Holy Ghost Archives - The Hermeneutical Quill

Two and Yet One: Understanding the Distinction Between the Holy Ghost and the Holy Spirit

By B.V. Thomas | The Hermeneutical Quill

The Distinction That Would Not Let Me Go

There are moments in the study of Scripture when your mind gets suspended on a word — a single syllable, a capitalisation, a preposition — and something within you knows, with a certainty that precedes explanation, that something is locked in there. That the Spirit placed it there deliberately. That it is not a coincidence, not a copyist’s variation, not a translator’s preference. That it is a door, and it is waiting to be opened.

That is what happened to me every time I worked through the New Testament with careful eyes. I could not shake it. The distinction kept surfacing — the Holy Ghost here, the holy Spirit there — and my spirit would not let me pass over it the way a casual reader might, with a shrug and a note that says “same thing, different translation.” It did not feel like the same thing. It felt like a distinction the Holy Ghost Himself had placed into the Canon and was now pressing me to examine.

I will be honest about what it cost to pursue that examination. There is a friction that comes with crossing an established doctrinal line — even when you are crossing it in the direction of the truth. It feels something like what a pilot must feel when an aircraft approaches the sound barrier: the resistance intensifies, the structure strains, the demand on the engine climbs to its limit. And then — if you hold your course — something breaks open. The barrier gives way. And on the other side is a freedom and a clarity that makes the turbulence entirely worth it.

I have been called worse things than unconventional for what I am about to share. But John 17:3 settles it for me: “this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” To know God — truly, deeply, precisely — is the whole point. And if that pursuit requires me to stand alone with a conviction, then I will stand. The Spirit of God who authored and superintended the Canon of Scripture did not place ninety distinct uses of the term “Holy Ghost” in the King James Bible by accident. Every tittle carries spiritual authority. Every distinction was placed there by the One who breathes through every word.

This article is the third in a trilogy. It is the piece I promised you at the close of the first. It is the priceless discovery I could not fit into the anointing article without reducing it to a footnote — and it is too important for that. Come with me now. The door is open.

Why the King James Version Matters Here

Before we can explore the distinction itself, we must address the version of Scripture that preserves it — because without this foundation, everything that follows will seem like a house built on sand.

Some will say the King James Version is imperfect. Some will point to its archaic language, its translation choices, its historical context. And there are legitimate scholarly conversations to be had about all of those things. But what cannot be dismissed — what must not be dismissed — is the nature of what the King James Bible represents in the history of God’s dealings with mankind.

The Holy Ghost did not merely permit the King James Bible. He superintended it. He inspired it. He chose the men who produced it and breathed upon their work in a way that has borne fruit for over four hundred years. The world was permeated with the glory of God through the missionaries, the laymen, the preachers, and the martyrs who were forged by this Scripture. Fierce and blood-thirsty tribes were transformed. Parched lands bloomed. The modern foundations of Christendom were laid by men and women whose entire theological formation came from this Canon. That is not the work of a flawed translation. That is the signature of the Holy Ghost upon a chosen vessel.

The Jewish poet Haim Nachman Bialik said that reading Scripture in translation is like kissing your bride through a veil. But what Bialik was lamenting was the loss of the original Hebrew — not the argument that all translations are equal. Some translations carry the breath of their Author more faithfully than others. And when it comes to the specific distinction we are about to examine — the distinction between the Holy Ghost and the holy Spirit — the King James Bible is alone among English translations in preserving it with consistency.

Notice the lowercase “h” in “holy Spirit” in the KJV. Notice the uppercase “H” and “G” in “Holy Ghost.” Was this an accident of typography? A printer’s inconsistency? My spirit will not accept that. This is Canon. This is the Sword of the Spirit. Every tittle and every dot carries spiritual authority — and I choose to treat it accordingly, even when it places me outside the comfort of consensus.

With that foundation laid, let us look at what the distinction actually means.

The Spirit of the Son

Every believer knows, from the moment of their new birth, that the Spirit of God dwells within them. But which Spirit? The answer matters more than most have ever been told.

The Spirit that every born-again believer receives at the moment of salvation is the Spirit of the Son — the Spirit of Christ — what the King James Bible consistently renders as the “holy Spirit.” Let the Scriptures speak for themselves.

“Because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father” — Galatians 4:6. “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of Christ dwell in you: now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” — Romans 8:9. “According to my earnest expectation and my hope… through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ” — Philippians 1:19.

This is the holy Spirit — the Spirit of the Son, the Spirit of Christ, the Spirit of Jesus Christ. It is the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry Abba, Father — Romans 8:15. It is the Spirit of grace — Hebrews 10:29. It is the Spirit of truth — John 14:17. It is the seal of salvation — “ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise” — Ephesians 1:13. It is by this Spirit that every believer is baptized into one body — 1 Corinthians 12:13. It is the “Chrisma” — the smearing, the endowment — that abides in every member of the body of Christ — 1 John 2:27.

This is the Spirit of sonship. The Spirit that joins us to Christ and makes us joint-heirs with Him — Romans 8:17. The Spirit that causes us to cry out to the Father not as strangers but as children. The Spirit that intercedes within us with groanings that cannot be uttered — Romans 8:26.

And it is the Spirit that can be received afresh, repeatedly, as we yield and open ourselves to His filling. “Be filled with the Spirit” — Ephesians 5:18 — is a present continuous command. It is not a one-time event but a constant, renewable posture of surrender. “The supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ” — Philippians 1:19 — is an ongoing provision, not a fixed deposit. This is the well that never runs dry for the thirsty believer.

Every genuine Christian possesses this Spirit. It is the minimum threshold of belonging to Christ — “if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” It is the foundation upon which everything else in the spiritual life is built.

The Spirit of the Father

Now we come to the deeper mystery.

The Holy Ghost is not a synonym for the holy Spirit. He is the third person of the Godhead — the Spirit of God, the Spirit of the Father — and His operations in Scripture are distinct, weighty, and unmistakable once you have eyes to see them.

Consider how He is introduced. “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: when as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost” — Matthew 1:18. The Holy Ghost is the one who overshadowed the Virgin Mary. The Holy Ghost is the one through whom the Word took flesh. He is the creative, originating, overshadowing power of the Highest — “the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God” — Luke 1:35.

This is not the Spirit of the Son. This is the Spirit of the Father — the Spirit that brought the Son into the world, that raised Him from the dead — Romans 8:11 — and that descended upon Him at the Jordan River in the form of a dove — Matthew 3:16.

The Holy Ghost is the one who descended upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost — “they were all filled with the Holy Ghost” — Acts 2:4. He is the one Jesus described as rivers of living water — John 7:37-39. He is poured out — Acts 10:45. He falls upon — Acts 8:16; 11:15. He comes upon — Acts 1:8. He is not merely received within — He descends from without, enveloping the vessel He fills.

The Holy Ghost has gifts — Hebrews 2:4. He gives commands — Acts 1:2; 21:11. He functions of His own sovereign will — 1 Corinthians 12:11. He teaches — 1 Corinthians 2:10-14. He can be blasphemed — and such blasphemy, Jesus said, is the one unpardonable sin — Matthew 12:31,32. No man can even confess that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Ghost — 1 Corinthians 12:3.

This is the Spirit that Jesus promised the Father would send — “I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter” — John 14:16. This is the promise of the Father — Acts 1:4. This is the endowment with power from on high — Luke 24:49. This is the gift — “the gift of the Holy Ghost” — Acts 2:38; 10:45 — that Christ came to pave the way for, removing every obstacle so that this supreme and sovereign gift could be freely given to mankind.

The baptism with the Holy Ghost is the immersion of the entire being into this Spirit — the fullness of the Father Himself taking up residence not merely within the believer but upon them, around them, filling them to overflowing. This is what it means to be full of the Holy Ghost — Luke 4:1; Acts 6:3; 7:55; 11:24. This is not the same as being filled with the Spirit of Christ, though the two are related. This is the weight of the Father Himself descending upon a prepared and sanctified vessel.

One Essence, Two Distinct Operations

We must pause here before we go further — because the distinction we are drawing could, if mishandled, be heard as an argument for two Gods, or two competing Spirits, or a division within the Godhead that does not exist.

Let me be unequivocal: there is one God. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost are of one essence, one nature, one divine being. And God is a Spirit. “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one” — 1 John 5:7. “I and my Father are one” — John 10:30. “Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me” — John 14:11. The oneness of the Godhead is not compromised by the distinction we are drawing.

What we are drawing is an operational distinction — not an ontological one. They are of one essence, but they operate distinctly. This is not a new idea — it is embedded in the very grammar and structure of the New Testament, preserved with care in the King James Canon, and confirmed by the lived experience of every believer who has known both the indwelling of the holy Spirit and the overshadowing of the Holy Ghost.

Think of it this way. Light and heat proceed from the same flame. They are inseparable in their source. You cannot have one without the other being present. Yet they are distinct in their effect — light illuminates, heat transforms. You experience them differently. You describe them differently. To say they are the same in every sense is to flatten a reality that is richer than that description allows.

So it is with the Spirit of the Son and the Spirit of the Father. Both proceed from the Father — “which proceedeth from the Father” — John 15:26; John 8:42. Both are given by God. Both are real, both are present, both are active in the life of the believer. Yet they are distinct in their operation — the holy Spirit indwells, the Holy Ghost envelops. The holy Spirit is received by faith, the Holy Ghost is received by obedience — Acts 5:32. The holy Spirit seals, the Holy Ghost empowers.

And the Father is greater — “my Father is greater than I” — John 14:28; 1 Corinthians 15:28. Not greater in essence — but greater in the order of the Godhead. The Son proceeds from the Father. The Holy Ghost proceeds from the Father. The Father is the source from which both flow. This is not subordinationism — it is the beautiful order of a Trinitarian God who is simultaneously one and three, equal in essence and ordered in operation.

 The Hypostatic Union and the Unique Persona of Christ

To understand this distinction fully, we must look at the One in whom both Spirits were uniquely united — Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of Man, the Son of God.

When the Holy Ghost came upon the Virgin Mary, something mysterious and unprecedented occurred. The Word — who was with God, and was God — John 1:1,2 — took flesh. He became one with mankind. The eternal Son of God entered the created order through the womb of a woman, conceived by the Spirit of the Father. And in doing so, a distinction was created that had never existed before: the Word, which is the Spirit of Christ, the holy Spirit of the Son — was now clothed in human flesh, bearing a human nature alongside the divine.

This is the hypostatic union — the doctrine that Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man simultaneously, two natures united in one person. It is the deepest mystery of the Incarnation and the key to understanding why both Spirits are real, both are given, and both are necessary.

Notice what happened at the Jordan River. Jesus — already the Son of God, already carrying within Him the Word, the holy Spirit — was anointed by the Holy Ghost who descended upon Him in the form of a dove. The Father’s voice came from heaven: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” — Matthew 3:17. The Father-Son union, which had been present from eternity, was now openly declared and divinely confirmed. The Holy Ghost — the Spirit of the Father — descended upon the One who already carried the Spirit of the Son. The two were reunited upon and within the same vessel in a way that had never been seen before.

From that moment, Jesus was full of the Holy Ghost — Luke 4:1. And it was from that fullness that He declared His mission in the synagogue at Nazareth: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me” — Luke 4:18. The holy Spirit was within Him as the Word. The Holy Ghost was upon Him as the anointing of the Father. Both present. Both real. Both operating — yet one person, one Christ, one Anointed.

When Jesus breathed on His disciples after the resurrection and said “Receive the Holy Ghost” — John 20:22 — He was imparting the holy Spirit, the Spirit of the Son, the Spirit of Christ. This was the deposit, the indwelling, the seal of belonging. But when the Holy Ghost descended on the Day of Pentecost — Acts 2:4 — that was the Father’s Spirit being poured out from on high. The first was the breath of the Son. The second was the fire of the Father. Both necessary. Both real. Both given.

And Jesus himself said it plainly: “I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter” — John 14:16. The Comforter He would send from the Father was distinct from the Spirit He had already breathed upon them. Not separate in essence — but distinct in operation, in source, in the weight and nature of the gift.

What This Means for the Believer's Experience

Why does any of this matter? Why spend so much careful attention on a distinction that most Christians never think about?

Because it explains things. It resolves confusions that have plagued sincere believers for generations. It answers the question: “why do some spiritual experiences feel different from others? Why does the infilling seem to repeat, while the baptism feels like a threshold I crossed once and did not uncross? Why do some believers seem to carry a weight and authority that others, equally sincere, equally gifted, do not?”

The answer is precisely here. There are two distinct operations of the Spirit available to the believer — and understanding the difference between them is the key to understanding both your own experience and your own spiritual inheritance.

The infilling of the holy Spirit — the Spirit of Christ — is repeatable. It is the well you return to. “Be filled with the Spirit” is a continuous command because continuous filling is available. Every time you yield, every time you open yourself in surrender and seek, the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ is there — Philippians 1:19. This is not a lesser experience. It is the foundation of the entire Christian life. Without it, you do not belong to Christ. With it, you are sealed, adopted, indwelt, and equipped for every basic work of God.

The baptism with the Holy Ghost — the Spirit of the Father — is of a different order. It is not repeatable in the same sense. It is a threshold — a once-for-all immersion that marks a level of spiritual maturity and consecration that few believers press through to receive. You can be filled with the holy Spirit many times. You are baptized with the Holy Ghost once — and that baptism transforms you in ways that the ongoing filling, precious as it is, does not. It is the fullness of God — “filled with all the fulness of God” — Ephesians 3:19. It is the endowment with power from on high — Luke 24:49. It is the Father Himself making His home in the sanctified and surrendered vessel — John 14:23.

One you receive by faith. The other you receive by obedience — Acts 5:32. One is given to every believer at salvation. The other is available to every believer through the long road of surrender, sanctification, and consecration — but few choose to walk that road to its end.

This is not favouritism. God shows no partiality — Acts 10:34. But Matthew 22:14 remains true: many are called, and few are chosen — not because God withholds, but because few are willing to pay the price the fullness demands. The vessel must be prepared. The new wine requires the new bottle. And the making of a new bottle is a process that involves fire, pressure, and the surrender of everything the old bottle held onto.

What This Means for You

Let me bring this home to where you live.

If you are a believer in Christ, you have the holy Spirit. The Spirit of the Son dwells within you. You are sealed, adopted, and indwelt. The “Chrisma” — the anointing of the Holy One — abides in you — 1 John 2:27. You are not spiritually empty. You are not unannointed. You are not waiting for God to begin. He has already begun. His Spirit is already within you, already teaching you, already interceding for you, already bearing witness with your spirit that you are a child of God — Romans 8:16.

That is the foundation. Settle it. Own it. Walk in it.

But there is more. The promise of the Father — the gift of the Holy Ghost — is not reserved for an apostolic age that has passed. It is not locked away in the first century. “The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” — Acts 2:39. The Father’s Spirit is still being poured out. The rivers of living water are still flowing. The fire of Pentecost has not been extinguished.

What it requires is what it has always required — a vessel that has been emptied of itself, purged of its offense, broken of its pride, and surrendered without reservation. Not a perfect vessel — there is no such thing on this side of glory. But a yielded one. A vessel that has said, with the whole weight of its being: *here I am. All of me. Whatever the cost.

The pursuit of this fullness will cost you things you are not yet aware of. It will take you to places that are lonelier than you imagined. It will bring opposition from directions you did not expect. It will require you to cross lines that feel restricted, to press through barriers that feel impenetrable, to hold a conviction when consensus abandons you.

But the knowing that waits on the other side — the knowing of God, the knowing of Jesus Christ, which is itself eternal life — John 17:3 — is worth every step of the journey. The Logos is good. But the Rhema — the engrafted word that the Spirit breathes alive within the surrendered heart — is where true life hides. It sets you free. It brings you home.

Two and yet one. Distinct in operation, inseparable in essence, given by the same Father who loves you enough to give you not merely His Son but His very Spirit — in fullness, without measure, to the vessel willing to receive it.

That is the gift. Go after it with everything you have.

A NOTE TO THE READER:

This article is the third and final piece in a trilogy. It follows “The Anointing Belongs to You: Unveiling the True Significance of Anointing and Baptism with the Holy Ghost” and “You Don’t Know What You Are Asking For: The Voice, the Years, and What God Showed Me.” Each article can be read independently, but together they form a complete exploration of the anointing, the Holy Ghost, and the full spiritual inheritance available to every believer in Christ.

—

The SELF-EFFACING Nature of the HOLY GHOST: A Call to True Transformation

The self-effacing nature and character of the Holy Ghost is a concept that challenges us profoundly and reveals the humility at the heart of the Godhead. The term “self-effacing” refers to the act of making oneself less prominent, which aligns with how the Holy Ghost is viewed within Christian theology: as a humble presence that works in the background, guiding, empowering, and always pointing to the Father and the Son rather than drawing attention to Himself. This makes the Holy Ghost distinct in His role but not separate in essence. The Holy Spirit’s self-effacing nature does not diminish His divinity, but rather, it contributes to the unity and harmony of the Godhead, demonstrating how the three Persons of the Triune Godhead can be distinct yet fully united.

This distinction, while profound, does not indicate any separation of the divine essence. The Holy Ghost, like the Father and the Son (The Word), shares the same divine essence within the Godhead. Each of the three Persons is fully and equally God, yet their roles are distinct. The concept of “perichoresis”, or the interpenetration of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, is one of the most mind-bending aspects of Christian theology. Perichoresis reveals the profound mystery that the three Persons of the Trinity exist in perfect, mutual indwelling. Each is fully in the other, and yet they remain distinct. There is no separation, but neither is there any blending or confusion of identity. It’s as though they dance together in a divine rhythm of unity and distinction, constantly giving and receiving love and glory from one another.

This interpenetration of the Godhead is not a static relationship but a dynamic, relational one that stretches the limits of human understanding. The Holy Spirit plays a unique role in making this divine, relational reality accessible to us. Through the Spirit, we experience the love and unity of the Godhead—guiding us, interceding for us, and making us partakers of the divine life. The Holy Spirit’s self-effacing nature, then, does not lessen the divine mystery; instead, it unveils the depth of humility and unity at the heart of God. The more we contemplate this mystery, the more vast and profound it becomes.

“And truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ.” 1 John 1:3

In this verse, we see the self-effacing nature of the Spirit of God. Rather than drawing attention to His own name, He stands in union with the body of Christ, directing our hearts and affections solely to the Father and the Son, Jesus Christ. The Spirit’s role is not to seek glory for Himself but to lead us into deeper fellowship with the Father and the Son, demanding our ultimate devotion to them.

Yet, in many modern teachings, there is an emphasis on fellowship with the Holy Spirit, a concept that, while important in the Christian life, isn’t directly highlighted in the way the Word of God emphasizes fellowship with the Father and the Son. The Bible consistently focuses on our relationship with the Father through the Son, with the Spirit humbly working to draw us into that divine fellowship. As 2 Corinthians 13:14 says, ‘The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost be with you all.’ This verse speaks to the fellowship of the Holy Ghost, which refers to the unity and communion the Spirit creates among believers, rather than focusing on an individual fellowship with the Spirit Himself.

The difference between “fellowship with” and “fellowship of” highlights both the nature of the relationship and the specific role of the Holy Ghost in that fellowship.

In 1 John 1:3, when it speaks of “fellowship with the Father and with the Son,” the Greek word “μετά (meta)” emphasizes a “shared participation” or “mutual communion.” This points to a “close, active relationship” between believers and the Father and Son, where they are in ongoing fellowship together. The focus is on the believers’ direct communion with God. This is why, in Scripture, we see the Spirit within the believer crying out, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6). The Holy Spirit does not seek to draw attention to Himself, but rather, His work is to direct our hearts to the Father. It is the Spirit’s role to make us aware of our sonship in Christ and our intimate relationship with God, the Father. The believer’s prayer should naturally be one of communion with the Father and the Son, with the Spirit facilitating that relationship, not speaking to the Spirit Himself. The emphasis is always on “our union with the Father and the Son” through the Holy Spirit, not on a personal, direct fellowship “with” the Spirit as an isolated focus. The Spirit leads us into the presence of the Father, enabling us to pray and commune with God, but the ultimate goal is not a relationship “with” the Spirit alone, but with the “Father and the Son”.

However, in 2 Corinthians 13:14, the phrase “fellowship of the Holy Spirit” uses the Greek article “ἡ (hē),” which shifts the emphasis from the believers’ relationship with the Holy Spirit to the Spirit’s role as the mediator and source of fellowship between believers and the Father and Son. Here, the Spirit is not the object of the fellowship but the agent who facilitates and enables that communion with the Godhead.

Modern teachings on “fellowship with the Holy Spirit” sometimes blur this distinction, presenting the Holy Spirit as a companion or friend with whom we have a direct, personal relationship. While the Spirit does indwell believers and guide them, the New Testament highlights that the Spirit’s primary role is not to be the centre of our fellowship but to connect us to the Father and the Son. The Spirit facilitates our relationship with God, making communion with Him possible. When we focus too much on fellowship with the Holy Spirit alone, we risk missing the point of the Spirit’s work. The Spirit does not seek to be the focus of our communion, but rather, He points us back to the Father and Son, glorifying them and deepening our relationship with them.

Thus, “fellowship with” emphasises the mutual relationship we have with God, whereas “fellowship of” underscores the Holy Spirit’s vital role in enabling and facilitating that relationship. Both phrases ultimately refer to the same reality—believers being in communion with God—but they point to different aspects of that fellowship: the direct participation with the Father and Son, and the Spirit’s essential work in bringing us into that communion.

While the Holy Spirit does dwell in us and plays a crucial role in our spiritual lives, His ultimate mission is not to be the central focus of our relationship with God but to “point us to the Father and the Son. The idea that the Holy Spirit wants us to make Him our “closest friend” can lead to a misunderstanding of His true purpose. The Spirit’s role is not to bring attention to Himself or draw us into a relationship “with” Him, but to bring us into deeper communion with “Jesus Christ.”. As John 16:14 says, “He will glorify Me (Jesus),” emphasizing that the Spirit’s mission is always to magnify Christ, not Himself.

This is where such teachings becomes deceptive. If we focus too much on having fellowship “with” the Holy Spirit as the ultimate goal, we risk diverting our attention from “Christ,” who is the true source of life, truth, and revelation. In 2 Corinthians 3:17, it says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom,” emphasizing that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ. His role is to “glorify Christ”, lead us to Christ, and deepen our relationship with Him.

When someone teaches that we should pursue a deeper friendship with the Holy Spirit apart from Christ, it can subtly shift the focus away from the “true source of life—Jesus. The Holy Spirit works to bring us “closer to Christ,” not to Himself. If we make the Holy Spirit the primary focus of our relationship, we may unknowingly misplace our attention and neglect “the central role of Jesus” as the One who reconciles us to the Father and gives us eternal life.

