New Birth

Who Are The Two End Time Witnesses?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by David Goldman on Unsplash

”And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.” (Revelation 11:3)

Scripture speaks of two witnesses who will appear on the end time scene, and preach during the last three and one half years before Jesus returns. Throughout history, God has tasked men and women to preach and prophecy to the nation of Israel, warning them to turn to God with their whole hearts in order to avoid impending judgment. These two men will operate in the same fashion as prophets of old.

The Time Period

The number of days that these witnesses will preach is 1,360 days. This coincides with the final three and one half years before Jesus returns called the Great Tribulation. In the near future, there will be a 7 year covenant (peace agreement) signed which will allow for the building of the third Jewish Temple on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. Both Jews and Muslims will worship on this holy site, which can hardly be comprehended, knowing the violent history of these two groups. From the time the covenant is signed, there will be seven final years before Jesus returns.

There will be “peace” for the first three and one half years of this final seven year period. At the midpoint of these seven years, however, the two witnesses’ ministry will be launched when an event we call the abomination of desolation takes place. This event is when the antichrist will step into the newly built Jewish Temple, stop the daily animal sacrifices, and proclaim himself to be God, or the anointed one, messiah for all peoples. This event will trigger the three and one half year Great Tribulation, and God’s two witnesses will begin their final ministry of preaching to the Jewish people in Jerusalem, encouraging them to turn to God with their whole hearts, and be born again according to Acts 2:38.

What Will They Preach?

Unlike prophets of the Old Testament who didn’t live under the New Covenant, these two men will no doubt be Born Again of water and Spirit. They will preach Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, of course. They will be witnesses of the New Birth message of Jesus Christ, patterned in the Book of Acts. It is the only true salvation message of the New Testament.

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

A Powerful Ministry

Their ministry will be power packed with signs, wonders and miracles. This is God’s final attempt to get the attention of the Jewish people, and whosoever will come to him in this last harvest. The two witnesses will have His supernatural protection until their ministry is accomplished.

“And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.

These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will.” (Revelation 11:5-6)

Elijah, Enoch Or Moses?

Perhaps we should approach the identity of the two witnesses by talking about who they cannot be. Many people think the two witnesses will be either Elijah and Enoch, or Elijah and Moses. There are several reasons for this line of thinking.

ELIJAH?

“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.” (Malachi 4:5-6)

Since Elijah is most often mentioned as a candidate for one of the two witnesses, let’s begin with him. As you can see from the above scripture, there is good reason to suspect the fiery prophet to be one of the two witnesses, except for these two things.

1. Jesus explained to His disciples that this prophecy referred to John the Baptist, and that he had already come. The prophecy was fulfilled when John came in the spirit of Elijah. John carried the same anointing as the Old Testament prophet Elijah.

“But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.” (Matthew 17:12-13)

Jesus does precede this statement by pointing to a future time when Elijah will come. This could mean that one or both of the two witnesses will come in the spiritual anointing of Elijah just as John the Baptist did according to the precedent that had already been set.

And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes that Elias must first come? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore all things.“ (Matthew 17:10-11)

2. Elijah was taken up into Heaven in a fiery chariot. People refer to this to say that Elijah never actually died, so he can come back as one of the two witnesses.  I would point out that no unregenerate flesh will enter into Heaven. The only way people go to Heaven is in their new, sinless bodies. Knowing this, Elijah must have experienced the same change from mortality to immortality that we will experience at the time of the rapture. That being said, Elijah is already in his immortal body, and since the two witnesses are killed at the end of their three and one half year ministry, Elijah is removed from the candidate list.

ENOCH?

The argument for Enoch being one of the two witnesses is the same as for Elijah. He pleased God so much that God took him on to Heaven without experiencing death. Again, I would point out that even though Enoch didn’t experience death as we know it, he must have experienced the change from mortality to immortality in order to be taken into the heavenly realm. He cannot put back on mortality as if it’s a garment to be one of the two witnesses.

“And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.“ (Genesis 5:24)

MOSES?

The argument for Moses being one of the two witnesses is that when Moses died, God Himself buried him. Later, it is recorded that satan apparently wanted the body of Moses, and the archangel Gabriel withstood him.

The deceased body of this mighty prophet and deliverer was a hot commodity to both God and satan. Why would that be? God loved this man dearly. He spoke to Moses face to face as with a friend. He took care to not let his body fall into the hands of those who would misuse it. If the Israelites had his body, they would likely build a shrine and idolize it. If satan had his body, he would likely possess it to be worshipped. God made sure neither of these options were possible.

“So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord. And he buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Bethpeor: but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day.” (Deuteronomy 34:5-6)

“Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.“ (Jude 9)

MOSES & ELIJAH?

The last combination I’ll mention is that of Moses & Elijah being the two witnesses. When Jesus was transformed in the presence of his disciples on the mountain, Moses and Elijah appeared with Him. The disciples noted that these two great prophets of old were conversing with Jesus, and spoke specifically of his coming death. This is so incredibly interesting.

God raised these two faithful men up for a short time, and interacted with them. As for why Moses was allowed this time with Jesus, it can be assumed that because he wasn’t allowed to go into the Promise Land during his life, Jesus allowed him stand and see it in his spirit body.

I’ll point out here that These two men were in their immortal bodies. They had both experienced the change from mortality to immortality. While God did raise them up for a short while, presumably a few minutes of conversation, they cannot die again. Therefore, they cannot be the two witnesses of the end time.

“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him.” (Matthew 17:1-3)

So Who Are They???

Why is it easier to believe that God will raise someone from the dead to fulfill this ministry in the last days, rather than to believe He will use two men of God who are alive right now? Every minister is called to their own generation. The end time church is made up of One God, Apostolic, Jesus Name, Holy Ghost Filled, Tongue Talking, Holiness individuals. The two witnesses of the book of Revelation will be two of those people.

They will walk the streets of Jerusalem proclaiming the New Testament plan of salvation. Acknowledge Jesus Christ as your Messiah. Repent. Be baptized in Jesus name for the remission of your sins. Receive the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in other tongues. Turn to God with all your hearts. Live holy.

This is the message of the New Testament End Time Church. This will be the message of God’s two witnesses during those final three and one half years.

