Every one of us has asked the same question at some point in life: If God is real, how do I truly know Him? The issue with religion is that everybody has something to say. My approach is very simple - What does the Word of God say? Then while using Bible scriptures many will take portions of scripture and teach "This is what God says".OK that's fine but sometimes we come across other portions of scripture that seem to be saying something different. Do we just ignore one portion and 'believe' what we were told? This kind of thing is a forever struggle - we want to learn - we want to understand - we want to do what God wants. How can we have confidence in what we are reading or being told? Well, that is why I advocate understanding the Bible cover to cover - leaving nothing out. As you delve into this study you will find out I harldly leave anything out. So when we get to the New Testament we see that it is about promises being fulfilled and restoration completed.

In the beginning while we are learning we do need to trust that what we are being taught is right. And honestly that is 100% fine because as long as the Word of God is getting into your heart - that is never a bad thing. But a one year old shouldn't remain at the maturity level of a one year old forever. Growth and maturity is a reasonable expectation. So also we are dependent when just starting out but we build upon what we learn as we mature. The most important thing to learn is to continually ask God always for wisdom to help you learn and understand. The Book of James tells us God gives wisdom liberally to those who ask.

So ultimately your confidence in learning, understanding and knowing the Word of God is going to be a direct result of your personal study time all the while asking God to help you understand what you are reading. Then you can have a personal confidence to know "This is what the Word of God says". Now when I say the Word of God - I mean the whole Bible cover to cover. There is One God who gave us that one Bible and there is continuity and consistency from cover to cover. Again issues arise when some only use portions of scripture while ignoring other portions of scripture. Well that right there is a red flag because the One God isn't going to contradict Himself. "A house divided can not stand."

So begin by reading the whole Bible cover to cover just to see that there really is just one big picture being painted. That one God created a humanity for fellowship with Himself. In spite of devils that entered the scene and people that just did not want to be faithful to God - God persisted over the many generations in continually calling people back into a relationship with Himself. Then at the very end we find God in an eternal union with the people He loves. Yes, there are dozens of soap opera dramas in there - including my own life - and your own life - but the plot remains the same. God is calling a people unto Himself.

So when you hear talk about salvation or being saved - nothing in the Bible says you are joining a particular organization. Yes, salvation includes becoming part of a body of believers. And yes, those believers do gather and fellowship usually under some form of leadership. And yes, as a body of believers we need each other because no one gets to heaven alone - we are commanded to love one another and that can't happen by being alone. But at the end of the day when all is said and done salvation is - you are being united with God.

So from the very beginning the Bible is revealing one simple truth - God desires mankind to live in fellowship with Him under His life, wisdom, and order. Everything God created was originally good, complete, and functioning in harmony with His Voice - He spoke and it was so. There was no fear, no shame, no corruption, nor death because humanity was living connected to the Source of Life Himself. God spoke, creation answered, and all things remained in order because all things remained under His authority.

And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good… Genesis1:31

Why do we even need to be saved?

If all that existed was "Very good" and perfect under God's order how did this world end up this way? Well you see all was "very good" while all were obeying God's voice. All the problems arose when another voice entered the picture. Satan introduced the lie that mankind could live independently from God and still possess life. At the center of the temptation in Eden was the idea of self-rule - “ye shall be as gods.” The moment Adam and Eve obeyed the wrong voice, separation entered. Shame entered. Fear entered. Death entered. Humanity stepped outside the order of Life and became disconnected from the Source of Life - and into corruption. Yet even in judgment God immediately revealed the first glimpse of redemption - the means by which mankind could reconnect with the Source of Life. When He clothed Adam and Eve through the death of another - Blood was shed so the guilty could be covered.

The Covering for sin

Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them. Genesis 3:21
And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. Hebrews 9:22

The word 'remission' means to have your sins forgiven and removed. This first incident with rebellion and sin - then forgiveness by God reveals a pattern of covering - they were clothed with skins - that is part of being redeemed - having our sins forgiven and removed. This pattern of covering repeats itself over again and factors in as essential to understanding salvation.

From that point forward the entire Bible becomes the story of God calling mankind back to Himself. Abel approached God through sacrifice. Noah found grace in a corrupt world. Abraham walked by faith and entered God’s promises. Israel was delivered from Egypt by the blood of the Passover lamb. Every step forward was teaching the same lesson: sinful man cannot restore himself, but God Himself would provide a way back into His presence.

