Truth Magazine

By Tom Roberts

“And it shall come to pass afterward that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; And also on my menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days” (Joel 2:28,29).

“But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel” (Acts 2:16).

Any consideration of the themes contained in the Book of Acts must surely include the administration of the Holy Spirit. As Joel prophesied, the “last days” would see the pouring out of the Spirit of God. Peter, one of the twelve who received this pouring out in Acts 2 confirmed that God had kept his word, the last days had arrived and the Spirit was thereby being given. It is notable that the apostles were never confused about the Spirit, its mission nor its medium; but confusion reigns today as every charlatan and huckster seeks to make merchandise of the Spirit of God. How fearful it is to consider the fate of those who do despite to the Spirit.

The Spirit Was Promised

Luke confided to us that Jesus told the apostles “not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, said he, ye heard from me: for John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized in the Holy Spirit not many days hence” (Acts 1:4-5).

We find these promises (which were made only to the apostles) recorded in John 14:26: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” Also, John 16:13: “However, when he, the Spirit of truth, has come, he will guide you into all truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak; and he will tell you things to come.”

It is a mistake of major proportions, both textually and contextually, to assign these promises to all disciples. Read carefully and you will see that only the apostles were addressed. And it was only the apostles who received the fulfillment of the promise.

The Spirit Was Given

True to their Lord’s command, the apostles were waiting in Jerusalem. Just prior to the time when the Spirit was given, a number of brethren gathered to witness the selection of Matthias to replace Judas (Acts 1:15-26). But it is a superficial reading that would appoint the 120 disciples or the multitudes at the place where the Spirit was given. Please note that the last verse of chapter 1 states that Matthias was numbered “with the eleven apostles.” Then chapter 2 begins the statement, “And when the day of Pentecost was now come, they were all together in one place.” Who were the “they” of verse one? Was it not the “apostles” who are the antecedents of the pronoun in verse one? Further, we can pinpoint who received the Holy Spirit, because the ones who received the Spirit spoke in tongues, but verse 7 informed us that those who spoke in tongues 49were all Galileans,” an obvious reference to the apostles. Again, verse 14 clearly stated that “Peter, standing up with the eleven” began to speak and the crowd recognized that only the apostles were speaking (v. 11), “as the Spirit gave them utterance” (v. 4). But the multitude did not come together until after the Spirit was given, so they could not have been recipients any more than the 120 were.

The Purpose of Holy Spirit Baptism

Please note that every time there was an evidence of the Spirit doing something it did not mean that a “baptism of the Holy Spirit” was taking place. The baptism of the Holy Spirit was not a common event. Peter later recalled, at the time when the Spirit was poured out on the household of Cornelius, that it reminded him of what was given to the apostles “at the beginning” (11:15). Between Acts 2 and Acts 10, there is much evidence of spiritual activity, but not of Holy Spirit baptism. All the saved of 2:41 received the Spirit (2:28), but it was not Holy Spirit baptism. Likewise, God gave the Spirit to all who obeyed him (5:32). The Spirit shook the place where the brethren had gathered to rejoice at the release of Peter and John (4:41), but it was not Holy Spirit baptism. (Were the apostles baptized in the Spirit more than once?) The seven men who served the church in Acts 6 were “full of the Spirit” (6:3), but we know that they were not baptized in the Holy Spirit. How do we know? Because Philip was one of these who had the Spirit and could work miracles, yet when he preached to the Samaritans in Acts 8:5-24, he could not lay hands on the converts and give them the Holy Spirit. This was not a problem for the apostles Peter and John who came to Samaria later and imparted the Spirit to the Christians. Simon, being observant, wanted to buy the power which the apostles had, for “when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay my hands, he may receive the Holy Spirit” (8:18-19). Simon did not try to buy the gift from Philip, who, though “full of the Spirit” could not lay hands on others and impart the Spirit. He saw that the apostles had what others did not have.

It is clear that God gave the apostles the baptism of the Holy Spirit to empower them for their work as ambassadors of Christ and as those who would be able to unfold the “mystery” (Eph. 3:1-5) of the gospel. The apostles occupied a unique role in this work and were enabled by the Spirit to complete the task. But by the time the epistle to the Ephesians was written, Paul stated that there was only “one baptism” (Eph. 4:5) and it was water baptism, not Holy Spirit baptism. Holy Spirit baptism was not for all men and not for all time.

