Discuss Ephesians 4 Page 11

Hi Jessie Hill Something I keep in mind the spirit in us is perfect we do not sin walking by the spirit but the flesh is weak and the mind is in the category of the flesh, therefore the battle is in the mind putting on the mind of christ to control the flesh to walk by the spirit. Committing sin is not just having a thought it is the carrying out in action of the thought. Now if you dwell or constantly think of negative stuff its just a matter of time before an individual carries out what there dwelling on because eventually they will believe it in there heart. Proverbs Guard thy heart with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life. Whether its positive or negative anything an individual dwells on or thinks about enough they will eventually become or do. Guard your mind Romans 12:2, Ephesians 4:23-32, Philippians 4:8, Colossians 3:1-14 2 Corinthians 10:5. Prayerfully this helps.

Brother Chris In Ephesians 4:11 is written in this the age of grace the body of Christ which is still active that the reason for apostles prophets evangelists pastors and teachers is for the edifying or building up of the church which is still in existence, so therefore these ministries still have to be in operation in the body of Christ. I don't read anywhere in scripture where it says the apostolic age ended. I in fact I never read in Gods Word apostolic age?

Hello Gwen. In Ephesians 4:11-13, the Apostle Paul shows us how the Church, Christ's Body, would be comprised - for the building up of His Church. So, in this respect, both men & women can be so equipped by Christ's Spirit to be used of Him. However, in respect to "apostles & prophets", we can keep in mind that the apostolic line ended with the death of the last apostle (John), & the prophetic word (i.e. the true Word from God about future events) also ended at the Book of the Revelation. But the other appointments within the Church still go on (evangelists, pastors & teachers) & will do so till Jesus comes for His Church.

However, maybe you're thinking of women being pastors, as in leading the congregation & teaching from the Word. Then the Apostle Paul speaks again, to Pastor Timothy this time, in 1 Timothy 2:11-13, that as much as women too can teach from the Word, they are to refrain from doing so when in the Church. The word "pastor" means 'shepherd'. Certainly, women can shepherd others in their Christian walk, as there can be many 'pastors' in the Church (men & women). However, today, that word, 'Pastor', is generally applied to a 'Shepherd cum Teacher cum Preacher' when this appointment wouldn't be permissible for women. That is why Elders were appointed in every Church ( Acts 14:23), & they alone were given charge of the teaching, leadership & oversight of their congregations. Today, we see a number of congregations that have women taking charge of them & teaching from the pulpit. I can only refer to the Scriptures in response - they & the Churches will have to give account to God.

Matthew 12:31

Precious friends, How can a "member" of The Body Of Christ, whose sins have ALL "Been FORGIVEN," then commit an Unpardonable sin which can NEVER "be forgiven"?

According To God's Sound Doctrine of His Free Gift Of ETERNAL Life, we do Not have 'temporary life conditioned' on "committing the Unpardonable sin."

If man's 'idea of temporary life' is true, then that would NEGATE A Vast Multitude Of God's Scriptures, In His Sound Doctrine of God's ETERNAL Salvation: Link

Conclusion:

The "blasphemy of The Holy Ghost" is committed by Unbelievers who reject The Gospel of The GRACE Of God, and The ALL-Sufficient BLOOD Of CHRIST, for Forgiveness.

It is then IMPOSSIBLE for one With God's ETERNAL Life "Bestowed Upon them Forever" By God Himself, to commit "the Unpardonable sin, which can NEVER be Forgiven! Makes no sense, Correct?

However, a saint "in sin" Can:



1) GRIEVE Ephesians 4:30, And

2) Even QUENCH The Spirit Of God 1 Thessalonians 5:19, with results of

3) "losing reward when they arrive in Heaven, and stand at The Judgment Seat Of CHRIST!" 1 Corinthians 3:6-11 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 Amen?

Therefore:

"For The GRACE Of God that bringeth Salvation Hath Appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that Blessed Hope, and The Glorious Appearing of The Great God and our Saviour JESUS CHRIST; Who Gave Himself for us, that He might Redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." Titus 2:11-14

Amen?

Please accept my apologies for the previous errors...

When I was a young Christian in Tulsa, a brother would often say to me, "Don't mess with (Bible) college material. Stick with the basics!"

Which stung me. I had hunger and thirst for the Word of God. Tip=God approves of healthy appetite.

I had a vision not long after I saw a Big Table loaded With all kinds of Food! Jesus was on my right at the head of the table. I was hungry and I was shoveling food at my mouth. Everyone at the table looked at me with disgust at over my manners. Not Jesus. He smiled and laughed With me. (I heard his laughter)

He wants us to taste and see the goodness of the Lord.

