Chron7pt10

Mt 3:5 (pt 6). AND ALL THE (whole) REGION (or district) (AROUND) (the) JORDAN. God sent the people to John. John was making an impact. Note the order that is given of the people coming to John. The people kept coming and coming. Multitudes of people did believe John the Baptist was a profit from God-ref Mt 21:26.

CHURCHES TODAY

TODAY’S CHURCH

Note—In India as well as Africa, some people are willing to travel miles each day on foot and hundreds of miles by other means to hear preaching such as John the Baptist did.
In Europe, the United States, Canada, and other industrialized areas where a high standard of living exists, most people are not willing to humble themselves. They are not willing to walk across the street to hear this type of teaching. They are not even willing to turn on their television to listen, even when it is brought to them in their house. Most want to be entertained, not convicted of their sins and ungodly lifestyle. Most are into self interest, not following Jesus.
Yet the people in Judea came from long distances, mostly by foot, to the wilderness to hear the teaching of John the Baptist. Some humbled themselves, shared his reproach, repented, and got baptized. Some came for other reasons such as mocking, accusing and disputing. Those called of God will go out, leaving the hustle, the pressures and tensions of this life to seek the real milk of the Word with a soft heart. They will be still, listen, and examine themselves by God’s Word.
Yet then, as today, as one travels forward in time, perhaps a year or more, few of those people have continued steadfast in the Word. Few are growing in faith and knowledge as witnessed by their fruits-ref Mt 7:13,14, 20-23; Gal 3:1-4. They became forgetful hearers-Ja 1:25. They have a wayside, stony, or thorny heart. They fall away-ref Lk 8:13. Many do the works of God and look holy when they go to church. Then they go home, act like the devil, and justify themselves.
Today, the large, beautiful, comfortable, air conditioned, churches in America and other places with their elegant choirs, superb entertainment, soft seats, and nice, relaxed, non-convicting type of teaching, certainly attract people. People want to be made to feel good about themselves and be comforted. They do not want to be condemned and admonished because of their sin and the way they act.
These churches usually produce few converts that can stand against the schemes of the devil. This is a far cry from the uncomfortable, barren, wilderness where John called the sinners exactly what they were—vipers, and spoke of the wrath to come, and fire. The area in which John preached is below sea level. It may also have been hot.

Mt 3:6, ref Mk 1:5 (pt 8). AND WERE (being) BAPTIZED (or immersed). The word baptize (or baptizo) means to immerse, to submerge, or dip completely under. The verses continue—
(BY) HIM. First repentance was preached, and then those that were willing to admit and repent of their sins, were baptized by John the Baptist. The verses continue—
IN (the) JORDAN (River). Ro 6:4 and Col 2:12 came after the resurrection of Christ, but nevertheless clearly shows that water baptism is not by sprinkling. It is written: BURIED WITH HIM IN BAPTISM (or buried in the water) INTO DEATH. Christian baptism—after the death and resurrection of Christ as well as John’s baptism is and was by full immersion. Sprinkling and infant baptism are counterfeits—in essence they are no baptisms at all. Man and religion (especially Catholicism) has turned the right way into a counterfeit way which is no way. Water baptism today is reserved for those that have placed their trust in Jesus Christ as their only hope of salvation. A baby cannot do this. The verses continue—
(AS THEY CONFESSED THEIR SINS-NASB). Note, a public confession of their sins went hand in hand with baptism which was a result of repentance. The confession was more than publicly admitting the guilt of their sins under conviction from God, it was a childlike willingness from the heart to turn from sin by the power of God. The people were repenting and looking forward to coming of the Christ. Pride needs to be repented of and destroyed in the life of a true born again Christian. People that wish to follow Christ, need to humble themselves, face the difficulty of self examination by the Word of God, and then confession. It is a humbling experience to openly confess ones sins before many people. Pride, self will, and being concerned about what people will think will seldom do this. True repentance, will. A baby cannot confess their sins.
The doctrine of REPENTANCE, open confession, and humiliation is something people do not want to hear in this generation. Perhaps that is one reason why there are so few real conversions. Most people that claim they are a Christian and believe they are going to heaven, are not known by Christ. When humility is absent, so is salvation. Being wise in ones eyes, self centered, or conceited, is the pathway to hell. There will be no conceit and pride in hell-ref Isa 14:15-17. By a person confessing that they are guilty of sin and worthy of death, they become pardoned and receive life by the grace and mercy of God. Jesus came to call sinners to repentance, not the righteous. For more on “repentance” see Mt 3:8; 3:11 (pt 2); Lk 3:3 (pt 2); Lk 3:18; Jn 3:18.
Note-Those people that read this, that attend a church that does infant baptism and or sprinkling baptism, it is suggested that you depart from that church and find one that understands the Scriptures more clearly. If they do not, they may be found to be a follower of the blind which lead the blind. This also includes those that baptize in the name of Jesus (which symbolizes that they do not believe one God which is manifested in the three persons of the Trinity).

Mt 3:7 (pt 1). BUT WHEN HE SAW MANY OF THE PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES COME TO HIS BAPTISM (or coming to where he was baptizing-NIV, or coming to be immersed by him-JNT).

PHARISEES

It is reported that the religious group, (or what we today might call the denomination of the Pharisees) originated about 130 years before Christ was born. It has been estimated by one authority that they numbered about 6000. It is reported that their name meant “separated ones”. They sat in Moses’ seat-ref Mt 23:2. They were unsaved, hypocritical religious leaders during the time of Jesus. They tried to follow the Mosaic law exactly, however their understanding of the law was often flawed. They instigated many of their own laws and traditions which were contrary to good sound teaching, and which made God’s Word of none effect-ref Mt 23:13-35; Mk 7:13. They taught for doctrines the commandments of men-ref Mt 15:9. Many of them did not think of themselves as sinners-ref Lk 18:10,11. In Judaism, the Pharisees were very influential. Nearly all people thought of them as very Godly-Lk 11:44. They loved the chief seats in the synagogues, greetings in the markets, and to be called Rabbi, Rabbi-ref Mt 23:6,7. They honored God with their words, but in vain, they worshipped Him. Their hearts were far from Him-ref Mt 15:8,9. They were far from God. They were blind leaders of the blind-ref Mt 15:13,14. They were envious of Jesus-ref Mt 27:18 and Mk 15:10. They were enemies of Christ. These orthodox men often ridiculed, and tried to discredit the teachings of Jesus openly. They even went so far as to say of Jesus that he cast out devils by Beelzebub the prince of the devils and that He had an unclean spirit-ref Mt 12:24; Mk 3:30. Some were so evil that they committed the unforgivable sin and thus had no possible hope of ever being saved-ref Mk 3:28-30. They thought and feared that if they left him alone that all men would come to believe on Him and the Romans would come and take away their nation-ref Jn 11:48. What a shock if must have been to them as John told them to repent.
They rejected God’s message spoken through John-ref Lk 7:30. They, as well as the people—questioned, mocked, and accused both John and later Jesus of many things. Many did not believe John. Some even accused John of having a devil-ref Mt 11:18; 21:32.
They were so hard and evil, that even though they knew and admitted Jesus had done many miracles, they knew he raised the dead-ref Jn 11:44-47, and they knew He was of God, yet they hated Him-ref Jn 3:2 and 11:47. They were so evil that they even wanted to kill Lazarus whom Jesus had raised from the dead-ref Jn 12:10. Later, they knew that God raised Jesus from the dead, yet they still tried to stop those preaching in His name-ref Mt 28:11-13 and Acts 3:12-17, 4:1-18.
There are many such, righteous and holy looking, but spiritually blind, religious leaders in today’s churches also. There are multitudes of spiritually blind people that think both their religious leaders and themselves are of God but they will eternally perish, as it is written-ref 2 Cor 11:13-15.

