Keys to Happiness (Matthew 5)

What are the secrets of happiness? Are they really secrets or just ignored? Let’s understand secrets of true, permanent happiness, found in the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:1-12.

Poor in Spirit

And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:1-3 NKJV)

The word usually translated as blessed also means happy. Most translators seem to have come to the same conclusion, that happiness can be fleeting, but blessedness remains. The beatitudes are keys to a core inner condition. So, the word blessed was chosen, because yes, we can be more than happy.

Poor people are dispossessed, abandoned, with a deep sense that the world has failed them. Can the wealthy be poor in spirit? Wealth deceives many into thinking that they are more important than the “little people.” Has the world provided for us or has the world in reality failed all of us?

In the sermon on the plain (Luke 6:20–49) Jesus mentions the poor, but here has a different emphasis. He did not say “poor in possessions” but “poor in spirit.” The description is independent of this material world. The blessed of God rely on God not this world’s possessions, but boldly face the truth of our abject spiritual poverty. We are blessed when heaven rules us, not material possessions.

Poor means destitute and without food, not someone who believes they are spiritually filled, in need of nothing, obnoxious, self-satisfied, shallow, judgmental, and deluded by spiritual fools-gold. Being poor in spirit is simply facing up to the facts. We are all desperately poor and in need of God’s merciful provision.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs IS the kingdom of heaven.” not will be but is. The kingdom of heaven is both the future and here now. True Christians are not spiritually arrogant, deluded, but know that they are neither filled nor satisfied, but apart from God, spiritually destitute.

Mourning

Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted. (Matthew 5:4 NKJV)

There is a time to mourn (Ecclesiastes 3:4). It’s part of repentance and living in a lost world. Mourning prepares a change of heart. Fasting is associated with mourning, humbling ourselves before God (James 4:7-10), cleansing our hands of dirty deeds and purifying our hearts of wrongful thoughts. There is no joy in sin.

What if we never learn from our mistakes? Never mourning for personal sins is a dangerous attitude. Mourning means there is hope for better decisions next time. If we don’t mourn our mistakes, we will never be comforted. So yes, blessed are those that mourn, for THEY will be comforted.

 
Meekness

Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5 NKJV)

This is literally, “the land,” a metaphor for the kingdom. It can also be a metaphor for those more likely to succeed in life. Who is more likely to find favor in the world, the arrogant misfit or the humble team player? Humility is ignored by the proud, to their own hurt. Surely, the meek are blessed and inherit all the good things of life.

Weak people cover failures with lies. Meek people are strong enough to face the truth, that life is a mere vapor. Humble people are good company, not arrogant people. Overbearing buffoons don’t last. Gentle people are loved by all and inherit the land after spineless bullies are long forgotten.

 
Righteousness

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled. (Matthew 5:6 NKJV)

Praying “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,” asks for God’s righteousness on earth. Is this impossible? The Holy Spirit patiently works with us and pricks our consciences to do right. Jesus promises that if we crave justice and what is right, we will be filled.

Righteousness is out of fashion. Our world craves to do wrong, yet there is an emptiness that can only be filled by righteousness. Jesus said blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Those who do, find an incredible sense of happiness beyond words, a blessing directly from heaven.

This is far above the fleeting thrills and hilarity of this world. What is right about right? Wrong produces pleasure for a night, a headache tomorrow and grinding burdens for life. The secret is that righteousness may be difficult, but it leaves unspoiled happiness for this life and the next.

Mercy

Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy. (Matthew 5:7 NKJV)

Our world is cruel, intolerant, indifferent, tyrannical, disdainful, accusatory, punishing, and totally lacking mercy. Who really cares about the sick or needy? Thankfully some tender-hearted souls work with sinners to guide them towards a better life. Jesus promised that if we show mercy, we too will be shown mercy.