We are to Edify each other, no matter where we are in our walk with Jesus. Depend on Jesus, and Holy Spirit. Prove all things through scripture.

1 Corinthians 14:26

How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.

Ephesians 4:16

From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself IN LOVE.

Ephesians 4:12

For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:

1 Timothy 1:4

Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: SO DO.

That's why we're here :)

Part II God's ETERNAL Assurance

ONLY God Knows the heart of Every man! Acts 15:8 Romans 8:27

"That we should be to The Praise Of HIS Glory, who first trusted In CHRIST! In WHOM ye also trusted, after that ye heard The Word Of Truth, The Gospel Of your salvation: In WHOM also after that ye believed, ye Were Sealed With That Holy Spirit Of Promise, Which Is The Earnest Of our inheritance Until The Redemption Of The Purchased Possession, Unto The Praise Of HIS Glory!" Ephesians 1:12-14

"Who Hath Also Sealed us, And Given The Earnest Of The Spirit in our hearts!" 2 Corinthians 1:22

"And grieve not The Holy Spirit Of God, Whereby ye Are Sealed Unto The Day Of Redemption!" Ephesians 4:30

"And such were some of you: But ye Are Washed, But ye Are Sanctified, But ye Are Justified In The Name Of The LORD JESUS, And By The Spirit Of our God!" 1 Corinthians 6:11

"But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren Beloved Of The LORD, Because God Hath From The Beginning Chosen you To Salvation Through Sanctification Of The Spirit And belief Of The Truth!" 2 Thessalonians 2:13

"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, But According To HIS Mercy HE Saved us, By The Washing Of Regeneration, And Renewing Of The Holy Ghost!" Titus 3:5

God's OPERATION?:

God Made us worthy for inheritance of saints! Colossians 1:12

God Delivered us From the power of darkness! Colossians 1:13

God Put us In The Kingdom Of HIS Dear SON! Colossians 1:14

God Justified us "...Freely By HIS GRACE Through The Redemption That Is In CHRIST JESUS!" Romans 3:24

God "Reckons Debt To those proud who work" For Salvation! Romans 4:4

In GRACE, To him/her "that worketh not, but believeth on HIM that Justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness!" Romans 4:5

God, Through Paul, States: "...David also describeth the blessedness of the man [ /woman ], unto whom God Imputeth righteousness Without works!" Romans 4:6

to be continued in Part III

because they don't know how to walk in the ways of God for themselves. Similarly, there comes a time in every Christian's life when he has to learn to do things for himself. David said, "Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child" ( Ps. 131:2).

In a church I served, there were two older ladies who were spiritual babies. Even though they had been saved for a long time and were baptized in the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues, they were the biggest babies in our church. They needed a lot of attention and would miss church on Sunday just so I would visit them on Monday!

Christians ought to grow up enough so that they don't always need someone to visit them, pump them up, pray for them, and feed them. They need to grow up so they can help somebody else.

EPHESIANS 4:14. CHILDHOOD

14 That we henceforth be no more children.

Children can be a handful! They are often curious and like to get into things. One time I came in with a sack and put it on the kitchen table. In no time at all, one of my young granddaughters was in the sack, wanting to know what was in it. Spiritually immature children get into things too. They poke their noses in places where they shouldn't. They are always in other people's business. Another thing about children is that they have never learned the value of silence.

Sometimes people say something hurtful and afterward say, "Oh, I was only joking." No, they weren't! They were being mean and hurtful with their words and then were trying to cover it up by saying it was a joke. Proverbs 12:18 (NIV) says, "Reckless words pierce like the sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Psalm 141:3 says, "Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips." We need to watch what comes out of our mouth. Our words should lift others up, not tear them down ( Eph. 4:29).

We were wounded and needed help. Proverb 18:14, Is. 53:5. Be quick to forgive yourself.

Beloved, you need to let this go. Forgiving ourselves is mandatory. :) I read this years ago and kept it. Maybe it was for you. You were a baby Christian when that happened.

Ephesians 4:11-15

Did you notice in verse 15, Paul tells the Christians in Ephesus to "grow up into him in all things? Evidently, Paul didn't think that the Church at Ephesus had grown up yet. He also said in verse 13, "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, UNTO A PERFECT MAN."

In The Amplified Bible, this phrase is translated, "that we might arrive at really mature manhood." In these verses, Paul is encouraging us to reach spiritual maturity. He is encouraging us to grow up spiritually.

Throughout the New Testament, we see a striking similarity between spiritual and physical development. In fact, there are three stages of spiritual development that correspond to physical development. They are: babyhood, childhood, and manhood.