Cornelius

But didn’t Cornelius also receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit? First of all, it is not stated that he was baptized in the Spirit; but that the Spirit “fell on them” (10:44; 11:15). But I have little doubt that it was similar to what the apostles received, butfor a different purpose. Cornelius was not called to be an apostle (Acts 1:21-22). But he was a Gentile and this presented special problems to the church which was completely Jewish until this time. God used Cornelius in a special manner to prove in unmistakable fashion (by giving the Holy Spirit to Gentiles) that to “Gentiles also hath God granted repentance unto life” (11:18). Peter understood this, for as a Jew and reluctant to associate with Gentiles, he concluded “who was I that I could withstand God?” (11:17) What happened to Cornelius reminded Peter of what had happened to the apostles “at the beginning” (11:15). It also reminded him of the promise of Jesus to baptize the apostles in the Spirit (v. 16). Cornelius was a special case; he was not called to be an apostle; God used him as proof that Gentiles could enter the kingdom along with Jews. We should not make more of Cornelius and the Holy Spirit than the Scriptures do.

Confirmation of the Word

Jesus had promised the apostles that “signs shall accompany them that believe: in my name shall they cast out demons; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall in no wise hurt them, they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover” (Mk. 16:17-18). This is equal to what the Hebrew writer stated: “For if the word . . . which having at the first began to be spoken through the Lord, was confirmed unto us by them that heard; God also bearing witness with them, both by signs and wonders, and by manifold powers, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to his own will” (2:2-4).

All these things happened, as God bore witness to early disciples so that the word of God was confirmed. There were nine gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor. 12:4-11) and many disciples had them by the laying on of the apostles’ hands (Acts 8). But we should be reminded that such gifts were “according to his own will” (Heb. 2:4) and not according to what men want. God’s will was that during the time of the oral revelation, as well as during the writing of that oral message, confirmation of truth was clear so that false doctrine could be discerned. However, once the full message was delivered (Jn. 16:13; Jude 3; 2 Tim. 3:16,17; Gal. 1:6-9, et al), the spiritual gifts were no longer needed and were removed by God (1 Cor. 13:8-12). During the infancy of the church, special gifts were needed to supply truth; once full truth was delivered, the church “grew up” (13:11) and put away childish things. The age of miracles, of spiritual gifts, is over.

Just one example should show the work of the Spirit during the formative period of the church. Acts 15 recorded the great debate over admission of Gentiles into fellowship. When the apostles and elders at Jerusalem gathered, Barnabas and Paul “rehearsed what signs and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles through them” (15:12). The letter that was sent to the churches testifying of the events at Jerusalem included that “it seemed good to the Holy Spirit” (v. 28). The Holy Spirit was at work in the world, bringing in the full gospel message and confirming it (cf. Acts 19:1-7).

The Themes of Luke

We are indebted to Luke, as a companion of Paul, as a faithful proclaimer of the word, and as a writer and historian for both the gospel that bears his name and the book of Acts. This series of eight articles has sought to impress on our minds some of the major themes Luke set before us. This list is not exhaustive; more things are worthy of consideration. But being aware of these themes surely raises Acts above a simple historical narrative and provides us with a valuable insight to the harmony to be found between every part of inspired scripture. The next time you study Acts, whether in class or privately, see what themes you can discover and each will deepen his appreciation of the rich legacy given to us by inspiration.

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 16, pp. 492-493
August 20, 1992

By Larry Ray Hafley

Romans 16 is an intriguing chapter. it is full of names. In a sense, they are nameless names. For the most part, those faithful men and women are unknown, except for their kind commendation by the great apostle. Volumes of spiritual service and sacrifice lie hidden in the brief references which are scattered like so many rose petals in the pathway of truth.

We know of Aquila and Priscilla, of course, but what of 4tray well beloved Epaenetus” and “Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles” and “Urbane, our helper in Christ” and “Apelles approved in Christ” and “Peris, which labored much in the Lord” and “Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.” The list goes on and on. Who were these unselfish, striving servants? What thrilling and encouraging lives of faith did they live? Oh, how our hearts might be cheered and our spirits edified by knowledge of their “works of faith and labors of love.”

But, alas, all such dreams await the fulfillment of the Judgment, “the day of Christ” (Phil. 2:16). These fleeting glances and glimpses of first century saints reveal several important things to us:

(1) They tell us of Paul’s gratitude. Paul did not seek all the glory or praise for his efforts. He was quick to applaud others; he appreciated their efforts. Truly great men are always conscious of the help and support they receive which allows them to achieve and accomplish their goals.