Lack of mercy creates a police-state-like atmosphere of secrecy and distrust. Mercy creates an atmosphere of trust, a warm, affirming atmosphere. Without mercy, we tend to cover up problems and leave them unresolved. In an atmosphere of mercy, we are not afraid to admit mistakes and they can be worked on.

Pure-Heartedness

Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God. (Matthew 5:8 NKJV)

The Pharisees were clean on the outside (Matthew 23:26). Being clean before God begins on the inside. It is not naivety but innocence, a motivation to do good without pretense, to carry no malice or dishonesty in our hearts. How can the real world survive without such blessed people?

What results from pure motives, which only come from God (Ezekiel 36:25-27)? The pure hearted will see God. Is that because they see the hand of God behind things? Do those with pure motives look for God in everything and thus see Him? Are our hearts contaminated or pure?

 
Peacemakers

Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9 NKJV)

Imagine the anarchy if nobody tried to negotiate peace. Humanity exists in a constant state of hostility. Peacemakers bring a measure of calm to a potentially escalating situation often at great personal sacrifice. Some people love a good fight. Only peacemakers are blessed to be called the children of God.

Jesus said blessed are the peace-MAKERS, not the peace-attempters. If peacemakers are blessed, are peace-breakers cursed? Nobody likes a troublemaker. Pride may prevent making peace, but necessity demands it. Living in freedom must also include freedom from strife and warfare. Peace does not just happen. It has to be made.

 
Persecution for Righteousness

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. (Matthew 5:10-12 NKJV)

Persecution can be mild criticism or bad enough to flee town (Matthew 20:23). A quarter of Christians suffer severe mistreatment worldwide. If we cherish what is right, loving God, we will be hated. Persecution for righteousness is an indicator telling us clearly that we are on God’s side, and for that, we are blessed.

If we do the right thing, we’ll be insulted and vilified. It’s a badge of honor. It confirms that we are on God’s side. The opposite is also true. If everyone loves us, maybe we are doing something wrong. When harassment comes because we did right, it is a blessing.

Heavenly thinking brings happiness. It’s humility, mourning, meekness, right living, mercy, clean-heartedness, making peace and harassment for doing what is right. Happiness is being more heavenly minded than earthly minded. Let’s learn to be truly happy.

Bible E-Course 23f - In Christ

What does it mean to be in Christ? Let’s allow the Bible to tell us. Several churches claim that eternal life is only available within their walls. Who does Jesus say will have eternal life?

For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16 HCSB)

The Holy Spirit was to be given to those who believe in whom?

But this He said in reference to the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive … (John 7:39a NASB)

Is God the Father in Christ?

But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him. (John 10:38 KJV)

Jesus repeats this elsewhere.

Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own, but the Father, as He remains in Me, does His works. (John 14:10 NASB)

How important is loving Jesus and keeping His words?

Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. (John 14:23 KJV)

What does remaining in Christ mean in regard to bearing spiritual fruit?

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5 NIV)

Does abiding or remaining in Christ mean that God will grant our wishes that are in accordance with His word?

If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. (John 15:7 NKJV)

Is there peace in Christ despite worldly troubles?

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 NLT)

Is there redemption in Christ?

… justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 3:24 ESV)

Are we alive to God in Christ?

So you too, consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus. (Romans 6:11 NASB)

Is there eternal life in Christ?

The wages that sin pays are death, but God’s gift is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23 CEB)

Is there no condemnation for those who are in Christ? Are we free from sin and death?

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:1-2 NKJV)

Is the love of God to be found in Christ?

For I am persuaded that not even death or life, angels or rulers, things present or things to come, hostile powers, height or depth, or any other created thing will have the power to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord! (Romans 8:38-39 HCSB)

Are Christians truly one body if they are in Christ?

So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. (Romans 12:5 KJV)

Are saints those made holy in Christ?

To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified [made holy] in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours (1 Corinthians 1:2 ESV)

Does life await those in Christ?

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. (1 Corinthians 15:22 KJV)

Does God lead us to triumph in Christ?

