Acts 2:14-41 Peter's Sermon at Pentecost = January 5

Acts 2:14-41

What are you usually doing at 9:00 in the morning of Saturday? On Sunday? On a weekday?

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• God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
• We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
• Compare Peter and the other disciples in John 18:25-27 and 20:19 with their actions here: What accounts for the great difference?
• In what way is Luke 24:44-49 reflected in this sermon? Given the audience, why would Peter quote from the Old Testament?
• What was the theme of Peter’s Pentecost sermon? What themes will we/should we emphasize? 
• What is the point Peter wants the people to understand about current events in Acts 2:15-18? How do you understand Acts 2:19-21? What tells you Joel's prophecy is coming true at this point?
• Do you think the modern church keeps its focus on Christ in its teaching ministry? Did the last sermon you heard focus clearly on Christ?
• How familiar were these people with the events of Jesus' life? How might they be dealing with the rumors of the empty tomb? Given that, why does Peter emphasize the resurrection in Acts 2:24, 31-32?
• What are the implications of the resurrection and ascension of Jesus in Acts 2:24, 30-36? For the people? What would it mean to the people that Jesus is a spiritual King far greater than their greatest earthly king in Acts 2:35-36? How did the resurrection prove that Jesus is Christ and Lord?
• What was the response to Peter’s presentation of the gospel? How did they indicate their change of attitude toward Christ? How would you put Peter's answer in Acts 2:38-40 in your own words to explain what it means to become a Christian? What is required? What is promised?
• How much required knowledge and faith comes before one can be baptized?
• How does the resurrection prove that Jesus is the Messiah? Remembering where these 3,000 came from in Acts 2:8-11, in what way is Acts 1:8 partially fulfilled here? What news will the people bring home with them?
• I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
• To repent and be baptized in Jesus' name means to turn away from all your sin and affirm allegiance to Jesus. Does that present a challenge to you? How have you experienced the reality of God's promises for answering his call?
• From Peter's sermon, what facts about Jesus would be key for non-believers to understand in Acts 2:29-33?
• When did you make your initial commitment to Christ? Who was influential in that process? What convinced you of your need for Christ? How is baptism the believer's wedding ceremony? How much more important is baptism?
• What difference does it make that Jesus truly is reigning King over all? How does that truth affect your daily life?
• When was the last time you seized an opportunity to witness for Jesus? What happened? Who stood with you at that time? How are you like Peter? Unlike him? What encourages you as you watch Peter? Why? Why is it important for the gospel message to be shared with everyone? 
• In what ways are you trying to encourage others to respond to the gospel? What is the best method for teaching the gospel to our contemporaries? 
• In what ways do you consider the Jerusalem church a model for us?
• What is meant by the term “apostles’ teaching”? Why is their teaching critical to the life of the church? How does the teaching of the apostles extend to us?
• Define the term “fellowship” in your own words. How is fellowship different from mere association?
• What is the most meaningful thing to you about Christian fellowship? How has the fellowship of other believers had a positive impact on your spiritual life?
• Why do you think the early church was so prayerful? How do you think today’s church compares with the first-century church in this matter of diligent prayer?
• You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.

https://youtu.be/iv0X6-yw6CU

For more in this series go to First Church



The conversion of Jews at Pentecost


For more in this series, go to One80 

https://www.youtube.com/c/edmondchurchofchrist

 

Document for DBS

Series: Immeasurably More “Revival & Revolution in Acts”

It sometimes takes something big and extraordinary to get our attention. In the book of Acts, we see God establish and unleash the Church, and change the world forever! With just a handful of eye-witnesses and a powerful story, God did more than anyone could’ve imagined. And He still does today. It’s time to open your eyes and see God do immeasurably more than you can ask or imagine.

Title: “Revive Us Again” (Acts 2:1-4; 22-39)

Bookmark: Click Here

Opening Thoughts: What God did at Pentecost is a good reminder that we can be part of an extraordinary spiritual awakening and revolution. What does revival look like in our day, and how can we be part of it?

v  Do You Believe God can still do immeasurably more that we can ask or imagine?

v  Does God still act in visible ways?

v  Luke 23:21 NIV - But they kept shouting, "Crucify him! Crucify him!"

v  Acts 2:37 NIV - When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"

o   Spirit = wind, breath

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Text: Acts 2

The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost

2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. ² Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. ³ They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. ⁴ All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them…

17 “‘In the last days, God says,

    I will pour out my Spirit on all people.

Your sons and daughters will prophesy,

    your young men will see visions,

    your old men will dream dreams.

18 Even on my servants, both men and women,

    I will pour out my Spirit in those days,

    and they will prophesy.

19 I will show wonders in the heavens above

    and signs on the earth below,

    blood and fire and billows of smoke.

20 The sun will be turned to darkness

    and the moon to blood

    before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.

21 And everyone who calls

    on the name of the Lord will be saved.’

 

36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”

 

38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

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Summarize the main story: Describe the events of the story in your own words.

v  Review and retell the story.

Reflections for applications:

v   Could this type of revival happen in our day?

o   What would it look like?

v  Spiritual Revival: Gospel-centered

o   Acts 2:32 NIV - God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it.

§  The message of the Cross will always be foolishness to some, a stumbling block to others. But if our attention is on the market reaction, we move away from the power of the Gospel. This fearfulness to talk about the blood of Christ is an overreaction. Worse than that it borders on heresy, distorting and deflating the power of the Good News --Jim Cymbala

v  Spiritual Revival: Spirit-led

o   Acts 2:38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

o   1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV - Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;

§  Presence and Power of God in Us.

v  Spiritual Revival: Confession Based

o   2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV - if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Challenge to say this prayer throughout the series: “God, help us dare to imagine what you can do, and give us the faith to see when you do it.”

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Digging Questions:

·         How will you respond to God’s “Revival”? What transformative move needs to be made?

·         What do these biblical texts tell you about God and His nature?

·         What is God calling us (me and you individually) to do?

Take Away Challenges

·         What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?

·         Whom do you know who needs to hear this?

·         What is God bringing to your attention in this discussion? What beliefs, thoughts or actions need to be addressed or changed?

Hash tags #ImmeasureyMore #God #Revival #Spirit #Gospel #Confession

Sunday sermon link https://youtu.be/3ocJlrPd7iQ

Kevin’s Blog Link to more resources:       Click here for Kevin’s Blog Notes

Comments and resources with some more resources:

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts%202&version=NIV

Footnotes:  

prophet A person that spoke for God. Sometimes prophets told about things that would happen in the future. 

prophesy To speak for God. vision(s) Something like dreams used by God to speak to people.

David King of Israel about 1000 years before Christ. 

place of death Literally, "Hades." 

ancestors Literally, "fathers," meaning a person's parents, grandparents, and all the people they are descended from. 

prophet A person that spoke for God. Sometimes prophets told about things that would happen in the future. 

God promised ... like David See 2 Sam. 7:12,13 and Ps. 132:11. 

place of death Literally, "Hades." 

Christ The "anointed one" (Messiah) or chosen one of God. 

Spirit, Holy Spirit Also called the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, and the Comforter. Joined with God and Christ, he does God's work among people in the world. 

until I put ... power Literally, "until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet." 

apostles The men Jesus chose to be his special helpers. 

baptized A Greek word meaning to be immersed, dipped, or buried briefly under water. 

apostles The men Jesus chose to be his special helpers. 

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COSMIC SIGNS OF ACTS 2:19-20

—The big questions about these verses are;

1.                  When will these things happen:

2.                  Are these things literal or figurative?

—There are 6 major positions:

1.                  They are literally fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost.

2.                  They refer to the literal destruction of Jerusalem, yet to be in A.D. 70. 

3.                  They reflect back to the cross in a literal way – cf.  Luke 23;44f.

4.                  Somehow they are figurative about speaking in tongues.

5.                  They are figurative about judgment/salvation during any era—Isa. 13:9f; 34:1f; Eze. 32:7f, Amos 8:9; Matt. 24:29; Luke 21;25–26; Rev. 6:12f.

6.                  They are literally fulfilled—some on the Day of Pentecost, and since Pentecost is the beginning of the end, some at the return of Christ—2 Pet. 3:1–10; Matt. 24:29–31; Luke 21:11; Rev. 6:12f.

Note: Probably the best options are #5 and #6.  The prophetic material can be used either literally or figuratively. 

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A BIBLICAL STUDY OF BAPTISM

By Mark E. Moore

I.             What baptism is:

1.           Immersion, not sprinkling

a.            The Greek word means to dip or dunk, to immerse.

b.            Acts 8:38 demonstrates the mode of baptism is immersion.

2.           Sacrament, not symbol

a.            A symbol is a picture of something else. A sacrament is when the symbolic act on earth coincides with what is actually taking place in heaven.

b.            This is not man's work for God but God's work in us.

c.            Galatians 3:27 and Ephesians 4:5 illustrate this work God does in us through baptism.

3.           A work of faith, an appeal to God for a clean conscience

a.            Faith without works is dead. A faith that claims to believe in Jesus but doesn't do what he commands is bogus. So what did Jesus tell us to do when we encounter him for the first time? He commands us to be baptized.

b.            I believe about baptism what many "faith only" brothers believe about "The Sinner's Prayer." When coming to Jesus we ask his forgiveness of sins through this enacted prayer. It is more visual and therefore more memorable than a spoken prayer.

c.            This is best described in 1 Peter 3:21.

