Saving Faith, UPCI Tract

Is one saved by faith alone, or by faith and obedience?

Someone who makes a thorough study of God's plan of salvation from sin will be convinced that salvation comes through faith. Paul made this plain by saying, "For by grace are ye saved, through faith: and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8). But what is saving faith? Is man passive in regeneration, as some affirm? Does mentally believing in Jesus Christ, and doing nothing else, bring salvation?

Faith Makes Salvation Possible

For an answer to the foregoing vital questions let us read John 1:12: "But as many as received him to them gave he power [literally, the privilege or right] to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." According to this verse believing on Christ makes it possible for a person to become a son of God. Such faith alone does not save him; rather it places salvation within his reach. Clearly, if he does not believe on the name of Jesus Christ or in the plan of salvation He has provided, he will not take the steps necessary to be saved.

How Faith Saved Noah

"By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house… and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith" Hebrews 11:7). How believed, first of all, that a destructive flood was coming, though he had never seen such. He further believed that if he would be delivered. His faith, then, led him to meet God's conditions, and he was saved.

In like manner, faith saves the sinner. Of course, he must first accept what Christ did for him at Calvary, for upon this expiatory sacrifice the whole plan of salvation is based. But the sinner's faith in what Christ did-his belief in the promise of salvation if and when he meets the terms of the gospel-leads him to obedience, and this obedient faith brings salvation.

How a Jailer Was Saved

Those who affirm that salvation comes through mental faith along, that the sinner need do nothing but accept Christ and what He did on Calvary, are prone to quote Paul's words to the Philippian jailer: "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house" (Acts 16:31). The implications is that all the jailer did to be saved was to believe on Jesus Christ. But proponents of this theory fail to quote verse 32, which reads, "And they spake unto him the word of the Lord." This "word" certainly included the doctrine of water baptism, for verse 33 states that the jailer and his family were baptized. And, since repentance is to precede water baptism, there is no doubt that they also repented. Then in verse 34, the jailer received an experience that caused him to rejoice.

How them, did this jailer's faith bring him salvation? It did so by leading him to meet the conditions of the gospel. Faith and obedience worked together, and he was saved.

Confession Must Accompany Fait

Romans 10:9-10 says, "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. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." The work unto is from the original eis, and means "for the purpose of." According to this passage, there is definite connection between confession and salvation. And confession is an act, over and above simple faith in the mind.

Prayer Must Accompany Faith

Continuing his teaching concerning salvation, Paul said, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Romans 10:13). Of course, a person can call upon the Lord form his heart, without physical effort. But the phrase "call upon," usually implies the use of the voice, or vocal prayer. And any use of the voice in prater is an act, in addition to faith.

Togo further, we are taught in God's Word that a person receives the Holy Spirit by faith (Galatians 3:2, 14). But does this gift come through faith without any action? Some affirm that it does, giving as their reason that it is not proper to ask anyone for a gift already promised. But Christ's words disprove this idea. "If ye then, being evil, know hoe to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" (Luke 11:13).

Faith and Obedience

What part, then, does faith play in receiving salvation? A person must believe in Christ's sacrifice and in the availability of the gift of salvation. His faith must motivate him to obey the scriptural command to repent, be baptized in Jesus' name and receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). He must believe that if he will repent and ask in prayer then he will receive the Spirit. His faith leads to obedience and thence to receiving the Spirit and the fulness of salvation.

There is no contradiction between Ephesians 2:8, which says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith," and James 2:24, which declares, "By works a man is justified, and not by faith only." The latter statement is certainly true when "works" means acts of obedience to the terms of the gospel. Only those who have "the obedience of faith" -those who obey the doctrine, obey the gospel, obey Christ-will be saved. (See Romans 6:17 10:16, 16:26; Hebrews 5:9).

Saving faith leads a person to obey the gospel, and such obedient faith brings salvation.

http://www.apostolic.net/articles/tracts/44-oldies-but-goodies/72-saving-faith

Contending for Modesty UPCI Tract

We are living in a time of moral confusion, and our generation's immorality is reflected in many of today's styles. Today's fashion industry has little regard for modesty, and its products often project a look that is inappropriate for someone who wants to mirror Christ.

The marvelous grace of God in our hearts compels us to reflect His holiness in the part of our being that other people see. When a person becomes a Christian, his experience changes every facet his life-not just the inward person but the outward person as well.

A Biblical Principles

The Bible instructs us to wear modest clothing, that is, clothing with a godly appearance. Of course, our outward appearance cannot substitute for inward holiness. Adam and Eve covered themselves with fig leaves after they sinned, but God found their efforts inadequate. By making clothing of animal skins for them, He confirmed that they indeed needed modest clothing, but He also revealed that holiness in appearance must be associated with God's provision for our sins. Only by the death of Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, do we obtain the righteousness of God that we seek to reflect outwardly.

God instructed Israel's high priest to wear "holy garments," for he represented a holy God (Exodus 28:2). God also ordered the priests to wear clothing that covered their nakedness and forbad elevated altars upon which priests would walk and thereby expose their nakedness (Exodus 20:26; 28:42).

Deuteronomy 22:5 enunciates the moral principle of a clear distinction between male and female in outward appearance: one sex must not wear styles of clothing associated with the other.

Proverbs 7:10 speaks of a woman with "the attire associated with sin and are not suitable for godly people to wear.

The principle that God wants His people to reflect His holiness applies to the New Testament church (I Peter 1:15-16). We are called to be living epistles read of all people, declaring to the world God's holy nature and His abiding presence (II Corinthians 3:3). Our outward appearance is one way in which we are an unspoken witness of the transforming power of Christ.

I Timothy 2:9 admonishes "that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamedfacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array." I Peter 3:3 gives similar instructions.

I Corinthians 11:1-16 teaches that a woman should have long hair, for it is her glory, and that a man should not have long hair. A person's hair serves as an important visible symbol of his or her submission to God's plan of authority and as a distinguishing mark between the sexes.

Revelation 16:15 uses clothing as a symbol to instruct the church to stay close to God: "Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame."

Clearly, God puts emphasis on the outward appearance of a person. To an extent, clothing reflects the condition of the heart, and it sends message to others about a person's values.

A Response to God's Grace

Advocating modesty of dress and outward dedication does not mean advocating salvation by works. Wearing godly dress is not a meritorious work to earn salvation; rather, it is a response to the saving grace of God. The blood of Jesus is our only righteousness. Our salvation comes from God, never from our good works. To think that we could earn His marvelous grace by adhering to dress codes would be a terrible mistake.

But to accept the grace of God and then be indifferent to Christ's commandment for holy living would discredit His mercy. If the church preaches Christ and His saving grace without teaching biblical guidelines to live by, it leaves people open to confusion and failure. Deliberate and continuous disobedience to God's Word will lead to the loss of saving faith.

Who can view the Cross without wanting to conform to Christ? Who would want to continue his or her old sinful patterns of living when Jesus Christ died to bring deliverance from those sins? When people comprehend His holiness, they desire to become holy. While it is true that genuine love for Him restrains a person from presuming upon His marvelous grace.

In our success-oriented society, no one considers it odd if a corporation requires its employees to conform to a dress code. Why then should a church that teaches neatness and modesty for the purpose of honoring the holiness of God be considered narrow, restrictive, or legalistic?

If we are to honor God in our hearts, it is consistent to honor Him with an outward dedication. I John 2:15 instructs us, "Love not the world", surely, then, we would be foolish to mirror worldly values in our appearance.

The Protection of Modesty

Adhering to a modest, godly standard of dress and conduct offers protection from the surge of immorality that plagues our generation. Clothes and appearance transmit nonverbal signals. Christians who verbalize goodness and godliness but at the same time non verbally declare sensuality and ungodliness destroy the effectiveness of their gospel witness.

The primary purpose of many fashion designs is to exalt the ego, attract undue attention to the flesh, stir desires, and ignite passion in others, thereby appealing to the lust, of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, which the Bible condemns (I John 2:16). If we are in such styles and with such motives.

We must not naively ignore the complex causes of immorality and marital infidelity, but neither should we ignore the influence that sensual dress has on adultery and fornication. If a man looks with lust upon a women he commits adultery in his heart (Matthew 5:28). If people would dress in ways that do not provoke lust, the moral fiber of our society would be strengthened.

