I love to talk to people about their relationship to the Creator. Someone loved me enough to help me better understand how I could come to be saved and to continue in a relationship with Him. As a way of thanking the Lord for my present relationship to Him, I have tried to express to others the beautiful message of the gospel that changed my life. First, let’s look at what God has done to bring eternal life for you and me. Then we can look at what the Bible defines as ‘being faithful’. It begins with a message called the gospel. Jesus has instructed His followers to go into the entire world and preach this gospel to every creature, Mark 16:15. It was so important that everyone was to hear it. As this gospel unfolds in the scriptures, we come to realize that it is the message of Jesus dying on the cross for our sins, His burial and His resurrection from the grave, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. When we see who this Jesus really was and is it causes us to want to be one of His disciples.

Who Is This Jesus?

When one reads the scriptures, it becomes clear that Jesus is God. Note how the Hebrew writer makes this clear when the Father in heaven calls His own Son God. “But to the Son He says: ‘Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your Kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions,” Hebrews 1:8-9 NKJV. The NIV translation says, No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known,” John 1:18. Even though Jesus is clearly described as God, He became a man for you and me. Hebrews 2:14 says, “Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death-that is, the devil.” In verses 17 and 18 he states, “For this reason he had to be made like his brothers in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” Jesus loved us so much that He was willing to leave heaven to become a man. He experienced all the temptations we encounter, but He never sinned. Now back in heaven, He is able to help Christians where He intercedes to God for them, Hebrews 7:25.

How tempting it must have been for Jesus to strike back, when the chief priests were torturing Him. Matthew 26:67-68 records, “Then they spit in his face and struck Him with their fists. Others slapped Him and said, ‘Prophesy to us, Christ. Who hit you?” In Matthew 27:27-31, Pilate’s soldier’s continued to torture Him, “Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around Him. They stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked Him. ‘Hail, king of the Jews!’ They spit on Him, and took the staff and struck Him on the head again and again. After they had mocked Him, they took off the robe and put His own clothes on Him. Then they led Him away to crucify Him.” After all this happened to Jesus, instead of being angry, His first statement from the cross was “Father forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” After the Savior went through so much suffering, it should indeed make us want to be faithful to Him. One of the reasons that we should want to keep our commitment to Him is that when He returns, He will come as our judge. But what does it mean to be faithful?

What Is Faithfulness?

Faithful is defined in the dictionary as trustworthy, fulfillment of promises, or obligations and a loyal member of any group. Vines Expository Dictionary of the Bible says it means to be trustworthy or reliable. It is interesting that the Bible states that the Lord is already faithful to us. “God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful,” 1 Corinthians 1:9. How does the Lord express what he considers faithfulness in us? In the parable of the ten virgins, He refers to the faithful servant as the one who did His will by using what the Lord had given him.

An Illustration of Faithfulness
 
For those who are married, it is not difficult to know if one is faithful to his or her spouse. What does it mean to be unfaithful? It not only means to be unfaithful sexually but also in his dedication to his spouse. For example, a person who has left his spouse and is living alone is considered unfaithful to her even though he is not involved in fornication. No one would report that he was faithful to her in a position such as this. The Bible teaches that we are “married to Christ,” Romans 7:4 and His family is the church, I Timothy 3:15. Since Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it, should we also be faithful to the very body He died for? Christ promised to save only those who are in the church, Ephesians 5:23. In Luke 12:46 the one who disobeys his master is considered unfaithful and is translated an unbeliever. In this chapter the faithful servant is contrasted with the unfaithful.

How Does God Express What Faithfulness Is?

“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. For this reason I am sending to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with what I teach everywhere in every church,” 1 Corinthians 2:4, I Corinthians 2:17. From these scriptures and others from the New Testament, all references to faithful members were those actively involved in their respective churches. Wives of the deacons were to be,” reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things,” 1 Timothy 3:11. No church would consider a deacon and his wife faithful if they were not actively participating in the activities of the church. Faithfulness always entailed the person being actively involved in the Lord’s work. They were to meet with the church in their assemblies. In fact, for the blood of Christ to continually cleanse from sin they had to be actively in fellowship with the saints. John makes this very clear when he wrote, “But we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin,” 1 John 1:7, Suppose a Christian breaks that fellowship and no longer meets with the saints, what then? The Hebrew writer says, “Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries,” Hebrews 10:23-27. A believer who deliberately absences himself from the church assemblies cannot build up a fellow Christian. Therefore, he cannot assist a brother or sister needing spiritual guidance.

The Lord Jesus allowed Himself to be tormented and killed for the sins of all people. Christians, however, are the only ones who have the advantage of a continuance cleansing. When a lost person decides to turn from sin and is immersed in a watery grave into His death, burial and resurrection, they are to have a new relationship with this Jesus, Romans 6:3-4. Their faithfulness in attendance, their giving to the Lord’s work and their remembering Christ’s death as they partake of the Lord’s Supper each Sunday plus their active service to God are presented as some of the ways they must conduct their lives to please the Lord. The Bible tells us that when a person exhibits these characteristics, he pleases the Lord. But suppose he turns from the Lord and His church that was bought with His own blood, and then what does God say? “For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the latter end is worse for them than the beginning. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them. But it has happened to them according to the true proverb: ‘A dog returns to his own vomit,’ and ‘a sow, having washed, to her wallowing in the mire,” 2 Peter 2:20-22.

Where Are You Spiritually?

Based on what the Lord has commanded, how are you doing spiritually? John stated, “Beloved, you do faithfully whatever you do for the brethren and for strangers, who have borne witness of your love before the church,” 3 John 5-6. Faithfulness to the Lord and to His church goes hand in hand. If you are struggling with this problem, please talk to a member of the church of Christ in your area. You need to be with God’s people and they need you. The Lord has things for you do to serve Him. Paul says, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh—- who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands-that at that time you were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ,” Ephesians 2:10-14. How may I help you?

Bob Danklefsen
Copyright 1992

The Best Form of Communication, The Written Word

There has been no other book in history that has been so carefully examined by its critics to see if it might be exposed to be a book of mere human origin. Many have said to me, “Who wrote the Bible?…men… not God!” It is important to investigate the facts when researching any subject to substantiate any claim made by its author. This is true in any field whether it be medicine, science, or historical claims in the field of archeology.