SADDUCEES

The religious group of the Sadducees were those that said there is NO RESURRECTION, NEITHER ANGEL, NOR SPIRIT-Acts 23:8, ref Mt 22:23. It has been said that these were anti-religious. They did not believe that the dead would rise. The two groups (the Pharisees and Sadducees) believed differently and were adversaries, yet they joined together in their opposition to Jesus Christ. John’s impact was so great that even many of these religious leaders came. What a shock it must have been to them as John by the direction of the Holy Spirit also told them to repent, yet they would not. Jesus (Who is God) showed them clearly through the Scriptures that they did greatly err-ref Mk 12:27, that they did not know (or understand) the Scriptures, neither the power of God-ref Mk 12:24. When Jesus had finished correcting the Sadducees the people were astonished. Even the Pharisees heard or admitted that Jesus had effectively showed the Sadducees that they were wrong. The Sadducees were put to silence-ref Mt 22:34. Yet despite this, did they repent? The answer is no. They continued in the error of their ways.
They now know they were wrong. When people die the first death upon the earth, they go to be with Jesus (if they are born-again), or they go to hell-ref Lk 16:22,23.
It is reported that they seemed to die out after the destruction of Jerusalem in about 70 A.D.
Much of what is called the Christian church of today is as the Pharisees and Sadducees of the days of Jesus. They are set in their deceived ways. They have little true understanding of the Scriptures, yet they do not believe this. Many deceived people follow these blind leaders of the blind and do not understand that they will perish.

FUNERALS

When have you ever heard a preacher or priest today say at a funeral that the dead person was now in hell being tormented. The Scriptures clearly show that this is what happens to most people, yet much of today’s clergy seem to indicate that their people all go to heaven when they die. Many claim to be a Christian, but have little understanding of what it means to be a real, born again Christian as indicated by their converted attitude and their fruits.. They have a knowledge of God in their minds, but He is not in their hearts doing a life changing work in their lives.

Lk 3:7 (pt 1).    THEN (John), that is John the Baptist—

Mt 3:7 (pt 2), ref Lk 3:7 (pt 2). HE SAID

Mt 3:7 (pt 3), ref Lk 3:7 (pt 3). (TO)

Mt 3:7 (pt 4).    THEM,

Lk 3:7 (pt 4).    THE (CROWDS). John did not preach at the people as most do today. He did not preach
about the Bible, or about the law, or about the prophets. He preached directly to their hearts the actual Words of God. This kind of teaching IS QUICK, AND POWERFUL, AND SHARPER THAN ANY TWOEDGED SWORD, PIERCING EVEN TO THE DIVIDING ASUNDER OF SOUL AND SPIRIT, AND OF THE JOINTS AND MARROW, AND IS A DISCERNER OF THE THOUGHTS AND INTENTS OF THE HEART-Heb 4:12. This is the kind of preaching that makes some repent, while some others become hostile. John did not teach to please men, but to please God. Most people in most churches have never heard this kind of teaching. The verse continues—

Lk 3:7 (pt 5).    THAT CAME FORTH TO BE BAPTIZED (or immersed) (BY) HIM. Note, “crowds” came. There were many people that repented and came to be baptized. The verses continue—

Mt 3:7 (pt 5), ref Lk 3:7 (pt 6). O GENERATION (or brood) OF (SNAKES). Note, John spoke to them harshly and honestly. His words seem motivated by the fact that he seen the Pharisees and Sadducees coming. He spoke to the crowds which especially included the Pharisees, Sadducees (that is the religious leaders), but even those that were repenting—he called them snakes. He cut right through their self righteous exterior openly.
Jesus also called the Pharisees serpents, ye generation of vipers-ref Mt 23:33. Jesus went on to say, How can ye escape the damnation of hell?-ref Mt 23:33.
God, through John was also telling Israel exactly what they were and that they need to repent. Regretfully, there is little honest preaching of this kind in the generation we now live. Biblically illiterate people today might say, “God would never speak to people this way. God is love.” Indeed, before people are Biblically saved, it may be said of many that they are a generation of snakes. John said—
WHO (HAS) WARNED YOU TO FLEE (or escape)
FROM THE WRATH (or punishment) TO COME? We escape the wrath to come through repentance and faith in Jesus. From the question that John asked, there also came forth a prophecy. That prophecy was that there was going to be a time of wrath coming.
Within about 40 years, the Roman army did come and destroyed Jerusalem and the nation of Israel.
One may also consider the wrath of God to come during the tribulation period and immediately after the tribulation which is the Battle of Armageddon. Following Armageddon, then there is the judgment when Jesus has returned and sits upon the Throne of His Glory-ref Mt 25:31. The word “wrath” is mentioned about 13 times in the Revelation as pertaining to the tribulation period.
One might consider the wrath of Satan that will come during the tribulation period, as it is written: Rev 12:12-WOE TO THE INHABITERS OF THE EARTH AND OF THE SEA! FOR THE DEVIL IS COME DOWN UNTO YOU, HAVING GREAT WRATH, BECAUSE HE KNOWETH THAT HE HATH BUT A SHORT TIME.
One might consider the final judgment that will come is upon all unrepentant people. We are told to flee, flee from the wrath that is to come—flee to Christ and His mercy. The verses continue—

Mt 3:8, ref Lk 3:8 (pt 1). BRING FORTH THEREFORE (or produce, or bear) FRUITS
(WORTHY). Note, it is written in Lk 21:36-PRAY ALWAYS, THAT YE MAY BE ACCOUNTED WORTHY…TO STAND BEFORE THE SON OF MAN. The verses continue—
(OF) REPENTANCE (or fruit in keeping with repentance-NASB) (or if you have really turned from your sins to God, produce fruit that will prove it!-JNT). In other words, bring forth evidence that is befitting of repentance and that will prove you have truly repented. Repentance is not saying you are sorry and ashamed of your sins, but yet you continue to do them. To try and correct the unrepentant people, and especially the religious leaders was insulting to them, as it is written, THE PHARISEES WERE OFFENDED, AFTER THEY HEARD THIS SAYING-Mt 15:12.
By the fruits each of us display, it can be known if repentance was real or was in word only. Trees with bad fruit, that is thorns or thistles in their attitude and works, or bear no good fruit are cut down and thrown into the fire.

