LEVEL 1 CHAPTER 3 OMEGA DISCIPLE MAKERS COURSE
7 IMPORTANT BELIEVERS BASICS
From the Omega Disciple Makers Course Level 1.
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I will show you what he is like who comes to Me and hears My words and puts them into practice.. He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When the flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, cause it was well built- Jesus Luke 6.47-48
1. SALVATION 1/7
Paul talks about many believers who remain spiritual babies
He mentions repentance, faith, baptisms, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, judgment etc which every believer should be fully aware of, so that no arguments or divisions can occur through ignorance. I have added 2 other topics that are equally as important, that is, salvation, being born again- these we will go through in depth using scripture to lay a solid foundation. Let us start at the beginning-Salvation- what it means, why it is necessary etc.
DEFINITION -SALVATION –STRONG’S CONCORDANCE
The act of being preserved from harm, rescued, made whole, deliverance.
John states that we were all perishing, but those that believed in Jesus and His message of God’s love would not perish, but receive eternal life, starting here on earth, as opposed to eternal death. Jn.3.16
When we die, our spirits will go to 1 of 2 places.
There are 2 Kingdoms according to Jesus- the kingdom of God, and the kingdom of satan-
Which kingdom do we belong to?
When we were first conceived, God’s Spirit gave us life, when we were created as a child to be in His kingdom. As we grew up, we all went our own way and our spirits became corrupted. We chose to do the works of the kingdom of darkness in ignorance, with the result that God’s wrath was upon us and we were destined to go to hell and eternal condemnation. This was because of the original sins of Adam and Eve who where disobedient.
| Jn.12.47 -As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it. |
| Eph.1.13 -you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, |
The Question Is How Is One Saved
Paul tells us that if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Rom.10:9
Saved by grace and by faith
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith not by works, it is the gift of God. v9- not because of works, lest any man should boast; v10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Eph.2.8-10
Once We Are Saved, Are We Always Saved?
Jesus said-only those who hold on to the end will be saved
Paul says – Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Philip.2.12
Peter tells us you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1Pe.1.9
Is it Possible to Lose Our Salvation?
Jesus clearly said, anyone who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is not fit for the Kingdom; In the parable of the seed sower. He tells us of 4 different kinds of seeds, and only one out of the four are saved. This is because of the attractions and problems of this world, return back to where they once were. Peter talks about a pig returning to his sty when we fall away.
Is There Any Other Way to Be Saved Acts.4.12
Salvation is found in no-one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.”
Jesus said-No one comes to the Father but through Me. Jn.14.6
Why Must We Be Saved If We Are ‘Good’ People?
Jesus said-if any one says he has not sinned, they are a liar-we live in a sinful world that can contaminate us. James said-Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. James.1.21
What Other Requirements Are There? Jn.3.3
Jesus declared, “I tell you the truth, no-one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” (Or born from above; also in verses 5,7) This topic will be dealt with in the next chapter.
Conclusion- Salvation means-
To be rescued, delivered or set free, healed, forgiven, cleansed, restored in right standing with God; made whole, a new creature or creation- able to be called children of God, with an eternal inheritance of life everlasting in His Kingdom.
When you first believed, you receive the Holy Spirit of God
(This is a conversion or salvation experience mostly.) Eph1.12/13
New life should have occurred when we are ‘saved’ and we should feel different and people will notice that. Paul calls it a deposit on our future inheritance, but it is not the fullness of the spirit.
This is like a seed planted into our spirits which must now grow.
This is the start of our spirits being totally cleansed and ultimately made new. This is not the baptism of the Holy Spirit or fullness as in part 3 where baptism is dealt with in more detail, but only the beginning.
On a journey of discovery of who we really are, and who we should be.
It is like a journey to a new destination, where all our old habits and corrupted sinful nature is exposed by Holy Spirit within us, much like a voice of conscience to guide us on the beginning of our journey, or like a new plant that has sprouted and starts to push out new leaves and flowers.
2. REPENTANCE 2/7
What is the meaning of Repentance?
