Lesson 4-16 Water Baptism? Part 4 The Baptism of Saul/Paul

I have been asked to give my understanding on water baptism, its relationship to the Body of Christ, and should we be practicing it today?

As always I will be sharing the teachings and understanding, as I believe the Lord Jesus has shown to me by study and through the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

I never encourage anyone to believe anything that I believe, without them first studying it out for themselves. If they come to a different understanding than myself, that is ok, as there is liberty in the Lord for us to not see all things the same, at the same time.

I have come to understand all the confusion among Christianity / Christians today can be attributed to the fact that the church, the Body of Christ, does not recognize the separate, distinct, and unique apostleship, ministry, and message of Paul.

Now as we continue this study of water baptism I will repeat the guidelines we are using just in case this is the first lesson you read.  This will be a benefit for all readers such that each lesson can stand on its own merit.

Introduction: Guidelines for this study;

1. We are treating the living words of the living God as spoken by the Lord Jesus and given to the Apostle Paul for the Body of Christ the same importance, as the words of the Lord Jesus recorded in red letters in the books of Matthew – Acts Chp. 8, as what should be known as the instructions to the nation Israel.
2. We will not be wresting the scriptures against each other, we will look at the verses in their context, and we will not try to make them say anything, but what they say.
3. We will be using the verses out of the Authorized Version, commonly known as the KJV. It is fine if you want to look the verses up in other translations if you like, but we will consider the Authorized Version as our final written authority.
4. We will not be using the Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic, or Latin languages to prove any points, or give any indication that the Authorized Version has been incorrectly translated.

 Different types of baptisms that are recorded in the scriptures and definitions.

1.  Water Baptism – The practice of the religious rite of sprinkling water onto a person's forehead, or of immersion of a person in water, or dipping a person in water, or pouring water on a persons head and body. (For this study the mode of water baptism is inconsequential, the fact water is involved is enough for our study)
2. Baptism of John – This is the practice of water baptism as performed by John the Baptist. (Matt. 3;11 Matt. 21;25 Mark 11;30 Luke 7;29 20;4 John 1;31 Acts 1;22 Acts 18;25 )
3. Baptism of Repentance – This also is water baptism as practiced by John and administered to sinners and publicans. (Matt. 3;6,11 Mark 1;4 Luke 3;3 Acts 13;24)
4. Baptism of the Holy Ghost – This is spiritual baptism with the Holy Ghost. (First mentioned by John the Baptist in reference to Jesus.) Pay attention and notice, John said that Jesus would be the one baptizing with the Holy Ghost, not water.) (Matt 3;11 Mark 1;8 Luke 3;16 John 1:33)
5. Baptism of Fire – Dictionary definition; an introductory or initial experience that is a severe ordeal, (this baptism is spiritual in nature and does not include any water). (Matt. 3;11)
6. Baptism of Moses – This applies to the nation of Israel who was baptized in the cloud and sea. (1^st Cor. 10;2) (This is an Old Testament event and happened when Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt.)
7. Baptism for the dead – vicarious baptism or proxy baptism today commonly refers to the religious practice of baptizing a person on behalf of one who is dead—a living person receiving the rite on behalf of a deceased person. Baptism for the dead is best known as a doctrine of the Latter Day Saint movement, which has practiced it since 1840. (For this study we will not be dealing with this subject I only include it so that you know I am aware of this practice. But to just so you know, I don’t believe that it was something Paul believed the Body of Christ was supposed to be performing. (1^st Cor. 15:29)

Our desire for these lessons are to be understandable, defendable, and have the Holy Spirit bear witness that the answers are the true, and correct, interpretation of the Holy Scriptures. 

1. Now at this point we have established some very important Bible truths which are often overlooked when people just read their Bible like a novel, instead of studying their Bible like the textbook it is, (authored and inspired by God, transcribed by man). 
2. At this point we have established there are a lot of different modes of water baptism being practiced today. Some groups baptize by sprinkling, some by pouring, some by immersion, some face forward, etc. with no clear cut directions from the scripture on whether one is better than another.
3. We have clearly established the water baptism that John the Baptist was practicing, was one of repentance for sinners.
4. We have established that Jesus was not being baptized for any sins that he had committed, but to fulfill all righteousness.
5. We have established John’s water baptism had one purpose, and that purpose was to make Jesus known to Israel.
6. We have established that when the heavens opened; the spirit of God descended upon Jesus, God said from heaven this is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.
7. We have established that Jesus at this point was made manifest to the nation Israel. by the actions of the Living God, and thus proved him to be Israel’s promised Messiah.