REPENTANCE

For more on “repentance” see Mt 3:6; 3:11 (pt 2); Lk 3:3 (pt 2); Lk 3:18; Jn 3:18.
(Pg. 122; 124; 125; 126; 135; 148; 267; 280)

For a person to say they are saved, to pretend they are saved, and to try and act and talk like they are saved is not repentance. To turn over a new leaf as some might say is not repentance. Repentance is not a work, but a command that involves the surrender of ones self to God from the heart. It is putting away the willful practice of sin, rebellion, stubbornness, pride, and selfishness (or self-centeredness) from the heart under conviction from the Holy Spirit. Without repentance there can be no salvation. Mt 7:22,23 illustrate that many people do works that look like they are of God, but true enduring Biblical repentance did not take place. They perish. The result of true faith (or trust) in Jesus Christ is being converted, being born-again, being changed, renewed, putting off the old man, and putting on the new man. The proof or evidence of true Biblical faith in Jesus Christ, of being converted, of being born-again, is a changed attitude from the heart and the putting away of the willful practice of sin, including stubbornness and rebellion against God and His Word. A changed life emerges that begins to reflect being conformed to the image of Christ-ref Ro 8:29. Where once there was stubbornness and excuses, now there is a loving, willing heart. There now emerges a childlike, humble attitude to God’s correction. The fruits of the Spirit of God and the works of God that are prompted or produced as a result of faith begin to come forth. Thus, the judgments are according to works—the evidence of faith. Many say they have faith in Christ, but there is no evidence of true Biblical repentance and trust. As it was just written, IF YOU HAVE REALLY TURNED FROM YOUR SINS TO GOD, PRODUCE FRUIT THAT WILL PROVE IT!-Mt 3:8 JNT. (Produce fruit in keeping with repentance-NIV.) Every person that does not bring forth good fruit is cut down and shall perish-ref Mt 7:19. True biblical baptism by immersion does follow repentance, however, not everyone that does get baptized has Biblically repented. John begins to address what a changed attitude should reflect in some of the verses to follow. Repentance is turning from your sins and faith is turning to God with fruits as evidence. Water baptism was for those that had truly repented. Apart from true repentance from the heart, and genuine trust in the Jesus Christ, water baptism has no meaning. The verses continue—

Mt 3:9 (pt 1). AND THINK NOT

Lk 3:8 (pt 2). AND BEGIN NOT

Mt 3:9 (pt 2), ref Lk 3:8 (pt 3). TO SAY (or think), or make excuses

Mt 3:9 (pt 3), ref Lk 3:8 (pt 4). WITHIN YOURSELVES (or don’t suppose you can comfort yourselves by saying-JNT). In other words, don’t even begin to think you are justified and saved. The unrepentant, worldly, and vain heart can find many ways and excuses to make itself believe it is going to heaven. However, there is only one true way—it is through true repentance and trust in the Messiah. God knows our ungodly thoughts and words. God’s Word does not profit us if our hearts choose to believe the lying thoughts we have that contradict His ways. Humbleness is needed if one is to follow God.
A person is not to even think or say—
WE HAVE ABRAHAM (FOR) OUR FATHER. These words struck at the very heart of the Jews. Many thought they were saved because they were of the seed of Abraham. They did not understand that it was not through natural descent that they would be saved. They did not understand that it is through belief, trust, or faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that they were really Abraham’s seed and heirs of the promise-ref Gal 3:9,29. This is what is accounted for righteousness-ref Gen 15:6. John knew some of the people would justify themselves or make excuses in such a way that they would reject God’s message. John warned the people not to even have thoughts that they might be saved because they were descended from Abraham. Salvation is not inherited. Many in this generation also make excuses justifying themselves as to why God will let them in to heaven. Many wrongly think they are saved because their parents were saved, or they are married to a preacher, they sing in the choir, go to a Christian church, or may be of a certain race, or nation, or do good works, or are a good person. Millions trust in their own goodness. Multitudes today do nearly the same thing in saying that they have their own religion, denomination or church. They put their trust in that. John is saying that they should not even begin to think that such things have any bearing regarding being saved. Many try to enter heaven through another way, another Gospel, or a Gospel of self reliance. Many do not want to admit how sinful they are. Some even think they are perfect and sinless. They do not want to repent and change their habits and lifestyles. They do not choose to fear God. They do not want to believe they will perish to hell. John’s message here was a warning for people (which may include you) not to believe the wrong thoughts or feelings they had that they were saved. Salvation has nothing to do with the position or job a person holds (such as a priest, preacher, or rabbi), or with the religion or church a person is part of, or with the good works a person does, or with a person’s birth or nationality. Multitudes in hell felt they were saved, but their feelings were wrong.
In Jn 8:39-56, about 3 years later, the Jews did indeed use the very words that John said not to do when they were talking to Jesus. Jn-8:39 THEY ANSWERED AND SAID…ABRAHAM IS OUR FATHER. The verses continue—
FOR I (TELL YOU), THAT GOD IS ABLE OF THESE STONES. While the people might have thought John was referring to the stones on the ground, God is able to humble and soften even hearts of stone to have childlike faith in Him. Many Jews had hearts like stones. Jesus referred to stones in Lk 19:40.
This may have also been a reference that Gentiles would also be saved-ref Acts 11:18. The verses continue—
TO RAISE UP CHILDREN (or sons) (TO) ABRAHAM. THESE THINGS WERE DONE IN BETHABARA BEYOND JORDAN-Jn 1:28. It is reported that this is the same area that the twelve stones were taken out of the Jordan when Joshua pitched in Gilgal, in the east of the border of Jericho-ref Jos 4:20.
It has been said that when God raised up the Gentile church that He was raising up stones to become children to Abraham.
Only God is able to bring about the new birth. Being the offspring of Abraham saves no one. Through the new birth (or being born-again), a person becomes a child of Abraham. The Bible is showing it is one thing regarding being the offspring of someone, but it is something different being a submissive, obedient child. It could be said that John is saying, stop making excuses and put away wrong thinking.
The kind of teaching that John the Baptist did would often make people either angry or broken through conviction of the Holy Spirit. This kind of preaching cuts away the excuses, the pretense, the trying to appear to be something that one is not.
This kind of preaching is seldom heard in today’s churches, FOR THE WORD OF GOD IS QUICK, AND POWERFUL, AND SHARPER THAN ANY TWOEDGED SWORD, PIERCING EVEN TO THE DIVIDING ASUNDER OF SOUL AND SPIRIT, AND OF THE JOINTS AND MARROW, AND IS A DISCERNER OF THE THOUGHTS AND INTENTS OF THE HEART-Heb 4:12.
When attending one of those rare, good Bible teaching churches, a person may believe that someone has told the preacher all about them. They get angry or become broken, depending on their heart, as their inner self is revealed. What really happened was the Holy Spirit put in the mind of the preacher what to say and then brought the person under conviction for their wrongdoing.