4.           The culmination of conversion

a.            The NT includes a number of things in the process of conversion including: hearing, faith, repentance, confession, and baptism. All of these go together as a person is converted to Jesus. While some passages mention only one or two elements, no passage intends to exclude any of these from the process of conversion.

b.            It belongs at conversion (Pentecost [Acts 2:41], Samaritans [Acts 8:12], Eunuch [Acts 8:36], Cornelius [Acts 10:47–48], Lydia [Acts 16:15], Philippian Jailer [Acts 16:33], Paul [Acts 9:18; 22:16]).

c.            It is in conjunction with water (John 3:5–6; Titus 3:5–6, etc.).

d.            It aligns us with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus (Romans 6:3–4; Colossians 2:12).

II.           What Baptism Does:

1.           Baptism makes disciples — Matthew 28:19

a.            Like circumcision of the O.T. covenant, it is our entrance into the new covenant (Colossians 2:11–12).

b.            Baptism is when we "put on" Christ (Galatians 3:27).

2.           Through repentance and baptism we are granted forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).

3.           Through baptism we are promised the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).

4.           Baptism saves us as the culmination of conversion (Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21)

5.           It serves as a ritual of remembrance and community.

6.           It alleviates guilt through God‘s forgiveness and shame through being brought into the community.

III.        Can a person be saved without baptism?

1.           It was not until Huldrych Zwingli (c. 1523), that anyone divorced baptism from conversion. He did this for theological (and political) reasons, especially a commitment to the sovereignty of God.

2.           Only God is the judge, but he judges willful disobedience harshly.

3.           If men can figure out a C-section, where a baby would come into the world without passing through the normal birth canal, I'm pretty sure God can too. However, neither a C-section nor an unbaptized Christian is either natural or healthy. 

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CONVERSIONS IN THE BOOK OF ACTS

In the boxes below, write in the verse numbers from the passage which specifically mention one of the elements of conversion.  If an element is necessarily implied, place the verse number in brackets. Some boxes will be blank.  Then, write a summary of what these passages teach about conversion.  Also tell anything that surprised you as you did this exercise.

Text in Acts	Teaching	Repent	Believe	Obey	Baptism	Water	H.S.	Scripture	Miracles	Joy/Awe	God's Choice
2:14–47
3:17–4:4
5:12–16
6:7
8:5–13
8:26–39
9:1–18
9:34–35
10:30–48 (11:18)
11:19–24
13:11–12
13:46–48
16:14–15
16:29–34
17:1–4
17:10–12
17:22–34
18:8
19:1–7

            


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WHAT IS THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH?—PART 1: HISTORY  

By Mark Moore 

You may have them in your town.  They may meet in a building just up the street with a sign on it that says, "Christian Church."  So big deal?  Other buildings have names like Baptist, Methodist, or Lutheran.  In fact, if you were to travel across North America and Canada you could find some 219 different signs on Churches.  Some have such esoteric names as:  

"Christadelphians," "Elim Fellowship," "Holy Ukrainian Autocephalic Church in Exile," and my personal favorite, "True (Old Calendar) Orthodox Church of Greece (Synod of Metropolitan Cyprian), American Exarchate." Frankly, it gets nauseating.  You would think that after 20 or 30 denominations, that Christians would run out of things to fight about . . . but they don't.  So we ask again, "Why should one be interested in the Christian Church?"  Precisely because we are fed up with Denominations. 

The group of people who label their churches "Christian Church" have joined an alliance of Christians who realize that they are not the only Christians, but they do want to be Christians only.  These folks are committed to allowing the Bible, and the Bible alone to be the only rule of faith and practice for the church.  

Man-made creeds and denominational hierarchies had no place in the early church.  Therefore, following the New Testament (NT) book of Acts, we have put away these human inventions and simply tried to follow Jesus and his Apostles.  

This alliance goes back to the early 1800's.  As the pioneers were spreading across America's fruited plains, so were Denominational schisms.  A father-son team, by the name of Thomas and Alexander Campbell got fed up with it  (along with many others).  They decided to drop all denominational names, creeds, and authority structures and just be the Church as it is described in the Bible. 

Obviously this is an over-simplification.  And our history as a NT church has been checkered (as was the church of the NT).  But the basic concepts were both pure and popular.  In fact, to date, there has not been a faster growing religious movement in America than the Christian Church.  Baptists, Methodist, and Presbyterians were all enamored with the possibility to follow only the Bible and Jesus as the head of the church. It would not be accurate to say that they left their denominations, nor that they started a new one.  They simply dropped all divisive names and partisan creeds to be the one body that Jesus prayed about (John 17:22–23). 

Today, especially in larger cities, we find another resurgence to drop denominational affiliation.  But it has a different motivation.  Typically a church will find itself at odds with the denominational leadership, not over doctrine, but over personality.  So the church buys the building and goes independent.  But God never intended the church to be independent from the universal body of Jesus.  Nor did He intend for men to take power positions and struggle for predominance. 

Our call is not to individuality but to the universal body of Jesus.  Our call is not to the 

"Right" denomination but to be nondenominational.  Simply put, our plea is to restore Jesus as the only head of the body and to restore the church as described in the Bible. 

If you take these pristine principles and transport them into the real world, of course they will encounter difficulties.  There will be personality struggles, differences of opinion, and organizational glitches.  But our guiding principle has been this:  In Scriptures, unity; in opinions, liberty; in all things, love. 

 WHAT IS THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH?—PART 2: UNITY 

 By Mark Moore 

There are two main thrusts of the Independent Christian Churches:  (1) Allegiance to the Bible and (2) Unity of all believers in Jesus.  This article will deal with the issue of unity, the next will deal with allegiance to the Bible. 

Let's talk reality here.  Can we really expect Christians to be unified?  That depends entirely on what kind of unity you are talking about. 

Doctrinal agreement—Throughout the history of the church, there have been more divisions over the Eucharist (communion), than anything else.  Over a simple piece of bread and a bit of grape juice, there have been at least 10 different arguments:  One cup or many, juice or wine, leavened or unleavened bread, once a week/month/year, transubstantiation or no, etc. ad. nauseam.  In fact, the famed book Foxe's Book of Martyrs tells of more Christians killed by other Christians than by pagans. And many of those deaths were because one believed differently about the Lord's Supper than someone else.  And the Eucharist is just one issue.  We have fought over Millennialism, the Canon, Inerrancy, Hermeneutics, Arminianism and a whole bunch of other words that most people don't even want to learn how to spell. 

Now, the likelihood of Christians agreeing on doctrine is pretty nil.  But the fact that we disagree does not mean that we must dis-fellowship.  Nor does it mean that doctrine is not essential.  There are certain doctrines that we can never afford to err in (e.g. the deity and resurrection of Jesus).  For these define what being a Christian is all about.  God gave us the Bible because He intended for us to understand it and live by it.  But on the other side of this dingy coin is the unfortunate fact that most of what Christians have divided over is of no interest to either the common man or God in heaven. Biblical unity is hardly measured by doctrinal agreement on insignificant issues. 

Organizational Unity—We have all heard that the church is not the building but its people.  Perhaps you have also heard that the church is not an organization but an organism.  That is true, but naive.  The church is also an organization with boards, trustees, bank accounts, title deeds, and tax-exempt status.  If we look for unity in the organism led by Christ, we will undoubtedly find it.  But organizational unity requires that we loose our grip on the title deeds to the property.  And even harder, it requires that we abolish or at least ignore, the uniqueness that we have worked so hard to create.  "Churches" have labored furiously to promote their idiosyncrasies.  Their foundations are laid with blood, sweat and pride.  Organizational unity requires an end of that uniqueness.  Either we must all melt into one new organization which we call can agree on, or one existing organization swallows up all the others.  Call me pessimistic, but that is not about to happen! 

Humanitarian/Functional Unity— Perhaps we could find unity in humanitarian efforts, or ecumenical co-services between churches.  It is unfortunate that more church organizations do not work cooperatively.  We could speak to Washington with a unified voice.  Our corporate funds could alleviate much human suffering without each church covering the same ground.  Think what more ecumenical cooperation could mean for world hunger, Bible translations, legislative lobbies, etc.  But two things stand in our way.  First, the prideful men who build and lead church organizations clamor for credit.  This is not only unfortunate, it is sinful.  Second, some feel that alliances with 

organizations with different doctrine somehow compromises their "pure doctrine."  Now correct doctrine is essential to individual salvation.  It just seems sad that while we are preoccupied straining at gnats and swallowing camels, the world suffers on a fast track to destruction. 

Spiritual Unity—A group may have spirit, but not The Spirit.  That is, no church has a 100% population of Spirit-filled members.  Thus, no church is The Church.  Spiritual unity, then, is found only at the individual level, not the corporate level.  Two churches, even of the  same stripe, will not have spiritual unity.  But two Christians, from different groups can find spiritual unity.  Even without agreeing on all doctrinal points, two believers who find each other, find that they are members of the one Church, led by the one Spirit, and committed to the one Lord.  Denominations are a sad, but perhaps necessary evil.  But Jesus' prayer has not gone unanswered: "I do not ask in behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; that they may all be one; even as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be in Us; that the world may believe that Thou didst send Me" (John 17:20– 21). 

 WHAT IS THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH?—PART 3: THE BIBLE  

By Mark Moore 

As we pointed out in our last article, there are two main thrusts of the Independent Christian Churches:  (1) Allegiance to the Bible and (2) Unity of all believers in Jesus.  The last article dealt with the issue of unity.  This one will deal with allegiance to the Bible. 