Let us continue our study of God’s Holy Word as we add to the information we have gathered so far, as this will help us to arrive at a sound doctrinal position on the subject of water baptism in the near future.

In this lesson we will be looking at the Baptism of Saul/Paul, I would like to pick up with the lesson just after Jesus is Baptized.

John.1 [32] And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. [33] And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.

In the verses above we see John reinforce the fact that Jesus will not be baptizing with water, but will be baptizing with the Holy Ghost.

John.4 [1] When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, [2] (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) [3] He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee.

Here in John 4 we see another clarification to make it clear that Jesus himself did not baptize one person in water, that was John the Baptist’s instructions to baptize with water, not Jesus.

Now lets move to Saul’s baptism and conversion story. I want to start at Acts 2:38 as many people quote and use this verse as if it applies today. It is my opinion that it does not and was part of the program to the Nation Israel.

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

I have covered this in other lessons, but for the sake of clarification concerning Saul/Paul’s conversion and baptism I felt the need to repeat this information. Pay close attention to what and the order in what Peter is preaching. Repent - this was the first step; to repent of one’s sin, second step; be baptized in water in Jesus name for the remission of one’s sins, third step; receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

For the record Acts 2:38 was for Jews, who were part of the nation Israel, they were pork abstaining, temple worshipping, Mosaic Law keeping Jews! They were not Gentiles!

Acts.13 [9] Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,)…. The Apostle Paul was also known by the name Saul.

Acts.9 [1] And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, [2] And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

In Acts 9 verses 1 and 2 we get a clear picture of the attitude of Saul/Paul towards the disciples of the Lord, please pay close attention what his attitude was, as this is very important. Saul/Paul certainly doesn’t appear to be a repentant Jewish sinner who is interested in becoming a disciple of the Lord as had been the process repeated time after time up to this chapter in Acts.

Honestly does the words in verse 1 “yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter” give, or deserve any other interpretation than that of hatred, and a non-repentant heart, or attitude? In verse 2 we see this attitude drove Saul to get letters from the high priest giving him the authority in today’s words, arrest and drag up on charges anyone that believed in, and was following the Lord Jesus.

Acts.9  [3] And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: [4] And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? [5] And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. [6] And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Here we have the account of Saul meeting the Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus, who was “breathing out threatenings and slaughter” in verse 1. Then in verse 5 and 6 he is “trembling and astonished” when he comes face to face with the Lord Jesus.

I want to point out that at this meeting of Saul with the Lord Jesus, Jesus did not tell Saul to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Ghost remember this as it is an important point in Saul’s conversion.

Acts.9 [10] And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. [11] And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, [12] And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. [13] Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: [14] And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. [15] But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: [16] For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

In the verses above the Lord tells Ananias to go and meet with Saul and tell him what to do, which the Lord told Saul in verse 6 that he was to go into the city for further instructions. We see in verse 13 Ananias has heard all the bad things that Saul had done, and was aware Saul was there looking for all that call on the name of Jesus so he could bind them.

Now notice in verse 15 Jesus tells Ananias that Saul is “a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:” pay close attention to what Saul/Paul’s commission was going to be.

Now I must ask you, do you remember what Jesus told the 11 apostles in “Matt. 28 [19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:”, guess what this never happened, the apostles never fulfilled the supposed Great Commission. Then the Jews in Acts Chp. 7 with the killing of Stephen completed their total rejection of their God. They rejected God the Father, God the Son, and now with the killing of Stephen they rejected God the Holy Ghost in verses 54-53.

That is why God now saves Saul, who we now know as Paul the Apostle to the Gentiles. God starts a new program, called the dispensation of the Grace of God with the conversion of Saul. (Rom.11 [13] For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office:)

Please search and see if you can find one map, or any evidence, that the 11 apostles made any missionary journeys. If you look around you will find all kinds of maps of the missionary journeys of Paul, but none concerning the original 11 apostles. Truth is they got themselves killed before their assignment was completed.

Anyway back to Saul in the following verses we see Ananias completed his assignment, went to Saul laid his hands on him and immediately his eyes were opened, he was saved or received the gift of the Holy Ghost, and then last thing that happened he was baptized. Notice this is out of sync with Acts 2:38 wrong order.

Acts.9 [17] And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. [18] And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

We are very close in our study to having gathered enough information about the different types of baptism to present our case, and come to a final answer to water baptism, and its relationship to the Body of Christ and should we be practicing it today. 