The danger of overemphasizing any discipline in the Christian life is that some people allow the discipline to become a legalistic code. Some people who harbor unholy attitudes such as hatred, bitterness, envy, and strife falsely think they are spiritual because they wear modest clothes.

Such distortions are hypocritical and wrong. But we cannot dismiss the need for modesty in dress because some distort it. The biblical alternative to legalism is not permissiveness or license but self-discipline motivated by grace, faith, love, the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit. (See John 14:15; I Corinthians 9:24-27; II Timothy 2:4-5; I John 2:3-6.)

For the sake of our children, we must teach them to respect the holiness of God in all areas of life. Allowing or encouraging preteens and teenagers to dress in many of today's fashions is an invitation to social and spiritual problems.

A dress code will not automatically remedy the decaying moral fiber among youth, but it does remind them of God's commandments. We must begin somewhere to teach children and youth moral responsibility, and standards of modesty in dress offer us this opportunity.

When we honor God and His Word in our hearts and in our outward appearance, He places an umbrella of protection over our families. While moral decay sweeps modern society and many modern churches, we are able to remain relatively untouched. The world may scoff at our modesty, but we dare not lay down our cloak of protection and our obedience to the Word of God.

Last Updated (Thursday, 08 October 2009 17:12)

http://www.apostolic.net/articles/tracts/44-oldies-but-goodies/74-contending-for-modesty

The Way We Worship UPCI Tract

Biblical expressions of Worship

If you have never had the opportunity to be in a Spirit-filled service before, you will discover that biblical expressions of worship are still practiced today. Join in with us as we praise God together in spirit and in truth.

WE PRAY TOGETHER ALOUD because

In the Bible we read, "They lifted up their voice to God with one accord."-Acts 4:24

WE LIFT OUR HANDS IN PRAISE because

In the Bible we read, "Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord."-Psalm 134:2

WE SING WITH ALL HEARTS because

In the Bible we read, "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise."-Psalm 98:4

WE PLAY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS because

In the Bible we read, "And all the house of Israel played before the LORD on all manner of instruments."-II Samuel 6:5

WE CLAP AND SHOUT UNTO GOD because

In the Bible we read, "O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph."-Psalm 47:1

WE DANCE BEFORE THE LORD because

In the bible we read, "Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs."-Psalm 150:4

WE TESTIFY PUBLICLY because

In the bible we read, "I will declare thy name unto my brethren; in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee."-Psalm 22:22

WE ANOINT WITH OIL FOR DIVINE HEALING because

In the Bible we read, "Is any sick among you? let him call for the elder of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord."-James 5:14

WE ALLOW THE OPERATION OF THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS because

In the Bible we read, "When ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation."-I Corinthians 14:26

What We Mean When We Say.... UPCI Tract

Here are a few terms and expressions that are often heard in our services. We try to use these terms and expressions as the Bible uses them. Our hope is that this information will be helpful as you worship God with us.

Amen. A Hebrew exclamation meaning "so be it," "truly," or "indeed!" It is often used to conclude prayers or to express approval or agreement with someone has said or done. (See Deuteronomy 27:15; Revelations 22:20; I Corinthian 14:16-17.)

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Baptism. Literally, the act of dipping or washing something completely in liquid. Scriptural baptism is a vital part of New Testament salvation. (See Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:27; I Peter 3:21.) it includes:

1. Water (Acts 8:36)

2. Much water (John 3:23)

3. Going down into the water (Acts 8:38)

4. Burial in water (Colossians 2:12)

5. Coming up out of the water (Acts 8:39)

6. A name pronounced (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38)

Taking all of this information together, scriptural baptism is total immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ. Matthew 28:19 commands us to baptize in a name but does not give the name. It refers to the "name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." The terms Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are titles of positions held by God, but they are not proper names. Jesus is the only name the is connected with salvation (Matthew 1:21; Acts 4:12). Acts 2:38 records the apostles' fulfillment of the command of Matthew 28:19 and gives the scriptural formula for baptism in the New Testament church: "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins."

Baptism of the Holy Ghost. Literally, being dipped, plunged, or immerse in the Spirit of God. The baptism of the Holy Ghost is the birth of the Spirit and thus is a vital part of entrance into the kingdom of God. (See John 3:5.) The initial evidence of the baptism of the Spirit is speaking in other tongues (languages) as the Spirit of God gives utterance. (See Acts 2:4.)

Joel and Isaiah both prophesied this experience (Isaiah 28:11-12; Joel 2:28-29). It was foretold by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:11), purchased by the blood of Jesus, and promised by Him to His followers (John 14:26; 15:26). The Holy Ghost was first poured out on the Day of Pentecost on the Jews (Acts 2:1-41). Later Samaritans receive this experience (Acts 8:17), and the Gentiles (Acts 10:44-46; 19:6).

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Born Again. To start over, to begin life with a fresh start. Jesus used this expression to describe what takes place through faith in Him when a person is baptized in water in His name and receives the Holy Ghost (birth of water and of Spirit). (See John 3:1-8; Acts 2:38.) According to Jesus, without this fresh start no one can enter into the kingdom of God.

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Christ. A Greek word meaning "the Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew word Messiah. New Testament believers use it exclusively to refer to Jesus Christ of Nazareth, who fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah and became our Savior.

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Christian. A description of believers in Jesus Christ that means "like Christ" or "belonging to Christ." it describes the object of our faith and loyalty, the One with whom we want to be identified. it is not intended to be an exclusive or sectarian term. (See Acts 11:26; I Peter 4:12-16.)

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Deliverance. Being set free from something that has one bound. Jesus promised deliverance as a part of His Messianic work (Luke 4:18).

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Disciple. A follower or a student; in our case, we have voluntarily chosen to become a follower of Jesus and adhere to His teaching. A disciple learns from his teacher, obeys his teacher, seeks to become like his teacher, and endeavors to spread the teacher's message to others. (See Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 14:27; John 15:1-8.)

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Divine Healing. The divine intervation of God to cure sickness of body and mind. Divine healing was purchased for us by the blood of Jesus that flowed from His stripes (Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 8:16-17; I Peter 2:24). Jesus went everywhere healing those who were sick (Matthew 4:23-24), and He commanded His disciples to do the same (Matthew 10:8). He said concerning those whobelieve the gospel, "They shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" (Mark 16:18) Mighty healings and miracle followed the disciples wherever the gospel was preached. Healing is available to us today (James 5:14-16).

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Fellowship. Based on a biblical term meaning to share or have in common; similar to our concept of close friendship. Fellowship is linked in Scripture with love, compassion, a willingness to bear one another's burdens and to do whatever is possible to help and encourage. (See Acts 2:42-47; Philippians 2:1-11.)

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Godhead. The divine essence; deity; the fullness of God's character and attributes. The bible teaches that there is one God (Deuteronomy 6:4). He is Spirit (John 4:24), and He has manifested Himself in flesh as Jesus Christ (I Timothy 3:16). He now baptizes us with His Spirit so that we can be the children of God.

Hallelujah. A Hebrew word meaning "praise the Lord" or "praise Jehovah" (Psalms 150:1,6).

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Holliness. Separation from sin and dedication to God. When we come to the Lord we are to forsaken sin (John 8:11). We are to "live righteously. and godly, inthis present world" (Titus2:12). Without holliness no one shall see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). We must present ourselves as holy unto God (Romans 12:1), cleansed ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit (II Corinthian 7:1), and separate ourselves from all worldliness (James 4:4). The Scripture is clear that no one can live a holy life by his own power, but only through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8; Romans 8:4).

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Jehovah. The personal name of Almighty God in the Old Testament. The exact meaning is debated, but is related to the Hebrew phrase "I AM." As such, it reveals God's self-existence and lack of dependence on anything or anyone else. (See Exodus 3:13-15; Deuteronomy 6:4-5; John 8:54-59).

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Jesus. It is a name that literally means "Jehovah Savior," "Jehovah saves," or "Jehovah has become our salvation." In the New Testament it is the supreme name by which God revealed Himself when He came in flesh. It is "the only name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). Paul commanded, "Whatsoever you do in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Colossians 3:17).