The Passover gives one of the clearest pictures of salvation. The lamb had to die, but the lamb merely dying was not enough. The blood had to be personally applied to the household. God said, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” Judgment was escaped through applied blood. Then Israel passed through the Red Sea and came out separated from Egypt unto God. Paul later calls this a type of baptism. Blood, water, separation from the old life, and entrance into a new relationship with God all appear together in the Exodus story.

The Blood

And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it… And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt. Exodus 12:7,13

The Water

And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left. Exodus 14:22

The Spirit

And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them: Exodus 14:19

Paul explains:

Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 1 Corinthians 10:1-2

I mention all these things because again the use of these elements - the Blood - the Water - and the Spirit are repeated and become part of a pattern pointing to being "covered" and being "covered" means our relationship with God is good. The tabernacle and priesthood continued teaching these same truths. A priest could not casually walk into God’s presence however he pleased. There had to be washing. There had to be blood. There had to be cleansing and consecration. God was teaching humanity that access back into His presence required purification and reconciliation. The tabernacle was a giant living picture showing that sinful man needed a mediator and a lawful way back to God.

And Aaron and his sons thou shalt bring unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and shalt wash them with water. Exodus 29:4

And thou shalt take of the blood that is upon the altar, and of the anointing oil, and sprinkle it upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon the garments of his sons with him: and he shall be hallowed, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him. Exodus 29:21

For the life of the flesh is in the blood and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. Leviticus 17:11

When these things were all in place, the priests regularly entered the first room as they performed their religious duties. But only the high priest ever entered the Most Holy Place, and only once a year. And he always offered blood for His own sins and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. By these regulations the Holy Spirit revealed that the entrance to the Most Holy Place was not freely open as long as the Tabernacle and the system it represented were still in use. This is an illustration pointing to the present time. For the gifts and sacrifices that the priests offer are not able to cleanse the consciences of the people who bring them. For that old system deals only with food and drink and various cleansing ceremonies - physical regulations that were in effect only until a better system could be established. Hebrews 9:6-10 NLT

With the establishment of Israel we continue to see water, blood, and Spirit as elements of the sacrificial system of atonement throughout their history but their hearts never changed. This is why the writer of Hebrews in the passage above tells us that sacrifice alone did not cleanse the conscience. In order to serve and live for God faithfully - God was looking for sincerity that came from the heart - not a ritual that means nothing. This was articulated through the prophets who began revealing that God’s final solution would not merely clean the outside of man, but transform the inside. Jeremiah spoke of a day when God’s law would be written within the heart. Ezekiel spoke of clean water, a new spirit, and a new heart. God was preparing humanity to understand that redemption was not simply religious activity - it was the restoration of man himself from the inside out. Notice what God is saying about creating new hearts and spirits with God saying - I will be their God and they - the ones with the new heart and spirit - are His people.

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah: Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they brake, although I was an husband unto them, saith the LORD: But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. Jeremiah 31:31-33

Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. Ezekiel 36:25-27

And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. Joel 2:28-29

So the prophets pointed forward to a time when sacrificial ritual would end and God would deal directly with believers. This is the new system that we read about in Hebrews 9. All of these pictures, sacrifices, washings, and promises ultimately point to Jesus Christ. He did not come merely to improve the old fallen order. He came to begin a new creation - the creation of the new heart and spirit foretold by the prophets. A new creation was needed because Adam brought sin and death into the world through disobedience. Christ came as the faithful and obedient Man who succeeded where Adam failed. This is why Scripture calls Jesus “the last Adam.” He became the new Head of a restored humanity.

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth…. And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. John 1:14,16

Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. Romans 5:18

And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him (Jesus) to be the head over all things to the church. Eph_1:22

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end. Hebrews 3:6

At the cross the entire redemption story reaches its center point. Jesus shed His Blood once for all. The veil separating sinful man from God was torn open. The barrier between God and man was removed through His sacrifice. Scripture plainly says we are “justified by his blood.” Forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace with God are all grounded in what Jesus accomplished at Calvary. Salvation is not built upon human goodness. It rests entirely upon the Blood of Christ. And notice again scripture continues to speak of water and blood and also notice in Hebrews 10 that believers have now attained a clear conscience enabling us to go directly to the throne of God.

Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; Romans 3:22-25

Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus. By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; And having an high priest over the house of God; Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22

(Speaking of Jesus) Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister... Colossians 1:15-23

Obeying the Gospel

All of the above history from Genesis to the Cross is the foundation for the Gospel - which is the final solution that finally unites believers with God. All of the Old Testament promises are now fully available and attainable through what Jesus did on the Cross. Obeying the Gospel is what creates the new heart, spirit and clean conscience in the people of God. The New Testament consistently tells us how to obey the Gospel which seals our covenant becoming united with Christ Himself.

This is where we have reached the moment of truth that separates "believers" from the corruption that is in this world. Scripture is clear and my hope is that it is clear enough for you to become a "believer". Romans 5:9 states that believers are “justified by his blood.” Justification is a legal term meaning we have been declared innocent and all charges are dropped as if they never existed. Justification is the full purpose of why Jesus shed His blood on the cross. Because of Adam's sin we all are sinners and guilty before God and worthy of death. Justification means that not only are we not guilty but it goes further and fully restores our innocence to before Adam sinned. Jesus is the new Adam - we become His children in a new system and the New Adam can't make the same mistake the old Adam made. As a matter of fact the Bible tells us Jesus destroyed the devil at the cross versus where the first Adam let the devil into the garden to wreak havoc. So justification is entrance into the new system where Satan is defeated.

Historically Jesus shed His blood once at Calvary. Yet all believers from every generation who have any intentions towards salvation must access that blood. That Blood must be applied in order for our sins to be remitted or removed. That Blood must be applied in order for justification to take place.

Very plainly and to the point – if the Blood is not applied there exists no remission and no justification and no covenant standing. In short ye are yet in your sins and the devil still owns you. So we must then ask an important question: When is that Blood personally applied? Because it is exactly when the Blood is applied that everything becomes brand new and you are now a child of God.

The Bible identifies the exact moment we come into contact with the Blood. Romans 6 explains that believers are “baptized into his death.” He died at Calvary 'once and for all' that is when He shed His Blood. So then there must be a way for all believers of all generations to gain access to the Blood.

And Peter makes that connection that provides access to the Blood in Acts 2:38. Peter connects repentance and baptism with “the remission of sins.” Hebrews says “without shedding of blood is no remission.” These passages tie together - the shedding of Blood and the remission or removal of sins with water baptism. The Blood is the legal ground for justification declaring us innocent. But justification is secured by obedience and entered through us uniting with Christ’s Blood in His death, burial, and resurrection – which is the Gospel.

The Gospel is:

Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: 1 Corinthians 15:1-4

This is exactly why Peter answered the crowd’s question “What must we do?” the way He did. Peter being obedient to Jesus’ command to preach the Gospel to every creature was now being put into practice with Peter's first sermon after the pouring out of the Holy Ghost on Pentecost.

How we Obey the Gospel

Then Peter said unto them, Repent (our death), and be baptized (our burial) every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ (taking on His identity) for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (our resurrection into new life) Acts 2:38

Peter brings in all the elements of the Old Testament - the blood - the water and the Spirit and brings us to the place where everything is made brand new. Repentance is the equivalent of us dying - what is old dies. What dies gets buried - only now baptism in water and is the equivalent of burial. Jesus was buried and we get buried. "And he made his grave with the wicked"... Isaiah 53:9 It is in the grave of baptism that we make contact with Jesus and His Blood is applied to our lives providing justification. But Jesus didn't stay in the grave - He rose again. We who were dead in trespasses and sins are resurrected into new life with the infilling of the Holy Ghost.

In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened (made alive) together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses. Colossians 2:11-13

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. Romans 6:3-9

To be baptized means death has NO MORE DOMINION because the act of Baptism hides us in Christ. "For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God." Colossians 3:3 Being dead we are freed from sin. Baptism joins us to Jesus' grave - Jesus' Blood - Jesus' victory over death - and Jesus' resurrection. What Jesus did on and after the cross is buy a corporate victory for His Bride. That is a universally huge big deal! I hope you are rejoicing in that victory right now.

Faith that believes must become obedience. Obedience calls for Repentance which turns us around and we die to self. Baptism identifies us with the death event and we enter His grave where the Blood is applied. Then The Spirit seals the believer as belonging to God. These are not separate events in God’s eyes but these three agree in one and form the event that connect the believer with the Blood of Christ and our destiny. Calvary was one event that began three days in the grave. Three days in the grave and the wicked found redemption.

