Ecclesiology - Church - Adonaic Theology

Outline

Origin
The true Church / Israel / Ezrach’
Nature
Government

i.    Elders
ii.    Deacons
iii.    Congregation
5. Spiritual gifts
6. Work of
i.    Worship
ii.    Education
iii.    Exhortation
iv.    Rebuking
v.    Discipline
vi.    Evangelism
7. Pesach’ / The Lord’s Supper
8. Zakar
9. Baptism
10. The role of tradition
11. Characteristics of
i.    Visionary
ii.    Bible Believing
iii.    Biblically Prioritized
iv.    God Seeking
v.    Christ Centered
vi.    Holy Spirit Focused
vii.    Holy Spirit Gifted
viii.    Discipled
ix.    Humbly Serving
x.    Appropriately Ministering
xi.    Passionate
xii.    Devotional
xiii.    Prayerful
   xiv.    Worshipful
xv.    Indigenous
xvi.    Excellent
xvii.    Positive
xviii.    Flexible
xix.    Teachable
xx.    Outwardly focused
   xxi.    People Minded
xxii.    Hospitable
xxiii.    Compassionate
xxiv.    Kingdom Oriented
xxv.    Missions Oriented
xxvi.    Directed
xxvii.    Evangelistic
xxviii.    Targeted
xxix.    Individualized
xxx.    Balanced
xxxi.    Grace Imparting
xxxii.    Mutually Accountable
xxxiii.    Disciplined
xxxiv.    Pure
xxxv.    Well Advised
xxxvi.    Well Led
xxxvii. Servant Led
xxxviii.    Empowering
xxxix.    Generous
xl.    Organized
xli.    Growing
xlii.    Collaborative
xliii.    Prepared
xliv.    Loyal
xlv.    Unified
xlvi.    Family Supportive

What Is the Difference Between the Universal and Local Church?

To understand the difference between the local church and the universal church, one must get a basic definition of each. The local church is a group of believers in Jesus Christ who meet in some particular location on a regular basis. It is more than a home Bible study group in that it has “set right what was left undone,” appointing “elders”.

Titus 1:5 HCSB The reason I left you in Crete was to set right what was left undone and, as I directed you, to appoint elders in every town:

Apparently, the Apostle Paul did not consider it a church until it had the God-ordained leadership and structure in place.

Ephesians 4:11 HCSB And He personally gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers,

The universal church is made up of all believers in Jesus Christ worldwide. The term “church” comes from at least 2 words. One of the words has to do with the meeting together or “assembly”.

1 Thessalonians 2:14 HCSB 14 For you, brothers, became imitators of God's churches in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, since you have also suffered the same things from people of your own country, just as they did from the Jews.
2 Thessalonians 1:1 HCSB 1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy: To the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

This word is one that pertains to the work of God in saving and sanctifying believers as “called out ones.” When the word church is found in the English Bible, the word used is this one.

The second word is one that speaks of ownership and literally means, “belonging to the Lord.” This is the word that is transliterated into the actual word, “church.” This Greek word is only used twice in the New Testament and is never used directly naming the church.

1 Corinthians 11:20 HCSB Therefore when you come together in one place, it is not really to eat the Lord's Supper.
Revelation 1:10 HCSB I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet

A local church is normally defined as a local assembly of all who profess faith and allegiance to Christ. Most often the Greek word “ekklesia” is used in reference to the local assembly.

1 Thessalonians 1:1 HCSB Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy: To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to you and peace.
1 Corinthians 4:17 HCSB This is why I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord. He will remind you about my ways in Christ Jesus, just as I teach everywhere in every church.
2 Corinthians 11:8 HCSB I robbed other churches by taking pay from them to minister to you.

There is not just one specified local church in any one area necessarily. There are many local churches in larger cities.

The universal church is the name given to the church worldwide. In this case, the idea of the church is not so much in the assembly itself but rather in those constituting it. The church is the church even when it is not holding an official meeting. In Acts 8:3, one can see that the church is the church even when they at home.

When examining the actual text of Acts 9:31, one can observe that the term is rendered singular even though the geographical area described was quite large. Therefore, the term describes the universal church - not just the local churches.

In their attempt to distinguish between the universal and local church, some may try to describe the universal church as the invisible church but be careful not to do this. For one thing, the Scriptures never describe Christ’s Body as “invisible.” For another, surely it was not meant to be invisible.

Matthew 5:16 HCSB In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

Here are more verses that talk about the universal church:

1 Corinthians 12:28 HCSB And God has placed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, next, miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, managing, various kinds of languages.
1 Corinthians 15:9 HCSB For I am the least of the apostles, unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
Matthew 16:18 HCSB And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the forces of Hades will not overpower it.
Ephesians 1:22-23 HCSB And He put everything under His feet and appointed Him as head over everything for the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of the One who fills all things in every way.
Colossians 1:18 HCSB He is also the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He might come to have first place in everything.

The True Church, Israel, Ezrach'

"On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it" (Matthew 16:18). The true church of Jesus Christ is made up of the redeemed from all generations. All those who have been saved by the blood of Jesus Christ are members of the true church. The Holy Spirit is present within the true church. God's word is preached, believed, and put into practice. The essential doctrines of the Christian faith are upheld. The sacraments are administered.