The Bible is clearly an amazing book.    It speaks to hundreds of controversial subjects with unmitigated unity.  That, in itself, is an amazing thing.  I defy anyone to find even ten U.S. Senators that would agree on five major issues of the day.  But the Bible was written on three continents over a span of 1600 years by some 40 different authors with varied backgrounds.  The authors included:  king, politician, shepherd, fisherman, military leaders, cup-bearer, prime minister, doctor, tax collector, rabbi, etc.  It even uses three different languages.  (The Old Testament was written in Hebrew, the New Testament in Greek, with a smattering of Aramaic in both.)  When we consider such diversity in its production, and yet such unity in its content we can't help but suspect the Bible's Divine authorship. 

Not only was its production amazing, so has been its distribution.  The Bible was the first book printed after the invention of Gutenberg's press in 1456.  Since that date nearly three billion copies have been printed by Bible Societies alone.  That is equivalent to one copy every three seconds, twenty-four hours a day for three hundred years.  This book has been translated more than any other and is now in almost 3,000 languages.  More than 95% of the world's population is able to read the Bible in their native tongue.  It has always been the #1 best seller.  Why?  Because despite multiplied efforts to silence the Bible and/or discredit its teachings, it still speaks with a "lion's roar."  It comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable.  It is simply without parallel. 

As a college professor, I read scores of books every year.  The more I read, the more marked becomes the difference between God's Word and man's.  These other books prick my curiosity.  The Bible pierces my soul.  Man's words cause me to ask many noble questions.  God's word gives me answers.  Contemporary literature helps me process this world.  The Scriptures propel me into eternity.  There is simply no comparison.  This book, completed nearly 2,000 years ago, is as fresh as today's news print—it is active and living as a two-edged sword (Heb 4:12). 

But beyond being an amazing book which is personal, the Word of God is also extremely practical.  The firm stand of the Christian Church is that the Bible is practical for the operation and institution of the Church of Jesus Christ.  That is, we have no need for human creeds or hierarchies to run the church.  If Christ is the head, that is sufficient. And if the Bible is God's word, we need no other constitution and by-laws. 

Now the Bible doesn't deal with each event of our contemporary culture.  It says nothing directly about the Right to Life or political parties (e.g. Democrat vs. Republican).  It does not deal with A.I.D.S. or artificial insemination.  So how can we be guided by the Bible in today's world?  The Bible provides for three necessary ingredients and Jesus provides the fourth. 

First, the Bible is full of Godly principles which guide our lives.  If it did deal with all the details of this world's economy, it would be too big for any of us to read.  But these broad principles touch on literally every aspect of our human existence no matter when, where, or how a person lives.  Most people who don't know what God says about particular issues are ignorant, not because the Bible is silent, but because they have not bothered to read it. 

  Second, the Bible calls for the institution of Elders in the local church— Godly leaders who help teach and relate the Bible to the local church.  Third, where there are matters of opinion, the Bible teaches us to accept one another as Christ accepted us (Rom. 15:7).  And how did Jesus accept us?  With forgiveness, gentleness, grace, and generosity. 

Finally, beyond the Bible, we have the contemporary voice of God through the Holy Spirit indwelling the believer.  It is He who helps us understand and apply God's eternal and divine Word today (1 Cor. 2).  Such a view of the Bible opens up for us the freedom to take it as our own.  But as always, with freedom comes the responsibility to diligently study and live out the Word of God. 

  WHAT IS THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH?—PART 4: BAPTISM   By Mark Moore 

Besides our commitment to the Bible and our commitment to unity, the Independent Christian Churches have been identified by our view of baptism.  Here's the deal:  We fully immerse individuals in water as their initial step of faith when they believe in Jesus.  We do this as a declaration of their forgiveness of sins and a promise of their gift from God—the Holy Spirit.  Why?  Because we sincerely believe that is what the Bible teaches us to do.  There are several questions people ask us about our practice of baptism. 

Why do you immerse rather than sprinkle?  Because that was what Jesus and the Apostles did.  John the Baptist baptized where there was "much water" (John 3:23).  Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch "went down into the water" (Acts 8:38–39).  And because baptism is a picture of death, burial (Rom 6:5; Col 2:12), and resurrection (Rom 6:4), immersion is the most appropriate form.  In fact, the Greek word for baptism [baptizo] means to immerse or to dip.  And in the first few centuries of the church it was the only form of baptism practiced by Christians. 

Why do you baptize people right when they confess their faith in Jesus?  Why not wait?  In the book of Acts, the record of the birth and growth of the church, everyone who was baptized did it at the point of their conversion (e.g. Acts 2:41; 8:12; 10:48; 16:33; 22:16, etc.).  Baptism is intended to be the starting point for the Christian.  It is the initial act of faith.  It has been compared to new birth (Titus 3:5; John 3:5); clothing one's self with Christ (Gal 3:27); and an entrance rite, like circumcision of the Jews (Col 2:11–12).  We simply have no example of baptism which properly took place at any other time than conversion. 

Is baptism a necessary part of conversion?  Let me begin simply by quoting some Scriptures and then making application: —Matthew 28:19–20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  —Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 

—Acts 2:38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 

—1 Peter 3:21 and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Baptism in no way earns your salvation.  The very thought of gaining heaven by getting wet is ridiculous.  But baptism is the appropriate expression of faith in God.  We are all aware that "faith without works is dead" (James 2:24– 26).  So the question is not "Should we respond to God's gracious gift of Christ?" but "How should we respond to receive Christ?"  When the Jews first asked this question, the Apostle Peter gave the answer in Acts 2:38.  And Jesus, in his great commission designed baptism to be part of making disciples (see Matthew 28:19–20 and Mark 16:16).  Peter, in his letter, went so far as to say, "Baptism now saves you . . ."  Not that it earns merit, but that it expresses faith.  It is God's ordained gift by which we die to ourselves and are wedded to Christ.  Some have supplanted baptism with a "prayer of faith" which is nowhere to be found in the Bible.  Baptism, however is riveted to the NT as God's invitation to come to Christ. 

Can someone be saved if they have not been baptized?  In my answer to this question you will notice a conspicuous absence of Scripture.  That is because the Bible neither asks nor answers this question.  The NT just assumes that every believer will accept this beautiful gift from God at conversion.  Therefore, we are left with my own opinion, (of which I have many, free for the asking).  But be warned:  This is the opinion of one man, not the eternal word of God. 

With that understanding, yes, I feel that person who truly believes in Jesus and bears spiritual fruit, but never submits to baptism can be saved.  It is much like a "Caesarean-section."  A child has come into the world, without passing through the natural birth canal.  If man is clever enough to perform a Caesarean-section, I suppose that God is too.  However, it is both unnatural and unhealthy.  God's design, yea His command, is for every repentant believer to die to self and live to Christ through Christian baptism. 

================

Devotional Thoughts:

Church Growth
Flavil Yeakley in “Why Churches Grow” (pp 52 - 54) wrote: These data . . . demonstrate the importance of a personal relationship with individual Christians as a part of the total conversion process.”  In his statistical study Yeakley selected 100 people (50 who dropped out after six months and 50 remaining as members after six months) after being baptized.  94% of those that dropped out developed four or less personal relationships with other members of the congregation.  On the other hand, 90% of those remaining active members developed six or more personal relationships in the church.

Yeakley concludes: “These data suggest that when subjects formed personal relationships with members of the congregation, they were likely to remain faithful.  When they did not form such personal relationships, they were likely to drop out of the church.”

Win Arn in “The Church Growth Ratio Book” (1990) quotes Yeakley’s study.  Arn goes on to state that the first six months are the most crucial.  “New members not integrated into a church within the first six-months could already be on their way out the back door.”  Arn emphasizes that 75% - 85% of the persons who become inactive church members do so in the first year of their membership (pp 23 - 24).

Arn states that a church needs a small group for every 14 members – small intimate personal groups.  These can be Bible study groups, prayer groups, fellowship groups, social groups, work groups, task groups, and mid-week house groups or even a 6:30 a.m. men’s group meeting at a local restaurant.  Invite visitors and then get them involved in the work of the church.  A higher percentage will become lasting members.

In conclusion (emphases mine): “And they CONTINUED STEADFASTLY in the apostle’s doctrine and FELLOWSHIP, and in the breaking of bread, and in prayer (Acts 2:42)
===============
In Support of Dreamers
from The Tyranny of the Rigid

   On May 24, 1965, a thirteen-and-a-half-foot boat quietly slipped out of the marina at Falmouth, Massachusetts. Its destination? England. It would be the smallest craft ever to make the voyage. Its name? Tinkerbelle. Its pilot? Robert Manry, a copy editor for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, who felt ten years at the desk was enough boredom for a while, so he took a leave of absence to fulfill his secret dream.
   Manry was afraid, not of the ocean, but of all those people who would try to talk him out of the trip. So he didn't share it with many, just some relatives and especially his wife, Virginia. She was his greatest source of support.
   The trip? Anything but pleasant. He spent sleepless nights trying to cross shipping lanes without getting run down and sunk. Weeks at sea caused his food to become tasteless. Loneliness, that age-old monster of the deep, led to terrifying hallucinations. His rudder broke three times. Storms swept him overboard, and had it not been for the rope he had knotted around his waist, he would never have been able to pull himself back on board. Finally, after seventy-eight days alone at sea, he sailed into Falmouth, England.
   During those nights at the tiller, he had fantasized about what he would do once he arrived. He expected simply to check into a hotel, eat dinner alone, then the next morning see if, perhaps, the Associated Press might be interested in his story. Was he in for a surprise!
   Word of his approach had spread far and wide. To his amazement, three hundred vessels, with horns blasting, escorted Tinkerbelle into port. Forty thousand people stood screaming and cheering him to shore. Robert Manry, copy editor turned dreamer, became an overnight hero.
   His story has been told around the world. But Robert couldn't have done it alone. Standing on the dock was an even greater hero: Virginia. Refusing to be rigid when Robert's dream was taking shape, she allowed him freedom to pursue his dream.
   Ministries cannot become great without dreamers who weary of only maintenance year in, year out. We need more Roberts who have the creativity and tenacity to break with boredom and try the unusual. But even more, we need the Virginias who won't allow rigidity to rule the roost.