Repentance from the Greek- to feel remorse, or be contrite (to have a deep sense of regret and guilt for misdeeds)
Why must we ‘repent ‘? Mark.1.4
John came, baptising in the desert and preaching a baptism of repentance, for the forgiveness of sins. Repentance is all about being ashamed of our past life, and publicly confessing our guilt before God. Repentance requires a confession with our mouth and an action which symbolizes our repentance. Rom.10
How is this done- who helps us? Lk. 24.47
We see repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
Peter said when preaching to the crowd, he told them what to do- “Repent and be baptised, 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. It is only in and through the name of Jesus that our confession is heard in heaven, and into whom we are baptised. Acts.2.38
How can I prove that I have repented? Acts.26.20
When one is saved, repentance will be evident through ones actions.
Paul said First- to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds. Our intentions and actions will show that we have changed- our life will be about the good we can do and not the bad that we used to do.
John the Baptist said “Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance”- when asked what they should do, he gave very practical advice-“if anyone does not have a cloak and you have 2, give them one”; to tax collectors he said “do not exact more than is necessary”- this would prove that you have changed, and that God’s spirit resides in you. Mt 3.8
Jesus said- If someone sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, ‘I repent,’ forgive him.” The same principle applies to us- God WILL forgive our sins, if we repent as well, and gave a figure of 7 times 70. Lk.17.4
One should not be able to sin deliberately 1 John.3.9
We also see in the epistles of John that the person who has been born of God does not, and cannot, sin deliberately; however, this does not mean that we don’t commit sin.
Jesus gave examples of just LOOKING lustfully, or being angry, or insulting someone in; in each case He tells us if we do this, we are in danger of hell– this is all the more reason to confess our sins and repent. Mt.Ch.5
Is it good enough to say I am sorry?
We often forget, or do not realise, the damage, pain and suffering we have caused others, and grieved the spirit of God, when we do not act in love, because God’s Holy Spirit is love.
Paul tells us in Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 2 Cor.7.10
It is not good enough to feel sad, but that our whole being and manner realize truly how sinful we are. Rather it is being truly sorry for ones actions, and doing a U-turn in a sense and staying away from the old life.
This is different from remorse-
Criminals when caught for their sins, have remorse because they were caught- this is not sorrow for the one wronged, but sorrow for themselves because they were found out.
Jesus said-“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Mt.5.3
What this means is that we realise that there is no good thing in us- that we can never be good enough to qualify for entering heaven, and must realise that we are poor in spiritual terms; when we realise this, it will cause us to focus on the Kingdom life and teachings of Jesus, which will help direct our path in a dark world controlled by evil.
JESUS WARNING TO THE CHURCHES-
Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lamp stand from its place. Rev.2.5
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. Rev.3.19
3. BAPTISM 3/7
NOTE-baptism was not new; the Pharisees `washed’ themselves up to 8 x a day to purify themselves from contact with the world-this meant they were unclean by touching others, and had to clean their bodies externally.
WATER BAPTISM- is it necessary?
Baptism is a public declaration of faith in Jesus, and believing His message. Peter commanded them to be baptised in the name of the Lord. Acts10.48
What name is used in baptism? When they heard this, they were baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. Acts19.5
THERE ARE 4 SYMBOLISMS
No 1. A baptism of Repentance (forgiveness of sins)
People came to John the Baptist and were baptised by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. Mat.3:6
He said, “I baptise you with water for repentance.” Mat.3.11
Here we have a totally different baptism-symbolic of an internal washing of one’s own sins, not an external washing as was the normal Jewish custom!
No 2.Baptism of Death
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 be raised in newness of life- this implies dying to our old self. Rom.6.4
No 3.Baptism of Salvation
Jesus said in “He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. Baptism under water, as done by the disciples, is a public declaration of their faith in Jesus. Mark.16.
Paul makes a statement regarding the church of God, that there is one Lord, one faith, one baptism; what he is saying that there is only a baptism to be done once and that of repentance. Eph.4.5
No 4.Baptism of fire and the Holy Spirit
‘For John truly baptised with water, but you shall be baptised with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.’ Acts.1.5
I remembered He said, “John indeed baptised with water, and you shall be baptised with the Holy Spirit.” Acts.11.16
Appolos had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John.-that is a water baptism. Acts.18.25
ANOTHER BAPTISM IS ALSO NEEDED
To complete the process, namely that of being filled with the Holy Spirit; this is the last part of laying on of hands which is vital for the transference of the Holy Spirit in almost all cases. This can only take place if the baptiser is one who himself has the baptism of the Holy Spirit-This could well take place simultaneously with the water baptism, or as in my case before, or even after as in Acts 19.