But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us reveals the fragrance of the knowledge of Him in every place. (2 Corinthians 2:14 NASB)

Does reading the Old Testament without the teachings of Christ mean that a veil covers people’s thinking? Is that veil uncovered only in Christ?

… because only in Christ is it taken away. Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. (2 Corinthians 3:13-15 NIV)

Are we a new creation in Christ?

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV)

Is there reconciliation between God and man in Christ?

For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. (2 Corinthians 5:19 NLT)

Is devotion to Christ simple, that is, sincere and pure?

But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity [sincere and pure devotion] that is in Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:3 NKJV)

What’s more important, for churches to be in the “right” denomination or in Christ?

And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. (Galatians 1:22 ESV)

Do some still try to make us slaves, and take away our freedom in Christ?

But false brothers and sisters, who were brought in secretly, slipped in to spy on our freedom, which we have in Christ Jesus, and to make us slaves. (Galatians 2:4 CEB)

Are we justified (declared just, made right with God) by the works of the law or faith in Jesus Christ?

know that no one is justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ. And we have believed in Christ Jesus so that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no human being will be justified. (Galatians 2:16 HCSB)

What does it mean to be chosen in Christ?

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. (Ephesians 1:4 NLT)

Are God’s people all part of the same body?

All of you are part of the same body. There is only one Spirit of God, just as you were given one hope when you were chosen to be God's people. (Ephesians 4:4 CEV)

Are those in Christ seated in heavenly places? Are we created in Christ Jesus for good works?

But God… raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus… For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. (Ephesians 2:4-9 NASB)

Is there righteousness through faith in Christ?

… I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith. (Philippians 3:9 NLT)

How do we know that we are in Him?

But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked. (1 John 2:5-6 NKJV)

In Christ is eternal life, peace, triumph, freedom. Those in Christ are also in the Father. Those who remain in Christ bear much fruit. We are one body in Christ. In Christ we are a new creation. Let’s be in Christ and remain in Him. You decide!

Bible E-Course 23e - Turning to God

Conversion is turning to God. It is the action accompanying repentance, the outward result of a changed heart, a changed direction, in biblical Greek ἐπιστροφή (epistrophé) a turning about. It is the fruit that John the Baptist demanded (Matthew 3:7-8). Do repentance and conversion go together?

Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19 NKJV)

This also connects a promise, that our sins may be blotted out. Is repentance changing our minds about acts that lead to death?

Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God… (Hebrews 6:1-2 NIV)

A similar word in Hebrew is שׁוּב (shoob) meaning simply to turn back. In some contexts, it is the action step after an inner change of heart.

Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted [turn back] unto thee. (Psalm 51:12-13 KJV)

Does conversion include a child-like attitude?

Then he said, “I tell you the truth, unless you [are converted] turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew 18:3 NLT)

Paul’s Conversion

Is Saul’s (Paul’s) conversion an object lesson in a life turned about?

Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. (Acts 9:1-2 NKJV)

Since his involvement in the murder of Stephen the martyr, Saul had lived and breathed threats and murder of the people of the Way, as early Christians were called, from Jesus saying “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) Was Saul about to have an encounter?

As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” (Acts 9:3-4 NKJV)

What did Saul do?

And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” So he, trembling and astonished, said, “Lord, what do You want me to do?” Then the Lord said to him, “Arise and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:5-6 NKJV)

Was Saul physically affected by this encounter? Did he fast?

And the men who journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice but seeing no one. Then Saul arose from the ground, and when his eyes were opened he saw no one. But they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank. (Acts 9:7-9 NKJV)

Through whom did the Lord work to restore Saul’s sight?

Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.” (Acts 9:10-12 NKJV)

What was Ananias’ concern?

Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” (Acts 9:13-14 NKJV)

What did the Lord say?

But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” (Acts 9:15-16 NKJV)

What did Ananias then do?

And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized. (Acts 9:17-18 NKJV)

What did Saul do?