(2) They tell us that all are needed in the work of the Lord. Well known, faithful preachers often deserve their notoriety among brethren, and we acknowledge their good name. However, apparently unknown men and women are essential to the growth of the Lord’s kingdom. “From whom the whole body, being fitted and held together by that which every joint supplies, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love” (Eph. 4:16, NASB). If you know such a person, one who struggles almost anonymously, let him know of your love for his works’ sake.

(3) They tell us how important it is to have our names written in the right places. Hymanaeus, Philetus, Alexander, Demas and Diotrephes are all mentioned in the New Testament, but like Judas it is in shame. Do you long for your name to be placed in Hollywood’s walk of fame? Do you want your name in a sports hall of fame? Certainly, you do not want your name in the FBI’s list! It is an honor for these brethren of long ago to be cited in Romans 16, but they all knew and rejoiced in a list that is far greater – “Rejoice, because your names are written in heaven” (Lk. 10:20). Is your name written there? It does not matter where your name appears, nor how often it is mentioned if it is not in the Lamb’s book of life, for “whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire” (Rev. 20:15).

Do you have a gracious, thankful appreciative heart for the work of others? Do you recognize that “those members of the body which are more feeble, are necessary” (1 Cor. 12:22)? Is your name written in the only place where it really matters? The unknown brethren in Romans 16 can still teach us a great deal.

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 16, pp. 490-491
August 20, 1992

By Jerry Parks

Through the generosity of many, another preaching trip to the Philippines, has been accomplished. Brother John Humphries was my traveling companion again this year. Brother Humphries and I have been working together on such preaching trips since 1986. 1 could not ask for a better co-laborer in the gospel. John is a veteran of many trips overseas and knows what he is doing. His teaching is rich and powerful and he is an encouragement everywhere he goes. We enjoy our time together but because we can accomplish more by going in different directions, we actually spend very little time together. We simply touch base with one another from time to time to make sure that all is well.

With each trip overseas to the Philippines and other third world countries, it seems to get more and more difficult and takes longer to recuperate. But with each trip, I can see more and more the value of such efforts and especially the need to continue making such trips. I feel confident that we are becoming well adopted to the ways and needs and problems of the Filipino brethren. Each year we meet and become better acquainted with more and more of the brethren. Each year we have opportunity to work with and stay in the homes of those who are striving to preach Christ in that difficult part of the world. Most of the brethren seem comfortable when we’re in their presence. The novelty and tension of an American in their midst seems to have subsided. The brethren seem more at ease and willing to concentrate as we conduct Bible classes and give advice in trying to help them solve problems that exist between brethren.

We spent the first week together conducting classes at brother Ben Cruz’s house in Manila. The national elections which were underway when we arrived, kept us from doing any real traveling till after May 11th. While at Manila, John taught a series of lessons on the book of Daniel and I presented a series of lessons on the seven churches of Asia.

On May 12th John continued his studies in Manila while I traveled by bus to Hagonoy for a visit with the Agulto family. Two were baptized there, then the next day I traveled by bus to Tarlac (the Mt. Pinatubo area) where I had an opportunity to conduct classes morning, noon, and evening in the home of brother Dominador Arcega at. San Felipe. I spent one week there and seven more were baptized. I also had opportunity to visit with brethren in five other congregations while staying in the home of brother Arcega.

After my stay in Tarlac District I returned to Manila and traveled with brother Ben Cruz to Pampanga District. Ben had converted a man shortly before that time who was from that village. The man returned to his home place and told the others about the pure gospel of Christ. When we arrived, the entire village was eagerly waiting our arrival. Included in that number was a denominational preacher who questioned me for hours after I had finished preaching about the one true church. Consequently, he and a number of the others in the village were baptized when brother Humphries returned to that location the following week. Stories like that make the trip worthwhile, no matter how many discomforts one must endure.

On May 21st I made a quick trip to Olongapo (Subic Bay) to follow up and verify some relief efforts for the Mt. Pinatubo victims. By this time brother Humphries had departed for a one week stay in Malaysia (Borneo) to visit with several newly established congregations. Early on the morning of May 23rd, I flew to Davao City on the Island of Mindanao in the southern most part of the Philippines. While there, I stayed in the homes of brother Juanito Balbin and with brother Joy Notarte. While in that area I traveled to at least nine remote congregations traversing difficult mountain terrain through Mt. Apo, Davao Del Sur and Digos areas. These trips were made in Joy Notarte’s Volkswagon “Bug.”