For example, today physical evidence proves the earth to be a globe moving through space at a rate of 12 miles per second. Yet many theories, some utterly ridiculous, have been proposed by man without a hint of evidence to back up the claim. They compare in no way with the accurate description in God’s word. “He hangeth the earth upon nothing” Job 26:7, and “…the circle of the earth…” Isaiah 40:22, written hundreds of years B. C. do not reflect the thinking of that day or the thinking up to the days of Columbus in the 15th century.

Long after the Old and New Testaments were written men believed that the cause of sickness was a result of an individual possessed by evil spirits. Yet the Bible identifies the exact animals that carry disease in their flesh, and if not properly cooked, could result in Trichinosis, pork worms, or some other sickness, Leviticus 11. It also teaches quarantine for those having the symptoms of a contagious disease, Leviticus 13:4-46. When one considers that this information was written over three thousand years before bacteriology became a science, it should cause one to look more seriously into this book. (Verbal communication can be altered as it is passed along. Written communication, when copied accurately, and preserved will not be). The Bible claims and demonstrates them both, Psalm 12:6-7; II Timothy 3:16.

The most important event in history, although rejected by most in the world, was clearly described hundreds of years before it happened. Isaiah claimed, “For unto us a child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulders. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6. This prophet wrote some seven hundred and forty years before the event was to occur. The virgin birth of Jesus was revealed in, Isaiah 7:14. His death for our sins was unfolded in the Fifty-third chapter. The fact that they nailed his hands and feet had been clearly told by David, the Psalmist, one thousand years B. C. Psalm 22:16-18. It also states here that they would cast lots for his clothing and that is exactly what happened, Matthew 27:35. David also confirms the resurrection of Christ in Psalm 16:9-10. See Acts 2:25-31. This resurrection to an exalted place in heaven is expressed in the Second Psalm and reaffirmed in Acts 13:27-41.

All these events were uniquely revealed hundreds of years before they happened to demonstrate that the Bible was written by inspiration and not through ideas set forth by mere men, II Peter 1:20-21.

Translations and the Original Writings

Living in the age that we do, it is easier to produce translations because of the availability of manuscripts which have been preserved or found, such as the Dead Sea Scrolls. Greek and Hebrew scholars are able to compare the early writings with each other and use the best modern word to convey the message of the originals.

When the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in the 1940’s, the entire book of Isaiah was intact. The Hebrew scholars felt this would be an excellent opportunity to correct and update this book. Careful examination of the manuscript revealed that corrections were not needed and thus, the project was dropped.

God made it clear that His word would not be lost, but would endure forever Psalm 119:160; Isaiah 40:8. He also has stated, “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness…“ II Peter 1:3. John 20:30-31 tells us that the scriptures were written to produce faith in Jesus so that they might come to have eternal life. Some day we will all be judged by Jesus II Corinthians 5:10 concerning our response to His word, John 12:48. Therefore, we are warned not to go beyond what is written, and to contend for the faith once for all given to the saints, Jude 3.

Some Shall Depart From The Word

Despite all the warnings not to add to or take from God’s word throughout the Bible, Deuteronomy 4:2; Proverbs 30:6; Revelation 22:18-19, man has departed from it, II Timothy 4:1. Paul states, “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, be- cause they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables, II Timothy 4:3-4. Peter also states that these false teachers would twist to their own destruction his writings as well as the rest of the scriptures II Peter 3:15.

How Have People Departed From God’s Word

Some have outright rejected the Bible as one’s sole guide to heaven by producing other books which they claim are either latter day revelations or are documents produced by the church which further explains the Bible. Every one of these books claims or implies that the Bible alone cannot be understood and thus, they are “helping” the reader to better understand God’s will today.

When one picks up the Bible; God is communicating to him in written form, II Peter 1:21. God guided those who wrote by inspiration, and He had Paul pen, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work, II Timothy 3:16-17. When He says something in the Bible, it is true as it is impossible for God to lie, Hebrews 6:18.

Man, on the other hand, believes he can improve on what God has already revealed and so he produces creed books, catechisms, manuals, articles of faith, constitutions, disciplines, and a host of other guidelines to produce new religious philosophies. Others have produced books they claim are inspired such as: “The Book of Mormon”, ‘‘The Great Controversy”, “Science and Health With Keys to the Scriptures”, “The Koran”, and even traditions produced by the leadership of the Roman Catholic church. When contrasting the teachings of man with God’s word, the Lord makes it clear that He will not recognize as authority the teachings of man, Mark 7:6-9.

Distinguishing Truth From Error

Jesus said, “Sanctify them by your truth, your word is truth,” John 17:17. This produces faith, “So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the worn of God,” Romans 10:17. Since God’s word is truth, anything in opposition to it would be sin, Romans 14:23b. For example, the Bible clearly condemns homosexuality, Romans 1:18-32; I Corinthians 6:9-11. Yet recent denominational conventions have voted to not only accept the life style, but to allow men practicing this vile act to preach in their pulpits. When one talks to a person in a group endorsing such a practice, they will say “we use the Bible at our church.” One must remember that to have a Bible on a table at the front of the building does hot usher one automatically into a right relationship with God.

“The Bible Doesn’t Say You Can’t”

The Bible would be several times larger if for every command there was a list of “dont’s”. When a mother sends her child to the store for bread, she does not need to list all other items on the shelves and tell him not to purchase them. When she lists what to get, it eliminates all others automatically. Even when the Bible does give some negative commands, they are often avoided or explained away. For example, Paul wrote to the church in Corinth that women were not to preach in the assembly, yet many groups allow women in the pulpits I Corinthians 14:34-35. Often when God gives a negative command, it is disregarded. Paul said, “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the traditions of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ,” Colossians 2:8.

A Big Danger

It is amazing to see so many different sects claiming that the Bible is their only guide. Yet they have set human guidelines which must be followed, and then once those standards are met, a group can follow any false concept beyond those limits and still be considered a brother in the faith. Let me illustrate this:

A large number of fundamental protestant religions are insistent that believers must properly understand the Godhead. Their literature extensively portrays a completely accurate rendering of the nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and this should be. However, this seems to be the only criteria upon which they extend fellowship to neighboring denominations. They are quick to deny fellowship to groups having latter day prophets and “way out” teachings on God, and yet, even they are perplexed over a group that claims to have a latter day prophet and yet understands properly the nature of God.

Even though they will not agree with a group that may pray to Mary, the mother of Jesus, as long as they accurately understand the God of the Bible, they will consider them brothers.