Killed, Resurrected & Raptured

And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.” (Revelation 11:7-8)

And after three days and an half the spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them. And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud; and their enemies beheld them.“ (Revelation 11:11-12)

When they have finished their ministry, they will be killed, and will lay in the streets of Jerusalem for three and one half days. But after this, God will bring life back into their bodies, and they will be caught up into Heaven.

…This sounds familiar…

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.“ (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)

This is the Rapture, or Catching Away of the Church. The resurrection and ascension of the two witnesses is not an isolated event. They are resurrected and caught up to be with Jesus at the same time as the saints of all the ages. Now we also know the timing of the Rapture of the Church.

In Summary

The two witnesses are not ethereal spirit beings or Old Testament prophets risen from the dead. They will be born again saints in the modern New Testament Church, preaching the same message that has been preached since the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter two.

Are they alive today? I’d say it’s likely.

Do they realize who they are? I’d say it’s beginning to dawn on them.

How can we help them? Begin praying for them daily even though you don’t know their names.

End Time Revival

The two witnesses’ ministry will be in Jerusalem, but there will be  great harvest of souls from all around the world in the last days. The whole Church will be involved in this great revival. I pray that you are born again, sold out to Truth, and willing to be His witness during this last great push for souls before Jesus returns to set up His earthly Kingdom.

After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.

And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God,

Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they?

And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” Revelation 7:10-14)

Warm Regards In Jesus Name!

-Pat

Why Can’t I Speak In Tongues?

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments
Photo by Jessica Hearn on Unsplash

“And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:4)

This scripture is taken from the account of the Holy Ghost being first poured out on the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter two. Since that day approximately two thousand years ago, every person who has ever received the Holy Ghost (God’s Holy Spirit) has spoken in tongues.

My husband and I travel and minister every weekend, and see people receive the Holy Ghost in this very same way almost every service. That being said, we sometimes encounter seekers who desperately want to be filled with the Spirit, but seem to come up against a wall of resistance that hinders them from pressing through to actually speaking in tongues. Their frustration often leads to the question, “Why is it so hard? Why can’t I speak in tongues?” Sometimes the question is verbalized, and other times I can see it on their face even though it’s not spoken.

First, let me assure you that God chose speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of receiving His Spirit. He wants to fill you with this precious gift, and He didn’t choose something that was unachievable.

Biblically, our new birth experience is compared to a baby’s natural birth. We can easily see that a baby doesn’t have to be taught how to cry. It is actually the most natural thing a baby does. They cry. A lot. Similarly, crying out to our Heavenly Father in tongues should be the most (super) natural thing we do.

Then why is it so hard?

Imagine yourself back in Bible times when the Holy Ghost was first poured out. It was a brand new experience, and no one was being taught how to do it. No one had mountains of negative information and opinions to overcome. They simply prayed sincerely and fervently until His Spirit began moving on them and through them. When that happened, they gave themselves wholeheartedly and unashamedly to worshiping Him. They didn’t close their mouths in embarrassment, or look around to see who was witnessing their most intimate moment with God.

On the contrary, they were caught up in the experience, and reached for Him even more. They worshipped Him louder and louder until they were speaking words they didn’t understand. And they didn’t care what it sounded like, or who was listening. All they cared about was drawing closer to Him, and being completely saturated with His Presence. The experience is still the same these two thousand years later.

MY HOLY GHOST TESTIMONY

Perhaps if I share my own experience of receiving the Holy Ghost, it will help you along on your journey. I didn’t receive the Holy Ghost right away after learning the Plan of  Salvation (Acts 2:38). As a matter of fact, I sought to be filled for five long years. I would go to the altar and pray desperately. Many people prayed with me through the years. However, speaking in tongues evaded me, and my frustration and desperation only grew.

My husband and I were living in Alabama at the time. We had traveled home to Tennessee for the weekend, and were attending service at the church he had grown up in. I remember as the pastor preached, feeling God’s Spirit begin to tug at my heart. I was desperate to be filled with the Holy Ghost, but what was going to make this time different than all the others?

In that moment, it occurred to me that I was hearing words in tongues, spoken in my own voice, inside my head. As a matter of fact, I realized this was normally what happened when I was praying to be filled. I heard the tongues in my head, but never spoke it out. I assumed that was just me, and if it was God, He would take control, and force the words out of my mouth. I was so weary of the terribly frustrating cycle I was in of seeking and being disappointed again and again. Five years worth.

I began to wonder what would happen if I simply spoke the words out. Would that be seen by God as a lack of faith in His ability to change my language? Would it be me or Him? Could it really be that simple? I decided in that moment to find out. I stepped out into the aisle, raised my hands, and began to speak out the words in tongues that had been echoing in my head for five long years. The most beautiful and powerful thing happened as a result. God met me there. The moment I was obedient, and spoke out what He had already given me, I felt the inrushing of His Spirit as He filled me to overflowing.

Five years of struggle was over once I got my intellect out of the way, and used my own mouth and tongue to speak in that heavenly language. You might think, Well then anybody can speak in tongues any time they choose. It must not be such a spiritual thing after all. To that I would say, a person can make up words, and call it speaking in tongues, but if it’s truly the Holy Ghost, there will be an unction of the Spirit behind it, and He will flow in like a rushing mighty river of spiritual water.

SIDE NOTE

After this initial experience, I never struggled again to speak in tongues fluently. It’s my belief that many people cannot speak fluently in tongues even though they have “stammering lips” as well as uncontrollable shaking because they refuse to speak aloud the heavenly language they are hearing internally. People have actually commented to me over the years on how effortlessly I speak in tongues. I think that is a direct result of learning how to flow in the Spirit, compared to resisting until God “shakes it out of me.”

My experience of seeking the Holy Ghost may be different than yours. I can tell you that I have whispered this story into people’s ears around the altar who have been seeking the Holy Ghost for long periods of time. It has helped several to move forward in faith, speaking out the tongues they have been hearing, and receiving the baptism of the Holy Ghost.