The Holy Spirit had not yet come upon them, they had only been baptised in the name of Jesus
Here we see that believers had been baptised in water, but the Holy Spirit had not come upon them, until Peter and John had laid hands on them. Acts 8.16
HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM-What happens? (See ‘born again’)
Laying on of hands
When John and Peter laid hands on them, they received the Holy Spirit.
When Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” Acts 8.17-18
Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 9.17
Paul came across believers in Ephesus who had only been baptised with water, he laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. Acts 19.6
NOTE ON WATER BAPTISM
One cannot be baptised ‘in’ the ‘name’ of the Holy Spirit-see below. New converts were all baptised into the name of Jesus- they also called on his name, confessing their sins. Jesus told people while He was alive to be baptised in the name of the Father (Yahweh) and the son, (His name) and of the Holy Spirit Mt.28.19-20
Call on God our Father, in the name of Jesus– John 16.23
This means we call on God our Father, in the name of Jesus (The Son), to baptise us in or of the Holy Spirit. He makes this clear that when He is no longer on Earth, to go directly to God.
We need to be baptised with, and by, the Holy Spirit, calling on the name of God the father, in the name of Jesus. Jn.16.23
We are given the right to be called children of God
The result is that we should walk in newness of life, having been given the right to become children of God, through new birth, or a regenerated spirit, as in born again- from above; fully immersed in living water from above- this total immersion is from the top of our head down, not from our feet upwards
(FROM STRONG’S GREEK CONCORDANCE) 1080, 509)
This is a true born again infilling experience- fully immersed in Living Water flowing down from above, upon us and baptising us in (filled inside) with and by the Holy Spirit– not a typical emotional experience which does not last (see Born again section)
COMPARISON OF THE 2 BAPTISMS
1. Water baptism– –from feet upwards, pray to the father confessing sins in the name of Jesus.
2. Holy Spirit baptism– from head downwards; immersion in heavenly shower. Acts 2.2-4
Note
Experience-The source of power is from above and comes upon a believer; given –by a Holy Spirit filled believer. Acts 19.6
Through laying on of hands; received, inflow and outflow to others and testimony or witness follows on. Result –be filled with power from above as promised by Jesus –outflow of rivers of living water. luke.24.49
Conclusion-It is an inflow from above, upon, filling within, and then an outpouring of power by the Holy Spirit of God.
4. FAITH 4/7
Definition of faith– Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and of what we do not see. Heb.11.1
From the dictionary faith is a strong or unshakeable belief, in something or someone.
Belief, or what you believe in then, is the basis of what is called faith, without being absolutely certain of everything.
All mankind has a strong belief and faith, in something, whether cultural traditions, geographical assumptions and religious persuasions. We can see the possibility of error creeping in, such as when people believed the earth was flat, or that the sun went around the earth; from a religious point of view, beliefs are often based on error, half truth and heresy etc.
From a Christian point of view, faith applies to believing in Jesus.
What He stood for, said, taught and the conviction of absolute truth of the Gospel, even though we have never seen Him.
How does faith originate? (This is ‘saving’ faith for our salvation-not a gift of faith)
Paul tells us faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the Word of Christ. Rom.10.17
How do we know what Jesus said is true?
Jesus often said to the Jews- if you don’t believe in me, believe in Me through the miracles I do-no one else could do them. Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, put their faith in Him. John.11.45.
What does faith depend upon?
Peter tells us for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls- that we are saved by faith. 1 Pet.1.9
Can I do anything to be saved, other than by faith?
Paul tells us for it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God- and not by works. BUT we have been saved-FOR good works (By Holy Spirit) which God pre ordained Eph 2.8-10
How can we prove we have faith?
“You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. James.2.18
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. James.2.26.
We need to test ourselves to see if we have faith.
Paul tells us- examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realise that Christ Jesus is in you-unless, of course, you fail the test? 2 Cor.13.5
Sharing our faith is important, and as we do, we will experience God’s power flow through us.
Paul tells Philemon ‘I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.’ Philip.1.6
Paul shared his faith before the court and King saying he was called by Jesus for the gentiles-to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in Jesus. Acts 26.18
There is another type of faith, and that is the gift of faith.
This is one of the gifts mentioned in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians. This faith is for the working of supernatural events, such as healings, signs, wonders, miracles etc. We will deal with this subject more fully in another chapter in the level 3, whereby I give examples, and principles that Jesus outlined, and the requirements in order for this to happen. 1 Cor.12
Peter said by faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see. Acts 3.16.