Truth Extends to More Than Just the Nature Of God

I’ve often asked those who consider accuracy on the Godhead the only test of fellowship, “How many doctrines of devils can one follow and still be in fellowship with God?” They usually answer correctly, “None.” Then we turn to I Timothy 4:1-3 and we read it together. Here it clearly describes doctrines of devils as: forbidding to marry and commanding to abstain from certain foods. Paul wrote concerning two men who had turned from the truth and were claiming the resurrection had already taken place, II Timothy 2:17-18. Paul encourages us to present ourselves approved by God by rightly dividing the word of truth, II Tim. 2:15. Although these groups accurately understood the Godhead, they had turned from the truth.

God’s Plan To Save Man

When the Bible is taken as a whole it brings to its readers a message of concern from its author. The theme is: someone is coming, someone has come, and someone is coming again. This is the story of the Christ, his death for all men, his resurrection from the grave to ascend to heaven, and his return, I Thessalonians 4:14-17. Those who accept Jesus’ death in their stead realize that faith is produced after hearing the gospel, John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9. This faith leads one to repentance – turning from the practice of sin to follow God, Acts 17:30-31. Those who have decided to make him Lord will confess him as the eunuch did in Acts 8:37. And it will cause one to want to obey the gospel, I Corinthians 15:1-4; Romans 6:3-5. When one is immersed beneath the water he’s simply demonstrating his faith in Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, Romans 6:17-18. The point of difference in the religious world is: does one receive salvation from sin before or after he obeys the gospel? Again, if we accept the whole counsel of God, the Bible answers this question “…when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,” II Thessalonians 1:7-8.

Most religious groups teach that one is saved simply by belief alone prior to their obedience to the gospel. The scriptures again are clear on the subject. Take for example the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who became the great apostle Paul. Almost all people are taught that he was saved from sin on the road to Damascus. However, when the entire account is read, we find Jesus telling him to go to Damascus where he would be told what to do to become a Christian. Ananias said, “And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord,” Acts 22:6-16. God places forgiveness after one has been baptized. Since He is Creator, He should have the choice concerning when He will save a person.

Manipulating God’s Word To Agree With Preconceived Ideas

Here are two basic reactions given when a Christian shares the gospel plan of salvation. One person may become defensive and say, “What about John 3:16, this says nothing about baptism?” The Christian can point out that it also mentions nothing about repentance, yet most teach repentance is necessary to receive salvation. It is not fair to use one part of God’s word against another.

The kind of heart the Lord is looking for is the person who will state, “I did not know that God’s word taught that a person was not saved until he was immersed, I Peter 3:21. I would like to turn to the Lord and be baptized so that my sins will be forgiven,” Acts 2:38. This is the attitude the Lord referred to in II Timothy 2:25-26.

We Will Be Judged By God’s Word

Jesus said, “He who rejects Me and does not receive My words, has that which judges him – the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day,” John 12:48. Paul said he received the gospel by revelation from Jesus, Galatians 1:11-12. He warned us, “Now brothers, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit so that you may learn from us the meaning of the saying, “Do not go beyond what is written,” I Corinthians 4:6.

If you really accept the Bible as your only and final authority, then you will want to become a Christian as the scriptures teach. Since Jesus purchased the church with his own blood, Acts 20:28, you will want to assemble with his people, Hebrews 10:23-25. If you inquire you will probably find a church of Christ in your area. When I first obeyed the gospel, I remember stating to the bishops of our congregation, “I’m going to study the Bible more intensely than I ever have in the past. If this is not the church described in the Bible, I will locate those who do and worship with them.” I am still in the Lord’s church and now rejoice that I am able to give an answer from the Bible for everything I practice in my service to God I Peter 3:15. If you would like to follow the scriptures as your final and only guide to heaven, or if you would like to see more evidence to confirm the Bible as our only communication from the Creator, please write to me.

Bob Danklefsen
Copyright 1983
T-25 3-22-90

On many occasions having had the opportunity to share the good news with people from various religious backgrounds, often they have made the statement, I need to ask my preacher about that because they have heard for the first time a Biblical principle not previously encountered. Rather than accept the statement made by Christ or an inspired writer, this person desires to examine why they had not heard the principle before. There is a danger in examining the feelings or teachings of mere men, and that is we too might be swayed to follow their teaching without God’s endorsement. An emotional tie to a person many times is stronger than ones love for Christ, John 12:42-43.

AUTHORITY

Paul in his letter to Timothy wrote “Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness” 2 Timothy 3:16. This scripture tells us if we have a prior opinion about a Bible doctrine, that if it cannot be supported biblically, then we have two choices: (1) Reject the scripture and possibly forfeit eternal life or (2) Obey it. “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God,” Romans 10:17. Thus we learn that faith is produced by God’s truth, John 17:17. Later in the book of Romans it says, “Whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” Therefore, if we believe and practice something religiously that is not found in the inspired pages, God calls it sin.

OTHER GOSPELS

To those in Corinth, Paul said man would teach other gospels, 2 Corinthians 11:4 and that the message would appear to be genuine, verses 13-15. Jesus had earlier told us to beware of false teachers, Matthew 7:15 ff,  because they will appear like the genuine thing. It is difficult to accept the fact that a friend or even a preacher might teach something which has no biblical foundation; yet using the gospel and man’s response to it, it can be demonstrated that such is being done today.

RESPONSE TO GOD’S GOSPEL

Paul tells us in his letter to Corinth that his message of good news is Christ and his crucifixion, I Corinthians 1:18-23. Later in the same letter he explains how one is forgiven of sin when he obeys the gospel, Romans 6:3-6, Romans 6:17-18 and also the punishment to those who obey not the gospel in 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE SAVED BY FAITH?

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shall be saved,” Paul told the Philippian jailer in Acts 16. Quite often a person will quote this verse as if it were the only salvation verse in the Bible and say, “See, this verse does not mention baptism.” There are a number of things not mentioned in this scripture such as Christ’s death and resurrection, repentance and baptism. May we then conclude that none of these other things are necessary for salvation? Of course we cannot.

God ask for an obedient faith, Acts 6:7. This tells us that faith is more than intellectual assent. God asks those who believe to express their faith by expressing repentance, Acts 2:38, by declaring their faith, Romans 10:9-10, and by demonstrating their faith when immersed, Romans 6:3:3-4. When a person responds to the gospel through these acts of obedience, God saves them from sin, Acts 3:19; Act 8:35-39, and Acts 22:16.