So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent some days with the disciples at Damascus. Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God. (Acts 9:19-20 NKJV)

Saul turned or converted from persecuting the people of the Way, to preaching the Way, bringing others to convert or turn from darkness to the light. Did he later recount the resurrected Jesus’ instructions?

I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’ (Acts 26:17-18 NKJV)

Conversion is a turning around, from darkness to light, from death and hell to eternal life in Christ, from sin to God. Will you let God turn your life around? You decide!

Bible E-Course 23d - Born from Above

What does it mean to be born again? How are we born of water and the Spirit? Let’s understand the newness of a life in the Holy Spirit from John 3:1-17.

Nicodemus

There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. (John 3:1 NKJV)

Nicodemus was a senator in the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. He appears three times in the Gospel of John (John 3:1–2; 7:50-51; 19:38-39). Jesus explained to this wealthy and popular Jewish leader the mystery of regeneration as was taught by the prophets.

Nicodemus was not offended at Jesus’ teaching but received it in all humility. He later defended Jesus at His trial, and with Joseph of Arimathea, assisted at His burial. History reveals that he was eventually kicked out of the synagogue for believing in Christ, and later retired to a country home where he died.

Come to the Light

This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.” (John 3:2 NKJV)

In the dark of night Nicodemus came to the Light. Others also were involved. He said, “we know.” God’s word is “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105). It leads us from darkness to “the light of the world” (John 8:12).

Born from Above

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly [Amen, Amen], I say to you, unless one is born again [regenerated from above], he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3 NKJV)

To be “born again” also means “born from above,” from heaven. To be born from heaven above is to belong to heaven, as a child of God.

The so-called “sinner’s prayer” is usually disconnected from important rituals established by Jesus and the Apostles. But, Peter connects them when He says, “repent and be baptized” (Acts 2:38). Paul connects them, “He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:3-7).

Paul described the new birth by saying, “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Literal or Spiritual

Nicodemus said to Him [Jesus], “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” (John 3:4 NKJV)

Nicodemus heard only “born again” missing the spiritual meaning of being “born from above.”

Born of Water and the Spirit

Jesus answered, “Most assuredly [literally: Amen, Amen], I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5 NKJV)

This is a very exclusive claim. Christian baptism is both the water and the Spirit, a synthesis of human and divine work. Baptism is a physical thing through which God grants a divine grace. Combining the human and divine elements is why it’s called “one baptism” (Ephesians 4:5).

Spiritual Life

That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (John 3:6 NKJV)

Each of us who is born flesh will die. Each of us who are born of water and the Spirit live forever. Thus the Christian life is eternal, regenerated from above.

Born of the Spirit

Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again [from above].’ The wind [or Spirit] blows [or breathes] where it [He] wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:7-8 NKJV)

The Spirit breathes where He wishes. Paul wrote, “all scripture is God-breathed” (1 Timothy 3:16 NIV). Some are skeptics. By the flesh, we cannot tell where the Holy Spirit comes from or where He is going. Christianity is a life of faith trusting where God’s Spirit breathes.

Heavenly Things

Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness.” If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? (John 3:9-12 NKJV)

Who are the “we” that Jesus refers to? As Nicodemus said, “we” know that You are a teacher come from God, so Jesus probably included His disciples.

Who is in Heaven

No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. (John 3:13 NKJV)

The tense is the present participle active, “the Son of Man who is in heaven.” Jesus “is” in heaven even while He “was” on earth. Jesus’ divine nature was in heaven, and His human nature was on earth.

Lifted Up on a Pole

And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:14-15 NKJV)

God instructed Israel to look at a bronze snake on a pole and they would live (Numbers 21:4-9). The snake has symbolized sin since the garden. Jesus was lifted up on a pole to bear our sins and cleanse us. If we will keep our eyes on Jesus on the cross we will also live.

