Finding True Peace: Lessons from Scripture and Research

 

In a world filled with constant noise and personal trials, peace can feel like a fleeting shadow. Yet, for those who know God, personal peace is a beautiful fruit of the Holy Spirit that He desires for each of us to possess (Galatians 5:22).

 

But how do we practically experience it?

 

What the Research Shows: Faith and Well-Being

We decided to explore this question through a study conducted at Grace Community Church in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. We asked the adult congregation to complete a questionnaire regarding their personal well-being—including peace—and how closely they practiced their faith. Full study here: Religious adherence and quality of life measures.

Using Scripture as our guide, we considered individuals to be active in their faith if they: (1) Proclaimed faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice as a free gift of salvation; (2) Were secure in their salvation, knowing their eternity is held by God; (3) Frequently utilized the 5 Tools to Maturity: prayer, praise, faith, reaching out, and scripture study (Acts 2:42,47; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:23-26; 1 Peter 1:4-5; John 10:27-30).

The Result: On a scale of 0 to 6 (with 6 being the most peaceful), the congregation averaged an encouraging 4.2. More importantly, the data revealed a clear trend: Believers experienced significantly greater peace the more active they were in their Christian practice.

4 Reasons Why Active Faith Protects the Mind

While data shows us what happens, Scripture explains why. When we actively live out our faith, the Holy Spirit transforms our mindset through four distinct avenues:

• Proper Focus: Practicing our faith centers our minds on an Almighty God whose purposes are higher than our own, pulling us away from anxious or selfish thoughts.
• Prayer: Research consistently links prayer to better well-being^1-5. The adherence to the practice of Christianity provides for prayer to an accepting great high priest, Jesus Christ, who cares for our every need (Hebrews 4:14-16).
• Correct Thinking: The Bible provides the ultimate text of truth. By filling our minds with Scripture, we learn to view ourselves correctly and reject lies about God.
• Outward Vision: Scripture urges us to reach out and serve others. Shifting our attention to the needs of our community naturally minimizes our focus on our own anxieties (Community service and personal wellbeing).

How to Claim Your Peace Today

If your heart is restless, I encourage you to take two foundational steps today:

1. Secure Your Assurance: Be certain that your sins are freely forgiven through faith in Christ. Rest in the reality that God accepts you and your salvation cannot be lost. Read more about the gospel message here.
2. Practice the 5 Tools: Intentionally balance your life around prayer, praise, faith, outreach, and Scripture study. This builds the daily environment the Holy Spirit uses to cultivate supernatural peace. It takes time and daily commitment, but the blessings are beyond measure (Galatians 5:22-23). Learn how to implement these tools in your life here.

Thank you for joining me today, and may the peace of God guard your hearts and minds.

William C. Stewart, MD

References:

1. MacIlvaine WR, et al. Association of strength of religious adherence to quality of life measures. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2013;19:251-5.
2. MacIlvaine WR, et al. Association of strength of community service to personal wellbeing. Community Ment Health J 2014;50:577-82. 
3. Stewart WC, et al. Review of clinical medicine and religious practice. J Relig Health 2013;52:91-106.
4. Stewart WC, et al. The source and impact of specific parameters that enhance well-being in daily life. J Rel Health 2016;55:1326-35.
5. Stewart WC, et al. Association of strength of religious adherence to attitudes regarding glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Ophthalmic Res 2011:45:53-6.

For questions or to view more of our research:

Email – info@teleiosresearch.com

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 _______

Disclaimer – This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.

 

 

Fruit of the Spirit: Living Well!

 

Welcome back! Thanks for visiting my blog today! We continue the conversation about scriptures that detail helpful attributes God desires us to have. One of the most important is stated in Galatians 5:22-23 which details the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

 

As they are a fruit of the Spirit how can they be gained? Last week we learned that in general there are three roles in the Christian’s relationship with the Spirit. These roles can be used to gain the attributes of the fruit of the Spirit as well as other godly characteristics that can improve our lives. Let’s apply these three principles in regard to the fruit of the Spirit.

 

Non-variable actions of the Spirit: 

 

A Christian should first realize they possess the Holy Spirit permanently: He dwells inside them with all of His available power (Ephesians 1:13-14; 2 Corinthians 1:22; 5:5); and the Spirit is our seal (guarantee) of salvation and cannot be removed (Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30).

 

Variable actions of Christians: 

 

It is only the believer themselves who can limit the action of the Spirit in their lives. Therefore we are told to “walk” (i.e., lifestyle) in the Spirit and become mature in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:18). We do this by being obedient and seeking the attributes of God through scripture.

