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Page 1: Authentic Pentecostalism:
The Birth of New Covenant Israel:
Ratified in Christ’s Resurrection and Ascension:
Understanding New Covenant Israel: Exploring Hebrews 8
The Pentecostal Foundation of New Covenant Israel:
Page 2: Saved From What?
Understanding the Judgment of Believers’ Works: A Biblical Perspective
Page 3: What Is Repentance?
The New Covenant Transaction
Page 4: The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
Distinction between Initial Salvation and Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Page 5: The Gift of Tongue
Page 6: Challenging Cessationism:
The Unbiblical Foundation of Cessationism
Cessationism and Unbiblical Pentecostalism: Two Extremes, One Distorted Gospel
Page 7: Orderly Worship in an Authentic Pentecostal Church
Answering the Call: Continuing the Great Commission with Signs Following
Page 8: Embracing the New Covenant Sabbath Rest: Celebrating Christ’s Resurrection
Page 9: The False Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy KJV

Footnote: Navigating Diverse Perspectives on Christian Doctrines

Within the realm of Christian theology, there exists a wide array of interpretations and perspectives on various doctrines, some of which may seem contradictory or contentious. Examples include differing views on the timing of the rapture and the beginning of the tribulation, as well as debates surrounding eternal security versus the possibility of a believer losing their salvation. These divergent viewpoints have been subjects of dispute and discussion for centuries among theologians and believers.

It is crucial to recognise that while these doctrinal differences may be significant in shaping individual beliefs and interpretations, they are not essential to the core message of salvation. The foundational tenets of the Christian faith, such as belief in the atoning sacrifice of Christ and the need for repentance and faith in Him, remain constant irrespective of one’s stance on secondary theological matters.

The multiplicity of views on doctrines like the timing of the rapture and eternal security reflects the complexity of interpreting Scripture and the limitations of human understanding. What we believe about these issues is, in essence, our own interpretation or opinion based on our study of Scripture and theological reflection.

However, as time progresses and prophetic events unfold, it is possible that the truth regarding certain doctrines will become clearer. By diligently studying Scripture and engaging with diverse perspectives, believers can develop a deeper understanding of God’s Word and discern the truth amidst differing interpretations.

Therefore, rather than engaging in divisive debates or conflicts over these doctrinal issues, our focus should be on seeking understanding and unity within the body of Christ. By approaching these discussions with humility, openness, and a commitment to truth, we can navigate the complexities of Christian doctrine with grace and discernment.

Ultimately, our goal should be to align ourselves with the revealed truth of God’s Word and to remain receptive to adjusting our views as we grow in knowledge and understanding. As prophetic prophecies unfold in living history, may we be discerning and open-hearted, recognising and embracing the truth as it is unveiled, particularly concerning doctrines such as the timing of the rapture and the beginning of the tribulation.

Authentic Pentecostalism: Unveiling the True Gospel of Grace Amidst Contemporary Challenges

The Birth of New Covenant Israel: Ratified in Christ’s Resurrection and Ascension

In understanding the birth of New Covenant Israel and the Pentecostal essence of the Church, we delve into the foundational truths revealed in Hebrews 8 and other Scriptures. This article aims to elucidate the significance of Christ’s resurrection and ascension in establishing the New Covenant and the role of the Holy Spirit in the birth and empowerment of the Church.

Ratification of the New Covenant:

Hebrews 8 illuminates the inauguration of the New Covenant, prophesied by Jeremiah, which was ratified by the blood of Jesus Christ. The writer emphasizes the superiority of this covenant over the Old Covenant which is now obsolete (no longer in use), highlighting its eternal promises and the forgiveness of sins. This New Covenant was not sealed with the blood of bulls and goats but with the precious blood of Jesus, the Lamb of God (Hebrews 10:12). As Jesus ascended into heaven, He entered the true Holy of Holies, not made with human hands, where He sprinkled His blood on the mercy seat—the True Ark of the Covenant (Hebrews 12:24). This act signified the completion of the atoning sacrifice for all sins and marked the birth of the Church under the New Covenant.