How God Loved the World

For God so [thus] loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes [has faith] in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16 NKJV)

The words “so loved the world” mean “in this way” or “in this manner” God loved the world. We could also say that God loved the world in this manner. How did God love the world? By lifting up his son on the cross as Moses lifted up a serpent.

Is faith a gift, a choice or both? One text is often misunderstood because of a difference in grammar between English and Greek. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that [being saved by grace] not of yourselves; it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

Saving the World

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:17 NKJV)

To a world condemned by sin, God sent His Son to save and not condemn.

Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God--children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. (John 1:12-13 NIV)

Regeneration is being born of God.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1 Peter 1:3 NASB)

Jesus’ resurrection is central to our faith.

Nicodemus learned about being born from above, a total change of character, lifestyle, affections, and goals. If any of us are still trapped in our old hateful and narcissistic ways, let’s come out of the dark and ask the Light of the world about being born again. You decide!

The Mystery of Baptism

The Baptism of Christ sets baptism as a norm for Christians. Division over the mode or age of baptism are non-essentials because neither is specified in the Bible. Let’s explore the mystery of baptism in Matthew 3:13-17.

Leadership

Matthew 3:13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. 14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?”

We learn several key things about leadership from the baptism of Jesus. Real leaders are not so afraid of their positions that they cannot submit to the leadership of others at appropriate times. Jesus the Son of God, was superior to John, yet he submitted to John’s baptism. What humility!

Real leaders willingly submit to rituals of public cleansing even when they have no fault in a matter. Jesus was faultless and did not need to submit to a ritual of repentance. For example, weak cowards refuse to apologize. True leaders willingly apologize even when there is no need to.

Righteousness

Matthew 3:15 But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him.

In a choice between two good things, do we do the right thing or the righteous thing? Which choice is God’s will? As Jesus approached John to be baptized, the right thing in John’s mind was that he should be baptized by Jesus.

However, Jesus’ purpose at that time was humility not position. He was born in a stable, served an itinerant ministry and died on a cross. What was God’s reaction to Jesus’ taking the lesser position? He was well-pleased. Do we always demand our rights or willingly fulfill all righteousness?

Dip or Wash

Matthew 3:16-17 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

Who is right about baptism, the dippers, washers, pourers, sprinklers or all? Baptize literally means to dip, but in the Bible it is not always used literally. It can mean to wash (Mark 7:4; Luke 11:38; Acts 22:16). The baptism of the Holy Spirit is pictured by Him being poured out (Joel 2:28–29; Acts 10:44-45) and the washing of regeneration (Titus 3:5). Old Testament purification rituals included sprinkling to picture spiritual cleansing (Ezekiel 36:25; Hebrews 10:22).

The Bible is deliberately vague as to which mode of baptism is preferable, a literal immersion, or a symbolic washing by pouring or sprinkling.

When Jesus came up out of the water, it could have been ankle deep. Israel was baptized into Moses by walking dry shod through the Red Sea (1 Corinthians 10:1-4). Less literal modes of baptism symbolizing a washing by sprinkling or pouring water are also legitimate.

Baptism is the principal sacrament, a physical act with divine grace. Jesus was baptized though the mode is perhaps purposefully unclear. Baptism pictures a new beginning (1 Corinthians 10:2, 1 Peter 3:20-21), Jesus’ suffering (Luke 12:50) and washing away our sins (Mark 7:4; Titus 3:5).

Invoking the Trinity is mandated (Matthew 28:19) but the mode and age of baptism are not, anywhere. Baptism of the Holy Spirit is pictured by fire on people’s heads (Acts 1:5; 2:3). Renewal and rebirth differs baptism from any other sacraments (John 3:5; Titus 3:5).

Jesus came "up out of the water" after his baptism (Matthew 3:16). Literally He came "up away from the water.” Early mosaics show John pouring water over him from a shell. It is perhaps purposefully vague whether He was immersed or stood ankle deep. The mode seems deliberately left out. It is therefore a non-essential of our common faith.

