floor – examples of spiritual manifestations

Acts 1:8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Witness or to bring credit for Jesus Christ

Ministry – Gifts of the Holy Spirit (TO DO)

Minister – Fruit of the Holy Spirit (TO BE)

 D The Maturity of the church

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever –increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. (2 Cor 3: 18)

The church matures as its members grow into Christlikeness. The reference here is to the process of Christian sanctification. We are to grow in exhibiting the fruit of the Holy Spirit : the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (Gal 5: 22-23). A corresponding aspect of spiritual maturity is that of holding to sound doctrine (1 Tim 4: 16).

Questions

1 What is the difference between a spiritual gift and a spiritual ‘manifestation’?

2 How does natural talent and natural disposition relate to a person’s spiritual gift?

3 Contrast spiritual gifting with spiritual maturity.

4 Between character and charisma,  which do you think is more important? 

Spiritual maturity is Christlikeness – doctrine and the fruit of the Holy Spirit

1 Tim. 4:16

Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Related sermon

The dunamis power of the gospel

Introduction

In recent weeks our nation is in the grip of GE13. We are now in a politically charged atmosphere. I believe that quite a number of you may be attending ‘ceramah’ at night. I gather there are two types of ‘ceramah’ around. There is the type where you don’t have to fork out money and on top of that you get free food and if you are fortunate you may end up getting to ride a motorbike home from the lucky draw. There is the other type where you may fork out money voluntarily but you get no food. 

Whatever it is, political ceramah is about power-political power. Mao Tse Tung once said , “Power flows from the barrel of a gun”. Of course this ardent communist who is anti-God got it all wrong. In a democracy like ours political power flows from the vote in the ballot box. This is right in every sense of the institution of parliamentary democracy. So happy voting come 5^th May. But of course every voting needs to be done in prayer just like every other decision that we make. A prayerful vote that justice and righteousness will prevail in our nation as the prophet Jeremiah records as the delight of the Lord in

Jer 9: 24. 

However, this morning it is my task to still your heart and draw you from this politically charged environment and to draw you to our Lord Jesus Christ so that he may charge you not politically but spiritually. And I want to emphasize that there is a greater power than political power and i.e. the divine power of the gospel. 

Message

Mat 24:14 There is a gospel of the kingdom to be preached. And inherent in it is kingdom power .

Rom 1:16-17 The gospel has an inherent power  a kingdom power that saves. It has that power to transform the human heart, to regenerate it , to make it born again. That salvation sourced from the gospel has the power to take away the penalty of sin, to set you free from the bondage of sin and to bring reconciliation between you and God. It is an inner dunamis that works on the human heart and it far exceeds political power that may be able to change only human institutions  and events but which can do nothing to transform the disposition of the human heart. 

Wherein lies this dunamis of the gospel?

 It is found in the power of truth. Yes

John 8:32 The truth will indeed set you free. There is both the objective aspect ;the content of the gospel that forgiveness of sins can be obtained through Jesus Christ. And the subjective aspect that the truth refers to the person of Christ in your relationship with him he sets you free. This power becomes effective in you by faith and through that faith the righteousness of Christ is imputed to you. 

From Rom 1:15 we see that this gospel needs to be preached; to be proclaimed in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit does two things. First He brings life into the word that from mere letter it becomes spiritual truth rhema that transforms your heart. Second He testifies to the truth of the gospel by signs , wonders and various miracles. The word dunamis is used for miracles. It is an outward  divine power that works an external sign to testify to the truth of the gospel. 

In John 20:30-31, the apostle John affirms the objective of miraculous signs, to help you to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the truth of the gospel.  

As Jesus ministers to the people, he is always preaching the gospel, drawing people to Him. Often his miracles of healing are occasions for him to teach spiritual truths. In John 9:5-7 he heals a man born blind. And further down in v35-41, he speaks of the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees. We do well to know that miracles serve as points of contact ; not points of focus. They draw us to Christ Jesus. Let us not then draw and focus upon miracles but let us focus on the person behind the miracles. It is only then that we can focus upon what has eternal value. In Acts 3 we see Peter healing the crippled beggar and using the occasion to preach the gospel. 