In short, while it is crucial to have a relationship with the Holy Spirit and be sensitive to His leading, His ultimate role is to “point us back to Christ.”. Any teaching that distracts from Jesus Christ as the centre of our faith distorts the gospel. The Holy Spirit will never seek to glorify Himself; He will always lead us to Jesus, the true source of our life and communion with God. So, at its core, this teaching is dangerous because it risks drawing believers away from the “only true source of life—Jesus Christ.”.

A Sad Truth: The Disconnect Between Profession and Evidence

As we reflect on the self-effacing nature of the Holy Ghost and His role in the Triunity, we are confronted with a troubling reality: “How can we claim to be born of the Spirit of God yet bear no resemblance to Him in any way?”

In Christian theology, the Holy Spirit is not a passive occupant of our lives but an active agent of transformation. If we are truly born of the Spirit, there should be a visible change—a fruit that reflects the character and nature of the Spirit. This is why it is so saddening when we encounter individuals who profess to be temples of the Holy Ghost yet show little to no evidence of that transformative power. They claim to have the Spirit, but there is no resemblance of His nature in their character. After many years of professed faith, this lack of transformation raises a very real concern: Do they truly have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, or are they inhabited by a counterfeit spirit that pretends to be from God?

The presence of the Holy Spirit is meant to bring about a profound change in our lives—the life of Christ within us. Though it may begin small, there must be some kind of evidence of His life and growth in us, unfolding in a continuous manner. The transformation is not static; it should be evident in our thoughts, actions, and attitudes as we become more aligned with Christ’s nature, reflecting His love, holiness, and power day by day. Otherwise, isn’t it just a sham of a religion—a mere self-deception? If there’s no tangible transformation or evidence of the Holy Spirit at work within us, then what are we really holding on to? Without the life of Christ manifesting in us, we might just be going through the motions, fooling ourselves into thinking we have a relationship with God when, in fact, we might be missing the true power of His presence.

The presence of the Holy Spirit is meant to bring about a profound change in our lives. Jesus, in speaking about being born again of the Spirit (John 3:5-8), emphasised that the new birth is not just a superficial claim but a radical transformation that begins from within. If the Holy Spirit truly dwells in us, we should see the fruit of that transformation, as evidenced in the qualities of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). At least in the long run, the fruits of the Spirit should begin to bear in our lives, along with a deep, growing desire for the Word of God and to possess His divine nature. There should also be a strong aversion to everything that sin stands for—its corruption, its deceit, and its destruction. As the Holy Spirit works within us, we should find ourselves increasingly drawn away from sin and toward the holiness of God, with a heart that mourns over what grieves Him. If there is no visible change, no evidence of the Spirit’s work, then we must ask whether the indwelling of the Spirit is genuine.

It is not merely a matter of doctrinal affirmation or intellectual assent; it is about a deep, internal change that leads to external action. The Holy Spirit’s presence is meant to make a tangible difference in the way we live, think, and interact with the world around us. So, when there is no transformation, we are faced with the sobering question, “Has the Spirit truly worked within us, or have we resisted His work for too long?”

The Self-Effacing Nature as a Model for Our Own Lives

As we reflect on the self-effacing nature of the Holy Ghost, we are called to imitate this humility in our own lives. The Holy Spirit, in His quiet, self-effacing role within the Godhead, sets a profound example for us. If we are truly born of the Spirit, His nature should gradually become our own. The humility that characterises the Spirit should begin to shape our hearts and actions. Jesus Himself exemplified this ultimate humility, displaying the essence of self-effacement in His willingness to take on the form of a servant, even to the point of death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8).

This self-effacing character of the Holy Spirit invites us to reflect Christ’s humility, not as a momentary decision but as a steady, transformative process. It is a slow but steady journey of becoming more like Christ, choosing to place others above ourselves, as Jesus taught in Philippians 2:3-4. This is not a one-time act but an ongoing transformation. It requires yielding to the Spirit, who empowers us to serve others selflessly and to seek their good above our own.

The challenge is significant in a world that constantly values self-promotion and recognition. But Jesus calls us to a radically different way of being. Humility, as modelled by the Holy Ghost, is not about self-deprecation or feeling inferior; it is about valuing others as God does and seeking their good. The Holy Spirit works within us, shaping our hearts to reflect the self-giving love of Christ. This transformation happens gradually, and as we embrace the Spirit’s humility, we become more attuned to the heart of God.

Imitating the Father is a child’s natural disposition.

That’s such a beautiful way to put it, isn’t it? A child naturally imitates their parents—it’s a part of how they learn, grow, and bond. In the same way, we, as children of God, are called to imitate our Heavenly Father. For a child, imitation isn’t just a conscious choice—it’s an instinct, something that flows out of their love and dependence on their parents. Similarly, for us, imitation of the Father should come out of our relationship with Him—an intimate connection that naturally shapes who we are, how we act, and how we love.

In my culture, there’s an old proverb that goes: ‘The stones on which the jasmine drops its pollen will carry its fragrance too.’ This proverb beautifully reflects the same truth—just as the stone, though hard and unyielding, absorbs the fragrance of the jasmine’s pollen, we too, as children of God, are meant to absorb His character, His goodness, and His love. Just as the stone cannot help but carry the scent of the jasmine that falls upon it, our lives should naturally carry the fragrance of God’s love, purity, and holiness because of our close, intimate relationship with Him. It’s not forced; it flows from our bond with our Heavenly Father, shaping how we act, how we love, and how we reflect His image in the world around us.

Jesus taught us to call God “Our Father” and to model our lives after His. Just as a child looks up to their parents and desires to mimic their actions, we, as God’s children, are invited to reflect His character, His love, and His self-giving nature in our own lives. It’s not just about trying to follow rules; it’s about embodying His heart in a way that feels as natural as a child copying their parent’s every move.

So, yes—just as imitation is a child’s everyday hobby, it should also be a believer’s everyday pursuit. It’s a beautiful, ongoing act of growth, learning, and becoming more like our Heavenly Father as His Spirit shapes us into His likeness. What do you think? Does that idea resonate with how you view discipleship or the process of spiritual growth?

Living Out the Evidence of the Spirit

Ultimately, the evidence of being born of the Spirit is transformation. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” This is not a shallow change—it is a radical shift that takes place deep within the soul. The old self, dominated by sin and selfishness, must give way to the new self, which reflects the character of Christ. Being born of the Spirit means that we are progressively becoming more like Christ as the Holy Spirit shapes our desires, attitudes, and actions.

Yet, this transformation is not instantaneous. It is a gradual process, and sometimes the changes are slow. However, if the Holy Spirit truly dwells in us, we should see some sign of growth, however subtle or small. The absence of any resemblance to Christ’s character should lead us to question the authenticity of our spiritual transformation. It is a sobering thought, but it is one we must face in our walk with God.

Conclusion: Yielding to the Spirit’s Transforming Power

The self-effacing nature of the Holy Spirit not only speaks to the humility of God within the Triunity but also challenges us to reflect that same humility in our lives. As we become more like Christ, the Holy Spirit works within us to cultivate a character marked by love, selflessness, and humility. If we are born of the Spirit, there should be visible signs of that transformation in our lives—both in character and in action. Let us yield to the Holy Spirit’s work, embracing the divine humility He models, so that we may reflect the heart of God in everything we do.

A comprehensive study on WATER BAPTISM.

A Jewish poet named Haim Nachman Bialik said, “He who reads the Bible in translation is like kissing your new bride through a veil.”

The poet is right on target. I included his remark to alert the reader to the fact that we will be dissecting several Greek words and prepositions in this chapter to better comprehend and support what I am attempting to say.

The reader should anticipate encountering repeated verses, as the author found it necessary to emphasize the core of the issue.

"Is Our Understanding of Water Baptism Misguided?"

This ritual may not appear significant to many as it is often seen as a mere tradition. I too viewed baptism as a mere symbol according to the church’s teachings. However, thankfully, God granted me the ability to investigate further, and as I received enlightenment from the Lord, my viewpoint changed, and I now acknowledge its deep importance.

To help readers grasp the truth of God’s word, the author urges them to read the text with an open mind, devoid of bias, and with a focus on Christ. Note that the references in this article are from the King James Version, and alternative versions might not align with my points.

Before proceeding, I must clarify some key points regarding the significance and intent of water baptism.

Many denominations have failed to grasp or have overlooked a crucial aspect of baptism, which is a serious issue that has to be addressed. The issue is that one faction asserts that it is necessary to baptize individuals in the name of Jesus, while another insists on following Jesus’ command to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Why is the polarity so strong? Does the meaning change in either of the contexts? What leads people to believe that the two have distinct meanings or outcomes? One rejects the triune formula, the other rejects the name. Some even question the validity of the text itself, Matthew 28:19, from which the triune formula is derived. We’ll talk about that as well.

What I understood is that while each side has a valid point, they have overlooked the crucial information that unites them into one ultimate conclusion. Let’s ask ourselves a few questions.

What is the ONE WAY to come to the Father?
By what NAME are we granted the right to be declared righteous?
Whose NAME is to be proclaimed to all the world?
Through WHOM do we receive remission of sins?
Through faith in whose NAME are we made complete or reconciled?
In whom should we believe as Christ so that we may have life through that NAME?
Which NAME strikes fear into the devils and brings deliverance and salvation to those who call upon it?
What NAME should one confess to be saved?
Whose NAME did God highly exalt?
What is the one NAME given among men under heaven, whereby we must be saved?
After what NAME is the ecclesia of God named?
What NAME should we be identified with and conform to?
Into what NAME should one be baptized?
In whose death, burial, and resurrection should we be planted or participate?

The Scripture is clear: It is through believing that JESUS IS THE CHRIST AND LORD and having faith IN HIS NAME and being baptized INTO that name, redeems a soul – Matthew 12:21; John 14:6/20:31; Acts 2:36/3:16/ 4:12/10:43; Romans 6:3/9:17/10:9; Galatians 3:27. The rulers, and elders, and scribes, and the kindred of the high priest asked, By WHAT POWER (Dunamis – doo’-nam-is), or BY WHAT NAME (Onoma – on’-om-ah), have ye done this? Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth – Acts 4:5-10. Keep in mind that the term “onoma,” signifying “name,” is utilized in reference to the name, rather than the term “exousia,” which conveys “authority.”

The rulers and elders were displeased when they heard THE NAME used to cast out devils and impart knowledge. They questioned, “Did we not tell you not to impart knowledge or do anything IN THAT NAME?” Acts 5:28 The apostles did not just exercise their authority in Christ but proclaiming the name of Christ was their primary duty; with the purpose that AT THE NAME OF JESUS every knee should bow, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth; and every tongue confess that JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, to the glory of God the Father. The preaching of Jesus Christ was their prime objective – Romans 16:25; 1 Corinthians 2:2/15:14; 2 Corinthians 1:19/11:4; Acts 3:20/4:2,10/5:42/8:35/ 17:18; Galatians 2:20.

The Lord commanded to Israel, “In all that I have said unto you, be circumspect: and make no mention of THE NAME of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth” – Exodus 23:13. How do heathens call on their idol gods? Or how do pagan people invoke their idols? The Pagans invoke their idols by addressing them by name, while we invoke the existence of the real God by approaching Jesus Christ, confessing His divinity and praising Him as God alone. How do we summon the true and living God? Do we approach Him, acknowledge Him as God and praise Him as God alone? No, we CALL UPON THE NAME of the Lord, which is Jesus Christ. It is the name of Jesus Christ that we exalt and preach, in whom dwells all the fullness of God bodily.

What did Prophet Elijah ask the prophets of Baal to do? He said, “CALL ON THE NAME of your gods, and I will CALL ON THE NAME of the Lord.” 1 Kings 18 The Lord God was the name given to that generation to call upon – Exodus 3:15; and that’s what Elijah invoked.

2. Faith IN THE NAME of Jesus Christ is the key to life’s answers. The confession of the mouth reveals devotion to an entity. The spirit of the revered entity dwelling within the devotee leads them to lionize that name. In other words, the expression of love through the mouth signifies dedication to something. The devoted person praises the name of the entity they admire due to the spirit residing within it – 1 Corinthians 12:3; John 8:44. Jesus Christ of Nazareth destroyed the strong man – Matthew 12:29; Luke 11:21,22; he destroyed him that had the power of death, that is, the devil – Hebrews 2:14. And until that name is called, the opponent will not let go of a soul from his custody – Romans 10:13; Acts 4:12/22:16. That is where God’s power dwells – 1 Corinthians 1:24; Romans 1:16; Revelation 12:10. I will take the cup of salvation and CALL UPON THE NAME of the Lord – Psalm 116:13. God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ – Acts 2:36. Should one call on that name for salvation and the forgiveness of sins? or Is it just about the authority of the name, which we must focus on alone, and that invoking the name holds no merit? – Acts 2:38/22:16; Romans 10:13. Is invoking a name truly meritless or should we direct our focus towards the authority that the name carries? The name holds authority and power, but it is only through using the name that we can access this power. In essence, applying the name releases God’s power. Invoking that name alone saves a soul from sin, the power of Satan, the curse of the law, the wrath of God, the evil world, the works of the flesh, and more. Jesus said, and whatsoever ye shall ask IN MY NAME, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. As you can see, exalting the Son exalts God; faith in Jesus equates to faith in God – John 12:44. He that believes not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abides on him – John 3:36; He that believeth on him (Jesus Christ) is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed IN THE NAME of the only begotten Son of God – John 3:18; 1 John 5:9-12.

3. By whose name are we identified, and often gather? In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, we gather together – 1 Corinthians 5:4. In contrast to that, the kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together AGAINST the Lord and his Christ – Acts 4:26.

4. After whom is the church named? We must remember that the ecclesia is named after the one body, one bread, and we no longer regard ourselves as separate individuals but rather as a vital component of this entity, which is Christ – 1 Corinthians 10:17/12:12; 1 Peter 2:5. All the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called – Acts 15:17.

To whom do evil spirits surrender? Which name frightens them? Seeing Jesus, the devils cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? Art, thou come hither to torment us before the time – Matthew 8:29.

Jesus said, IN MY NAME shall they cast out devils – Mark 16:17. Is it referring to his authority? Authority is NOT power, and it is the power of the Spirit that believers receive when the Holy Ghost comes upon them. When Jesus said, “Behold, I give unto you POWER (exousia) to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy” (Luke 10:19), he was referring to the authority that comes from the Spirit, which is invoked through the name of Jesus Christ.

In general, “authority” and “power” are related concepts but have distinct meanings:

Authority: Refers to the right or permission to control, command, or make decisions. It is often associated with a position or role that gives someone the legitimacy to exercise control over others.

Power: Refers to the ability or capacity to influence or control the behaviour of others, often through force, coercion, persuasion, or other means. Power can be derived from various sources such as physical strength, wealth, knowledge, position, etc.

While authority is more focused on the legitimacy and right to control, power is more about the ability to influence or dominate others.

I want to use this example to show you how authority and power are different. Consider the United States and the United Nations, for example. United Nations is important for international cooperation and diplomacy, but it lacks the authority and power that the United States has on the world stage due to factors such as its economic strength, military capabilities, political influence, and cultural impact. The US can exert power through various means, including military force, economic sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and alliances.

So, can you release power without invoking the name of Jesus? A man of God stands in the authority of Christ; Peter had authority and he was aware of it, but did he just lift the lame man and say, walk? 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 3:6,7. He not only used his authority in Christ but also invoked the highly exalted name that brings terror to the wicked world. This name carries the message that every knee must bow, whether in heaven, on earth, or under the earth – Philippians 2:9-11.

By invoking the name of Jesus, the minister releases power and authority that would bring wholeness. It frees the captive soul from the darkness of death. The apostles of the lamb represented Christ’s authority but that wasn’t enough, and Jesus said, “Tarry until ye be endued with power from on high” – Luke 24:49. They had ‘the Exousia’ or the authority but only after the day of Pentecost did, they receive ‘the Dunamis’ or power to perform miracles and to change lives. This phenomenon of “virtue” flowing out from within the minister is seen in Luke 6:19/8:46 and Mark 5:30, and even the shadow of Peter bore that power in Acts 5:15. They had both “Exousia” and “Dunamis”, but the name of Jesus had to be exerted. One who received the ‘Exousia’ is eligible to receive the ‘Dunamis’ also. The only criterion is that one should be born of God to access this power. As many as received him, to them gave he, power (exousia) to become the sons of God – John 1:12.

Standing in God’s authority, wielding His power and anointing to cast out demons, heal the sick, raise the dead, and comfort the broken-hearted, we could accomplish these feats without invoking Christ’s name. Merely saying, ‘be made whole’ or ‘come out’ or ‘arise’ suffices. However, we often invoke Christ’s name to showcase God’s glory, allowing others to witness and marvel at the miracles performed through Christ’s authority and the power of His Spirit. This practice ensures that no glory is claimed for us, with all honour directed to God through His name.

Unlike us, Jesus could just command because he was the authority himself – John 5:8; Luke 5:8,23.

If so, in baptism, to whom and by which name should a believer conform for sins to be washed away? These are the answers that we must establish from the start.

The purpose and significance of baptism is to establish our union with Christ; and to conform to his death, burial and resurrection. This is foundational. If we don’t know what we’re doing, there’s no real substance to what we follow.

While “Tevilah” in Hebrew and “Baptisma” in Greek “βάπτισμα”—both involve immersion in water for spiritual purposes, they may not carry the same inner meaning due to differences in religious and cultural contexts. “Tevilah” in Judaism is associated with ritual purity and cleansing, while “Baptisma” in Christianity symbolizes purification, initiation, and identification with the faith.

“Tevilah” the Hebrew word refers to ritual immersion in a body of water, often for purification or spiritual cleansing purposes. It is commonly practiced in Judaism for various reasons, such as conversion, preparation for marriage, or after certain types of impurity.

Water Baptism is a Christian sacrament that symbolizes purification and the washing away of sins.

Be baptised, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16.
For the remission of sins – Acts 2:38.
That THROUGH HIS NAME whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins – Acts 10:43.
The remission of past sins – Romans 3:25.

The question can arise: If baptism is only symbolic, why do it? Will declining it impact our relationship with God? Can we still have a relationship with God if we refuse this rite? Allow me to respond to it with a query. Why is a wedding ceremony or nuptials necessary if the Bible considers a man and a woman to be one flesh due to their sexual union? 1 Corinthians 6:16 What completes the partnership? If a physical union is sufficient to complete a relationship, then what purpose do these rites serve?

Why is it necessary for a candidate for the presidency of a nation to take an oath of office?
Why must an individual go through a series of legal procedures and swear allegiance before being granted citizenship of a country?
Why is it important to take an oath or affirmation before assuming the responsibilities of an office, which is usually a position in the government or a religious organization?

Mere mortals don’t appreciate all these lawful conducts? And that is a fact. Who doesn’t want to migrate to a wealthy country and what stops people from entering freely to the zone they want to defect or emigrate? The law of a country stands in the way.

Many people don’t realize the importance of following legal norms and would choose to enter illegally. Who wouldn’t desire to relocate to a prosperous nation, and what hinders individuals from freely accessing the region they wish to leave or settle in? The country’s legislation serves as a barrier. One must adhere to the law of the land they wish to relocate to, whether they like it or not. Doesn’t it imply the existence of a universal, unseen force of law that was previously unknown in ancient times, except when under the rule of a monarch? Unlike today, one could easily sneak in or out of fortresses during that era – Acts 9:23-25.

Similarly, the kingdom of Christ also has its own set of laws that one must follow to enter, referred to as the doctrines of Christ. Water Baptism is one of the preliminary steps. 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 – Romans 6:17. To be translated into it, the first step is “to believe and be born of God”, and the second procedure is “be baptized” INTO Christ, which the water baptism represents for the remission of sins (that is to be born of water – John 3:5). In addition to physical birth, two distinct births are addressed here. One pertains to spiritual rebirth, and the other involves shedding the sinful nature and being made alive in Christ – Colossians 2:11-13. It is the induction ceremony into the person of Christ, and it is the Spirit of God that inducts the believing and obedient soul into the spiritual body of Christ. It is becoming a new creature in Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15; The transformation will be so profound that the individual’s past and present will appear incongruent. The change will be so extreme that the person, whose history no longer aligns with their current state, will be unrecognizable.

Few examples:

After God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power – Acts 10:38; and he knowing (eido) that he came from the Father and went back to Him – John 13:3; and went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him – Acts 10:38, seeing this the Jew murmured, ‘Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven? John 6:42.
The Jews answered him, saying, for a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, make thyself God – John 10:33. They could not identify Jesus as Christ and they said, ‘we know this man whence he is’ – John 7:27.
Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled, and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. And beholding the man, which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it – Acts 4:13,14.

People often question when someone undergoes a transformation, wondering how the person who was known to be someone’s son and had a certain identity is now displaying a unique persona. They often question the transformation when they know their background and history. They wonder how the person’s nature could have changed. They wonder how someone with a different nature can preach, prophesy, and heal others.

Can we avoid or bypass this process and not undergo the rite of baptism due to our dislike or aversion to it? Recognize this as a set standard set by the Master of the house for all who would approach him must adhere to – Matthew 3:14,15. Christ gave us a model that we should emulate – 1 Peter 2:21.

Unlike obtaining earthly citizenship, entering “the kingdom of Christ” is a spiritual journey that surpasses human understanding. It is the Spirit that guides all the processes. By having faith in God’s work and in the blood of Christ, one receives the inheritance of God’s kingdom – Colossians 2:12; 1 Corinthians 12:6; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 11:28; Revelation 1:5. The process is activated and sustained by the law of faith – Romans 3:27. Entering this kingdom without exercising faith, which the Lord credits/imputes, is impossible – Hebrews 11; 2 Peter 1:1; Hebrews 12:2; Galatians 3:23. And to obtain like precious faith – 2 Peter 1:1, one must be born of God – John 1:12-13/3:3,6,7; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 4:7/5:1,4

Understand that the world we inhabit is not just made up of ordinary humans, but also includes celestial beings, spiritual entities (both good and evil), rulers, authorities of darkness, and various other beings beyond our awareness – Colossians 1:16. The book of Daniel reveals that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men and assigns an angel to every ruler. And the removal of those angels leads to the demise of that realm or kingdom – Daniel 4:17,25,32; 10:13,20. Each nation has a spiritual ruler behind its leader. The great prince representing Israel Michael, ensures the nation’s security. However, when he leaves his position, trouble arises – Daniel 10:13, 21/12:1; Psalms 121:4.