Mt 3:10 (ref Lk 3:9). AND NOW (ALREADY)
THE AXE IS LAID (TO) THE ROOT. The root is the very foundation. It may be said the root is the feet, the heart, the soul, or even the life. When the root is severed the life is gone. The axe being laid to the root is a message of judgment. The verses continue-
OF THE TREES (ready to strike). Trees (which is plural) here represent people. A person seldom knows when the axe will strike. An axe, which signifies eternal destruction, is at the feet, heart. life, or soul of a person ready to strike, as well as the nation. It can also represent Israel. The verse continue—
THEREFORE EVERY TREE or person—
WHICH (DOES NOT BEAR) (or produce) GOOD FRUIT. Any person that does not repent and does not have a changed attitude reflecting the fruits of the Spirit (good fruit) and the works prompted by God; the verses continue—
IS (CUT) (or chopped) DOWN. The person that does not bear good fruit is chopped down. They are judged guilty (for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.). The verses continue—
AND (THROWN) INTO THE FIRE. The unsaved will be chopped down and cast into the fire. No matter how good and green the tree looks, if it does not bring forth good fruit, it will be thrown into the fire. No matter how good and clean the cup and platter looks on the outside, if it is not clean on the inside, it will be destroyed-ref Mt 23:25,26; Lk 11:39. No matter how good and righteous a person looks on the outside, if the person has not repented and does not bring forth the fruits (or attitude) and works of the Spirit of God, they will perish.
Jesus spoke almost the exact same words about 16 months later. Mt 7:19,20-EVERY TREE THAT BRINGETH NOT FORTH GOOD FRUIT IS HEWN DOWN, AND CAST INTO THE FIRE. WHEREFORE BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM. By the evidence of what a person does and their attitude you shall know if they are of God or not.
The only true good trees are those that admit they are bad, confess, and repent of their sins, and then trust in the finished work of Jesus as their only hope of escaping the axe. Thus His righteousness is imputed to us-ref Ro 4:22-25; Ja 3:23. Only a good, or good and honest heart can admit it is DECEITFUL ABOVE ALL THINGS, AND DESPERATELY WICKED: WHO CAN KNOW IT?-Jere 17:9. Few people can admit this. Few people truly repent. Few people in this generation hear this message from their preacher, priest, or rabbi, and few will read the Bible and admit that God is true. YEA, LET GOD BE TRUE, BUT EVERY MAN A LIAR-Ro 3:4.
John did not speak respectfully to the religious leaders which were so respected by the people. He boldly showed those that came—their sin. He did not seek to comfort the people with smooth, deceitful words. He came to turn their hearts to God through repentance.
Herod, Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel hung Jesus on the cross. Yet it was people’s sin that put Him there and His love for the world that brought Him there.
About 40 to 43 years after this message came forth, Israel was ravaged by the Romans. Perhaps 100,000 Jews died.

TODAY’S PREACHING

What would happen if your preacher taught as John the Baptist, and Jesus taught. It may be that many would run out of the church in disgust. Yet perhaps a few would remain and truly repent. Others might try to get the preacher removed from the church. The kind of revival churches talk about today is usually no true revival at all. Most people have a good opinion of themselves, and the preaching they hear does little to change this false perception.
Many preachers today preach far more about themselves than about Jesus Christ through the pure Word. Did John the Baptist preach about himself, his parents, relatives, or job? Did he preach from other people’s writings or philosophy? Most preachers today have either lost their way, or have never found it-ref Mt 7:13-15; Mt 7:21-23; Rev 3:14-22. PREACH THE WORD-2 Tim 4:2.

HELL AND THE LAKE OF FIRE

It is written Ja 3:6-FIRE OF HELL-Ja 3:6. The rich man said, in Lk 16:24-FATHER ABRAHAM, HAVE MERCY ON ME, AND SEND LAZARUS, THAT HE MAY DIP THE TIP OF HIS FINGER IN WATER, AND COOL MY TONGUE FOR I AM TORMENTED IN THIS FLAME. Jesus said in Mk 9:43-AND IF THY HAND OFFEND THEE, CUT IT OFF: IT IS BETTER FOR THEE TO ENTER INTO LIFE MAIMED, THAN HAVING TWO HANDS TO GO INTO HELL, INTO THE FIRE THAT NEVER SHALL BE QUENCHED.
Hell is a place of consciousness-ref Lk 16:23,24; a place of DARKNESS-Mt 8:12; eternal separation from your loved ones-ref Lk 13:28; not the slightest hope of release-ref Mt 25:46. There is the torment of memory in hell. You may remember every single chance you had to repent, yet you refused-ref Lk 16:27,28.
It is written, WHOSOEVER WAS NOT FOUND WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE WAS CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE-Rev 20:15; HELL FIRE-Mt 18:9; Mk 9:47; DEVOURING FIRE-Isa 33:14; EVERLASTING FIRE-Mt 25:41; a FIRE THAT NEVER SHALL BE QUENCHED-Mk 9:43; THE LAKE OF FIRE AND BRIMSTONE-Rev 20:10; COALS OF FIRE-Pv 25:22; UNQUENCHABLE FIRE-Mt 3:12; FURNACE OF FIRE-Mt 13:42; VENGEANCE OF ETERNAL FIRE-Jude 7; RAGING FIRE THAT WILL CONSUME THE ENEMIES OF GOD-Heb 10:27 NIV; TORMENTED WITH FIRE AND BRIMSTONE-Rev 14:10; ETERNAL JUDGMENT-Heb 6:2; EVERLASTING BURNINGS-Isa 33:14; EVERLASTING CONTEMPT-Dan 12:2; EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT-Mt 25:46; EVERLASTING DESTRUCTION-2 Thes 1:9; TORMENTED DAY AND NIGHT FOR EVER AND EVER-Rev 20:10; THEY ARE BURNED-Jn 15:6; WHERE THEIR WORM DIETH NOT, AND THE FIRE IS NOT QUENCHED-Mk 9:46; THE SMOKE OF THEIR TORMENT ASCENDETH UP FOR EVER AND EVER: AND THEY HAVE NO REST DAY NOR NIGHT-Rev 14:11; SHAME-Dan 12:2; PAINS OF HELL-Ps 116:3; OUTER DARKNESS-Mt 8:12; WEEPING AND GNASHING OF TEETH-Mt 8:12; WAILING AND GNASHING OF TEETH-Mt 13:42; HE LIFT UP HIS EYES, BEING IN TORMENTS-Lk 16:23; AND HE CRIED...I AM TORMENTED IN THIS FLAME-Lk 16:24; HAVE MERCY ON ME-Lk 16:24. This is the eternal destiny of most people.