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Lord's Supper. The practice of eating bread and drinking the fruit of the vine together as an act of worship and remebrance. Jesus began the practice at His last supper with His disciples. It is a time to remember what Jesus has done for us, to examine our own lives and faith, and to recommit ourselves to Jesus in greater faithfulness. It is also called communion (from a term meaning to share together). It is to be observed as often as each individual church deems appropriate, but it must not be ignored. (See Matthew 26:17-30; I Corinthian 11:17-34.)

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Offering. The voluntary collection of monetary gifts to support the work of the church and various ministries-locally, nationally, and internationally. Properly viewed, the offering is an expression of love and gratitude for the blessings of God. (See I Corinthian 16:1-2; II Corinthian 9:6-9.)

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Pastor. Literally, one who tends or shepherds a flock. The pastor is the shepherd of the local part of God's flock (Ephesians 4:11).

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Pentecostal. An adjective used to describe those who have receive the same experience that the followers of Jesus did on the Day of Pentecost. (See Acts 2:1-4.)

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Praise. To speak or sing or make other expressions extolling, admiring, or commending greatness and goodness of God. We typically lift our voices in praise to God, and sometimes we lift our hands in gesture of surrender to Him. (See Psalms 100:4; 147:1; Ephesians 5:19-20; Hebrews 13:15; Colossians 3:15-17.)

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Prayer. Speaking to or communicating with God. We response to God's invitation to bring Him our praise and gratitude as well as our concerns and needs. According to Jesus, prayer is like a child coming to a loving father. For prayer to be effective we must pray in faith and sincerity and not merely memorized words. (See Matthew 6:5-15; James 5:13-18.)

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Rapture. Literally, a "catching away." In our context it refers to the time when the Lord will come back for His church. The church will be caught up to meet him in the air (I Thessalonians 4:16-17).

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Repentance. A change of mind that brings about a change of behavior. It is the first step in the three-point plan that Peter gave when sinners asked at the close of his message on the Day of Pentecost, "What shall we do?" Repentance is a turn away from sin, a death to sin. By repentance we identify with the death of the Lord. (See Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38; 17:30; Roman 6:1-2; II Peter 3:9.)

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Salvation. Deliverance from sin and unrighteousness through the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord, which we receive by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). The gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (I Corinthian 15:1-4). When we truly believe the gospel, we will obey the gospel and apply it to our lives. (See Romans 16:26; II Thessalonians 1:8.) We die with Him in repentance. We buried with Him in Baptism. We are resurrected with Him to walk in newness of life by receiving the Spirit. Full salvation consists of repentance, baptism in Jesus' name, and baptism of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1-7).

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Tithes. A biblical word meaning a tenth. We support God's ordained ministry and work and by giving a tenth of our income. (See Malachi 3:10; I Corinthian 16:2.)

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Tongues. Speaking in tongues means speaking miraculously in a language unknown to the speaker. It occurs as the Spirit give utterance (Acts 2:4), not by human learning or imitation. There are two major functions of speaking in tongues in the New Testament church:

1. Speaking in tongues is the manifestation Gad has given as the definite, indisputable, supernatural witness or sign of the baptism of the Holy Ghost. (See Acts 2:1-4; 10:44-46; 19:6.) Isaiah Prophesied that it would accompany the rest and refreshing (Isaiah 28:11-12), and Jesus foretold it as a sign that would follow believers of the gospel (Mark 16:17). Jews and Gentiles alike both receive this experience.

2. Speaking in tongues is also a gift to believers after the initial baptism of the Holy Ghost (I Corinthians 12:1-10). Paul gave regulations for the use of tongues in public worship (I Corinthians 14:1-40). He explained that tongues is given both for self-edification (I Corinthians 14:4 and for the edification of the church (I Corinthians 14:27-28).

In church meetings the gift of tongues is used to give a public message, which is meant to be interpreted (the gift of interpretation is another gift of the Spirit). Since the possibility for misuse exists, this gift needs proper regulation (I Corinthian 14:23-28). Not all believers have the gift of tongues for public use, which is different in function from the tongues that are the initial evidence of the Holy Ghost baptism. (I Corinthians 14:18,39).

Why Did God Choose Tongues? UPCI Tract

He was a deacon in a fashionable church, but he did not believe in the Pentecostal doctrine relative to the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Yet he had been exposed to that belief through members of his immediate family. One night, at the close of an Evangelistic service in an Apostolic church, he went forward to pray and was overwhelmingly filled with the Spirit of God. He spoke in other tongues fluently and was so inundated in the Spirit that even hours later he could not speak English. Definitely, this was a biblical experience accompanied not only by speaking in another tongue, but also by the joy and peace of the Holy Ghost.

Millions have experienced this same baptism in the Spirit. Wherever this message is proclaimed, the question is asked, "Why did God choose speaking in tongues as the initial, physical evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost?" There may be many answers to this question, and perhaps we do not know them all. Several key points are apparent, however.

The Sovereignty of God

First, we must recognize that God is not accountable to us for what He chooses to do. Isaiah asked, "Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or being his counsellor hath taught him? With whom took he counsel, and who instructed him, and taught him in the path of judgment, and taught him knowledge, and shewed to him the way of understanding?" (Isaiah 40:13-14). We have no license to question God's ways or to dispute His actions. His purposes are supreme, His promises sure, His performances sane and sensible. The following passages of Scripture, when studied prayerfully with a hungry heart and an open mind, show that there is a definite connection between speaking in tongues and the baptism of the Holy Ghost: Isaiah 28:11-12; Mark 16:17; Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:6; Romans 8:15-16; Galatians 4:6.

Why did God choose blood as the basis for atonement? Why did God choose water as the element in baptism? Why did God choose gold as the overlaying metal for the ark of the covenant? Why did God choose stone as the material upon which to record the Ten Commandments? Why did God choose Jerusalem as the site for the Temple? Why did God choose dust out of which to form mankind? There is divine purpose behind these choices, although we may not understand all the reasons. We certainly cannot deny or disavow God's sovereign right to do as He pleases and to choose what He wishes.

An Immediate, External Evidence

One vital reason why God chose other tongues as the initial sign of receiving the Holy Ghost is that speaking in tongues is an immediate, external evidence. There are many other evidences of the operation of the Spirit of God in a person's life, but it is a matter of time before they are manifest. For example, the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23 follows in the wake of the spiritual infilling.

Peter and the six Jewish Christians who went with him to Caesarea knew that the Gentiles had received the Holy Ghost, not because of longsuffering, gentleness, meekness, or temperance, but because they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God (Acts 10:46). Peter specifically pointed to speaking in tongues as the irrefutable evidence (Acts 10:46-47).

Speaking in tongues is an outward, external evidence, instantly observable and heard. By contrast, peace, joy, righteousness, and spiritual fruit are inward, internal results of the infilling that become evident with the passing of time.

A Uniform Evidence

Another reason why God chose other tongues as the initial sign of receiving the Spirit is that speaking in tongues is a uniform evidence. It applies to everyone, regardless of race, culture, or language.

Some people quote I Corinthians 12:30 in an attempt to prove that not all speak in tongues when they are filled with the Spirit: "Do all speak with tongues?" However, this verse refers to the gift of tongues, that is, speaking a public message in tongues to be interpreted for the congregation, which is a spiritual gift that a person may exercise subsequent to the infilling of the Spirit. Though both tongues as the inital evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost and tongues as a later spiritual gift are the same in essence, they are different in administration and operation. For example, the regulations regarding the gift of tongues in I Corinthians 14:27-28 did not apply to the conversion accounts in Acts, where many people spoke in tongues simultaneously, without interpretation, as the sign of being filled with the Spirit.

Some people may question this distinction between the initial use of tongues at the baptism of the Holy Ghost and the later use of tongues as a spiritual gift in a Christian's life. But the same distinction is apparent with regard to faith. To be saved, everyone must have faith (John 3:16; Romans 10:9; Ephesians 2:8). Yet I Corinthians 12:9 reveals that there is a special, supernatural gift of faith that can operate in a Spirit-filled person's life over and beyond the faith necessary for salvation. Saving faith and the spiritual gift of faith are the same in essence but different in administration and operation.

In speaking about the birth of the Spirit, Jesus emphasized the uniformity of the experience: "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit" (John 3:8). Moreover, Jesus placed emphasis upon the accompanying sound, not on sight or feeling. The sound of the wind blowing is evidence of its presence.