The Bible explains the importance of acknowledging the presence of spiritual beings in our world –1 Corinthians 11:10; Hebrews 1:6,14/13:2. The physical is sustained by the spiritual. The spirit animates the physical body, and when it departs, the body decays. This spiritual influence extends to all living things and the surrounding matter and space. The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life – Job 33:4; the breath of our nostrils is the anointed (mashiyach) of the Lord – Lamentations 4:20. It is JESUS CHRIST, the Messiah who upholds all things by the word of His power – Hebrews 1:3. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, and he giveth to all life and breath, and all things – Acts 17:24,25.

The universe follows a code of conduct. Humans were once under heavenly order, but the fall allowed a wicked spiritual agency to influence the world, resulting in the proliferation of idols, temples, profanity, and various other forms of unrighteousness.

What entities govern this realm? Who is behind the temples and their rules? Wicked spirits and fallen angels empower temples and their ordinances, posing as gods and diverting the worship due unto God. The ordinances are enforced and anyone unwilling to obey will not be spared – Daniel 3.

Even regarding the crucifixion of the Son of God, it is said that the rulers of this world (archon – Chief rulers) did not know who they were crucifying: for if they had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory – 1 Corinthians 2:8. The Bible speaks of the prince of the power of the air, the spirit working in disobedient people – Ephesians 2:2; and it also states that the whole world is under the power/lap of wickedness – 1 John 5:19.

What is the message behind it all? Why did Jesus come? Was it just to redeem us from the power of sin? According to 1 John 3:8, the Son of God came to destroy the devil’s works and free man’s souls from the dominion of darkness. It’s a battle between light and darkness – Revelation 12:7,8.

Everything we do leaves a spiritual trail, as every deed is done according to an established doctrine. The outcome is determined by the doctrine we submit to, whether it be godly or evil precepts. Both kingdoms influence human souls, and a person’s choice of doctrine determines the outcome of their actions. Every action taken by a person is a result of spiritual influence. The book of James explains the opposing wisdom we are exposed to and its effects.

Therefore, even as believers we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that each may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad – 2 Corinthians 5:10.

Marriage is a concept established by God, much like all other civilised ideals. When a man and a woman get married and have their union officially recognised, it is considered credible. Conversely, acts such as fornication and lechery go against the teachings of the Bible. Before the spread of God’s word, many civilizations were considered primitive or uncivilized. The arrival of Christ and the dissemination of His teachings transformed the world.

Consequently, when carried out with a sincere heart, baptism is one of these virtues that offers its benefits when followed wholeheartedly. The act of baptism, when done with a pure heart, unlocks its beneficial qualities. A pure heart does not refer to the goodness of our hearts or a heart free of sinful nature, but rather an imputed virtue due to the presence of Christ within – Romans 4:6,11,22/5:17-19; James 2:23. In other words, Christ’s presence within us makes purity an imputed virtue rather than a reflection of our own goodness.

It shows the power at play. It is a testament to the forces at work. Can captives be freed without the knowledge of the kingdom’s ruler, Pharaoh or Satan, from whose power and hands we are rescued? The power dynamics are clear in this public ceremony. It serves as a public demonstration of a soul exchange. There is a trade happening, a slave being transferred from one master to another (from the hand of the Pharaoh to the Saviour of the world). By following this ritual, you declare your loyalty and surrender your ownership to the Lord and Christ Jesus. For you are bought with a price – 1 Corinthians 6:20/7:22,23.

Christ doesn’t need permission to save a soul or ask the devil to release a soul from his custody. Like Judge Samson, he goes through the enemy’s camp and annihilates everything on his path by the Spirit of God. That’s how He operates, like a tempest that spares nothing in its path. All (the Babylonian powers) that took them captives held them fast; they refused to let them go – Jeremiah 50:33; but our Redeemer is strong; the Lord of hosts is his name: he shall thoroughly plead their cause, that he may give rest to the land, and disquiet the inhabitants of Babylon – Jeremiah 50:34.

For the Lord your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regards not persons, nor taketh reward – Deuteronomy 10:17. He came to earth and took it by force – Matthew 11:12; he entered the strong man’s house, bound him and spoiled his house – Matthew 1:29; Mark 3:27; Luke 11:21,22. Jesus Christ blotted out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it – Colossians 2:14,15. Christ destroyed (katargeo – to render entirely idle/useless) him that had the power of death, that is, the devil – Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 1:18/ 12:10. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil – 1 John 3:8.

Water Baptism is your agreement to unite with Christ (in his death, burial, and resurrection), allowing the invisible forces of light to watch over you – Psalms 91:11; 1 Timothy 5:21; Hebrews 1:14/12:22/13:2; 1 Corinthians 11:10. It serves as your authorization and passport to your new identity and heavenly citizenship. Therefore, baptism now saves us in this respect.

Baptism is considered a doctrine of Christ in Christianity. It is a sacrament or ritual that symbolizes purification, INITIATION into the faith, and spiritual rebirth. Did not Jesus Christ give the command to his apostles to baptize others in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost?

Faith requires corresponding works to inherit the promised liberty and abundant life from Jesus by embracing the doctrine of Christ from the heart – Romans 6:17. Doctrines (principles) have the power to save us. The entrance of God’s words gives light – Psalm 119:130; we shall know the truth and the truth shall make us free – John 8:32; Colossians 3:16; When we act upon the implanted word, it frees our souls from Satan’s power and depravity. – James 1:21,22.

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this, thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee – 1 Timothy 4:16. You cannot contrive the godliness by mere faith; faith must drive us toward the doctrines which are according to godliness – 1 Timothy 6:3. Faith and obedience are like hand and glove. Without such works (corresponding action), faith is dead (νεκρός – nekros – lifeless) – James 2:18,20,26.

1 John 5:5-13 expresses the real gospel, the soul and substance of the New Testament, and the purpose of the sacraments. What it conveys is that everything in this dispensation must center around Jesus Christ, as it is the will of God the Father.

The purpose of baptism remains shrouded if we do not know into whom one must be baptized; it remains unclear without knowing who one must be baptized, into – Romans 6:3; Galatians 3:27. It is the saviour into whom one must be baptized – Psalms 77:20; Isaiah 63:12; 1 Corinthians 10:2. The prophets, kings, and priests of the Old Testament were seen as a prefiguration of the Messiah, through whom God delivered and preserved His people. So, they were all baptized unto Moses – 1 Corinthians 10:2. We conform to the person of Christ through baptism. By obeying the doctrine from the heart – Romans 6:17, the Spirit of God grafts us into the spiritual body of Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:12,13.

If one was baptized unto Moses, a figure of Christ – 1 Corinthians 10:2; when the antitype arrived, does it not suggest that one should be baptized INTO Christ for the forgiveness of sin, as Christ represents our righteousness and peace? It is a baptism (participation) INTO Christ – Galatians 3:27; Have you not realized that those of us who were baptized INTO Jesus Christ (sharing in the likeness of his death, burial, resurrection, and suffering) were baptized into His death? – Romans 6:3.

In the Corinthians church, they had a dispute over whose name one must be aligned to. Some said, I am of Paul; others, I of Apollos; and some I of Cephas; and some I of Christ. Apostle Paul intervened by the Spirit of Christ and made it clear who was crucified for them or in whose name they were baptized INTO – 1 Corinthians 6:11-13

In the Corinthian church, there was a dispute over which leader’s name to align with. Some said they followed Paul, others Apollos, some Cephas, and some Christ. Apostle Paul intervened by the Spirit of Christ and clarified who was crucified for them and in whose name, they were baptized – 1 Corinthians 6:11-13.

As far as we know, it was to the apostle Peter that Jesus Christ gave the “keys of the kingdom”. If the keys aren’t meant to be used to open something, what purpose does it serve? And Peter would know how and when to be used after the Holy Ghost comes upon them, who is the TEACHER according to the Messiah – John 14:26.

As far as we know, Jesus Christ gave the “keys of the kingdom” to the apostle Peter. If the keys aren’t meant for opening something, what purpose do they serve? Peter would understand how and when to use the keys after the Holy Ghost, who is the TEACHER as per the Messiah in John 14:26, comes upon them.

Jesus Christ gave the “keys of the kingdom” to the apostle Peter. The purpose of the keys is to open something, and Peter would know how and when to use them after the Holy Ghost comes upon them, who is the TEACHER who will GUIDE them into ALL TRUTH (aletheia) according to the Messiah – John 14:26/16:13.

The Greek word used for ‘TRUTH’ is “Aletheia” which means, Verity. And verity is the antonym of truth. This verity will make us free – John 8:32, but this is what many content with – 2 Timothy 3:8. Truth can be subject to change depending on one’s viewpoint, understanding, or circumstances, whereas verity denotes the recognized or intended truth. Verity is often employed to signify a more definitive or absolute truth.

In other words, while “truth” can vary and be subjective depending on perspectives or circumstances, “verity” is often used to denote an established or objective truth. Verity is associated with a sense of certainty and reliability, representing a truth that is considered to be universally true or established.

Verity is a term that refers to the quality or state of being true or accurate. It is often used in the context of knowledge, belief, or information. Verity represents the comprehension that leads to truth. You can interpret “Logos” as representing the concept of truth, especially in a philosophical or theological context where it signifies a principle of order and knowledge (through which God reveals His will, teachings, and truths to humanity).

On the other hand, “verity” can be seen as illuminated truth, suggesting a truth that is clear, established, and perhaps even spiritually or intellectually enlightened. This interpretation aligns with the idea that “verity” conveys a sense of certainty and reliability in representing truth.

It was the ‘logos’ that Jesus gave to his disciples, and he instructed them to tarry to receive the eternal Spirit who would GUIDE them into the whole truth, which is verity. He the Spirit will implant it in your mind, which is the establishment of the new covenant – Hebrews 8:10/10:16. And when the Spirit of truth (aletheia – verity) comes, He shall glorify Jesus: he shall not speak of himself; for he shall receive of Jesus, and shall shew it unto them – John 16:14.

Can we truly take the gospels at face value since most of Jesus’ words were in parables? Does it necessitate the Spirit of Christ to come and enlighten the eyes of our hearts (open the eyes of our understanding – Acts 26:18; Ephesians 1:18) to comprehend what was said? If what Jesus spoke was sufficient, why does the Spirit of God need to come to interpret things for us? Jesus brought the truth as he is the truth and cannot lie. What he spoke was the truth, but it came with its pod, so to speak and only the Spirit of Christ can decipher what the Lord intends; in other words, His words came with a deeper meaning that only the Spirit of Christ can explicate.

Jesus said, these things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time comes when I shall no longer speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father – John 16:25. When he, the Spirit of truth, is come (the day of Pentecost), he will guide you into all (whole) truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak – John 16:13. That day, all the parables and riddles spoken by Jesus became clear to the apostles. The Spirit of God enlightened their minds. The mystery of God, the Father, and Christ, which had been kept secret since the beginning of the world, was disclosed to the holy apostles for the first time following the descent of the Spirit – 1 Corinthians 2:7,10; Romans 16:25,26; Ephesians 3:4,9; Colossians 1:27/2:2/4:3. Until then the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest – Hebrews 9:8.

The Spirit of truth would be poured upon all flesh only after the resurrection of Christ. His glorification must precede the descent of the Spirit, without which it wouldn’t be possible. The obedience of Christ unto death paved the way for our justification unto life. And it is the descent of the Spirit upon us that brings this life, which Christ hath promised into reality – John 10:10. Without the Spirit of God, it wouldn’t be possible. For the Spirit must revive or quicken us before we can even spell Jesus. And it is the Spirit that bears witness because the Spirit is truth – 1 John 5:6.

Therefore, we cannot simply take a verse from the gospels and make a final judgment. The teachings that Jesus provided are explained in the epistles. This is where the practical truth is found. Otherwise, what did the sufferings of the holy apostles signify? They sacrificed their lives to reveal the engrafted word – James 1:21. “Engrafted word” (emphutos – implanted) or embedded word of God within a person’s heart or soul. It signifies the idea of internalizing and living out the teachings and principles of God’s word. It is a revelatory experiential knowledge that the Spirit of God imparts, which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God – Ephesians 3:3-5,10/5:32; Colossians 1:24-27/4:3; 1 Peter 1:12.

They possessed the truth, but their comprehension truly blossomed only after the day of Pentecost when they received the Holy Ghost. Jesus had instructed them to baptize IN THE NAME OF the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost—they had been given the truth, but it required the Holy Ghost to illuminate their understanding and grasp its full meaning. This is precisely what the apostles of the lamb followed.

They baptised all who believed IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, in whom the fulness of God dwells – Colossians 1:19/2:9; 1 John 5:20. While Jesus was on earth, the Holy Ghost was not yet been given to them – John 7:39; because the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest – Hebrews 9:8.

Truth is when we can say that it is true or false, the greater truth, the lesser truth. Verity is something that is unshakable. We want to attain it. Each degree toward attainment of verity can be called truth – Michael Laitman.

So, what did Peter do? On the day of Pentecost when they were filled with the Holy Ghost, Peter began unravelling things in the spirit.

To understand the context and the meaning of what is being said, it is vital to understand the prepositions within that language.

In Greek, “en” (ἐν) is commonly translated as “in” and is used to denote a state of being within something or to indicate a location or position.

On the other hand, “eis” (εἰς) is typically translated as “into” and is used to indicate movement towards a specific destination or goal. It implies a sense of direction or purposeful movement into something.

“en” (ἐν) and “eis” (εἰς) are indeed Greek prepositions that play a significant role in Greek grammar. They are used to indicate relationships between words, show location or direction, and contribute to the overall meaning of a sentence.

The Greek preposition “epi” (ἐπί) is commonly translated as “on,” “upon,” “over,” or “at.” It is used to indicate the location, direction, or the object of an action in various contexts.

Paul asked, UNTO (eis) what then were ye baptized? (Unto – “to” or “towards somebody or something – Archaic or Poetic: Up to; indicates a motion towards a thing and then stopping at it) Acts 19:3. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to all who believes – Romans 10:4.

There are two categories depicted. John’s Baptism, a baptism of repentance – Acts 19:3,4, and in the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 19:5; signifying putting on Christ. One for the Jews, during Christ’s earthly presence when the law was in effect; and the other, following Christ’s resurrection when the New Testament or the new and living way was revealed.

The criterion is to “believe wholeheartedly that Jesus Christ is the Son of God” – Acts 8:37; that he is both Lord and Christ – Acts 2:36; and the life of God is in His Son Jesus – 1 John 5:9-12. The person of Jesus Christ, the name of the Godhead, is the highly exalted name by which one must be saved and without invoking that name what purpose does baptism serve? Why would you not want or why one would be hesitant to invoke that name while administering this rite? That name alone brings terror to the dark world.

If you believe that only the Son is associated with the name of Jesus Christ and the Father has no part in it, then you are denying the truth that the Father and the Son are one, as stated by the Spirit of truth. The persons of the Godhead cannot be separated, as they are of one essence – 1 John 5:7; John 10:30/14:9/17:6; Isaiah 9:6

And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. – 1 John 5:8. What do they agree on? They agree on the record that God gave of His Son, and ye may believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life – 1 John 5:8-13. Just as the Godhead is united, the Spirit, water, and blood of Jesus also agree as one. Can we remove one of the three and expect everything to be, okay?

In 1 John 5:8 the Greek word used for ‘water’ is ‘hydor’ (it means, into the water to sanctify and cleanse with the washing of water as mentioned in Ephesians 5:26); it has a direct relation to water baptism’ as ‘hydatos’ (straightway coming up out of the water – Mark 1:10; Acts 8:39; 1 John 5:6); to mean, “be baptized and wash away thy sins (for the remission of sins) – Acts 2:38/22:16. The Spirit, water, and blood are said to agree as one, giving equal merit to the rite of baptism as the Spirit and the blood of Christ.

Hydor (ὕδωρ): This term refers to “water” in a general sense. It is the common Greek word for water and is used to describe water as a substance or element. For example, in scientific contexts or everyday language, “hydor” is used to denote water as a liquid or H2O.

Hydatos (ὑδάτος): This term is a genitive form of “hydor” and is used to indicate possession or association. It can be translated as “of water” or “from water.” The use of “hydatos” implies a relationship with water or an attribute related to water.

They were baptized in (eis – into) the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 8:16.
They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 19:5.
Peter commanded them to be baptized in (en – in) the name of the Lord – Acts 10:48.

Be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON (epikaleomai – invoking) the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16. The Greek word “epikaleomai” (ἐπικαλέομαι) translates to “to call upon,” “to invoke,” or “to appeal to.” It is often used in the context of CALLING UPON a higher power, deity, or authority for help, support, or guidance. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12; Therefore, the way to make amends with God is to use the name of the Lord.

For whosoever shall CALL UPON the name of the Lord shall be saved – Romans 10:13.
When Philip the apostle preached “the name of Jesus Christ”, they were baptized, both men and women – Acts 8:12.
Be baptized every one of you in (epi – “on,” “upon,” “over,” or “at) the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins – Acts 2:38.

Now let’s address the trinitarian formula, which the majority contend with. Jesus commanded, “Baptise them in the NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” – Matthew 28:19. When asked to type your father’s name in an application, would you enter the name or write “father”? “Son” is not a name, it refers to a male child, while “father” refers to a male parent. It’s that straightforward. The name of God is Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life – 1 John 5:20; Isaiah 9:6; Acts 2:39; Matthew 1:23; 1 Timothy 3:16. And that’s the one name, which is or strong tower into which we must run and be saved – Proverbs 18:10.

Attempting to assign various names to the Godhead results in dividing the three persons of the Triune God, creating a division within the Godhead, and portraying them as THREE instead of One: contradicting the portrayal of oneness in the Scriptures. The truth is that the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost are ONE – 1 John 5:7. Jesus took upon the Father’s name, they are of one essence. God highly exalted that name, so every knee should bow at Jesus’ name, in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. Every tongue should confess Jesus Christ is Lord, to (eis) the glory of God the Father – Philippians 2:10,11.

Jesus instructed the apostles to pray in the same manner, “Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be THY NAME.” Matthew 6:9; Luke 11:2 Which name did God hallow; which name did God highly exalt? When King Solomon built the House of God, what did the Lord say to him? “I have hallowed this house, which you have built, to put MY NAME there forever.” 1 Kings 9:3 Did Jesus not come and put his name there forever? The spiritual organism named after God is the house of God, called by the name of Christ. This is mentioned in 1 Corinthians 10:16,17/12:12; Amos 9:12; Acts 15:17; 1 Peter 2:5; and Hebrews 10:21.

Seeing the Son is akin to seeing the Father as well. I will elaborate on this as we delve deeper. His name is Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us – Matthew 1:23. Denying the name of Jesus Christ is denying the Father itself – Matthew 10:33.

Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? Ephesians 4:8-10 Who hath gathered the wind in his fists? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the ends of the earth? WHAT IS HIS NAME, and WHAT IS HIS SON’S NAME, if thou canst tell? – Proverbs 30:4. His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6. This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13. Which is why the Father pronounced, that at this dispensation all the fulness of the Godhead bodily dwells in Christ – Colossians 1:19/2:9. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet; then he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power; And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all – 1 Corinthians 15:24-28.

Let’s now examine what baptism represents.

& Is baptism salvific? If yes, how does it save?

The LIKE FIGURE whereunto even baptism doth also NOW SAVE US* (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer/ the response/ the reaction of a good conscience toward God – Having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience – Hebrews 10:22 – the blood of Christ purged our conscience from dead works TO SERVE the living God – Hebrews 9:14) *by the resurrection of Jesus Christ – 1 Peter 3:21.

“And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing” – Isaiah 10:27. Who was anointed by God? God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power – Acts 4:27/10:38. And Christ (the anointed one) is the one who sets the captives free. Anointing effectively relieves a sinner of their burden of sin, marking the initial step towards liberation (by the righteousness of one the FREE GIFT came upon all men unto justification of life – Romans 5:18; the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ – Romans 5:17; according to GOD’S MERCY, he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost – Titus 3:5; Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace – Luke 1:78).

The worshippers once purged should have no more conscience of sins – Hebrews 10:2. But in the Old Testament era, despite offering the blood of bulls and goats, sins were still remembered every year. Those sacrifices could not eliminate the burden of sin – Hebrews 10:2-4. We have come to Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant, and to his precious blood that speaks better things than Abel’s. The blood of Christ, a spotless lamb, purges even the vilest sinner’s conscience and removes every stain – Hebrews 12:24; 1 Peter 1:19.

The understanding that forgiveness is granted brings comfort to those with a cleansed conscience, allowing them to live a renewed life, sanctified for us, through the veil, which is His flesh – Romans 6:4; Hebrews 10:20. Unlike the bygone era, we can taste and see that the Lord is good – Psalms 34:8. It is experiential knowledge that a soul inherits. Christianity is a faith that can be felt with the heart and not merely a set of religious beliefs and doctrines to adhere to. It is entering into God’s rest – Hebrews 4:1-11. It is inheriting the peace of God – John 14:27; Romans 15:13; Philippians 4:7. It is Righteousness, Peace and Joy in the Holy Ghost – Romans 14:17. It is receiving power to become sons of God/ heirs of God – John 1:12; Romans 8:17; Titus 3:7; Galatians 3:29/4:7.

Put simply, a guilt-free conscience provides solace in the assurance of sins being absolved, accomplished through the resurrection of Christ. Baptism acknowledges the reception of a clear conscience towards God, corresponding to being justified by the blood of the lamb through faith – Colossians 2:12.

He that believeth and is baptised SHALL BE SAVED – Mark 16:16; Acts 18:8. “What was I saved from?” This does not refer to the complete process of Salvation, but rather an immediate redemptive activity by the Holy Spirit. Before one can walk in freedom and newness of life, they must be saved from whatever is holding them down. These are the rudiments of the doctrine of Christ to which we are guided to adhere – Hebrews 6:1,2.

“Believing and Baptism” seem to function together harmoniously, as if they are two sides of a coin. It suggests that receiving water baptism as mandated by God’s Word is necessary for salvation or to be rescued and initiated into the Kingdom of Christ.

Let’s not confuse “Justification of life” as a gift from God – Romans 5:18 – for those to whom precious faith is imputed – 2 Peter 1:1; Galatians 3:23; Hebrews 12:2, with the expected response from a revived soul, which are works fitting for repentance – Acts 26:20, also a result of grace working within the heart. The presence of Christ within a person through the Spirit enables all of these things to be possible. Grace and Truth come to reside within the heart of man – John 1:17; Galatians 6:18; Philemon 1:25; 2 Timothy 4:22, and that same anointing which is the truth, shall abide within – 1 John 2:27.

