There is no question that mankind did not deserve God's grace. But it was due to His grace that God provided His Son, Jesus, as a perfect sacrifice for payment of the penalty of sinful man. Jesus' death, burial and resurrection secured the way for man to be brought back into right standing with His maker.
Although Jesus' sacrifice provided forgiveness for all, not all are destined for eternal life in the presence of God. The word provides specific instructions that require obedience in order for sinful man to partake of God's gift.
Notice in Hebrews below, Paul said that salvation was first spoken of by the Lord and was confirmed, to him (Paul) and others, by them that heard Jesus; the “them” that heard Jesus, were His disciples:
“How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?” Heb 2:3-4
Salvation spoken of by Jesus:
Confirmation of salvation as spoken of by Jesus:
Many fail to realize that the Apostle Paul followed the plan of salvation as spoken of by Jesus and confirmed by His disciples beginning in Jerusalem. (Acts 9:17; 22:16, 1 Cor. 14:18)
Eternity is a long, long time. Everyone must seek out and adhere to the word of God regardless of what worldwide denominations teach. Jesus clearly says: “…the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. John 12:48
Although Jesus' sacrifice provided forgiveness for all, not all are destined for eternal life in the presence of God. The word provides specific instructions that require obedience in order for sinful man to partake of God's gift.
Notice in Hebrews below, Paul said that salvation was first spoken of by the Lord and was confirmed, to him (Paul) and others, by them that heard Jesus; the “them” that heard Jesus, were His disciples:
“How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?” Heb 2:3-4
Salvation spoken of by Jesus:
- Jesus said the salvation message would begin in Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47)
- Jesus gives Peter the key(s) to the kingdom. (Matt 16:18-19)
- Jesus says that he who believes and is baptized shall be saved. (Mark 16:16, John 7:38)
- Jesus says repentance and remission of sins would be preached in His name BEGINNING in Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47)
- Jesus Himself declared that he who believes on Jesus, as the scripture says, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water; referring to the Holy Ghost. (John 7:38-39)
Confirmation of salvation as spoken of by Jesus:
- After Jesus ascension, the disciples traveled to Jerusalem. (Acts 1:12) If you recall, Jesus said that repentance and remission of sin would be preached first in Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47)
- While gathered in the upper room waiting for the promise spoken of by Jesus, (Luke 24:49) the Holy Ghost fills everyone in the room and they speak in tongues. (Acts 2:2-4)
- Unbelievers doubt and mock what they clearly see and hear. (Acts 2:12-13)
- Peter (the one who was given the keys) immediately stands and addresses the unbelievers. (Acts 2:14) He preaches to those present. (Acts 2:15-36) The unbelievers are upset when they realize the truth; Jesus is the promised Messiah. And they ask what is required of them; WHAT MUST WE DO? (Acts 2:37)
- Repent (Luke 24:47)
- Be water baptized (Mark 16:16) In the name of Jesus for the remission of sin (Luke 24:47)
- Receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (John 7:38)
Many fail to realize that the Apostle Paul followed the plan of salvation as spoken of by Jesus and confirmed by His disciples beginning in Jerusalem. (Acts 9:17; 22:16, 1 Cor. 14:18)
Eternity is a long, long time. Everyone must seek out and adhere to the word of God regardless of what worldwide denominations teach. Jesus clearly says: “…the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day. John 12:48