Even though a person can be a born-again Christian for many years, he can still be in either the babyhood or childhood stage of development in certain areas of his life. As you take a look at each stage of spiritual development, you may see where you need to grow in certain areas.

BABYHOOD

1 PETER 2:2. As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.

Newborn babies require a lot of work.

In the same way, you can't expect young Christians to do for themselves. You need to follow up with them after they first come to your church and encourage them to return, or at least to get involved in another good church. They don't understand much about the things of God, so you have to spend a lot of time teaching and counseling them.

They'll come crying on your shoulder about this, that, or the other thing. They don't have a lot of confidence in their own prayers, so they'll ask everyone they see to pray about the same thing over and over again. You have to carry them, so to speak, because

Page 1

Good morning brother Chris!

Oh, the power of this discussion! So much to share together and expand our minds in the Spirit.

Your last post opens a wealth of information contained in both the Old and New Testaments as we know them.

We must agree that we have, and will keep, very separate views of the story of the beggar, Lazarus. I have no problem with our differing views as it is my firm conviction, that with few verese excluded, God reveals truth on an individual basis. This is where we two are on this scripture.

My personal belief is that ALL souls do, and always have, leave the body and go to a "holding place" until the gathering of the church by Christ. Further, I do not believe there is a "chasm" between the good and bad souls across which the two sides can see and talk with each other; prior to the resurrection or afterward.

Revelation 20:14 says that death and hades, Greek, (Sheol Hebrew), are thrown into the lake of fire. Why? Because they are no longer part of God's realm - death will be absent in eternity and the residence of the souls is unnecessary because of the judgment of the non-believer in verse 20:11.

I believe Revelation 20:14 explains the place all souls reside after death until the gathering of the church and the following judgment of the lost. If the place is named, its location is not. However, it does exist and verses indicate Christ visited Sheol during the three days prior to the resurrection - 1 Peter 3:18-20; Ephesians 4:9-10, (see Psalms 68:18, Isaiah 61:1-2, and Luke 4:18).

Why would Christ visit the souls in Sheol? All covenants before that of Christ did not include salvation, only atonement for sin by animal blood. The spirits of all that died prior to the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ were given the chance to acknowledge Christ and His salvation to allow them to be participants in the salvation provided by the resurrection.

God would have none perish in the eternal fire as He is love.

See 2

Yes Hope, I would agree with what you've shared there. But I see that Jesus also gave some believers to be "evangelists, pastors, & teachers" ( Ephesians 4:11). The apostolic period & the day of prophetical utterances had finished with the close of The Revelation, but the Church still has others so equipped by the Spirit to carry forward that Word, to teach & evangelize what the apostles & prophets first delivered to us.

There have been many prophets as you would know (mostly self-acclaimed in the cults), & we see the worth of their prophecies. Of the prophecies I've heard today, there has been no more given than what a teacher of God's Word shares under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Have you heard anything that has already not been declared? Bless you, sister.

Amen Brother Alex, you are right, ALL (in the fullness of time)( Ephesians 1:10) are going to be MADE ONE, exact duplications of CHRIST (the SEED).

Ephesians 4:4 ....ONE BODY (Christ), ONE SPIRIT (God the Father) ....

1 Timothy 6:16...Who (Christ) ONLY hath IMMORTALITY, dwelling in the light....

1 Corinthians 15:53 ....this mortal must PUT ON (CHRIST) immortality.

1 Corinthians 15:54 .... DEATH is swallowed up in victory (LIFE) (THE WORD)...

1 Corinthians 3:22-23 ....all(BODY and SPIRIT) is yours, ye are Christ's (the body), Christ is God's (the Spirit).

Very interesting comment Grace. I found it very interesting as to point number 1 and the use of the Lazarus story.

I am not a Bible scholar, not even close. I ask for the God Yahweh to lead me to the truth He will provide for me. Yes, I do not believe all scripture has the same meaning for all believers; it is tailored to the individual.

With that stated, I question the verses used in your first point in that there is no scriptural basis for the story of Lazarus being more than a parable to emphasize the difference in eternity between the believer, even though I find no evidence Lazarus was described as even a devout Jew. But the rich man most likely was due to being rich.

Lazarus being on the bosom of Abraham was a ploy to magnify the revered position of the devout Jew - descended from Abraham. The rich man being separated from Abraham would be the ultimate blow to a Jew - loss of contact with the father of the Jews.

The story of Lazarus has nothing to do with the immediate passing of the spirit to either heaven or paradise. It is simply an allegory to emphasize the correct use of wealth to care for the unfortunate.

This parable has a twofold message to the audience. First, the social position of a person has no relevance to God's view of the individual. Second, neglect of the needs of a fellow human will not go unnoticed by God in His judgment of an individual.