Conclusion

Political power in all its necessity is still temporal in nature. It is the dunamis of the gospel that results in a salvation that holds eternal value. Let us not lose sight of the fact that as a church we are invested with the greatest power on earth that far surpasses any political power. It is the dunamis of the gospel, the kingdom power of the gospel and we will cry as one with the apostle Paul that indeed the gospel is the power of God for salvation of everyone who believes. Amen!

Doctrines of the Bible Module 5 - The Church Lesson 8

Please note that these are posted online with permission from the writer for the benefit of those who attended the Bible Study class. However, please do not re-post or copy content without prior permission from Bro Koay Kheng Hin.

Note: Text that are in grey are transcribed during the lesson and is not part of the physical lesson notes supplied which are rendered in black.

Lesson 8 - The ordinance of the Lord's Supper

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, 'Take and eat; this is my body."

Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine from now until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father*s kingdom." When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. (Mat 26:26-30)

The Lord's Supper did not appear from nowhere. The background is from the passover. In fact it was instituted during the Passover meal. The Jews understood this. Exodus 12. This was from the time when God told Moses that he will send a final plague and the firstborn of every Egyptian would be killed. God's judgement passed over every home where blood was painted on the door posts. It was after that the Pharaoh told Moses to take the Israelites out. The Passover is in remembrance of what God has done to deliver them out of Egypt. There was both a remembrance and a promise. The Jews remembered God delivering them from bondage in Egypt. The promise is they will be brought into the promise land. 

The Israelites would not have left Egypt if it is just to go to the desert. It is a land of milk and honey that caused them to want to leave Egypt. The desert was only for a while but it ended up to be 40 years. 

This is one of the most disputed theological sentence in the bible. 

We want to see the How, What, Who

HOW - This is my body

Is it literal or symbolic? Until now this is not resolved. Thomas Aquinas, a Roman Catholic theologian in the 13th century dogmatised the Lord's Supper (Transubstantiation). See B1.

The Roman Catholic came up with this is because the Lord's Supper is necessary for salvation. 

Everytime the mass is celebrated, the sacrifice of Christ is repeated (in some sense). So for a real sacrifice, the body of Christ must be present in some form. 

To address this issue we raise the question, where is Jesus now?

The glorified body of Christ is now in heaven, seated next to the Father. Jesus is also God and at the same time omnipresent. 

Our response is:

John 19:30 When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

It is a finished work so the sacrifice need not be repeated. 

Hebrews 10:12 But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God.

The sacrifice of Christ is once and for all. 

Martin Luther in the 16th century came up with the Consubstantiation view. See B2

This view is no different from Transubstantiation except instead of the element changing into the actual blood and body of Christ but contain it. 

Zwingli came out with the view that it is just a memorial, symbolic of the body and blood of Christ. From the term remember. 

Finally John Calvin came out with a view where it disagrees with all the others. He believe it is a memorial and is symbolic but a real (true) spiritual presence of the Lord. See B3

Matthew 18:20 For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”

WHAT - Forgiveness of sin

When we take the Lord's Supper, what do we remember him for? Are we focused on spiritual blessings or physical (temporal) blessings. Forgiveness of sin is spiritual blessing and the coming of Christ (future kingdom of God). 

1 Corinthians 11:23-34 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” 25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. 27 Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28 A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 29 For anyone who eats and drinks without recognising the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself. 30 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. 31 But if we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment. 32 When we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world. 33 So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for each other. 34 If anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you meet together it may not result in judgment. And when I come I will give further directions.

• Remembrance of Jesus
• Proclaim the Lord's death
• Until He comes

When a person who seek physical healing, financial provision and peace, he is seeking the temporal. Anything you need here and not in heaven is temporal. Is it wrong? No but all these are secondary benefits of the Lord's death. 

When Paul says to proclaim the Lord's death, it is not about proclaiming the incident but rather the spiritual significance, that is the forgiveness of sin. 

The sacrifice of Christ is for the propitiation of sin and we now have reconciliation and is now redeemed from the bondage of sin. 

When we remember Him during Lord's Supper, we remember the above. And that He will come back. See A4. 