Lk 3:10.    AND THE (CROWD) ASKED HIM, SAYING,
WHAT SHALL WE DO THEN? Those in the crowd that had a soft heart toward God’s Word wanted to know what they had to do to be saved. They wanted to know what evidence was needed to demonstrate they had repented. In this generation, many might tell a person, just say a sinner’s prayer, and you will be eternally saved. Others might say, just believe on Jesus, and you are eternally saved. This is not what John the Baptist said.

Lk 3:11.    HE (ANSWERED) AND (SAID) (TO) THEM,
HE THAT (HAS) TWO COATS, LET HIM (SHARE WITH) HIM THAT (HAS) NONE;
AND HE THAT (HAS) (FOOD), LET HIM DO (THE SAME). John did not say give both your coats, or give all your food, but rather if you have two, give one to the person that has none. John gave them two things to do. He was showing the results or fruits of having a right attitude. John was telling them to do something that would be difficult for them to do unless they repented and had a good heart. He was showing what the attitude of a person that is truly saved should be like. Undoubtedly there were some in the crowd that when they heard this would say to themselves, “I will never give one of my coats away or I will not share my food with anyone, even if they have a need.” While others would humbly say yes, they would. We might say he was showing them what a Christ like attitude should be. He was also saying the right attitude was—don’t lay up treasures on earth, but rather in heaven. He was saying to give, be generous, and be kind to those that had a need. Good works do not produce salvation, but repentance and faith in Christ will produce these fruits.

Lk 3:12.    THEN CAME ALSO (some) (TAX COLLECTORS)
TO BE BAPTIZED (or immersed). Tax collectors are often detested by the people. Yet they also came to be baptized. The verse continues—
AND SAID (TO) HIM, MASTER (or Teacher, or Rabbi),
WHAT SHALL WE DO? Again, John did not say to them to just say a sinner’s prayer or just believe on Jesus which was to come shortly, and you will be eternally saved.

Lk 3:13.    AND HE SAID (TO) THEM,
(COLLECT) NO MORE THAN THAT WHICH IS APPOINTED YOU (or no more than the government assesses-NIV). John is telling them what may be very difficult for them to do, unless they repented. Tax collectors were and are sometimes very zealous to collect all they can and even more than they should in some instances. Thus, John tells them to do something that would be difficult for a tax collector that did not have a good heart. He was telling them to be honest and do not cheat anyone. He was showing them what a Christ like attitude should be.
The tax collector is to deal justly with both the government as well as with the merchants and people. They are not to abuse their power. They are not to in any way or for any reason charge the people more taxes than are honestly owed. Neither are they to defraud others and take money for themselves.

Lk 3:14.    AND (SOME) SOLDIERS. These probably would have been Roman soldiers. Note, the Gentile wise men responded to the birth of Jesus. Now Gentile soldiers appear to be were responding to John’s message. The verse continues—
LIKEWISE (WERE QUESTIONING) HIM, SAYING,
AND WHAT (about us, what) SHALL WE DO? Soldiers also came to be baptized and wanted to know what they should do. Again, John did not say to them to just say a sinner’s prayer or just believe on Jesus which was to come shortly, and you will be eternally saved. Neither did John tell them they could not be saved because they were Gentiles. The verse continues—
AND HE SAID (TO) THEM,
DO VIOLENCE TO NO MAN (or do not take money from anyone by force-NASB, or don’t intimidate anyone, or don’t extort money),
NEITHER ACCUSE ANY FALSELY;
AND BE CONTENT (or satisfied) WITH YOUR WAGES. Soldiers can sometimes be very violent to people. God forbid, some rape the women, physically hurt and torture others, and kill indiscriminately. Some terrify and oppress innocent people. They may steal money or goods. They may intimidate people and force them to give money. They sometimes will accuse people falsely. They are usually paid a very low wage. Again John tells them to do those things which might be the most difficult for them to do unless they repented. He told them three things to do that would be difficult for a soldier unless they had a good heart. He was showing what the attitude of following Christ should be. In other words, a born-again person should do these things.
John related to them: stop doing violence to men. Do no violence to your relatives, neighbors, or to anyone. Do not use your authority or power in an unjust way. Stop stealing from people by force, stop intimidating people, and stop extorting money, or goods from people.
John further told them not to accuse people falsely, and then lastly—
be content with your wages. This is further covered in Heb 13:3-BE CONTENT WITH SUCH THINGS AS YE HAVE. We might say, do not go on strike. Do not complain about your wages. Learn to live within your means. In reality, those that obey God, God will take care of them and meet their needs as it is also written in the same verse-I WILL NEVER LEAVE THEE, NOT FORSAKE THEE. Verse 4 states-THE LORD IS MY HELPER
.John did not tell the soldiers to lay down their arms. He did not tell them not to go to war. He did not tell them to desert the army.

ATTITUDE

Lk 3:11 to 14 gives a total of 6 or more things to do. These things do not save a person. They are the results of what a person with a Christ like attitude should do. They are fruits of repentance. They are fruits that should portray that a person is no longer following the ways of this world, but the ways of Christ. As the people heard these things, undoubtedly some that did not have a good heart would say to themselves, “I will not do these things”. Others would humble themselves as a little child and obey God’s Word. Many there are that name the name of Christ, but they have never brought forth fruits that bear witness that they have repented and are following Christ.
It is a rare church indeed, in this generation, that would answer the question today in this manner when someone would say, “WHAT SHALL WE DO THEN?”
To summarize some of what John said: give and be generous to those that have a need.
Be honest and do not cheat anyone. Don’t steal or be greedy.
Don’t be violent. Be gentle. Don’t accuse falsely. Be content with your wages and what you have. Don’t strike and complain.
Three groups of people responded and asked what to do. They were (a) the people, (b) the tax collectors, (c) and the soldiers. Missing from these that asked were the religious leaders such as the Pharisees, scribes, lawyers, Sadducees, and a group called the Herodians. etc.
Though the Scriptures clearly reflect that most preachers, elders, and church members will perish, yet they are not yelling out, What must I do to be saved” The blind leaders of the blind are confident they are already saved. Are you among them?
Paul, when he fell on the earth when he was on the road to Damascus, spoke these words, WHAT WILT THOU HAVE ME TO DO-Acts 9:6. The number one recommendation that can be given is this: Humbly and prayerfully—Study the Bible. Humble thyself and quit making excuses.