Through the rite of baptism, those justified by faith complete the process of regeneration by conforming to Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. It is the consummation of the betrothal to Christ – 2 Corinthians 11:2; Romans 7:4. You see the importance of this ritual. It is essential to conform to his death, to be united in the likeness of his death, so that we may attain his resurrection life – Philippians 3:10; Romans 6:5. It signifies the crucifixion of our old self with Christ, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin – Romans 6:5,6. For he that is dead with Christ is freed from the power of sin – Romans 6:4,8,7-11; Colossians 2:20/3:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:16. He hath passed from death unto life – John 5:24. The Holy Ghost seals those who obey these doctrines from the heart – Ephesians 1:13; Romans 6:17.

Faith must come before all of these actions – Galatians 3:23; 2 Peter 1:1. Faith must enter the heart before the sinner can ever consider Jesus as the Saviour of the world. The Father must draw a soul to Christ – John 6:44. This is what occurs to the soul whose heart is opened by the Lord to receive the gospel; God must grant repentance; the goodness of God must lead the soul to repentance – Acts 11:18/16:14; Romans 2:4. A doomed sinner cannot conjure up faith; Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of our faith, period – Hebrews 12:2.

While “justification of life” is a component of the process of redemption, “shall be saved” refers to a person’s instant release from the grasp of Sin, Death, the curse of the Law, Satan, Darkness, the evil world and the such, which were his adversaries. It refers to an immediate salvation process—that is, God’s redemptive act that liberates and ushers the soul into the kingdom of Christ. It comprises the quickening of the spirit, the reviving of the will, which was previously unable to react to God’s call (to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not)– Roman 7:18 – KJV.

Isn’t it true that man would be lost forever if God didn’t SAVE him? If so, wouldn’t that imply that humanity is in a completely devoid state from which he is unable to escape and that, barring God’s intervention and redemption, we are doomed to eternal damnation? Given this scenario, where does our theology of “free will” fit in? Can’t you see why Ancient Israel failed? The “free will” of man was lost in Adam, and although every man has a sphere of will, it is always inclined towards the flesh and influenced by Satan.

Does the Scripture align with my postulation? It says, we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others – Ephesians 2:3; we were sometimes alienated and enemies in our mind by wicked works (being a part of the wild olive tree – Romans 11:24), yet now hath he reconciled – Colossians 1:21. His reconciliation brought us the freedom not by our choosing God. God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us – Romans 5:8.

God, hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:18; when we were enemies, WE WERE RECONCILED TO GOD by the death of his Son – Romans 5:10. The Spirit of Truth says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain” – John 15:16. Where is the boasting, then?

Know ye, not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 2 Corinthians 13:5 (By what law? By the law of faith – Romans 3:27; Christ dwells in our hearts by faith – Ephesians 3:17 – and this faith does not originate in man but comes from God – Romans 10:17; Galatians 3:23; 2 Peter 1:1).
Every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour – 1 Thessalonians 4:4.

✝️ Baptism and Salvation Baptism is not merely a physical act of washing away dirt or our carnal disposition, but rather a spiritual response to God through a clear conscience, which is the effect of having faith in the blood of Christ – Romans 3:25; Revelation 1:5. It is a symbol of the believer’s faith in Christ’s death and resurrection, and their commitment to follow him; to walk in newness of life – Romans 6:4.
💧 Water as Symbolism In the context of 1 Peter 3:21, water is used as a symbol of baptism. It represents the cleansing and renewing power of God’s grace (remission of sins that are past/ blotting out of sins – Acts 2:38/3:19,25), which enables believers to live with a clear conscience before him. It is a sign of our disavowal of the present evil world and its authority (spiritual Egypt and its king Pharaoh); but it is also our credence upon the new and living way, which Christ hath consecrated for us to walk in – Hebrews 10:20. In simple terms, it is a pledge of allegiance to the Lordship of Christ. It is signing up with the adoption process into the family of God – Romans 8:15,23/9:4; Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:5. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers’ hearts are transformed, making all things possible.

Note: Justification unto life is through believing only; it is a gift that is bestowed upon a person who gets drawn by the heavenly Father; that are ordained to eternal life; whom the Father foreknew – Romans 5:18/8:29,30; John 6:44; Acts 13:48; Ephesians 1:5,11. The rites are the after-effect of your inward renewal. When they were pricked in their heart (the work of the Spirit in the heart precedes our obedience), and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? – Acts 2:37.

The like figure of what? What does the term “like figure” refer to? In the days of Noah, the ark was prepared, wherein a few, that is, eight souls were SAVED BY WATER – 1 Peter 3:20. “Water saves? Yes, it does.” It’s a figure of entering the ark of God, which is Christ. It saves us from what? Noah and his family were spared God’s wrath and kept safe when they entered the ark. It is the passing over of the angel of death. Seeing the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the Lord will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you – Exodus 12:23.

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be A PROPITIATION through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of past sins, through the forbearance of God (the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ satisfied divine justice and reconciled humanity with God); To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. – Romans 3:24-26; John 3:36.

That’s what “propitiation” does. Propitiation means “to appease someone’s anger” – Propitiation is the sole means to assuage God’s wrath against sin. And Christ becoming our propitiation – 1 John 2:2/4:10; Romans 3:25, we have peace with God – Romans 5:1. It not only delivered us from the wrath of God but also freed us from the current evil world, death, sin, law, and the power of darkness and Satan. Having blotted out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us through the death on the cross – Colossians 2:14, the obstacles being taken out of the way we can now follow his command and approach God as sons of God.

Water Baptism is a public statement made to/before the world of whom you are parting ways and is not a rite that is done in secrecy. Not only humans but the spiritual principalities and powers of darkness witness our spiritual transition and our decisions done in the name of Jesus Christ.

If the name of Jesus is not into which he or she is baptized, it is a mockery of the name that is hallowed by God. The person who administers this rite must shake in his boots as he is performing a rite which must be done in great fear and reverence.

If you are so into the trinity formula, it is alright to say “in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost”, but you must not conclude with that statement as the name above every other name, by which we must be saved, that is the name of Jesus Christ is not broadcasted without which the rite of baptism is incomplete and deficient.

Why are we reluctant to employ that one name? Because the devils tremble hearing that name and must leave the person; all the works of Satan will be disarmed in that person when the name of Jesus is uttered. The apostle Peter to whom the keys of the kingdom – Matthew 16:19 – were given commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord – Acts 8:16/10:48/ 19:5,17. “Be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON THE NAME of the Lord” – Acts 22:16. I cried to Jesus, “Save me, a sinner”, and He saved me. As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me – Psalm 55:16; call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee – Psalm 50:15. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him) – Romans 10:12,13.

Shouldn’t one call upon the name of the Lord Jesus to be saved? In every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord – 1 Corinthians 1:2. And we got washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, by the Spirit of our God, when we thus call upon that highly exalted name – 1 Corinthians 6:11.

Even the vagabond, exorcists from the Jewish fold knew what to do to expel demons, they took upon them to call over the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 19:13. Seeing how the apostles do, they perceived that invoking the name of Jesus Christ will get the job done. Though they failed at it, at least they realized that that is where the power lies. The name of the Lord is A STRONG TOWER: the righteous runs into it and is safe – Proverbs 18:10.

Some argue that the name means, the authority that we stand in. That is true when it comes to our lives and our coming together and our labour in the Lord. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered – 1 Corinthians 5:4. But “call upon” is not the same as our spiritual stance.

We give thanks for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ – Ephesians 5:20. Yes, when we preach or prophesy or when we do, we do it standing in the authority of Christ – James 5:10; 2 Timothy 2:19; but we preach Jesus Christ – Romans 16:25; Acts 4:10/5:42/8:5,12/9:20/10:36/17:3/15:19/16:25; 1 Corinthians 1:23/15:12,14; 2 Corinthians 1:19/ 4:5; Ephesians 3:8; Philippians 1:15,16,18.

The apostles commanded in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (this is the authority in that name) – 2 Thessalonians 3:6. We pray and anoint the sick in the name of the Lord – James 5:14. The authority is deployed when we use the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. I have yet to see how we can deploy the authority without using the name.

Don’t we always employ that name in our prayers? That whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all IN THE NAME of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him – Colossians 3:17. That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in us and we in him – 2 Thessalonians 1:12.

The Pledge of Allegiance is a patriotic vow of loyalty to the cause we willingly uphold; it is a choice to promise to support something we strongly believe in. It shows a serious commitment to the beliefs and values we stand for. It is a formal event that marks the official entry of an individual into a new position, organization, or group. It typically involves a ceremony or ritual to welcome and recognize the new member. An induction ceremony often signifies the beginning of a new employee’s journey within an organization. It provides an opportunity for the employee to be introduced to the company’s culture, values, and expectations.

Here in this context, the entry is by the imputed faith and we are translated into the kingdom of Christ – Colossians 1:13; we receive power to become the sons of God – John 1:12; chosen to be heirs of the kingdom – James 2:5; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ – Romans 8:17; called to be saints – 1 Corinthians 1:2; fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God – Ephesians 2:19; as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ – 1 Peter 2:5; fitly framed together, built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit – Ephesians 2:21,22.

It is a new covenant that we enter, with God through Christ; and that association or identification with Christ will set us free from the power of Satan and will translate us from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of Christ – Galatians 1:4. It is the process of getting cut out of the olive tree, which is wild by nature, and being grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree – Romans 11:24; it is the process of getting released from the power and curse of the law – Romans 7:4-6; Galatians 3:13 and be married to another – Romans 7:4. It is entering into a conjugal bond with the last Adam, who is the Lord from heaven – 1 Corinthians 15:45-49 or be betrothed to him according to the spirit – 2 Corinthians 11:2. He that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:17. It is the rite of joining unto Christ. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ – Galatians 3:27. It is the Spirit that baptizes us into this living organism, the Ecclesia of God, which is Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:12,13. See how crucial the rite of baptism then is.

Would Pharaoh have spared the Israelites had they not crossed the Red Sea? The crossing of the Red Sea not only brought separation between the kingdom of Pharaoh or put an end to the pursuit of the slave master and the people of Israel but also brought them under God’s pavilion through Moses, their Mediator between God and Men (a ruler and a deliverer), through whom the law would be administered – Galatians 3:19; Acts 7:35. Now Jesus having obtained a more excellent ministry, he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises – Hebrews 8:6/ 9:15/12:24, to whom we should we baptized unto.

What else does it do? It works toward the remittance of sins – Acts 2:38/22:16.

Baptism is thus a symbolic ritual that represents death, burial, and resurrection, with water representing a grave into which one is immersed, representing death and burial, and emerging from the water symbolizing resurrection. Submerging underwater represents you identifying with Jesus Christ’s death and burial, as well as the end of our natural selves (see Romans 6:3-6; Colossians 2:11,12). Simply put, by being immersed in water, you identify with Christ and are raised to life by the eternal Spirit. Ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God – Colossians 2:12. Ye are dead to sin but are alive unto God – Romans 6:2,11,13; 1 Peter 2:24.

Convicted by God’s Spirit, with conscience cleansed through faith in the blood – Hebrews 10:2,22, and the ‘will or volition’ renewed – Romans 7:18, one can transition from being a citizen of this world (under Satan’s dominion) to a citizen of heaven. By answering God’s call, they undergo baptism symbolizing identification with Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (refer to Romans 6:3-6; Colossians 2:12). This act signifies relinquishing their former status as a child of the devil for a new heavenly one, which is a child of God by new birth in the Spirit. The Spirit of God does all this in the blink of an eye when a soul is drawn to believe in Jesus Christ through whom the gift of salvation is offered.

In the Old Testament, they all passed through the sea; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea – 1 Corinthians 10:1,2; The Lord God led them by the right hand of Moses with his glorious arm – Isaiah 63:12. In like manner, in the New Testament, Jesus Christ being the antitype, who is the fulfilment or completion of the previous truth revealed in the Scriptures, God saves everyone who comes to Him through Christ. Like all other individuals or events in the Old Testament that act as types or shadows of Christ, Moses prefigured or foreshadowed Jesus Christ. Just like the blood sacrifice addressed atonement, it foreshadowed the coming of the lamb of God or prefigured the sacrifice of Christ, the salvation through Moses too foreshadowed the redemption through his antitype Jesus Christ.

Just like identifying with Moses was crucial, identifying with Christ is requisite to experience the redemptive work of God in the heart. At that time, the horse of Pharaoh went in with his chariots and with his horsemen into the sea – Exodus 15:19; God overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea – Psalm 136:15. This time, the power behind Pharaoh has been destroyed by Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection; having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it – Colossians 2:15. This time, not only did God through Christ destroy or disarm Satan but also condemned sin and redeemed us from the curse of the law having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances – Ephesians 2:15; Romans 6:6/8:3; Galatians 3:13; Hebrews 2:14.

Water Baptism is a requisite and without it, the work of salvation remains incomplete. “Believe and be baptized”; and “Repent and be baptized” were the phrases used by the first-century Church – Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38,41/8:12,36,37/18:8/19:3-6/ 22:16. Was it required to receive the Holy Ghost? It was not – Acts 8:16,17/ 9:18; 10:47/ 19:3-6;

Baptism then is a symbolical act, which signifies death, burial, and resurrection and water represents a grave into which one is immersed that portrays death, burial, and coming out of the water symbolizes resurrection. Submerging under the water symbolizes the death and burial of Jesus Christ, as well as the demise of our natural selves (see Romans 6:3–6; Colossians 2:12). In simple terms, by being dunked into the water you identify with Christ.

I’ve witnessed individuals who aren’t all that hesitant to affirm that Jesus is the Son of God turn antagonistic or exhibit other indicators of discord when the subject of water baptism is brought up. For what reason is that the case? That is a sign, don’t you think, that the devils within humans are aware of the consequences of following that rite? Water baptism unequivocally symbolizes our complete rejection of the kingdom of darkness and our unwavering commitment to, and our acceptance into the kingdom of Christ.

The apostle Paul questioned, “Was I crucified for you? Were you baptized in my name?” (1 Corinthians 1:12,13), emphasizing the importance of recognizing only one name. There is only one name that is GIVEN AMONG MEN, whereby we must be saved and that is the name of Jesus – Acts 4:12. That is the one name of God, which He hath highly exalted – Philippians 2:9.

And it has pleased the Father that in Christ should dwell all the fulness of the Godhead bodily – Colossians 1:19/2:9, which means, when you disregard the name of Christ you disown the divine Godhead itself. In addition to being a clear violation of the process of salvation, baptism in the trinitarian formula that omits the highly exalted name of God also fails to produce the desired effect. Only the spirit of the anti-Christ would desire to witness the deactivation of that name.

The saving power of God is vested in that single name. Would it be appropriate to simply mention the titles of God and ignore THE HIGHLY EXALTED NAME of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost when performing this ritual? ‘Highly exalt’ is ‘huperupsoo’– i.e., to elevate above others (verse 10; Romans 8:38; Ephesians 3:10/6:12; Colossians 1:16), i.e., raise to the highest position. It is important to recognize that the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost are one, despite being three – 1 John 5:7, and you are not renouncing the persons of the Godhead when employing the name of Christ; on the contrary, you are exalting the Godhead when you exalt the name of Christ. For that is the name of the one true God – 1 John 5:20 – John 5:43/10:25/ 12:28; Matthew 1:23; 1 John 5:20. And the command to us is: Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him – Colossians 3:17. But if ye refuse to identify with that name or refuse to honor that one name before people (that believing they might have life through his name – John 20:31); you are a double-crossing rat and a defector. After all, what is the New Testament and the grace of God, or the good news is apart from Christ? The name of Jesus Christ is the sum and substance of it all. Yes, Jesus did command “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them IN THE NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost” – Matthew 28:19; and we are not against that command; in fact, we fulfil it when we do it in that name, which is Jesus Christ.

Believing in the Lord Jesus Christ is believing in God – Acts 16:30-34.

Does the divine Godhead possess different names? Are the titles, “the Father, the Word, the Holy Ghost names? Tell me what the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost is. Is it not Jesus Christ in whom dwells the fulness of the Godhead bodily? He that hath seen Jesus hath seen the Father – John 14:9; for he is the exact representation of God – Hebrews 1:3; his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6. This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20. And that’s exactly what the apostles obeyed and preached and baptized believers into. As they were baptized UNTO MOSES (typifying Christ – Acts 7:35-39), here we get baptized INTO CHRIST – Galatians 3:27 And if one is not employing or invoking the name of Christ while administering this rite, who are we baptizing the soul into? It should be INTO a name and that one name is Jesus Christ. It is conforming or planting INTO the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ – Romans 6:4,5; Colossians 2:12.

Water baptism (watery grave) represents that: by the immersion act, we conform to Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection – Romans 6:3,4. The word “Baptism” is a transliteration of the Greek word baptizo, which means to immerse. In Hebrew, it is referred to as a MIKVEH – an immersion.

It’s the decisive moment, a public declaration to the spiritual rulers of the world, where you choose whose side you’re on. It’s a public renouncement of the past (public statement of repentance) and an acceptance of a new life in Christ. Believing is a divine work in the heart – Acts 13:48, but our enlivened will responds by obeying the command of our captain of salvation. It seals our fate and leads us to walk with the Spirit of Christ. This is the “narrow way” Jesus spoke of – Matthew 7:14.

This is where the king of Babylon stands in opposition. This is the parting of ways – Ezekiel 21:21. And that’s what we do by plunging ourselves into the medium of water to be planted with Christ in everything. It is a display of our choice. Joshua said, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve” His decision he made public, he said, as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord – Joshua 24:15. This crossing over stood as a testament to the “putting away of the gods which they served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; to serve the Lord – Joshua 24:14.

This is where the king of Babylon opposes. It marks the parting of ways – Ezekiel 21:21. By immersing ourselves in water, we symbolically unite with Christ in all things, displaying our choice. Joshua declared, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” He publicly announced his choice, stating, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” – Joshua 24:15. This crossing over testifies to putting away the gods they served in Egypt and on the other side of the flood, to serve the living God – Joshua 24:14.

Many find it easy to proclaim their belief but struggle when it comes to actually following through with the rite. This highlights the devil’s disdain for water baptism, placing this ritual at the forefront of entering life.

Julius Caesar was faced with an ordeal. Ordered by Pompei to disband his legions in Gaul, Caesar had to make a crucial decision. Should he lead his legions to Rome and seize power as Caesar? Or should he remain on the opposite bank of the river? Without hesitation, he spurred his horse into the river, sealing his fate, and forging ahead into history. Similarly, we too must confront our own choices and seal our fate with Christ, that we might enter into life.

What does it stand for:

💧 Water Baptism Symbolism Water baptism in the Bible represents the believer’s identification with Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It symbolizes the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ.
✝️ Baptism as a Testimony Water baptism is also a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ and a commitment to follow Him. It is an outward sign of an inward change that has taken place in the believer’s heart.
🕊️ New Life in Christ Coming up from the water of baptism symbolizes resurrection from the dead and the start of a new life in Christ. It signifies the disavowal of their past life (cutting off the cord of wickedness) and their union with Christ their redeemer.

Acts 10:44-48/19:1-5 – GENTILES BAPTIZED

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, (what for?) even so we also should walk in newness of life – Rom 6:4,5/ 12:1,2/Col 2:12 – it is imperative that ye be identified with Christ in everything – Rom 8:17,29/Phil 3:10/2Tim 2:12/ 2Cor 1:5,7/1Pet 4:1,2,12-14/Phil 1:29/ James 5:10 – Baptism then is crucial – as a man and woman living together without being married is unlawful – and only a ceremony makes it legitimate – so does the water baptism serves us – it authorizes a person in the body of Christ – 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 –1Pet 3:20,21/ Baptized unto Moses –1Cor 10:1,2/Acts 7:36-37/Rom 6:3/Gal 3:27– Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck – 1Tim 1:19 – He who believes and is baptized will be saved – Mark 16:16.

Prerequisite:

Here is water; what doth hinder me from being baptized? And Philip said if thou believe with all your heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God – Acts 8:36,37.

The effect of baptism:

And when they were COME UP OUT of the water, he went on his way rejoicing – Acts 8:39/16:34/Rom 14:17/15:13 – the Joy of the Holy Ghost is the upshot of being baptized (buried with Christ by baptism into his death and are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God – Rom 6:4/Col 2:12) – For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost – Rom 14:17 – for we’ve been delivered from the power of darkness, and been translated into the kingdom of God’s dear Son – Col 1:13 – the joy of the Holy Ghost must be there (an inevitable factor – it’s the sign of a genuinely converted soul); otherwise, it isn’t proper/complete.

Cleansing is the primary meaning of baptism in all religious groups that have practiced it; but when baptism is administered in the name of the Lord who died and rose for the blotting out of sins (Acts 3:19), this aspect of its significance is immeasurably strengthened” (Dr. Beasley-Murray, 1973, p. 103).

How fast should one comply?:

If possible, without much delay – Acts 8:34-38/Acts 16:30-33/22:16 – And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized – Acts 9:18; Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized – Acts 10:44-48. If you believe with your whole heart that Jesus Christ is the Son of God you must be baptized in water without further ado. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved – Mark 16:16.

Let me give you a few examples to validate my point.

Assume for the moment that someone fell into a deep ditch from which they could not emerge. When someone heard him calling for assistance, a ladder was set up and lowered to reach him. Would you rather that the individual use the ladder to climb up right away, or would you prefer that he wait a short bit longer so that you could explain the fundamentals of the ladder’s construction and operation?

It is clear that without Christ, souls are considered dead, but those who believe in him will be brought to life by the Spirit of God. This is the significance of water baptism, serving as a testimony of their new life. The minister is placing the corpse in a water tomb and burying it, and when it is raised from the water, it represents that soul’s resurrection through Christ Jesus.

Wouldn’t it be absurd to instruct the deceased spirit to return or linger until I educate and instil in you the wisdom of God, and once you are fully equipped, I will bury you and then resurrect you? The deceased should be revived promptly upon hearing the word of God and having faith. As soon as the dead hear the word of God and believe, they must immediately be resurrected to life. In the natural world, a corpse is interred promptly; in this context, when the soul realizes through the Spirit of God that they are dead and needs to be brought back to life by the resurrection power of Christ. This process must happen quickly to prevent decay and interference. Hence, I posit that this ritual should not be postponed or deferred.

Would you prioritize saving someone from the fire and securing them first, or would you attempt to instruct them while they are hindered by the fire and the building is on the verge of collapsing, potentially burying them?

Their understanding of the word is commendable, but it alone will not safeguard their soul. Without delay, those who believe should be baptized in water to protect their soul from the adversary.

