Footprint

What you just mentioned (putting God in a box, and trying to understand His Word with intellect, human reasoning and logic, INSTEAD of being governed by the preponderance of Scriptural evidence that is found written verbatim upon the pages of the Holy Bible on any subject of interest, study or discussion) is probably why there are literally Thousands of denominations, religious organizations and autonomous congregations, all of which claim to be “The Way”. Yet, they differ in so many different ways, even though many of them use the same Bible. First, The thief could NOT have come down off that cross, to go and do anything pertaining to the requirements of Levitical Law, either. Also, that thief died in the most unique period of human history. He died AFTER the veil in the Temple was rent in Twain from top to bottom (Jesus died before him), and he died BEFORE the New Testament Church was “Spiritually Born” AND Inaugurated about 50 Days Later. Second, Jesus had the power and the authority to save, heal, deliver and pardon anyone He so chose. He once referred to a woman from Canaan as a dog. However, her faith caused Him to make an exception .. even though He told her that He had only come for the Lost Sheep of the House of Israel. Matthew Chapter 15 (KJV) [22] And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil. [23] But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us. [24] But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel. [25] Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. [26] But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. [27] And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table. [28] Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour. Romans 9:15 For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. Third, and most importantly, the One in the middle (Jesus) is our example. NOT the thief on the cross. And Jesus traveled over 50 miles to be baptized by John the Baptist (who baptized unto repentance), to “fulfill all righteousness”, even though He had no sins to repent of. Fourth, even with all of the above taken into consideration, it is VERY important to remember that He is a real stickler when it comes to OBEYING .. and following His very precise instructions, to the “T” (so to speak). And He COMMANDED His Foot Print Followers to... 1). GO 2). TEACH, and 3). BAPTIZE Evidently, you erroneously assume that He didn’t COMMAND baptism, when He most definitely did. So He isn’t wrong at all. And neither are those who OBEY that COMMAND. Just because someone does NOT understand, OR agree with, the Apostles Doctrine, does NOT mean that the Truth is “spin” (as you put it). Between Mount Sinai and Mount Calvary an ANNUAL atonement for sin had to be made. The animal slain, and the blood applied EACH AND EVERY YEAR. On this side of Calvary, the blood that Jesus shed has provided complete atonement, once and for all. So your understanding doesn’t take into consideration the fact that the annual procedure OUTSIDE the Tabernacle was performed EACH AND EVERY YEAR (repetition), the blood shed of the sacrificial Lamb, the brazen altar of (burnt) sacrifice, the brazen laver for washing. The INSIDE procedure was repetitive, as well, but we’re talking about types and shadows regarding water, and the part it played in both the Old and New Covenant matter of the atonement of sins. Acts 22:16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. 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: Also, when we Repent (die out to sin, self and the world) we identify with Jesus’ Death. When we are baptized (by complete immersion, not by sprinkling a little dirt on a corpse) we identify with Jesus’ Burial. And when we receive the Holy Ghost “the Bible way”, we identify with Jesus’ Resurrection, as we walk in the newness of Life in Christ Jesus, led by the Spirit, NOT by the flesh. Romans 6:4 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. People can pontificate all they want to, but the Biblical evidence very plainly reveals that, on this side of Calvary, it is not only going to take HEARING AND BELIEVING THE GOSPEL to be saved, it is also going to take Repentance (an about face, turning from sin, and to the Lord), water baptism in the precious name of Jesus (for the remission of sins), and receiving the Holy Ghost “the Bible way” to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. You evidently do not have the same understanding of the types and shadows of that which was to come, and that which did come, which was fulfilled in Christ, AND was very firmly established by His Footprint Followers, those who very definitely had it right. The first four books of the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) are called the Gospels, and contains the birth, life, ministry, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Christ. The Fifth Book, the Book of Acts, is the History Book of the “Original” (First Century) New Testament Church. The Epistles (Letters) Romans through Jude were written to Churches and/or individual Christians, and contain admonitions and instructions for people who were already saved. They weren’t written to rank sinners. Lastly, the Book of Revelation is a Book of Prophecy, regarding things that were, are, and are to come (in the future), and contains figurative and metaphoric language, and things that are yet to be revealed, come to pass, and be understood. So, in answer to your challenge, the Epistles were written to people who had already repented, been baptized and born again “the Bible way”. And there was no need in telling them what to do (about being baptized) when they had already done so. God is perfect. Man is imperfect. And when the preponderance of Scriptural evidence that is found written verbatim upon the pages of the Holy Bible on any subject of interest, study or discussion doesn’t harmonize with what someone proclaims as Gospel Truth, they are either mistaken, misinformed or in error. Plain and simple. You can down-play, diminish and/or fight against this important Bible Doctrine that was COMMANDED by our Lord, if you wish. As for me, I’m going to stay with the Apostles Doctrine. Yes ... and Yes. God bless!