There are other reasons why a person might be seeking the Holy Ghost over a long time period without success. One reason can be a lack of repentance. If a person is harboring sin that they haven’t asked forgiveness for, or refuse to turn away from, they will not receive the Holy Ghost. Some people refuse to follow the steps in the plan of salvation. They want the Holy Ghost, but they won’t truly repent or be baptized in Jesus name. Another reason that I see quite often is a very shy person who won’t worship the Lord out loud. Likewise, some people care more what their friends, family or the people around them will think if they give themselves over to the Spirit. Each of us must come to the place that nothing else matters but being saturated in His Spirit in order to receive the Holy Ghost.

IN SUMMARY

If you are seeking the baptism of the Holy Ghost, God desires this experience for you. It’s part of the New Birth, and nothing is more important than being born again according to Acts 2:38. Don’t give up! It’s for you!

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

Warm Regards,

-Pat

Should I Speak In Tongues With No Interpreter?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Paul Bulai on Unsplash

People have been speaking in tongues since the Day of Pentecost in Acts chapter 2. That’s approximately 2,000 years. It’s astonishing that after all of this time, there remains so much confusion about the subject. One of the most widespread bits of misinformation is the belief that a person should never speak in tongues if there is no interpreter.

”Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.” (1 Corinthians 14:13)

Sounds pretty straight forward, right? The problem is created from taking the scripture out of context. There are multiple reasons for speaking in tongues. In 1 Corinthians chapter 14, Paul is addressing speaking in tongues as one of the Gifts of the Spirit.

Apparently, the Corinthian Church was made up of people who  dealt with the same issues as we do today. Because of that, we have a smorgasbord of instructions to choose from where Paul addresses proper protocols. In chapter 12, he  explains each of the Gifts of the Spirit, and how they should properly function in a church service. In chapter 13, he assures the Corinthians that every operation of the Gifts should be undergirded with love. And then in chapter 14, he speaks about handling the Gifts of the Spirit in a church service in an orderly manner so that everyone in the congregation, as well as visitors, will be edified, and not confused.

Paul focused a lot of attention in his writings to the Corinthian church on issues they were having when they came together for services. That being said, these instructions are focused primarily on the use of the Gifts of the Spirit in a church service.

The congregation was gathering together without any order in place. Everyone was taking their liberty in singing, preaching, praying, prophecying, giving messages in tongues, etc. Their services were complete chaos. Everything was happening at once. Everyone was confused, and no one was being instructed or edified. In modern language, we would say it was a “free for all.”

”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.” (1 Corinthians 14:26)


TONGUES & INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES

Divers Kinds of Tongues and the Interpretation of Tongues are two of the nine Gifts of the Spirit. These two gifts work together. A person who has the Gift of Tongues will feel impressed by the Spirit to speak a message out loud in tongues. After which, either that same person, or someone else in the congregation, will follow by giving the interpretation to the message in a language the congregation understands. A person may have only the Gift of Tongues, or both the Gift of Tongues, as well as the Gift of Interpretation of Tongues.

SIDE NOTE

I’m very familiar with these two Gifts of the Spirit because I have personally operated in them. Interestingly, my husband operates in the other seven. Years ago, we were sitting at our dining room table, talking with a spiritual mentor about the Gifts of the Spirit. He asked me if I could choose, which of the Gifts would I want. I immediately replied, Tongues & Interpretation of Tongues. He asked, “Why?” I replied, “Because the thought of being able to speak a fresh word to the congregation straight from the heart of God for that moment would be so wonderful.” He looked me in the eyes and said matter of factly, “It’s yours.” 

So, yes, Paul did say when you are in a church service, and you feel the unction of the Spirit to give a message in tongues to the congregation, you should pray to receive the interpretation as well. Because if a message in tongues goes forth, and there is no one to give the interpretation, that causes confusion for everyone present, and no one is benefited. However, this is only one purpose for speaking in tongues.

I encourage you to READ 1 Corinthians 14 HERE.

PURPOSES FOR SPEAKING IN TONGUES

You need to know there are multiple purposes for speaking in tongues. The scenario above is only one. Let’s unpack a few.

1. Initial Sign of Receiving The Holy Ghost

A person will speak in tongues as the initial evidence of having received the Gift of the Holy Ghost. (Not to be confused with one of the nine Gifts of the Spirit) Speaking in tongues for this purpose is actually the most important, and must be experienced before the other purposes are possible.

Speaking in tongues is part of the New Birth, or biblical Plan of Salvation. Jesus told Nicodemus in order to enter the Kingdom of God (be saved), a person must be born of the Water and Spirit. Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues is being born of the Spirit.

“Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.“ (John 3:5)

The Holy Ghost was first poured out on the Day of Pentecost in the book of Acts. Since that day, everyone who has ever been born of the Spirit, has spoken in tongues. The pattern was set in the book of Acts, and continues today.

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4)

We see this commanded by Peter later in the chapter.

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


2. Giving a Message In Tongues

We’ve previously covered this purpose for Tongues. It is one of the nine Gifts of the Spirit for the purpose of giving a message in tongues, usually in a gathering such as a church service. It should be followed by an Interpretation of Tongues, given either by the same person, or someone else. The message in tongues is allowed to go forth two or three times, but if no interpretation comes forth, the person(s) giving the message in tongues should stop speaking out forcefully for the whole congregation to hear, and simply worship God in a more personal way. If the message in tongues is not followed by an interpretation, it causes confusion, and is not beneficial. *There have also been accounts where a person will give a message in tongues, and someone in the congregation who speaks a different language is able to understand the message in their language.

“If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.“ 1 Corinthians 14:27-28)

SIDE NOTE

You may be asking why there would be no interpretation to a message in tongues. 1. The person who should be giving the interpretation is not being sensitive to the Spirit. 2. They are learning how to operate in the gift, and are unsure, or too nervous to speak it forth. 3. The person who gave the message in tongues mistook it as a message when, in fact, it was simply an overflow of worship. In any of these situations, the remedy is the same. There is no interpretation forthcoming, therefore it’s best to be silent, and continue worshiping between yourself, and God so as not to draw any more attention. 


3. Praying In The Spirit/Intercession 

There are times to pray in our own language, speaking very specifically to the Lord about our needs and concerns. There are other times when we simply don’t know what else to pray, or the need is so great that we are overcome by our own inadequacy to pray as needed. At times, the Spirit of Intercession will come upon us so strongly that we will drop into a deeper place of prayer. In all of these situations, we begin to pray in tongues, or pray “in the Spirit.” When this happens, we are allowing the Holy Ghost to pray for us because we don’t know what or how to pray for the situation properly.

”Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” (Romans 8:26-27)

4. Worship

Once you have received the Holy Ghost, then you are able to worship on a deeper level. Whether it’s in a church worship service, or in your own personal prayer time, you may begin to speak lovingly and reverently in tongues as you pour accolades of praise out to the Lord. Singing in tongues is another way of lavishing Him with your deepest worship.

“What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.” (1 Corinthians 14:15)

IN SUMMARY

So, the answer to the question of whether you should speak in tongues if there’s no interpreter depends on your purpose for doing so. If you are giving a message in tongues, then you should only speak that message two or three times without an interpreter. If no interpretation is forthcoming, then you should pray or worship in tongues more quietly so as to not cause confusion in the congregation.

However, if you are not giving a message in tongues, there is no need for an interpreter. You may proceed speaking in tongues to your heart’s content.

If you have never received the Holy Ghost with the initial evidence of speaking in tongues, you should most certainly seek to do so as it is part of the New Birth.

If you have previously received the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in tongues, then you have access to speak, pray, intercede, sing, praise and worship the Lord in tongues freely.

SIDE NOTE

If you speak in tongues in any of these ways, then you have, at some time, already received the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and are born of the Spirit. I pray you will take the steps to fulfill the complete Plan of Salvation/New Birth. -> Repent -> Be baptized in Jesus name -> Receive Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38)

Warm Regards,

~Pat~

Great Hope In The Face Of Great Loss

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Pat Vick

THE LOSS

I lost a dear friend this week. I visited with her two months before she passed. We spoke of family, church and the goodness of God. I told her of our upcoming trips. She was so interested in everything we were doing. All the places we were going. She wanted to know whose churches we were ministering in. Did we have any upcoming mission trips? I told her numerous times how much I loved and treasured her. We held each other’s gaze, saying all the unsaid things with our eyes. Each of us wondering silently whether this would be our last visit.

That evening, I conveyed to my husband how fragile she was, and wondered if I would get to see her again on this side of eternity. That was the final time I saw her. I won’t be able to attend her memorial service because we’ll be on the mission trip to Trinidad that I had spoken with her about.

I’ve lost many people in my life. Some were Born Again and living a sanctified life close to the Lord. I had every reason to believe I will see them again in the presence of the Lord and His saints. Others were not Born Again, and were living a life in rebellion to God’s Word. Or they were Born Again, but in a backslidden state, refusing to humble themselves in repentance. I had no reason to believe I will see them again in the presence of the Lord and His saints.

I can judge righteous judgement according to the Word of God. In the the end, however, it is God alone who makes the final decision. Even though He is a merciful God, He does judge by His Word, and only He is qualified to make the final call.

I’m very thankful the weight of people’s eternity is not on my shoulders. I will tell you, however, that judging the fruit of someone’s life can definitely bring you hope or heartache, depending on how they lived.

THE HOPE

The following passage assures that God wants us to have hope when our loved ones pass who are Born Again and living a sanctified life.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

These words do indeed bring me comfort. My sweet friend, who was Born Again, and lived her whole life in the service of the Lord is gone from my presence for now.  For how long, I do not know. What I do know is when Gabriel blows that last trumpet, whether it’s a decade or a hundred years from now, both of our mortal bodies will be changed to immortality in a moment, and we will rise up to meet the Lord and all His saints in the air to forever be with our Savior.

Death is certain, and eternity is real. I desire for you to have this same hope for yourself and your loved ones. There are many paths that promise hope that end in false peace. But the Word of God is sure. In order to have real hope and assurance of eternity, you must be Born Again according to scripture, and live a repentant and sanctified life like my friend.

THE SCRIPTURAL PATTERN

JESUS: Death -> Burial -> Resurrection

YOU: Repentance -> Baptism in Jesus’ Name -> Be Filled With the Holy Ghost 

 

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

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.“ (Acts 2:38-39)

Warm Regards,

~Pat Vick~

What Is The Greatest Need In The World Today?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment
Photo by Samuel Martins on Unsplash


“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)


My People

This scripture is addressed to a particular group of people. While it is relevant and true for all mankind, it is a specific call to the people of God. As we see wickedness prevailing all around us, the Church is being beckoned by God to pray like never before. What do I mean by “the Church?” Who are these individuals? The Church is made up of people who are born again according to scripture.

Many people claim Christianity, but have never experienced this New Birth. In the Old Testament before Jesus offered himself as the sacrifice for our sins, the people of God were set apart from the world through the animal sacrificial system. However, since Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Ghost in Acts chapter two, we become the people of God by being born again of the water and Spirit. The New Birth process is given very specifically in Acts 2:38:

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

So the “My People” of 2 Chronicles 7:14 are those who are scripturally born again. They have repented of their sins, been baptized in the only saving name of Jesus Christ, and have received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in tongues. This pattern is clearly seen in Acts chapters 2, 8, 10 and 19.

Who Are Called By My Name

Again, many people claim to be Christians, having never taken on the name of Jesus. We take on his name in baptism. Many have never been baptized at all, not realizing that baptism is necessary “for the remission (removal) of sins.” Others have been baptized, yet not in Jesus’ name. The early Church of the New Testament knew and practiced only one baptismal formula, calling the name of Jesus Christ over the one being immersed. If you have been baptized any other way, including having the titles father, son and Holy Ghost spoken over you, I urge you to study out the topic prayerfully, and be re-baptized in Jesus’ name.

Humble Themselves 

In a world that is hyper focused on “self,” it takes a consistent effort to focus on being humble. And not only being humble, but specifically the act of humbling one’s self. The word humble here means to bend the knee and bring down into subjection. This concept is so foreign in the day we live. The world view is to be puffed up in pride, arrogance and self promotion. To fight for my way and my rights. God’s way, however, is to be in submission to His Spirit at all times.