On. May 27th I was joined by brother Humphries and we traveled in a Jeepney owned by brother Mainbog to Kidapawan in North Cotabato. Half way there the drive shaft fell apart and we were stranded till we could hitch a ride on another jeepney. We finally arrived at the home of brother Manibog. The next day we visited five congregations before returning by Jeepney to Davao.

On May 29th we traveled by boat to Samal Island and preached and visited brethren for several hours before returning to the home of brother Notarte to pack for our return flight to Manila.

We arrived in Manilla just in time to participate in the wedding of Teresa Cruz who was marrying a young man she personally converted from Catholicism.

In all, there were 25 baptisms that took place while we were on this trip. Many Bible classes for preachers and other interested people were conducted. Several disputes were settled and we were able to provide some much needed financial help to needy saints. That included buying food for drought victims, buying eye glasses, medicine, clothing, as well as repairing fishing boats and other equipment so brethren could once again start making a living. The drought victims living in the Davao Del Sur area have been especially hard hit and are suffering greatly. Their crops are a disaster and they have had to eat the rice that was needed for replanting, Now many are not only suffering from the lack of food and water, but also suffering from disease and sickness that always follows from such a severe drought. They are desperately in need of food and medicine and have no money to purchase such necessities. Filipino brethren from other areas are trying to help, but they need much more. I would be happy to give you the names and addresses of those to contact if you could help.

Once again, I express my appreciation to all those who make such trips possible. If I can supply you with more information about any of these matters, I would be happy to do so.

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 16, pp. 494-495
August 20, 1992

By Carol R. Lumpkin

Becoming a Christian is one of the honored privileges all alien sinners have offered to them. This is accomplished only when the sinner is obedient to God’s power to save, the gospel of Jesus Christ (Rom. 1:16). There are some who claim to be Christians, yet the gospel has not been obeyed; in fact most do not know what the requirements of the gospel are. Christians are people who have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine (Rom. 6:17-18; 6:3-4). People in the first century A.D. who followed Christ were his disciples, Those disciples were first called Christians at Antioch (Acts 11:216). This was the new name the prophet Isaiah said they were to be called (Isa. 62:2).

Just because a person is religious (those in Athens were – Acts 17), just because a person is good morally (Cornelius was – Acts 10:2), just because a person claims Jesus as his savior (denominationalists do), just because a person attends worship some place (must worship in the proper spirit according to truth – Jn. 4:24), by no means concludes said person to be a Christian. If the above be true, then God would view a person as a Christian while practicing most anything. This is not the nature of God at all. Peter said, “Of a truth I perceive that God is not a respecter of persons: but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness is accepted with him” (Acts 10:34-35). If it was essential for both the Jews and Greeks to obey the gospel in the first century to be saved (it was), then it is likewise necessary for all alien sinners to obey the same gospel to be saved today.

All saved people are disciples of Christ, Christians. We know that we Christians may and do sin. “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us” (1 Jn. 1:8, 10). If a Christian leaves Jesus and his word for the world (sin), he ceases to be a Christian, a follower of Christ. “For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world” (2 Tim. 4:10). Was Demas still a Christian? No! Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3). Where they still Christians? No! Hymenaus and Alexander made shipwreck of their faith (1 Tim. 1:19-20). Where they still Christians? No!

When a saved individual turns his back upon the Lord and his word, he errs from the faith (Heb. 3:12), when a Christians departs the living God (Heb. 3:12), when a Christian falls away from God, abides not in the doctrine of Christ (2 Jn. 9), he cannot be a Christian while abiding in that lost state. The door is open for his confession (1 Jn. 1:9), repentance and prayer (Acts 8:22). Without doing the above he will never be a Christian again.

I often hear a preacher say, “If you are already a Christian and have sin in your life you need to confess, repent and pray.” The fact of the matter when a person has sin in his life he is not a Christian. A Christian is one who is in covenant relationship with God. When one ceases to follow Christ he is not a disciple of Christ, nor is he a Christian in the truest sense of truth.

Words are vehicles of thought. We must be ever so careful as to not leave the impression in the minds of those we teach that one is still a Christian while being in sin. Christians are saved people, those who follow the Lord.

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 16, p. 495
August 20, 1992