Nowhere in my OP, or my replies, have I said that water baptism in and of itself will save, please go back and actually read my post and my replies. Water baptism by it self will not save, but it is PART of what saves, in OBEDIENCE to God's Word, and obeying the principles that He has placed in effect from the foundation of the world. For example; The Old Testament Tabernacle, being a shadow of things to come, we read Aaron's sons (the priests) had to wash at the laver "that they die not." (Exodus 30:17-21) Now, in the New Testament, Jesus told the leper to go to the priest and give thanks unto God for their healing, so as they went they were healed as they obeyed His word! In the Book of Acts, when asked, point blank, what shall we do to be saved, Peter and ALL the Apostles present with him that day replied... 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. [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. Notice NONE of the Apostles with Peter ever said, "I see you all now believe, therefor go in peace you are all saved." Peter and ALL the Apostles said to: 1. Repent 2. Water baptized in Jesus name for the remission of sins 3. Receive the Holy Ghost. And sooo, that to you is heresy? That is correct, one must first be a believer, nowhere have I said anything otherwise. It is interesting, however, that upon "believing", Jesus said, "and is baptized shall be saved;" Notice he did NOT say, he that believes "only" shall be saved. Let's take a look at Mark 16:16 which is the Great Commission given, and compare it to Matthew 28:19 which is the Great Commission given, to see what is meant... Mark 16:15 AndG2532 he saidG2036 unto them,G846 GoG4198 ye intoG1519 allG537 theG3588 world,G2889 and preachG2784 theG3588 gospelG2098 to everyG3956 creature.G2937 Mark 16:16 He that believethG4100 andG2532 is baptizedG907 shall be saved;G4982 butG1161 he that believeth notG569 shall be damned.G2632 Matthew 28:19 GoG4198 ye therefore,G3767 and teachG3100 allG3956 nations,G1484 baptizingG907 themG846 inG1519 theG3588 nameG3686 of theG3588 Father,G3962 andG2532 of theG3588 Son,G5207 andG2532 of theG3588 HolyG40 Ghost:G41 In BOTH scriptures, G907 is used... βαπτίζω baptizō Thayer Definition: 1) to dip repeatedly, to immerse, to submerge (of vessels sunk) 2) to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to wash, to make clean with water, to wash one’s self, bathe 3) to overwhelm Strong's Definition: From a derivative of G911; to make whelmed (that is, fully wet); used only (in the New Testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordinance of Christian baptism: - baptist, baptize, wash. Do try and keep up, and please actually read my OP and my replies. I don't doubt many have had an experience with God. But let's not confuse "an experience" with being "Born Again". There is only One Road according to God's word and Plan, which leads to Salvation, and that has been laid out in the OP. The problem is the devil has offered a buffet table for all, leading to destruction. Nowhere in my OP have I put God in a box and, neither will God go against His own principles. He has a very specific plan of salvation, so specific that he admonished Moses to make the tabernacle exactly as he seen it in the mount, because the Old Testament tabernacle was a shadow of what was to come in His New Testament Plan of Salvation. Upon entering the gates of the tabernacle, one comes to the alter of sacrifice (a shadow of repentance). Next, we come to the laver (here comes the WATER - a shadow of baptism). Then, on to the Holy Spirit. And this is what we see in the New Testament... Acts 2:37 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. The Lord has NOT stopped calling. God bless!

We know that one believes on the Lord to be saved, but we need to hear the preaching of Jesus. And, in Preaching Jesus, water baptism is preached... Acts 8:26 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, [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. Acts 8:35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. [36] 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? Acts 8:37 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. Everyone prior to Jesus' Death, Burial and bodily Resurrection, entered into the Kingdom through Old Testament dispensation, including the thief on the cross because although Jesus was close to death, he was not yet dead... Hebrews 9:16 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. At the Birth of the Lord's New Testament Church in the book of Acts, that same question was asked to ALL the Apostles that were present that day. They were asked, point blank, what must we do to be saved... Acts 2:37 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. The Lord has not stopped calling. Thank you for your input, and touching upon this very important subject. God bless!

The problem is having too many people teaching something contrary one to another. They use the same version of the Holy Bible, but with various beliefs. Paul tells us... 1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. Regardless of what Paul said, we now have THOUSANDS of denominations. You and I know God's church was not ordained to be that way! Thank you for your input, I really appreciate it. God bless!

To commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown, on April 26, 2011, Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev visited the Star of Wormwood Memorial dedicated to the "liquidators" (first responders) to the accident. Is it merely a coincidence that the name of the memorial complex remembering those that died fighting the nuclear fires of Chernobyl is the exact same name of the fallen star called Wormwood referred to in the third trumpet prophecy of Revelation 8? There is a statue now standing on the site, an enormous angel blowing a trumpet! God Bless!