MAN OBJECTS TO GOD’S PLAN

After our Lord suffered for us so much, it is hard for me to understand why a person will say, “I know what Jesus said, but I know how I feel in my heart.” This is especially true in light of His statement in Luke 6:46, “Why do you call me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things that I say?” For example, many object to Christ’s statement in Mark 16:16. “He that believeth and is immersed shall be saved.” They will say, “I HAVE TO ASK MY PREACHER ABOUT THAT.”

I have asked this question, “Suppose your preacher says not to obey Christ’s command to believe and to be immersed to be saved (many reject the faith response in immersion to be saved from sin), which one would you obey—-the preacher or Christ? Almost all have responded, “Christ.” Then the question becomes, “Why ask your preacher at all if you plan to obey the gospel anyway?” Paul said that he did not confer with men to obtain an opinion on whether he should become a Christian or remain in the Jewish faith. (Read Galatians 1:10-16) Instead he obeyed the gospel when Ananias told him what to do, Acts 9:18, Acts 22:16.

“WE NEED TO PRAY ABOUT THIS”

Many have made this statement and yet have not understood that God has already spoken to them through His written word, I Peter I :22,23 and that a desire to reject the gospel could result in their receiving a delusion, 2 Thessalonians 2:8-14.

Again another important question to be asked is this: “Do you expect an answer to come from God which will be exactly the opposite of what he has asked you to do in his word?” Jesus said, “Depart from me; I never knew you, ye that work iniquity.” His statement NEVER clearly shows they had not responded as Christ had requested even though they were claiming to do things in His name, Matthew 7:21-23.

THE THIEF ON THE CROSS WAS NEVER IMMERSED

No one knows if the thief was immersed in response to the teaching of John the Baptist; the scriptures are silent on the subject. Mark 2:10 tells us Jesus had the power to forgive sins while he was on earth. Forty days after His resurrection, he stated, “Go preach the gospel and those who believe this message and are immersed will be saved from sin. One thing many have never understood is the fact ‘ that when one re-enacts the death, burial and the resurrection, Romans 6:3-6 it is then that God chooses to forgive that person. How could the thief re-enact Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection if he was still hanging on the cross and had not yet died? After all it was after Jesus’ resurrection that he stated, “He that believeth and is immersed shall be saved.” So it is easy to see how it was impossible for the thief to express a trusting faith in the death, burial and the resurrection, as it had not occurred.

IMMERSION IS A WORK

Many have made the statement that immersion is a work and they are correct, it is. But who is it a work of? It ‘is a work of God? John tells us that faith is a work, John 6:28-29 and it is evident that immersion is also a work of God. Jesus had asked in Matthew 21:25, “The immersion of John, where was it from, heaven or men?” They refused to answer, knowing full well they had never been immersed. The scriptures tell us that they had rejected the counsel of God, Luke 7:29-30. Jesus did His Father’s will when he died on the cross, Luke 22:42; Hebrews 5:7-9. When we read Mark 16:16 we have two choices, “My will be done” or “Thy will be done.”

HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT SHALL BE CONDEMNED

Preachers often state that the second half of Mark 16:16 does not mention immersion and therefore disqualifies the first part of the verse. God intentionally left it out. The following example will explain why God did not say, He that believes not and is baptized not shall be condemned.” “He that eats and digests what he eats will be filled; he that eats not and digests not what he has not eaten, will go hungry” This sentence becomes ridiculous with a double negative When one refuses to obey the first part of Mark 16:16, the lack of faith is enough to condemn him, John 12:48.

THAT’S YOUR INTERPRETATION….

Often the statement is made “that’s your interpretation” when one disagrees with another person on Bible statement. This happens many times when I am discussing the word “Buried” with one who believes in sprinkling infants. By turning to I Corinthians 15:3 and then letting them interpret that verse seems to clarify the whole discussion because no one has the nerve to reject the burial of the Savior. Since the same word is used to show man’s response in Romans 6:4, to deny the Lord’s command to be buried with Him is to deny His burial which would be a rejection of the gospel itself.

THIS VERSE DOESN’T MENTION IMMERSION

Many ministers will base their assurance of salvation on faith only and will quote Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8; or Romans 10:10 as the only basis for salvation. They state, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved doesn’t say you have to be immersed!” The verse does not mention specifically the term, but incorporated in the faith response must be repentance and immersion. Ephesians 2:5 mentions that by grace you are saved, yet does not mention faith. Would a person be honest with the scriptures to assume faith is not necessary because the verse mentions only the word “grace”? Of course not! On the day of Pentecost in Acts 2:38, no mention is made of faith or of confessing Christ, yet it is understood that those people had to have faith. The only honest way to determine whether a person is saved before or after being immersed is to examine the scripture containing the words baptism or immersion and the word saved or forgiveness of sins and then determine if salvation comes before or after this response. The following scriptures should be studied: Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3-4; 1 Peter 3:21; Colossians 2:12-13, Galatians 3:26-27.

WHAT IS TRUTH?

Each Sunday morning in various denominations doctrines are presented that could not all be true. Let’s look at a few of the more prevalent teachings on salvation.
Church “A” “Baptism is a sprinkling of water and is for the remission of sins.”
Church “B” “Baptism is a pouring of water and is not for the remission of sins.”
Church “C” “Baptism is a burial in water and is not for the remission of sins.”
Church “D” “Baptism is a burial in water and is for the remission of sins.”
Could all of these statements be true? No! The only standard we can use to determine which is true is God’s word. An analysis of Acts 2:38; Acts 8:36-39; and Romans 6:3-4 will give us the Father’s will.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR PREACHER

Below are suggested questions that can be asked. Remember in order to analyze a subject or word; one must go to a scripture location where that subject is discussed. Keep in mind also the fact that God cannot lie, Hebrews 6:18, so when He says something in the Bible, He means it.
1.  Where in scripture is it found that salvation precedes baptism where both are found in the text?
2.  Was Paul telling the truth when he said we are baptized “into” Christ in Galatians 3:27 and Roman 6:3? Where is a person spiritually before being in Christ?
3,  If there is a difference between the Bible and a teaching or a creed of a denomination, which should be accepted as final authority in religion?
4. For those who practice sprinkling: Explain the meaning of the word buried in I Corinthians 15:3. Explain the same word in Romans 6:4.
5.  Since Jesus said he would build His church, Matthew 16:18, why does our church wear (___) name on the building?
6. Since the scriptures point out that the Lord’s Supper was eaten every Sunday, Acts 20:7 and I Corinthians 11:20-28, where do we find authority to eat it less frequently?