 

Variable actions of the Spirit: 

 

If allowed, the Spirit through the word of God can empower our lives, put to death the deeds of the flesh, and lead and comfort us (Romans 8:13-16), changes us (2 Corinthians 3:18) and helps produce in us the 9 fruits of the Spirit. Not only may these characteristics contribute potentially to better wellbeing personally, but their presence is a measure of our maturity as a believer.

 

Other verses also speak about wonderful attributes the Christian may acquire from the Spirit (Romans 15:13; Romans 8:6; 2 Timothy 1:7; Romans 14:17; Ephesians 5:9).

 

Read more about the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives – https://teleiosresearch.com/holy-spirit-power-source-for-the-christian-life/

 

That’s all for now. Thank you for joining me. Next week we will discuss how a Christian, having gained better wellbeing themselves, can also enhance the wellbeing of their family, friends and colleagues. See you next week!

 

William C. Stewart, MD

 

Email – info@teleiosresearch.com

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Disclaimer – This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author alone and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.

 

Do You Have Peace?

 

 

Do you have personal peace - peace with God, peace with family and friends, peace of mind? Peace is one of the great quests of mankind! For those who know God through faith, personal peace is mentioned as one of the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22) that he desires us to have. 

 

Is it true? Can somebody who is a Christian have personal peace? We explored this topic in a study performed in Bartlesville, OK, at Grace Community Church (https://teleiosresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/CV-TELEIOS-GCC-I-CTCP-2013.pdf). On one Sunday, at two services, we asked the adult population to complete a questionnaire regarding different aspects of their wellbeing including peace as well as their adherence to the practice of their faith. 

 

How did we define adherence to faith? From the Bible, we delineated the following as ‘adherence to faith’ if: they proclaimed to be a Christian through personal faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross as a free gift of salvation; they were secure in their salvation; and they frequently utilized the five tools to maturity in their lives (prayer, praise, faith, reaching out and growing in knowledge of scripture) (Acts 2:42,47; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:23-26; 1 Peter 1:4-5; John 10:27-30).

 

The results of the survey showed that on a visual analog scale of 0-6 the average level of peace was 1.8 for the entire congregation (0 being most and 6 being least) - not bad! However, when we separated the congregation into groups based on adherence to faith, there was a highly significant difference between groups, with the more adherent group having greater peace! 

 

What explains the finding? Well, we don’t know for certain, but four potential reasons come to mind. 

·       First, the practice of Christianity causes us to focus on a higher being that has purposes higher than our own. This focus may make help take our mind away from our own anxious thoughts. 

·       Second, the adherence to the practice of Christianity provides for prayer to an accepting great high priest, Jesus Christ, who cares for our every time and need. 

·       Third, we know knowledge is power. Christianity furnishes an excellent text, the Bible, which teaches us the truths about God so we know how to think of ourselves correctly and do not believe lies about God.

·       Lastly, Christianity urges us to reach out and touch others within our faith and to provide community service. Consequently, this helps us not to concentrate on our own anxieties and issues (https://teleiosresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/CV-TELEIOS-GCC-II-CMHJ-2013.pdf).   

 

How can I get peace? Make sure you are a Christian and know that your sins have been forgiven freely by faith in Christ. You then should realize that God accepts you and this great salvation cannot be taken away.  Practicing your faith balanced between the five tools of maturity mentioned above will help build the mindset and practices which the Spirit can use to build peace. It takes time and commitment, but you can do it. The fruits are there and blessings beyond measure.

 

Thank you for visiting today. We are honored that you take time to read this post. We hope you will join us again next week!

 

William C. Stewart, MD

 

Email – info@teleiosresearch.com

Website – http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/c/TeleiosVideos/

 

 

Disclaimer – This blog and its content are provided only as information and are intended for visitors 18 and older. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author alone and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.

 

 

Baptism: What does Scripture Teach?

Welcome back to my blog and thank you for visiting. Today's exciting topic is baptism. Prepare yourself for a wild ride!

Water baptism is a sacrament in most churches. In general, the number and form of the sacraments in the church are quite controversial and in part define church denominations. Sacraments generally are meant to convey a blessing on the believer or allow them to show their dedication to Christ. Unfortunately, a full discussion of individual denominational beliefs is beyond the scope of this blog.

The concept of baptism, however, is vitally important. Unfortunately, baptism can be a very emotional and divisive topic between individuals and denominations. Importantly, as biblically based believers we need to consider 1st the scriptures themselves to differentiate what the Bible states about baptism, or does not say, from opinion and tradition. Further reading is referenced below (1,2).