Reread the complete chapter of Luke 16. This is imperative to understand the context and purpose of the story of Lazarus. Christ was speaking of the misuse of resources given to one individual by God in respect to caring for the needs of the unfortunate.

Your use of Revelation 6:9-11 is also interesting in that just when on the judgment timetable did it occur.

I would be most interested in your interpretation of Ephesians 4:9.

I enjoyed your comments, however, I fail to see where the first resting place of the spirit is clarified.

1 Thessalonians 5:23

Precious brother Chris says: "I cannot find a suitable answer for," and asks Great Questions:

Where does the spirit of man go? Ecclesiastes 12:7 cp James 2:26

me: Does the soul also depart? Genesis 35:18

Is there a holding place for such? And where could this place be?

1) Before The Resurrection Of The LORD JESUS CHRIST, the paradise 'hold' was in "the heart {lower parts} of the earth" Matthew 12:40 Ephesians 4:9, Abraham's bosom, across a chasm from the 'torment' hold Luke 16:19-31 cp Luke 23:43

2) After The Resurrection Of The LORD JESUS CHRIST, paradise is now with The Throne Of God {Third Heaven?}, and Body Of CHRIST 'members' Immediately, upon physical death {'sleep' is the metaphor for the 'dead body'} "Depart to be WITH our Blessed God And Saviour, JESUS CHRIST!" 2 Corinthians 5:6,8 Philippians 1:21,23 'Confirmed' By:

3) ...Those 'asleep In JESUS'..." {metaphor for 'resting' in JESUS}, "...Will God {JESUS} Bring With HIM!" 1 Thessalonians 4:14 At our Great GRACE Departure! 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 Amen?

4) Is the "sleep/rest" UNconscious? Scripture?: Luke 16:19-31 cp Revelation 6:9-11

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Ed Bedore says: "A proper understanding of what the Bible teaches about Hell, Sheol, Hades, and the Grave dispels confusion over what happens to the soul at the time of physical death and guards against being led astray by those teaching the false doctrines of soul-sleep, eradication of the soul, the universal reconciliation of mankind, and the annihilation of the lost.":

More can be learned from his Excellent Article about this Bible Doctrine:

Hell, Sheol, Hades, Paradise, and the Grave by W. Edward Bedore

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Please Be Richly Encouraged, Enlightened, Exhorted, and Edified!

( 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:3-9; Ephesians 3:9 = Grace/Mystery fellowship {Romans - Philemon}, For ALL "to SEE," today,?): Link

"Speak truth each one of you with his neighbor."

Ephesians 4:25

2 Timothy 3:16,17

Psalm 83:18

Precious friends, According To Scriptures, God Only has 'ONE' baptism, today, Under GRACE!

Further, it is 'impossible' for The 'ONE' Baptism to be 'physical' water, Since IT Is The 'Spiritual' OPERATION Of God, inducting 'members' Into The 'ONE' Body Of CHRIST, Under GRACE! Ephesians 4:5 and 1 Corinthians 12:13 Please Be 'Richly' Encouraged!:

ONE Baptism: Link

Part II OR: Baptism Of Repentance For The Remission Of sins?:

God's Word Of Truth, Rightly Divided, 'Shows water' is NOT Under God's GRACE, Today:

(1) Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve 'Were Sent' to water baptize!

The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =

A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" {separate "study" IF you wish...} ( Matthew 3:5-6 Mark 1:4 Luke 3:3 John 1:31 Luke 7:29-30 Acts 10:37 Matthew 28:19 Mark 16:16 Acts 2:38 Acts 22:16 Ezekiel 36:25 John 18:35 Exodus 19:6 ) +

B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3 Matthew 3:11 Mark 1:8 Mark 16:17-18 Luke 24:49 Acts 2:17-18 Acts 2:38 Acts 8:15-17 Acts 11:16 )

Prophecy/Law

Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15 ) From Things That Differ!:

(2) Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:

Paul 'Was Not Sent' to {water} baptize! Why Not?:

Today: 'Only ONE' Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION, Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5 Colossians 2:12 Galatians 3:27 Romans 6:3-4 1 Corinthians 12:13 )

--------------------------------------------------

Thus, This ONE Baptism Is Performed, By God, Today, Under God's GRACE/MYSTERY Program, when the believer "confesses Jesus as Lord and Savior and believes that He died and rose again, and God Saves them" in the twinkling of an eye.

Thus, "water baptism" Is Scriptural, But Dispensationally, "was for the Previous Law/Prophecy Program" of God, For ISRAEL!

Conclusion, water baptism is Scriptural, but, TODAY, is UNdispensational! Amen?