Perhaps the most blessed and most solemn ordinance of the church is the Lord's Supper. On the night before his crucifixion our Saviour gathered his disciples together in an upper room to eat the feast of the Passover. He was about to die as the true Passover Lamb for the atonement of our sins. The Jews ate the Passover supper in anticipation of redemption, as it was portrayed in the deliverance of Israel from the bondage of Egypt. And, on the eve of his crucifixion, our Lord consecrated the supper to us as a memorial celebration of redemption by him.

For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, 'This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.

Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without recognising the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment to himself. That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. But if we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment. When we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world.

So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for each other. If anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you meet together it may not result in judgment. And when I come I will give further directions. (1 Cor 11:23-34)

A. WHAT is the Meaning of the Lord's Supper?

There are several things symbolised and affirmed in the Lord's Supper.

1. When we participate in the Lord's Supper, we symbolise the death of Christ because our actions give a picture of his death for us. It also symbolises that we participate in or share in the benefits(blessings) earned for us by the death of Jesus. (1Cor 11:26)

2. The bread and wine of the Lord's Supper picture the fact that there is spiritual nourishment that Christ is giving to our souls. (1Cor 11:26) (John 6:53-57)

John 6:53-57 Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. 54 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. 56 Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him. 57 Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me.

This is about spiritual nourishment. 

3. When Christians participate in the Lord's Supper together, they also give a clear sign of their unity with one another. (1Cor 11:29) (1Cor 10:17)

1 Corinthians 11:29 For anyone who eats and drinks without recognising the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgment on himself.

The body of the Lord. This body has got 2 meaning. One is the bread which is the body of Christ but Paul wrote this also meaning the church, where there is a unity of spirit, coming together as a body of Christ. 

4. The Lord's Supper is to be observed in remembrance of Christ. We remember his glorious person, his gracious works and his great promises. (1 Cor 11:24) (1 Cor 5:7)

B. HOW is Christ Present in the Lord's supper ?

1. The Roman Catholic View: Transubstantiation

The bread and wine actually become the physical body and blood of Christ. The bread and wine changes into the body and blood of Christ.

2. The Lutheran Protestant View: Consubstantiation

The physical body of Christ is present "in, with, and under" the bread of the Lord's Supper. The bread and wine contains the body and blood of Christ.

3. The non-Lutheran Protestant View: Symbolism and Spiritual Presence

The bread and wine symbolise the body and blood of Christ and Christ is spiritually present as we partake of the bread and wine. (Matt 18:20)

C. WHO Should Participate In the Lord's Supper?

All those who believe in Christ should participate in the Lord's Supper. However there must be some form of self-examination to ensure that we will not eat the bread and drink the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner. The Lord's Supper is definitely not for unbelievers. (1 Cor 11:28)

Questions

1. Is it biblical for a sick Christian to partake of the Lord's Supper primarily to obtain healing grace for his sickness ?

No. Because of the word primarily. The Lord's Supper has bigger implications. However, when the spiritual presence of Christ is in our midst, miracles happens but it is not what we seek primarily. We seek the spiritual blessings first and not the temporal. 

2. Should we allow children to partake of the Lord's Supper?

We should not after having studied this through. When we say children, we look at age. When the child can articulate that they are saved and can comprehend it then it is time. Once they have a consciousness that they are a Christian. Maybe 12-14. 

3. What is meant by partaking of the Lord's Supper in an unworthy manner ? Can a Christian whose life is not perfectly holy partake of the Lord's Supper?

Self examination - worthy or unworthy. What is meant by unworthy? The state of your heart is important. It is not talking about perfect holiness. It is about ignorance, repentance and rebellion. don't examine someone else. It's about you and the Lord. 

4. What will happen to an unbeliever who partakes of the Lord's Supper?

The bible says there will be judgement. And God uses the word discipline. And discipline is often for our good. And this is for the believer.

For the unbeliever, the wrath of God is on him. The unbeliever is under the law of God or his conscience. The believer, God disciplines. But when judgement falls under an unbeliever there is no special grace upon him. He will be judged not disciplined. What judgement? We do not know. Unless he took out of ignorance where I believe in cases like them they will not be judged. It is the state of the heart. 