AN ETERNAL PLEA

A person has a right to disagree with my preacher, his own preacher, or me. However, he has no right to disagree with the Lord. All men will be judged by the Lord someday, John 12:48. Jesus said, “If you love me keep my commandments.” Do you love Jesus enough to go against even your own preacher if he disagrees with God’s Word?

If you will love Him to the extent that you will abandon all doctrines not supported biblically and turn to His word, write me and I will try to help you locate the church of Christ in your area. If none exists where you live, maybe I can help you start one in your own home.

Remember a large number of sincere religious people will hear, “Depart from me” because they would not do the will of the Heavenly Father, Matthew 7:21-23. Please don’t be among that group!

Bob Danklefsen
Tract T-17
Copyright 1976, Revised 11-2003

… And woke up in eternity realizing you had rejected a fellowship of believers purchased by the blood of Christ! Paul said, “Take heed unto yourselves and to all the flock in which the Holy Spirit hath made you bishops, to feed the church of the Lord which he purchased with his own blood” Acts 20:28.

It must really hurt Jesus when He hears one say, “Oh, I know accepting Jesus is important, but you don’t need to belong to a church.”

Man’s Sin Problem

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23. If one dies in sin, he will pay the penalty of death for his sins because he earns eternal punishment, Revelation 21:8. Paul said, “For the wages of sin is death; but the free gift of God is eternal life” Romans 6:23. Why is it fair?

Jesus Paid For Our Sins

Isaiah said that God had laid on Jesus the sins of us all Isaiah 53:6. The incarnate Jesus, who is God manifest in the flesh John 1:1-14 voluntarily took care of our sin problem Romans 5:8. Then the third day God raised Him Acts 2:22-24. Now He sits at the right hand of the Father interceding for Christians Hebrews 7:25 and He promises to come back for those in Christ I Thessalonians 4:13-17. Those in the family of God are in the church I Thessalonians 1:1.

How Does One Get Into Christ?

Those who heard the message of Christ’s death and resurrection asked what to do to be saved Acts 2:37. Peter said unto them, “Repent ye and be immersed every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” When one repents, there is to be a change of mind which means we give up the right to rule our own lives and let Christ’s will be done. When one demonstrates a trusting faith in His death, burial, and resurrection through immersion, Romans 6:3-4, God forgives him of his past sins Acts 22:16.

The Church and Salvation

How does the church fit into man’s response to become a Christian? On the birthday of the church we find 3,000 were immersed and were added to the church Acts 2:41-47. For a long time I thought that one joined the church as he does any other organization, but God says that He adds believers to the church Acts 5:14, I Corinthians 12:18 when they obey the gospel Romans 6:17-18. Why do we have the church? God wanted sons and daughters Hebrews 2:10-12 but because we all sin, someone had to pay the penalty of our sin and this was planned before the world was created I Peter 1:18-20.

The Church In The Mind Of God

Paul in his letter to the Ephesians tells of the mystery (hidden to previous generations) concerning the church and that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs through the gospel Ephesians 3:1-11. Even angels and the prophets desired to look into this mystery I Peter 1:10-12, but had to await Jesus’ statement, “Upon this rock I will build my church” Matthew 16:18. Matthew continues to quote Jesus, “I will give unto thee the keys to the kingdom of heaven” as He tells Peter. You will be the first to unlock this mystery by opening the door through the gospel message. Fifty days after Jesus’ resurrection Peter shares the good news of His crucifixion and resurrection, and then how to accept Jesus as Lord Acts 2:22-41.

The Church – God’s Family

When we bring children into a human family, God expects us as parents to raise these little ones, providing all the physical and spiritual needs necessary to proper development.

The same thing is true in God’s family, the church. He first tells the church leaders (bishops or elders) to feed the flock (members), I Peter 5:1-3. Special times we may call Bible study periods are normally provided to meet this need in God’s church. Instructions to new Christians are to desire the sincere milk of the word to help them grow I Peter 1:1-2. And since the Lord instructs all Christians to study His word II Timothy 2:15, faithful leaders will provide this need.

Fellowship Is Important

I will need the strength and encouragement of fellow Christians which I get in the assembly, and when I am with the saints on other occasions. The early church sensed this need as we see in Acts 2:42-46. Note the beauty and validity of the statement recorded in Hebrews 10:24. “Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works.” The only way to accomplish this is to be with our brethren. (See Hebrews 3:12-15). The Hebrew writer continues in verse 25, “not forsaking our own assembling together as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another and so much the more as you see the day drawing nigh.” Note the word “assembling” rather than “assembly.” This simply says that whenever God’s people meet together, we need to be with the saints—that would even include a mid-week Bible study.

Can I Miss “Church”

A person who tries to do as little as he can to serve God, normally does not remain faithful to Him and returns to the world, Peter said of such a person: “For it were better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it, to turn back from the holy commandment delivered unto them.” See II Peter 2:20-22; Hebrews 10:26-31.

When one deliberately misses the assembly, it becomes impossible to worship God in spirit and truth, John 4:24. God asks His people to remember the sacrifice His Son made by partaking of the Lord’s Supper, I Corinthians 11:20-34, each Sunday, Acts 20:7. Preaching, Acts 20:7, praying and singing, I Corinthians 14:15; as well as giving to help preach the gospel, I Corinthians 16:1-2; all constitute God’s design in worship.

His organization includes bishops and deacons, Philippians 1:1. If every Christian decided to forsake the assembly, God’s organization for the church is instantly dissolved. Yes, God expects Christians to meet together just as He expects any family unit to be together.

Will Those Outside The Church Be Saved?

God has set the members in the body as it pleases Him I Corinthians 12:18. Paul said concerning Jesus, “He is the savior of the body” Ephesians 5:23. The Lord has never promised to save any one outside His church or body, nor has He endorsed the many denominational churches in existence today. In fact, if a person had lived 1900 years ago, he would not have had the difficult task of searching for the church described in the Bible, for only one existed I Corinthians 12:20, Matthew 16:18. It is the prayer of this author that those who read this message will search for the church of Christ in their community.