More spiritual understanding of 'Prophecy vs MYSTERY':

Link

Precious friend, 'rather' than twisting a few fragmented, out-of-context, Misunderstood 'pet' verses of Many 'traditional' religious sects, "God Has A Better Way, 'Approved' Unto HIM!" Of Course, 'Not' Overlooking Neither 1 Corinthians 12:13, Nor Ephesians 4:5 For "The Body Of CHRIST," Today, Amen?:

God's Word Of Truth, Rightly Divided, 'Shows water' is NOT Under God's GRACE, Today:

Link

Of course if one is 'not yet' saved Correctly, Under GRACE, Today, then there Is 'No Sense' discussing water baptism at all! 1 Corinthians 2:14 Amen?

1 Corinthians 12:13 God's ONE Baptism for The Body Of CHRIST, Under GRACE/Mystery:

Precious friends, Please Be Encouraged/Edified in This Important "study" of three baptisms:

God's Word Of Truth, Rightly Divided, 'Shows water' is NOT Under God's GRACE, Today:

(1) Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!

The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =

A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" {separate "study" IF you wish...} ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6) +

B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16)

Prophecy/Law

Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things That Differ!:

(2) Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:

Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:

Today: 'Only ONE' Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION, Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4) ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) --------------------------------------------------

Thus, This ONE Baptism Is Performed, By God, Today, Under God's GRACE/MYSTERY Program, when the sinner "believes in CHRIST, that He died and rose again, and God saves them" in the twinkling of an eye.

Thus, "water baptism" Is Scriptural, But Dispensationally, "was for the Previous Law/Prophecy Program" of God, For ISRAEL!

Conclusion, water baptism is Scriptural, but, TODAY, is UNdispensational! Amen?

Precious friends, Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!"

( 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:3-9; Ephesians 3:9 = Grace/Mystery 'fellowship,' today?)

God's 'Simple' Will: Link

Hello Lily. If we say that the Holy Spirit is a person, some people might think that we believe in two gods. So that word (person) can often be unsuitable or confusing to some.

It's best to understand the Holy Spirit (& Jesus) as living parts or emanations from the One God. Just as Jesus, before His incarnation (i.e. coming to Earth in human form) was the Word of God ( John 1:1-14), so to the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God sent out to accomplish God's Will. Neither the Word of God (Jesus) nor the Holy Spirit are ever independent of God - all are equally One & eternally One - God wouldn't be Who He is without the Word & the Holy Spirit.

But when we read in the Bible of the Holy Spirit's Attributes & Work, we are actually seeing God manifesting Himself in the out-working of His Spirit. If you look up the following Scriptures, you can see God the Spirit manifested in a few ways:

a. He is intelligent ( 1 Corinthians 2:10,11)

b. He has feelings ( Ephesians 4:30)

c. He has a will ( 1 Corinthians 12:11)

d. He teaches ( John 14:26)

e. He guides ( John 16:13; Romans 8:14)

f. He commissions ( Acts 13:4)

g. He commands ( Acts 8:29)

h. He contends ( Genesis 6:3)

i. He intercedes ( Romans 8:26)

So, the Holy Spirit is not simply a force or a power of God, as some want to believe. He is God Himself because He goes about His Work as God desires (i.e. as if God was on Earth doing it). Nothing the Spirit does is contrary or independent of God, just as Jesus on Earth, perfectly fulfilled God's Will through His Words, His Life, His Work, & His Death (you can read Jesus' wonderful prayer to His Father in this respect). I hope that has been a little helpful. May the Spirit (the Living God) help you as you meditate on these things from the Word.

Brother Joel, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.

Hebrews 1:2 Hath in the last days spoken to us by his (the Father's) Son (Christ), whom he (the Father) appointed HEIR (Christ inherited EVERY THING AND EVERYBODY) of all things, by whom (by Christ) also HE (the Father) made the worlds (all creation, including man);

Let us (the Father and the Son) make (create) man in our (the Fathers and the Sons) image.

If your still in your FLESH, then you haven't YET become the IMAGE of the Father and the Son.

Ephesians 4:4 For there is ONE BODY (in Christ), and one Spirit (Life and Truth).

This is GIVEN to you when you no longer SUFFER IN THE FLESH.

1 Corinthians 15:54 .....DEATH is swallowed up in VICTORY (the works of Christ).

Precious Yunda, Please Be Encouraged/Edified in This Important "study" of three baptisms:

God's Word Of Truth, Rightly Divided, 'Shows water' is NOT Under God's GRACE, Today:

(1) Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!