The Empowerment of the Church:

Following His resurrection, Jesus instructed His disciples not to depart from Jerusalem but to wait for the promise of the Father—the baptism with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5). This baptism was not for salvation, but for the equipping of believers with power from on high (Luke 24:49). Thus, the Church was birthed after the Resurrection of Christ when the first believers were born again after Jesus sprinkled his blood in the Holy of Holies, and then they were empowered by the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, as depicted in Acts 2. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit empowered believers to witness to their towns, cities, countries, and the world, fulfilling Jesus’ commission to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8).

The Three Distinct Ministries of the Holy Spirit:

In comprehending the Pentecostal essence of New Covenant Israel, it is vital to understand the threefold ministry of the Holy Spirit:

The ‘With’ Ministry: The Holy Spirit leads sinners to salvation in Christ, drawing them to encounter Jesus and receive forgiveness of sins.
The ‘In’ Ministry: Upon realising their need for salvation, believers are born again through faith in Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit dwells within them, making them new creations in Christ.
The ‘Upon’ Ministry: After receiving the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, believers are empowered for dynamic witness and ministry to proclaim the Gospel boldly. This empowerment is received through the baptism with the Holy Spirit, symbolising the believer’s immersion in the power of the Spirit for effective ministry.

The Significance of Water Baptism:

Water baptism, commanded by Jesus in Matthew 28:19, signifies the believer’s identification with the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In Acts 8, believers are baptised in the name of Jesus, highlighting the centrality of Christ in baptism. This practice underscores the authority and sufficiency of the name of Jesus in salvation and baptism.

The Filling of the Holy Spirit:

While believers receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit once, they can experience multiple fillings or empowerments by the Holy Spirit throughout their Christian journey. These fillings enable believers to walk in the Spirit, yielding to His guidance and power for effective ministry (Ephesians 5:18-21).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the birth of New Covenant Israel and the Pentecostal essence of the Church were inaugurated by Christ’s resurrection and ascension and empowered by the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. Through the distinct ministries of the Holy Spirit, believers are led to salvation, transformed into new creations, and empowered for dynamic witness and ministry. As we embrace the Pentecostal heritage of the Church, may we walk in the fullness of the Spirit, boldly proclaiming the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

Understanding New Covenant Israel: Exploring Hebrews 8

The book of Hebrews, chapter 8, offers profound insights into the concept of New Covenant Israel and the transformative nature of the covenant established by Jesus Christ. Let us delve into Hebrews 8 to gain a deeper understanding of New Covenant Israel and why the Old Covenant has become obsolete.

God’s Promise of a New Covenant

In Hebrews 8:8, the writer quotes from the prophet Jeremiah, who prophesied about the coming of a new covenant: “But God found fault with the people and said: ‘Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah.'”

Here, it is evident that God’s promise of a new covenant was specifically directed towards the house of Israel and the house of Judah. However, when Judah rejected Christ as Messiah, the new covenant was made with the believing House of Israel. (The 11 Apostles). This covenant was not intended for a Gentile church but was made with the nation of Israel.

The Characteristics of the New Covenant

Hebrews 8 further elucidates the characteristics of the new covenant in verses 10-12: “‘For this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord. I will put My laws in their minds, and inscribe them on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they will be My people. No longer will each one teach his neighbour or his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will forgive their iniquities, and remember their sins no more.'”

These verses highlight the personal and transformative nature of the new covenant. God promises to internalise His laws in the hearts and minds of His people, resulting in an intimate knowledge of Him. Furthermore, He assures forgiveness of sins and a personal relationship with His people under the new covenant.