Let us look today at the meaning of the word and how young Christian millennials celebrate baptism.

What baptism means

First, let’s consider the word itself. The word is βαπτιζω (baptizoo) in the Greek (the language in which the New Testament originally was written), and was an old term borrowed from the dye trade. It meant that a piece of cloth immersed in the dye became identified with the new color (3).

In the epistles, the portion of scripture intended for the church, Christian baptism indicates that spiritually we are identified with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:1-11; Ephesians 2:4-7; Colossians 2:11-13). Otherwise, at salvation we were regenerated to a new person. We will discuss the nuances of the different meanings of baptism in scripture in the next blog.

Water baptism is mentioned in the epistles in 1 Corinthians 1 as a criticism by Paul regarding the method the people in this church are handling the practice.

How do Christian millennials celebrate baptism?

Millennials’ view of baptism

Teleios recently completed a survey 189 mostly evangelical adolescents and young adults. We asked them if they had been baptized and by which method. We also inquired about the significance of baptism. Here are the top 4 answers regarding the method of baptism and some associated meanings:

• Immersed as a young person or adult (32%) – Marked differences in the rite of baptism exist across denominations. Immersion baptism, which perhaps most closely represents the regenerative work of the Holy Spirit, is preferred strongly by Baptists. Baptists typically believe the rite should be performed after salvation when the convert is old enough to make a responsible decision (4). However. Christians often consider that baptism symbolizes primarily a commitment to God by the new believer which was true also in our survey (20%).
• Sprinkled as a child (23%) – This form of baptism is preferred by several traditional denominations and is generally believed to convey either:
  • Forgiveness of the sin nature, and prior sins, allowing for a fresh start and working towards salvation, combined with grace (generally a Catholic viewpoint) (5).
  • Salvation in infants too young to make a decision for Christ. This protection lasts to the time of “the age of responsibility” (generally a Presbyterian viewpoint) (6).
  • Commitment by parents to raise a child in a godly manner leaving the responsibility to the child to be saved and baptized as an adult (often non-denominational Bible believing churches) (7).
• Never been baptized (19%) – Although this group might be seen as disobedient by some Christians; the New Testament epistles, which contain the injunctions to the church, specifically do not command water baptism. For example, the Quaker church does not perform the rite of baptism (8). Of course, salvation itself is by grace alone with no added works required (Ephesians 2:8-9).
• Spiritually baptized by the Holy Spirit at salvation (15%). This choice is closest to the meaning of baptism in the New Testament epistles (the letters to the churches). Although controversial, in the epistles when baptism is mentioned it speaks of spiritual baptism (except 1 Corinthians 1). The apostle Paul explained that spiritual baptism ‘identified’ us in the death and life of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Baptism represents the regeneration by the Spirit to a new person who can serve our Lord. This regeneration appears to occur at salvation accompanied by the sealing of the Holy Spirit (Romans 6: 2-9, Colossians 2: 11-13, Ephesians 2:4-7).

We will speak more about this in our next blog and this topic is also covered in the salvation portion of Know the Bible. Indeed, 68% of the participants in our survey believed baptism represents the regeneration of the Holy Spirit in their lives (Titus 3:5).

In summary, we've seen today that water baptism, though a usual part of church life, is not attested well in the portions of scripture intended for the church (the epistles). Churches are free to administer baptism as long as they do not go against the word of God. Baptism in the epistles is spiritual baptism which identifies us with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Next time we will discuss more deeply the different types of baptism identified in scripture. You will be amazed! Join us then!

William C. Stewart

1. Ryrie CC. Basic theology: A popular systematic guide to understanding biblical truth. Moody Publishers, 1999.
2. Chafer LS. Systematic Theology. Abridged Volume II. Kregel Publications, 1947.
3. https://www.westernseminary.edu/transformedblog/2014/02/25/baptisim-meaning-and-mode/
4. https://www.baptistdistinctives.org/resources/articles/believers-baptism/
5. https://www.catholic.com/tract/the-forgiveness-of-sins
6. https://www.presbyterianmission.org/story/what-presbyterians-believe-the-sacrament-of-baptism/
7. https://howtoadult.com/conditions-must-parents-fulfill-order-children-baptized-7763.html
8. http://www.religionresourcesonline.org/different-types-of-religion/compare/baptism.php

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

Website            http://teleiosresearch.com/

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Disclaimer - This blog and its content are provided only as information. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.   

The Power of Godly Thinking: Part 2

As we have discussed in past blogs Christians have been regenerated through the power of the Holy Spirit into new people, providing believers with the capacity to change into those who carry out positive and biblical actions.