© Copyright 1976
Bob Danklefsen
T8 3-22-90

Today, many sincere individuals have been turned off to organized religion. Hypocrisy among those claiming to be Christians, immorality among religious leaders, and the lack of personal concern in the churches, has created a cool attitude toward religion. Some public figures in the media such as radio and TV have disillusioned participating contributors. Because of the action of a few, there are many asking, “Is church really that important?” Others are saying to themselves, “I am a good, moral person; I don’t steal or cheat others; I am even better than some church people” Some are willing to say; “I wouldn’t mind facing God in judgment. I’ve not been involved in that many things that would jeopardize my stand with the Lord. I believe he would be proud to usher me into heaven.”

This all sounds good on the surface, but have you ever considered what the Lord might have to say on the subject? The Bible addresses the people involved in wickedness in Romans chapter one. There is no doubt that those involved in immorality, murder, and other vile acts are separated from God. What about those of us who are morally good people? Chapter two is designed to help others to see that we cannot depend on our goodness to get us into heaven. Our problem is SIN. But one will state, “Well Christians sin too.” This is true as John states that if a Christian claims not to sin, he is a liar, I John 1:8-10. Well then, why is a good person any worse off than a church-going person? It is all based on how God looks at sin.

Illustrating The Problem

A few years ago a person, added cyanide to some headache capsules. The people who took the tablets were innocent as far as that crime was concerned; yet they died because of the contamination.

God tells us that sin (doing things against His will) contaminates us, Isaiah 59:1-2. Sin separates us from the Lord. The innocent person might say, “I did not commit this terrible sin, someone else did.” That is true; however, even the innocent person has sinned in other ways.

Suppose a person is caught for speeding in his automobile. He appears before the judge and begins to state that he did not kill or steal from anyone, and began to list other crimes he had not committed. Would the judge then declare him “Not guilty?” Of course not! He committed a crime and must now pay the fine for doing so.

The same thing will occur at the judgment as one appears before God, Hebrews 4:12-13. Again, one might state, “I have not committed that many things in my life that would jeopardize my stand with the Lord.”

Suppose you had some friends over for breakfast and served a dozen scrambled eggs. You did not notice that one was spoiled and added it to the meal. Your guests would not accept them even though the good far outweighed the bad. One egg spoils the whole batch.

Likewise, one sin contaminates the person who may be actively involved in doing good, James 2:10. Here he states, “For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all.”

“Suppose I didn’t know that I did something that God disapproved of, certainly God would not condemn me then.” God dealt clearly with this problem when He wrote, “If a person sins and commits any of these things which are forbidden to be done by the commandments of the Lord, though he does not know it, yet he is guilty and shall bear his iniquity,” Leviticus 5:17. It looks at this point that no one will make it to heaven, yet, there will be many there, Revelation 7:9. However, it is important to realize that based on the whole human race, only a small number will travel the narrow road to eternal life, Matthew 7:13-14. Incidentally, you can make it to heaven on your own merits if you never commit one sin. This means that you have never lied, had a bad thought, gossiped, listened to or told an off-color story. Also, when you found something good to do for someone, you responded with assistance one hundred percent of the time. I have never met a perfect person because the Bible says, “There is none righteous, no, not one.” “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:10,  Romans 3:23. If death occurs while in this state, one will be separated from God for eternity, Romans 6:23, John 8:21. How can anyone make it?

Also, one must remember that the God who will someday judge us is pure, holy, and just and must punish the wicked, Matthew 25:46. He will not allow sin in His presence, Isaiah 59:2. What is the answer to the sin problem?

God’s Answer To The Sin Problem

The Bible is filled with life and death statements. An example of a life statement could be illustrated this way. A person’s house is on fire and someone yells, “Get out of the house, it is on fire.” When one escapes, he receives life. Should he refuse to leave, he will die. For example Jesus said, “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins,” John 8:24. This is a life and death statement. Notice the Bible interprets itself. If one does not believe, what then? It is obvious he will die in his sins, “So, if I believe in Jesus, will God save me?” Since the Bible interprets itself, let us find out what one does to accept Him.

Have You Ever Heard The Gospel?

Jesus told those who belong to Him to go preach the gospel to those who are lost in sin, Mark 16:15. Paul says that the gospel saves a person, Romans 1:16.This is another life and death statement. To be saved is to be for- given of sins by the Lord, Matthew 1:21. What is the gospel?

When one studies the Bible and sees what the lost are taught, one message stands out-Jesus Christ and Him crucified, I Corinthians 2:2. People who were taught in the book of Acts heard how Jesus died for their sins and was resurrected for their justification, Acts 2:22-36; Romans 4:25. God, realizing our sinful condition, made provision for forgiveness for those who respond to the gospel, Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 2:21-24. God loved His creation so much that He sent His Son to earth through the virgin birth, Isaiah 7:14,to allow the sins of all mankind to be laid on Jesus on the cross, Isaiah 53:6, 1 John 2:2. If one does not accept His payment, God must punish that person, Revelation 21:8. Here is another life and death statement concerning one’s future destiny if they die in sin.
Jesus’ resurrection assures all Christians will be raised from death, I Corinthians 15:20-23. Most people, however, will not have eternal life, Matthew 7:13-14, but will be raised for judgment and condemnation, John 5:28-29. Jesus will be the judge of all who have lived on earth. He has experienced the same temptations, even though He had chosen not to sin, Hebrews 4:15, 2 Corinthians 5:10. If one dies in sin he will hear, “Depart from Me you cursed into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels,” Matthew 25:41.

The Christian’s Lawyer

After Jesus’ resurrection, He ascended back to heaven to speak in defense of those who have been saved from sin, I Timothy 2:5. Once a person has become a child of God, he has one to help defend him before the throne of God, I John 2:1. Not only is Jesus pleading for the Christian, so is the Holy Spirit making pleas to the Lord for him, Romans 8:26-27. As one walks a faithful life as one of His, the blood of Christ continues to cleanse him from all sin, I John 1:7-9. But what happens if a person does not belong to the Lord?

Do I Have To Obey The Gospel?

The apostle Paul, speaking by inspiration says, that one is saved by the gospel, 1 Corinthians 15:1-2. This is a life and death statement because he says that some will believe in vain. He wrote to the church in Rome, that not all will obey the gospel, Romans 10:16. Peter says that judgment will begin with Christians and asks, “…what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?” Here Peter is contrasting followers of God with non-Christians. It is obvious that obedience to the gospel is part of God’s plan of salvation. Paul answers the question when he tells that “the Lord will come in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Thessalonians 1:8. This is another life and death statement. If one does not obey the gospel, how does he stand with God? Have you obeyed the gospel?

How Does One Obey the Gospel?