   -- Charles R. Swindoll in Leadership, Vol. 8, no. 4.

See: 1 Co 5:7; Ac 2:17; 1 Jn 2:8; Ro 6:4
#Creativity
#Adversity
#Companionship
#Encouragement
#Friendship

=============
Unfortunate Little Flaw

On May 6, 1937, just over 60 years ago, the Zeppelin, Hindenburg, burst into flame above Lakehurst, New Jersey killing 36 of the 97 people aboard. The accident was attributed to burning hydrogen and effectively halted rigid-airship travel. After years of sleuthing, NASA engineer Addison Bain has theorized that the fire was started because the Zeppelins of that time were coated with a highly flammable outer coating and the ship caught fire in a highly charged electrical atmosphere. He called it an “unfortunate little flaw.”
The Titanic also had an unfortunate little flaw. The “unsinkable” ship’s sulfurous, brittle steel broke rather than bending when it hit an iceberg. Modern steel would have bent. On April 14, 1912, this unfortunate little flaw cost the lives of 1513 crew and passengers.
On January 28, 1986, seven people were killed in the disastrous explosion of the Challenger space shuttle. This was caused by an “unfortunate little flaw” in the O-ring seal in the solid fuel rocket attached to the Challenger’s right side which failed under the prevailing weather conditions.
It may seem a small difference in the religious world when some teach a person is baptized because he or she has already been saved rather than to be saved. After all a person is baptized in either case. However, it is not in accordance with scriptural teaching concerning salvation to teach that a person is saved before baptism. (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3-6; 1 Peter 3:21). If this “unfortunate little flaw” in religious teaching causes people to lose their souls, it is a far worse disaster than the Challenger, Titanic and Hinderburg all rolled into the same accident.

Willis Hood
#Salvation


=============
Humor:
Burglar and an Elderly Woman 

An elderly woman had just returned to her home from an evening of church services when she was startled by an intruder. She caught the man in the act of robbing her home of its valuables and yelled, "Stop! Acts 2:38!" (Repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven.)
The burglar stopped in his tracks. The woman calmly called the police and explained what she had done.
As the officer cuffed the man to take him in, he asked the burglar, "Why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a scripture to you."
"Scripture?" replied the burglar. "She said she had an ax and two 38's!"

==============
The Old Lady and the Burglar
------------------------------------

An elderly woman had just returned to her home from an evening service when she was startled by an intruder. As she caught the man in the act of robbing her home of its valuables, she yelled "Stop, Acts 2:38."
The burglar quickly turned around and pointed his gun at her when she yelled again, "Stop, Acts 2:38."
Well this time the man stopped, dead in his tracks. The woman calmly called the Police and explained what she had done. As the Officer cuffed the man to take him in, he asked him "Why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a Scripture to you."
"Scripture?" the burglar exclaimed, "I thought she said she had an axe and two 38s!"

The Kingdom Unleashed - Part 3 from North Boulevard Church of Christ on Vimeo.

CHURCH GROWTH IN ACTS (See Acts 1:15)

1:15 120
2:41 3,000 souls
2:47 Adding Daily
4:4         5,000 men
5:14 Multitudes constantly added
6:1         Disciples increasing in number
6:7          Disciples increased greatly with many priests
6:15 Numbers increasing daily
9:31 Continued to increase in peace
11:21 Large numbers believed and turned to the Lord
12:24 The Word continued to grow and be multiplied
16:5 Growing Daily
19:20 The Word was growing mightily and prevailing
21:20 Myriads = 10,000s
28:31 Teaching continued on without hindrance



===================

THOUGHT QUESTIONS ON THE HOLY SPIRIT

1.            The Holy Spirit has his own unique personality.

2.            A person can tell if they have H.S. by the special gifts they have or feelings they get.

3.            The tongues of the NT were human languages.

4.            The H.S. did not indwell men until after Jesus' Ascension.

5.            The main job of the Holy Spirit is to work miracles in people’s lives.

6.            A person must have the Holy Spirit to be saved.

7.            Speaking in tongues is the sign a person is baptized in the Spirit.

8.            The Holy Spirit works mostly in the lives of those who are saved.

9.            The Bible is a product of the Holy Spirit and thus the primary means through which he speaks to people today, especially before they are saved.

10.        We know more about the Holy Spirit than we do about God the Father or Jesus the Christ.

11.        Just as Jesus was subject to the Father, so the Holy Spirit is subject to both the Father and the Son.

12.        The work of the Holy Spirit in the NT is essentially different than His work in the O.T.

13.        The works and miracles of the Spirit cannot be imitated by men.

14.        A person receives the Holy Spirit at the point of baptism.

15.        The Holy Spirit brings comfort and joy to those who follow Christ. 

16.        The Holy Spirit was not understood as the Third Person of the Trinity until after the ascension of Jesus. 

17.        The Holy Spirit does not differentiate between men and women in salvation, communication, or gifting. 

18.        Once you have the Holy Spirit you will always have him—it is not like he is leaving us or like we leak and need to be filled anew. 

19.        The Holy Spirit can be known as an individual apart from the Father and/or the Son.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS ON

                                                  TONGUES AND THE HOLY SPIRIT

                                                                    By Mark Moore

1.           Who (or what), is the Holy Spirit?

2.           How can we know if we have the Holy Spirit?  Can we know if others have the Holy Spirit?  If so, how? (1 John 3:23–4:1)

3.           Does one have to have the H.S. in his/her life in order to be saved (Rom. 8:9)?

4.           Is a supernatural experience with the Holy Spirit a sign of a person being saved?

5.           Is there a difference in how the Holy Spirit worked in the O.T. and in the NT?

6.           In what cities do we read about tongues?  Do they have any similarities?

7.           Should every believer expect to receive a spiritual gift?  Should every believer expect to speak in tongues? (1 Cor. 12:7–11, 29–30)

8.           Is there any evidence that tongues has passed away? (1 Cor. 13:8–10; Eph. 2:20) 9.           What is the "perfect" of 1 Cor. 13:10?

10.       What is the baptism of the Holy Spirit?  Should Christians expect to receive this today? (Acts 1:5; 2:1–4; 10:44–48; 11:15)

11.       Who spoke in tongues on the day of Pentecost?  The 12 Apostles or the 120?  Support your view (Acts 1:5; 2:1, 7, 14, 37).

12.       What is the purpose of Biblical miracles?

13.       Have other religious groups claimed to speak in tongues?  Can one speak in tongues without the Holy Spirit?

14.       Is it important whether or not a person believes in the gift of tongues?  Is it a divisive issue in the church?

15.       Is there such a thing as "tongues of angels" or are all tongues human languages? (1 Cor. 13:1)

16.       What is the purpose of tongues? (1 Cor. 14:22)

17.       Is it appropriate to have a "prayer language" or is tongues always to be a public event? (1 Cor. 14:14–15)

18.       Are tongues today comparable to tongues of the NT?

19.       Should one "learn" how to speak in tongues?

20.       Should one pray for gifts of the Holy Spirit? (1 Cor. 12:32; 14:1, 39)

21.       What are possible sources of spiritual powers/works?

22.       Is tongues seen as a mature or immature gift in Scripture?

23.       If tongues, prophecy and knowledge have ceased as gifts (1 Cor. 13:10), what about the other gifts (e.g. wisdom, faith, healing, miracles, distinguishing of spirits)?

24.       What are the purposes of spiritual gifts?

25.       Is there a hierarchy of spiritual gifts?  Functions in the church?  Believers exercising spiritual gifts? (1 Cor. 12:27–28)

26.       Should we desire or seek spiritual gifts? (1 Cor. 12:31; 14:1, 39)

27.       Is the gift of tongues intended to be private or public?

28.       Is there a limit to how many should speak in tongues in a service? (1 Cor. 14:27)

29.       What is the connection between one's emotions and the practice of spiritual gifts?

                                                         Who Is The Holy Spirit?

                                                                    By Mark Moore

I.             The Person of the Holy Spirit

A.         Personal attributes—personality

1.         Mind/Knowledge (Rom. 8:27; 1 Cor. 2:11).

2.         Affection or love (Romans 15:30).

3.         Will (1 Cor. 12:11).

4.         Can be grieved (Isaiah 63:10; Eph. 4:30).

5.         Can be resisted (Acts 7:51).

6.         Can be lied to (Acts 5:3).

7.         Can be scorned (Hebrews 10:29).

8.         Use of the masculine pronoun—He/Him, (John 15:26; 16:13–14) even though PNEUMA is neuter.

B.         Divine attributes

1.         Eternal (Heb. 9:14).

2.         Mind of God (1 Cor. 2:10–11).

3.         Power of God (Luke 1:35; Acts 1:8; Micah 3:8; Judges 14:6).

4.         Omnipresent (Psalm 139:7–10).

5.         Omniscient (1 Cor. 2:10–11).

6.         Spirit of Holiness (Rom. 1:40); of Grace (Heb. 10:29); Truth (John 14:17; 16:13); of Wisdom (Isaiah 11:2); of Glory (1 Pet. 4:14); of Life (Rom. 8:2); Eternal Spirit (Heb. 9:14).