Paul said in that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.1 Cor. 2:5
Can we have this faith?
Jesus said that we can do the things he did, and even greater- this part is what I call power component of our faith. Jn. 14.12-14
Is this gift of faith necessary?
Peter had something to say about the faith the disciples had- ‘Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ. To those who through the righteousness of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours.’ -What he was saying that it was a practical faith gift- one that could demonstrate the power of God. 2Pet.1.1
Does faith have different levels?
1 Great faith Jesus answered, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.”And her daughter was healed from that very hour- Jesus said her faith had healed her daughter through Jesus intervention. Mt. 15.28
2 Weak faith Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. Rom. 14.1
3 Little faith He replied, “Because you have so little Mt.17.20
4 Small faith– I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’- it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
5 No faith He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mk. 4.40
5. BORN AGAIN 5/7
Is born again part of Christian teaching?
This is a term that is loosely used, often out of context, by a great many believers, without realising the full implication of what it really means; more importantly, what the results will be when one undergoes this transition- or the evidence of experiencing this dynamic of the supernatural from heaven. It is also a topic that is disregarded by many denominations of the main stream Christian churches, for various reasons, due to a lack of understanding and experience.
What does it mean to be born again?
Heavenly wind– The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the spirit. Jn.3.8
Just like a baby’s birth when it comes into this world, it arrives with no agenda, preconceived ideas and unaware of evil- in the same way, the born again believer will automatically have a spiritual re- birth, or as Jesus put it, your spirit must be made new. The reason here is simple- that whatever evil was in us, no matter how small, from slander, criticism, lies, dishonesty, stealing, violence and murder- these things will not be able to be done deliberately by the one born again. We see this in the epistle of John.
Is it scriptural in the biblical sense, and is it a requirement for believers? Jn.3.1-7
Nicodemus was talking to Jesus, when Jesus told him he would not see, or even enter, the Kingdom of heaven unless he was born again –and when Nicodemus asked how it was possible to be born again, Jesus explained that flesh gives birth to flesh, but spirit gives birth to spirit; this means a spiritual rebirth must take place.
STRONG’S DEFINITION OF BORN AGAIN
From the Greek-
1. Born (strong’s No-1080 gennaw gennao ghen-nah’-o)
-begat 49, be born, 39, bear 2, bring forth 1, be delivered as a baby 1,
2. Again (Strong’s No 509) upward, on the top); -from above 5, top 3, again 2, from the first 1, from the beginning 1,
Not tr 1; 13 from above, from a higher place; of things which come from heaven or God.
Born again means-to be brought forth as a baby from above, from a higher place. 1Pet.1.23
Peter describes it where he says, having been born again, not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever (and by the POWER, or Dunamis, of the Holy Spirit).
To summarise Jesus statement we must be born again.
Jesus is saying that we can only be born again- by our spirits being washed, cleansed, made new, by showers of living water from heaven above, else we cannot enter heaven.
1. Fountain of living water In Jesus said whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” (This is for our initial change and rebirth of our spirit Jn.4.14
2. Rivers of living water The Holy Spirit is likened to water, e.g. rivers of living water from our bellies. (This is the welling up of our fountain, and the overflow which is now for others) Jn.7.38
3. Showers of living water In a previous module on baptism, we see we must be filled with the Holy spirit, from above- like a shower from heaven-This is what is meant by, and about, the water of the Spirit. We need this also from time to time, not just once off. Jn.3.3,5,7
Born again is therefore another way of saying that one is baptised, or filled with the Holy Spirit.
Paul said- Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are Passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 Cor.5.17
Born again believers are given the right to be called children of God. Jn.1.12
John writes- But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
Paul said in the Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. Rom.8.16
The born again believer cannot sin (deliberately).
John writes- Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. 1Jn. 3.9
In closing-If we are born again, then we are children of God.
The expression “born again” therefore means that we have experienced a transformation from darkness into light- our spirit has been made new by The Holy spirit of God; That we are led by His Spirit, and carry out His commands, as well as witnessing to the change that only Jesus can bring.
6. LAYING ON OF HANDS 6/7
What is the purpose of laying hands on people -or touching people?
When we look at Jesus ministry on earth, healings took place when he laid hands on people, and the people came for him to lay hands on them for healing; also when they touched him all were healed.