He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth. Isaiah 53:8-9

Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 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 2:37-39

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Titus 3:5

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Romans 6:3-5

Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Colossians 2:12-13

And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Acts 22:16

John gathers these truths together by saying there are “three that bear witness, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood.” The Blood removes guilt by providing justification. The baptismal waters are the proving grounds that mark the turning point of repentance to becoming obedience to “faith in His Blood” into a "Born Again" new life. The Spirit gives life and bears witness that we belong to God. These three work together as one united testimony established by God Himself.

This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for this is the witness of God which he hath testified of his Son. He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 1 John 5:6-10

How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. Hebrews 9:14-15

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:13-14

For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. Romans 8:15-16

This also explains the significance of baptism “in Jesus’ Name.” In Scripture a name represents authority, ownership, covenant standing, and revealed identity. The Apostles consistently baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus because they understood that all saving authority had been vested in Him. Baptism in His Name therefore signified transfer of allegiance, covenant identification, and entrance under His Lordship. The believer is not merely washed externally, but claimed by the One whose Blood speaks on his behalf.

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

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Acts 4:12

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 10:47-48

For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Galatians 3:26-27

Even the creation of Eve was pointing forward to Christ and His people. As Adam slept, his side was opened, and from his side came his bride. Jesus, the last Adam, entered death and His side was pierced, bringing forth blood and water. From Adam’s side came a bride in innocence. From Christ’s side comes a bride through redemption by the cost of His sacrifice. From the very beginning God was quietly revealing the story of redemption.

And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. Genesis 2:21-22

But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water... (the elements of redemption) John 19:34

For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Ephesians 5:30-32

Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. Revelation 19:7

The Bible finally ends where it began: with God dwelling openly among His people. Revelation describes the New Jerusalem descending as a prepared Bride. The curse is gone. Death is gone. Separation is gone. God and redeemed humanity dwell together forever. What Adam lost in Eden is fully restored in Christ - only now eternally secured and unable to be corrupted again.

He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. Isaiah 25:8

For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 1 Corinthians 15:53-55

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:2-4

And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. Revelation 22:3-5

The entire Bible therefore tells one continuous story. God created mankind for fellowship with Himself. Sin brought separation and death. Through sacrifice, promise, prophecy, and ultimately Jesus Christ, God made a way back into His presence. Every sacrifice, every washing, every covenant, every priest, every prophecy, and every promise points toward this one great purpose - God restoring humanity back into eternal union with Himself through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:17-19

To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Colossians 1:27

And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. Revelation 22:17

What was recorded in the Gospels, Acts and the Epistles was recorded by the chosen men of God – the men ordained and put in place to preach the Gospel and teach all men to observe all the things Jesus taught. You might take issue with me and my presentations – but as long as what I’m saying is no different than what Jesus would say then your issues are not with me but with Him. I reached back into the Old Testament and showed the continuity of God's operation right up to the Cross. Now with the New Testament the same continuity and consistency continues and I'm just going to continue and double down. Nothing is invented out of thin air and all is consistent and this is what builds our confidence faith and trust.

What Jesus Taught – The Apostles Received and Again Taught

For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them... John 17:8

I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them... John 17:14

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one... John 17:20-21

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. Ephesians 4:4-6

What should be noted is that Jesus tells us that His message originates with God Himself. We saw all the Old Testament promises and prophecies that confirm this. Then Jesus taught the Apostles and the Apostles left us a record through the New Testament writings to reach all those who would come to “believe” in every generation thereafter.

Jesus Teaching the Gospel — Eternal Life Through Him

Jesus Taught Repentance:

From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 4:17

Jesus sent His Disciples out Teaching Repentance:

And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two... And they went out, and preached that men should repent. Mark 6:7, 12

Jesus taught about being Born Again of water and Spirit

Jesus taught Nicodemus that entering the Kingdom requires a spiritual birth:

"Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” - “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” - “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” John 3:3-7

This is one of the foundational passages connecting salvation directly to water and the Spirit. The same "clean water" and 'New heart and spirit' that was promised by God is now soon to become a reality.

Jesus and His Disciples Baptized:

After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized. John 3:22

When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) John 4:1-2

Jesus commanded Baptism:

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you… Matthew 28:19-20

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. Mark 16:15-16

And said unto them... that repentance and remission of sins (baptism) should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Luke 24:46-47

Jesus Teaching About the Holy Spirit - Rivers of Living Water

Living Water:

To the Samaritan woman Jesus said: (edited)

"If thou knewest the gift of God…” “he would have given thee living water.” “The water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John 4:10-14

The “living water” later becomes clearly identified with the Spirit.