I once found myself in a conversation about a good BBQ (I prefer hamburgers BTW), this person said he was going to BBQ but first he needed to get a tank of propane. OK, I said, that's not really a BBQ, and he said that it was because it is only the heat that matters. Nope, I replied, it is the smokiness of the coals and wood that makes a good BBQ, - otherwise you are basically dragging your electric stove out from the kitchen to the backyard on a long cord. He scratched his head for a moment as the light began to go on. Love you all, God bless! P.S. It's good to enjoy the simple things now, before the Antichrist takes the stage.

In the book of John, after the last supper, Jesus has a private conversation with the apostles... John 14:7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. [8] Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. [9] Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? John 14:16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; [17] Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. [18] I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. We read that the world cannot see the Holy Spirit, nor does the world know him. Jesus then said "But ye know him". How do the apostles know him? he was not yet sent! Jesus is saying that the one standing here talking to you is the one that will be in you. The one standing here talking to you is the Holy Ghost that will be in you. Jesus was on earth, under the ministry of redemption. It was expedient that he must first leave so that the Comforter (Holy Spirit) may come. Jesus had to finish the ministry of Redemption, so that he comes back under a new ministry, that of Regeneration (Jesus in us). And which began on the day of Pentecost and continues to this very day. Spirit of Jesus: Colossians 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Galatians 4:6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Romans 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. 1 Corinthians 15:45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. Ephesians 3:15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, [16] That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; [17] That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 1 Peter 1:11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. 1 Peter 1:19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: [20] Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 1 John 4:13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. Thank you, God bless!

The Roman Road Plan of Salvation is used by virtually ALL denominations today. Those who use the Roman Road Plan of Salvation will tell a lost person, who sincerely recites the words of one of the various versions of the "Sinner's Prayer", that they are ready to go to Heaven, right then and there, POOF, just like that! The following is how most people are taught to use the Roman Road Plan of Salvation: They will tell a person it is very easy to be saved (which is a true statement). Then, they will walk them through the following steps: Step 1. They'll tell the person to realize they are a sinner. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" (Romans 3:23), which is very true. Step 2. Then, they'll tell them to realize that a price must be paid for their sin. "...and without shedding of blood is no remission." (Hebrews 9:22) "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" (Romans 5:12), still, all very true. Step 3. Next, they'll tell them to realize that a price had to paid for their sin AND that the price has already been paid by Jesus Christ! "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23) "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8), again, all very true. Step 4. Then, they'll tell the person to ask Jesus to come into their heart and save their soul, and to accept His sacrifice as the punishment for their sin. "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." (Romans 10:9), here's where things "begin to go south" (so to speak). Step 5. At this point, they'll ask the person if they would like to accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior right then. If so, they will ask the person to repeat after them the words of one of the versions of the "The Sinner's Prayer". And, they are saved at that very moment! Right then and there. POOF! Just like that! There are some essential things missing in the Roman Road Plan of Salvation. Consider the following... The Jerusalem Road Plan of Salvation was presented by Peter, under the inspiration of the Spirit of God, on the Day of Pentecost in Acts Chapter 2, following Jesus' death, burial, resurrection and ascension. Upon being specifically asked what sinners must do, here's what God inspired Peter to say, as recorded in 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." A gift is not something earned. But, Peter didn’t stop there. In the very next verse (verse 39) he said, "For the promise is to you, your children, to those that are afar off, even as many as the Lord OUR GOD shall call". So, my question is, "Has God stopped calling?" ABSOLUTELY NOT! Step 1. Repentance of sins Jesus said in Luke 13:3 "... except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." And He COMMANDED in Luke 24:47 that REPENTANCE AND REMISSION OF SINS should be preached in HIS NAME among ALL nations, BEGINNING at Jerusalem. Step 2. Water Baptism in the precious name of Jesus... Jesus told Nicodemus in John 3:1-8 that unless a person is "born again" of water AND of the Spirit, they cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. And, He said in Mark 16:16 "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." The Greek word that was translated into English as "baptize" means to fully wet, immerse, submerge, plunge into, dip or bury. Step 3. Receiving the Holy Spirit (the Bible way) Jesus told Nicodemus this in John Chapter 3... Verse 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Verse 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. Verse 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. According to Jesus, Himself, although you cannot see the wind, or know where it came from or where it is going, there is a "sound" heard when it is present, likewise, there is a "sound" heard when everyone is born of the Spirit. So, my question is "What is the sound to which Jesus referred?"... 1) the 120 in the upper room in Acts 2:1-4, .... they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. 2) the household of Cornelius in Acts 10:44-48, ... While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 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. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. 3) the 12 disciples of John in Acts 19:1-6, ... And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?" (Acts 19:2) God bless!

They were saved through Old Testament dispensation... Hebrews 9:11 (KJV) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; [12] Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. [13] For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: [14] How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Remember Lot... 2 Peter 2:6 (KJV) And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; [7] And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: [8] (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) God had a redemption plan for the Old Testament saints, which was a shadow of things to come. God bless!