In our next lesson we will be looking at the Apostle Paul’s attitude towards water baptism and spiritual baptism. Please look up all the verses concerning baptism in the Pauline epistles as this will greatly aid you in the next two lessons.

I believe if you fail to understand, or fail to learn how to rightly divide the word of truth, you can never come to the knowledge of the truth, and sound doctrine.

As we conclude another lesson, I hope you will go and study it out as we get ready for part five when we will look at Paul's Commission and his teaching on the subject of baptism.

As far as spiritual discernment, when you know where to get your doctrine from, you will no longer be a confused Christian, or an easy target by the sleight of men to deceive you.

Romans 10 [8] But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; [9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

The words of our Apostle Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles!

2Tim.2 [15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Come join with us as we study God’s Holy Word!

Remember most unsound Bible Doctrine, is sound Bible Doctrine misapplied to the wrong time period, or wrong group of people.

The next lesson is in work, and will be posted when done!  

Please Subscribe by email, and you will notified when new lessons are posted 

Remember if you like these lessons, don't just like them, share them!

Contact us at: biblerightlydivided@gmail.com

Lesson 3-16 Water Baptism? Part 3 The Baptism of Jesus

I have been asked to give my understanding on water baptism, its relationship to the Body of Christ, and should we be practicing it today?

As always I will be sharing the teachings and understanding as I believe the Lord Jesus has shown to me by study, and through the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

I never encourage anyone to believe anything that I believe, without them first studying it out for themselves. If they come to a different understanding than myself, that is ok, as there is liberty in the Lord for us to not see all things the same, at the same time.

Now as we continue this study of water baptism I will repeat the guidelines we are using, just in case this is the first lesson you read.  This will benefit all the readers such that each lesson can stand on its own merit.

Introduction: Guidelines for this study; 

1. We are treating the living words of the living God as spoken by the Lord Jesus and given to the Apostle Paul for the Body of Christ the same importance, as the words of the Lord Jesus recorded in red letters in the books of Matthew – Acts Chp. 8, as what should be known as the instructions to the nation Israel.
2. We will not be wresting the scriptures against each other, we will look at the verses in their context, and we will not try to make them say anything but what they say.
3. We will be using the verses out of the Authorized Version, commonly known as the KJV. It is fine if you want to look the verses up in other translations if you like, but we will consider the Authorized Version as our final written authority.
4. We will not be using the Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic, or Latin languages to prove any points, or give any indication that the Authorized Version has been incorrectly translated.

Different types of baptisms that are recorded in the scriptures and definitions. 

1. Water Baptism – The practice of the religious rite of sprinkling water onto a person's forehead, or of immersion of a person in water, or dipping a person in water, or pouring water on a persons head and body. (For this study the mode of water baptism is inconsequential, the fact water is involved is enough for our study)
2. Baptism of John – This is the practice of water baptism as performed by John the Baptist. (Matt. 3;11 Matt. 21;25 Mark 11;30 Luke 7;29 20;4 John 1;31 Acts 1;22 Acts 18;25 )
3. Baptism of Repentance – This also is water baptism as practiced by John and administered to sinners and publicans. (Matt. 3;6,11 Mark 1;4 Luke 3;3 Acts 13;24)
4. Baptism of the Holy Ghost – This is spiritual baptism with the Holy Ghost. (First mentioned by John the Baptist in reference to Jesus.) Pay attention and notice, John said that Jesus would be the one baptizing with the Holy Ghost, not water.) (Matt 3;11 Mark 1;8 Luke 3;16 John 1:33)
5. Baptism of Fire – Dictionary definition; an introductory or initial experience that is a severe ordeal, (this baptism is spiritual in nature and does not include any water). (Matt. 3;11)
6. Baptism of Moses – This applies to the nation of Israel who was baptized in the cloud and sea. (1^st Cor. 10;2) (This is an Old Testament event and happened when Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt.)
7. Baptism for the dead – vicarious baptism or proxy baptism today commonly refers to the religious practice of baptizing a person on behalf of one who is dead—a living person receiving the rite on behalf of a deceased person. Baptism for the dead is best known as a doctrine of the Latter Day Saint movement, which has practiced it since 1840. (For this study we will not be dealing with this subject I only include it so that you know I am aware of this practice. But to just so you know, I don’t believe that it was something Paul believed the Body of Christ was supposed to be performing. (1^st Cor. 15:29)

Now let's continue our study and see if we can determine with the help of the Holy Spirit the answers to, “The relationship of water baptism to the Body of Christ?” “Should the Body of Christ practice water baptism?” “What did Paul believe and teach concerning water baptism as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus?”.