The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =

A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" {separate "study" IF you wish...} ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6) +

B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16)

Prophecy/Law

Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things That Differ!:

(2) Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:

Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:

Today: 'Only ONE' Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION, Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4) ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) --------------------------------------------------

Thus, This ONE Baptism Is Performed, By God, Today, Under God's GRACE/MYSTERY Program, when the believer "confesses Jesus as Lord and Savior and believes that He died and rose again, and God saves them" in the twinkling of an eye.

Thus, "water baptism" Is Scriptural, But Dispensationally, "was for the Previous Law/Prophecy Program" of God, For ISRAEL!

Conclusion, water baptism is Scriptural, but, TODAY, is UNdispensational! Amen?

Precious friend, Yunda, Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!"

( 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:3-9; Ephesians 3:9 = Grace/Mystery 'fellowship,' today?)

Brother Chris, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.

Ephesians 4:4 There is ONE BODY and ONE SPIRIT .....

Christ, (which is, and which was, and which is to come Revelation 1:8); IS, the ONLY ONE BODY. The VESSEL of the ONLY ONE SPIRIT. We (the firstfruits of SPIRIT)( 1 Corinthians 15:23)( Romans 8:23) become the BODY OF CHRIST ( 1 Timothy 6:16)( 1 Corinthians 15:52-55).

The SPIRIT (the source of POWER) provides ALL, the BODY does all the LABOUR. Christ has everything needed at his disposal at all times; but the SPIRIT ONLY releases it (the power)to THE BODY at the given moment it is required. I am not saying that Christ IS NOT GOD, because HE IS; it takes both (faith and labour)( James 2:17) to be GOD, SPIRIT (the SOURCE) and THE BODY (the LABOUR).

Everything is done by SPIRIT (the WORKS of the FATHER) THROUGH (the labour) of the SON.

Christ emptied HIMSELF of the Father's glory ( John 17:5) that he had with him since the beginning, and became sinful flesh, to be destroyed.

He does't know in advance the second coming, because he is given what is required, as it is required ( John 5:19)( John 5:30), just as we are ( John 15:5). We are being created like him A VESSEL OF THE SPIRIT ( Revelation 10:11).

1 Corinthians 15:28 When ALL THINGS shall be SUBJECTED to him, then shall the Son ALSO HIMSELF be SUBJECT to him (the source of power) that put all things under him that GOD (Spirit, Truth, Life) may be ALL IN ALL.

Hebrews 2:8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put ALL in subjection under him, he left nothing that IS NOT PUT under him, But we see NOT YET (but we will see; at the resurrection of the dead) ALL THINGS put under him.

Obadiah 1:21 And SAVIOURS ( John 17:21) shall come upon mount Zion to JUDGE the mount of Esau (the world); and the kingdom shall be the Lord's.

Isaiah 26:9 ....when thy judgements are in the earth, the inhabitants of the world WILL LEARN RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Brother Larry, May CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.

Knowing ( Matthew 13:11) God (God is TRUTH) is all that matters.

God is LIFE, we are the vessel (pot) that HOLDS that LIFE.

YOU (sinful flesh) DIED on the CROSS, with CHRIST, YOU (the new creation of CHRIST's resurrection) will never DIE AGAIN ( Luke 22:35-36).

The vessel (our body of flesh will return to dust, at the harvesting of the new (SPIRIT) man), the new man (CHRIST IN YOU) will BECOME ONE (be married) to CHRIST.

Ephesians 4:4 There is ONE BODY (CHRIST), and ONE SPIRIT (the FATHER) ( John 17:21).

What CHRIST has always been, the SON of GOD, you will be.

Seek you first the Kingdom of God (created by the birth of truth and life) and all these things (comforts of life) will be added to you ( 1 Corinthians 4:7).

Amen BSP, may CHRIST IN US grace us with HIS wisdom and HIS understanding.

You are correct; when God purposes something, it's good as done.

1 Timothy 2:4 Who WILL HAVE (God's WILL; will be done)( Matthew 6:10) ALL MEN TO BE SAVED, and come to the KNOWLEDGE OF TRUTH.

1 Timothy 4:10 For therefore we both labour (in the WORKS OF GOD; not our work)( Colossians 1:29) and suffer reproach, because we trust ( Ezekiel 36:27) in the living God, who is the SAVIOUR OF ALL MEN, specially those who believe ( Philippians 1:29)

1 Timothy 4:11 There things COMMAND and TEACH.

God IS NOT searching for those who want to SERVE HIM; because if it were up to flesh, NO ONE would serve him. He has already CHOSEN US ( Ephesians 1:11); he is BRINGING US TO THAT TRUTH ( Ezekiel 36:27).

Flesh WILL NOT serve GOD; it is enmity to SPIRIT ( Romans 8:7) .