While on the Isle of Patmos, God allowed John to look into the future. And he saw something with "great admiration" as recorded In Revelation 17:6. God allowed John to see the Great Whore, the Spiritual Mother of Harlots. John's wonder was NOT coming from the standpoint of desire, but rather of showing intense shock or surprise joined with indignation at her. Let's take a look as this scene unfolds... Revelation 17:1 And there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto thee the judgment of the great whore that sitteth upon many waters: [2] With whom the kings of the earth have committed fornication, and the inhabitants of the earth have been made drunk with the wine of her fornication. [3] So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns. [4] And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication: [5] And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. Revelation 17:6 And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration. [7] And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns. [8] The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. Revelation 17:9 And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. Rome is known to be built upon seven hills. Rome was said to have been founded when Romulus and Remus, twin sons of Mars, ended up at the foot of the hill Palatine and founded the city. The other six hills are Capitoline (the seat of government), Quirinal, Viminal, Esquiline, Caelian, and Aventine. History records that a Roman Emperor named Constantine was very instrumental in setting up the First General Council of Churches in 325 A.D., known as the Council of Nicaea. The Church of Rome became the Official Church of the Roman empire with Constantine as its head. This "universal" church with its man made doctrine was established so that EVERY subject of the Empire would belong to the Official Church of the Rome. The THREE PERSON DOCTRINE which later evolved and was very clearly defined as such, was purely an orchestrated effort by Constantine designed to appease both the MONOTHEISTS (One God Christians) and the POLYTHEISTS (Multiple god pagans). From a strictly political standpoint, I guess you might say it was a brilliant move. Constantine stopped the persecution of Christians for a while so I don't guess he was all bad. However, the Roman Emperors were responsible for killing and torturing people (Christians) much like that of Hitler's Nazi death camps. The True Church was literally driven underground. As a matter of fact, the May 1976 revised edition of Halley's Bible Handbook reports on pages 761-763 "...the church was regarded as a secret society..."; "...Christians were hunted in cave and forest; they were burned, thrown to wild beasts, put to death by every torture cruelty could devise." "Christian graves are variously estimated at between 2,000,000 and 7,000,000." Papal Persecutions against Protestants in later centuries far out numbered the Early Christian Martyrs under Pagan Rome. History also proves that the truth about one God was universally preached by the New Testament Church for many years after Christ, until the development of the "trinity" doctrine by the Roman Catholic Church. Encyclopedia International, 1975 Edition, Vol.18, p.226 - The doctrine of the "Trinity" did not form part of the apostles' preaching, as this is reported in the New Testament. New Catholic Encyclopedia, 1967 Edition, Vol.13, p.1021 - The first use of the Latin word "trinitas" (trinity) with reference to God, is found in Tertullian's writings (about 213 A.D.) He was the first to use the term "persons" (plural) in a Trinitarian context. Encyclopedia Americana, 1957 Edition, Vol.27, p.69 - The word "Trinity" is not in Scripture. The term "persons" (plural) is not applied in Scripture to the Trinity. World Book Encyclopedia, 1975 Edition, Vol. T, p.363 - Belief in Father, Son and Holy Ghost was first defined by the earliest general council of churches. This was the First Council of Nicaea in 325 A.D. New International Encyclopedia, Vol.22, p.476 - The Catholic faith is this: We worship one God in Trinity, but there is one Person of the Father, another of the Son and another of the Holy Ghost. The Glory equal - the Majesty co-eternal. The doctrine is not found in its fully developed form in the Scriptures. Modern theology does not seek to find it in the Old Testament. At the time of the Reformation the Protestant Church took aver the doctrine of the Trinity without serious examination. Life Magazine, October 30, 1950, Vol.29, No.18, p.51 - The Catholics made this statement concerning their doctrine of the Trinity, to defend the dogma of the assumption of Mary, in an article written by Graham Greene: "Our opponents sometimes claim that no belief should be held dogmatically which is not explicitly stated in Scripture... But the PROTESTANT CHURCHES have themselves accepted such dogmas as THE TRINITY, for which there is NO SUCH PRECISE AUTHORITY in the Gospels" It isn't hard to PROVE where this doctrine originated, when it originated and by whom it originated. Even though most will insist that it came straight from the Bible. Since the Bible does NOT give any SPECIFIC authority for such a belief, MILLIONS are told it is a "MYSTERY" which they must accept by faith, because it cannot be explained or understood. Interestingly enough the word "Mystery" is the name of the Mother Of Harlots... Revelation 17:5 And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. God is pleading to come out of her... Revelation 18:1 And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. [2] And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. [3] For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. Revelation 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. [5] For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. The question becomes: What is the true church, and what should we be looking for? The Five-Fold Ministry Ephesians Chapter 4 (KJV) 11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: The Fruit of the Spirit Galatians Chapter 5 (KJV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. The Gifts of the Spirit 1 Corinthians Chapter 12 (KJV) 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 1 Corinthians 12:28 (KJV) And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. We see that God is the One who placed the above in His Church. And we're even told why He did. However, not everyone believes that. But, I've never met anyone who doesn't believe it who can provide Scripture(s) for when, where OR why God removes any of it from His Church. Granted, the churches of the wide gate and broad way do NOT embrace all of the above. However, the one true Church that Jesus established (the strait gate and narrow way) certainly does. Actually, the above documentation can be used as a litmus test while evaluating the beliefs of the thousands of different denominations and religious organizations in existence, today. And, in addition to that, another VERY good (and very quick) test is to determine whether they embrace the Apostles One God Monotheistic Doctrine, OR "pluralistic monotheism", that evolved out of (and traced back to) the First General Council of Churches (the Council of Nicaea) in 325 A.D. Pluralistic monotheism is a dogmatically held "theory" that is embraced by ALL of the organized (orthodox) denominations and religious organizations, today (including both Catholics and Protestants). Thanks, and God bless!