I personally believe when we get to the end of this study, that we will with the help of the Holy Spirit have a clear understanding on the doctrine of water baptism, and the baptism of the Holy Ghost/Holy Spirit.

Now when we left off in the last lesson, we determined that the one, and only reason that John the Baptist was baptizing with water, was to make Jesus manifest to the Nation Israel. (Definition of manifest;   adjective clear or obvious to the eye or mind,  verb display or show by one's acts or appearance; demonstrate)

Now let’s look at the water baptism of Jesus, we find it recorded in the books Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John with varying degrees of information included in each book about John’s baptism of Jesus.

Matt 3 [1] In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,

[2] And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. [5] Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, [6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.[7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?[8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance: [11] I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

Repentance definition; the action or process of repenting especially for misdeeds or moral shortcomings.

In the verses above concerning the preaching of John the Baptist, we see that his baptism message was one of repentance, and dealt with people confessing their sins. Notice when the Pharisees and Sadducees showed up to his baptism, he calls them vipers, and tells them they need to bring forth works that show their sincerity of repentance.

Now when dealing with the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist, it is of uppermost importance to understand that John’s Baptism was for repentant sinners, and the purpose of his baptism was to make Jesus manifest to Israel!

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

Now we have recorded for us the discussion between John the Baptist, and Jesus, just prior to Jesus’s baptism with water. Jesus tells John, he wants him (John) to baptize him (Jesus), to which John replies that he needs Jesus to baptize him. “I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?”

The reason that John tells Jesus that he needs be baptized of him, is because he clearly stated that he was baptizing with water, but Jesus was going to be baptizing with the Holy Ghost and with fire.

John the Baptist recognized his need to be baptized with the Holy Ghost.

In the simplest of terms, when Jesus baptized with the Holy Ghost it was for salvation, and when Jesus baptized with fire it was for judgement.

As we continue to study this interaction between John and Jesus, Jesus tells John that he (John) has to baptize him (Jesus) so that they could fulfil all righteousness.

Now I want you to get this John’s baptism was for sinners, Jesus was not a sinner!

2nd Cor. 5 [19] To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. [20] Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. [21] For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Jesus did not submit to, nor was he baptized for any of his sins because he was without sin! 

Jesus was baptized for our sins! 

Col.2 [14] Blotting 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;

Jesus was fulfilling the Law by being baptized, so that when he died on that cruel cross he could say it was finished, and could offer salvation for all who would receive him. He accomplished everything needed to freely offer salvation, apart from any works, to everyone who would receive him!

Matt 3  [16] And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: [17] And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Mark 1 [9] And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. [10] And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:

Luke 3 [21] Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, [22] And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.

John 1 [28] These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. [29] The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. [30] This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. [31] And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. [32] And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. [33] And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.

In the verses above concerning Jesus, we now very clearly see that after Jesus was baptized, that the heavens opened, the Holy Ghost descends, God the Father speaks the words thou art my beloved Son. The purpose of John’s water baptism was fulfilled, with Jesus the Christ being made manifest to the nation of Israel! 

Summary of items from John’s Baptism of Jesus;

1. John recognizes Jesus as the “Lamb of God” as soon as he sees him.
2. John then tells Jesus, “I have need to be baptized of thee”, John feels he needs Jesus to baptize him, instead of him baptizing Jesus, as he is aware that Jesus is going to be baptizing with the Holy Ghost/ Holy Spirit.
3. Jesus then tells John, no deal you must baptize me with water so that we can “fulfil all righteousness”.
4. John tells the Pharisees and Sadducees that he is “baptizing with water” so that Jesus can “be made manifest to Israel”.
5. John baptizes Jesus in water, and the heavens open and “the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased”.

Now at this point we have established some very important Bible truths, which are often overlooked when people just read their Bible like a novel, instead of studying their Bible like the textbook it is, (authored and inspired by God, transcribed by man). 

1. We have learned there are a lot of different modes of water baptism being practiced today. Some groups baptize by sprinkling, some by pouring, some by immersion, some face forward, etc. with no clear cut directions from the scripture on whether one is better than another.
2. We have clearly established the water baptism that John the Baptist was practicing, was one of repentance for sinners.
3. We have established that Jesus was not being baptized for any sins that he had committed, but to fulfill all righteousness.
4. We have established John’s water baptism had one purpose, and that purpose was to make Jesus known to Israel.
5. We have established that when the heavens opened;
1. the spirit of God descended upon Jesus,
2. God said from heaven this is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased,
3. Jesus was certainly made manifest by these actions of the Living God, and is the promised Messiah.
6.  Jesus was now made manifest to the nation Israel!