Some people conclude that Jesus referred only to "the sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind" on the Day of Pentecost. But this sound of wind is never mentioned again in the later accounts of receiving the Holy Ghost, while speaking in tongues is. Speaking in tongues by itself caused the Jewish Christians to recognize that the experience of the Gentiles at Caesarea was identical to theirs on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 10:44-47; 11:15-17). Hence, the important, conclusive evidence of the Spirit's manifestation at Pentecost was speaking in other tongues. The sound of wind was impersonal, but the speaking was personal. Speaking in tongues was the first evidence of each individual infilling.

At Caesarea all who heard the Word were filled, and all who heard the Word spoke in tongues. If some of them had not spoken in tongues, would the Jewish Christians have accepted their experiences? Clearly not. All twelve men mentioned in Acts 19:6 had a uniform experience. If ten of the twelve had spoken in tongues and the other two had not, would Paul have believed that the two had received the Holy Ghost just as the ten? Certainly not. Paul would not have accepted their experience if they have failed to exhibit the uniform evidence.

A Symbol of Complete Control

Speaking in tongues symbolizes God's complete control of the believer. Perhaps this is one of the strongest reasons why God chose speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost. This symbolism becomes apparent when we study James 3, which provides more information on the tongue than any other chapter in the New Testament.

First, the tongue is capable of defiling the whole body. If so, is it incredible to claim that the tongue is also capable of symbolizing the sanctification of the whole body?

Second, though the tongue is a smaller member, it has never been tamed by humanity. It is the most unruly member of the body. If so, is it not necessary for the tongue to be tamed before the whole body can be consecrated to God? James illustrates the importance of the tongue by comparing it to the bit in a horse's mouth, which gives the rider complete control over the horse, and to the helm of a large ship, which gives the pilot full command of the vessel. In other words, whoever controls the tongue of a person controls him. And a person cannot tame his tongue by himself; only God can tame it for him.

According to Matthew 12:29, before someone can enter a strong man's house and plunder his goods, he must first bind the strong man. The strong man of our house is the tongue. We can tame every member of the body but this one. When God tames a person's tongue, that person comes under God's full control. He is in the hands of the Almighty. He has been conquered by Christ, endued with a spiritual force from on high, and empowered for God's service.

Humanity's Greatest Expression

The tongue provides the greatest expressions of the human spirit. We humans are spiritual and emotional beings, and as such we must give expression to our emotions. The ability and power to coordinate thought and tongue into intelligent speech is one of our highest prerogatives, elevating us above the beasts of the field. This ability makes us superior to the rest of God's creation on earth, and it is the most distinguishing feature of our being.

The tongue becomes the vehicle of expression for the spirit. All of the emotions--such as love, hate, anger, sorrow, joy, happiness, relief, serenity--are communicated through the tongue. The tongue is the gate way to the heart, feelings, attitudes, and spirit.

Conclusion

In light of these truths, it is not difficult to see why God has chosen speaking in tongues to express the greatest, most wonderful experience that we mortal humans can receive. In the baptism of the Holy Ghost, His Spirit and our spirit become one. He uses our tongue and voice to express this union. It is a wonder of wonders, chosen not by humans, but by God, the sovereign ruler of the universe.

Why fight against Him? Believe His Word, accept what He says, and you too can be baptized with the Holy Ghost, for God will give the Holy Spirit to all who repent and ask in faith (Luke 11:13; Acts 2:38-39).

Last Updated (Thursday, 08 October 2009 15:14)

http://www.apostolic.net/articles/tracts/44-oldies-but-goodies/67-tract-why-did-god-choose-tongues-

Why We Baptize in Jesus' Name UPCI Tract

The subject of water baptism has long been called a great issue and no doubt has been made much by many church leaders of the past and present. In our study of it, let us first consider its importance, or the necessity of being baptized.

The Importance of Water Baptism

Christian water baptism is an ordinance instituted by Jesus Christ. If it is not important in the plan of God, why did Jesus command it in Matthew 28:19? And why did Peter follow up by saying, "Be baptized every one of you," and by commanding the Gentiles to be baptized (Acts 2:38; 10:48)? We must remember two points about the importance of water baptism. First whatever Christ definitely established and ordained cannot be unimportant, whether we understand its significance or not. Second, Christ and the apostles showed the importance of this ordinance by observing it. Jesus walked may miles to be baptized, though he was without sin, saying, "For thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness" (See Matthew 3:13-16).

It is true that water itself does not contain any saving virtue, but God has chosen to include it in His plan of salvation. Peter explained, "Baptism doth also now save us (not putting away the of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (I Peter 3:21). According to Luke 7:30, "the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized."

The Mode of Baptism

According to the Scriptures, the proper mode of baptism is immersion. "And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water" (Matthew 3:16). "And they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him' (Acts 8:38). "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death" (Romans 6:4). A corpse is not buried by placing it on top of the ground and sprinkling a little soil on it, but by covering it completely.

According to the World Book Encyclopedia, "At first all baptism was by complete immersion" (vol. 1, p. 651). And the Catholic Encyclopedia states, "In the early centuries, all were baptized by immersion in streams, pools and baptisteries" (vol. 2, p. 263). Immersion was not convenient after the Catholic church instituted infant baptism; thus the mode was changed to sprinkling. (See Encyclopedia Britannica, 11th ed, vol. 3, pp. 365-66)

Repentance identifies us with the death of Christ, and baptism identifies us with His burial. Coming for from the watery grave of baptism and receiving new life in the Holy Spirit identifies us with His resurrection.

The Formula for Baptism

Jesus commanded His disciples to "teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." (Matthew 28:19). He did not commend them to use these words as a formula, but He commanded them to baptize in "the name". The word name is used here in the singular, and it is the focal point of the baptismal command. The titles father, Son, and Holy Ghost describe God's relationships to humanity and are not the supreme, saving name described here, which is Jesus. "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).

Jesus is the name in which the roles of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are revealed. The angel of the Lord instructed Joseph, "She shall bring forth a son and thou shall call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Jesus said, "I am come in my Father's name," and, "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, . . . the Father will send in my name" (John 5:43; 14:26). Thus by baptizing in the name of Jesus, we honor the Godhead. "For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9). Luke 24:45-47 records that just before His ascension Jesus opened the disciples understanding. It was necessary that their understanding be opened, and many today need this same operation in order to understand the scriptures.

Then Jesus said to them, "Thus it is written, and it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day." The disciples had their understanding opened so that they could grasp the vast importance of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Verse 47 describes the commission that Jesus then gave: "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations (Jews and Gentiles), beginning at Jerusalem."

Peter was one of that number to whom Jesus had spoken and whose understanding had been opened. After having listened to these instructions, a few days later he was inspired by the Holy Ghost to preach on the Day of Pentecost. The hearts of the hearers were pierced and feeling condemned, they cried out to Peter and the other apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" (Acts 2:37). Peter did not hesitate but boldly answered. "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall received the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38). "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized, and the same day they were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:41).

Some say that Peter told them to be baptized in Jesus' name because they were Jews and this baptism was to make them acknowledge Jesus Christ. But let us go with Peter to the house of Cornelius several years later. Cornelius and his household were Gentiles, yet there again Peter "commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord" (Acts 10:48). (Most translations actually say, "In the name of Jesus Christ.") If Peter was wrong on the Day of Pentecost, he surely had ample time to be corrected before he went to the house of Cornelius. Was Peter wrong on the Day of Pentecost? When the hearers were pricked in their hearts, they spoke to Peter and the rest of the apostles (Acts 2:37). This included Matthew, who wrote Matthew 28:19. Moreover, when Peter preached, he stood up with the eleven (Acts 2:14).

Matthew was there, yet we find no words of correction from him. He surely would have spoken up if Peter had disobeyed the Lord. Bit all the apostles understood and carried out the Lord's commission. As Jesus said in a prayer, "I have manifested thy name unto the men (the apostles) which thou gavest me out of the world . . . and they have kept thy word" (John 17:6). The Samaritans, who were not Jews, were also baptized in the name of Jesus. "Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them . . . .But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. . . .They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 8:5,12,16).