Healings through touching or laying on of hands Jesus ministry
Jairus, a priest, comes and begs Jesus earnestly, saying, “My little daughter lies at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, that she may be healed, and she will live.” Mk.ch.5.23
A woman with a bleeding issue touches Jesus cloak
While Jesus was on His way to attend to the daughter, a sickly woman with a bleeding issue touched Him, and was healed- she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed .
Jesus realised at once that power had gone out from him.
He turned around in the crowd and asked, Who touched My clothes?” Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering-Jesus looked at her and said-daughter, your faith has made you well-go in peace and be free from suffering. Meanwhile, people came to Jesus to say Jairus daughter had died, not to worry- but He went to her body.
He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (Which means, “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”) Here we see that Jesus ‘touched’ her dead body-Immediately the girl stood up and walked around (She was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished.
Jesus laid His hands on a woman with infirmity, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. Luke.13.13
The Disciples were also given power to lay hands on people
Jesus also told His disciples that those who believed “they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Mk.16.16
Gift of prophecy was given through the laying on of hands.
Paul tells Timothy-I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 2 Tim.1.6
The Baptism of the Holy Spirit through laying on of hands
1. Peter and John laid hands on new believers in Samaria after Philip was there, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts.8.17
And when Simon the sorcerer saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
2. Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptised. (This has happened to myself when once praying for a handyman; more about that later) Act.9.17
Miracles performed through the disciples laying on of hands
1. And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch. Act.5.12
2. The disciples stayed there a long time, speaking boldly in the Lord, who was bearing witness to the word of His grace, granting
Signs and wonders to be done by their hands. Act.14.3
3. Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul. Act.19.11
CONCLUSION
Laying on of hands causes an impartation of power
There is a visible result as a manifestation or presence of God’s Spirit and power at work. This is transference of energy or power from those who are filled with the Holy Spirit. It implies a spiritual impartation or transference through a physical connection, just like a battery when jump starting a car with a flat battery. The reverse is true- spiritual or demonic reception is also possible into ones being. This is the power Jesus mentioned when he gave them power and authority to go out and preach the good news. Luke.9.1
Verbal commands often complete the physical manifestation
When Jesus spoke to the paralytic let down through the roof he said 3 things to confirm His command- ‘stand up, pick up your mat, go home.’
Topics such as healing and manifest gifts of power are dealt with in level 3 in more detail, including all areas of Jesus ministry, together with practical every day examples available to all believers who earnestly seek to be filled with God’s Holy Spirit.
See various written and Video testimonies of how the Lord used me to do miracles, just as He promised we could, and what I have learnt in so doing; also that anyone who truly believes can do the same as Jesus. John 14.12-14
7. JUDGEMENT 7/7
What have we done to deserve judgement?
Why does God judge people- is He not a God of Love-, as the term judgment implies guilt that must be punished, by law-if so, what are we guilty of? Jesus said we were all perishing, on our way to eternal damnation, unless we believe in His message. Jn.3.16
Here we see that all who believe may not perish, but inherit heaven-this implies that all mankind on the planet will not attain heaven unless they believe and are changed by the spirit of God-Why is this? Jesus referred to the devil as the prince of this world, which he rules; also, when the devil tempted Jesus in the desert, he tells Jesus that the world and all its kingdoms belong to him.
Why would we be denied of going to heaven in terms of judgement? Jesus said we were all perishing, and that’s why He came into the world; in other words, we would not be allowed to enter heaven unless we believed.
JUDGEMENT, FROM STRONG’S CONCORDANCE
No 2920 damnation 3, accusation – a separation, sentence of condemnation, damnatory judgment and punishment.
Jesus said His coming brings judgement on disbelievers Jn.9.39
Our words will judge us
But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word spoken. Mt.12.36
Jesus came for God’s judgement
Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”
Jesus Himself does not judge us. Jn.8.15
You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one.
“As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it from God’s judgement. Jn.12
God is the one who Judges us. Jn.8.50
Jesus said I am not seeking glory for myself; but there is one who seeks it, and He is the judge. There is a judge for the one who rejects Me and does not accept My words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. Jn.12.48
He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship Him, who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.” Rev.14.7
What are we are guilty of?