Faith, we have already seen is essential to be saved, I Corinthians 15:1-2. The scriptures also state that repentance is essential to have salvation, 2 Corinthians 7:10. Repentance means to turn from sin and turn to God, Acts 15:19. One way a person demonstrates repentance is to allow God’s inspired word to correct him, 2 Timothy 3:16-17. One must be willing to declare his faith in Christ, Romans 10:9-10 and then to demonstrate his faith in obedience to the gospel as expressed in Romans 6:3-4. These verses tell how one obeys the gospel by re-enacting the death, burial, and resurrection in a watery grave. See also Acts 8:35-39. Jesus’ blood was shed in His death. When one is lowered beneath the water, he is baptized into His death where the blood is applied to him and he rises to walk in a new relationship with Christ, Colossians 2:12-13,”…having forgiven you all your trespasses,” (sins).

Examples Of Obedience To The Gospel

Peter preached the gospel to the lost in Acts 2. The people wanted to know what to do to be saved, (verse 37). Peter tells them that they must change their hearts and obey the gospel and then God would forgive them and give them the gift of the Holy Spirit, (verse 38). Three thousand gladly did this and were added to the church, (verses 41-47). When one is baptized into Christ, he is also baptized into the body of Christ, the church, 1 Corinthians 12:13.

Do I Have To Go To Church?

Jesus experienced mental and physical torment to purchase for you a place in heaven, Hebrews 5:7-9, Matthew 16:18. Everyone who responded in the Bible understood that they would be a part of the saved that were in the church, Acts 2:47, Colossians 1:2, Colossians 1:18. Paul said to the elders in Ephesus, “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock (church), among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood”, Acts 20:28. In Ephesians 5:23, Paul says that He is the Savior of the body (church). This is another life and death statement. Suppose one is not in the church-Jesus obviously is not their Savior and if a person is not saved, he is lost.

Another thing to consider, if one can be saved and not be a part of the body of believers, then everybody can be. Then Jesus’ dying for the church as expressed in Acts 20:28 was in vain. The churches of Christ are striving to help those who are asking, “Do I have to belong to a church?” to see that one who wants to please the Lord will want to be a part of the family of God. The Lord has placed elders in the church to be spiritual guides, I Peter 5:1-4, the deacons help with the physical needs, Acts 6. God’s word helps the new Christian grow from babyhood to maturity, I Peter 2:1, Hebrews 5:12-6:3. The Lord’s people can meet together each Lord’s day to commune (Lord’s Supper), be edified by preaching, singing, and praying together, and to give of their means to spread the gospel, Acts 2:42, 20:7; 1 Corinthians 14:15, I Corinthians 16:1-2. Those in God’s family are instructed not to deliberately miss meeting together in the assembly, Hebrews 10:25.

Give The Lord’s Church a Try

I am so thankful that someone loved me enough to share the gospel with me. I struggled three months before making a commitment to the Lord. I am so happy that I made the right decision. Now I know that I have eternal life and belong to Him and work and worship with His church.

© Copyright 1988
Bob Danklefsen
Revised 6-4-01

Many sincere people who love the Lord are asking this question, especially after learning some fundamental truths they had never understood in the Bible, “Do I have to change churches?” Others are asking, “Do I have to belong to a church at all?” These questions need to be answered as our eternal destiny is at stake.

I have talked to people who claim salvation from sin and yet do not see the necessity of belonging to a local body of believers. We need to investigate what the Lord has to say in the Bible. Since He claims to have given us everything we need for life and godliness, 2 Peter 1:3, let us investigate His teaching concerning salvation and the church. We then need to look at why there are so many different churches and find out if there is any particular one that better relates to God and man.

WHERE SHOULD WE START?

It might be good to start with an illustration. Suppose a man wants to join a civic organization but he already belongs to another that contains a totally different set of rules, bylaws, and initiation ceremony. This man sets down with a member of the new club and looks over what he needs to know and do to become a member. He finds the ceremony that is to be conducted to join this new group much to his liking and decided to memorize his part in the initiation ceremony so he can do what is necessary to join that group. After he is initiated into the group, he states that he will not be attending the new group because his old friends are still over in the former club. Immediately, we can see the inconsistency in such an action. But does the same apply to the church?

WHERE DOES ONE BEGIN?

Jesus said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,” Mark 16:15. The very message the Lord said “Go preach” is the one that will move a person to want to be saved, Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:1-2. What then is the gospel?

The gospel is the message concerning Jesus, Romans 1:1-4. The Bible teaches that “…God was manifested in the flesh..” 1 Timothy 3:16. John expressed that the Word (God the Son) became flesh, John 1:1, John 1:14. The beautiful story of the virgin birth unfolds in the book of Matthew 1:18ff.

It is further learned that although Jesus was tempted, He never sinned, Hebrews 4:15. The sinless Son of God voluntarily went to the cross to make payment for the sins of everyone who has ever lived, 1 John 2:2. After his death on the cross, He arose the third day, Acts 10:40. The Lord ascended back to heaven where He now lives to speak in defense of Christians, 1 John 2:1 Jesus’ resurrection assures those who belong to  Him that they too, in the future will be victorious over death, 1 Corinthians 15:20-23. On the other hand, those not prepared to meet their Maker, will experience condemnation on the day He returns, John 5:28-29.

This is the message, called the gospel that was shared with the lost, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. See Acts 2:22-36; Acts 3:15, Acts 4:10 and many other passages in the book of Acts.

It must be noted here that Jesus experienced mental and physical abuse to purchase for us a place in heaven, Luke 22:39-44; Hebrews 5:7-9. One might ask, “What does the gospel of Christ have to do with the church?

CHRIST AND THE CHURCH

Jesus is the first to mention the church when He said, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it,” Matthew 16:18. It is obvious that the church was extremely important to the Lord. Later Luke records as Paul states to the elders of Ephesus, “Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which he purchased with His own blood,” Acts 20:28. The church is also called the body of Christ, Ephesians 1:22-23. God states that Jesus is the Savior of the body, Ephesians 5:23. Now if Jesus purchased the church with His own blood and He promises to be its Savior, is the church important? Obviously, very much so!

WERE THE CONVERTED IN A CHURCH?

When one looks back at those who heard the gospel on the birthday of the church, it is very clear that they united with the body of believers, Acts 2:42-47. Listen to verse 47, “Praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” Later, we read of Saul making havoc of the church, Acts 8:1-3. Paul later confirms that the church should be the group through which the manifold wisdom of God should be made known, Ephesians 3:10.