Doctrines of the Bible Module 5 - The Church Lesson 7

Please note that these are posted online with permission from the writer for the benefit of those who attended the Bible Study class. However, please do not re-post or copy content without prior permission from Bro Koay Kheng Hin.

Note: Text that are in grey are transcribed during the lesson and is not part of the physical lesson notes supplied which are rendered in black.

Lesson 7 - The Ordinance of Water Baptism

1st Century - Apostolic Age - Book of Acts

2nd - 4th Century - Age of the Early Church (Church Fathers) - Immediate baptism, no infant baptism, Immersion

5th - 15th Century - Roman Catholic Church - Catechesis, Infant Baptism, Sprinkling

16th Century onwards - Reformation - shorter catechesis, infant baptism, sprinkling

20th Century Onwards - Protestant Church, AOG - very short catechesis, no infant baptism, immersion

The key words are When, Who, How. 

Matthew 3:13-16

The Baptism of Jesus

13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. 14 John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. 16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him;

This passage covers the basics. The necessity of baptism. Jesus himself was baptised. In Jesus case, there was no conversion so instant baptism does not apply. This verse also says Jesus after baptism came out of the water so theologians say it cannot be sprinkling. Sprinkling is water on you, not you out of the water. 

Matthew 28:19-20 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

The sequence is after baptism then teaching them. Baptism is not an option, it's a commandment. 

Acts 2:38-41 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” 40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.

This is a promise but it is grounded by who the Lord will call. This verse does not support infant baptism. 

Acts 8:12-14

But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Even Simon himself believed, and after being baptized he continued with Philip. And seeing signs and great miracles performed, he was amazed. 14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John,

This tells us immediate baptism. There is no mention of infant baptism. Philip did the baptism but Peter hears about it. Simon was so caught up with the miracles that he wanted it and was wanting to buy the gift v18-19. Peter was so angry with him. My take was they made a mistake and baptised a non believer. 

Acts 10:44-48 While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word. 45 And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God. Then Peter declared, 47 “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?” 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to remain for some days.

This was under Peter's ministry. No mention of infant baptism. 

Acts 16:31-33 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.

Here it's immediate baptism and no mention of infant baptism. 

There is actually no mention on infant baptism in the book of Acts. You can be very sure it is by immersion. And also very clear was that almost all instances was immediate baptism. 

When the Protestant baptism started, the anchor being Luther and Calvin, they were still practicing infant baptism and sprinkling. So what's the difference with the Roman Catholic? The difference is that when they baptised infants, it does not provide saving grace unlike the Roman Catholic Church. 

Luther did not want to leave the Catholic Church, so his statement was that he did not cause division but he suffer division. 

Later, the Protestants stop infant baptism and many re-baptised themselves and called themselves anabaptist. 

And from this came the Baptist movement and we went from there. 

Sermon on water baptism

There is a water baptism in December and pastor has asked me to share on water baptism.

I am taking this message from the books of Acts and have decided to look at it in a narrative way.

There will be real stories and some of you may not realize the issues and difficulties in water baptism until you hear them in real life.

I have three stories.

The first encounter was in 1994. My father accepted the Lord and at that time he said this: "I want to get baptized but I need to settle some things first." He was a religious man. He understood the importance of the baptism rite but he was still tied down with some of his old religious practices that he needed to do away with.

The first issue concerns this particular question: " Does a man who has accepted the Lord have to be baptized immediately?"

The second incident involved someone who had been a ' christian' for a long time. I asked him if he wanted to be baptized. And he said it was not important. Some time later, over the phone I asked him again whether he would like to be baptized this time around. He said it was not necessary for salvation, so he was not interested.

So the second issue: If baptism is not necessary for salvation, why get baptized?

The third incident happened in a church where I was fellowshipping with one of the cell leaders and he told me that until people are baptized, they are not saved. The third issue is whether baptism is necessary for salvation.

I have raised three issues concerning baptism. And the questions concern who are to be baptized, when to be baptized, why people get baptized and whether baptism is necessary for salvation?