Prophecy fulfilled... Nahum 2:4 The chariots shall rage in the streets, they shall justle one against another in the broad ways: they shall seem like torches, they shall run like the lightnings. When I'm driving the highways, I get into the right hand slow lane and cruse around 60mph. It is amazing how they blow past as if going the speed limit were against the law. One day I seen the next batch of cars in my rear view mirror and approaching fast. As they were raging by, something occurred to me, "stampede". It was as if a SPIRIT were behind them driving them forward with FEAR! Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. God bless!

Power in the NAME of Jesus!

Since there are THOUSANDS of denominations teaching and preaching something different than the TRUE Church of Acts, some insisting that water baptism is not even necessary (we covered this in a previous post https://www.worthychristianforums.com/topic/239300-filling-with-the-holy-ghost/) then how can they teach something contrary to the Word and yet be in complete harmony with God's Word? Thank you, and God bless!

Yes, that is correct. And remember, The Crowed is Wrong... Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Keep up the good work, God bless!

1 Corinthians 1:10 Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. Regardless of Paul's concern, we now have THOUSANDS of denominations. Some of which are Lutheran (of Martin Luther the German monk who began the Protestant Reformation), some are Calvinists (of John Calvin), Baptists, Catholic and the list goes on. Ever wondered why there are THOUSANDS (literally) of religious denominations, organizations and autonomous congregations, many of whom use the same version of the Holy Bible, but with various beliefs? GOD'S CHURCH WAS NOT ORDAINED TO BE THAT WAY! Varying beliefs, divisions, contention and strife do not come from God. 2 Peter 1:20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. Deuteronomy 12:32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. Revelation 22:18 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: Revelation 22:19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and [from] the things which are written in this book. One True Church. Acts Chapter 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. (29) For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. (30) Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. (31) Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. There is only ONE TRUE CHURCH. And it was started by Jesus, Himself. Jesus is the ONLY name associated with it's founding, and it's inauguration. The TRUE Church's birth and inauguration is found documented in Acts Chapter 2. And it's original teachings and oldest history is found within the 28 Chapters of the New Testament Book of Acts (of the Apostles). However, over the Centuries since then, there have been many who have risen up, and become the leader of a very distinct religious movement of their own. Most are still alive, today. This is why there are THOUSANDS of denominations, organizations and autonomous congregations teaching and preaching something different than the TRUE Church of Acts. Thanks, and God bless!

Yes, very good point! The Word of God shows examples of believers being filled with the Holy Ghost, before or after water baptism, but repentance must always comes first. And, in Preaching Jesus, water baptism is preached... Acts 8:26 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. Acts 8:27 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, Acts 8:29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. Acts 8:30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? Acts 8:31 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. Acts 8:35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. Acts 8:36 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? Acts 8:37 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. Acts 8:38 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. Acts 8:39 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. Thanks so much, God bless!

Yes! And, we are the New Testament church. This is how they received the Holy Ghost and this is how WE receive the Holy Ghost. The only difference is that we (today's church) have so many denominations which all teach different doctrines that the TRUTH has become watered down. One example is that some teach water baptism is not even necessary, but let's open the Word of God and find this out... 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. Romans 6 3] Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4] Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5] For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: A popular saying among denominationalists today is, "Baptism is an outward sign of an inward work." In light of the scriptures listed above, this could not be further from the truth. Thanks for your post, God bless!