7.         Associated with the Trinity (Mt. 28:19; 2 Cor. 13:14).

8.         Identified with Jehovah (Compare Acts 28:25 with Isaiah 6:1–13; and Heb. 10:15–17 with Jer. 31:31–34; Acts 5:3–4).

II.          The Work of the Holy Spirit A.          Creation:

1.         Creation (Genesis 1:2; Job 33:4; Psalm 104:30).

2.         Giving life (Genesis 2:7; Romans 8:11; John 6:63; John 3:5).

3.         Regeneration (John 3:3–7; Titus 3:5).

               B.     Conviction

1.         Working Miracles (Matt. 12:28; 1 Cor. 12:9–11).

2.         Convicts (John 16:8–11).

3.         Sanctification (2 Thess. 2:13; Rom. 15:16).

4.         Restrains Sin (Inference from Gen. 6:3; Job; 2 Thess. 2:7) through:

a. Scriptures

b.                        Individual Christians

c. Corporate Church

d.                        Government instituted by God (Rom. 13:1–7) C.      Communication

1.         Authorship of Prophecies (2 Peter 1:21).

2.         Speaks/Testifies (1 Tim. 4:1; Rev. 2:7; John 15:26), esp. about Jesus.

3.         Teaches (John 14:26; 16:13, 15; 15:26).

4.         Leads and Forbids (Acts 16:6–7).

5.         Searches and Reveals (1 Cor. 2:10).

6.         Intercession (Rom. 8:26).

7.         Strengthen/Comfort (John 14:26).

8.         Commands (Acts 8:29; 13:2).

III.       How to Receive the Holy Spirit

A.         Believe (John 7:38–39; Eph. 1:13–14; Gal. 3:2, 5)

B.         Ask (Luke 11:13)

C.         Repent and Be Baptized (Acts 2:38–39; 19:1–6; John 3:3–7; 

New Birth—Titus 3:3–7; 1 Cor. 12:13)

D.         Love (John 14:23)

E.          Obey (Acts 5:32)

IV.       Do you Possession the Holy Spirit

A.         Better question:  Does the Holy Spirit possess you?

B.         Tests of the Spirit Possession:  1 John 4:1

1.         Believe in Jesus, 1 John 3:23

2.         Love the brethren, 1 John 3:24

3.         Produce the fruit of the Spirit, Gal. 5:20–22

V.         Important Observations

A.         The word for spirit, both in the Hebrew (RUAH) and in the Greek (PNEUMA) is the same word for "Wind" and "Breath".

B.         It is often difficult to know whether to translate the word with a capital or a small "S".  That is, it is sometimes not certain whether a passage refers to the Holy Spirit or the human spirit (e.g. Acts 19:21).

C.         Another word for the Spirit is PARAKLETOS (from which we get the word "Paraclete"—and no, this is not athletic apparel).  Etymologically it means "to call along side of."  It can be translated as "Helper, intercessor, mediator, strengthener."  It is found in John 14:16, 26, 15:26; 16:7; 1 John 2:1.  The KJV translation of the word as "Comforter," is somewhat misleading.  The H.S. does not come to make us feel warm and comfortable, but He comes to strengthen us (which is what "comfort" meant in 1611 when the KJV was translated).

                                  THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT BEFORE THE CHURCH

I.            THE WORK OF THE SPIRIT IN THE O.T.

A.         Revelation to God's men (e.g. Abraham, Gen. 20:7; Moses, Num. 12:8).

B.         Revelation to Prophets (2 Pet. 1:21), through:

1.         Spoken word (Ex. 19:9; 1 Sam. 3:1–14).

2.         Dreams (Num. 12:6; Dan. 10:9; Jer. 31:26; Joel 2:28).

3.         Visions (Isa. 1:1; 6:1; Eze. 1:3; 1 Kings 22:19; Rev. 1:10–11, 17).

C.         "Coming Upon" to empower the recipient for a special service (see handout "Holy Spirit Coming Upon"):

1.         Prophets

2.         Craftsmen

3.         Judges

4.         Military leaders

5.         Workers of miracles

D.         This reception of the H.S.:

1.         Had no apparent spiritual qualities.

2.         Was for a special call to service for a specific task.

3.         Was temporary (1 Sam. 16:14; Psa 51:11).

E.          There was nothing like NT indwelling in the O.T. (cf. John 7:39; 14:17; 16:7).

II.         THE WORK OF THE SPIRIT WITH JESUS

"For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit" (John 3:34).

A.         Immaculate Conception, Luke 1:35 (cf. Gen 3:15; Isa 7:14; Matt. 1:18, 20–23).

B.         Filled from Childhood, Luke 1:15 (Argument by extension from John the Baptist).

C.         Special filling at Baptism, Mark 1:10/Matt  3:16/Luke 3:22/John 1:31–34.

D.         Led him into the wilderness to be tempted, Mark 1:12/Matt 4:1/Luke 4:1.

E.          In relation to Christ’s prophetic office (Matthew 12:18–21 from Isa 42:1–4 and Luke 4:21 in relation to Isaiah 61:21–2).

F.          Empowerment for Ministry for preaching, Miracles (Luke 4:14, 18–19 [from Isa 61:1– 2), and exorcism (Matt 12:28).

G.         Participated in raising Jesus (Rom 8:11; 1 Pet 3:18).

III.      THE WORK OF THE SPIRIT WITH THE APOSTLES

A.         The promise of inspiration (Mt. 10:18–19).

B.         The promise of correct teaching (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13).

C.         The H.S. would replace the presence of Christ (John 16:5–7).

                                  The Work of the Holy Spirit in the Life of the Christian

                                                                    By Mark Moore

I.             Empowerment (this is for evidence, not salvation and it‘s not granted to everyone).

A.         Miracles

1.         Immaculate Conception (Mt 1:18–20; Luke 1:35)

2.         Baptism of the H.S. (Mt 3:11; Mk 1:8; Luke 3:16; John 1:33; Acts 1:5; 11:16); and Baptism in general (Mt 28:19; John 3:5–8; Acts 2:38 [although cf. Acts 8:15–17]; 19:2–3; 1 Cor 12:12)

3.         Tongues and/or prophecy (Acts 2:4, 17–18; 10:44–47; 11:15; 11:28; 19:6)

4.         Demon exorcisms (Mt 12:28)

5.         Miracles which validated Jesus‘ ministry (Acts 5:32, He is given to those who obey him; Heb 2:4), as well as Paul‘s ministry (Rom 15:19; 1 Cor 2:4), and the

Galatians‘ conversion (Gal 3:5)

B.         Filled with the Spirit

1.         John the Baptist (Luke 1:15)

2.         Elizabeth (Luke 1:41)

3.         Zechariah (Luke 1:67)

4.         Simeon (Luke 2:25–26)

5.         Jesus (Luke 4:1, 14; Luke 10:21; John 3:34; Heb 9:14)

6.         To those who ask (Luke 11:13)

7.         The Apostles (John 20:22; Acts 1:8)

8.         Peter (Acts 4:8)

9.         Seven ―deacons‖ (Acts 6:3), especially Stephen (Acts 6:5; 7:55)

10.     Saul (Acts 9:17; 13:9)

11.     Barnabas (Acts 11:24)

12.     Disciples (Acts 13:52)

II.          Guidance (Rom 8:14; Gal 5:18)

A.         Physical movement

1.         Jesus into the wilderness for temptations (Mt 4:1; Mk 1:12; Luke 4:1)

2.         Simeon into the Temple courts (Luke 2:27)

3.         Philip to the Ethiopian (Acts 8:29) and then ―whisked‖ away to Azotus (Acts 8:39)

4.         Peter to the three messengers of Cornelius (Acts 10:19; 11:12)

5.         Paul & Co hindered from going into Asia & Mysia (Acts 16:6–7) and Paul was

―compelled‖ to go to Jerusalem (Acts 20:22)

B.         Specific instructions (Acts 13:2, 4; 15:28; 20:23 & 21:4, 11; 1 Cor 2:10–14; Heb 9:8) or Spiritual wisdom and revelation (Eph 1:17; 3:5; 1 Tim 4:1; 1 Pet 1:11; Rev 14:13; 22:17). ―He who has an ear let him hear what the Spirit says . . .‖ (Rev 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22)

C.         Preaching

1.         Promise to the Apostles when they stand before authorities (Mt 10:20; Mk 13:11; Luke 12:12)

2.         General preparation for preaching (Acts 1:8; 4:8, 31; 6:10; 1 Th 1:5–6; 1 Pet 1:12)

D.         Prophecy (Mt 22:43; Mk 12:36; Acts 1:16; 4:25; 28:25; Heb 3:7; 10:15; 2 Pet 1:21)

E.          Counselor — the Spirit of truth (John 14:16–17; 14:26; 15:26; 16:13–15; Acts 1:2)

F.          Provided encouragement to the church (Acts 9:31), strength (Eph 3:16), and help (Php

1:19; 2 Tim 1:14), especially through corporate singing (Eph 5:18–19) G. Installs Elders in the church (Acts 20:28)

III.       Validation

A.         Of Jesus at his baptism (Mt 3:16; Mk 1:10; Luke 3:22; John 1:32–33)

B.         Of Jesus in his ministry and preaching (Mt 12:18 [cf. Isa 42:1–4]; Luke 4:18 [Isa

61:1–2]; Acts 10:38; 1 John 5:6–8) and resurrection/ascension (Acts 2:33; Rom 1:4; 1 Tim 3:16)