God has CHOSEN (through casting the die; if you will)( Ezekiel 20:37) a select FEW to be KINGS and PRIEST ( Revelation 5:10) with HIM in his kingdom.

Those, CHOSEN TO BECOME the IMAGE of GOD ( Romans 8:29)( Ephesians 4:24), will become judges with Christ' at the resurrection of the dead, back to their flesh ( 1 Corinthians 6:2)( Revelation 2:26-27). They (the dead) will be THEN brought to TRUTH.

Isaiah 29:9 For when thy judgements are in the earth, the inhabitants WILL LEARN RIGHTEOUSNESS.

None of this is a reproof to you, my brother in Christ, I am just ADDING to your comments.

Brother Glenn:

The wage of sin is death, the death of this body of flesh. Spiritual death is impossible because Spirit is IMMORTAL.

God is SPIRIT.

Ephesians 4:4 There is ONE BODY (CHRIST) and ONE SPIRIT (the FATHER) .....

The angels are MINISTERING SPIRITS; if LUCIFER was an angel, then he CAN NOT be destroyed, you can't DESTROY SPIRIT. Physical FIRE does nothing to Spirit.

Lazarus and the rich man is a PARABLE, not LITERAL.

If we have to answer for our sins then CHRIST death was in vain.

You are chastised for not believing (obeying) his words.

Philippians 2:13 For it is GOD (SPIRIT) that WORKETH IN YOU both TO WILL and TO DO HIS good PLEASURE.

When you ADD yourself into the equation it becomes the works of you hands, which is an IDOL.

In that day they will say unto me, DID WE NOT, etc., etc. and he will say unto them, depart from me ye workers of iniquity.

God uses his ministering spirits to be a LYING SPIRIT in MEN'S PROPHETS, ( 1 Kings 22:19-22) causing man TO DO HIS WILL.

God is SOVEREIGN, his plan for creation to be ONE IN HIM; will not fail.

1 Corinthians 15:28 And when ALL THINGS shall be subdued unto him (Christ), then shall the SON also himself be subject unto him (the Father) that put ALL THINGS UNDER HIM, that GOD (Spirit, Truth, Life) may be ALL IN ALL.

Basic Distinctions between Prophecy and the Mystery (C.R. Stam)

1) Concerns a kingdom: a political organization ( Daniel 2:44; Matthew 6:10)

Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From {RDf} "Things That DIFFER!":

1) Concerns a body; a living organism ( 1 Corinthians 12:12; 1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 4:12-16)

2) The kingdom to be established on earth ( Jeremiah 23:5; Matthew 6:10)

RDf

2) The Body given a position in Heaven ( Ephesians 1:3; Ephesians 2:5-6; Colossians 3:1-3)

3) Christ to be its King ( Jeremiah 23:5; Isaiah 9:6-7)

RDf

3) CHRIST Is The Living Head ( Ephesians 1:19-23; Colossians 1:18)

4) The Body Chosen In CHRIST "Before the world began," but "kept secret since the world began" ( Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:4-11; Ephesians 3:5-9)

RDf

4) The kingdom prophesied "since the world began" ( Luke 1:68-70; Acts 3:21)

5) Israel to be given supremacy over the nations ( Isaiah 60:10-12; Isaiah 61:6)

RDf

5) Jew and Gentile place on the same level before God ( Romans 10:12; Romans 11:32; Ephesians 2:16-17)

6)The Gentiles to be blessed by Israel's instrumentality ( Genesis 22:17-18; Zechariah 8:13)

RDf

6) The Gentiles blessed through Israel's obstinancy ( Acts 13:44-46, Romans 11:28-32)

7)The Gentiles to be blessed by Israel's rise ( Isaiah 60:1-3; Zechariah 8:22-23)

RDf

7) The Gentiles blessed through Israel's fall ( Acts 28:27-28; Romans 11:11-12; Romans 11:15)

More Distinctions In God's TWO Different Programs!:

Prophecy/Law: 15) The Two "Main" (of 12) baptismS = A) water, For remission of sins! ( Matthew 3:5-6 Mark 1:4 Luke 3:3 John 1:31 Luke 7:29-30 Acts 10:37 Matthew 28:19 Mark 16:16 Acts 2:38 Acts 22:16 Ezekiel 36:25)

B) "WITH" The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3 Matthew 3:11 Mark 1:8, 16:17-18 Luke 24:49 Acts 2:17-18, 38 Acts 8:15-17 Acts 11:16)

Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From {RDf} "Things That DIFFER!":

Mystery/GRACE!: 15) Only ONE Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION, Spiritually "Identifying" members In (The Body Of) CHRIST! ( Ephesians 4:5 Colossians 2:12 Galatians 3:27 Romans 6:3-4; 1 Corinthians 12:13) 'ONE' = not two...