Let us see how Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, baptized. He went to Ephesus many years after the Day of Pentecost and found some disciples of John the Baptist there. "He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 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, 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 19:2-5).

Although these disciples had already been baptized, the name of Jesus was so important as to cause them to be rebaptized in His name. We do not believe that Paul changed the formula or mode of baptism when he baptized Lydia and her household (Acts 16:14-15) or the Philippian jailer. The latter came trembling and fell down before Paul and Silas, saying, "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 he took them the same hour of the night (shortly after midnight), and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway" (Acts 16:30-33).

How can we doubt that Paul baptized these people using the same mode and formula that he used elsewhere, that is, immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ? Paul was not with the apostles when Jesus gave His final instructions to them in Matthew 28:19 and Luke 24:47, yet Paul baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. How did he know what to do? He said that his gospel was not a tradition of men but a revelation from God. "I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it from of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ" (Galatians 1:11-12). Paul was chosen to bear Jesus' name to the Gentiles, and he wrote many divinely inspired epistles to the church. To this apostle, God revealed the mystery of the church, "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" (Ephesians 3:5). Paul claimed to have divine authority: "If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord" (I Corinthians 14:37). And Paul wrote, "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). Water baptism is done both in word and deed.

We cannot afford to overlook this command to the church. The church is "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone." (Ephesians 2:20). The apostles not only preached baptism in Jesus' name, but they practiced it. Nowhere can we find that they baptized using the words "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." Instead, we find them baptizing in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. In baptizing in Jesus' name, they fulfilled the command of the Lord in Matthew 28:19. Paul said, "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed" (Galatians 1:8). Let this be a solemn warning to us. Some say that they will accept the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:19 but not those of Peter in Acts 2:38. But Peter spoke on the Day of Pentecost under the anointing of the Holy Ghost. Peter was one of the apostles, and to him had been given the keys of the kingdom, so we have no right to discredit his words.

In Mark 7:8 Jesus said, "Laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men." History tells us that it was not until many years after the apostles that the mode and formula of baptism in the name of Jesus Christ were changed. (See Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible, vol. 1, p. 241.) Which means more to you, the command of the Lord or the tradition of men?

Last Updated (Thursday, 08 October 2009 15:07)

http://www.apostolic.net/articles/tracts/44-oldies-but-goodies/66-why-we-baptize-in-jesus-name

The Scriptural Teaching on Hair UPCI Tract

Is it possible that the length of a person's hair could have anything to do with pleasing God? Such an idea may at first seem strange. But before the question is dismissed, it would be wise to consider two statements of Scripture: "If a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him… If a woman have long hair, it is her glory: for her hair given her a covering (I Corinthian 11:14-15).

In the bible, divinely appointed symbols represent holy things. The night Jesus was betrayed, for example, He gave His disciples bread to eat and a cup to drink. The bread, He said, represented His body, and the cup, His blood (I Corinthian 11:23-25). While the bread and cup are symbols only, they things they represent are so holy that those who do not properly respect them are "guilty of the body and blood of the Lord" (I Corinthians 11:27).

God has chosen for the length of people's hair to symbolize their relationship to Him and to the authority He has placed over them. This truth is presented in I Corinthian 11:3-16.

The Principle of Authority

The subject of I Corinthian 11:3-16 is authority: "The head of every man is Christ: and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God" (Verse 3). This verse introduces and provides the basis for the following discussion about covering head" (verse 4). Christ is man's head. It is therefore Christ who is dishonored if a man prays or prophesies with a covered head.

"But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven" (Verse 5). The man (husband or father) is the head of the woman (wife or daughter). It is therefore the man who is dishonored if a woman prays or prophesies with an uncovered head. This dishonor is the same as if her head were shaven.

Not only is it a shame if the woman is shaven, but it is equally a shame if she is shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered" (verse 6). The word "shorn" is simply the past participle of "shear" which means "to cut." This is the meaning of the Greek word keiro, from which "shorn" is translated.

Spiritual Significance

What is the theological basis of this teaching? "For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of man" (verse 7). God has chosen that a man's uncovered head reflects His image and glory in man; woman's covered head reflects the glory of the man.

This reflected glory is based on the order of creation. "For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man. Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man" (verse 8-9). That these things are important even in the spiritual realm is revealed in the next statement: "For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels" (verse 10). Angels are spirits. It is not just in the physical realm that the authority represented by the length of hair is important: even angels take note of a person's obedience or disobedience in this matter.

After establishing divine order of creation and of authority, this passage affirms that the man and the woman are equally important to each other and equal value in the kingdom of God (verse 11-12).

The Covering

The inspired Apostle Paul believed the church at Corinth would naturally understand the validity of his teaching on this subject: "Judge in yourself: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered?" (Verse 13). He did not think this should be a surprise to Christians, for the lesson of a clear distinction between male and female in this matter is deeply rooted even in nature: "Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for covering"(Verse 14-15).

The words "have long hair" in these verse are translated from the Greek word komao, which means "to let the hair grow." The word "hair" in verse 15 in the phrase "her hair is given her for a covering" is translated from the Greek kome, which refers to uncut hair. This further explains verse 6, which declares it to be a shame is a woman's hair is shorn (cut) or shaven. Her long, uncut hair is a glory to her, for it illustrates her loving submission to her husband or father.

On the other hand, it is a shame for a man if he allows his hair to grow uncut. For a man to cut his hair reflects his submission to Christ; uncut hair on a man symbolizes rebellion against Christ.

The covering mentioned in this passage is the woman's uncut hair. Verse 15 is the only place the word "covering," a noun, appears in the passage. Previously, the words "uncovered" and "covered" appear. These two words are adjectives; they do not specifically says, "Her hair is given for a covering."

The word "for" is translated form the Greek anti, which means "against" or "instead of". Here the Bible itself declares that a woman's long, uncut hair is given to her instead of (for) a covering, and this is the inspired explanation of verse 5 and 6.

Thus, if a woman cuts or shaves the hair on her head, it is in the eyes of God a shameful dishonor of her father or husband. If a man allows his hair to grow long, it is a shameful dishonor of Christ.

Contention

The passage concludes, "But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God" (verse 16).

Contention is always the result of pride (Proverbs 13:10). If any man proudly argued against this teaching, he needed to realize that none of the churches of God had a custom allowing men to pray or prophecy with their heads covered with long, uncut hair. Nor did they permit woman to pray or prophesy unless their heads covered with long, uncut hair.

Conclusion

The sincere person who wishes to please God will want to obey His Word in every respect. He will partake of the bread and cup of the Lord's Supper with the greatest of reverence, because these symbols represent the body and blood of Christ (verse 20). And a man will cut his hair, while a woman will allow hers to grow, because these symbols represent their relationship to God and to God-given authority.

Grace + 0 = Salvation UPCI Tract

In an editorial one minister declared, "There is nothing that can be added to bring salvation to a soul. "Grace," he wrote, "wrought salvation with no strings attached." Another minister stated. "Grace plus nothing equal salvation."Is this biblical? Have these ministers gone farther than the Scriptures go? Must not the recipient of salvation take some corresponding action in response to grace? If there is nothing that one can do, or if no response is necessary, what about the scriptural passages that call for action?

When guilty sinners asked, "Men and brethren what shall we do?" the Apostle Peter replied, "Repent . . ." (Acts 2:37-38). When Saul of Tarsus inquired, "Lord, what wilt thou have me do?" the Lord answered, "Go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do" (Acts 9:6). After a devastating earthquake, while springing into the crumbled ruins of the prison in an attempt to take his own life, the Philippian jailer heard the voice of Paul call out, "Do thyself no harm, for we are all here." He was sure his prisoners would be gone. When he discovered them yet present, he turned to Paul and Silas and cried out, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" Their answer was, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved and thy house" (Acts 16:25-31).

In each of these scriptural incidents, action was demanded of the inquirer. The first was, "Repent"; the second, "Go; the third, "Believe." All three called for action of the will. A command was issued in each instance. It was not Grace plus nothing equals salvation." It was grace plus faith plus obedience equals salvation"! Or "Grace plus obedient faith equals salvation."