Pray

We get so busy being busy for God that we forget to actually spend time communicating and communing with Him. Prayer is our lifeline. Just watching, listening or reading one news story a day is enough to bring fear, anxiety and depression into our minds…if we don’t pray. The world has gone crazy. The perilous times Jesus spoke of have arrived, and will only escalate until He returns. We are the generation called to navigate these end time events. We must not allow the condition of the world to cause us to hide under our covers, hoping it will all just go away. God has called us to pray His Will into existence. If we, the Born Again People of God won’t, who will?

Seek My Face

A lot of people are seeking God, but they are seeking His Hand, not His Face. They are seeking blessing, but not relationship. Yes, He has instructed us to ask for what we need, but those prayers should come from an intimate relationship with Him. He wants to meet our needs, and even bless us with things we want, but don’t necessarily need. He’s good like that. His great desire, however, is for us to be with Him. From the very beginning of creation in the garden, it was His pattern to visit with Adam and Eve daily. To commune with them. When we begin to press into His Presence daily, seeking His face, not just requesting goodies from His hand, things will begin to change. Our lives, homes, relationships, communities and lackluster church experience will be changed.

Turn From Their Wicked Ways

Here’s a truth: God does not bless sin. We are living in the dispensation of grace, and His grace is truly amazing. But we have leaned on God’s grace until it has become disgraceful. His grace is given to lead us to repentance, not to continue living in sin. If we profess to be His, we are called to Holiness and Sanctification. I realize it’s not a popular lifestyle with the world, nor with professing Christians who live with one foot in the Church and one foot in the world, but that’s really the point, isn’t it? It’s time to be all in.

“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” (Romans 6:1-2)

Then

The above mentioned actions are what we are accountable for. We must do our part, and do it consistently, before we can expect what happens after the “then.” When we are obedient to be born again according to scripture, so that we can be called by His Name, humble ourselves regularly, pray consistently, seek His face in relationship and not only His hand of blessing, turn from our wicked ways, THEN we can expect Him to respond accordingly.

Hear From Heaven

This begins God’s response to our obedience and faithfulness. He will hear from Heaven. Doesn’t God know, see and hear us at all times? Well, there’s hearing, and then there’s hearing. He is always listening to hear us call on His name in true repentance, in baptism and in seeking the in filling of His Spirit. He is always listening to hear us humble ourselves before Him and call on His name in prayer, desperate and determined to seek His face. THEN He hears us when we pray according to His will. THEN He hears our spiritual warfare prayers that push back the darkness, tear down strongholds, and bring deliverance to our families, friends and loved ones.

Forgive Their Sin

It’s worth repeating that God will never bless sin. If we want our sins forgiven, we must do our part so that He will hear us, and respond with forgiveness. But it’s not only about us. The Born Again People of God are the conduit of His mercy to a sinful world. If people are going to be forgiven of their sins, it will be largely due to our sincere prayers for them. Not sweet little lay me down to sleep or Lord, bless this food prayers. But deep, consistent intercessory prayers for a lost and dying world. God in Heaven, we beseech you to hear us in Jesus name!

Heal Their Land

I believe with all my heart that America has a God given mission in the earth. It’s the very reason for its existence. To be an ally, support and help to the nation of Israel in these last days before Jesus’ return. How can we do that, be that, fulfill that with the most heinous lifestyles being promoted as good, normal and to be sought after in our nation? How?! It is time, and high time, that the  Church of the Living God be salt and light in a nation and world bound by sin.

Conclusion

I believe God has promised us a great end time revival in these last days.yes, I know scripture speaks of a great “falling away,” but it’s a two way street. Many people are rushing headlong into hell, but others, many others, are hungry for Truth. Hungry for the real things of God, and not the counterfeit. Let’s make it our mission to find them. Let’s live out 2 Chronicles 7:4 before them, and watch God respond by hearing us from Heaven, forgiving our sins and healing our nation. In Jesus’ name.

So, what is the greatest need in the world today?

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)

 

Warm Regards,

-Pat Vick

As always, feel free to leave a comment, share to social media, SUBSCRIBE HERE to my newsletter, and email me at pat@patvick.com

 

 

From Generation To Generation

~ Pat Vick ~ 2 Comments
Photo by Casey Horner on Unsplash

From the vantage point in my late fifties, I’m becoming more and more aware of the passing of time, as well as the passing of great men and women of God. It seems every few months or weeks another spiritual giant is called home. On one hand, I rejoice for them. On the other, I am troubled in my spirit. They have navigated this world’s obstacles, and finally passed through the veil of time and flesh into their eternal reward. They are where they’ve lived their whole lives to be -in the presence of their Lord. How could I begrudge them that? How could I want to bring them back to this life of trial and sorrow? David assured us in his writings that God looks on the passing of His saints with joy.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” (Psalm 166:15)

Yet, standing at the casket of a beloved Pillar of Faith, my spirit is pressed by a familiar question. Am I ready? Now that it’s my turn to carry the flame of Truth to my generation, do I have what it takes to stand strong? And not only to stand, but to be an effective witness to those around me. And not only to be a witness, but to be a source of strength, knowledge, wisdom, understanding doctrine, able to teach, manifesting the fruit of the Spirit, operating in the gifts of the Spirit…Let’s face it…It’s a lot.

THE PROCESS

People are called by the Spirit of God in every generation to be Evidence Bearers of God’s Truth and Holiness. This responsibility is passed from elder to younger so that no generation is without a witness.

Godly parents are to pass the mantle of Truth on to their children. This is evident in scripture. Abraham to Isaac. Isaac to Jacob. Jacob to Joseph. Lois to Eunice to Timothy.

Godly mentors are to pass the mantle of Truth on to their protégés. Also evident in scripture. Moses to Joshua. Elijah to Elisha. Paul to Timothy.

It seems significant that both of these spiritual threads lead to Timothy. Whether you came by the Truth via biological, or spiritual lineage, you are Timothy. I am Timothy. 

THE NEED

So often, our elders pass with much of their spiritual knowledge, wisdom and experiences ungifted and untold. They are vessels, still full, and needing a conduit to be poured into. I remember so many hours sitting in a dear elder’s home, listening to her tell the stories of her life. Yes, I had plenty of other pressing things to do. Yes, she told the same ones over and over. You would be surprised how many answers I got to unasked questions just by listening to her talk. How I wish I could sit and listen to her wisdom today, but she has gone on to her reward, a vault that cannot be opened again on this side of eternity.