"If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” “He that believeth on me… out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.” John 7:37-39

Then John explains:

But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive…” V 39

This directly connects believing the Gospel with receiving the Spirit.

Jesus promises the indwelling Spirit / Comforter:

"And he shall give you another Comforter…” “for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” “I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” John 14:16-18

Notice how Jesus identifies Himself with the Spirit dwelling within believers.

“We will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” John 14:23

The indwelling Spirit is also presented as God Himself dwelling within the believer. Again agreeing with John 17:

"That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us”... Joh 17:21

Jesus connects Life directly to the Spirit:

"It is the spirit that quickeneth;(makes alive) the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:51-63

This passage is extremely important because Jesus shows that His words are not merely information — they carry spiritual Life.

The Spirit always points back to Christ.

"When the Comforter is come… he shall testify of me.” John 15:26

Later Jesus explains why His departure is necessary:

Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. John 16:7

Remember earlier Jesus said He was currently dwelling with them but later He will be dwelling in them. As a man Jesus was not omnipresent and could only be in one place at a time. After Jesus’ ascension and return to Heaven He could once again be omnipresent to dwell within all believers.

Jesus Tells us the Promise of the Father is the Spirit:

And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. Luke 24:49

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you... Acts 1:8

Power to be witnesses, power over the devil, sin and death. And power to live an overcoming life destined for dominion. Everything Jesus taught while on earth - the Apostles and the early Church lived in fullness.

And by the hands of the Apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people... And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women. Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one. Acts 5:12-16

The Gospel message and the empowering Spirit go together.

Jesus commands them to wait for the promise of the Father:

"Behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you”… Luke 24:49

Then:

"Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…” Acts 1:4-8

What needs to be noted is that Jesus refers to the receiving of the Spirit as being a Promise of the Father. Remember Jesus said He gave the disciples the Father’s words.

"For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them”… John 17:8

So Jesus and the Apostles were not creating something brand new or disconnected from God’s order all along. The “Promise of the Holy Spirit” was the fulfillment of a long prophetic thread running from the Old Testament through the teachings of Christ Himself and on to the Apostles.

What happened at Pentecost was not merely an isolated spiritual experience. It was presented as:

• the fulfillment of prophecy,

• the arrival of the New Covenant,

• the beginning of God dwelling within His people,

• and the continuation of the Gospel that Jesus spent three and a half years already preaching.

Peter’s Declaration in Acts

Peter says:

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 2:38-39

Then:

"For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off…”

That phrase “the promise” reaches backwards into the prophets and forwards into the Church.

Old Testament Promises of the Spirit

1. Joel’s Prophecy — Directly Quoted by Peter

Peter explicitly says Pentecost fulfills this:

"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh…” Joel 2:28-29

Peter quotes this in Acts 2:16-21 - this is foundational because:

• God’s Spirit would no longer rest only on select prophets, priests, or kings.

• The Spirit would be poured broadly upon all - sons, daughters, servants, old and young.

This marked a massive covenant transition and expansion that expands entry into God's Kingdom to "Whoso ever will"

2. Ezekiel — The New Heart and New Spirit

One of the clearest New Covenant promises:

"A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you…”

Then:

"And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes…” Ezekiel 36:26-27

This is extremely important because: the Spirit is tied directly to inner transformation, covenant obedience, and restored relationship with God. The law written externally would become life working internally.

3. Jeremiah — The New Covenant

Though the Spirit is not named directly here, the promise becomes internalized relationship:

"I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts…” Jeremiah 31:31-34

This becomes connected with the Spirit in the New Testament because the Spirit is the One writing God’s word upon the heart.

4. Isaiah — The Spirit Poured Out

"I will pour water upon him that is thirsty… I will pour my spirit upon thy seed…” Isaiah 44:3

"Until the spirit be poured upon us from on high…” Isaiah 32:15

Notice the same imagery Jesus used with the Samaritan woman and in His declaration on the Feast day.

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) John 7:37-39 KJV

The pouring out of the Spirit is associated with our restoration and fruitfulness.

Jesus Confirming the Promise

The Old Testament promises move directly into Christ’s teachings.

1. The Promise of the Father

Jesus says: “Behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you…” Luke 24:49

I know I am repetitive but this is to show the continuity of God's intentions from Old Testament into New. This language directly connects Pentecost back to the prophetic promises. Don't let the words "Old" and "New" make you think 'different.' Rather understand "New" is the fulfillment of the "Old" promises made or payday!