“Believing and Baptism” are often seen as interconnected and represent a common objective in Christianity – Mark 16:16; Acts 2:41/8:12,35-38/9:18/16:14,15,30-34/18:8/19:4,5/22:16. “Believing” refers to having faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Saviour, which is essential for salvation. “Baptism” is a public declaration of one’s faith and commitment to Christ, symbolizing spiritual rebirth and initiation into the Christian community.

Baptism followed the confession of faith immediately, without delay. Does it serve any purpose if delayed? It serves no purpose. Delay only provides an opportunity for the devil to sabotage the plan of conforming to Christ. Delay can lead to distractions and hinder a person’s decision from being fulfilled. A delay may cause diversions, which could prevent someone from following through on their decision. Wouldn’t it be better to be sealed with the holy Spirit of promise sooner? Ephesians 1:12,13

This was the way the Holy Ghost guided the holy apostles to do, and it was also the way the first-century church operated. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine – Acts 2:42. We claim to uphold the apostles’ creed today, and we’ll even put a nicely laminated copy of it on our tables or walls. However, our actions tell a different tale.

There are numerous examples in the Bible, but let’s examine one particular incident. This event occurred when Paul and Silas were imprisoned. You can refer to the chapter for a full understanding, but let me get straight to the point. The ‘keeper of the prison’ asked, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spoke unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house – Acts 16:30-34.

Four occurrences in his life I would like to draw your attention to.

They said, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.
They spoke unto him and to all that were in his house the word of the Lord.
He and his household were baptized straightway (at the same hour of the night).
They rejoiced, believing in God.

This was a crucial moment when the Holy Spirit was convicting his heart, and it might be the only opportunity to persuade him. Pour the dough when the pan is hot. Terrified for his life and desperate for salvation, the only one who could rescue him from his situation was to follow their instruction. And what effect did it have? Was there a beneficial outcome following the baptism? He and his entire family were enveloped in the protection and guidance of the Holy Ghost. They found shelter under the shielding power of Christ’s blood.

And now why tarries thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16.

One must call upon that name for salvation and forgiveness of sins. It is not simply a matter of authority but a necessity.

Saved by water?

Saved by water –1Pet 3:20/1Cor 10:1-3 – Saved from what? Remission of past sins/ Washing away of sins – Acts 2:38/ 22:16; Rom 3:25; Hebrews 9:15/ they (the Israelites) had to be baptized unto Moses in the cloud and the sea –1Cor 10:1-3/ eight souls were saved by water –1Pet 3:20 – to walk in newness of life/liberty – where the oppressive/lethal elements like Satan, Sin, the present evil world, the curse of the law and death could no more hold them captive; that we might live unto God – Galatians 2:19. See how crucial the water baptism is! Even baptism doth also now save us –1Pet 3:20,21.

There is a catch: with the baptism, we must teach them to observe all things whatsoever Jesus hath commanded – Matt 28:20. Elect through sanctification of the Spirit, UNTO OBEDIENCE –1Pet 1:2 – Obedience unto righteousness – Rom 6:16; Bring forth fruits worthy of repentance – Luke 3:8; Obey from the heart that form of doctrine/standard of teaching (that has now claimed your allegiance -NLT) – Rom 6:17; the obedience of faith – Rom 16:26.

Just as regimes and political parties have their principles that supporters must adhere to, the kingdom of Christ also has its principles that disciples must follow to prove themselves true followers and receive the benefits. Jesus said, if ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed – John 8:31. Violating its creed is blaspheming its authority, and in our case, it is blaspheming against the Holy Ghost, who established it. Disobedience is akin to forsaking or abandoning the faith, the right way.

For those who contend that the Trinity-related text in Matthew 28:19 was inserted at a later time, I give the following perspective. In my view, Christianity is more than just an organization; it is a living entity guided, indwelt, and animated by the Spirit of God. The head of this assembly is the Lord Jesus Christ, who is Almighty and does not require human approval to fulfil His purpose.

The Gutenberg Bible, printed by Johannes Gutenberg in Mainz, Germany around 1455, was a significant milestone in printing history and Bible dissemination, making the text more accessible. The compilation of the Bible spanned many centuries, with the Old Testament written over about 1000 years and the New Testament over a shorter period, from approximately 50 AD to 150 AD. This process was not without sacrifice, as the blood of millions of faithful adherents was shed to bring this work to fruition, and millions upon millions were raised to life by this incorruptible seed of the word of God. The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, first published in 1611, involved 47 scholars translating different portions diligently over several years, influencing English literature and remaining widely read for over 400 years. The enduring legacy of the KJV speaks to its literary beauty and historical impact. It is a testament to the work of the Holy Ghost that enabled multitudes of saints to preach from it for centuries. The debate over the Trinity and the name of God embedded in Christ, while important, should not be used to bring confusion or discredit to the word of God. We must approach these discussions with clarity and understanding, recognizing and appreciating the work of the Holy Ghost throughout history.

When someone points out inconsistencies in the Bible or suggests it is flawed, abridged, or altered, it should be a warning to the body of Christ. It could be an attempt by the enemy to distort and discredit the word of God. Regardless of the claim’s validity, since the Holy Ghost has not addressed it, we should not let it confuse believers or give the enemy satisfaction.

We must ask, “Is the Holy Ghost, the all-knowing Creator, the Omniscient author and preserver of it unaware of such a serious matter?” Why would the Spirit of God allow such an error to be included in the New Testament, causing confusion and division? Does this mean that His supervision and inspiration, as mentioned in 2 Timothy 3:16, failed to accurately convey the word of God in human language? Doesn’t this imply a failure on the part of the Spirit of God? Could this be seen as a subtle denial of His omniscience and an acknowledgment of the Holy Ghost’s limitations? Questioning His omniscience is considered blasphemy, which is an unpardonable sin – Matthew 12:31; Mark 3:29; Luke 12:10. If there were inconsistencies as we have highlighted, particularly in the concept of the Trinity, why did the Spirit of God remain silent for the past 400 years? His silence indicated approval of a finalized canon and its truthfulness. We must acknowledge our failure to interpret the text rather than discredit God’s logos.

In this discussion, I aim to address both sides of the argument, to clarify and bring closure to the debate. I will show that the Trinity and the one name of God given in this present dispensation for salvation, as well as their application, are correct. Many people misunderstand because they either don’t understand the actual meaning of it or make the grave error of interpreting a Bible verse in isolation. It is imperative to understand the dispensations and their distinctions to align and harmonize the text. Failure to do so results in texts being removed from their context and used in isolation, leading to confusion and misunderstanding.

Here is a summary of the literature and statements regarding the potential later addition of Matthew 28:19:

Wycliffe Bible Commentary (Pfeiffer): The Trinitarian baptismal formula may not be the exact words of Jesus but a later liturgical addition.

Papias, an early Christian author in 100 A.D stated: "Matthew wrote the words in the Hebrew dialect, and each one interpreted as he could" in Eusebius Ecclesiastical History 3.39.

Jamieson, Fausset, Brown Commentary: Matthew was originally written in Hebrew, but more correctly Aramaic, or Syro-Chaldaic, the native tongue of the country at the time of our Lord; and that the Greek Matthew we now possess is a translation of that work, either by the Evangelist himself or some unknown hand.

Bible Knowledge Commentary (Walvoord): Matthew wrote in Aramaic and translations followed in Greek: Papias (80-155 AD), Irenaeus (130-202 AD), Origen (185-254 AD), Eusebius (4th century AD) and Jerome (6th century AD)

New Bible Commentary (Carson): Early Christian tradition held the view that Matthew was originally written in Hebrew or Aramaic, not in Greek.

Origen (185 AD): Matthew was the first to write and he composed and issued a Gospel in Hebrew for the Jewish believers. R.C.H Lenski, Gospel of Matthew, p 11-19

Pentanes (180 AD): he claims to have seen a Hebrew Gospel by Matthew in southern Arabia, which was brought there by Bartholomew. R.C.H Lenski, Gospel of Matthew, p 11-19

Caney’s Encyclopaedia of Religions (1970), Pg 53: The early church baptized persons ‘in the name of Jesus Christ’ or ‘in the name of the Lord Jesus’ until the development of the Trinity Doctrine in the Second Century. 

Britannica Encyclopaedia – 11th EDITION, VOL 3, PG 365-366: The baptismal formula was changed from the name of Jesus Christ to the words Father, Son, & Holy Ghost by the Catholic Church in the second century. 

Catholic Encyclopaedia – Vol 2, Pg 263: The Catholic Church changed baptism from the name of Jesus Christ to the Trinitarian formula. 

A History of the Christian Church (Williston Walker) (1947), PG 58: The Trinitarian baptismal formula displaced the older baptism in the name of Christ. 

Tyndale New Testament Commentaries I, 275: The Trinitarian baptismal formula may not be the exact words of Jesus but a later liturgical addition. 

Catholic University of America Study 1923: The earliest form of baptism was in the name of the Lord Jesus. 

James Moffatt's New Testament Translation: The Trinitarian formula may be a reflection of later Catholic liturgical usage, with the original baptism being in the name of Jesus. 

Acts of Paul and Thecla (2^nd Century - A.N.F., VIII, p. 490): Records an account of baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ. 

Recognition of Clement (Recognition 1:39): “Jesus instituted baptism by water amongst them, in which they might be absolved of all their sins upon the invocation of his Name”

Eusebius (A.D. 264-340): In his early citations, he renders Matthew 28:19 as "Go ye and make disciples of all the nations IN MY NAME," only altering this after the Council of Nicaea. 

New Catholic Encyclopaedia (MCGRAW-HILL, 1967, P. 59): An explicit reference to the Trinitarian formula of Baptism cannot be found in the first century, and the Trinitarian formula was unheard of for at least 100 years. 

Encyclopaedia Biblica: Early disciples generally baptized in the name of Jesus Christ or the Lord Jesus.

These sources and statements suggest that there is some historical and textual debate surrounding the Trinitarian baptismal formula found in Matthew 28:19, with some scholars and sources indicating that it may have been a later addition or development in Christian practice.

Let’s attempt to clarify this verse. In Matt 28:19 – Jesus after the resurrection from the dead, commissioned the disciples to go and teach all nations, baptizing them IN THE NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost. But not one time do we see the disciples of Christ performing the rite of baptism in the “titles” of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost as many of us do now – Acts 2:38/8:16/10:48/19:5. Why such stark contradiction? For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints! 1Cor 14:33.

This is the contention: they say that Matthew 28:19 did not begin to say the titles “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost” until the Roman Council of Nicaea in 325 AD (when the Roman Catholic Church was born). The Roman Catholic Church REMOVED the name of Jesus from Matthew 28:19 and replaced it with titles, depriving water baptism of the sole name given among mankind under heaven through which we must be saved! If this is true, it is downright nefarious and supremely devilish. However, given that the epistle of Paul introduces the concept of the “Triune Godhead” by mentioning three entities in unity – the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one – 1 John 5:7; can we consider the doctrine of the trinity as false? But if both texts are correct, how can we merge them into one cohesive and powerful text?

According to history, the Early Church father, Eusebius, authored various papers in the late third and early fourth centuries – around 290-339 AD. This renowned church historian used a different translation of Matthew 28:19 in his writings (he paraphrased – “Go and make disciples of all the nations IN MY NAME”).

That is why, for the remission of sins, we should baptize in the NAME of Jesus Christ, which is the highly exalted name by which we must be saved, and that’s exactly what Jesus meant when he commanded in Matthew 28:19 to baptize them IN THE NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Jerusalem – Acts 2:38 – be baptized in the name of Jesus.
Samaria – Acts 8:12,16 – baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Caesarea – Acts 10:48 – baptized in the name of the Lord.
Ephesus – Acts 19:5 – baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Ethiopia – Acts 8:16,38 – believe with all thy heart/ believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; hearing the confession of the mouth both went down into the water and Philip baptized the eunuch.
Damascus – Acts 22:16/15:17 – calling on the name of the Lord.
Corinth – 1 Cor 1:13 – baptized in the name.
Rome – Rom 6:3 – baptized into Christ.
Galatia – Gal 3:27 – baptized into Christ.
Colossae – Col 2:12 – buried with Christ in baptism. I comprehend the directive Jesus provided for baptism in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. I wish to clarify that I am not disregarding Matthew 28, I recognize the passage, nor am I diminishing the significance of being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. It is evident to me now that baptizing individuals should be carried out in the name of Jesus, and that Matthew 28 was not a mistake but the truth, which the early church adhered to. It is our understanding that requires adjustment, not the deletion of the text. Only the truth of the text (verity) would fulfill its meaning. This necessitated the use of the ‘keys of the kingdom’ bestowed upon Peter by the Lord – Matthew 16:19. Peter was able to utilize them only after the Holy Ghost had descended upon him with power on the day of Pentecost – Acts 2. Jesus said, when He, the Spirit of truth (aletheia – verity), is come, HE WILL GUIDE YOU into all (the whole) truth – John 16:13.

I’m still baffled as to why gospel ministers still struggle with this. Not a single passage provides evidence to the contrary. Scripture makes this quite plain. At the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established. Apostles Peter, Paul, and Phillip – these were the men through whom God had founded these churches. Peter’s formula was “in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 2:38; 10:48), Phillip’s was in the Name of the Lord Jesus (8:16). And the one Paul used was the same (Acts 19:5).

By doing so, they were not disregarding the command of the Lord to baptize people in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; instead, when the Spirit of God came upon them on the day of Pentecost, when the way into the holiest of all was made manifest – Hebrews 9:8; they understood the true meaning of what the Lord had commanded. They acknowledged the command given in Matthew 28 and baptized individuals in the one name of God provided in this era for redemption.

In what authority do we digress from this established course? And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine (Acts 2:42); but are we? Peter’s demand that everyone be baptized IN THE NAME of Jesus was in direct response to Jesus’ order in Luke 24:47, where he said, that repentance and remission of sins should be preached IN HIS NAME among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Until the day in which he was taken up, after that, he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen – Acts 1:2.

Later in his sermon, Peter declared by divine revelation: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord (“Kyrios,” which is the Greek term used in the New Testament for Jehovah) and Christ” – Acts 2:36. Please note that up until Acts 1 (the day of Pentecost) the Holy Ghost was not yet been given – for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified – John 7:39. After that the Holy Ghost had come upon them, it took them to another level. Peter stood boldly and revealed Jesus as Lord and Chris; he was announcing that Jesus is both Jehovah and Messiah the same person! For in Christ now dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily – Col 2:9 – For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell (Col 1:19). Yes, God did glorify Jesus of Nazareth – John 12:23/17:5; but only by the coming of the Spirit of God (the promise of the Father, which is the Baptism of the Holy Ghost/ the enduement of power from on high – Acts 1:4; Luke 24:49) did Jesus was glorified in His saints – John 16:13/17:10; 2 Thessalonians 1:10.

Jesus said unto them, these things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. At that day ye shall ask IN MY NAME: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you. For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God – John 16:25-27. Jesus in the days of his flesh was praying for them in their stead but he wanted them to have direct contact with the Father as he maintained. And only after receiving the Spirit of God are we able to call God, our Father. Now we can come boldly to God – Hebrews 4:16/11:6; Galatians 4:6.

Jesus, during his time on earth, prayed for them on their behalf, but his ultimate desire was that they would come to know God personally and have a direct connection with the Father just as he did. It is only through receiving the Spirit of God that we can address God as our Father. We can now confidently approach God. Have you noticed the transformation in the apostles’ comprehension and stature? By the reception of the Spirit of God, the inept, fragile, fearful disciples became like their master. Jesus said the disciple is not above his master: but everyone, that is perfect (made perfect – Hebrews 5:9/7:19; 2 Corinthians 12:9) shall be as his master – Luke 6:40. And the breath came into them (a rushing mighty wind – Acts 2:2; there was a noise, and behold a shaking – Ezekiel 37:7), and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army – Ezekiel 37:10. Their spirits were made perfect by the descent of the Spirit upon them – Hebrews 12:23, and they turned the world upside down. This parable spoke Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spoke unto them – John 10:6. These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified (when he breathed on them and said, receive ye the Holy Ghost – John 20:22), then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him – John 12:16. When they became men (their understanding matured – after they were illuminated – Hebrews 10:32), they put away childish things – 1 Corinthians 13:11.

Ask yourself, whom do you want to conform to? He that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit – 1 Cor 6:17. How are we made conformable unto his death or planted together in the likeness of his death? Through Baptism – Philippians 3:10; Romans 6:5. The Old Testament people were baptized unto Moses (a type – a copy or shadow) in the cloud and the sea – 1Cor 10:2. In The New Testament, we are baptized unto Christ (the anti-type – the reality).

Can you at least glean something from the words of apostle Paul in I Corinthians 1:13: ‘Was Paul crucified for you, or were ye baptized in the Name of Paul? Why was he even alluding to this in the first place?

Since the beginning, God kept the revelation of His Son Jesus a mystery, which was revealed to us through his holy apostles and prophets. Since the dawn of days, everything pointed or worked toward the coming of the Messiah. God had kept that one name hidden for eons, by which He would bring redemption.

The Old Testament saints perceived something was going on and many tried to understand it but couldn’t. The Lord who spoke unto them was terrible in majesty and could not be felt and seen by the humans as He is a Spirit infinite in power, a mighty God and terrible – Deuteronomy 7:21; with God is terrible majesty – Job 37:22.

Israel of God could not endure the voice of the living God, as it terrified them, and felt that they would die every time they heard God speak – Deuteronomy 5:24-27. So terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake – Hebrews 12:21. This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spoke to him in the mount Sinai, and with our fathers – Acts 7:38.

This time, He (the Word of God, the sinless one, the Spirit of truth – 2 Corinthians 3:17; Revelation 19:13) assumed (took upon) the sinful flesh of man to engage with and advocate for mankind while defending and mediating his cause – Romans 8:3; Hebrews 2:14,18/4:15. As He took upon the form of man, that form of man is called the Son of God or the Son of man, whose name is Jesus Christ. And this dispensation is cantered upon this one name that whatsoever we do in word or deed, we must do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him – Colossians 3:17.

Failing to exalt/magnify the name of Jesus Christ disqualifies us from inheriting everything the Lord has qualified us to inherit through his blood. The Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost are one – 1 John 5:7; they are not separate entities, and the name of the Godhead is Jesus Christ. For in Christ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily—this is the witness of God the Father – Colossians 1:19/2:9; 1 John 5:9-13. If so, it is the name of Jesus that one should call upon for the salvation of His or her soul and be baptized into.

Calling on that one highly exalted name is calling addressing the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. But if you only focus on the trinity formula and neglect to mention the name of God, who is Jesus Christ, it is a denial of the Godhead. Simply put, addressing the trinity formula without invoking God’s name, Jesus Christ is a denial of the Godhead itself. This is the true God and eternal life; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13; 1 John 5:20.

Why do we hesitate to exalt the name of God, which is Jesus Christ? Let me clarify, not Yahweh God as He was known in the past, but Jesus Christ is the new and living way that God wants us to call upon and be saved. That is His name. Lifting that name alone brings glory to God, destroys the works of the enemy, and saves a soul. To free a soul from Satan’s grasp, exalt only that name and dunk a soul into that name.

To receive the grace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, a person must be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. 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 2:38. The Spirit of God discloses this revelation throughout the whole epistles in a straightforward way and I wonder why we are so hesitant, recalcitrant or obstinate?

The church is in its current state of lukewarmness because it has forsaken its first love, Jesus Christ. Unless the church repents and returns to her first love, which is Jesus Christ, she will not see the return of the Holy Ghost in power, which she longs for. The Spirit of God falls when the Church esteems the name of Jesus Christ. To satisfy your stance following certain traditions you could christen a soul by reciting “IN THE NAME OF the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost” yet refuse to invoke the name to which a soul must be planted or conform to.

What do you not understand about the phrase “in the name of“?

When something is done “in the name of” a person or entity, it typically means using that name to access the authority, power, or benefits associated with it. By invoking the name, one acknowledges the authority and aims to align themselves with the values, principles, or benefits represented by that name. It can indicate a connection, representation, or authorization when carrying out an action or pursuing a specific outcome.

Carrying out an action “in the name of” someone or something usually means acting on their behalf, with their authority, approval, or in line with their desires. It suggests that the action is being done with the support or approval of the person or entity mentioned. This expression is commonly used to indicate authorization, representation, or commitment to a cause or goal.

Those who are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, who is the Lord (kurios) and Christ (Christos) – Acts 2:36; they shall receive power (exousia – delegated influence: — authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength) to become sons of God – John 1:12. Keep in mind the rule of thumb: “believing and baptism” are inextricable. They work in tandem, and they work together to accomplish a common goal.

Baptism is the result of the gift of faith in the heart and should not be viewed as just a ceremony. The faith, received through hearing the word of God, should lead a person to align themselves with Christ – Acts 2:37,38. It is a personal belief that motivates a person to dedicate themselves to Him, not a formal practice to join a religious group.

I have seen many people attend church without true conviction, simply to access church services such as marriage and burial, which are typically reserved for baptized members and regular attendees, this is sacrilege.

Even if we ought to validate this verse, “Baptizing them IN THE NAME”– the Singular usage points us to one name: we see three tiles of God being used here rather than three names of God. We must not forget the fact that The Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost are not the names of three Gods but tiles of the one true God – 1Tim 2:5/ John 4:24. The original text reads: baptizing into “the name of Jesus Christ” or the Lord Jesus – which is exactly what the Apostles of the Lamb and the first-century assembly of believers practiced and followed. Otherwise, employing just Matthew 28:19 will not only bring confusion but also force many to choose the other extreme of rejecting the pattern that the Apostles had furnished. Had Jesus commanded his disciples to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, then why didn’t the Apostles follow that pattern, and also why there is not one single supporting verse? They did follow that command, did they not?

Some may consider bringing the Didache into the discussion to support their position. Didache 7 (The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles) has been proven to be an interpolation written in the late third century. The main evidence for the late dating of chapter 7 includes linguistic analysis, which suggests that the style and vocabulary are more similar to third-century Christian writings than to earlier texts. However, if you take into account the validity of Chapter 7 of the Didache, you may find yourself in a dilemma; for it also says, that if you do not have access to living water to immerse a person, pour out water three times upon the head into the name of Father and Son and Holy Spirit.” “Into the name” is still the requisite medium for immersion, but would you consider this form of baptism, which was unknown in the first century?

The ‘Trinitarian formula’ is something that Catholics, Baptists, Academicians, and Historians all agree on – in fact, it’s no longer a subject of contention among the most serious New Testament experts!

If we literally implement the idea from Matthew 28:19, shouldn’t we also apply the prayer modality that the Lord taught the apostles? But, since that prayer was specific and related to a specific event that was to occur shortly after Jesus rose from the dead, what is the point of continuing to ask for something that has already been answered? The coming of the Spirit transformed our entire persona so that our prayer language is no longer limited to a specific fashion, but as believers, we are constantly in a spirit of prayer – “pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17; and we now pray in the Spirit – Ephesians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Romans 8:26.