“But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the Day of Judgment. Mt.12.36
Judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mt.12.36
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother (some manuscripts read brother without cause) will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ {An Aramaic term of contempt} is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. Is it not because God has made all men in His image? and that we do not act out of love, which is His commandment- anything that we say or do to others, made in the image of God, that is against this law- will bring divine judgement. Mt.5.22
We are also guilty of judging others.
“Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way as you judge others, you will be judged, with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Mt.7.1-2
A day of Judgement will come.
But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the Day of Judgment than for you. Mt .11.22
How will we know when we are sinning, or anyone else for that matter?
Jesus said when the comforter comes, He will convict the world of guilt {Or will expose the guilt of the world}in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment (note- not condemn; that is God’s work).The Holy Spirit will do that, and help keep us from sin, when we receive Him into our hearts as born again believers Jn.16.8.
Will God forgive us our past sins, as believers?
In closing, a thought-
For God so loved the world that he gave His only son, so that whoever believes may not perish. This means we were all under God’s judgement; However for those who believe in Jesus, and His message of the kingdom, we are delivered from darkness into light. Jn.3.16
When we die, we receive our inheritance.
We receive an inheritance, which we can only claim when we die, of gaining entry into God’s kingdom, So When we repent, we receive salvation, are born again and made right with God, through the promises of the New Covenant between God and man, written and signed by the blood His Son Jesus, shed on the cross at Calvary. Lk.22.20
SUMMARY NOTES ON-BAPTISM
A. WATER BAPTISM –mostly symbolic (Immersed from feet upwards entering water)
It is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ.
It is a Baptism of repentance-confessing sins.
It is a Baptism of salvation-saved by believing in Jesus
It is a Baptism of death to old self-symbolic as one goes under the water.
It is a Baptism of new life-this is the inheritance we obtain.
This is done by the disciples in the book of Acts as follows. Mt 28.19, Acts10.48; 19.5
- Calling on the name of God our Father. John 16.23
- In the Name of Jesus (as the disciples did). John 16.23
- Asking to be forgiven of our sins as we repent.
- Asking to receive His Holy Spirit. Luke 11.13
If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
Things to know about receiving the Holy Spirit-First a CONVERSION experience possibly.
One receives the Holy Spirit (in some measure) when first believing (generally speaking this can be a conversion experience)
The moment you first believed, you received the Holy Spirit, a deposit guaranteeing your Inheritance. In other words, this is for the self or soul of man for spiritual renewal. Eph. 1.13
This means that every TRUE believer has received the Holy Spirit of God in some measure, or to some degree.
B. HOLY SPIRIT BAPTISM meaning (immersed from head down from above and overflowing)-
(Possible at water baptism, before or even after)
Is Given Acts 8.17-18
Is Received Acts 8.17-18
This through laying on of hands mostly Acts.8.17
The Holy Spirit comes upon us. Acts 2.2-4; 19.6
This is an infilling or filled to overflowing. John 4.14
Result is rivers of living water which is for others. John 7.38
This is an out flowing, so need refilling from time to time. (Peter at Pentecost)
How to know if one is filled (baptised) with the Holy Spirit.
- Holy Spirit baptism may occur before, during or after water baptism.
- Being filled or baptised may occur when first believing, or sometime
- Examples are Cornelius the Roman who was filled before baptism.
- Example of disciples at Ephesus who were baptised, but did not receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 19)
- Life is totally different-thinking, speaking and actions.
- One will witness to others about the Kingdom of God and a changed life.
- This will be visible, and evident to others who know you.
- One can hear the Holy Spirit speaking at various times, even talk to Him.
- One is obedient to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
- When praying for others, they will feel warmth
- This is an impartation, or transference of the power or energy of the Holy Spirit.
- People prayed for may be set free, delivered and healed
- One may speak in other languages.
- One will have a real love for the down trodden and broken hearted.
- Will be able to use the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
- Will be able to give prophetic words, revelation, wisdom and knowledge.
- One will be able to bring others into the kingdom, and that the transition will be long lasting.
SUMMARY -7 FOUNDATION BASICS
1. Salvation-Do you remember being ‘saved’ and what was/ is your response.
(Read: Jn. 12v 47; Eph 1 v13; Rom 1v 16; Rom 10 v 10; 2 Cor. 7 v10; Eph 6 v 17)
This is the beginning of a process, that starts with our awareness of our sinful state, a place of pain and suffering emotionally, and that we can never be right with God in our own strength.