C.         Of the Gentiles (Acts 15:8)

D.         Of Paul‘s honesty (Rom 9:1) and ministry (2 Cor 6:5)

IV.       Transformation of the Christian

A.         Conversion (Rom 1:29; Gal 3:14; Titus 3:5) and sanctification (Rom 15:16; 1 Cor 6:11; Gal 3:3; Eph 4:12; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pet 1:2), Sealing us as God‘s possession (2 Cor

1:22; 5:5; Eph 1:13), so that our lives and confession align with the Spirit‘s (1 Cor 12:3; 1 John 4:2–3, 6)

B.         New life (John 6:63; 7:38–39; Rom 8:11), even to Jesus at the resurrection (1 Pet

3:18), and refreshment (Acts 3:19; Isaiah 4:1–2; 44:1–5; 55:1–5)

C.         We accept God‘s love and are filled with it (Rom 5:5; 15:30; Col 1:8)

D.         We live by the Spirit and not by the law or the flesh (Rom 7:6; 8:1–16; 2 Cor 3:3, 6, 8; Gal 3:2–3; 5:16–18; 5:25), being transformed into God‘s spiritual nature (2 Cor 3:17– 18), as opposed to fleshly men who live by natural instincts and not by the Spirit (Jude 1:19)

E.          Confirmation that we are God‘s children (Rom 8:16–17; Gal 4:6) and thus grants us access to God (Eph 2:18)

F.          Intercedes for us when we don‘t know how to pray (Rom 8:26–27; Jude 1:20)

G.         The true nature of the kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy in the H.S. (Rom 14:17*; 15:13)

H.         The Spirit indwells our bodies (1 Cor 3:16; 6:19; Eph 2:22; Php 2:1; Heb 6:4; 1 Pet 4:14; 1 John 3:24; 4:13) and unifies the body of Christ (Eph 4:3–4); Through him we contact and worship God (Php 3:3)

I.            He grants us spiritual gifts (Rom 12:6–8; 1 Cor 12:4, 7–12; Eph 4:11–13), fruit (Gal 5:22–23), and armament (Eph 6:17–18)

V.         Miscellaneous

A.         Sins Against: Blasphemy of the H.S. (Mt 12:31–32; Mk 3:29; Luke 12:10; Heb 10:29); and lying to the H.S. (Acts 5:3, 9); resisting the H.S. (Acts 7:51), and grieving the H.S. through gossip (Eph 4:30); or putting out his fire (1 Th 5:19)

B.         Salutations: (2 Cor 13:14)

C.         ―In the Spirit‖ (Rev 1:10; 4:2; 17:3; 21:10

D.         Uncategorized (Rom 8:23; 1 Cor 7:40; Gal 4:29; 5:5; 6:8; 1 Th 4:8)

                                        Filling, Indwelling & Baptism of the Holy Spirit

                                                                   By Mark Moore

Each of these three terms refers to a particular aspect of the Holy Spirit‘s interaction with us. Caution: Biblical terms are sometimes slippery. They don‘t stay precisely where you put them and they often ooze over into one another. In other words, these definitions do not have scientific precision and will overlap to some degree into the others depending on the passage you‘re in. However, the texts in which these terms are found still give a general sense of their meaning.

I.                   Filling

To be filled with the Holy Spirit essentially means that a person is empowered by the Holy Spirit –  s/he is controlled by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:15, 41, 67; 4:1; Acts 2:4; 4:8, 31; 6:3; 7:55; 9:17; 11:24; 13:9, 52). In the same way that a demoniac is possessed by a demon, so a

Christian should be possessed by the Holy Spirit (cf. 1 Cor 2:9–3:4; Col 1:10; Gal 5:16; Eph 4:30; 1 Thess 5:19). The Bible describes this state as ―filled with the Spirit.‖ This has implications as to how a Christian walks, behaves, and speaks. In particular, the Holy Spirit is interested in empowering us to live Godly lives and enabling us to speak boldly our witness for Christ. Quite often, in fact, right after reading the phrase ―Filled with the Spirit‖ one reads an account of a person proclaiming the good news of Jesus. 

Being filled by the Spirit, however, doesn‘t necessarily mean a person is saved, merely that s/he is used by the Spirit to accomplish a particular task. The Spirit can empower unsaved people to accomplish great things for God (case in point: Balaam). Thus a non-Christian can be filled with the Holy Spirit and a Christian may not be. For example, Paul urges Christians to be filled – assuming that they are not fully filled – by being controlled by the Spirit rather than by wine (Eph 5:18). Again, Peter, post-Pentecost, was said to be filled afresh with the Spirit and thus empowered to proclaim the gospel (Acts 4:8). In short, being filled means being empowered and this is not equivalent to being saved.

II.                Indwelling of the Holy Spirit

This is the term that means a person is saved. It describes the mystic union between a believer and the creator. Sometimes it is referred to as the ―gift‖ of the Holy Spirit (John 7:37– 39; Acts 11:17; Rom 5:5; 1 Cor 2:12; 2 Cor 5:5), at others times it is called an ―anointing‖ (Luke 4:18; Acts 4:27; 10:38; 2 Cor 1:21; 1 John 2:20, 27), or even a ―seal‖ (2 Cor 1:22; Eph 1:13; 4:30). Whatever it is called, it is essential for salvation (Rom 8:9; 1 Cor 6:19). If we are not indwelt by God‘s Spirit, we are not saved.

A couple things need to be clarified here. First, the indwelling of the Spirit is not an event that happens to us, but a relationship between us and God. It is neither hocus-pocus, nor mechanical. It is not something measured or weighed. It is the covenantal love we share with God through the blood of Christ. While filling may be an event that happens to us and then passes, indwelling is that permanent adoption into God‘s eternal family.

Second, because many confuse indwelling with filling, they talk in terms of being permanently filled with the Spirit. You‘ll sometimes hear things like, ―You can‘t be more filled than being full – if you have the Holy Spirit you have all of him.‖ or ―Christians must leak if they need to be refilled with the Holy Spirit.‖ We should avoid such silly talk. It is misleading to press the metaphor of the filling of the Holy Spirit into physical descriptions. The Holy Spirit doesn‘t fill us in the same way water fills a jar. Therefore, Christians can need fresh filling of the Holy Spirit. Although we will never need a fresh indwelling – that is a permanent state granted through God‘s grace.

III.             Baptism of the Holy Spirit

The baptism of the Holy Spirit was originally prophesied by John the Baptist (Mt 3:11; Mk 1:8; Luke 3:16; John 1:33; Acts 1:5). Jesus somehow inundates believers in the Spirit (as opposed to baptizing unbelievers with fire). Now what exactly is this baptism? Here‘s what we know for sure. It is identified twice in the book of Acts (2:1–4; 10:44–46; 11:16). Here we find the Apostles‘ (cf. Acts 1:26; 2:1, 5, 7, 14, 37) and Cornelius‘ household speaking in tongues as evidence of God‘s approval. At Pentecost, God was validating the Apostles as spokesmen and witnesses of the Resurrection. At Cornelius‘ house, God was validating the first Gentiles as bonafide prospects for conversion. In neither case was the Baptism of the Holy Spirit equivalent to nor necessary for salvation. The Apostles were already saved and Cornelius commenced to be baptized in water according to the normal first-century practice of Christian conversion. Bottom line: The only two times the NT identifies the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, it was not for salvation but for approval. Traditionally, the Christian Church of the Restoration Heritage has held that these two episodes alone constitute the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Could the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, however, refer to more than just these two events? When John prophesies about this baptism (Mt 3:11), he seems to promote it as an experience the whole crowd could receive by accepting Jesus. Thus, our initial impulse is to look for a broad fulfillment of this promise, not just two incidents. This has been the stance of the Pentecostal church. They argue that a person is saved and sometime later has a rather phenomenal "experience," in which s/he feels "slain".  Speaking in tongues, which should be received by all believers, becomes proof of the baptism in the Spirit. This is seen as the stage of maturity where a believer accepts his/her full blessings in Christ. The problem with this view is that the Bible does not support a two-stage conversion, nor does it indicate that a tongue is a gift for every believer.

So how can the Baptism of the Holy Spirit apply to every believer? Let us offer a third view. Every Christian receives the baptism in the Holy Spirit, but it is not necessarily received with the supernatural Holy Spirit phenomena.  This takes place, for the most part, at the moment of conversion and baptism, (consider Acts 8 and 19 as possible exceptions).  As I am baptized in water, Jesus, as the baptizer of the Spirit, inundates me in his Spirit.  I become immersed in God and water.  I come into Him and He comes into me.  Since water immersion is also connected with the Spirit (Mt 3:11; John 3:5; Acts 1:5; 2:1–4; 10:44–46; 11:16; 19:1–6; Titus 3:5), that too may come under the umbrella of being baptized with the Holy Spirit. Both 1 Corinthians 12:13^[1] and Ephesians 4:5 would support such a connection. We come into a relationship with the Holy Spirit through the blood of Jesus. This is enacted by water immersion (Rom 6:1–4; Gal 3:27; Col 2:12). Thus, ―The Baptism of the Holy Spirit‖ is an umbrella term that specifically describes Pentecost and Cornelius yet also appropriately describes what Jesus does to Christians at the point of conversion.

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

By Mark E. Moore

I.             Definition

A.         Words used to describe it

1.           Pneumatikon—Things pertaining to the Spirit

2.           Charismaton—Gift, that which is given (Rom. 1:11; 5:15–16; 6:23; 11:29; 12:6; 1 Cor. 1:7; 7:7; 12:4, 9, 28, 30–31; 2 Cor. 1:11; 1 Tim. 4:14; 2 Tim. 1:6; 1 Pet. 4:10).