2. Acts 1:4-5

Before Jesus ascended He said:

"Wait for the promise of the Father…”

Then He identifies exactly what that "promise" is:

“"Ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost…”

So Jesus Himself defines the events on Pentecost as the fulfillment of “the promise.”

3. John’s Gospel — Living Water

Jesus says:

"If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink…”

Then John explains:

"this spake he of the Spirit…” John 7:37-39

This ties together:

• Isaiah’s water imagery,

• Joel’s outpouring,

• Ezekiel’s inner transformation,

• and the New Covenant.

Paul Explains the Fulfillment

Paul later identifies the Spirit as the evidence of God fulfilling His promise to Abraham.

"That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles…”

Then:

"That we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Galatians 3:13-14

This is huge. Paul connects:

• The Abrahamic promise,

• with receiving the Spirit,

• and Gentile inclusion,

• All through Christ’s redemption.

The Spirit becomes the living evidence that the covenant promises are ratified and sealed.

"after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise.” Ephesians 1:13-14

The Larger Picture

Under the Old Covenant:

• God dwelt among His people externally,

• in the tabernacle,

• in the temple,

• in the cloud,

• in the fire,

• through the priesthood and prophets.

Under the New Covenant:

• God dwells within His people by the Spirit.

So Pentecost was not merely “power for ministry” and a temporary phenomenon. It was God beginning the promised indwelling presence foretold by the prophets that finds it’s ultimate fulfillment in establishing the Kingdom without end.

The Promise of the Holy Spirit was the fulfillment of God’s ancient promise to dwell within His people, write His ways upon their hearts, pour out His Life upon all flesh, and gather a people joined to Him through Christ. As it was in the beginning when man was inspired by the breath of God to become a living soul - The Holy Spirit is that same breath that completes our restoration into that original relationship with God. We were dead in our trespasses and sins - we are resurrected and "Born again" into a new life as "New Creatures" by the power of the Spirit living within us. What began at Pentecost will culminate in the Bride coming down out of Heaven.

What began through the finished works of Christ at Pentecost:

Ephesians 2:16-22 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby... . (19) Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God... (21) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: (22) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

All finds the ultimate fulfillment at the end. The blueprint is put away and the House is completed.

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:2-4

When Solomon built the first Temple in his day the stones being used were worked and formed in the quarry where they were dug.

The house, while it was being built, was built of stone finished at the quarry, and neither hammer, nor axe, nor any iron tool was heard in the house while it was being built. 1 Kings 6:7 NASB

Likewise the Lively Stones used for God’s eternal habitation are formed and made ready on this earth because Heaven is not a place for the sound of a hammer or ax. Heaven is a place for the assembly of Stones already made complete and we are made complete by Faith in Jesus and the operations of God. The operation of God is made without hands or human intellect and efforts. The Gospel message is the operation of God – cover to cover

Everything we have covered can be reduced to one simple truth: God Himself provided every step necessary to restore mankind back into fellowship with Himself. The Gospel is not man's search for God. It is God's provision for man.

From the first promise in Eden to the final invitation in Revelation, the story never changes. God calls, God provides, God redeems, God transforms, and God ultimately dwells with His people forever. All things begin with God and in the end 'God will be all and in all'.

Yet obeying the Gospel is not the end of the journey. Repentance, baptism, and the infilling of the Holy Spirit are not the finish line - they are the beginning. They are the doorway into a new life. Just as Israel passed through the Red Sea only to begin a journey with God, and just as a child is born into the world only to begin growing and maturing, so the believer enters the Kingdom to learn how to walk with God day by day.

The Gospel brings us into covenant relationship, but God's purpose is not merely to save us from something. His purpose is to transform us into something. He desires a people who not only bear His Name, but also reflect His nature. The same Spirit that brings new birth now begins the lifelong work of sanctification - teaching us to hear His voice, follow His leading, overcome the flesh, and grow into the image of Jesus Christ.

It is not God's desire that any should perish and He has proven that by continually providing the means of salvation over and over again. The invitation to enter the Kingdom is to whosoever will. My hope is that this study has either brought you closer to making a decision to obey the Gospel - or strengthen your understanding and faith to continue to grow in His grace. May God be your God and may you be His child. In Jesus Name. Amen.

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