Prophecy/Law: 16) Forgive others First, Then God Will Forgive! ( Matthew 6:14-15, 18:35; Mark 11:25-26; Luke 6:37)

RDf Mystery/GRACE!: 16) Forgive others Because CHRIST Has Already Forgiven us! ( Ephesians 4:32)

Prophecy/Law: 17) Taught how/what to pray! ( Matthew 6:9; Luke 11:2)

RDf Mystery/GRACE!: 17a) we Are Exhorted to "...Make our requests known Unto God!" ( Philippians 4:6) While, At The Same Time, God "Teaches":

17b) Concerning our infirmities, we "know Not" what to pray "as we ought," But "The Spirit Intercedeth For us, According To The Will Of God!..." ( Romans 8:26)

Prophecy/Law {earthly!}: 18) "watchmen," {as CHRIST Told the Jews On the earth!}, looking for The "wicked one, the deceiving man of Sin" And "signs" ( Matthew 24)

RDf Mystery/GRACE {Heavenly!}: 18) ambassadors {As CHRIST Told Paul, From Heaven!} Looking, Watching, & Waiting For The Holy One, The LORD JESUS CHRIST {From Heaven!} ( Romans 8:18, 19, 23, 25; 1 Corinthians 1:7; Ephesians 6:12-18; Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:2, 4:1-3; 1 Thessalonians 1:10, 5:5-11; 2 Thessalonians 3:5; Titus 2:13)

Please Be RichlyEncouraged!

Heavenly GRACE/Mystery fellowship, today? ( 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:3-9; Ephesians 3:9)

Precious Dan:

" Mark 16:14-17 So, yes Jesus does confirm that we must believe and be baptized! Amen"

God's Word Of Truth, Rightly Divided 'Shows water' is NOT Under God's GRACE, Today:

(1) Prophecy/Law for ISRAEL: The Twelve Were Sent to water baptize!

The TWO Main, of 12 baptisms =

A) water, For remission of sins/induction into Israeli "priesthood!" {separate "study" IF you wish...} ( Matthew 3:5-6) ( Mark 1:4) ( Luke 3:3) ( John 1:31) ( Luke 7:29-30) ( Acts 10:37) ( Matthew 28:19) ( Mark 16:16) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 22:16) ( Ezekiel 36:25) ( John 18:35) ( Exodus 19:6) +

B) WITH The Holy Spirit, Poured Out By CHRIST, for power, signs And wonders! ( Isaiah 44:3) ( Matthew 3:11) ( Mark 1:8) ( Mark 16:17-18) ( Luke 24:49) ( Acts 2:17-18) ( Acts 2:38) ( Acts 8:15-17) ( Acts 11:16)

Prophecy/Law

Rightly Divided ( 2 Timothy 2:15) From Things That Differ!:

(2) Mystery/GRACE! = our "apostle to the Gentiles" for The Body Of CHRIST:

Paul Was Not Sent to {water} baptize! Why Not?:

Today: 'Only ONE' Baptism = "BY" The ONE Spirit = God's OPERATION, Spiritually Identifying members In (The ONE Body Of) CHRIST!! ( Ephesians 4:5) ( Colossians 2:12) ( Galatians 3:27) ( Romans 6:3-4) ( 1 Corinthians 12:13) --------------------------------------------------

Thus, This ONE Baptism Is Performed, By God, Today, Under God's GRACE/MYSTERY Program, when the believer "confesses Jesus as Lord and Savior and believes that He died and rose again, and God saves them" in the twinkling of an eye.

So, "water baptism" Is Scriptural, But Dispensationally, "was for the Previous Law/Prophecy Program" of God, For ISRAEL!

Conclusion, water baptism is Scriptural, but, TODAY, is UNdispensational! Amen?

Please be Richly Encouraged, enlightened, exhorted, and edified!"

( 2 Timothy 2:15; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:3-9; Ephesians 3:9 = Grace/Mystery 'fellowship,' today?)

The apostle Paul basically gave us the same words in Ephesians 4:1-16. As we await the coming of the Lord, let us gird up our loins and become deeply committed to the Word of God and prayer. Starting with ourselves, let us endeavor to build accountability amongst the fellowship. Begin today by renewing our hearts, and spiritual mind, which delights greatly in the Words of the Lord. Help us all to find deep satisfaction and refreshing joy in His service at His feet.

Our nation needs it for the political and social climate before us. September 18, 2021

Dear Susan, I apologize IF I was unkind to you, as the " Ephesians 4:32 pop-up" indicates I am doing, trying to post Part I of my "study" to answer your important question about

"authority to raise the dead"? I guess it is not meant to be. :(