BORN AGAIN. CONVERTED

In Acts chapter 2:37, the people were pricked in their heart and believed on Jesus. The people asked: WHAT SHALL WE DO? Peter said: REPENT (this came first), AND BE BAPTIZED EVERY ONE OF YOU…Acts 2:38. These verses of Scripture are telling a person what to do to be converted, to be born again for it is written Mt 18:3-Jesus said…EXCEPT YE BE CONVERTED, AND BECOME AS LITTLE CHILDREN, YE SHALL NOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. A person must become childlike, soft, and humbled to correction from God and the Bible. Jn 3:3-Jesus said…EXCEPT A MAN BE BORN AGAIN, HE CANNOT SEE THE KINGDOM OF GOD.BE CONTENT: HARD WORK TO SURVIVEIt is written, IN THE SWEAT OF THY FACE (or by the sweat of your brow) SHALT THOU EAT BREAD (or you will eat your food)-Gen 3:19. Before the curse, Adam had the job of working and taking care of the Garden of Eden. This may have been a sweet and rewarding work as the ground brought forth its increase; however, after the curse, the work of Adam was to be much more difficult. As it is written, IN THE SWEAT OF THY FACE SHALT THOU EAT. The Lord God is pronouncing a judgment of, in sweat and hard work, weariness and much labor, you will eat your food. Lamech shows how difficult it was with the curse on the ground, in Gen 5:28,29-LAMECH...BEGAT A SON: AND HE CALLED HIS NAME NOAH, SAYING, THIS SAME SHALL COMFORT US CONCERNING OUR WORK AND TOIL OF OUR HANDS, BECAUSE OF THE GROUND WHICH THE LORD HATH CURSED. Indeed, a difficult life was ahead. It seems men are often complaining about their work and trying to get around this curse, by working less yet making more. It is written, THE EYES OF MEN ARE NEVER SATISFIED-Pv 27:20. Yet we are to BE CONTENT WITH our WAGES-Lk 3:14.

BE CONTENT: HARD WORK TO SURVIVE

It is written, IN THE SWEAT OF THY FACE (or by the sweat of your brow) SHALT THOU EAT BREAD (or you will eat your food)-Gen 3:19. Before the curse, Adam had the job of working and taking care of the Garden of Eden. This may have been a sweet and rewarding work as the ground brought forth its increase; however, after the curse, the work of Adam was to be much more difficult. As it is written, IN THE SWEAT OF THY FACE SHALT THOU EAT. The Lord God is pronouncing a judgment of, in sweat and hard work, weariness and much labor, you will eat your food. Lamech shows how difficult it was with the curse on the ground, in Gen 5:28,29-LAMECH...BEGAT A SON: AND HE CALLED HIS NAME NOAH, SAYING, THIS SAME SHALL COMFORT US CONCERNING OUR WORK AND TOIL OF OUR HANDS, BECAUSE OF THE GROUND WHICH THE LORD HATH CURSED. Indeed, a difficult life was ahead. It seems men are often complaining about their work and trying to get around this curse, by working less yet making more. It is written, THE EYES OF MEN ARE NEVER SATISFIED-Pv 27:20. Yet we are to BE CONTENT WITH our WAGES-Lk 3:14.

Lk 3:15. AND AS THE PEOPLE
WERE IN (a state of) (great) EXPECTATION (or were waiting expectantly). Because of the time frame of the prophecies in Daniel 9:24-26, the people were expecting the coming of the Messiah, the Christ, the one that would deliver them from the rule of the Romans. There are many other Old Testament Scriptures relating to the coming of Messiah. Some include Mic 5:2; Isa 9:6,7; Isa 11:1-9; Mic 4:2,3. Some of these verses can cover both the first and second coming of Christ, while some cover only His return. It was not understood at that time that Christ would come, be crucified, rise from the dead, ascend into heaven, sit at the right hand of God the Father, but then would return sometime after the rebirth of Israel. Following are the Scriptures just mentioned.

JESUS. FORECASTS OF JESUS

Dan 9:24-26-(gives the time that Jesus would come the first time). SEVENTY WEEKS ARE DETERMINED UPON THY PEOPLE AND UPON THY HOLY CITY, TO FINISH THE TRANSGRESSION, AND TO MAKE AN END OF SINS, AND TO MAKE RECONCILIATION FOR INIQUITY, AND TO BRING IN EVERLASTING RIGHTEOUSNESS, AND TO SEAL UP THE VISION AND PROPHECY, AND TO ANOINT THE MOST HOLY. KNOW THEREFORE AND UNDERSTAND, THAT FROM THE GOING FORTH OF THE COMMANDMENT TO RESTORE AND TO BUILD JERUSALEM UNTO THE MESSIAH THE PRINCE SHALL BE SEVEN WEEKS, AND THREESCORE AND TWO WEEKS: THE STREET SHALL BE BUILT AGAIN, AND THE WALL, EVEN IN TROUBLOUS TIMES. AND AFTER THREESCORE AND TWO WEEKS SHALL MESSIAH BE CUT OFF, BUT NOT FOR HIMSELF: AND THE PEOPLE OF THE PRINCE THAT SHALL COME SHALL DESTROY THE CITY AND THE SANCTUARY (this happened about 70 A.D.); AND THE END THEREOF SHALL BE WITH A FLOOD, AND UNTO THE END OF THE WAR DESOLATIONS ARE DETERMINED.
Mic 5:2 (This is the first coming of Jesus). BUT THOU, BETHLEHEM EPHRATAH, THOUGH THOU BE LITTLE AMONG THE THOUSANDS OF JUDAH, YET OUT OF THEE SHALL HE COME FORTH UNTO ME (This is the second coming of Jesus). THAT IS TO BE RULER IN ISRAEL; WHOSE GOINGS FORTH HAVE BEEN FROM OF OLD, FROM EVERLASTING.
Isa 9:6,7-(This is the first coming of Jesus). FOR UNTO US A CHILD IS BORN, UNTO US A SON IS GIVEN: (This is the second coming of Jesus). AND THE GOVERNMENT SHALL BE UPON HIS SHOULDER: AND HIS NAME SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL, COUNSELLOR, THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, THE PRINCE OF PEACE. OF THE INCREASE OF HIS GOVERNMENT AND PEACE THERE SHALL BE NO END, UPON THE THRONE OF DAVID, AND UPON HIS KINGDOM, TO ORDER IT, AND TO ESTABLISH IT WITH JUDGMENT AND WITH JUSTICE FROM HENCEFORTH EVEN FOR EVER. THE ZEAL OF THE LORD OF HOSTS WILL PERFORM THIS.
Isa 11:1-9-(This is the first coming of the Lord). AND THERE SHALL COME FORTH A ROD OUT OF THE STEM OF JESSE, AND A BRANCH SHALL GROW OUT OF HIS ROOTS: AND THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD SHALL REST UPON HIM, THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING, THE SPIRIT OF COUNSEL AND MIGHT, THE SPIRIT OF KNOWLEDGE AND OF THE FEAR OF THE LORD; AND SHALL MAKE HIM OF QUICK UNDERSTANDING IN THE FEAR OF THE LORD: (This is the second coming of the Lord). AND HE SHALL NOT JUDGE AFTER THE SIGHT OF HIS EYES, NEITHER REPROVE AFTER THE HEARING OF HIS EARS: BUT WITH RIGHTEOUSNESS SHALL HE JUDGE THE POOR, AND REPROVE WITH EQUITY FOR THE MEEK OF THE EARTH: AND HE SHALL SMITE THE EARTH WITH THE ROD OF HIS MOUTH, AND WITH THE BREATH OF HIS LIPS SHALL HE SLAY THE WICKED. AND RIGHTEOUSNESS SHALL BE THE GIRDLE OF HIS LOINS, AND FAITHFULNESS THE GIRDLE OF HIS REINS. THE WOLF ALSO SHALL DWELL WITH THE LAMB, AND THE LEOPARD SHALL LIE DOWN WITH THE KID; AND THE CALF AND THE YOUNG LION AND THE FATLING TOGETHER; AND A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM. AND THE COW AND THE BEAR SHALL FEED; THEIR YOUNG ONES SHALL LIE DOWN TOGETHER: AND THE LION SHALL EAT STRAW LIKE THE OX. AND THE SUCKING CHILD SHALL PLAY ON THE HOLE OF THE ASP, AND THE WEANED CHILD SHALL PUT HIS HAND ON THE COCKATRICE' DEN. THEY SHALL NOT HURT NOR DESTROY IN ALL MY HOLY MOUNTAIN: FOR THE EARTH SHALL BE FULL OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE LORD, AS THE WATERS COVER THE SEA.
Mic 4:2,3-(This is the second coming of Jesus). AND MANY NATIONS SHALL COME, AND SAY, COME, AND LET US GO UP TO THE MOUNTAIN OF THE LORD, AND TO THE HOUSE OF THE GOD OF JACOB; AND HE WILL TEACH US OF HIS WAYS, AND WE WILL WALK IN HIS PATHS: FOR THE LAW SHALL GO FORTH OF ZION, AND THE WORD OF THE LORD FROM JERUSALEM. AND HE SHALL JUDGE AMONG MANY PEOPLE, AND REBUKE STRONG NATIONS AFAR OFF; AND THEY SHALL BEAT THEIR SWORDS INTO PLOWSHARES, AND THEIR SPEARS INTO PRUNINGHOOKS: NATION SHALL NOT LIFT UP A SWORD AGAINST NATION, NEITHER SHALL THEY LEARN WAR ANY MORE.