Repentance and baptism for the forgiveness of sins and receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38-39) included the whole family. Baptism is to wash away sins (Acts 22:16). God elsewhere gave the Holy Spirit to people before physical baptism (Acts 10:45-48). Jesus declared baptism necessary (John 3:5).

It is a baptism into Jesus, his death and new life (Romans 6:3-5). It is like circumcision (Colossians 2:11-13), which was performed on children. Three whole households were baptized (Acts 16:15; 16:33; 1 Corinthians 1:16). Baptism is a physical and spiritual washing and must invoke the Trinity.

A baptism of repentance alone is not the baptism of Christ or His church (Acts 19:1-6). What about a “believer's baptism”? The Ethiopian eunuch could be baptized if he believed (Acts 8:36-38). Being baptized and receiving the Holy Spirit are not always the same event (Acts 8:14-17).

God gives the Holy Spirit when He chooses. Infant baptism and later confirmation recognize this. Acts 2:41 shows 3,000 baptized after hearing and accepting only one sermon. In churches where Christ’s commands in a Gospel text are taught weekly (Matthew 28:20) then every sermon is a catechism.

Baptism is the most important of all outward rites of divine grace. It is more important than marriage, ordination, anointing the sick or whether we take communion weekly, monthly or annually. It is the initiatory rite into our journey from the kingdoms of this world into the kingdom of God. Are you ready for baptism? You decide!

Bible E-Course 23c - Chosen

Is there a group of people called the chosen ones, the elect?

If God doesn’t make the time shorter, no one will be left alive. But because of God’s chosen ones [the elect], he will make the time shorter. (Matthew 24:22 CEV)

How are people chosen for life? Does God’s sovereignty turn us into robots who cannot resist His grace or is human willingness also involved? What did Jesus say to some Jews who were persecuting Him?

And you are not willing to come to Me so that you may have life. (John 5:40 HCSB)

Is belief also our choice?

Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am, you will die in your sins. (John 8:24 NASB)

When God calls, must we still respond by coming to Jesus?

All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away. (John 6:37 NIV)

Does God draw us?

No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. (John 6:44 NKJV)

Are those who plant and water in the church fellow workers with God? Do we all have our part to play?

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. (1 Corinthians 3:9 KJV)

What did Joshua say about making a choice?

But if it seems wrong in your opinion to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Choose the gods whom your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you live. But my family and I will serve the Lord. (Joshua 24:15 CEB)

When God knocks on our door, do we choose to open or not?

Listen! I am standing and knocking at your door. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and we will eat together. (Revelation 3:20 CEV)

Must we want to follow Jesus?

He called the multitude to himself with his disciples, and said to them, “Whoever wants to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” (Mark 8:34 WEB)

Must we choose to do God’s will?

Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own. (John 7:17 NIV)

Do some Christians choose to rebel against the laws of the land?

So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. (Romans 13:2 NLT)

Do some Christians choose to indulge the flesh?

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (Galatians 5:13 ESV)

Does being chosen include being justified or given a right standing with God?

Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. (Romans 8:33 NLT)

Are they chosen to be the holy people? Once chosen must we still choose to clothe ourselves spiritually?

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. (Colossians 3:12 NLT)

What did Peter write about being chosen?

He chose you through the Holy Spirit’s work of making you holy and because of the faithful obedience and sacrifice of Jesus Christ… But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. (1 Peter 1:2; 2:9 ESV)

We have our choice to respond to Christ’s call to discipleship or walk away like the rich young man, to answer Christ’s knock on our door and let Him in to eat with us or not. When did God make His choice?

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. (Ephesians 1:4 NLT)

How dangerous is it to choose to turn away after becoming a Christian?

But what about people who turn away after they have already seen the light and have received the gift from heaven and have shared in the Holy Spirit? What about those who turn away after they have received the good message of God and the powers of the future world? There is no way to bring them back. What they are doing is the same as nailing the Son of God to a cross and insulting him in public! (Hebrews 6:4-6 CEV)

In the midst of waning Christian love, who will receive salvation?