THE OBLIGATION

I am first generation Apostolic. Meaning, I didn’t have anyone in my direct family lineage who passed this Truth to me. That’s not to say I didn’t have people who loved me, and lived Christian values in front of me. I will always be thankful, however, that God made a way for me to hear the core truths of the Oneness of God, the essentiality of Repentance, Baptism in Jesus’ Name and the infilling of the Holy Ghost (New Birth message Acts 2:38-39) and the importance of a life of Holiness. I’m so thankful that there were people who welcomed me into their home to teach me a Bible study week after week, so that I could become rooted and grounded in Truth. I’m so thankful for godly mentors who lived their lives full of the Holy Ghost and manifesting both the  Fruit and Gifts of the Spirit in front of me. 

Now, it’s my turn. Now, it’s your turn.

You and I have an obligation before the Lord to take what’s been gifted to us from the elders in our lives, not only to live it, but also to transfer it to those coming up under us. This is the process of mentorship that keeps the Gospel moving from one generation to the next. We must stop thinking someone else is going to do it, live it, share it. If that is our mindset, we might just take it with us, unpoured, into eternity.

THE BURDEN

We are undoubtedly living in the last days before Jesus returns to set up His earthly Kingdom. I am weighted down with the burden to invest into hungry souls. Yes, the New Birth message, but also knowledge, wisdom, fruit of the Spirit, Gifts of the Spirit, prayer, fasting, anointing and life experiences. There’s no reason the next generation should have to relearn every life lesson.

THE CHARGE

If you are an elder, find someone who is hungry to pour into. Even if they don’t seem hungry for spiritual food, feed them anyway. You don’t know who God has called them to be. That frustrating teenager who seems destined to be Saul of Tarsus, might just be the next Apostle Paul. 

If you are a young person, find someone full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom whose footsteps you can follow. With their guidance, you’ll know how to fight the battles they’ve already lived through. 

For Heaven’s sake, if you’re still breathing, find a way to pass this Truth from your generation to the next.

“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1)

In Jesus’ Name,

-Pat Vick

 

Freedom Is A Beautiful Word

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment

Photo by Brad Dodson on Unsplash

FREEDOM.

It’s a beautiful word.

It sounds beautiful, and it feels beautiful to the speaker and the hearer.

Here are a few definitions of FREEDOM from DICTIONARY.COM:

-the state of being free or at liberty rather than in confinement or under physical restraint.




-exemption from external control, interference, regulation, etc.




-the power to determine action without restraint.

Most every person, whether they’ve learned the technical definition or not, understand the word. Every one of us has longed for freedom from something. Whether it’s freedom from physical or emotional slavery, freedom from an abusive relationship, freedom from addictions, freedom from a tyrannical government, freedom from our past or freedom from our own tortuous thoughts, we all have felt the longing to be liberated. Freedom is a beautiful word.

Author Maya Angelou published her autobiography, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings in 1969. Having never read her book (which I will soon rectify), I’m still moved by the image the title evokes in my mind’s eye. A small bird, alone in its confinement, with its face toward the sun, singing it’s little heart out. I’ll find out Maya Angelou’s why when I read her story, but I imagine the caged bird sings out of hope. Humans and all of God’s creatures are born with an innate sense of hope. A hope for freedom. Freedom is a beautiful word.

Today is July 4th, the day Americans celebrate our freedom of independence. There will be flags unfurled, grills fired up, tables spread and the sky will be aglow with explosions of color. America The Beautiful will be sung with pride, Corn Hole tournaments will ensue and laughter will dominate the atmosphere of every family gathering. Freedom is a beautiful word.

Sadly, after the celebrations are over, flags are folded for another year, fireworks have burned out, the music has quieted, this year’s Corn Hole champion has been crowned and the laughter has retreated into a heavy evening hush, many will still not be free.

Sooner or later, every individual must come to the  realization that no government, politician, patriotic song or peer group can truly make one free. True freedom only comes through Jesus Christ, and specifically through being Born Again according to His Word (Acts 2:38)

I remember when I was baptized in Jesus’ name. When I came up out of the water, I felt completely free from sin. Likewise, I remember when I received the Holy Ghost (God’s Spirit). I was standing in the aisle of Rushings Chapel Pentecostal Church. I lifted my hands in surrender, began worshiping the Lord out loud, and He poured His Spirit into me, changing my English praises into a language I had never learned. I felt completely free from fear which had plagued me my whole life.

While I am exceedingly thankful to be an American, being Born Again of the water and the Spirit is what truly brings freedom. I will add my personal definition of freedom to those listed above: to be liberated from sin and fear.

”If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” (John 8:36)

Yes, freedom is a beautiful word.

In Jesus’ Name,

-Pat

Do I Have To Speak In Tongues? It’s All About Yielding.

~ Pat Vick ~ 1 Comment

A lady told me years ago that she wanted to speak in tongues like I did because I didn’t make crazy faces. She was trying to pay me a compliment, but I confess I didn’t know how to receive it. It did, however, cause me to pay attention to other people speaking in tongues. Sure enough, a great majority of them made facial expressions that appeared spastic and even painful to watch. This began my search for an answer. Why did some people seem to speak in tongues effortlessly, while others appeared to be chewing on unripe persimmons? The answer, I discovered, is in the yielding.

Do I Have To Speak In Tongues?

This leads me to my title question, do I have to speak in tongues? If you’re asking whether you HAVE to, you’re focusing on the wrong thing. The truth is when you are yielded, you WILL speak in tongues. If you go to the book of Acts which records the first outpourings of the Holy Ghost, there is no record of them asking, “Do I have to speak in tongues?” When the Apostles laid their hands upon potential new converts, they began to worship out loud, yielding themselves to the power of God, and they simply began to speak in tongues. It is the natural overflow of someone who is truly yielded.

Good Ground Yields Fruit

The men in my family farm row crops. Corn and soybeans. If they plant seed into prepared ground, that ground will yield vegetables. They plant with the expectation of harvesting. They trust the yielding process.