The verse continues—
AND ALL MEN (WERE WONDERING)
IN THEIR HEARTS (ABOUT) JOHN,
(as to) WHETHER HE WERE (possibly) THE CHRIST, OR NOT. There are almost no Scriptures covering the period of approximately 397 B.C. to 6 B.C. If there were any prophets during this time, it is not known.. Anna-ref Lk 2:36, is mentioned shortly after the birth of Jesus. Then John the Baptist appears and the people were wondering if he could be the Christ.
Should they have understood the Scriptures they would have known John was not the Christ. The Christ had to be born of a virgin in Bethlehem. He had to be from the lineage of David and be of the tribe of Judah. Someone had to come before the Messiah (the Christ) to prepare the people.

Lk 3:16 (pt 1).   JOHN ANSWERED,

Mk 1:7 (pt 1).    AND PREACHED. Note that John preached. The verse continues—

Mk 1:7 (pt 2), ref Lk 3:16 (pt 2). SAYING,

   Lk 3:16 (pt 3).      (TO) THEM ALL,

Mk 1:8 (pt 1), ref Mt 3:11 (pt 1), Lk 3:16 (pt 4). I INDEED HAVE BAPTIZED (or immersed) YOU WITH WATER. Three baptisms are mentioned in Mt 3:11.
1-Water baptism unto repentance
2-Being baptized with the Holy Ghost
3-Being baptized with fire
Those that gladly received John’s Words did repent, did confess their sins, and did get baptized by full immersion.
The verse continues—

Mt 3:11 (pt 2).    (FOR) REPENTANCE (or so that you might turn from sin to God-JNT). John did not hesitate to preach repentance. However, many so called preachers in these latter days never mention this word. Note that both baptism and repentance are connected in this verse. Acts 2:38 also connects the two as it is written in-REPENT AND BE BAPTIZED EVERYONE. In being baptized with the baptism of John (or baptism as a result of repentance), the people were confessing that they deserved death because of sin.
Indeed, all are under the sentence of death for sin. All have come short of the glory of God-ref Ro 3:23. Yet if a person will place their unwavering faith and trust in Christ as it is written, they will pass from the second death to life eternal.. For more on “repentance” see Mt 3:6; 3:8; Lk 3:3 (pt 2); Lk 3:18; Jn 3:18.
The verse continues—

Mt 3:11 (pt 3), ref Lk 3:16 (pt 5).    BUT

Mt 3:11 (pt 4), ref Mk 1:7 (pt 3), Lk 3:16 (pt 6). (THE ONE) THAT (IS COMING) AFTER ME, John is talking about the coming of Christ. These words mirrored the words of Mal 3:1 and the two last verses of the Old Testament-Mal 4:5,6. The verses continue—
IS MIGHTIER (or more powerful) THAN I. Again, the one that is MIGHTIER than John is the long awaited Messiah, the Christ. These words reflect that the coming of the Messiah would be soon. They reflect John’s purpose. He was to prepare the way of the Lord

Mt 3:11 (pt 5).   WHOSE SHOES (or sandals) I AM NOT WORTHY (or fit) TO BEAR (or carry). John only spoke of himself in the context that he was nothing compared to Christ. The attitude of John the Baptist was that of humility and unworthiness in comparison with the Christ. It was an attitude of the lowest of slaves or servants. This is a much different attitude than what is taught in many churches today.

SELF
ATTITUDE

In many churches today “self” is exalted contrary to God’s Word. It is written Mt 23:12-AND WHOSOEVER SHALL EXALT HIMSELF SHALL BE ABASED; AND HE THAT SHALL HUMBLE HIMSELF SHALL BE EXALTED. Lk 18:10-14-TWO MEN WENT UP INTO THE TEMPLE TO PRAY; THE ONE A PHARISEE, AND THE OTHER A PUBLICAN. THE PHARISEE STOOD AND PRAYED THUS WITH HIMSELF, GOD, I THANK THEE, THAT I AM NOT AS OTHER MEN ARE, EXTORTIONERS, UNJUST, ADULTERERS, OR EVEN AS THIS PUBLICAN. I FAST TWICE IN THE WEEK, I GIVE TITHES OF ALL THAT I POSSESS. AND THE PUBLICAN, STANDING AFAR OFF, WOULD NOT LIFT UP SO MUCH AS HIS EYES UNTO HEAVEN, BUT SMOTE UPON HIS BREAST, SAYING, GOD BE MERCIFUL TO ME A SINNER. I TELL YOU, THIS MAN WENT DOWN TO HIS HOUSE JUSTIFIED RATHER THAN THE OTHER. Those that would be raised up high, must begin low.