Apparently it is quite significant considering Jesus, who knew no sin, walked from Nazareth to Bethabara (probably about 50-60 miles) to be baptized by John the Baptist. When John the Baptist told Jesus that it needed to be the other way around (him being baptized by Jesus), Jesus told him that it was necessary to fulfill all righteousness (Matthew 3:13-17). If anyone wants to quibble about it, I'll let them take that up with God. Anyway, it is necessary. Now, should we be immersed (dunked) or sprinkled? Well, let's see what the Bible says, since we know the word baptize itself means to go down into the water... G907 βαπτίζω baptizō Thayer Definition: 1) to dip repeatedly, to immerse, to submerge (of vessels sunk) 2) to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to wash, to make clean with water, to wash one’s self, bathe 3) to overwhelm Mark 16:16 "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." John 3:5 "Jesus answered, Except a man be born of born or water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." 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." Matthew 3:16 "And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water:" Acts 8:38 "...and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him." St. John 3:23 "And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there..." Romans 6:4 "Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death:..." Colossians 2:12 "Buried with Him in baptism,..." Ephesians 4:5 "One Lord, One faith, One baptism," 1 Peter 3:20-21 "Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. 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:" . There are several reasons the mode (manner) of baptism by the Apostles had to be by immersion: 1. The word itself means to immerse. 2. Instances of those who went down into the water and came up out of the water. 3. There is only ONE baptism (it's not, "You do it your way and I'll do it mine"). 4. It symbolizes the burial of Christ (a complete entombment not sprinkling some dirt on His dead corpse.) 5. The brazen laver that the priests used in the tabernacle ceremonies was the second step (following death at the altar <a "type" of repentance>), and is where the water was used to thoroughly clean (it wasn't sprinkled). 6. There are no examples of baptismal sprinkling in the New Testament. 7. History records that sprinkling came along about the time of Constantine when the church of Rome began sprinkling infants (who, by the way, had not even become conscious of sin yet, let alone had any to repent of). The next question is, "What is the correct formula of baptism?" Jesus said in Matthew 28:19...... . (THE GREAT COMMISSION GIVEN): "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:" The word NAME in Matthew 28:19 is SINGULAR (meaning ONE) and that the words FATHER, SON and HOLY GHOST are TITLES. Also, Jesus was NOT telling his disciples what to "SAY" in Matthew 28:19, He was telling them what to "DO." Jesus is the name of the Father (John 5:43), Jesus is the name of the Son (Matthew 1:21) and Jesus is the name of the Holy Ghost (John 14:26). To find out what His followers "SAID" in order to obey (fulfill) Jesus' Great Commission of Matthew 28:19 you have to go to... . (THE GREAT COMMISSION IN ACTION): 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." Acts 8:16 "(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the NAME of the Lord Jesus)." Acts 19:5 "When they heard this, they were baptized in the NAME of the Lord Jesus." A popular saying among denominationalists today is, "Baptism is an outward sign of an inward work." If the Bible says that baptism is an outward sign of an inward work, then baptism is an outward sign of an inward work. When I first heard that saying I searched it out and just couldn't find any place that said anything baptism being a "sign" of anything to anyone. However, what I did find out about baptism, in addition to the scriptures listed above, is: Mark 1:4 "John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins." Luke 24:47 "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name beginning at Jerusalem." Acts 2:38 "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." The Bible confirms that repentance and water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ was ESSENTIAL elements of the APOSTLES' DOCTRINE of the New Testament Church that was ordained by Jesus Christ. Therefore, is baptism an outward sign of inward work? No! Then what is it? Lets read the Word of God and find out... Romans 6 3] Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 4] Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 5] For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: 6] Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7] For he that is dead is freed from sin. 8] Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9] Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10] For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11] Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12] Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13] Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. 14] For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. 15] What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. 16] Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17] But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18] Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. 19] I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. 20] For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. 21] What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. 22] But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 23] For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. God bless!

John Chapter 7 (KJV) 37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) Mark Chapter 16 (KJV) 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; Acts 19:2 (KJV) 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. God bless!

The gospel message has NOT changed. And it is for WHOSOEVER will, regardless of who OR what they are. Jesus rent the veil in twain AND broke down the middle of partition. It’s now "saved" or "lost". One God. One Church. One Plan of Salvation. One Way - and it is strait and narrow, which few find. NO OTHER WAY! Also Paul was sent to the Gentiles. And after some years he went up to Jerusalem to make sure what he was preaching to the Gentiles by revelation was the same as what the “foot print” followers were preaching. And it was. God bless!

Respectfully Doug, Acts Chapter 10 blows your theory out of the water. Who directed Peter to go to Cornelius’ house, Cornelius a Gentile - God did! What happened at Cornelius’ house? While Peter preached, the Gentiles received the Holy Ghost just like Peter and all the others did on the Day of Pentecost, in Acts Chapter 2. What did Peter do right AFTER the Gentiles received the Holy Ghost, “the Bible way”? -- He COMMANDED them to be baptized. Thanks, and God bless!

It is for ALL of us, the New Testament Church... 1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: 1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. 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. Acts 2:39 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. Has God stopped calling? I say emphatically NO! God bless!