In Christ it’s fulfilled – Matthew 6:9-13.

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name (He hallowed his name– John 12:28; Philippians 2:9).
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven (His kingdom had come and His will was done, for which the Son of God came to do– John 5:30/Heb 10:9/Luke 11:20/Rom 14:17).
Give us this day our daily bread (John 6:50,51). He gave us the engrafted word (the word of Christ enriches us – Col 3:16; James 1:21; John 6:27), the spiritual meat that satisfies our hunger.
And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors (Grace is God’s goodness aimed at human debt and depravity. God imputes merit where none previously existed and proclaims no debt where one previously existed, all via His mercy. A tremendous debt that we will never be able to repay. Our debt is paid via redemption. The debt and penalty of our sins; for Jesus Christ has become our Ransom. He hath ransomed us from death, the grave, from the power of sin, from the evil world, that we might live unto God and become the righteousness of God in Christ. By shedding his blood he redeemed us– 1Pet 1:18,19/Eph 1:7).
“Finished!” Jesus exclaimed just before he died. Jesus didn’t just say that his suffering was over. In its original tongue, the word meant “to close out an account”: “Cancelled,” “Paid in Full,” “Nothing left to Pay”—”Finished!” Jesus paid the entire debt of sin.
And lead us not into temptation (peirasmos), but deliver us from evil (Christ spoiled principalities and powers/destroyed him that had the power of death, that is, the devil – Col 2:15/Heb 2:14– He destroyed the works of the devil and delivered us from sin, death, saved us from this present evil world and from the power of darkness – Col 2:15/Heb 2:17,18/2Pet 2:9/James 1:12/ Luke 11:4/1John 3:8/5:18/Gal 1:4/Col 1:13).

As opposed to ‘peirazo’, which refers to physical temptations – Hebrews 2:18/4:15; Matthew 4:1, Jesus advised them to pray to the Father to lead them not into ‘peirasmos’, which is trials or tests of faith (which is trial of faith or trying of faith – Abraham and Joseph and others were tested – Hebrews 11:17; Psalms 105:19; Deuteronomy 8:2,3); but deliver us from evil (poneros – calamity, hand of the wicked). There is a connection between “dokimion” (δοκίμιον) and “peirasmos” (πειρασμός) in Greek: Both “Dokimion” given in 1 Peter 1:7/4:12; James 1:3 means “testing” or “trial.”

There is a difference between these two Greek words:

– “Peirazo” (πειράζω) is a verb that means “to test” or “to tempt.” Means – God.

– “Peirasmos” (πειρασμός) is a noun that means “trial” or “temptation.” Means – Fleshly, Humans, the World, and the Devil.

In summary, “peirazo” is the action of testing or tempting, while “peirasmos” refers to the trial or temptation itself.

Therefore, when Jesus instructed them to pray to the Father in facing the temptation (lead us not into ‘Peirasmos’), he was alluding to the impending great trial or test, which is described as follows: “I will turn my hand upon the little ones; I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered” (Zechariah 13:7-9; Mark 14:27).

In Zechariah 13, the final three verses discuss the aftermath following the cutting off of the Messiah, along with the Jewish expulsion from Jerusalem, the AD 70 massacre, and the subsequent destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple.

The first-century church was expecting the fulfilment of Jesus’ prophecy about the impending destruction. He had warned them, “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso reads, let him understand:)” Matthew 24:15-20.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. Now is come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God, day, and night – Revelation 12:10.

I find it necessary to emphasize this: If they were baptized unto Moses – 1Cor 10:2, and the comparison is made with Moses who was a servant and Christ a Son in Hebrews 3:5 – and both ushered in two different covenants; and if in baptism we conform to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (identify with him)(Rom 6:4/Col 2:12), then obviously we have to be baptized unto Jesus Christ, right? Otherwise, it doesn’t make sense, does it? When one is immersed in the name of Jesus, he or she is being baptized into the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; because in Christ dwells all the fullness of Godhead bodily (Col 1:19/2:9).

It then means that either the original wording of Matthew 28:19 has been tampered with or it means to baptize in the name of “the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost” which is exactly what the Apostles of the lamb followed. Even if you want to substantiate the Trinitarian version, it would eventually lead to the name of Jesus Christ when we properly analyse it. I shall explain.

People think that according to – Matt 28:19 – Christ has given us a word formula/ mode/ technique/ procedure to baptize – and if you don’t do exactly how it says – you need to be re-baptized or your baptism is not effective enough! I would rather follow the pattern the Apostles had laid out for us to follow in the first place. The Gospel of Matthew says “baptizing them into (eis) the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; Luke uses such turn of phrase as baptizes in (epi) the name of Jesus Christ – Acts 2:38 – baptized into (eis) the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 8:16 – Baptized in (en) the name of Jesus Christ – Acts 10:48; Peter to whom the Lord Jesus Christ gave the keys of the kingdom of heaven – Matt 16:19/Acts 2:1 – commanded them to be baptized in this manner – or baptized into (eis) the name of the Lord Jesus. Keep in mind that, the name “Yeshua” in Hebrew means, “God our Salvation”. The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs INTO IT and is safe – Pro 18:10. “Preaching Christ crucified”, to the Jews is a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks it is foolishness; but unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God – 1 Corinthians 1:23,24. God has become my Yeshua; Behold, God is my salvation – Isaiah 12:2; God was manifest in the flesh – 1Tim 3:16; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13; This is the true God, and eternal life –1 John 5:20. God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ (the Messiah, the anointed One)(Acts 2:36).

JESUS is God’s all-encompassing name (the Father’s unspoken name). JESUS was the name that the Son declared. And he stated unequivocally that that was His Father’s name! A man’s name was revealed to be that of the Spirit (the Lord is that Spirit – 2 Cor 3:17 – the second man is the Lord from heaven – 1 Cor 15:47).

“I have DECLARED unto them thy name, and will disclose it,” the Son (human) prayed to the Father (Eternal Spirit). “I will DECLARE thy name unto my brethren, and in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee,” the Son states again in Hebrews 2:12.
“I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if anyone comes in his own name, him ye will receive,” Jesus informed the Jews (John 5:43).
The Eternal Spirit is Jehovah Saviour, and the Son of man is the embodiment of Jehovah Saviour. And we address the “fullness of God bodily” when we say the name Jesus (Col 1:19/2:9).

God had concealed His name? We speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory (1 Corinthians 2:7) – the mystery of Christ – Ephesians 3:4 – which from the beginning of the world hath been hidden in God (Ephesians 3:9) – Even the mystery which hath been hidden from ages and generations, but now is made manifest to his saints (Col 1:26).

“Tell me, I pray thee, thy NAME,” Jacob asked the Angel of the Lord as he struggled with him (Genesis 32:27). “Wherefore dost thou ask after my name?” the Angel said, refusing to reveal his identity.
Later, the Angel of the Lord appeared to Samson’s father, Manoah. Manoah was curious about His name but was told not to: “Why asks thou so after my NAME, because it is SECRET?” (Judges 13:18).

It would appear that the Lord’s Angel would be able to declare the Lord’s NAME, yet this is not the case.

ONE SPECIAL NAME was kept hidden because of something in God’s plan and purpose. However, it became clear that the previous names were incomplete.

Zechariah prophesied, “And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be ONE LORD, and His NAME ONE” (Zechariah 14:9).
Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? What is HIS NAME, and what is HIS SON’S NAME, if thou canst tell? – Proverbs 30:4

Only on the magnificent event of the Incarnation, God chose to disclose the highest name ever revealed. Throughout the millennia God had remained an invisible Spirit, manifesting Himself only on rare occasions in a variety of transitory forms, or Theophanies (i.e., men, angels, apparitions, smoke, fire, clouds, whirlwinds, and in dreams and visions). Because God had only partially disclosed Himself, it was only fair that His name was only partially revealed as well.

The reason Jesus’ name must be invoked during baptism is because the spiritual rulers of the world would only release a person upon hearing that name, before which every knee bows – Philippians 2:9-11; Romans 14:11. All authority is given to Jesus in heaven and on earth – Matthew 28:18. This means Jesus is established as Lord and Christ – the ruler, divine, sovereign, symbol of authority, granted power: — control, dominion, freedom, might, entitlement, potency. Sin, death, and hell are under his dominion – Revelation 1:18. When Moses went to Pharaoh to ask for the release of the Israelites, he did not specifically tell Pharaoh who sent him, but he did convey God’s message and demanded to let His people go. Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go – Exodus 5:1. And Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go – Exodus 5:2. Unlike back then, the Pharaoh of today’s world is well aware of who he is dealing with. He has first-hand knowledge of the Lord – Matthew 4:1/8:29; Hebrews 2:14; Colossians 2:15. The mention of the Lord’s name sends shivers down his spine. Jesus entered the strong man’s house bound him first and spoiled his house and good; He destroyed the works of the devil – Matthew 12:29; Mark 3:27; Luke 11:21,22; 1 John 3:8.

In water baptism, it is a declaration to the forces of darkness that in the name of Jesus Christ the soul, which is immersed, has been set free and is united with Christ. It is a transfer from one realm to another that occurs in this exchange. It is a symbol of the soul’s allegiance to Christ – Colossians 1:13. Acts 2:41,47 says, they that gladly received Peter’s word WERE BAPTIZED: and the same day there were added unto the church about three thousand souls – Acts 2:41. It is turning unto the Lord in obedience to God – Acts 5:29. It is made plain here that complete adherence to Christ required water immersion. It is cleaving to the Lord with purpose of heart—that is, with one’s real, genuine desire—and it is turning to the Lord and being added to the Lord – Acts 11:21,23,24.

Unlike Moses, the ministers of Christ do not have to address the kingdom of darkness or command the Pharaoh to set free a soul. By the authority invested in the name of Christ, you release a soul from its captivity the moment you immerse the believing person into the depths of the watery grave. You then raise him or her up from the grave, representing the resurrection from the dead, to be seated along with Christ – Acts 26:18; Luke 20:35-38; John 5:21; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:4; Ephesians 2:6.

All of this is made possible by the Holy Ghost-quickening the human spirit. It is God’s working within a person, according to Colossians 2:12; it is the same God which worketh all in all – 1 Corinthians 12:6; it is the goodness of God – Romans 2:4/11:22; it is God which works in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure – Philippians 2:13. That is why it is considered a “gift of God,” so that no one may boast – Ephesians 2:8,9. No man can even say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost – 1 Corinthians 12:3. No man can come to Jesus, except the Father which hath sent him draw him – John 6:44. This is the good news. Even David also describes the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputes righteousness without works – Romans 4:6-8. Consider that the Holy Ghost is the one who leads us to the watery grave to unite with Christ. Therefore, do not view the baptismal process as a mere symbol. It has value and significance.

Can we claim to have been raised from the dead or to have joined Christ and His church if we do not follow the biblical pattern of death, burial, and resurrection?

In the past, God was a mystery but with the coming of Christ, the mystery of God has been revealed. He is no longer a distant God but a Father who wishes to reside in man. Everything about the dark world remained a mystery until Christ came to destroy the works of the devil. He stripped the enemy of his power and triumphed over him, which is the old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, who had terrorized the world for so long – Isaiah 14:16,17; Revelation 12:9. The mystery of Satan is no longer a mystery. He is now a defeated foe.

What do all these imply? Doesn’t “baptizing in the name of Jesus Christ” imply “baptism to the divine Godhead,” emphasizing the importance and necessity of invoking that specific name? Why are we hesitant to use that name with such authority? What is it that prevents us from putting the name of Christ on a pedestal and being explicit in our declaration of it, instead of forcing us to fool around with the titles of God that we feel comfortable using? Invoking that name alone unlocks the door to life.

To get the truth across to the reader, I must be blunt. It was not the Father or the Holy Ghost who incarnated, but the second person of the Godhead, known as the Word of God – Revelation 19:13. The term “incarnate” means “embodied in flesh” or “taking on flesh.” The Word became flesh – John 1. Who his own self (autos – he, himself) bare (the paschal lamb of God – John 1:29,36; Revelation 13:8) our sins in his own body (soma – physical body) on the tree – 1 Peter 2:24. Redemption is made available to all creatures of God through the shed blood of Christ! In Greek, “blood” is translated as “αίμα” (haima), and it is found in mortal, carnal beings and creatures. Blood is a vital component of many living organisms, including humans and animals, and it plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. The life of the flesh is in the blood – Leviticus 17:11. Blood is the possession of that which is made of earthly elements. And because the earth was tainted by the rebellion of Lucifer, it was not a flawless world from which the Lord shaped Adam. The world was already tainted with sin prior to man’s fall. What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous? Job 15:14/25:4 Was not Christ born of a woman? John 16:21; Job 14:1; Galatians 4:4 The Word of God, he is the life of man – John 1:4; 1 John 5:11,12, and that sustains all creatures (the Mashiyach or the Messiah is the breath of our nostrils – Lamentations 4:20). The body that the Word of God assumed should possess characteristics of life in his blood similar to his siblings. And when he bled his blood, that is the life that he offered as a payment for our sins.

If so, we must identify with the second person in all things. This is the perfect will of God.

The mystery of the divine Godhead is that without aligning with the second person of the Godhead, no one can connect with God. Why, you may ask? Firstly, Christ is the wisdom and power of God; secondly, God through His Word created all things. By him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him. He is before all things, and by him, all things consist – Colossians 1:16,17. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature – Colossians 1:15, through which God can be felt and understood. Who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of his power – Hebrews 1:3. He was in the beginning with God! All things were made by him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men – John 1:1-4. He shared the same glory with the Father – John 17:5, and the Father loves the Son and hath given all things into his hand; and shows him all things that Himself does – John 3:35/5:20; All power (all authority) is given unto him in heaven and in the earth – Matthew 28:18. And it pleased the Father that in Christ should dwell all the fullness of the Godhead bodily (corporeal)– Colossians 1:19/2:9.

Christ had a unique identity that could be referred to as a ‘hypostatic union’. He was fully human and fully God.

If we claim that Jesus did not fully embody a human identity, we are essentially saying that he did not carry sin in his physical body – Colossians 1:20,22; Romans 8:3. It seems illogical to argue that his human identity was free from sin while simultaneously bearing sin in his flesh. Yet, as death is the consequence of having sinful flesh – Romans 8:3, all opposing arguments fall apart.

The antichrist spirit or influence would oppose this truth. Every spirit that confesses not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh (sarx – carnal, human nature or desires that are considered worldly or sinful) is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist – 1 John 4:3; For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist – 2 John 1:7.

As by one man sin entered the world, and death by sin; and so, death passed upon all men (Christ is included), for that all have sinned – Romans 5:12; The sinless Word of God became one with us in all things and was made sin for us. God hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him – 2 Corinthians 5:21. That which is conceived in the womb of the virgin Mary; the holy thing which shall be born of Mary – Luke 1:35, is the Son of man, Who in the days of his flesh when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death and was heard in that he feared – Hebrews 5:7; Luke 22:42.

Through the incarnation, the Holy and Just One took upon Himself the sin of the world by being conceived in the womb of the virgin Mary. Why was he cut off out of the land of the living? Daniel 9:26; Isaiah 53:8. Because he touched the uncleanness of man, but not for himself – Leviticus 5:3/7:21; Daniel 9:26. He became accursed for us – Galatians 3:13. He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted; he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him – Isaiah 53:4,5. God had made his soul (nephesh – a breathing creature) an offering for sin – Isaiah 53:10. The Creator God became a creature by nature. The very “breath of life” had become a nephesh like the first Adam, a breathing creature – Genesis 2:7. In Simple terms, by nature, the Almighty One humbled Himself and took on human form – Philippians 2:6-9.

Since the Holy Ghost affirmed that we have a high priest who can sympathize with our weaknesses and was tempted in every way just like us yet without sin, our failure to reach an agreement on this issue arises from a conflict with the Holy Ghost – Hebrews 4:15. Considering Jesus as dissimilar means considering the works of atonement flawed and incomplete. Remember that sin and the law are complementary; without the other, neither is valid (sin is not imputed when there is no law – Romans 5:13; Matthew 5:17). Therefore, being “yet without sin” has to do with abiding by the law and has nothing to do with moral excellence. When someone is described as righteous in the Old Testament, it doesn’t imply that they are without sin; rather, it means that they have obeyed God’s law. “Righteous” in Hebrew is ‘tsaddiyq’, means, lawful or law-abiding.

Example: They were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless – Luke 1:6; Genesis 7:1.

How did Jesus keep himself pure and spotless? God hath not given the Spirit by measure unto him – John 3:34; He through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God – Hebrews 9:14. What was the purpose of him being made perfect through suffering, otherwise? The captain of our salvation was made perfect through sufferings; he learned obedience by the things which he suffered – Hebrews 2:10/5:8; being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him – Hebrews 5:9. For whom the Lord loves he chastens and scourges every son whom he receives – Hebrews 12:6. And the Father chastened him sorely. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death (which is the effect of bearing sin in his body) he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil (and condemn sin – Roman 8:3); For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed (sperma – male sperm) of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behooved him (obligatory) to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. It was expedient for us, that one man should die for the people – John 11:49-51/18:14. Sin came into the world through one man, so righteousness also had to come through one man – Romans 5:18,19. For where a testament (covenant) is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator – Hebrews 9:16. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted – Hebrews 2:14-18.

Why did God make His Son an atonement for our sins, yet we fail to honour the name through which we are saved, a name that is higher than any other? Through Baptism, we recognize and accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, acknowledging the sacrifice He made for us and the salvation God offers through Him. “Calling upon that name” is honouring, showing gratitude and reverence for what He has done for us, and recognizing His authority and power in our lives. God has borne witness about His Son, in whom is life – 1 John 5:9-13. Christ is our life, and we must be planted into Him. God hath predestined us to be conformed to the image of his Son; that we may grow up into him in all things – Ephesians 4:15; Romans 8:29.

The Bible says, For in Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily – Col 1:19/2:9. If that is true, then the name “Jesus Christ” must be the name of the Godhead, isn’t it? When you call upon that name, you are addressing the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost. It discredits and contradicts God to place less emphasis on, ignore, or fail to act upon the name of God’s Son, whom the Father has highly exalted far above all principality, power, might, and dominion, and every name that is named, both in this world and the next – Ephesians 1:21. Magnifying that name alone glorifies God, as He has exalted His word above all His name – Psalms 138:2. Referring to the Godhead by different names or viewing them as separate entities implies the opposite of the unity of the Godhead as revealed in the Holy Scripture – 1 John 5:7; John 10:30/14:9; 1 Corinthians 8:6.

For the Scripture states: Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name, which is above every name – Phil 2:9 – that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you – 2Thess 1:12; and at that name all powers must bow. It then also means that to be baptized into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost – or be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus – are both the same, so to speak. But the quickening Spirit –1Cor 15:45/2Cor 3:17/ John 14:18/ Ephesians 4:10; who is the Word – John 1:1; who wrote the Holy Scriptures: for all scripture is given by inspiration of God – 2Tim 3:16/ 2Pet 1:21; commanded through his disciples to be baptized in His name. Even though there are three identities of God been portrayed in the Bible, we must know that God is One and when the name of Jesus is exalted, the Father, the Holy Ghost also is exalted because the Godhead is one essence. Who hath declared this from ancient times? Who hath told it from that time? Have not I the Lord? (There is one Lord – Ephesians 4:5/1Cor 8:6) And there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour (the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; This is the true God – 1 John 5:20; Titus 2:13), there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God (saith the Lord Jesus Christ), and there is none else – Isaiah 45:21-22. 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 says thou then, Show us the Father? John 14:9. He is, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6. He said, before Abraham was, I AM – John 8:58. This is He, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spoke to Moses in the mount Sinai, and with our fathers – Acts 7:38.

For thou hast magnified thy word (John 1) above all thy name (Psalm 138:2)

He that believeth (in the name of Jesus Christ – the one name of God given among men whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12) and is baptized (identity with him – Rom 6:4/Col 2:12) shall be saved – Mark 16:16. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12. Does it make sense? Identifying with Christ is identifying with the Godhead. To identify with the Godhead, one must first identify with Christ, as it is impossible to come to God otherwise. Let all persons call on the name of the Lord Jesus while being immersed in water – Acts 22:16. For baptism now saves –1 Peter 3:21.

The Scriptures divulge the fact that “Jahoshea” means “Jehovah the Saviour”. Jesus (Iēsous) is the Greek form of the Hebrew “Jahoshea”. JESUS’ name meant SALVATION – Matthew 1:21. The roots of the Greek word Jesus trace to the Hebrew Jehoshua which is a combination of Jehovah (Self- existent One) and Yasha (Saviour) forming the highest name of Jehovah ever known: Jehovah-Yasha (Saviour)!

Hence, there shouldn’t be any doubt that Jesus is also the name of the Father. Jesus himself confirmed this when he said, I am come in my Father’s name – John 5:43; Jesus prayed, Father, glorify thy name – John 12:28; and which name did the Father glorify? Phil 2:9. For there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12.

In the Old Testament He says, Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else (the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13 – This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20). I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear – Isaiah 45:22,23. Jesus confirms it: For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord (kurios – the ultimate authority), every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God – Romans 14:11. Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I AM – John 8:58; And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM (Yahweh) – Exodus 3:14. And he is before all things – Col 1:17; This is that Moses – Acts 7:36-39.

When you say the Name Jesus, you are saying in an abridged form “Jehovah the Saviour.” Even Trinitarians admit that the name Jehovah is applied to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one – 1 John 5:7. If so, why would not the name Jesus (Jehovah-Saviour) be equally applicable to the divine Triune Being? The three persons within the Godhead equally play an indispensable part in the plan of Salvation, don’t they?

Question: Does verbally pronouncing “in the name of Jesus” matter much? It certainly does! Verbal usage: they healed the sick and cast out devils in “Jesus’ Name – Mark 16:17,18/Acts 3:6,8. The apostles weren’t shy to utter the Name; they knew where the authority lies; they knew whom God hath glorified; they knew to whom they should conform to; they knew in whom dwells the fullness of Godhead bodily.

What name terrifies the demonic fold? What name carries authority? “Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ (Yahweh Saviour) to come out of her” (Acts 16:18). And the demon, came out the same hour. And it was a verbally uttered formula that did it. In the book of Acts, chapter 4 we can see how the apostolic prayer was concluded: “that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus” (Acts 4:30); and “when they had prayed the place was shaken where they were assembled” (v.31).