However, to behave in a scriptural manner we first must know how to think correctly. Even Christians can fall into unhealthy thinking habits such as lust, envy, jealousy and anxiety. Further, even within the church people may regard others and situations in less than biblical ways. Unfortunately, such non-biblical thinking may incite destructive speech and actions which can hurt and adversely influence others.

Christianity is a religion based on facts and understanding (Colossians 1:9-10; Ephesians 1:17). Scriptural thinking is productive and healing. How then do we do it? Let’s consider a biblically based process to help us change how we think, and ultimately how we act.

In the prior blog we discussed using the Bible as a way to correct our thinking, to make ourselves holy and more consistent with God’s goals and desires. What is the next step?

Attitude

Once we begin to use the Bible to correct our thinking, what attitudes do we cultivate as Christians? There are many important attitudes in the Bible but here are some vital ones to help you start.

• Servant (Romans 6:10-23; Romans 12:1-2; Romans 13:8-14) – We ought to have the perspective of being servants of God and those who love and serve other Christians.
• Humility – A humble person is modest, without thinking too highly of themselves and without excessive expectations for others. Generally, our only expectation for ourselves and others should be seeking God. This applies not only to ourselves, but also to our marriage partners, family members, and Christian friends. Everything else is up for discussion! We serve God and do good to all men (Galatians 6:1-3,10; Romans 12:3; Romans 14:4).
• Faith – This is the foundation for a believer’s lifestyle. Romans 14:23 says what is not done in faith is sin. Therefore, we can have peace and joy in the decisions we make done in faith, not condemning ourselves. God is our help!
• Obedience – Adhering to God’s word and His wise precepts is critical. As Christ said, His commands are not burdensome (Matthew 11:28-30). Obedience produces the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and ultimately causes a rich love for God’s word because of its wisdom and actions in promoting healthy thinking and lifestyle (Romans 12:1-2).
• Thankfulness – We should be people constantly thanking God for all the blessings He has given us, from our salvation to the smallest elements of our lives. This is key to healthy thinking. We should not have expectations, but work to achieve our goals, created in faith, and trust in God for the results. When we expect certain results, whether from God, ourselves, spouses, family, friends, or work, we will never be satisfied (1 Thessalonians 5:18; Colossians 3:15).
• Hope – This attitude is essential because it protects our mind, not only from fear of death but even when we are young, from fear of failure. When we know our future is secure, we can possess confidence as our identity derives from God and not whether we succeed or fail. This attitude assists us in avoiding despondency and developing a healthy perspective towards life that allows us to prosper (Ephesians 6:17; 3 John 1:2).

Developing routine mental habits consistent with the Bible will create in us a godly mindset to view life and people the way God desires and help the Holy Spirit bear fruit in your life and others.

Join us again next time as we complete this important section on practical tips for developing a productive godly mindset. Thank you for visiting my blog. 

Share this important blog with your friends and family!

William C. Stewart, MD

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

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Disclaimer - This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.   

Defeating sin – You can do it (with the Spirit’s help)

The Christian life is an exciting process of being obedient to God’s word, while using biblical tools to build a more God-like character. This process was outlined in the blogs just prior to this one (1 Thessalonians 1:5-7).

However, there are a number of additional issues in the Christian life that are quite important in scripture and to Christians. This blog deals with one of several of these important topics: dealing with sin.

 

Defeating Sin

 

How do we handle sin as a born-again believer? This is a big question and plagues each of us some time in our lives. The understanding of a proper answer, based in scripture, is so important to our mental health and relationship with God.

 

Recurrent sin - How then does a Christian conquer, in a biblical manner, the issue of sin, real or perceived? Not only is the sin itself a problem but it often produces guilt which might further reduce the quality of relationship with God. Here are some tips from scripture and what is not in scripture. The New Testament epistles indicate the following:

• Perceived sin – Make sure your sin is actually viewed by God as sin and you’re not responding to:
• A self-imposed expectation
• Social Christian expectations from family or friends
• Legalism derived from other believers

 

For example, watching a movie is not a biblical sin but you may feel guilty based on self-imposed restrictions, your reasons for watching the film (careful: might include sin), or the perceived expectations of your church or Christian colleagues. As 1 Timothy 4:4-5 states, everything we do and use in this world should be filtered through prayer and God’s word.

 

Remember if you do see the movie (or do anything), do so out of faith, because anything we do without faith itself is sin (Romans 14:23). Further, only see it if you do not make fellow Christians stumble (Romans 14:13-21).