Grace is God's Act

Grace is the unmerited, undeserved favor of God bestowed on a person through the atoning sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace is the source of salvation. Grace means that God initiates salvation. It includes every act on God's part that brought salvation to mankind. God's grace caused Him to manifest Himself in flesh as Jesus Christ, assume limitations, freely give Himself on Calvary and arise on the third day for our justification.

God Alone is the Source of Salvation

Salvation was initiated in heaven as God's plan. Man was not counseled concerning it. In fact, man had nothing to do with its institution other than being the object of it!

"God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life" (John 3:16).

"God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us. . ." (Ephesians 2:4).

"For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich" (II Corinthians 8:9).

From these verses the role of grace in salvation is evident---grace initiates salvation.

Faith and Obedience are Man's Response

Faith takes God's grace, mercy and kindness and appropriates it to an individual's own life. "For by grace are ye saved through faith" (Ephesians 2:8).

Faith is the agency in the heart of a man that receives the message of God's great grace, applies grace to his own condition, and sees a way out of his lost state. In other words, faith appropriates salvation.

Finally, obedience steps upon the scene and becomes the active agent, motivating one to act on what grace has provided and faith appropriated. Actually we can view obedience as included in true biblical faith and not something apart from it. Since many people think of faith as merely mental assent, we must stress that saving faith does involve obedience. At least nineteen passages in the New Testament adjure obedience to salvation. In short, obedience activates salvation.

"And we are witnesses of these things; and so also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey Him." (Acts 5:32).

"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 unto you." (Romans 6:17).

"He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him" (Hebrews 5:9).

The truth about salvation can be illustrated by a checking account. The account in the bank is the source of money and corresponds to grace. The act of cashing the check represents obedience.

Let us suppose someone wants to give you a gift of $1,000. He writes a check for that amount and instructs you to cash it. It is yours; you have the check in your hands. But the money is still in the bank and not in your hands until you cash the check.

Your act of cashing the check is the required obedience, and this obedient response is needed if you are to enjoy the benefits of the bank account and check. If you do not act, the bank retains the money in the donor's account and you do not get it! So it is with God. The donor is God, the check is faith, and obedience cashes the check.

The doctrine referred to in Romans 6:17 is experienced earlier in that chapter. Romans 5:20-21 depicts the wonderful grace of God that always abounds more than sin and leads to eternal life. Then Romans 6:1-7 describes the means by which grace is applied. Specifically, the Roman Christians died to sin, were baptized into Jesus Christ, thereby being baptized into His death and being buried with Him in baptism, and arose to walk in newness of life.

In other words, they obeyed the command to repent, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and receive the Holy Spirit. This experience identified them with Christ's death, burial and resurrection, thereby bringing to them the abounding grace of God's provision. Their obedience, which was faith in action, was the channel through which they received God's grace.

No, it is not "Grace + 0 = Salvation." Rather, "Grace + Faith + Obedience = Salvation." If a person does not obey, then he does not truly believe, and if he does not believe then he has not received the grace of God. Acts 2:41 depicts the proper attitude that we must have towards the revelation of God's grace: "Then they that gladly received His word were baptized: and the same day were added unto them about three thousand souls."

After hearing about the grace of God, the crowd believed by receiving Peter's word and immediately obeyed by being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Likewise Saul immediately obeyed when Ananias told him what to do (Acts 9:17-18;22:16), and the Philippian jailer obeyed after Paul and Silas had explained the way of salvation to him (Acts 16:31-34).

Obedience is the criterion of faith. We must respond in obedient faith to receive the grace of God in our lives. We must not be misled into thinking that no response on our part is necessary for us to be saved. We must obey God's word. We must believe and obey the message preached by the apostles and received by the crowd on the Day of Pentecost: "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38).

The Gift of the Holy Spirit UPCI Tract

The gift of the Holy Spirit has become the topic of much discussion in our day. Men and women of all persuasions and from all walks of life have become interested enough to search for greater understanding of this phenomenal spiritual experience. Capturing headlines, dominating the content of many religious periodicals, and generally creating excitement, this canon of apostolic faith deserves a sincere appraisal.

The Facts

The Holy Spirit is God. "God is a Spirit" (John 4:24). "There is… one Spirit" (Ephesians 4:4). To become a subject in the kingdom of God, Jesus said a person must be "born again," or "born of water and of the Spirit" (John 3:3-5). The birth of the Spirit and the baptism of the Spirit are synonymous terms. The Apostle Peter understood this truth as he spoke to the multitude in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost: "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38).

This experience was received by the Jews on Pentecost (Acts 2:1-40, the Samaritans (Acts 8:15-17), and the Gentiles (Acts 10:44-48), plainly indicating that it was meant for all people regardless of race, creed, color, or station in life. The new birth, consisting of water and Spirit, was never set forth as being optional or unessential. "Ye must be born again" are the words of Jesus in John 3:7. Until a person is born of the Spirit, he cannot be called a "son " of God.

The Privilege

But why concentrate only on the absoluteness of the command? It is a blessed privilege to experience a release of spirit, finding freedom of soul and expression in the baptism of the Holy Spirit. There is no other experience similar to it. "Incomparable" is the only adequate description of this filling. The transition is to an entirely new realm and way of life. A complete transformation takes place. The soul has an empty place "in the shape of God" that nothing else will fit or satisfy. The baptism of the Spirit completely satisfies every longing of the soul. In this experience is fulfillment.

The Evidence

There are two major evidences of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The initial, outward evidence is speaking with tongues, which means speaking miraculously in languages the speaker does not know.

Speaking with other tongues has been connected with Spirit baptism since the beginning of the church age. On the birthday of the New Testament church, the Day of Pentecost after Christ's ascension, approximately 120 disciples of Christ were inundated by the Spirit of God and "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:1-4). The household of an Italian centurion received the same spiritual experience, which the Jewish Christian onlookers readily identified, "for they heard them speak with tongues" (Acts 10:44-48). In Acts 19:1-6, a group of John the Baptist's disciples heard about the Holy Ghost from the Apostle Paul; they too were filled with the Spirit, "and they spake with tongues."

We cannot adequately express with our own words the ecstasy experienced in the baptism of the Spirit. Only through unaccustomed words of heavenly coherence can we utter what our souls would express.

There are perhaps several other reasons why God chose speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of this spiritual baptism. It is an objective, external evidence that recipients and onlookers can both identify with certainty (Acts 10:46). It is a uniform evidence-all the disciples on Pentecost, all the household of Cornelius, and all the believers in Ephesus spoke in tongues. "So is everyone that is born of the spirit" are the words of Jesus in his description of this spiritual new birth (John 3:8). Speaking in tongues is the most unruly member of the body (James 3:8), and its being tamed by God is evidence of His complete control.

Further evidence of the Spirit's abiding presence in our lives is the fruit of the Spirit, which Paul mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."

The Promise

Was the baptism of the Holy Spirit for the apostles or early disciples only? Is it today available to only a select few who are "superspiritual"?

The obvious answer to these questions is no. The Apostle Peter made it every plain in his message on the Day of Pentecost that the gift of the Holy Ghost is for everyone: For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call" (Acts 2:39). (See Luke 11:13). Our faith, obedience, and submission to the Lord Jesus and His gospel qualify us for this most joyous of all experiences. (See Acts 5:32; 11:15-17.) As Isaiah 12:3 states, "With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation."

Seek Him Today, for "he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6). "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters" (Isaiah 55:1). This means you!

Last Updated (Thursday, 08 October 2009 17:34)

http://www.apostolic.net/articles/tracts/44-oldies-but-goodies/77-the-gift-of-the-holy-spirit

Divine Healing UPCI Tract

God is the Great Physician. His knowledge of the human mind and body is complete. He can do more for the sick and diseased that can all earthly doctors and surgeons combined. He created us: is it not reasonable, then, to believe that He can heal us when we are sick?

The Provision of Healing

Christ's suffering and death purchased healing for us-physically, mentally, and spiritually. "Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows…With his stripes we are healed" (Isaiah 53:4-5). This promise definitely includes physical healing, for the Gospel of Matthew says this passage was fulfilled by Christ's healing of people who were sick: "He cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that were sick: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses" (Matthew 8:16-17). (See also I Peter 2:24).