As we continue our study of God’s Holy Word we will focus on the information we have gathered so far, as this will help us to arrive at a sound doctrinal position on the subject of water baptism in the near future.

Most of all we truly desire that the correct answer be understandable, defendable, and have the Holy Spirit bear witness that the answers are the true, and correct, interpretation.

I have come to understand all the confusion among Christianity/Christians today can be attributed to the fact that the church, the Body of Christ, does not recognize the separate, distinct, and unique apostleship, ministry, and message of Paul.

I believe if you fail to understand, or fail to learn how to rightly divide the word of truth, you can never come to the knowledge of the truth, and sound doctrine.

As we conclude another lesson, I hope you will go and study it out as we get ready for part four when we will look at the baptism of Paul and his teaching on the subject of water baptism.

As far as spiritual discernment, when you know where to get your doctrine from, you will no longer be a confused Christian, or an easy target by the sleight of men to deceive you.

Romans 10 [8] But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; [9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

The words of our Apostle Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles!

2Tim.2 [15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Come join with us as we study God’s Holy Word!

Remember most unsound Bible Doctrine, is sound Bible Doctrine misapplied to the wrong time period, or wrong group of people.

The next lesson is in work, and will be posted when done! 

Please Subscribe by email, and you will notified when new lessons are posted

Remember if you like these lessons, don't just like them, share them!

Contact us at: biblerightlydivided@gmail.com

Lesson 2-16 Water Baptism? Part 2 John The Baptist

I have been asked to give my understanding on water baptism, its relationship to the Body of Christ, and should we be practicing it today?

As always I will be sharing the teachings and understanding, as I believe the Lord Jesus has shown to me by study and through the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

I never encourage anyone to believe anything that I believe, without them first studying it out for themselves. If they come to a different understanding than myself, that is ok, as there is liberty in the Lord for us to not see all things the same, at the same time.

Now as we continue into this subject of water baptism I would like to repeat the guidelines we will be using for this study, just in case this is the first lesson you read.

Introduction: Guidelines for this study:

1. We are treating the living words of the living God as spoken by the Lord Jesus and given to the Apostle Paul for the Body of Christ the same importance, as the words of the Lord Jesus recorded in red letters in the books of Matthew – Acts Chp. 8, as what should be known as the instructions to the nation Israel.
2. We will not be wresting the scriptures against each other, we will look at the verses in their context, we will not try to make them say anything but what they say.
3. We will be using the verses out of the Authorized Version, commonly known as the KJV. It is fine if you want to look the verses up in other translations if you like, but we will consider the Authorized Version as our final written authority.
4. We will not be using the Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic, or Latin languages to prove any points, or give any indication that the Authorized Version has been incorrectly translated.

Different types of baptisms that are recorded in the scriptures and definitions.

1. Water Baptism – The practice of the religious rite of sprinkling water onto a person's forehead, or of immersion of a person in water, or dipping a person in water, or pouring water on a persons head and body. (For this study the mode of water baptism is inconsequential)
2. Baptism of John – This is the practice of water baptism as performed by John the Baptist. (Matt. 3;11 Matt. 21;25 Mark 11;30 Luke 7;29 20;4 John 1;31 Acts 1;22 Acts 18;25 )
3. Baptism of Repentance – This also is water baptism as practiced by John. (Matt. 3;11 Mark 1;4 Luke 3;3 Acts 13;24)
4. Baptism of the Holy Ghost – This is spiritual baptism with the Holy Ghost. (First mentioned by John the Baptist in reference to Jesus. Pay close attention and notice, John said that Jesus would be the one baptizing with the Holy Ghost, not water.) (Matt 3;11 Mark 1;8 Luke 3;16 John 1:33)
5. Baptism of the Fire – Dictionary definition; an introductory or initial experience that is a severe ordeal, (this baptism is spiritual in nature, and does not include any water, it is judgmental in its nature). (Matt. 3;11)
6. Baptism of Moses – This baptism applies to the nation of Israel, who was baptized in the cloud and sea. (1^st Cor. 10;2) (This is an Old Testament event and happened when Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt.)
7. Baptism for the dead – vicarious baptism or proxy baptism today commonly refers to the religious practice of baptizing a person on behalf of one who is dead—a living person receiving the rite on behalf of a deceased person. Baptism for the dead is best known as a doctrine of the Latter Day Saint movement, which has practiced it since 1840. For this study we will not be dealing with this subject I only include it so that you know I am aware of this practice. But just so you know, I don’t believe that it was something Paul believed the Body of Christ was supposed to be performing. (1^st Cor. 15:29)