 

·       Obey – This is the predominant response to sin for Christians in the epistles: simply obey (Romans 6:12-16; Romans 12:1-2). We are to be God’s worthy servant! Importantly, we love God and others by obeying Him (1 John 5:1-3).

 

·       Hate sin – God hates sin as it is contrary to His righteousness (Hebrews 1:9). Sin ultimately hurts us and potentially others. Part of maturity as a person of God is understanding the ill effects of sin and to hate it as God does (Proverbs 8:13).

 

·       Defeat sin – We are to destroy sin in our lives. We can do this for two amazing reasons:

 

• The Holy Spirit – God gave us His powerful Spirit to help us defeat sin (Romans 8:13).

 

• Regeneration – The Holy Spirit regenerated us (Titus 3:5) when we believed at salvation to a new person who is not bound by sin (Ephesians 2:1-3) but it’s free to serve God (Romans 6:2-16).

 

·       We are forgiven (Romans 3:23-26; Colossians 2:13) – We do not need to ask for forgiveness because Christ covers our sins by our faith in His sacrifice on the cross for us .

 

Some view 1 John 1:9 as saying we should ask for forgiveness; if so, it’s the only such passage in the epistles. In context, this passage presents a foundation for fellowship among believers through our salvation in Christ, before the author proceeds to discuss in Chapters 2 through 4 how a believer acts and believes. John assumes a concept of sin (1 John 3:4-10), and of not obeying the commandments (1 John 2:2-6), as a continual action that, if it defines a person’s life, they probably are an unbeliever. Therefore, John is not using the term ‘sin’ in 1 John 1:9 as a daily sin of a believer that must ask routinely for forgiveness. The verse relates to unbelievers who need forgiveness to salvation.

 

• Nonetheless, it is healthy to recognize our sin (Romans 8:13) before our holy Father and change our life (please see next point), but forgiveness is not in view.

 

·       Spiritual warfare – Remember our fight is against Satan and not merely against institutions and people in this world. Our tools to defeat Satan, beyond our salvation, are:

 

o   Be alert – Satan wishes to devour you (1 Peter 5:8).

 

o   Remember his methods – Keep from giving him a place and ability to snare you (Ephesians 4:27), caused by:

 

Ø  Not knowing biblical truth or being mature in Christ (Hebrews 5:14; 1 Timothy 3:7).

 

Ø  Incorrect emotions such as anger, lack of forgiveness or temptation! (Ephesians 4:27; 1 Timothy 3:7; 2 Corinthians 2:7).

 

o   Resist him – James 4:7; Ephesians 6:11

 

Ø  Put on the whole armor of God – This is vital and was discussed in the blog about the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 6:10-17).

 

o   Flee sin – 2 Timothy 2:22 tells us to run away from temptation.  We are not to surround ourselves with tempting situations to try to measure our spiritual strength.  God tells us to put on our running shoes and escape!

 

·       What not to do – There is no need to feel guilty, kick yourself, and act defeated. Instead get up on your feet and obey the word of God! Get over it and get busy allowing God to use your good service to Him.

 

Bonus section, the unpardonable sin 

 

This important passage is in Matthew 12:31-32. These verses are often misunderstood, and Christians apply them to themselves.

 

• Remember, you should interpret the gospels through Jewish eyes! In this passage Christ was addressing the Pharisees, who were Jewish leaders. They had the witness from the Holy Spirit, descending upon Christ at His baptism (Matthew 3), which was a testimony He was the promised king bringing salvation as prophesied in the Old Testament (Isaiah 59:20-21; 2 Samuel 7:12-16).

 

• The Pharisees rejected the testimony of the Holy Spirit and so rejected the message of the kingdom and the gospel. Of course, this was unpardonable (rejecting the gospel).

 

• For true believing Christians, we have not rejected the gospel but are saved and secure through faith in Christ for the forgiveness of our sins. Accordingly. the passage does not apply to Christians.

 

These mental disciplines regarding handling of sin are critical to a healthy mindset. God has graciously given us a provision of unimpeded access to Him in prayer through our forgiveness in Christ. Join us again next time as we deal with the issue of guilt.

 

William C. Stewart, MD

 

For questions or to view more of our research…

Email                info@teleiosresearch.com

Website            http://teleiosresearch.com/

Facebook          https://www.facebook.com/TeleiosResearch

Instagram         https://www.instagram.com/TeleiosResearch

Youtube           https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh6wIbPgxeP0YvypwAn5-9Q

 

Disclaimer - This blog is provided for your use and enjoyment on an ‘as is’ and ‘as available’ basis. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.