Due to there being literally thousands of different religious organizations, denominations and autonomous congregations, today, with many different versions of the Holy Bible, there is a myriad of different interpretations and beliefs regarding the subjects of ... 1). Water Baptism by immersion in the Precious Name of Jesus, as opposed to immersion (OR sprinkling) using these words from Matthew 28:19 .. in the “name of the Father, AND of the Son, AND of the Holy Ghost”, 2). Being Born Again, of Water AND of the Spirit (the Bible Way), and 3). Speaking in Tongues. Therefore, it is VERY important to remember several basic things ... Deuteronomy 12:32 (KJV) What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. {{Don’t add to or take from Word}} Matthew Chapter 7 (KJV) 13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. {{Do NOT follow the crowd}} 2 Peter 1:20 (KJV) Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. {{No private interpretation}} Ephesians Chapter 4 (KJV) 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, {{Only ONE WAY}} 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. {{Study and rightly divide Word}} 2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV) All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: {{God’s Word is all we need}} At the Birth of the “Original” New Testament Church in Acts Chapter 2, the Bible is VERY clear about the Gospel (Good News) Message, it is NOT just believing that Messiah came, He lived, He died and He rose again. The Gospel Message is believing what He taught, AS WELL AS the fact that He came to Redeem (Save) that which was Lost, AND that His Death, Burial and Resurrection were ESSENTIAL elements of Redemption. These elements are shown here, that ... 1) when a person genuinely repents, not only have they died out to sin, self and the world, where their “old man” dies, but they’ve identified with Messiah’s Death; 2) when they are water baptized by immersion, and they take upon themselves the Precious Name of Jesus (when the Name is applied), not only are their sins washed away but they are buried with Him in Baptism, and; 3) when they receive the Holy Ghost (Being born again) “the Bible way”, they begin their new walk in the fullness of Life in Christ, which symbolizes His resurrection. Since the New Testament Plan of Salvation and the nine Spiritual Gifts, which God very definitely placed in His Church, are VERY important, but greatly misunderstood and misrepresented, today, I felt it necessary to first lay foundation, before I give you Biblical answers for your questions, which are... 1). Can a person be born-again without being baptized by immersion in water in Jesus' name? 2). Can a person be born-again without speaking in tongues? Biblical response to your questions ... Jesus (who had no sins to repent of) traveled over 50 miles to be water baptized by John the Baptist, to FULFILL all righteousness. Mark Chapter 3 (KJV) 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. NOTE: Many use the thief on the cross to justify not being baptized. However, the One in the MIDDLE {{JESUS}} is my example. The thief died BEFORE the completion of Jesus’ death, burial, resurrection and ascension, BEFORE the ushering in {{BIRTH}} of the “Original” New Testament Church, which occurred about 50 days AFTER Jesus’ Death, on the Jewish Feast Day {{Pentecost}} as recorded in Acts Chapter 2. Although Jesus was close to death on the cross when he made that promise to the thief, he was not YET dead... Hebrews 9:16 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. Water Baptism was COMMANDED by both Jesus AND Peter (who had been given the keys of the Kingdom). JESUS’ GREAT COMMISSION ... (COMMANDMENT) Matthew 28:19 (KJV) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Acts 10:48 (KJV) And he {{Peter}} commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. Also, there are Biblical examples where people received the Gift of the Holy Ghost both before AND after they had been water baptized. So, Water Baptism is NOT a sign that one has received the Gift of the Holy Ghost. *** Example One .. The following people had heard the Gospel, Believed the Gospel, AND had been Water Baptized in the Precious Name of Jesus, but had NOT received the Gift of the Holy Ghost, yet. They received the Holy Ghost, Later. Acts Chapter 8 (KJV) 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. 14 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. *** Example Two .. These Disciples of John the Baptist had been baptized unto the baptism of Repentance, but had NOT heard of, OR received, the Gift of the Holy Ghost. They received the Holy Ghost AFTER Paul’s preaching. AND they were also “re-baptized”, but this time, in the Precious Name of Jesus. Acts Chapter 19 (KJV) 1 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. 7 And all the men were about twelve. *** Example Three .. These people heard the Gospel Message, Believed the Gospel Message AND received the Gift of the Holy Ghost BEFORE Peter COMMANDED them to be Water Baptized. Acts Chapter 10 (KJV) 44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 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. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. NOTE: the preponderance of Scriptural evidence that is found written verbatim upon the pages of the Holy Bible proves the “Original” (First Century) New Testament Church invoked the NAME “Jesus” at a baptismal ceremony, and did NOT “quote” the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:19. And a sentence diagram of Matthew 28:18 proves ONE NAME is being alluded to. Besides, nobody was being baptized in Matthew 28:19. Instead, Jesus was COMMANDING them what to “do” (go, teach and baptize <in a singular name>), and they went and carried out His Command. Nowhere, in the Bible did anyone “quote” the words of Matthew 28:19. Also, Paul admonished us to do everything in word and deed in the name of Jesus, which includes Baptism, too. And here’s two verbatim “quotes” where the name of Jesus was invoked for other purposes besides water baptism .. Acts 3:6 (KJV) Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. Acts 16:18 (KJV) And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. So, yes! The NAME is very vital! Acts Chapter 4 (KJV) 10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. 11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Soooo, the Biblical answer to your first question, "Can a person be born-again without being baptized by immersion in water in Jesus' name?" ... Since the New Birth, according to Jesus in John Chapter 3, consists of being born again of water AND of the Spirit, one which man does (of water) and the other one ONLY God can do (of the Spirit), YES, a person can be born again “of the Spirit” without having been water baptized, yet. However, I must refer you to Acts Chapter 10, where Peter COMMANDED those who had just received the Holy Ghost the same as he and those who came with him had, to immediately be Water Baptized. Remember: to “ENTER” God’s Kingdom requires being born again of Water AND of the Spirit. ------------------------- Now, to the subject of Speaking in Tongues. There are actually THREE different operations of Speaking in Tongues in a fully functional Church. PURPOSE # 1 .. the initial evidence of having received the Holy Ghost “the Bible way”, which can be interpreted for the edification of others. John Chapter Three (KJV) 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. 8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. According to Jesus in Verse 8 (above) just as there is a “sound” associated (or present) with the wind, likewise, there is a “sound” associated (present) when EVERYONE is born of the Spirit. My question is “What is the SOUND to which Jesus referred? I submit to you that the preponderance of Scriptural evidence that is found written verbatim upon the pages of the Holy Bible of people in the New Testament Church proves to be “Speaking in Tongues as the Spirit of God gives utterance.” By the way, in the settings where it does NOT say one way or the other whether or not they spoke in Tongues should NOT be used to insist they did NOT. Instead, it just doesn’t say. I’ve never had anyone to present Scripture that says someone received the Holy Ghost but did NOT speak in Tongues. However, since Tongues has become a hot topic for many, both pro and con, many are falling into the trap of adding to or taking from God’s Word, depending on how you look at it. PURPOSE # 2 .. used in one’s intercessory Prayer, as well as in their personal and private worship, which edifies the individual, but is NOT understood by anyone or interpreted for the edification of anyone else. 1 Corinthians Chapter 14 (KJV) 1 Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. 2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 3 But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. PURPOSE # 3 .. can be interpreted for the edification of an entire congregation. 1 Corinthians Chapter 14 (KJV) 5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. This Chapter in 1 Corinthians is mishandled by lots of people on both sides of the issue of Tongues. To keep (or maintain) silence in a church setting doesn’t mean a woman can’t utter a word or sing a hymn, nor does it mean one is prohibited from praying in Tongues. The sign in a Public Library that says to keep quiet, means that. It doesn’t mean nobody can utter a single syllable. Just keep quiet. Don’t disturb others. Simple! One of the ways most mother’s with small children helps to “keep (maintain) silence” is to take a noisy or disruptive child out. When she returns, she is NOT to talk to others to find out what was said while she was gone. She is supposed to wait and find out from her husband at home. Again, Simple! However, religious zealots are quick to make an issue out of a non issue OR to act as though they are an authority on a subject such as Tongues, yet they don’t speak in Tongues, they do believe Speaking in Tongues is for us today, and nobody in their congregation speaks in tongues. In closing, I must admit, you’ve asked some of the toughest questions there are, in my opinion. And I’ve tried very diligently to address your questions. Thanks, and God bless!