Now in the first lesson, we learned that when it comes to water baptism, we came to the conclusion a lot of different modes of water baptism are being practiced today. Some groups baptize by sprinkling, some by pouring, some by immersion, some face forward, etc. (For this study the mode of water baptism is inconsequential, the fact water is involved is enough for our study)

We are gathering information, and putting it together, so we can continue our study to the end, and arrive with the doctrinally correct answer from God’s Holy Word on whether water baptism is for today. Or whether it like other spiritual items that belonged to the Nation Israel are currently on hold for a future time period.

Alright next up in the study is John the Baptist, let’s ask John why he was baptizing with water, as this will have a big bearing on our final answer to the questions concerning water baptism and it’s relationship to the Body of Christ.

You know what? Good news we don’t have to ask John why he was baptizing with water, the Pharisees asked him for us, while he was still alive and practicing water baptism. Lets go to the scriptures for his answer!

John 1 [24] And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. [25] And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? [26] John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; [27] He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose. [28] These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing. [29] The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. [30] This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. [31] And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.

Now the beautiful part of this for everyone involved in this study, is we can read God’s Holy Word and get the answer. John was baptizing with water so that Jesus, the promised messiah, foretold of in the Old Testament, would be made manifest to the Nation Israel. The nation of Israel referred to as his own, in John 1;11 rejected and crucified him.

John 1 [11] He (Jesus) came unto his own, and his own (Israel) received him not.

So I believe we should take this as our final answer, I cannot find anywhere that John’s practice of water baptism ever changed, or was for any other purpose than he stated in John 1:31 to make Jesus manifest or known to the nation Israel.

As we look at the subject of the relationship of water baptism to the Body of Christ, I must touch briefly on the subject of replacement theology, of which I reject.

What is replacement theology, well I will give you the dictionary definition.

Replacement theology, is a Christian theological view on the current status of the church in relation to the Jewish people and Judaism. It holds that the Christian Church has replaced the Israelites as God's chosen people and that the New Covenant has replaced or superseded the Mosaic covenant.

I believe the Body of Christ is part of the mystery program that was given to the Apostle Paul. The Body of Christ was hid or not known since the beginning of the world, is a separate organism made up of believers saved after Paul’s conversion.

One day the Body of Christ will be complete, then removed from planet Earth, at which time God’s prophetic program dealing with the nation Israel will resume, and all the Old Testament prophesies concerning the nation Israel will then be fulfilled.

I find no where in the scriptures where the current believers in the dispensation of the grace of God are part of those Old Testament prophesies.

Romans 16 [25] Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,

Not to belabor the point but something kept secret since the world began, means it was a secret, and no one but God knew it!

I have come to understand all the confusion among Christianity/Christians today can be attributed to the fact that the church, the Body of Christ, does not recognize the separate, distinct, and unique apostleship, ministry, and message of Paul.

I believe if you fail to understand, or fail to learn how to rightly divide the word of truth, you can never come to the knowledge of the truth, and sound doctrine.

I am going to conclude this lesson as there is much information given in this second lesson, I hope you will go and study it out, as we get ready for part three when we will look at the baptism of Jesus in depth.

As far as spiritual discernment, when you know where to get your doctrine from, you will not be an easy target for men trying to deceive you.

Romans 10 [8] But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; [9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

The words of our Apostle Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles!

2Tim.2 [15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Come join with us as we study God’s Holy Word!

Remember most unsound Bible Doctrine, is sound Bible Doctrine misapplied to the wrong time period, or wrong group of people.

The next lesson is in work, and will be posted when done!  

Please Subscribe by email, and you will notified when new lessons are posted 

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Lesson 1-16 Water Baptism? Part 1 Modes of

I have been asked to give my understanding on water baptism and its relationship to the Body of Christ. And should we be practicing it today?

As always I will be sharing the teachings and understanding as I believe the Lord Jesus has shown to me by study, and through the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

I never encourage anyone to believe anything that I believe without them first studying it out for themselves. If you come to a different understanding than myself, that is ok, as there is liberty in the Lord for us to not see all things the same, at the same time.