And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. (Matthew 24:12-13 NKJV)

God grant us strength to endure! Jesus stands at the door and knocks. Before the foundation of the world, God chose those who would open the door and let Christ in, to become holy saints. Some respond favorably. Some turn away or fall away later. What’s your response? You decide!

Matthew 2 Jesus as Refugee

Mistreatment of others is part of every nation’s history. Let’s recognize humanity’s mistreatment of foreigners and innocent children, and Jesus as the world’s only hope, in Matthew 2:13-23.

Fleeing to Egypt

Now when they [the wise men] had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.” 14 When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, 15 and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.” (Matthew 2:13-15 NKJV)

We are confronted by the fact that peace on earth is not yet here, not even in the church. Instead, the news was of yet another brutal monarch killing people, children under two years of age. Jesus’ family fled to Egypt. Jesus identified from childhood with all who suffer persecution.

Prejudice against the Bible as a historic record dismisses Herod’s massacre of the innocents as an unsupported myth. Yet, much of ancient history is only found in one place. Herod’s murder of several boys under two in Bethlehem is only recorded in Matthew. Other historical records do show this as typical of Herod, who also murdered many others including a wife and three sons. As a result, Jesus and His parents became stateless refugees.

Massacre of the Innocents

Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men. 17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying: 18 “A voice was heard in Ramah, Lamentation, weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, Refusing to be comforted, Because they are no more.” (Matthew 2:16-18 NKJV)

Human history is filled with refugees fleeing atrocities. Jesus was a foreigner in Egypt and later in Nazareth. Under God’s law, He reminded them that uncircumcised foreigners must be given the same poverty relief as a native born citizen (Deuteronomy 10:18-21), and live by the same legal standard (Numbers 15:13-16). God watches for the welfare of the foreigner and other disadvantaged groups (Psalm 146:9).

God will bless a people that does not oppress foreigners (Jeremiah 7:5-7). In the New Testament we are told that God will speak the Gospel through foreigners, but Christians of all nations are not foreigners to each other, though foreigners to the world. Their citizenship is in heaven.

One of the saddest stories of Christmas is the murder of little children. We decry the senseless murder of innocent children at a school shooting and the perverted treatment of little ones in child porn and then turn a blind eye to the greatest abuse of our children, abortion.

We kill innocent children mostly for convenience. We abhor rape yet punish the innocent children who had nothing to do with the crime. We decry terrorism, but terrorize innocent children. Let’s turn from this evil and ask God for forgiveness. He is merciful and forgives those who repent.

When Christians support those who oppress and deny refuge to hungry and persecuted immigrants who are only seeking a free and safe place to live, they are sinning. Throughout the Bible, foreigners, aliens and strangers are to be treated well (Exodus 22:21; 23:9; Leviticus 19:33-34; 25:35-37; Deuteronomy 10:18-19; 24:14-17; 23:16; 27:19; Psalm 146:9; Jeremiah 7:6; 22:3; Ezekiel 22:7; 47:22-23; Zechariah 7:10; Malachi 3:5; Matthew 25:43; Ephesians 2:19; Hebrews 11:13; 13:2).

The Home in Nazareth

Now when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20 saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the young Child’s life are dead.” 21 Then he arose, took the young Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. And being warned by God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. 23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, “He shall be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:19-23 NKJV)

Jesus moved to the provincial town of Nazareth and later from there as an adult, began a ministry telling of the good news of peace. Jesus lived in Nazareth among a people despised and rejected (John 1:46; 7:52) and He too was eventually despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:2-3, 7-9, 12; Psalm 22) .

Mistreatment of fellow human beings, born and unborn continues. Jesus, the world’s only hope, lived the plight of a foreign refugee and died so that our sins may be forgiven. Let’s turn from the sins of the world, including its mistreatment of children and foreigners. Let’s turn to God and live forever in peace. You decide!