That we ask God to help us, save us, set us free, deliver us from bondage, heal us and make us whole- When we are saved, we are essentially set free from bondages, but more importantly, are on our way to being citizens of the Kingdom of heaven.
Lastly-are you grateful for your salvation and that from eternal damnation?
2. Repentance– what ‘fruit’ do you have in keeping with repentance.
As John the Baptist said to the Jews who came to be baptized, we must bear fruit in keeping with repentance. Repentance is not only a onetime event, although it is a sign that we are saved from our past life. In essence every time we sin we are to repent and ask for forgiveness; this is what Jesus taught us. The type of fruit, as James points out, is to do good deeds as led by God’s Holy spirit- John the Baptist said to share our clothes and possessions, time and money-good works, as led by the Holy Spirit, not our own works are what is important.
3. Baptism- were you baptised and how? Did it have any effect on you (not infant christening)
Baptism is a public declaration of submitting to God, a symbolic act of dying to the old self, as Jesus taught, picking up our cross and dying to self. Water in itself will only make one wet; it is what we believe and expect when undergoing baptism that matters greatly- it is possible that while being baptised, an experience of God’s presence and infilling of His Holy spirit in such a way as to be truly ‘washed, cleansed ‘from above may happen with a born again experience.
Have you been baptised with or by the Holy Spirit of God?
If you feel that you have not ‘arrived’ yet, do not worry- Jesus tells us to keep on knocking, asking and seeking, and God is faithful to give us the fullness of His Holy Spirit.
4. Faith-what level of faith are you on, and are you using it?
We see in Romans 10 that faith comes from hearing the word of God as proclaimed by a follower or disciple of Jesus, who is spirit filled, and that the anointing that rests upon him will be tangible in such a manner as to impart faith to the hearer. Paul states that the gospel when preached with power, is the power of God unto salvation, such as when Peter witnessed to Cornelius, the Roman Centurion, whereby they all fell down as the presence of God was manifested with resulting signs and wonders. It will also enable us to do all things through Christ. Rom.1.16.
So have you seen or witnessed any supernatural events- more importantly, are you experiencing God’s power flowing through you-if not, persevere, as your breakthrough may just be around the corner- I was in a state of desperation for 6 days pleading with God to change something, and He did-lifting my faith from zero to infinity. (See next note)
5. Born again-how does one know if one is born again?
Jesus clearly stated in a number of scriptures, the signs following such a person-They will witness as led by the Holy Spirit of God; They will be worshippers of God, filled with gratitude at their salvation; they will lead the lost into His Kingdom; when they pray people will be healed, delivered and set free. Paul said that they will be a new creation, with a renewed spirit- the old is gone, and the new has come. My state of desperation eventually bore fruit, when after 6 days alone on a mountain God poured out what felt like a bucket of fire over me. This state of euphoria became so intense that after 36 hrs I said-God, if this is you, please take it away, as I cannot endure the ecstasy and joy anymore. And so I was born again, and changed forever, with all praise to Him who loves us. So if you feel this is lacking- take heart, persist, and petition God in desperation, and prayer, like I did- it will happen.
6. Laying on of hands-have you ever laid hands on anyone and seen any results?
This is an act of God’s Holy Spirit leading a person to do some action for a particular reason.
Without the unction or prompting of God’s Spirit, nothing can or will happen-this is a perfectly normal part of the spirit led life.
When it happens, your faith will steadily increase and know no bounds- pray that God will remove any fear of man, so that whether or not people get healed it will not affect you when you pray for others-ultimately when something happens, your joy will be full. You will not only experience the energy or power flowing through you, but will see lives transformed in by the power of God..
7. Judgement-has the Holy Spirit ever convicted you of God’s judgement?
Jesus said that we will be judged by 3 things-(these make us a law breaker-of God’s law of love)
These 3 things will condemn us-by breaking God’s law of love
Our thoughts-bitterness, unforgiveness, adultery and anger.
Our words–will acquit or condemn us such as slander and lies; in fact Jesus said-every careless word will judge us!
Our actions-of kindness and love, or violence and bitterness. According to the book of Revelation, all of these events will precede us in heaven, which are written in the book of Life and Judgment.
May the above teachings be a reminder of what we should know about the basics of our faith life. This is very important to know what to believe and know about our faith, so that when arguments arise, we have a fully scriptural foundation from which to work, so that what we believe will not be our opinions, but facts based on scripture
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Blessings