The healing ministry of Christ did not end with His earthly life; it is part of His work in the church today. He promised, "These signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils… they shall pay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" (Mark 16:17-18). Listed among the gifts of the Spirit for the present-day church are "the gifts of healing" (I Corinthians 12:9).

James 5:14-15 presents God's plan for divine healing: "Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up." Laying on of hands and anointing with oil usually accompany prayer for healing, in accordance with God's Word and to focus faith.

Faith in the Lord is the key to receiving healing. The Gospels record that Jesus healed people according to their faith. (See Matthew 9:29; 13:58; Mark 2:5; 5:34, 36; 9:23-24; 10:52.) By the power of God the Apostle Paul was able to raise up a lame man at Lystra because he perceived that the man had faith to be healed (Acts 14:8-10).

Prayer for healing, like all prayer, must be offered by faith in the name of Jesus, with proper motives, from a repentant heart, and in submission to the will of God (Acts 3:16; James 4:3, I John 3:21-22; 5:14-15). God does not always answer in the manner and time that we expect, but we must always keep our trusts in Him, even when we do not understand circumstances. Moreover, whatever healing or release from handicaps and weaknesses that Christians to not receive in this life, they will obtain in the resurrection, for their mortal bodies will be glorified and given immortality, and death itself shall be destroyed (I Corinthians 15:26, 49-57).

Healing in Bible Times

God gave the first recorded promise of divine healing soon after He brought the Israelites out of Egypt. He told them, "I am the LORD that healeth thee" (Exodus 15:26). Psalm 103:3 describes God as the One "who healeth all thy diseases."

The Old Testament records a number of miracles of healing and even raising of the dead. For example, God used the prophet Elijah to restore a dead child to life (I Kings 17:22). Through the prophet Elisha He raised a child to life and brought cleansing to Naaman the leper (II Kings 4:32-35; 5:1-14). God healed King Hezekiah in response to his prayer and added fifteen years to his life (II Kings 20:5).

The New Testament records many healings in the earthly ministry of Jesus, and He performed many that are not individually recorded. "Jesus went about all Galilee….healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people" (Matthew 4:23). He gave sight to the blind, unstopped deaf ears, cleansed lepers, made the lame to walk, and raised the dead (Matthew 11:4-5).

After Christ's ascension, He continued His ministry of healing through His apostles and other disciples. Working through Peter and John, He healed a lame man who had never walked (Acts 3:6-8). Many miracles occurred in Stephen's ministry, and many people were healed during Philip's revival in Samaria (Acts 6:8; 8-7). Through God's power, Peter raised Dorcas from the dead (Acts 9:36_42). And God worked special miracles of healing in the ministry of Paul (Acts 19:11-12).

Comparatively few healings of that time were recorded, for Acts 5:16 states, "There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed wit unclean spirits: and they were healed every one."

God Heals Today

God still heals today. Many contemporary instances are documented in two books published by Word Aflame Press:Miracles in Our Day and God Answers Prayer. These examples demonstrate that God's promise of healing is still being fulfilled.

The good that medical doctors and medicines do is to be appreciated, for God is the ultimate source of all healing. It is He who has given doctors skill and intelligence, and it is He who created the substances from which medicines are extracted or manufactured.

Doctors and medicines, however, can only assist the human body in renewing the natural healing power invested in it by the Creator. Even when a person receives medical assistance, he can still look to God for divine healing. God can heal with medical help, but He also can and often does heal miraculously without any human assistance.

Many people in our churches can testify to being miraculously healed by God. And what God has done for others, He will do for you. Whatever your sickness or disease. He can make you whole. Look to Him today for your healing.

The Apostles' Doctrine UPCI Tract

The Bible

The Bible is the inspired Word of God, giving a true history of the creation of heaven, earth, and humanity and containing a correct prophecy of the ages to come regarding heaven, earth, and the destiny of humanity. Moreover, there is no salvation outside of what is taught in its pages.

God

There is only one God (Deuteronomy 6:4). He is the Creator of heaven and earth, and of all living beings. He has revealed Himself to humanity as the Father (Creator), in the Son (Savior), and as the Holy Ghost (indwelling Spirit).

Father

God is a Spirit (John 4:24). He is the Eternal One, the Creator of all things, and the Father of all humanity by creation.

He is the First and the Last, and beside Him there is no God (Isaiah 44:6).

There was no God formed before Him; neither shall there be after Him (Isaiah 43:10).

Son

Jesus is the Son of God according to the flesh (Romans 1:3) and the very God Himself according to the Spirit (Matthew 1 :23). Jesus is the Christ (Matthew 16:16); the Creator of all things (Colossians 1:16-17); God with us (Matthew 1:23); God made flesh (John 1:1-14); God manifested in the flesh (I Timothy 3:16; He which was, which is, and which is to come, the Almighty (Revelation 1:8); the mighty God, everlasting Father, and Prince of peace (Isaiah 9:6).

Jesus Himself testified of His identity as God when He said, "He that hath seen me hath seen the Father" (John 14:7-11) and "I and my Father are one" (John 10:30).

It took shedding of blood for the remission of the sins of the world (Hebrews 9:22), but God the Father was a Spirit and had no blood to shed. Thus He prepared a body of flesh and blood (Hebrews 10:5) and came to earth as a man in order to save us for in Isaiah 43:11 He said, "Beside me there is no Saviour." When He came in flesh the angels sang, "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11).

Holy Ghost

The Holy Ghost is not a third person in the Godhead, but rather the Spirit of God (the Creator), the Spirit of the resurrected Christ. The Holy Ghost comes to dwell in the hearts and lives of everyone who believes and obeys the gospel, as the Comforter, Sustainer, and Keeper (John 14:16-26; Romans 8:9-11).

Sin

Sin is the transgression of the law, or commandments of God (I John 3:4). The guilt of sin has fallen upon all humanity from Adam until now (Romans 3:23). The wages of sin is eternal death (Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:14) to all those who refuse to accept salvation as set forth in the Word of God.

Salvation

Salvation consists of deliverance from all sin and unrighteousness through the blood of Jesus Christ. The New Testament experience of salvation consists of repentance from sin, water baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the baptism of the Holy Ghost, after which the Christian is to live a godly life (Acts 2:36-41).

Water Baptism

Water baptism is an essential part of New Testament salvation and not merely a symbolic ritual. It is part of entering into the kingdom of God (God’s church, the bride of Christ), and therefore, it is not merely a part of local church membership. (See John 3:5; Galatians 3:27.)

Mode of Baptism

Water baptism is to be administered only by immersion. Paul said, "We are buried with him [Jesus Christ] by baptism (Romans 6:4 see Colossians 2:12), Jesus came up "out of the water" (Mark1:10), and Philip and the eunuch went down "into the water" and came up "out of the water" (Acts 8:38-39).

Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection are applied to our lives when we experience New Testament salvation: "Repent [death to sin], and be baptized [burial] 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 [resurrection]." (See Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1-7; 8:2.)

Sprinkling, pouring, or infant baptism of any kind cannot be substantiated by the Word of God, but are only human traditions.

Formula for Water Baptism

The name in which baptism is administered is vitally important, and this name is Jesus.

Jesus’ last command to His disciples was, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19). We should notice that He said name (singular) not names’,. As previously explained, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are not names of separate persons, but titles of positions held by God. An angelic announcement revealed God’s saving name in the New Testament: "She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew1:21).

The apostles understood that Jesus was the name to use at baptism, and from the day that the church of God was established (the Day of Pentecost) until the end of their ministry, they baptized all nations (Jews-Acts 2:38-41; Samaritans-Acts 8:16 Gentiles-Acts 19:5) in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

In fact, Jesus is the only name given for our salvation. "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).

Baptism of the Holy Ghost

The baptism of the Holy Ghost is the birth of the Spirit (John 3:5). This spiritual baptism is necessary to put someone into the kingdom of God (God’s church, the bride of Christ) and is evidenced by speaking in other tongues (other languages) as the Spirit of God give utterance.

It was prophesied by Joel (Joel 2:28-29) and Isaiah (Isaiah 28:11), foretold by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:11), purchased by the blood of Jesus, and promised by Him to His disciples (John 14:26; 15:26). The Holy Ghost was first poured out on the Day of Pentecost upon the Jews (Acts 2:1-4), then upon the Samaritans (Acts 8:17), and later upon the Gentiles (Acts 10:44-46;19:6). "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).