The Obsolescence of the Old Covenant

The writer of Hebrews concludes in verse 13: “By speaking of a new covenant, He has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and ageing will soon disappear.” (Obsolete means, ‘no longer in use’)

Here, Hebrews emphasizes that the establishment of the new covenant renders the old covenant obsolete. The old covenant, with its external regulations and limitations, is replaced by the superior and transformative new covenant inaugurated by Jesus Christ.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hebrews 8 reveals the profound truth of New Covenant Israel and the transformative power of the covenant established by Jesus Christ. This covenant was made specifically with the house of Israel, fulfilling God’s promise of a new covenant. Through the new covenant, God offers forgiveness of sins, intimate knowledge of Him, and a personal relationship with His people. The obsolescence of the old covenant underscores the surpassing superiority of the new covenant, which brings about true transformation and redemption for God’s chosen people.

The Pentecostal Foundation of New Covenant Israel: Empowered by the Holy Spirit

Pentecostalism, the vibrant beginning of Christianity

Pentecostalism, a vibrant movement within Christianity, finds its roots in the transformative events of Acts, the commission in Luke 10, and the promise in Mark 16:18-20. Embracing the Gospel of grace, authentic Pentecostal churches place paramount importance on salvation through faith in Christ alone. However, amidst the contemporary landscape, there are certain Pentecostal churches deviating from this biblical foundation. However, we need to keep in mind that the early Church was clearly Pentecostal. This article explores what an authentic biblical Pentecostal Church should look like, emphasising salvation by grace alone, through faith in Christ alone, in contrast to the many deviations present in certain postmodern-influenced Pentecostal circles.

I. The Essence of Salvation in Authentic Pentecostalism

Biblical Foundation (Acts): The book of Acts paints a vivid picture of the early Church, where the Gospel of grace is central. Salvation is offered freely to all who believe in Jesus Christ, with repentance and faith as the gateway to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit.
Grace Alone, Faith Alone (Ephesians 2:8-9): Authentic Pentecostalism aligns with the broader Christian understanding that salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 reinforces this foundational truth.
Global Proclamation (Luke 10): The commission in Luke 10 underscores the urgency of proclaiming the Gospel globally, emphasising the accessibility of salvation through faith in Christ to people of all nations.

II. Signs Following the Authentic Gospel

Biblical Foundation (Mark 16:18-20): The signs following believers, as outlined in Mark 16:18-20, are not a separate gospel but manifestations of the transformative power of the authentic Gospel of grace.
The Authentic Gospel in Action: True Pentecostalism recognises that signs and wonders are not the focal point but rather accompany the preaching of the Gospel. Miracles, healing’s, and spiritual manifestations are an outpouring of God’s grace, not a substitute for the core message.

III. The Challenge of Postmodern Influences

Emergence of Postmodern Trends: Some Pentecostal churches have sur-come to deceiving spirits and have been incorporating postmodern influences, leading to a departure from the purity of the Gospel.
Deception by New Age Movements: The infiltration of New Age spiritual practices, specifically the manifestation of a Kundalini spirit, speaking to dead people, and what they call grave soaking to attain the anointing of a dead preacher, so called fire pits, and crystal energies etc. in certain false Pentecostal circles. This raises questions about the authenticity of the Holy Spirit’s work in these contexts.

IV. Salvation in Jeopardy

Potential Impact on the Gospel: The adoption of New Age influences distort the Gospel message, leading to confusion regarding the means of salvation, which leads to preaching a false Gospel and making false converts (Tares among the Wheat).
Urgency for Discernment: The deceptive nature of false spirits requires believers to exercise discernment in recognising authentic Pentecostalism from potential distortions that compromise the biblical understanding of salvation.

Conclusion

An authentic biblical Pentecostal Church, rooted in Acts, Mark 16:18-20, and Luke 10, stands firm in the Gospel of grace alone, by faith alone in Christ alone. While postmodern influences and the alleged infiltration of New Age spiritual practices pose challenges, believers must remain steadfast in discerning the authentic Gospel. The urgency of global proclamation should be accompanied by an unwavering commitment to the foundational truth that salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ alone. In doing so, the Church can navigate contemporary challenges, ensuring the purity of the Gospel message remains unaltered in the midst of potential distortions.