Healing and expelling demons were done verbally in Jesus’ Name.
Praying in Jesus’ Name was also verbal.
Our prayers are now concluded in Jesus’ Name.

Nonetheless, some show such reluctance and oppose baptizing “in Jesus’ Name”, I wonder why? Who do we want to join people to? To a denomination or Christ? No wonder, the present-day churches have gone lukewarm; no wonder the devils won’t leave; no wonder the healings stopped; no wonder there is no holy living. A dearth of knowledge on the divinity of Christ is what engendered such variance. I pray this school of thought would neutralize the prevailing polarity that exists within the Christendom: “I baptize you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in whom dwells all fullness – Col 1:19; in whom dwells all the fullness of the Godhead* (the Greek word is “theotes” which means “divinity”)(The Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost – the titles given to the one true God) *bodily – Col 2:9”. It then concludes that for now the totality of divinity (God) is in Christ until…..1Cor 15:28.

When addressing someone (a person) or using them as names, family titles like Mom and Dad are capitalized; otherwise, they are lowercase. If you use words like mom and dad as common nouns—that is, not in place of a person’s name—you do not uppercase them. Example: Thanks, Mom and Dad! I thought Mom and Dad would attend the ceremony. But I thought your mom and dad would be here.

Likewise, when you see capitalized titles of God: The Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost, it is denoting three PERSONS of the Godhead, not the names. God is One; these three are One – 1 John 5:7; yet three distinct persons, but one name. That name is Jesus Christ; the great God and Saviour – Titus 2:13/1 Timothy 6:14-16. And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell – Colossians 1:17-19/2:9.

It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him. Now if we are dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him – 2 Tim 2:11/Rom 6:8 – being made conformable unto his death – Phil 3:10.

The water baptism is an answer of a good conscience toward God and the sign of being buried with Christ in baptism into death – 1Pet 3:21/Rom 6:4/Col 2:12. Precious Holy Ghost baptized us into the body of Christ (through the faith of the operation of God – Col 2:12)(1Cor 12:13); but the water baptism is an outward expression of the bestowed inward grace. It is the seal or signature of your volition. Through baptism, we proclaim to the world that we are crucified with Christ – Gal 2:20 and that the world is crucified unto us and us unto the world – Gal 6:14. And henceforth we live not unto (to and for) ourselves, but unto (to and for) him, which died for us, and rose again – 2Cor 5:15. We by means of baptism are committing ourselves to Christ by that solemn promise (Pledge of Allegiance – Rom 10:9 – a solemn oath of loyalty or commitment to Christ and his kingdom – Col 1:13).

Baptism was practiced by the first-century Christians as a kind of initiatory rite and was given ‘into’ the name of Jesus, to whom a believer would be joined. To whom are we intended to join? To Christ, right? Joined unto the Lord (1 Cor 6:17; baptized into Christ (Gal 3:27). Why is it crucial? Because we are BURIED WITH him by baptism into death – Rom 6:3-11; planted together in the likeness of his death – Rom 6:5; our old man is crucified with him, that henceforth we should not serve sin – Rom 6:6. For he that is dead is freed from sin (Romans 6:7,11). Simply put, through baptism we are conforming to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ – Col 2:12/Phil 3:10/Eph 2:6; thus we reckon that we have passed from death unto life (1 John 3:14). Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (Rom 6:3)

In the Old Testament, they were baptized ‘unto’ (eis) Moses, but in the New, we’ve been commanded to be baptized ‘into’ the Lord Jesus Christ.

And he said unto them, unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance* (baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel – Acts 13:24,38)(repent from what? for the remission of past sins! Rom 3:25/ to be redeemed of the transgressions that were under the first testament – Heb 9:15), *saying unto the people, that they should believe on him, which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 19:3-5/18:24-26). This baptism for the believing Jew or Gentile (even now) stands for the gesture of his affiliation to Christ (1Pet 3:21/Col 2:12/Rom 6:4). This is the New Testament mandate for all (Jew and Gentile) to become a part of this one new man (Eph 2:15); as lively stones built up as a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ – 1 Peter 2:5; In whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto a holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. – Ephesians 2:21,22.

Be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16; and they were baptized, he and all his, straightway – Acts 16:33.

Sins are remitted in His name. Jesus’ instruction was that SIN REMISSION BE PREACHED IN HIS NAME (Luke 24:47).The Apostles’ ministries confirmed their conviction that EVERY CONVERT should be baptized in the NAME of JESUS Christ.“Repent,” he said, “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 2:38), (the gift, being the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues).Peter’s requirement to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ was in direct obedience to Jesus’ command in Luke 24:47.On arrival, Ananias directed Saul to “Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON the NAME of the LORD”, (Acts 22:16).Peter repeatedly commanded baptism in Jesus’ name And he COMMANDED them to be baptized in the NAME of the Lord” (Acts 10:47,48).The emphasis is on the fact that the NAME of JESUS is the SAVING NAME of God. We call upon the SAVING NAME to be saved.Peter said, “Whosoever shall CALL on the NAME of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21).Paul taught them that they were to “believe on him who should come after John, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the NAME of the LORD JESUS.

Baptism by immersion, infant baptism, or sprinkling holds no merit if it is not an outcome of one’s faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He that ‘believes and is baptized’ is the mode. He who believes not is already condemned. Baptism should be an outward act of an inward experience. Baptism itself won’t save a person but faith that precedes baptism does.

To the holy Apostles of the lamb, without calling on the name of the Lord Jesus, the water baptism was actually null and invalid.

As Jesus said:

At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you (John 14:20).

From CHAOS to CLARITY: The Transformative Power of the Gospel in Personal Struggle

Introduction to Personal Struggle

Since my early years, as I began to comprehend the world around me, I became aware that something within me was not quite right. I experienced a sense of emptiness and disorder within myself, like a shapeless existence. I struggled to find a sense of identity and who I am. Chaos and Void are intertwined, as seen since the beginning of time. It was only after the radiant light of the wonderful gospel of Jesus Christ had entered my heart and I grew spiritually that I recognized the diabolical forces within me that sought to destroy my life.

Theological Foundations

An evil domain within us! That is what the Adamic transgression has brought us. Even though we have turned to Christ, we will still have to deal with two conflicting natures and authorities within ourselves until the day the Lord changes our sinful body. According to the apostle Paul, “evil is present with us”, that is in our flesh – Acts 7:14-21; Galatians 5:17.

The book of James discusses the contrast between two different types of wisdom that every believer must navigate – James 3. One realm follows the “law of sin and death” while the other follows “the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus”– Romans 6:22/7:5/8:2,13. However, for the unregenerate, sin reigns supreme.

Our struggle against sin starts the day we come into Christ’s life. Only believers, as opposed to the wicked, face an opponent. Given that sin is his master, why would a sinner engage in combat? However, once he or she is set free from the power of sin, a born-again believer faces opposition. The kingdom of the dark world desires to reclaim its captives, and it will pursue them until the body of sin is put off. Sanctification is therefore essential to living a successful life –1 Thessalonians 4:3/5:21-23.

We must always put on the Lord Jesus Christ (that is, to put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness), making no provision for the body to fulfil its lusts – Romans 13:14; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; abstaining from fleshly lusts that war against the soul – 1 Peter 2:11; and thus, giving no place to the devil – Ephesians 4:27. The process of sanctification is just the replacement of the old corrupt nature with the divine nature and holiness – Hebrews 12:10; 2 Peter 1:4.

If you see previous inclinations coming back, don’t be surprised; they may even seem to be present. Though it could give the impression that it is still alive, it has ended and is lifeless. It may fool us into thinking it’s still powerful, but that’s not the case.

Through Christ’s crucifixion, our old selves were crucified as well. The Bible confirms that we have been made alive with Christ, sharing in his death and resurrection, which is symbolically represented in the act of baptism. Ephesians 2:1,5,6; Colossians 2:12,13; and Romans 6:3,4 all convey the message that God has brought us back to life with Christ, enabling us to participate in his death and resurrection, a significance that is deeply ingrained in the ritual of water baptism.

We are instructed to discard the corrupt old nature, as there is no reason to carry something dead. It is akin to shedding old skin. The old sinful nature, which was crucified with Christ, must be removed to avoid becoming unpleasant.

The book of Genesis reflects the condition of the human heart. Just as a baby’s soul is surrounded by the womb’s water, so is the soul of man. When God says, “Let there be light,” the soul breaks forth from the dark watery realm into the world’s light. Jesus Christ is the light that shines in darkness; the true Light, which lights every man that cometh into the world – John 1:5,9. God must speak for something to come forth into being—for He upholds all things by the word of his power (before and after) – John 6:44; Hebrews 1:3.

The Human Condition and God’s Sustenance

If God doesn’t uphold all things, nothing can remain intact. Even the very breath that sustains all living creatures comes from God. The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life – Job 33:4. God Yahweh, created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and that which comes out of it, who gives breath to its people and spirit to those who walk in it – Isaiah 42:5. David, the Psalmist, and the prophets all grasped this concept, as David expressed it when he said, “the earth is abundant with the goodness of the Lord” – Psalms 33:4,5.

Raising the earth from the watery depths can be compared to the emergence of a soul. The soul originates from its maker – Job 12:10; Ecclesiastes 12:7. While the body is earthly, it is also formed and supported by the divine creator – Psalms 139. Despite man’s innate nature to hate the Creator – Romans 5:10; Colossians 1:21; God loves the human beings He has created, as they are His children – Acts 17:26-29. No wonder the Lord God causes the sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust – Matthew 5:45. The Lord God does not delight in the death of the wicked; rather, He desires that the wicked renounce their ways and live – Ezekiel 33:11. For the Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works – Psalm 145:17.

The Lord executes judgment for the oppressed: which gives food to the hungry. The Lord frees the prisoners. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind: the Lord raises them that are bowed down. For He loves righteousness. He preserves the strangers; he relieves the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turns upside down – Psalm 146:7-9.

It’s still unclear how a soul is generated, and man simply wishes to deny the existence of a creator God. Tell me where the soul goes after death, you who consider yourself intelligent. Since you are unable to respond to that question, and since the Bible is the only source of doctrine that is acknowledged as inspired by God, I will quote from it instead. It states that no one has the authority to control the spirit or to hold onto it after death since the spirit will ultimately return to the Almighty – Ecclesiastes 8:8/12:7.

All that man designs, and uses is the product of human creativity, but he is unaware that in making things, he is embodying the quality of his heavenly father. Man cannot attest that it is God that gives to all life, and breath, and all things; And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; That they should seek the Lord if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though He is not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your poets have said, For we are also his offspring – Acts 17:25-28.

But sin, which paved the way for ignorance to set in, blinded him and led him to believe that the Godhead is like gold, silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device – Acts 17:29,30, which God has come to remove through Christ. Through the destruction of sin in his flesh – Romans 6:14/8:3; Colossians 1:22, Christ made it possible for anyone who believes in him to have that life and walk in it. There is no need for a pilgrimage or sacrifices to receive this spiritual emancipation; because anyone calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved, that is the offer – Romans 10:13. And as many as received him, to them, He gave power (freedom, authority, strength) to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name – John 1:12. For those He picked, He took away the scales from their eyes, enabling them to see and be amazed at God. The eyes of their understanding were enlightened, and they could see not only the reality of God but their nakedness as well – Ephesians 1:18.

The Struggle with Sin and Identity

The soul then must break forth out of the watery grave, which represents the sinful realm. Didn’t the Psalmist recite, Behold, I was shaped in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me? Psalm 51:5 That’s what the watery grave represents. Every child born into the world, because of the Adamic sin, must come through the realm of sin. No other way can you come. Even Jesus the Messiah had to take that route. This is going to shock many who claim that the body that Jesus Christ possessed was unlike ours. Wouldn’t that imply that the body of Mary too would thus be realized? It was from this that the immaculate conception doctrine originated. And if that be true, wouldn’t that make all her lineage sinless? But the truth is far from it.

Tell me, did Mary not come from the Adamic line and was she not born in sin, as mentioned in Psalm 51:5? If we look at the lineage of Jesus according to the flesh, it is the worst lineage that he came from. It ranges from murderers, adulterers, wicked kings, prostitutes etc.

What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous? Job 15:14 Jesus too was made of a woman, made under the law – Galatians 4:4. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same – Hebrews 2:14/4:15. His body was taken from man, which man, you might ask? King David to be precise. Was he not dead and buried ages back? But is there anything too hard for the Lord? People are willing to believe the declarations of scientists, who are only mortals, but they are reluctant to believe what God says. Whose report would you believe? If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is God’s testimony which he has testified concerning his Son – 1 John 5:9.

The Sacrificial Role of Christ

I believe in the word of God. For it says, Jesus Christ was born of the seed of David according to the flesh – Romans 1:3; David being a prophet and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise Christ to sit on his throne – Acts 2:30; Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David – 2 Timothy 2:8. Here we see the Holy Ghost speaks through three holy men about its validity. Isn’t that enough to convey that the body that Jesus Christ took upon was vulnerable to all sinfulness and weakness as we also are? Yes, the Bible confirms it – Hebrews 2:10,14,18/ 4:15/ 5:8,9; Romans 8:3.

Death would not have affected his body if Jesus did not partake of the same, which would jeopardize God’s purpose; not to mention, that he would be unable to prove that he is a high priest capable of understanding us – Hebrews 2:14,18/4:15. Death is the result of sin. The last Adam also took upon him the sin of the world. The Messianic Psalms tell us the cry of the Messiah pleading for forgiveness of his sins. Isaiah 53 says, thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back – Isaiah 38:17; Job 33:24. He became the scapegoat and absorbed all the wrath of God, which was due toward us. He thus condemned sin in the flesh – Romans 8:3. The recorded declaration that he condemned sin in the flesh would therefore be unacceptable if he had chosen a different body. So how are you going to accept it?

Christ's Example and Our Spiritual Journey

How did he survive the pull and tug of the body of sin? His total reliance upon the Father helped him succeed, leaving us an example, that we should follow his step – John 5:19,30. Through the eternal Spirit, he offered himself without blemish to God – Hebrews 9:14.

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name – Philippians 2:8,9. Just like any of us, Jesus too had to grow in spirit – Luke 2:40, to realise his identity and his purpose. Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God – John 13:3 – KJV.

The Divine Intervention in Creation

The soul comes out breaking the sin barrier with the help of the unseen hand of the Spirit of God, which moves upon the face of the deep or darkness. Psalm 139 clearly states the work of God in the birth of every child. To Jeremiah God says, before I formed thee in the belly, I knew thee; and before thou came forth out of the womb I sanctified thee – Jeremiah 1:5. Come forth is the same word that is used throughout the Bible when God commanded something that was held back to come forth, to issue, causatively, to bring out, to draw out.

The phrase “to come forth” means to appear or make an appearance, often in response to a call or invitation. “To issue” refers to the act of making something public or available, such as a statement or order. “Causatively” is an adverb that means in a way that produces a cause or effect. “To bring out meaning” means to reveal or make clear the significance of something.

Psalm 139:13-16 says it is God who creates our inmost being; He knit us together in our mother’s womb; my frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” Why would he say, “when I was woven together in the depths of the earth“? Isn’t he relating or drawing a parallel between the birth of humans and the verses in Genesis 1?

Isaiah 44:24 says, “Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, who formed you from the womb: ‘I am the Lord, who has made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens, who spread out the earth by myself.'”

The Breath of Life and the Light of Christ

The phrase “God breathed life into man” refers to the biblical creation story found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 2:7. In this verse, it is written: “Then the Lord God formed man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” The phrase “breathed life” is often interpreted symbolically, representing the idea that God gave Adam a soul or spirit, making him a living and conscious being. In the context of the Hebrew language, the word “breath” is “neshamah,” which carries a deeper meaning beyond mere physical respiration. It refers to the vital force or spirit that animates a person, often translated as “soul” or “spirit of life.”

Christ: The Life and Light of Men

I am going to shock you with this. Do you know what was that breath? It was the life of man, which was Christ. Hard to digest? In him (the Word) was life, and the life was the light of men – John 1:4. Of course you knew it. But wait, there’s more. He is the true Light, which lights every man that cometh into the world – John 1:9. He lights up every man that comes into the world! Recall the verse in Genesis when God commanded the light to shine out of darkness in verse 3 before creating man! It doesn’t exactly say in Genesis that God commanded the light to shine out of the darkness but when the mystery was revealed in the New Testament, apostle Paul understood it and he said, For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ – 2 Corinthians 4:6.

The Pre-Creation Light

Do you see the parallel? The cosmic light that we see created on the fourth day is not the same as this light, that was brought forth before God began creation itself. It not only came forth but also God divided the light from darkness in verses 4 and 5. Unlike the cosmic lights He created on the fourth day; this one is unique.

Jesus Christ: The Breath of Our Nostrils

Who is the breath of our nostrils? The breath of our nostrils, the anointed of the Lord (mashiyach) – Lamentations 4:20; who is the Mashiyach or Messiah? Jesus Christ is the Christos – John 6:69/20:31. And he is before all things, and by him, all things consist – Colossians 1:17. This light, which lights up every man, came first, then the creation. He is the first and the last, the beginning and the end – Revelation 1:11,17/ 22:13. He is the firstborn of every creature – Colossians 1:15. Keep in mind that unlike us, the Word of God is not a created being but came forth from God Himself. Now you know why man is nothing without Jesus Christ. God brought forth the Word of God first and through and by and for Him created everything. All things were made by him, and without him was not anything made that was made – John 1:3. And man was created after His image and likeness. He is the exact representation of the invisible God. For, he who hath seen Him hath seen God – John 1:18/14:9; 1 Timothy 6:14-16.

This is the life that Adam was cut off from. His name is called the Word of God – Revelation 19:13; and it isn’t just in him that the life is, but He is the very life of man – John 1:4; 1 John 5:11,12. He upholds all things by the word of His power – Hebrews 1:3.

The Dual Nature of Man

So, darkness was upon the face of the deep, which means, not only was I shaped in iniquity but in sin did my mother conceive me – Psalm 51:5. And because God divided the light from darkness, man is now endowed with two spiritual realms. One is his spirit, and the other is his carnality. The spirit realm can be seen as the tree of life and the fleshly realm as the tree of good and evil. Since the fall, the tree of life has been withheld from man as sin became the dominant force. Until the Son of God comes and destroys sin, he won’t have access to the Tree of Life.

The Tree of Life and the Overcomer

I want you to carefully glean the revelation that God has given me through the scripture verse I am giving you. If you can see it, it will blow your world and will transform your life.

The Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcomes will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God – Revelation 2:7. We have learned that this overcoming and everything else and because the book of Revelation is attached to the end of the Bible, we deem it not only as an eschatological order of life but written for people of that times. On the contrary, it is written about us. I will show you.

The Scripture tells us in the book of Proverbs 3:18, that the Wisdom is a tree of life; The fruit of the righteous too is a tree of life – Proverbs 11:30; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations – Revelation 22:2; Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates (pulon) into the city – Revelation 22:14.

“Pulon” is the doorway of a building or city. Who is the door, a portal or entrance? Jesus said I am the door: by me, if any man enters in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out (of the heavenly city) – John 10:9. Have we not come in yet? Indeed, we have come unto Mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem – Hebrews 12:22. Overcomes is “Nikao”. The Greek word “nikaomai”, means “to be victorious” or “to win”. This word is derived from the Greek root “nikē”, which means “victory”. It means “to win the game”, and the phrase “nikao ti zōi” means “to overcome life’s challenges”. Overall, while the word “nikao” itself is not a Greek word, it is likely related to the Greek word “nikaomai” and shares its meaning of “to win” or “to be victorious”. To be victorious, to conquer, to triumph.

Who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 5:5. For whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith – 1 John 5:4. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them (overcome the spirit of antichrist, the world and the wicked one – the world is that great whore, the Mystery Babylon): because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world – 1 John 4:3,4 (he hath delivered us from this present evil world – Galatians 1:4); the word of God abides in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one – 1 John 2:13,14; To him that overcomes will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne – Revelation 3:21; God hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus – Ephesians 2:6. He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son – Revelation 21:7. Before the founding of the New Testament with His blood – Hebrews 9:15-22; Jesus said to his disciples, be of good cheer; I have overcome the world – John 16:33. But after the inception of the Spirit of God upon all flesh on the day of Pentecost, which is the promise of the Father; the Lord says, all who are born of God are overcomers like Jesus is. Because as he is, so are we in this world – 1 John 4:17.

Zion: The Ecclesia of God

For the Lord shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places, and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness shall be found therein thanksgiving, and the voice of melody – Isaiah 51:3. And they shall say, This desolate land has become like the garden of Eden, and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are become fenced and are inhabited – Ezekiel 36:35. Didn’t the Lord build all the ruined places and plant that that was desolate? Indeed, he did.

Zion is where the ecclesia of God is; it is the heavenly Jerusalem, the spiritual body of Christ. God has made her like the garden of Eden and the tree of life in the midst of it, whose leaves were for the healing of the nations. Where the nations of the world were like this before the inception of the kingdom of Christ? The world has been transformed by the triune entities of God that are in the world, which are the Spirit, the Word, and the Ecclesia. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manners of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations – Revelation 22:2. Are we waiting for this to transpire? Listen, people of God, we are in it. Don’t you see? The saving health (yshuw`ah = salvation) among all nations is already made known – Psalm 67:2; 1 Chronicles 16:23,24; Psalms 22:27; Jeremiah 3:17; Isaiah 35:5-8. The Gentile world or the nations of the world has come to possess the “Tabernacle of Witness” – Acts 7:44,45; Romans 9:25,26; Hosea 1:10. The “Tabernacle of Witness” also known as the “Temple” or “Home of the Lord.” The city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem – Hebrews 12:22. It is inevitable that the Church of Jesus Christ, a living entity that exists presently in a spiritual state, will descend from heaven to manifest on Earth, where she will be visible to everyone and establish her dominion as the exclusive possessor of all that God possesses – Revelation 21:2.

The New Humanity in Christ

After eating from the forbidden tree, Adam ought to have acquired two distinct fruit-bearing trees, but God barred him from accessing the tree of life. Moreover, a soul only becomes dual-identity capable when it undergoes spirit regeneration. Although that is not how God meant for man to exist, he must put up with it until the Lord grants him a new body. By embracing the domain of darkness, which is what eating from the forbidden tree represents, Adam neutralized the tree of life, so to speak. By coalescing with the dark world, Adam rescinded the godly order. He was cut off from life and his spirit, which was the tree of life had become defunct. That is what Jesus Christ came and restored. That which is born of the Spirit is spirit – John 3:6; which is the candle of the Lord – Proverbs 20:27. The light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon us – Isaiah 60:1; For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ – 2 Corinthians 4:6.