B.         "Extraordinary powers, distinguishing certain Christians and enabling them to serve the church of Christ, the reception of which is due to the power of divine grace operating in their souls by the Holy Spirit," Thayer, Greek/English Lexicon, p. 667.

II.          Description

A.         The greatest gift of God is salvation in Jesus (Rom. 5:15–16; 6:23).

B.         Given by God through the Spirit (1 Cor. 12:6–7), and sometimes through the laying on of hands of the Apostles (Acts 6:6 [cf. 6:8 & 8:6]; Acts 8:17–19; 19:6; Rom. 1:11; 2 Tim. 1:6) or even the laying on of the hands of the Elders (1 Tim. 4:14), [Note:  The gift in this case was not identified as a gift of the Spirit]. C.            "God's gifts and his call are irrevocable," (Rom. 11:29).

D.         The gifts are like parts of a body, each has a different gift which is to be used for the benefit of the whole (Rom. 12:4–6; 1 Cor. 12:4–31).  They are to be used for serving others (1 Cor. 12:7; 14:26; 1 Pet. 4:10), not primarily for pleasing oneself.

E.          There is a hierarchy of gifts (1 Cor. 12:28, 31; 14:5, 19) but all gifts are important (1 Cor. 12:14–26).

F.          We are to seek greater gifts (1 Cor. 12:31).  Love is greater than all gifts (1 Cor. 13).

G.         Everyone has some spiritual gift (1 Cor. 12:7, 11, 27).

III.       List of Gifts

[NOTE:  Numbers 1–10 do not involve the miraculous in terms of altering natural events.  Numbers 11–16 do involve the miraculous and some Christians, therefore, have questioned whether they still exist, based on 1 Cor. 13:8–10 and Eph. 2:20–22.]

A.         Teaching (Rom. 12:7; 1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 4:11), the explanation and application of truth.

B.         Ministering (Rom. 12:7; 1 Cor. 12:28), helping people by meeting their needs; it is expressed in a multitude of ways.

C.         Administration (Rom. 12:8; 1 Cor. 12:28), Oversight and execution of church affairs.

D.         Evangelist (Eph. 4:11), special ability at presenting the gospel to the unsaved.  It appears to be a leadership office of the church (Acts 21:8; 2 Tim. 4:5).  Note: This does not remove each Christian's responsibility to share his faith.

E.          Pastor (Eph. 4:11), that is, a shepherd who cares for, protects, leads and feeds the flock.

F.          Exhortation (Rom. 12:8), involves encouragement, comfort, admonishment and entreaty.  It is "practical preaching" which calls for action.

G.         Giving (Rom. 12:8), a special ability and willingness to use temporal means for the good of the church.

H.         Mercy (Rom. 12:8), providing comfort for sick, afflicted, outcasts, etc.

I.            Faith (1 Cor. 12:9), the ability to take God at his word, to trust him in daily needs and trials.

J.            Discerning Spirits (1 Cor. 12:10), this is apparently insight into another's spirit— motives, attitude, purpose.  The ability, through the H.S. to distinguish whether a person is honest or deceitful, good or bad, pure or impure.

K.         Apostle (1 Cor. 12:28; Eph. 2:20; 4:11), one sent out with a commission.

1.           Primary reference to the 12 only (Mat. 10:2; Acts 1:20–26), who would sit on 12 thrones and judge the 12 tribes of Israel (Luke 22:30), and whose names will be written on the 12 foundations of the New Jerusalem (Rev. 22:14).

2.           Paul was a special Apostle to the Gentiles (Rom. 11:13).

3.           Others are also called apostles who received a special commission from the church—Barnabas (Acts 14:14); James (Gal. 1:19; 1 Cor. 15:7); Apollos (1 Cor.

4:6, 9); Sylvanus and Timothy (1 Thess. 1:1; 2:6); Andronicus and Junia (Rom.

16:7); Epaphroditus (Phil. 2:25, in Gk.); Unnamed brothers (2 Cor. 8:23, in Gk.).  These, however, are not likely the gift of Apostleship.

L.          Prophecy (Rom. 12:6; 1 Cor. 12:10, 28; 14:1–40), speaking forth a message directly received from God.

M.        Miracles (1 Cor. 12:28), the ability to altar natural events.  This is the first of the "lesser" gifts according to (a) the word order and (b) the word "then" (epeita). N.    Healing (1 Cor. 12:9, 28, 30), the ability to restore health to a person's body.

O.         Tongues (1 Cor. 12:28), the ability to speak in a language which one has never studied or learned.

P.          Interpretation of tongues (1 Cor. 12:10, 30; 14:26–28), the ability to translate an unlearned language into your native language.

The Passing Away of the Miraculous

I.             Preliminary Considerations

A.         Just because Jesus is the same "Yesterday, Today and Forever," (Heb. 13:8), does not always mean that He works in the same way, especially in different dispensations.  We can see from Biblical history that this is not so.

B.         The Clustering of Miracles

1.           Miracles are not evenly spread throughout geography and time, but more like clusters surrounding certain people in time.

2.           Three great periods of miraculous manifestations:  

a.           Moses

b.           Elijah and Elisha

c.           Jesus and His Apostles

C.         Purpose of Miracles

1.           To validate the messenger, especially at times of new revelation.

2.           To show compassion (although this is less common).

D.         Historically one can trace the lapse of the miraculous gifts after the Apostolic age.  This is not to say that God does not or cannot do miracles, but only that the gift to perform them at will appeared to have ceased.

II.          1 Cor. 13:8–10, exegetical considerations:

A.         "Pass Away" (KATARGEO), used 3X's in the 3 verses means something like "to bring to no effect" or "to render powerless."  The word "Cease" (PAUO), means "to rest" or "to stop."  Neither word indicates an obliteration of the gifts so that they no longer exist, but simply a cessation of their active use. B. presentation of God's truth.

C.         perfect (presumably also relating to knowledge), comes.

D.         who would be expressed with a masculine, not a neuter.

E.          or "mature."

III.       Three Theories of the Perfect:

A.         The Canonical Scriptures 1.        Strengths:

a.           It fits the context of partial knowledge.

b.           It accounts for the historical decline of spiritual phenomenon between the 3rd and 17th centuries.

c.           It matches the use of "Mirror" (v. 12) with James 1:23 in relation to the Word.

                          2.      Weaknesses:

a.           The concept of NT canon was probably foreign to Paul.

b.           Only three spiritual gifts are mentioned as passing away.  You still have to explain the other gifts.

c.           The two words for "Pass away" and "Cease" do not indicate obliteration but inactivity.

B.         Maturity of the Church:  This may be of an individual church maturing in love, or of the Church universal maturing in its doctrine and apostolic foundations (cf. Eph. 2:20).

1.           Strengths:

a.           It fits the definition of the word "maturity" (cf. Mt. 5:48; 19:21; 1 Cor. 2:6; 14:20; Phil. 3:15; Col. 1:28; 4:12; James 1:4; 3:2).

b.           It fits the broader context of 1 Cor. 12–14.  See also Eph. 2:20; 4:11–16.

c.           Also fits well the historical decline of the gifts.

d.           This can be seen in conjunction with theory #1.

2.           Weaknesses:

a.           Maturity of individual churches does not practically happen.

b.           Church maturity does not fit as well the immediate context, especially vv.

11–12.

C.         End Times

1.           Strengths:

a.           Fits well the context of vv. 11–12.

b.           The word for "end times" is similar but not exact.  The normal word for end times is TELEIOS, not TELEION.

2.           Weaknesses:

a.           Discussion of eschatology seems out of place here.

b.           To say that these would pass when Jesus comes seems to be axiomatic—a self-evident truth.

IV.       Paradoxes of Tongues:

A.         A passage on love has become one of the most divisive texts for the modern church.

B.         Tongues is the least of the gifts (1 Cor. 12:10, 27–31; 14:5), and yet the most desired (at least the most practiced) of the charismata.

C.         Spiritual gifts have not made their possessors more spiritual.

D.         Because the experience of tongues is subjective, the argument will never be won.

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[1] All seven uses of the phrase ―baptism in/of‖ the Spirit are in the dative case. 1 Cor. 12:13 uses the same words as well as the same grammar as John the Baptist in speaking of Spirit baptism. Thus it appears that Paul and John are talking about the same thing.

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 1 CORINTHIANS 13:8–10:  THREE INTERPRETATIONS OF PERFECT

By Mark Moore

THEORY:	The Scriptures	Maturity of the Church	End Times
STRENGTH:	—Fits the context of partial knowledge. —Accounts for the historical decline of spiritual phenomenon between the 3rd and 17th centuries. —Matches the use of mirror (v. 12) with James 1:23.	—Fits the definition of the word (cf. Mt. 5:48; 19:21; 1 Cor. 2:6; 14:20; Phil. 3:15; Col. 1:28; 4:12; Ja 1:4; 3:2) —Fits the broader context of 1 Corinthians 12–14. See also Eph. 2:20; 4:11– 16. —Also fits well the historical decline of Gifts.	—Fits well the context of vv. 11–12. —Word use is similar but not exact. The normal word of end times is TELEIOS.
WEAKNESS:	—The concept of NT canon was probably foreign to Paul. —Only three spiritual gifts are mentioned as passing away —The two words for "pass away" and "cease" do not indicate death but inactivity.	—Maturity of the church does not practically happen. —Church maturity does not fit as well the immediate context, especially vv. 11–12.	—Escatology seems out of place here. —To say that these would pass when Jesus comes seems to be a self- supporting axiom.
PROPONENTS:	Seth Wilson Hodges Gromacki	Paul Butler Mark Moore Mark Scott	Lenski Clarke Charismatics

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HOLY SPIRIT COMING UPON

                                                                  By Mark Moore

I.             IN RELATION TO PROPHECY:

1.           Moses (Numbers 11:17, 29)

2.           70 Elders (Numbers 11:25)

3.           Balaam (Numbers 24:2)

4.           Saul (1 Sam. 10:6, 10; 11:6; 19:23)

a.            Evil spirit also came on him (1 Sam. 16:16, 23; 18:10; 19:9).

b.           He prophecied after the evil spirit (1 Sam. 19:23).