Acts 8:34-38 So the eunuch answered Philip and said, "I ask you, of whom does the prophet say this, of himself or of some other man?" 35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture, preached Jesus to him. 36 Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, "See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?" 37 Then Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." 38 So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.

The passage before verse 34, verse 32-33 was taken from Isaiah. Who is this eunuch? The technical word refers to someone who has emasculated himself. The word eunuch is also a common term used for a high official. This person talks to Phillip. He was ministering up North and he was called by God to move down south. Here we know he was most likely a god fearing gentile that subscribe to Judaism. 

Those people at that time can be very committed. And they had the book of Isaiah.

Isaiah 53:7-8 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. 8 He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? For he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.

This passage made sense to the eunuch and he believed. This is when Phillip talked to him about Jesus and he believed. Verse 37 tells us very clearly that he became a believer. And he asked to be baptized.

1. Who are candidates for baptism?

The candidate must first and foremost be a believer.

2. When should the believer be baptized?

It was just a short time after he believed. Phillip didn't ask him, he asked Phillip. So when? As soon as possible. But you must understand that is a loaded question. He understood Judaism. He knew he should be baptized. And it is him who wants to be baptized. We are to teach what baptism is all about but the person is the one who must say he wants to be baptized. Unless there is a is practical problem, the person should be baptized as soon as possible. For example, if the person comes at midnight and ask for baptism and you may only have a small bathtub and may need more time to find a suitable place.

The passage tells us that it is a full immersion baptism.

Why do we in church teach about baptism?

Romans 6:3-5 Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection,

Here we have the full teaching of water baptism. Roman 6 is the beginning of Paul's teaching on sanctification. And here appropriately, he begins with baptism, which is not by accident.

Baptism is a symbolism of us being united with Christ in His death. We go down into the water as if we die to our old self. Jesus' death becomes our death. One key word in our Christian word is "in Christ". It is in Christ that we become a new man, it is in Christ that we become a saint. There is some form of union. And it begins when we become a believer in Christ. And the agent of that union is the Holy Spirit. He does it through the regeneration of our spirit.

If you are saved and have accepted Christ and if you do not get baptized, you are still saved. However when you get baptized, the baptism makes your identification with Christ vivid. It's a public profession of your faith in Christ.

You identify with Christ in his death when the pastor immerses you in water and in your coming out of the water, you identify with his resurrection. This is a symbolism. An identification. Is such an identification important? This is a key question.

We have two ordinances. The Roman Catholic Church uses the word sacrament. We normally don't use the word sacrament because in the use of the word the Roman Catholic Church ties it to salvation as a requirement to be saved.

Why do we need ordinances ? No matter how close you are to God, you are finite, he is infinite. We need a symbol to make a connection with the infinite because we are relating with a transcendent God. Baptism as one of the two ordinances is therefore important for facilitating this connection.

Right from Judaism to Christianity, there is a place to make a public declaration of your faith. Here is where the baptism comes in. Jesus is the head of the body and when you have baptism you come into the fellowship of the body.

What is in your mind when you are baptized? Some people tell you when you are sick you pray for healing, you go into the water sick and come out healed. It may happen by God's grace but If you read Romans then you will realize that the significance of baptism is not primarily about healing..

The significance of baptism is the gospel call preached, accepted and actualized. And you are identifying with that. This is what your focus should be. Can God heal during the baptism? Yes. In God's presence it can happen but that is not the purpose and focus of baptism.

If you go into baptism without knowing that it is about identification with Jesus, then you have missed the point. Through baptism you become incorporated into the body in a real sense.

In the next part I want to ask this question.

Is baptism necessary for salvation? The answer is NO. But salvation is necessary for baptism. Here I have to be very careful. I walk a tight rope. Baptism is not necessary for salvation but is necessary. That is a safe statement.

I give you one instance in the bible to illustrate my point. The criminal on the cross. Luke 23:43 And Jesus said to him, "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise."

I like this, it answers a lot of theological questions. Today you will be with me in paradise. Saved? Yes. Baptized? No. He believed. Not baptized. He is in heaven.