HOW DOES ONE ENTER THE CHURCH?

After one hears the gospel, the natural question for a lost person to ask is, “What must I do to be saved?” This was asked in Acts 2:37, Acts 9:6, Acts 16:30. The gospel had been presented in Acts 2 and 9. See Acts 2:22-36 and Galatians 1:11-12. After the jailer gathered his family together, they too heard the gospel, Acts 16:32-34.

What were they to do to be saved from their sins? Peter’s message to those asking was, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Acts 2:38. Ananias told Saul, later known as Paul, “And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Paul told the jailer to believe and to be baptized as the conversion is related in Acts 16:31-33. Included in one’s response to become a Christian is a verbal expression that one believes Jesus to be the Son of God, Acts 8:37.

The Bible tells one who hears the gospel to first have faith that Jesus really did die and rose from the grave, Acts 3:14-16. This faith leads one to repent, turn from sin to God, Acts 3:19. True repentance means one will give up any preconceived ideas concerning how one responds to become a Christian and respond as they did in the scriptures. Those who gladly received the gospel of Christ were immediately immersed in water to re-enact the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, Romans 6:3-4. Note all those taught in Acts were baptized without delay. Why?

OBEYING THE GOSPEL

Romans 6 already told us how to obey the death, burial and resurrection when one is baptized. In that same chapter, Paul says that when we obey from the heart the gospel, we are made free from sin, verses 17, 18. This is later confirmed when Paul tells that God will take vengeance on those who have not obeyed the gospel, 2 Thessalonians 1:8. Peter had already stated that repentance and baptism were necessary to obtain forgiveness of sins, Acts 2:38. Those who gladly accepted Peter’s message were baptized, verse 41.

GOD’S PLAN OF SALVATION VERSUS MAN’S

Today, there are so many different ways that man is taught to be saved. Some who have no faith are supposedly baptized as infants. Yet faith is necessary, Hebrews 11:6. Others are taught that one can be saved without obeying the gospel, by faith only. The Bible on the other hand says that faith and baptism are necessary, Mark 16:15-16. Many other teachings concerning salvation have been devised by man which cannot be covered now. But the important thing is, what does God say in His word?

AFTER I OBEY THE GOSPEL, WHAT THEN?

Many precious souls have been honest enough to admit that they were taught a different plan of salvation and that they desired to obey the gospel. It is important for them to count the cost before doing so, Luke 14:26-31, Matthew 10:34-39. Family pressure, former religious ties, and the world will have a strong pull.

DO I HAVE TO CHANGE CHURCHES?

It is a precious thing to watch a person open their heart to the Savior. When they suddenly realize that no one had ever presented the gospel message to them, they are really grateful. I remember one woman whose heart was really touched by not only the gospel but the uniqueness of the plan of salvation as it unfolded in the book of Acts. Those taught were baptized immediately. After counting the cost in a later study, she found that she could not sleep at night. Finally, she asked a Christian to help her obey the gospel. The following Sunday she assembled with others who had obeyed the gospel, Hebrews 10:23-25. She had come to realize that the former church of which she was a member had no one present who had been immersed for forgiveness of sins. Therefore, she understood that all of her brothers and sisters who had obeyed the gospel would be assembling to remember the Lord’s death by taking the communion each Sunday, Acts 20:6-7.

Yes, one does need to consider seriously whether he will or will not change churches. First, he needs to examine why he wants to obey the gospel. He must realize his lost state.

SHOULD I OBEY THE GOSPEL?

God so designed His family of believers so that it is impossible for one to become a Christian and not meet with others who have obeyed the gospel. God did say that some would depart from the faith, 1 Timothy 4:1. Some would teach other gospels, Galatians, 1:6-9. It became evident that “faith only” concepts had to be met, James 2:24, also churches began to elevate man, 1 Corinthians 1:10-15.

The Lord’s church is made up of those who understand that they were baptized into Christ and His body, Galatians 3:26-27; 1 Corinthians 12:13. The church then assembles each Lord’s day to eat the Lord’s supper and hear from God’s word, Acts 20:7. They give of their means to help the church reach others, 1 Corinthians 16:1-2. They sing and pray together, I Corinthians 14:15. They work and serve the Lord; under the oversight of bishops (called elders or pastors), Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-5. His church will also consist of deacons, 1 Timothy 3:8-13, and teachers, Ephesians 4:11.

BEFORE YOU OBEY THE GOSPEL…

..consider the following things. Why do you wish to be baptized? If you realize that God will not forgive you until you have obeyed the gospel, Romans 6:3-4, Romans 6:17-18, then where do you stand with God prior to your obedience? If you admit that you are lost in sin, what about others with whom you now assemble who have not obeyed the gospel-where are they spiritually?

Once you obey the gospel, how will your relationship change to those with whom you now associate? I believe you can now see that they will not be your new brothers. Only those who have also been baptized for forgiveness of sins will become your new brothers and sisters.

God has asked those who have obeyed the gospel to meet together each Lord’s day to remember Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross by taking the Lord’s Supper. Can you now see that you will need to be with your new family to participate in the communion?

The best way to reach others, including those with whom you now attend church, is to demonstrate that being with those who have obeyed the gospel must be first in your life.

Another thing to consider is that the elders of the Lord’s church must give an account concerning the souls of those who have been obedient to the faith, Hebrews 13:17. By deliberately absenting oneself from the church, this puts an added burden on the leadership.

MY DILEMMA-SHOULD I CHANGE CHURCHES?

When I asked the Christian who studied with me, “What does your church teach on? “ He would always respond, “I don’t know, would you like to see what God has to say about it?” The final authority had to be the scriptures! After studying with this man, I suddenly realized that where I attended church no one in that church had been asked to obey the gospel. The discipline used to guide the church gave a totally different response than the Bible had taught. For three months I struggled with submission to God’s gospel. I found that I was resisting God! I had to obey the gospel and I had to change churches.

I had also come to realize that to remain where I had attended was a way of endorsing a human plan of salvation. For by my attendance and monetary contribution, I was supporting financially this doctrine of man which I had come to realize was not biblical.

My closeness to my new family in the Church of Christ has helped me to realize I am in a caring body of people. Mark 10:29-30 promises me a new family, a confidence in my own salvation, even the promise of persecution, and in the end eternal life.

Bob Danklefsen
Copyright 1988
Revised 7-3-01