Unlike Adam, who was made a living soul – Genesis 2:7, the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. That was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterwards that which is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly – 1 Corinthians 15:45-48. God hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead – 1 Peter 1:3.

God created a superior species of humanity in Christ, one that is composed of both flesh and Spirit. Even the Old Testament believers could only look through the prophets’ eyes but couldn’t experience it. Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come – 1 Peter 1:10. They were shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed – Galatians 3:23.

The Heart Transformed by Spirit

Now, the voidness and formless heart have become functioning—as the spirit of man is revived or quickened by the Spirit of God. Darkness, which was upon the face of the deep in Hebrew is “Choshek”, which is the antonym of “Shalom”. The word “darkness” in Hebrew is “Choshek,” and it means darkness, misery, destruction, death, sorrow, and wickedness. It can refer to physical darkness or metaphorical darkness, such as spiritual or moral confusion. In the Bible, the concept of “Choshek” is often associated with the punishment of sin and the need for repentance.

The Departure from Darkness

The darkness is past (ignorance is past – Acts 17:30), and the true light now shines – 1 John 2:8. That thou mayest say to the prisoners, go forth; to them that are in darkness, Shew yourselves (the people that walked in darkness have seen a great light – Isaiah 9:2). They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them. And I will make all my mountains a way, and my highways shall be exalted. Behold, these shall come from far: and, lo, these from the north and the west; and these from the land of Sinim. Sing, O heavens; and be joyful O earth, and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people and will have mercy upon his afflicted – Isaiah 49:9-13.

The Dual Nature of Man

So now, as new creatures – 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15, we must contend with two opposing forces; the spirit and the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other – Galatians 5:17; Romans 8:13.

Man is now endowed with two traits, so to speak. He through Christ is granted access to the tree of life but the effects of eating from the tree of good and evil are still stuck in his teeth that he cannot get it out, that it is so ingrained in himself that God must transform his vile body to get rid of the sinful nature – Philippians 3:21.

Personal Testimony of Inner Struggle

Coming back to me: As I said in the beginning, ever since I have grown to understand things, I realized that something was off in me; I felt a void in me, and chaos ensued. I didn’t have the slightest idea what it was. I thought it was me. It was miserable and utterly hopeless and chaotic I wanted to end my life somehow.

I would say, I was kind of a masochist. Masochism, or the pursuit of personal anguish or seeking pain for oneself, is another phenomenon that affects not only confused teenagers but adults as well. These customs were also observed by ancient civilizations or groups.

A masochist is a person who derives gratification from their pain or humiliation; a person who enjoys an activity that appears to be painful or soul-destroying. I now realize that both sadism and masochism are fueled by a craving for atonement. It is the effect of the original sin in humans, which the Savior of the world has come and taken away. One must only believe in the shed blood of Jesus Christ to appropriate the merits of the redemptive work on the cross of Calvary.

The Descent into Despair and Discovery of Faith

Because of the lack of Spirit-inspired teaching in the body of Christ, and the lack of the demonstration of the power of the Holy Ghost within the local churches, people are not seeing the life of God percolating in their lives. It took me years of learning, and the grace and mercy of God to realize what was it that I was wrestling with. Though my conversion was a radical one, and I was filled with the Holy Spirit multiple times and have experienced the joy of salvation; as I grew in the spirit, when I began walking on my feet, as a child would grow and walk on his strength—The reality strikes and the comfort of the parents’ nurturing now missing—our face droops to all of life’s struggles. The Holy Spirit of God is the one who was with me nurturing me and giving me all the comforts that I needed—and suddenly, I felt I could no longer enjoy His pampering.

The Dark Night of the Soul

It wasn’t that He left me, the truth was that I had grown and that I must now begin to walk on my own. And the pressures of the world and the lusts of the flesh and the deceitfulness of riches began dragging me again back presumably to a failed life. I started to see my life falling apart and I couldn’t achieve anything. I was a total failure according to the world’s standards. My father said, you are accursed and good for nothing and there was none left in my family that did not reject me and disowned me. Even my friends, whom I thought were friends mocked and left my life. I was left alone starting to experience the old haunting depression and oppression and hopelessness trying to drag me back to my old life.

Renewal through the Word

It wasn’t until the day that I found a Gideon pocket Bible, which I treasured and began to eat from it like a ravenous wolf—I realized how impoverished I was in the spirit, and that was the cause of my voidness. I would sit on a chair and read like I would die if I didn’t. As I read through its pages, I felt a sweetness, which I cannot describe spreading all over my mouth. As the apostle John described in Revelation 10:10; it was in his mouth sweet as honey; it was in mine too. But I wasn’t aware that it had another side. As soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter – Revelation 10:10.

The Struggle and Triumph of Faith

When you receive something in the spirit, your flesh will enter into a struggle. After ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions – Hebrews 10:32. Yeah, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution – 2 Timothy 3:12. By activating your spirit man, you are now working against all that the devil has built in you. There will be a battle that one would have to endure. Paul charged Timothy to war a good warfare – 1 Timothy 1:18. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ – 2 Timothy 2:3. What else would wage war on us? Other than the demonic spirits, the fleshly lusts, war against the soul – 1 Peter 2:11. Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh, but we use our mighty spiritual weapon to thwart the work of the enemy and subdue the flesh – 2 Corinthians 10:3-6.

The Lifelong Battle with Darkness

The battle did not end there. I had to contend with the devil and flesh for many years. It’s been thirty-two years now having come to the Lord, and I’ve had innumerable heavenly spiritual experiences. I have seen God change people’s lives through my ministry; I have seen lives transformed by the power of the Holy Ghost; I have seen people delivered from the power of the enemy when I would lay hands; I have seen barren wombs blessed when I prayed; I have seen God heal many when I prayed; I have experienced the saving work of angels multiple times; I have experienced the touch of the Master countless times in my life; yet I could not pray in the Holy Ghost, which is praying in tongues. Something deep down prevented me from experiencing it.

Healing through Partnership and Prayer

God started another profound work in me just a few years ago after I met my wife, who is from Kyrgyzstan. I didn’t know that I had deep wounds of rejection and childhood abuse and the spirit of failure had its sway in me, despite my spiritual stance.

Victory and Liberation in Spiritual Warfare

When all hell broke loose in my life and all my family disowned me, I felt the same harrowing hopelessness haunting my life once again. Even after coming to Christ, its hold was deep down in me waiting to pounce when the time comes. This time it emerged and showed a suicidal intent. It wanted to kill me. The Lord placed a burden on my wife’s heart regarding me. She believed that I was her ministry. I recall her attempting to persuade me that I am a king’s child and that she is come to assist me break away from my routine. She would declare, “We will defeat the adversary and reclaim what is rightfully yours—that which the devil has taken.” Was it that simple? I will tell you that my wife had to go through a lot of pain trying to fix my life. The devil was enraged at her, but God’s mercy was with us. I can’t thank God enough for my wife, whom He has blessed me with, who prayed and prayed and fought until I was healed in many areas. I am still a work in progress, and she has borne the brunt of it. “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” – 1 John 3:16. How effective it would be if all Christians heeded this amazing idea to act as their brethren’s protectors and defenders in times of need.

The Power of Speaking in Tongues

My spirit, which was throttled, is finally starting to speak in heavenly language after all these years of struggling and warfare; having been cleansed from numerous interior scars and traumas.

Embracing the Gift of Tongues and Divine Rest

I sensed the formlessness or emptiness that was trailing my existence disappearing as soon as the Lord opened my mouth to speak in tongues. It could no longer plague me as I employed the gift of tongues. To keep our spirits steady and avoid getting throttled once more, we must fight this war every day. It takes a constant effort to keep our flesh, through which the evil spirits operate, under check.

A Testimony to the Power of the Spirit

By the spirit, I was speaking to God, mysteries. Every time, I would feel emptiness come, the spirit would begin to speak, which my mind could not understand. But the word of God says, for he that speaks in an unknown tongue speaks not unto men, but unto God: for no man understands him; howbeit in the spirit he speaks mysteries – 1 Corinthians 14:2. He that speaks in an unknown tongue edifies himself – 1 Corinthians 14:4. I wonder how “the Cessationists” edifies themselves, and what they would counsel those who are oppressed by the devils due to deep traumas. While the presbytery’s laying on of hands is important, it is not sufficient in and of itself to finish a person’s healing process. Certain healings can be received from God’s prepared ministers, but others can be achieved only via the use of our spirit man. Because our flesh works in opposition, we cannot win the struggle unless we employ our spirit. That is why the word of God enjoins us: As new-born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby – 1 Peter 2:2; let us go on unto perfection – Hebrews 6:1. That is why spiritual development is so important. Every time I would experience heaviness, my spirit would spring into action speaking mysteries and I would see darkness dissipating when I prayed in tongues.

Not only do I see and experience darkness fleeing, but I have also felt refreshed and light on the inside and light/life permeating through me. This is what prophet Isaiah was saying: with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak. This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing – Isaiah 28:11,12. Let us labour therefore to enter that rest – Hebrews 4:11. There remains therefore a rest to the people of God. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his works, as God did from his – Hebrews 4:9,10. Let us, therefore, fear, lest a promise being left us of entering his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it – Hebrews 4:1. This is the promised rest that Jesus was telling about; he said, Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest – Matthew 11:28. It is Jesus Christ that will baptize you with the Holy Ghost – Luke 3:16. And one must come to him, the source of all life to obtain that rest. Not only should one come to him, but they must also speak forth what the Spirit prompts them to say for life to flow from inside. They must approach him in a childlike manner and accept without question what he has to offer them. There’s a good chance that one would be sceptical since what Jesus would offer would not make sense to a rational mind. A person who harbours subtle pride may find it difficult to receive anything from the Lord. Preachers who fail to explain to believers the importance of this rest that comes from speaking the heavenly language are preventing them from fulfilling God’s greatest promises.

This is the rest multitudes including “the Cessationists” have come short of and are guilty of. The gift of speaking in tongues may not have seemed all that important in the Western world, where the spiritual atmosphere is not as tainted as it is in Asian countries with their abundance of temples and idol worship; however, a Christian would realize that he or she is helpless without the gift of tongues if they wanted to survive in any of those nations where voodooism, occultism, sacrilege, and similar practices are common. One might just be able to survive but at what cost? People have survived without exercising this gift, but they have also been plundered by the devil in many areas. Given that the Bible itself says that we are ignorant of what to pray for, how are you going to pray? Likewise, the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought – Romans 8:26. If not for this gift, how do we even follow the command “Pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17?

The Unseen Battle: A Testimony of Spiritual Warfare and Victory

An Encounter with Earthly Challenge

I would like to end this discussion by telling you another incident. When my wife and I tried to rent a house, the owner told us that we could avoid paying rent each month if we gave him a certain amount right away since he required a big sum of money. We felt it was fantastic as it would benefit us as well. He agreed to return the money at the conclusion of the contract when it was signed. When the time came, he was reluctant to give us any money and instead tried to evict us from the residence. Numerous horrors befell us, and we were at a loss for what to do. We were powerless and could only talk to God about this and that, but our prayers were ineffective. It was a meaningless exchange of sentimental words.

The Breakthrough of Spiritual Tongues

Thank God for this trauma; it was during this period that I began speaking in tongues and received my victory. A barrage of stupid phrases came shooting out of my throat, and I had no choice but to spit them out. My natural thought claimed that it was dumb since it was so illogical. I started to clear it out, though, because what is there for me to lose? I’ve chosen specific terms on purpose to convey what I went through. I had no idea at the time that it was the start of a stream that came from deep within.

Embracing Childlike Faith

I now know what 1 Thessalonians 5:19—”Quench not the Spirit”—means. Oh, how many people stifle His presence by refusing to accept His gifts? With our conceited and arrogant attitude, how often do we grieve the Holy Spirit of God – Ephesians 4:30? Didn’t Jesus say, Verily I say unto you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein – Luke 18:17.

The Power of Spiritual Language

Like a child, I began to speak all of the inexplicable words aloud, and that’s when I started singing in tongues. Mysteries and songs that I had never heard before began to emerge from me. When I talked in tongues, I felt a surge of energy that I had never experienced before. I understood that my spirit was binding and destroying the enemy’s works. In short, everything transpired so quickly that the entire amount of money was transferred to our bank account within a few days. I can promise that we would have lost everything if God hadn’t given us the ability to speak or pray in unfamiliar tongues.

Conclusion: 

The Victory of Faith

In the vast landscape of life’s trials, this story stands as a powerful testament to the triumph of faith over adversity. Our challenges and moments of despair served as a crucible, revealing the might of God’s power in our lives. Through the unexpected gift of speaking in tongues, we tapped into a divine strength that propelled us beyond our limited understanding and into a realm of spiritual breakthrough.

Our experience underscores the enduring truth that our struggles are not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces that aim to weaken our faith and determination. It is in our weakest moments that God’s strength shines brightest, manifesting in mysterious and profound ways, such as the language of the Spirit.

Now, as we reflect on our victory, our hearts overflow with gratitude, and our spirits resonate with the deeper cadences of God’s grace. We are reminded that our spiritual weapons are mighty through God for the demolition of strongholds – 2 Corinthians 10:4. The once seemingly foolish words and melodies were, in reality, expressions of liberation, a sacred vocabulary of the Spirit that transcended human languages and situations.

Our journey from despair to deliverance is not just our own, but an invitation to all who walk the path of faith. It urges us to seek God with a childlike heart, to embrace the spiritual gifts He provides, and to stand firm in the knowledge that our spiritual language is key to unlocking the chains of our trials.

May this testimony inspire bravery in the face of life’s storms, encouraging believers to cling to their faith, to trust in God’s invisible hand, and to declare, with unwavering conviction, the dominance of His power in every facet of life. For in Him, we are more than victors, and through Him, we can bring light to the dark corners of our journey, filling them with the unquenchable light of His everlasting love.

The Impending Storm: Precursors to GREAT TRIBULATION

Harbingers of the Impending Storm: Precursors to Great Tribulation

Introduction

In the shadowy corridors of time, ominous signs emerge, foretelling the onset of a profound upheaval. Harbingers of the Impending Storm: Precursors to Great Tribulation delves into these premonitions, unraveling the threads of destiny woven into the fabric of our existence. As the world teeters on the brink, this exploration navigates the historical, social, and geopolitical landscapes that set the stage for an impending storm. From echoes of forgotten conflicts—like the wars that scarred ancient empires—to whispers of economic unrest rippling through modern markets, each precursor serves as a cryptic clue, inviting contemplation of the forces shaping our collective fate.

This is not merely a chronicle of chaos; it is a call to awareness and preparedness. As shadows lengthen and signs intensify, understanding these harbingers becomes paramount. Through the lens of history and the scrutiny of contemporary currents, this work beckons readers to face the tumultuous waters ahead with eyes wide open, armed with knowledge, and fortified by wisdom gleaned from our shared past—a past that whispers warnings and promises alike.

Historical Foundations: The World in Darkness

The seeds of tribulation were sown long ago, in a world shrouded in spiritual and physical darkness. The Seven Churches of Asia Minor—Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea—stood as fragile outposts of faith in their infancy, as chronicled in Revelation. Founded in the 1st century AD, these communities faced persecution under Roman rule and spiritual assaults from surrounding pagan cults. Pergamum, identified as Satan’s seat (Revelation 2:12-13), was a literal and symbolic stronghold, home to the altar of Zeus and a thriving center of emperor worship. Though Satan was judged and incapacitated by Christ’s death on the cross, his influence lingered, reigning over a world infested with evil forces, tyrants, and devilish doctrines. Human government, as a structured defender of rights, had yet to emerge, leaving mankind at the mercy of chaos.

This darkness gripped the earth for centuries. Up until the Renaissance and Reformation—spanning roughly the 14th to 16th centuries—personal rights were a distant dream. Roman slavery, feudal serfdom, and tribal conquests enslaved millions, while tyrants like Nero and later warlords slaughtered without restraint. Yet, a tide turned with the advance of Christ’s missionaries. From the shores of Europe to the jungles of Africa and Asia, the Word of God—the Sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17)—pierced the gloom. Figures like Patrick in Ireland, Boniface in Germany, and later Jesuit and Protestant missionaries carried the Gospel to the uttermost parts, bulldozing Satan’s strongholds. Territories fell—Roman paganism crumbled, Viking raids gave way to Christian kingdoms—and dynasties, tribes, peoples, and languages bowed to the kingdom of Christ taking root in human hearts.

The Rise of Righteousness: The Kingdom’s Triumph

With this advent, the shalom of God emerged, a peace rooted in divine order. Law and order, founded in righteousness, devoured the world’s chaos. The kingdom grew like a mustard seed, becoming greater than all herbs, shooting out great branches (Mark 4:32). Its weapons were not carnal but mighty through God, pulling down strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4). The saints wielded high praises and a two-edged sword, executing vengeance upon the heathen, binding kings with chains, and nobles with fetters of iron (Psalm 149:6-9). Through the elect of God, the Kingdom of God now reigns in the kingdoms of men.

Even as tares—individuals influenced by the spirit of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2)—coexist with the wheat, namely the children of God, righteousness stands victorious; by 2025, the global Christian population exceeds 2.6 billion, embodying the enduring promise of the Seed of Abraham to bless the nations (Galatians 3:8, 16)—a divine aspiration that began with the twelve and now manifests, excluding the in-between generations, in this present figure of over 2.6 billion.

This vast multitude, augmented by countless saints from the first century onward and the faithful of the Old Testament, fulfills God’s covenant with Abraham, their numbers as immeasurable as the sand of the sea. Through Christ, grace and truth have extended salvation to millions upon millions, from the catacombs of Rome to the megachurches of today. Meanwhile, the Restrainer—comprising the Holy Ghost, the Church, and the archangel Michael—holds the spirit of antichrist in check (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7), ensuring the beast remains restrained while this godly entity endures. Though the kingdom of darkness through the non-redeemed hearts still has leverage on the earth, Satan, its defeated prince is not physically present on the earth, as the MIGHTY GODLY entity reigns over all kingdoms. Jesus Christ is the Prince of the kings of the earth (Revelation 1:5).

This triumph approaches its majestic crescendo as the gospel surges toward its destined consummation. Scripture mandates that it must first be proclaimed among all nations, a testimony to the world, heralding the end’s arrival (Mark 13:10; Matthew 24:14). Through the ages, human ingenuity—from the printing press to the boundless reach of the internet—has propelled this sacred charge, penetrating even the shadowed jungles of Papua New Guinea and the Amazon’s untrodden depths. Yet, these efforts pale before the transcendent moment unveiled in Revelation 14:6, when an angel, radiant with celestial mandate, declares the everlasting gospel to every nation, tribe, tongue, and soul. No earthly power—neither the iron grip of communism nor the tyranny of dictators, long veils over the light of truth—nor even the adversary’s dark dominion can silence this divine utterance. With unshakable authority, this heavenly emissary pierces the final veil, ensuring that the word resounds to every corner of creation, sealing the triumph of God’s redemptive purpose. Yet the last enemy, death—an entity like the angel of the bottomless pit (Revelation 9:11; 17:8)—remains unconquered, a beast lurking in the shadows (1 Corinthians 15:26; Revelation 6:8; 20:13-14).

Modern Precursors: Signs of the Storm

Today, the harbingers of the end intensify, their signs vividly painted across the canvas of our world. Israel persists in partial blindness, a desolation enduring until they proclaim, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord’ (Matthew 23:39). Yet, the fullness of the Gentiles approaches with unprecedented nearness (Romans 11:25), signaling the culmination of God’s redemptive ingathering. The church’s ship has now anchored at its final port, as the Greek *eschatos* declares—a term not merely denoting the end of a journey, but the threshold of God’s consummate design, where the present age yields to the eternal kingdom unveiled.

Over 300 Messianic fellowships thrive in Israel today—groups like Jews for Jesus and One for Israel report unprecedented growth—signaling a shift. Unlike the Harpazo—the rapture of the Church, a sudden snatching away—the Second Coming awaits Israel’s petition to Him whom they pierced (Hosea 5:15; Zechariah 12:10; Micah 5:5). Only then will the Twelve Tribes reach their fullness, with 12,000 from each redeemed (Romans 9:27; 11:26).

History underscores this moment’s uniqueness. Not until the 5th century did Christian churches agree on a biblical canon, a process finalized at councils like Carthage in 397 AD. The first complete English Bible emerged in the late 14th century with Wycliffe, followed by Gutenberg’s press in 1455, printing 180 copies that sparked a revolution. Revelation’s beheadings (Revelation 20:4; 7:9,14) and the devil’s unholy trinity—the Dragon, Beast, and False Prophet (Revelation 12:12; 16:13)—have yet to descend in fury, though whispers of such terror echo in modern persecutions.

The signs multiply: iniquity abounds, love grows cold, apostasy surges, and knowledge increases as never before (Daniel 12:4; Matthew 24:12; 2 Timothy 3:1-5). Global crime rates soar—homicide, trafficking, corruption—while social media amplifies division and apathy. Knowledge explodes—AI, quantum computing, space exploration—doubling humanity’s data every few years. People travel to and fro (Daniel 12:4, H7751 *shuwt*), with 4.7 billion air passengers annually by 2019, a scale unimaginable in prior eras. Amid these harbingers, the casting away of Israel was essential to reconcile the world, heralding the gospel to the Gentiles, while their receiving in the first century, as the remnant embraced Christ, was equally vital, bestowing life from the dead upon mankind (Romans 11:14-15, 23)—two facets of a single divine purpose, realized in the one new man, through which salvation flows to all.

Fornication, both spiritual and physical, pervades every heart, fueled by the wine of Babylon’s wrath (Revelation 18:3). Pornography, idolatry, and materialism grip nations, while merchants wax rich through her delicacies—global trade hit $28 trillion in 2021 alone. Witches infiltrate God’s churches—self-proclaimed psychics and prosperity preachers abound—while the spirit of antichrist creeps in. Satan masquerades as an angel of light, his ministers posing as righteous (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). The prophesied apostasy rages (2 Thessalonians 2:3), with mainline denominations diluting doctrine and pews emptying—a storm looms.

Conclusion: A Call to Stand Ready

Harbingers of the Impending Storm reveal a world at a crossroads. The tapestry of history and prophecy warns of tribulation, yet the Church’s triumph offers hope. As the gospel reaches all nations, Israel’s awakening unfolds through the remnant’s legacy, and precursors align, marking this as a time unlike any other. Death, the final foe, awaits its defeat; the unholy trinity stirs. Yet, the saints, wielding the Sword of the Spirit, are poised to bind the darkness in the culmination of God’s victory. Heed the signs, stand ready, and navigate these waters with eyes wide open—fortified by the echoes of our past and the promise of His return.