“And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred. And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” (Mark 4:8-9)

Trees Yield to the Wind

A healthy tree is not moved out of it’s place by a strong wind. When the wind blows, a tree will yield it’s branches which allows the wind to flow over, around and through. Here on the farm, I’ve been amazed many times at how far a tree will bend to allow for the moving of a strong wind without snapping. I’ve seen the same in altars when people bend and sway physically almost all the way forward and then almost all the way backward under the powerful wind of the Holy Ghost, without falling. The ultimate yielding, however, is when a person yields the most powerful body part, the tongue, to the flow of the Holy Ghost. When this happens, they will speak in tongues.

Crashing Is Not Yielding

We had a gorgeous beech tree in our back pasture when we first bought our property. I loved that tree. It was a majestic sight to behold, and home to much wildlife that made their nests in it’s branches. Even though it had stood for decades, one day a storm came, and it refused to yield. It was a sad day when that giant beauty fell.

There are many signs of someone being touched by the Holy Ghost -Joy, quivering, shaking, jumping, dancing, crying, swaying, but the only God-given evidence of a person being filled with the Holy Ghost is speaking in tongues. Furthermore, when someone comes crashing down like that old beech tree, you can be sure that person didn’t yield. Note, I’m not speaking about sinking down,  “slain in the Spirit,” which I have been. But I don’t care how many so-called men of God blow on you, if you come crashing and thrashing down, that is flesh, not Spirit. The biblical evidence of a person yielding to God’s Spirit is speaking in tongues.

Biblical examples of people falling back (again, I’m not referring to sinking down under the overwhelming Presence of God’s Spirit) actually point to people who were in sin and resisting the Holy Ghost. 

“And the messenger answered and said, Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God is taken. And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years.” (1 Samuel 4:17-18)

“Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye? They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.” (John 18:4-6)

How Do I Yield?

To yield means to give over to. We must give ourselves over to the flowing of God’s Spirit. Admittedly, this is more challenging today than in biblical times. We live in a complicated world in which we are bombarded with external stimuli on a continual basis. The world’s influence, advertising, pressures constantly vie for our attention and mold our thinking. By the time someone is at an altar seeking the Holy Ghost, they have already been exposed, and often saturated, with false teaching concerning what is required for receiving the Spirit, as well as negative opinions about speaking in tongues.

Scripture is very plain, however, that speaking in tongues is the evidence that God chose to prove the infilling of the Holy Ghost. That being the case, how do I yield to the Spirit, and allow myself to be filled?

  • Repent of all sin. To be filled with the Holy Ghost, we must stand before God truly remorseful of everything that we have said, done or thought against His will and word. We must also have committed to turn away from sin from that moment forward.
  • Be Baptized in Jesus’ name. Although many people do receive the Holy Ghost before they are baptized, we should do as much as we have the power to do before we expect God to do His part. Repentance and being baptized for the remission of sins is our part.
  • Begin to Praise and Worship God out loud. God comes close when we lift Him up. Verbally, thank Him for his goodness to you. Say the things individually that you are thankful for. Tell Him out loud how you love Him, adore Him, worship Him, thank Him, trust Him, etc.
  • Lift your hands high to him in surrender to His Spirit and will. This is a universal sign of surrender. I’ve never seen anyone receive the Holy Ghost with their hands balled into fists at their sides.
  • YIELD every part of yourself to Him -every member of your physical body, every emotion, every thought, and your very speech.

“Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16)

What If I Don’t Receive The Holy Ghost?

If you don’t receive the Holy Ghost the first time you pray, you can pray again. It actually took me five years to receive the precious gift of the Holy Ghost because no one told me these things. If you look at the biblical accounts in the book of Acts, however, you will find that after the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2, no one ever “tarried” for the Holy Ghost again. The gift is available to you any time you decide to submit to the process.

The two questions you should ask yourself if you do not receive the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in tongues are:

1. Is there sin in my life that I have not truly repented of? Repentance is not just saying you’re sorry. It’s not even just being sorry. There is a brokenness that comes with true repentance -a godly sorrow, and a commitment to turn away from sin. Check the smallest dark recesses of your heart. Be honest with yourself and God.

2. Are you truly yielded? When your hands began to shake, your lips began to quiver, and your tongue felt like it was going to do its own thing, did you close your mouth and refuse to speak out loud? I realize this is a down to the brass tacks question that doesn’t seem spiritual, but God will not make you speak in tongues. You can stop the flow if you choose, and delay receiving His Holy Spirit until the next altar service, or even the next decade.

So…I Do Have To Speak In Tongues?!

For the love of all things holy, please stop focusing on speaking in tongues. What you have to do is REPENT and YIELD. When you do those two things correctly, you will receive the Holy Ghost, and when you receive the Holy Ghost, you WILL speak in tongues. It’s all about the yielding.

P.S. The answer to why some people speak in tongues more effortlessly than others is all about yielding as well;)

Warm Regards, -Pat

Hey, I’d love your feedback! Leave a comment (by pushing the tiny Leave a Comment button under the title) or shoot me an email (from my Contact page in the menu), and let me know what you think.

Why Isn’t Believing In Jesus Enough To Be Saved?

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment

Acts chapter 16 is the story of Paul and Silas being put in prison for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. They begin to sing in worship while they are bound in stocks. The Lord sends an earthquake that rattles the prison, and drops the shackles off of all the prisoners, including Paul and Silas. The prison guard that is on duty is panicked because he knows that he will be held accountable for any prisoners who escape. However, none of the prisoners flee, and Paul and Silas have an opportunity to witness to the guard. He runs in, falls at their feet, and asked to know how to be saved. They respond with the following answer:

“Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”

If you stop reading here, it’s easy to understand why many people think all that is necessary to be saved is to believe in Jesus. However, the passage goes on to say that Paul and Silas shared the Word of the Lord with his family, AND took them that same hour and BAPTIZED them.

“And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.” (Acts 16:29-33)

 

  • SCRIPTURE MUST BE TAKEN IN CONTEXT.

We must read the Word of God in its entirety. It’s obvious that the jailer and his family didn’t believe only, but Paul and Silas thought it was important that they were baptized, as well. Not at some future time when it was convenient, but the same hour that they preached the Word of God to them, they took them to be baptized.