I have shared teachings that I came to understand very early in my Christian life, with some of my sisters and brothers in Christ who did not see or understand the same teachings as myself for 20 plus years.

True Story; 

I had been sharing with one of my fellow Christians for ~20 years that we get our doctrine for the Body of Christ from Paul’s epistles, and not the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, John and the first 8 chapters of Acts, which are for the nation Israel.

One night I had the privilege to teach the word at a Wednesday night Bible study where I made the comment “Matthew, Mark, Luke, John and the first 8 chapters of Acts are really Old Testament books and do not apply to the Body of Christ”. I kid you not, my fellow Christian yelled from the back of the room why didn’t you ever say it that way before.

My fellow Christian that night came to see the Bible rightly divided, although I had been sharing that same information for ~20 years with that person. It wasn’t until that night that the Holy Spirit enlightened their eyes to that truth.

I don’t know why and have no explanation as to why it took ~20 years for them to see it and why others see it right away, but I can tell you this when you see the word of truth rightly divided, it is impossible to study it any other way!

2Tim.2 [15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

As a baby Christian grows and even sometimes after we are mature Christians, we have to change our position on certain subjects as we study and grow in our understanding of the word of truth rightly divided.   

1Cor.3 [1] And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. [2] I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.

When we are babes in Christ, we need milk to grow and as we grow spiritually, we are weaned off the milk of the word, and move on to the meat of the word.

As a young Christian I was very fortunate to have had good teachers who taught me how to study and rightly divide the word of truth. When you rightly divide the word of truth not every verse in the Bible will apply to Christians today. Because we are living in the dispensation of the grace of God, as given to the Apostle Paul.

Rightly dividing the Bible simply means you are able to discern the instructions that apply to the Body of Christ today, versus the instructions given to the nation Israel (past, present, and future).

Eph.3 [2] If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to youward:

Col.1 [25] Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God;

As a teacher of God’s Holy Word, I will be presenting you with differing views and ask you, to ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten your eyes to the truth as we go along.

I will also be sharing things from my own life experiences that many of you will be able to relate to in your own life as we search the scriptures to determine whether these things are so.

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

Now lets start our study and see if we can determine with the help of the Holy Spirit the answer to the questions, “Is water baptism for today?” “Should the Body of Christ practice water baptism?” “What did Paul believe and teach concerning water baptism as an Apostle of the Lord Jesus?”.

I personally believe when we get to the end of this study, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, we will have a clear understanding of the doctrine of water baptism.

Introduction: Guidelines for this study:

1. We will treating the living words of the living God, as spoken by the Lord Jesus, and given to the Apostle Paul for the Body of Christ as having the same importance, as the words of the Lord Jesus recorded in red letters in the books of Matthew – Acts Chp. 8, as what should be known as the instructions to the nation Israel.
2. We will not be wresting the scriptures against each other, we will look at the verses in their context, and we will not try to make them say anything but what they say.
3. We will be using the verses out of the Authorized Version, commonly known as the KJV. It is fine if you want to look the verses up in other translations if you like, but we will consider the Authorized Version as our final written authority.
4. We will not be using the Greek, Hebrew, Aramaic, or Latin languages to prove any points, or give any indication that the Authorized Version has been incorrectly translated.

Different types of baptisms that are recorded in the scriptures and definitions.

1. Water Baptism – The practice of the religious rite of sprinkling water onto a person's forehead, or of immersion of a person in water, or dipping a person in water, or pouring water on a persons head and body.
2. Baptism of John – This is the practice of water baptism as performed by John the Baptist. (Matt. 3;11 Matt. 21;25 Mark 11;30 Luke 7;29 20;4 John 1;31 Acts 1;22 Acts 18;25 )
3. Baptism of Repentance – This also is water baptism as practiced by John. (Matt. 3;11 Mark 1;4 Luke 3;3 Acts 13;24)
4. Baptism of the Holy Ghost – This is spiritual baptism with the Holy Ghost. (First mentioned by John the Baptist in reference to Jesus. Pay attention and notice John said that Jesus would be the one baptizing with the Holy Ghost, not water.) (Matt 3;11 Mark 1;8 Luke 3;16 John 1:33)
5. Baptism of the Fire –  Dictionary definition; an introductory or initial experience that is a severe ordeal, (this baptism is spiritual in nature and does not include any water, it is judgmental in its nature). (Matt. 3;11)
6. Baptism of Moses – This applies to the nation of Israel who was baptized in the cloud and sea. (1^st Cor. 10;2) (This is an Old Testament event and happened when Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt.)
7. Baptism for the dead – vicarious baptism or proxy baptism today commonly refers to the religious practice of baptizing a person on behalf of one who is dead—a living person receiving the rite on behalf of a deceased person. Baptism for the dead is best known as a doctrine of the Latter Day Saint movement, which has practiced it since 1840. (For this study we will not be dealing with this subject, I only include it so that you know I am aware of this practice. I don’t believe it was something Paul believed the Body of Christ was supposed to be performing. (1^st Cor. 15:29)