PREACH THE WORD

Pure God centered preaching is to preach His Word and good sound doctrine. If explanations are needed then use more of God’s Word. This is the good milk which is loved by the few that are called and chosen by God. This preaching pleases God, but does not please most people.
Man’s preaching takes a smidgen of God’s Word and mixes it with lots of worldly stories: of things, of people, of the preacher, of his family, and his personal adventures. Some even mix in a few good jokes and lots of foolishness. Good sound doctrine is often avoided. This watered down, lukewarm preaching is pleasing to most people that want to live in sin. It is not pleasing to the few that are called and chosen by God.
The verse continues—

Mk 1:7 (pt 4), ref Lk 3:16 (pt 7). THE

Lk 3:16 (pt 8). (SANDAL)

Mk 1:7 (pt 5), ref Lk 3:16 (pt 9). (STRAP) OF WHOSE (SANDALS) I AM NOT WORTHY TO

Mk 1:7 (pt 6). (even) STOOP DOWN AND

Mk 1:7 (pt 7) ref Lk 3:16 (pt 10). (UNTIE). Again, John the Baptist was very humble. For a slave to bear or untie the strap of his master’s shoes was the smallest of tasks, yet John was saying he was not even worthy to do this for the one that was coming—the Christ. This is the attitude all born again Christians should have. Jesus said regarding John the Baptist in Mt 11:11-AMONG THEM THAT ARE BORN OF WOMEN THERE HATH NOT RISEN A GREATER THAN JOHN THE BAPTIST. Yet John himself indicated that he was not worthy to carry the sandals of or to even untie the sandal strap of the Christ. There seems to be little fear of God or even reverencing God in today’s churches or among “so called” born again Christians. It is written Ja 4:6-GOD RESISTETH THE PROUD, BUT GIVETH GRACE UNTO THE HUMBLE. A little child is humble before his father. The childlike, meek, and humble person will usually respond to Christ. The rich and famous, those filled with self and pride, and those seeking the praise of men usually will not. As should be noted further on, the tares or chaff (those that exalt themselves) shall be burnt up and perish. The wheat (those that humble themselves) shall be gathered into His barn-ref Mt 13:30.

HUMILITY

See the previous verses relating to John the Baptist as an example of the way a born again Christian ought to be. Note that it is written about Jesus in Phili 2:7,8-BUT MADE HIMSELF OF NO REPUTATION, AND TOOK UPON HIM THE FORM OF A SERVANT, AND WAS MADE IN THE LIKENESS OF MEN: AND BEING FOUND IN FASHION AS A MAN, HE HUMBLED HIMSELF, AND BECAME OBEDIENT UNTO DEATH, EVEN THE DEATH OF THE CROSS.
As this Bible study continues there are many examples of the Christ like (born-again) attitude true Christians should have, but few people that name the name of Christ do. The verse continues—

Mk 1:8 (pt 2). BUT

Mt 3:11 (pt 6), Mk 1:8 (pt 3), ref Lk 3:16 (pt 11). HE (this is talking about the Christ that was soon to appear), HE—
SHALL BAPTIZE (or immerse) YOU. The word baptize when used in connection with water meant to submerge as being buried in. The verses continue—
WITH THE HOLY GHOST. The word baptize being used in connection with the Holy Ghost has had three interpretations.
1-This prophecy was fulfilled in Jn 20:22 as it is written: HE BREATHED ON THEM, AND SAITH…RECEIVE YE THE HOLY GHOST. He also opened their minds to understand the Scriptures-ref Lk 24:45. This prophecy was fulfilled the day of His resurrection. Once the Holy Ghost was given, from then on all that belong to Christ receive the indwelling of the Holy Ghost as it is written, Ro 8:9-NOW IF ANY MAN HAVE NOT THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST, HE IS NONE OF HIS, ref 1 Cor 12:13. Isaiah had prophesied in 44:3-I WILL POUR MY SPIRIT UPON THY SEED. Ezek 36:26,27 sometimes used in connection with this verse covers the millennium.
2-Some relate this statement as Jesus transforming the soul. Titus 3:5 states—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.
3-These words, BAPTIZED WITH THE HOLY GHOST, are repeated in Acts 1:5 as it is written-FOR JOHN TRULY BAPTIZED WITH WATER; BUT YE SHALL BE BAPTIZED WITH THE HOLY GHOST NOT MANY DAYS HENCE. Acts 1:8-BUT YE SHALL RECEIVE POWER, AFTER THAT THE HOLY GHOST IS COME UPON YOU: AND YE SHALL BE WITNESSES UNTO ME BOTH IN JERUSALEM, AND IN ALL JUDAEA, AND IN SAMARIA, AND UNTO THE UTTERMOST PART OF THE EARTH-ref Acts 2:2-4. Acts 11:15-16-AND AS I BEGAN TO SPEAK, THE HOLY GHOST FELL ON THEM, AS ON US AT THE BEGINNING. THEN REMEMBERED I THE WORD OF THE LORD, HOW THAT HE SAID, JOHN INDEED BAPTIZED WITH WATER; BUT YE SHALL BE BAPTIZED WITH THE HOLY GHOST. It was prophesied by Joel in 2:28-29-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.

Mt 3:11 (pt 7), ref Lk 3:16 (pt 12). AND (IN) FIRE. Mark’s Gospel did not mention these words. There are at least 3 interpretations of the words “AND IN FIRE” or AND WITH FIRE, or as some might say “or” fire.
1-This prophecy was fulfilled in Acts 2:2-4, as it is written: AND SUDDENLY THERE CAME A SOUND FROM HEAVEN AS OF A RUSHING MIGHTY WIND,…AND THERE APPEARED UNTO THEM CLOVEN TONGUES LIKE AS OF FIRE, AND IT SAT UPON EACH OF THEM. AND THEY WERE ALL FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST, AND BEGAN TO SPEAK WITH OTHER TONGUES, AS THE SPIRIT GAVE THEM UTTERANCE. This prophecy was fulfilled on Pentecost-ref Acts 2:1, ref verses: Acts 1:5; 8:16,17.
2-There are many others that equate this portion of Scripture with a baptism of judgment or baptism of fire on the unrepentant when Jesus returns. The next Scripture refers to such a judgment and also some of the Scriptures John quoted did refer to the second coming. Note the next verse (Mt 3:12) is relating to the judgment. The second death is this: AND DEATH AND HELL WERE CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE. THIS IS THE SECOND DEATH. AND WHOSOEVER WAS NOT FOUND WRITTEN IN THE BOOK OF LIFE WAS CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE-Rev 20:14,15. This takes place at the Great White Throne Judgment.
3-There are some that believe this referred to the separation, cleansing and judging of those that were to enter into the kingdom such as covered in Mt 25:31-46, Mal 4:1, or Mal 3:2,3.
To be born of the Spirit means that the Spirit indwells the believer. It is written-Ro 8:9-Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his, ref Eph 2:22.
To be baptized in the Spirit is that which is evidenced by one or more of the Spiritual gifts.

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