There has been a lot of controversy surrounding Born Again Speaking in Tongues and I hope this will clarify a few things... To receiving the Holy Ghost as they did in the book of Acts, we need to repent, find a church that baptizes full immersion into the water having the NAME of Jesus pronounced over us, and be filled with the Holy Ghost speaking in tongues (Acts chapter 2). Note, receiving the Holy Ghost can be before or after water baptism but never before repentance. Now, the initial speaking in tongues is NOT the gift of tongues a stated in 1Corinthians, it is the SOUND that Jesus spoke of in his conversation with Nicodemus... John 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. [5] Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. [8] The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. When they were filled with the Holy Ghost in Acts chapter 2, they ALL spoke in tongues... Acts 2:4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. I'm not trying to make any of this to sound "super spiritual" but only relating what God Himself intended for his people. When God created all that was created he made a parallel between what is spirit and what is the natural. When a woman is in the hospital birthing room, and the baby is born, it begins to cry, and we know there is movement, there is sound, there is life. When we are baptized in Jesus name and filled with the Holy Ghost speaking in tongues, as it is with the New Testament Church in the book of Acts, we know there is movement, there is sound, there is LIFE, a baby in the church womb is just birthed forth, and is now Born Again, born of Spirit! This initial tongues is like having a car... Although the car has power windows, power locks and radio, none of that is of any use without the battery under the hood. When we get the Holy Ghost speaking in tongues, it is like getting the battery and, now that we have the Holy Ghost the Bible way, we are now candidates to receive and use the power windows, power locks and radio as stated in 1Corinthians 12. -Thank you.

It's not repentance only, but Peter said to... 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. [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.