First up let us look at one of the commands that Jesus gave to the 11 Apostles. At this time Jesus was talking to only 11 of them, (see Matt. 28 verse 16). Judas Iscariot had already hanged himself, and a replacement apostle had not yet been chosen.

Matt. 28 [19] Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:  [20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Verse 19 & 20 has come to be known as the Great Commission, the majority of Christian religious systems have laid claim to these verses, and use them as their marching orders to preach, and take their particular beliefs into the world.

Of course there is little agreement among the different Christian organizations on exactly what teachings they are to be communicating to the world, other than baptizing them in water, but after that, whatever particular belief each denomination or non-denominational group holds in highest regard is what they teach.

Funny thing is, in my 42 years as a Christian, I have discovered these Christian organizations are not even consistent when it comes to the first one “baptizing them in water”.

Let me share with you, the following experiences that I personally have had, and take this section to introduce you to the some of the many different modes of water baptism.

I want you to know I am not making fun of these Christians at all, but I think this is one of  the best ways to teach you how to compare, spiritual things with spiritual, and exercise your spiritual discernment. 

1Cor.2 [13] Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. [14] But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

When I was a child, I was in a denomination that utilized sprinkling with water on the top of the head for baptism.

Later on I was associated with a denomination that believed you had to be fully immersed in the water in order to be properly baptized.

The next denomination I was introduced to believed that just being fully immersed was not good enough, but you had to be fully immersed in the water by one of their church elders, or you would die and go to hell. 

Next I ran into a group that  believed, if you had been fully immersed in the water, but the preacher baptized you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, instead of just using the phrase “in the name of Jesus” your baptism didn't count, and it would have to be redone if you wanted them to accept you as a real believer.

Just one more, I had a person tell me that their denomination baptized their new converts by full immersion, three times face forward, when I asked why, I was told Jesus never did anything backwards.

We see in the Old Testament when the Lord Jesus gave the Nation Israel instructions on how to perform animal sacrifices, they were clear, step by step instructions, so the people would not have any problem following them. 

Personally, I think if the mode of water baptism had been as important as people try to make it out to be, that the Lord Jesus would have provided clear, and specific instructions on how this water baptism was to be accomplished.

There also is subset of water baptism: infant baptism, teenager baptism, re-baptism after someone has been a really bad person.

Also re-baptism if you try and join a different Christian group with a different name than the one you previously were associated with. This new Christian group will want to make sure you have submitted to their particular way of baptizing, and these groups get real serious over who, how, and when a person was baptized.

This lesson is the first of several that will deal with baptism so I encourage you to get an Authorized Bible (KJV) and look up all the places the word baptism appears as it will aid in our upcoming studies on this subject.

We are more dedicated than ever to help people understand Pauline doctrine for the body of Christ, and to help young Christians grow and be built up in their faith, and to equip them to win others to the Lord Jesus.

Hopefully this study and the future studies will provoke you to become a more dedicated, and consecrated Christian, who will study and become a strong witness for the Lord Jesus in this upcoming year.

I encourage you to not just mention that Jesus was born, but share with your friends, loved ones, and anyone else that you come in contact with that Jesus died for their sins, was buried, and rose again and in Jesus they can have eternal life.

Romans 10 [8] But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; [9] That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. [10] For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

The Bible is an easy book to understand when you just read, and believe it, not try and make it say things it doesn’t say.

As far as spiritual discernment, when you know where to get your doctrine from, you will not be an easy target for men trying to deceive you.

The words of our Apostle Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles!

2Tim.2 [15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Come join with us as we study God’s Holy Word!

Remember most unsound Bible Doctrine, is sound Bible Doctrine misapplied to the wrong time period, or wrong group of people.

The next lesson is in work, and will be posted when done!  

Please Subscribe by email, and you will notified when new lessons are posted 

Remember if you like these lessons, don't just like them, share them!

Contact us at: biblerightlydivided@gmail.com