Anyone who is truly interested in understanding the Word of God can read the Book of Acts and see the pattern. Believers were expected to repent, be baptized in Jesus’ name, and receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in other tongues. This is the New Birth Experience, and the pattern can be found in Acts 2, 8, 10 & 19, plus many other supporting passages. Here are excerpts, but I urge you to read all four chapters:

ACTS 2

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

Although Acts 2:38 is not the only place the Plan of Salvation can be found, it is the most concise, because it was spoken by Peter in the first message to the Church on the Day of Pentecost. Jesus gave Peter the “Keys of the Kingdom,” and he laid out the plan perfectly. 

THE PATTERN

  1. Repentance -We apply Jesus’ death when we die to sin.
  2. Baptism -We are buried with Jesus when we are baptized in His Name.
  3. Receive the Holy Ghost -We are raised to new life, and receive resurrection power when we are filled with His Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues.

ACTS 8

“Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 8:14-17)

ACTS 10

“While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.” (Acts 10:44-48)

ACTS 19

“He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.” (Acts 19:2-6)

We cannot choose to make the scripture mean what we want it to for the sake of convenience. 

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” (2 Peter 1:20)

[bctt tweet=”“We cannot choose to make the scripture mean what we want it to for the sake of convenience.” -Pat Vick” username=”patvickdotcom”]

  • BELIEVING REQUIRES ACTION.

Believing is only the first step in the conversion experience. When you believe in something, you will act upon that belief. The same is true of the gospel of Jesus Christ. When you believe on Jesus, you must act on that believe with obedience.

This obedience to the gospel is not works. Works are benevolent deeds. Repenting, being baptized in Jesus’ name, and being filled with the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking in other tongues is not works. It is OBEDIENCE.

Is it rational to think that all we must do is to think in our minds and hearts that we love Jesus and accept Him as our Savior? Jesus specifically said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15) He also said, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” (Mark 16:16)

  • BELIEVING WITHOUT ACTION IS WISHING

Isn’t it sweet to see a child blow dandelion fluff into the wind, scrunch tight their little eyes, and make a wish? Such it is when an adult believes in Jesus without following through with any acts of obedience. They are simply wishing. Placing their eternity in a puff of air and a feeling, and sending that wish into the great beyond. Hoping when they get to the end of their life that something magical has happened. All the while, Jesus has been waiting for their obedience to the Gospel.

“But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?” (Romans 10:16)

If you have thoughts on this post, I’d love for you to leave comments. Even if you don’t agree. Truly. Tell me what you agree with and why. Also, tell me what you disagree with and why.

Warm Regards, -Pat

Repentance Is Death To Self

~ Pat Vick ~ Leave a comment


Have you ever done something that you knew was wrong, and been sorry while you were doing it, knowing you would do it again? Me too. That isn’t repentance. True repentance (the kind God will forgive your sins over) is not just being sorry, but turning away from sin. True repentance stops the offending action.

WHY ISN’T BEING SORRY GOOD ENOUGH?

We must empty ourselves of our SELF, and give ourselves over to God’s SELF.

[bctt tweet=”“We must empty ourselves of SELF, and give ourselves over to God’s SELF. This is true repentance.” ” username=”patvickdotcom”]

If I’m still living for I and ME, even if I’m sorry for it, then I haven’t repented. I must die to self. That means that no matter how much I enjoy or want something, I have to give that over to the will of God.

As Christians, we throw around the phrase, “Be Born Again” quite often. The Apostle Peter, who Jesus gave the Keys to the Kingdom, explained this process:

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

We can only be Born Again if we have died. Not physically, but spiritually. We must die to our own will and desires, putting God’s Will above our own.

WHAT DOES DEATH TO SELF LOOK LIKE?

When it comes time for a caterpillar to transition to its next phase of life, it will weave a cocoon. There’s nothing appealing or attractive about this cozy little spot. It’s purely functional. While wrapped tightly inside it’s self-spun coffin, an amazing metamorphosis takes place at its cellular level. The caterpillar doesn’t just put on a butterfly costume, it BECOMES a butterfly. It is changed.

[bctt tweet=”“The caterpillar doesn’t just put on a butterfly costume. It becomes a butterfly. It is CHANGED. This is true repentance.”” username=”patvickdotcom”]

Before its change, the caterpillar was probably quite happy and content doing caterpillar things. Crawling, chomping green leaves and basking on branches in the warm sunshine. What would make it want to end all that and die to self? Because God has put something deep inside of that little creature that longs for more. It doesn’t even know what that more looks like, but it instinctively seeks it out, and does whatever is necessary to achieve it.

NEW BIRTH IS NEW LIFE

When the butterfly comes out of its place of death, it is reborn with silken wings of splendor. She cautiously stretches them out to their fullest expanse. What are these lovely appendages for? It begins to press them ever so gently up, down, in, out…There…Did you feel that? Lift! That never happened while she was in her caterpillar body. Something…or Someone…is calling her out to the edge of the limb and even further. Should she? Dare she? She must see what’s beyond where she’s been before. She takes a breath and steps out past the solid branch, trusting her new wings to carry her…and they do.

She looks down from her new vantage point as she soars high above all the other caterpillars that haven’t spun their cocoons yet. They think they are living, but she knows differently. She can FLY, and it was only made possible by dying to SELF.

AN INVITATION

You may be thinking that your life is awesome, and you don’t want anything to change. Trust me…You do. Because what God has in store for you is so much more amazing than what you have ever experienced. Like the caterpillar living its best life can’t fathom what it means to have wings, you can’t fathom what a life given completely over to God will look and feel like.

HOW DO I GET FROM HERE TO THERE?

That’s the tricky part because no one can do it for you. Just as the caterpillar must weave its own place of dying, you must take whatever action is necessary to die to self. You alone know what is in your heart. You alone know what you need to turn away from. You alone know what you need to ask forgiveness for.

Start with one strand. Think of everything you can that you have done against Gods’ Word and Will. Ask Him to forgive you for it. Think of everything that you plan to do that is against His Word and Will. Ask Him to forgive you for it. Commit to Him and yourself that no matter what, you will live for Him. That means His Will takes precedence in your life.

When you have woven enough strands of repentance tightly around your bare soul, the process of transition will begin. God will take your sincere repentance and change you from a caterpillar to a butterfly. You will be able to begin your new life from a fresh vantage point because it comes with WINGS.

“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” (Luke 5:32)