Look at the following;

Romans 10:9-10 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Is there a mention of water baptism in these two verses?

Ephesions 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast

Acts 20:21 testifying to Jews, and also to Greeks, repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ

Luke 24:46-47 Then He said to them, " Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, 47 and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

There is no mention on water baptism in ail these verses. Check the sinner's prayer. It is believing in Jesus and repentance of sin. No baptism mentioned. Those are the terms of salvation.

Back to the three stories.

In the first story, my father told me he wants to be baptized but to give him some time. My father is saved. Very important. He has the desire to be baptized.

In the second story, this person did not have the desire to be baptized. A person who is regenerated will have a desire for that which is godly. That is why we say a tree is known by its fruit. So if a person does not desire to be baptized, we are forced to wonder whether he is regenerated or saved? There is a question mark about his salvation. I am not saying baptism is necessary for salvation. But I must say baptism is the fruit of your salvation. If a person is not baptized after many years, the issue is that, at best he is a baby in Christ and at worst he is not saved.

Referring to the third story we have already seen that baptism is not necessary for salvation.

Matthew 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

In this verse we can see that the first thing a young believer must do is to be baptized. It is a

commandment. It is not an option.

And here is a perfect example.

Matthew 3:13-16

John Baptizes Jesus

13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?" 15 But Jesus answered and said to him, " Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he allowed Him. 16 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him.

Jesus himself was baptized. How much more us. Although baptism is not necessary for salvation, we must bear in mind that it is necessary.

And to end with my own example. When I was saved, In my heart I wanted to be baptized but I was worried that after I get baptized there would be no one to handle the funeral rites for my dad when he passes away.

But the conviction to get baptized came to me and in Dec 1993 as I was marking papers one night there was a still small voice urging me to get baptized. However I decided not to follow that urging. The Lord left me alone.

The next morning I went to church and when I saw Sis Sandy, I wanted to say good morning but the words that came out was "I want to be baptized". I asked her whether I could be baptized that day itself. Later that day she informed me about a water baptism that the church wwould be conducting in two weeks time. I waited for two weeks and was baptized in Swimwell then. I had such a strong desire to be baptized.

I want to end on a good note. When I was baptized I told the Lord that now that I have taken that step of faith I believe that my father will be saved too so that I will not be burdened about not being able to be a filial son if my father were to pass away as an unbeliever. Praise the Lord! My father accepted the Lord ten months later. The commandment of the Lord is indeed not burdensome.

Acts 8:39 Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing.

Baptism is a joy. If you cannot catch that, you have missed it. After the baptism at Swimwell, I was full of the Spirit. I want to impart this to you, if you are a believer, make a public acknowledgment of your faith by taking baptism and it will be a joy. Amen!

Roman Catholic View (Sacrament View)

1. Infant baptism
2. Baptism is necessary for salvation
3. Act of baptism causes regeneration
4. Baptism imparts saving grace

Response of Luther

Salvation is by faith alone. Sola fide. Not by faith plus works and baptism is work. 

Galatians 5:1-6 1 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. 2 Look:I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. 3 I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. 4 You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. 5 For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.

Protestant Paedobaptist View (Covenant View)

1. Infant baptism
2. Baptism is not necessary for salvation
3. Baptism symbolizes regeneration. It does not cause regeneration. 
4. Baptism does not impart saving grace

Why did Luther subscribe to infant baptism?

Infants born to believing parents are part of the covenant community of God's people. Baptism paralleled with circumcision but there is no mention that baptism substituted circumcision. Circumcision is for physical birth. Salvation is spiritual birth. An analogy but not complete. 

Baptist View

1. No infant baptism
2. Baptism is not necessary for salvation
3. Baptism symbolizes regeneration. It does not cause regeneration
4. Baptism does not impart saving grace
5. Salvation is necessary for baptism

Baptism has a form and substance. The form is not as important as the substance. Infants for example may be baptised but because they don't know anything, there is no substance. A sick old man may be baptised by sprinkling because his physical state does not make it practical to baptised by immersion. 

Who can baptise? Someone in authority in the church. Children can be baptised if they have understanding of faith, even 9-10 years or better 13 years.