5.           Saul's men (1 sam. 19:20)

6.           Amasai (1 Chronicles 12:18)

7.           Azariah (2 Chronicles 15:1)

8.           Jahaziel (2 Chronicles 20:14)

9.           Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:20)

10.       Ezekiel (Ezekiel 11:5)

11.       Micah (Micah 3:8)

12.       Simeon (Luke 2:25)

13.       Bezalel (Exodus 31:3; 35:31), in relation to manual talents.

II.          IN RELATION TO JUDGES/WAR/LEADERSHIP

1.           Moses (Exodus 17:25–26)

2.           Joshua (Numbers 27:18)

3.           Othniel (Judges 3:10)

4.           Gideon (Judges 6:34)

5.           Jephthah (Judges 11:29)

6.           Sampson (Judges 14:6, 19; 15:14)

7.           David (1 Sam. 16:13; cf. Psa 51:11)

8.           Servant/Messiah (Isaiah 42:1; Mt. 12:18; cf. Mt. 3:16–4:1)

III.       IN RELATION TO "NATIONAL" BLESSING

1.           Isaiah 32:15; 44:3

2.           Ezekiel 29:29

3.           Joel 2:28, quoted in Acts 2:17

IV.       IN RELATION TO THE NEW TESTAMENT

1.           Mary (Luke 1:35)

2.           Miraculous gifts (Acts 6:6; 8:16; 19:6)

3.           Baptism of the H.S. (Mt. 3:11; Acts 1:5, 8; 2:1–4; 10:44–48; 11:15)

4.           Extra empowerment of Christians (Act 4:8, 31)

The following passages seem to indicate that indwelling is something different that the empowerment of "Coming Upon" or being "Filled With":  John 7:38–39; 14:16–17; Acts 2:38–39; Romans 8:9, 14–16; 1 Cor. 2:12; 6:19; 2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5; Gal. 3:14; 1 John 3:24.

             

THE GIFT OF TONGUES

                                                                  By Mark Moore

I.             Description

1.           Definition

a.            Heterais glossais—Other tongues.  This was the normal Greek phrase for foreign languages.

b.           It was the ability to speak in a language which one had never studied (1 Cor. 12:28).

2.           Supposed Difference between Acts and 1 Corinthians:

a.            Different direction:  Acts was public declaring; 1 Cor. 14:2, 28 "Does not speak to men but to God."  However, this is still in the context of the public assembly with unbelievers present (1 Cor. 14:22–23).

b.           Different Character:  Acts did not need an interpreter, the Corinthians did.  This may be easily explained by the church setting and the languages available.

c.            Different Purpose:  Acts, tongues are evidential; 1 Cor. they are for edification of the church (1 Cor 14:12–13).  However, 1 Cor. 14:4, 22 clearly state that tongues was evidential.

d.           The same terminology is used for both Acts and 1 Cor. to refer to tongues— HETERAIS GLOSSAIS.

3.           Anatomy of the Gift

a.            Scriptures:  Mk. 16:17–18; Acts 2:1–13; 10:44–48; 19:1–7; 1 Cor. 12–14.

b.           It is one of the signs that Jesus said would accompany those who believed (Mark 16:17).  NOTE: The credibility of this text has been highly questioned by Bible Scholars.

c.            Tongues were recorded in four cities in the Bible:

i.         Jerusalem (Acts 2:1–13) ii.            Caesarea (Acts 10:44–48) iii.            Ephesus (Acts 19:1–7) iv.            Corinth (1 Cor. 12–14)

NOTE:  All four cities were multi-cultural, multi-lingual centers.

d.           The content of Tongues was "the wonders of God" (Acts 2:11) and praises to God (Acts 10:46).

e.            They appear to be human languages (Acts 2:8–11; 1 Cor. 14:10).  The only mention of an Angelic Tongues is in Paul's hypothetical and hyperbolic question of 1 Cor. 13:1.

f.             Not every believer should expect to speak in tongues (1 Cor. 12:7–11, 29–30).  The questions of vv. 29–30 are phrased with a particular Greek construction which expects a negative answer.

g.            Paul would have liked all the Corinthians to speak in tongues (1 Cor. 14:5).

h.           We should not hinder the speaking of tongues (1 Cor. 14:39).

i.              Tongues is a sign for unbelievers (1 Cor. 14:22).

j.              Although 1 Cor. 14:14 indicates that tongues may be expressed as a prayer, the context is clear that this is a public and not a private prayer (1 Cor. 14:14–17).

k.            Tongues edify the individual whereas prophecy edifies the church (1 Cor. 14:4).

l.              Two or three at the most should speak in a tongue and then one at a time, and only with an interpreter (1 Cor. 14:27–28).

m.         All should be done orderly and properly (1 Cor. 14:23, 40).

n.           At some point in time tongues did/will cease (1 Cor. 13:8–10).

II.          Limitations

1.           At Pentecost, it appears that only the 12 spoke in tongues (Acts 1:5; 2:1, 7, 14, 37).

2.           Five understandable words in the church are better than 10,000 unintelligible words (1 Cor. 14:19).

3.           Many other religious groups have spoken in tongues.  This is NOT a phenomenon unique to Christianity.  Furthermore, this gift is easily manufactured and manipulated apart from any spiritual activity.

4.           There are three sources of spiritual power:  God, Satan, Man.  Tongues can be spiritually produced by all three.

5.           Tongues have been, since the days of Corinth, a divisive gift, although God did not intend it to be.  CAUTION:  The blame for such divisions can be equally laid at the feet of both those who practice tongues and those who do not.

III.       The Differences between the Modern Use of Tongues and the Early Church:

1.           Today tongues are used more privately than publicly.

2.           Tongues are used primarily in prayer rather than in preaching.

3.           Tongues is used primarily among believers rather than unbelievers (cf. 1 Cor. 14:22)

4.           Often many will speak in tongues at once rather than one at a time (1 Cor. 14:27) 5.         Often more than two or three will speak in a service (1 Cor. 14:27)

6.           Often there is no interpreter for the tongue (1 Cor. 14:28).

7.           In some circles, tongues are taught, rather than being received directly by the Spirit.

8.           In some circles, everyone is encouraged, and in radical cases, expected to speak in tongues (1 Cor. 12:7–11, 29–30).

                                         What We Know For Sure About Tongues

                                                                  By Mark Moore

1.            Tongues was the ability to speak in a language which one had never studied (1 Cor. 12:28). It is only mentioned in Mk. 16:17–18; Acts 2:1–13; 10:44–48; 19:1–7; 1 Cor. 12–14; and was only practiced in Jerusalem, Caesarea, Ephesus and Corinth, all major metropolitan and multi cultural cities. It is one of the easiest gifts to imitate and, in fact, is found in religions around the world from the most ancient times to the present.

2.            Tongues appears to be human languages, not angelic (Acts 2:8–11; 1 Cor 14:10). Heterais glossais was the normal Greek phrase for foreign languages. 1 Cor 13:1 is hyperbolic and hypothetical. In other words, Paul is clearly exaggerating in this text to make a point. There is no evidence that Paul ever spoke in a non-human language.

3.            All Spiritual Gifts are for the building up of the body. This is true for tongues as well. Thus, we can assume that Paul (and the Holy Spirit), intend for tongues to build up the body (1 Cor 14:1–8 [14:14–16, even praying or singing in a tongue is clearly to be interpreted for the benefit of the body]). Paul‘s statement that tongues edify the individual (1 Cor 14:4) is not meant as a compliment.

4.            Not every believer should expect to speak in tongues (1 Cor. 12:7–11, 29–30).  The questions of vv. 29–30, in Greek are constructed so as to expect a negative answer.

5.            We should not forbid the speaking in tongues; Paul would have liked all the Corinthians to speak in tongues (1 Cor 14:5, 39).

6.            Glossolalia is a lesser gift (1 Cor 12:27–30) which Paul said would pass away (1 Cor 13:8– 10).

7.            Uninterpreted glossolalia contributed to confusion in the Corinthian church (1 Cor 14:6– 17, 23). Five understandable words were better than 10,000 words of glossolalia without interpretation (14:19).

8.            There are parameters to speaking in tongues (1 Cor 14:27–28): (a) 2–3 max in one service, (b) must be interpreted, (c) must not be done all at once so as to create confusion.

9.            Tongues is a sign for unbelievers (1 Cor 14:22, cf. Acts 2), but without prophecy (or clear preaching), it will not lead unbelievers to repentance (1 Cor 14:22–25, cf. Acts 2). Verse 22 seems to contradict vv. 23–25. In light of the quotation from Isaiah 28:11–12, in which Israel‘s priests are compared to babbling drunkards, this can hardly be seen as a commendation. It seems like a backhanded compliment: Although tongues are supposed to be a sign for unbelievers, left uninterpreted, they only cause confusion outside the church as well as in.

10.        Tongues appear most during periods of revival, particularly in protest to rationalism, and are most prominent among the poor and socially disenfranchised.