Tongues

Speaking in tongues means speaking miraculously in a language unknown to the speaker, as the Spirit gives utterance. Tongues can be classified in two ways, according to function:

(1) speaking in other tongues as the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost and (2) the gift of tongues as mentioned in I Corinthians.

1. Speaking in other tongues as the Spirit of God gives utterance is the manifestation God has given as the definite, indisputable, supernatural witness or sign of the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:6).

It was prophesied by the prophet Isaiah as the rest and the refreshing (Isaiah 28:11-12), foretold by Jesus as a sign that would follow believers of the gospel (Mark 16:17), and experienced by Jews and Gentiles alike.

2. The gift of "divers kinds of tongues," mentioned by Paul in I Corinthians 12:1-10 and concerning which he gave regulations in I Corinthians 14:1-40, is given both for self-edification (I Corinthians 14:4) and for the edification of the church (I Corinthians 14:27-28).

In church meetings the gift of tongues is used to give a public message, and it is to be interpreted. Since this gift can be misused in public, it needs proper regulation (I Corinthians 14:23-28). Not all believers exercise the gift of tongues, which is different in function from tongues given by God as the initial witness of the baptism of the Holy Ghost.

Paul said, "Forbid not to speak with tongues" (I Corinthians 14:39) and "I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all" (I Corinthians 14:18). Who dares to teach or preach to the contrary?

Holiness

After we are saved from sin, we are commanded, "Go, and sin no more (John 8:11).

We are commanded to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world (Titus 2:12) and warned that without holiness no one shall see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14).

We must present ourselves as holy unto God (Romans 12:1), cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit (II Corinthians 7:1), and separate ourselves from all worldliness (James 4:4).

If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? (I Peter 4:18).

No one can live a holy life by his own power, but only through the Holy Spirit. "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you" (Acts 1:8).

Divine Healing

God has made Himself known through the ages by miraculous healings and has made special provisions in the age of grace to heal all who will come to Him in faith and obedience. Divine healing was purchased for us by the blood of Jesus Christ, especially by His stripes (Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 8:16-17; I Peter 2:24).

Jesus went everywhere healing those who were sick (Matthew 4:23-24), and He commanded His disciples to do the same (Matthew 10:8). He said concerning those who believe the gospel, "They shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" (Mark 16:18). Mighty healings and miracles followed the disciples where ever the gospel was preached.

There is no sickness or disease too hard for God. Any of us, our children, or our friends can he healed by the power of God.

"Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders (if the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up): and if he have committed sins they shall he forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed" (‘James 5:14-16).

Second Coming of Christ

Jesus Christ is coming back to earth in bodily form, just as He went away (Acts 1:11). He will catch away a holy people (His bride, His church) who have accepted redemption through His blood, by birth of water and of the Spirit, and who are found faithful when He comes.

"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever he with the Lord" (I Thessalonians 4:16-17).

"One shall be taken and the other left" (Luke I 7:36). Will we be ready?

The signs of His coming are everywhere. The days of peril are here indeed, with forms of godliness void of the power of God; society and politics corrupted; and people’s hearts filled with pride, blasphemies, unholiness, love of evil, and love of pleasures (II Timothy 3:1-13). These things, together with multitudes running to and fro, the increase of knowledge (Daniel 12:4), the persecution of the Jews and their return to Palestine (Luke 21:24), and scores of other things are startling signs that Jesus’ coming is drawing near.

Wars, rumors of wars, famines, earthquakes, storms, floods, distress of nations, perplexity, and people’s hearts failing them for fear are sounding the solemn alarm that Jesus’ coming is at hand (Matthew 24:6; Luke 21:25-28).

"Prepare to meet thy God" (Amos 4:12).

Resurrection

There will be a resurrection of all the dead, both just and unjust.

"Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation" (John 5:28-29).

"And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God ....and the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them" (Revelation 20:12-13). (See also Daniel 12:2; I Corinthians 15:13-23.)

Judgment

"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). For this reason there will be a resurrection for everyone. "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad" (II Corinthians 5:10).

The eternal destiny of every soul shall be determined by a just God who knows the secrets of everyone’s heart. "And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. . . .Then shall he also say unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels. .

And these shall go away into everlasting punishment; but the righteous into life eternal" (Matthew 25:32-34, 41, 46).

The law-the Word of God

The judge- the righteous God

To be judged-our souls

What will the sentence be?

Life's opportunities past!

Reaping day at last!

Two verdicts pend:

Life or death!

"Choose you this day whom ye will serve" (Joshua 24:15).

The following references show plainly that speaking in tongues as the evidence of the Holy Ghost has been given by God to earnest, God-fearing people down through the years.

Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, vol.3, page 2369, "Tongues, Gift of": "A phenomenon of the Apostolic age, technically known as the ‘glossolalia.’ In later time analogies have been found for it in the ‘speaking in tongues’ of the Camisards, Prophets of the Cevennes, Early Quakers and Methodists, ‘Lasare’ in Sweden (1841-1843), converts in the Irish revival of 1859, and particularly in the Catholic Apostolic (Irv-ingite) Church."

Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, vol.2, page 1119, "Irving, Edward": "In 1830 the news was spread abroad of the strange speaking with tongues which occurred in widely separated parts of Scotland. In 1831 prophecy and tongues appeared in Irving’s church and Irving fell in with the movement, heartily convinced of its spiritual basis and divine authority."

Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, vol.1, page 422,’ ‘Catholic Apostolic Church": ‘Pious Presbyterian men and women believed that their organs of speech were used by the Holy Spirit for the utterance of His thoughts and attentions.’’

Encyclopedia Britannica, New Werner Edition, vol.4, page 749, "Camisards": "Speaking in tongues, accompanied by all kinds of miracles, was common among the Camisards and Cevennes of Southern France in the 18th century. Children, under the influence of supernatural power, spoke and prophesied in languages unknown to them."

Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics, edited by James Hastings, vol.7, page 424: "In 1831 the gift of tongues and prophecy appeared, it was believed in answer to fervent prayer, among the members of Irving’s congregation."

Butler, Christian Denominations of the World, "Edward Irving (1792-1834)": "He proclaimed his conviction that the gifts of the Holy Ghost, such as tongues, healing, etc., were withheld only because of the want of faith, and ere long there were several persons in his church who claimed the gift of tongues."

Abingdon Bible Commentary, page ~ 190:" Scottish peasants spoke in tongues."

Webster’s New International Dictionary, 2nd edition, page 1056, "Gift of Tongues": "A phenomenon experienced by some of the Christians of New Testament times, the nature of which seems to have been a kind of ecstatic utterance usually unintelligible to the hearers and even to the speakers, therefore requiring interpretation; glossolalia. Similar phenomena have in modern times been experienced by some of the early Friends, Jansenists, Methodists, etc."

WHAT THEN?

By J. Whitfield Green (John 3:16; Malachi 4:1)

When the great plants of our cities Have turned out their last finished work;

When our merchants have sold their last yard of silk And dismissed the last tired clerk;

When our banks have raked in their last dollar And paid the last dividend;

When the Judge of the earth says, "Close for the night," And asks for a balance-WHAT THEN?

When the choir has sung its last anthem, And the preacher has made his last prayer;

When the people have heard their last sermon, And the sound has died out on the air;

When the Bible lies closed on the altar, And the pews are all empty of men;

And each one stands facing his record, And the great Book is opened-WHAT THEN?

When the actors have played their last drama, And the mimic has made his last fun;

When the film has flashed its last picture, And the billboard displayed its last run;

When the crowds seeking pleasure have vanished And gone out in the darkness again;

When the trumpet of ages is sounded, And we stand up before Him-WHAT THEN?

When the bugle’s call sinks into silence, And the long marching columns stand still;

When the captain repeats his last orders, And they’ve captured the last fort and hill;

And the flag has been hauled from the masthead, And the wounded afield checked in;

And a world that rejected its Savior; Is asked for a reason-WHAT THEN?

But though we or an angel from heaven; preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed" (Galations 1:8).

Last Updated (Friday, 09 October 2009 01:14)

Found at: http://www.apostolic.net/articles/tracts/44-oldies-but-goodies/84-the-apostles-doctrine-concerning