The true church is not the same thing as the visible church. The visible church is made
up of believers (those who have a saving faith), and unbelievers (those who have a professed faith, but in actuality do not know the Lord). Jesus said that this would be the case: "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from Me, you evildoers!'" (Matthew 7:22-23)

Jesus warned that false teachers would arise within the visible church: "Watch out for
false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves" (Matthew 7:15). "The Spirit clearly says that in the later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons" (1 Timothy 4:1). This has never been more evident than it is today. Cults that claim to profess Christ but deny his deity, or deny the deity of the Holy Spirit, are on the rise; the airways are filled with teachers and televangelists who deny or reinterpret the essentials of the faith; and false prophets within the visible church persuade people to focus their attention on counterfeit "signs and wonders" instead of focusing on Jesus Christ.

The true Church is one body. It has many parts, but is indwelt by one Spirit. Within the
true Church, Christ above all else will be exalted. "With Your blood You purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God" (Revelation 5:9-10).

What Is the Role of Predestination in the Church and Israel?

Predestination refers to God’s plan for the eternal salvation of those who choose Him. The term is proorizo (Strong’s #4309) and needs to be distinguished from proginosko, which means “to foreknow.” The process is clearly described in:

Romans 8:29-30 HCSB For those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers. (30) And those He predestined, He also called; and those He called, He also justified; and those He justified, He also glorified.

The steps in the process include:

Transcendent, timeless God foreknows how each person will respond to His call.
Those whom He knows will respond positively are predestined to conformity to His Son.
Then, within linear time, He calls them.
As expected they respond positively and are thus justified.
All those who are justified by the blood of the Lamb are eventually glorified.

I believe that the biblical revelation is progressive. What is more general in the Old Covenant is made more specific in the New. What is less clear in the Old is brought to full fruition and understanding in the New.

Colossians 1:26 HCSB the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to His saints.
Matthew 13:35 HCSB so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled: I will open My mouth in parables; I will declare things kept secret from the foundation of the world.

With that in mind, predestination is not systematically defined or taught in the Old Covenant. However, we do see intimations of it in the doctrines surrounding the Sefer Ch’aim, the Book of Life.[1] All humans are by default written in the Book of Life because God does not want any to perish but all to come to repentance.[2] This is how King David knew that his stillborn son would be waiting for him in heaven.[3] This also fits with the parable of the Sower where Jesus portrays God as profligately spreading the seed, even in areas where He knows for a fact He won’t get a return.

However, those who Hashem knows will react positively have mitzvoth prepared for them to do.[4]

This process of foreknowledge, predestination, election, justification, and eventual glorification was begun before the creation of the world.[5]

This process is presupposed in Matthew 20:23 where the Lord tells His disciples that their position on his right or left was already prepared by the Father. It is reinforced by His statement in John 10:29 that no one placed in His hand by the Father may be removed. The reason is because their salvation was already foreseen by transcendent God. It’s a done deal.

Hyper Calvinists would describe some men as “hell-fodder.” They believe that these people were created for hell. In my opinion, that flies in the face of 2 Peter 3:9. God absolutely has the right to choose who He wants for whatever He wants but the ability to do a thing and the desire to do a thing are two completely separate issues. He can do it but He won’t because of His grace and mercy. He is so amazing that He even gives those whom He foreknows will reject Him a chance! What a great God!

In regards to the Jewish people the fact remains that there has NEVER been an “us/them” dichotomy based on genes. All those who accept His mitzvoth are His people. Those who choose to obey His commands are to be treated as though they are “born Israelis”[6]. Those who reject His commands are to be cut off from the People.[7] His People have never been exclusively selected from one particular genetic puddle.

Ezekiel 16:2-3 HCSB "Son of man, explain Jerusalem's abominations to her. (3) You are to say: This is what the Lord GOD says to Jerusalem: Your origin and your birth were in the land of the Canaanites. Your father was an Amorite and your mother a Hittite.

Abraham was not a Hebrew until God got hold of him. The Jews were not a people until God got hold of them. The Pharisees forgot that important fact. It is Adonai, not Abraham, who is the true primordial Jew. Adonai taught all the spiritual and ethical concepts we hold so dear to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses.

Abraham was to become, not the father of Israel, but the father of many nations.[8] Through His descendent the Messiah all the nations would be blessed.[9] As Isaiah put it,

Isaiah 56:3 HCSB No foreigner who has converted to the LORD should say, "The LORD will exclude me from His people"; and the eunuch should not say, "Look, I am a dried-up tree."

As the Messiah put it,

Matthew 12:50 HCSB For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven, that person is My brother and sister and mother."

We may have once been disparate nations, but no longer. We may have once been foreigners, but no longer. Hashem has taken born Jews and adopted Jews and made of them one sovereign nation.

Ephesians 2:11-19 HCSB So then, remember that at one time you were Gentiles in the flesh--called "the uncircumcised" by those called "the circumcised," done by hand in the flesh. (12) At that time you were without the Messiah, excluded from the citizenship of Israel, and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, with no hope and without God in the world. (13) But now in Christ Jesus, you who were far away have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah. (14) For He is our peace, who made both groups one and tore down the dividing wall of hostility. In His flesh, (15) He did away with the law of the commandments in regulations, so that He might create in Himself one new man from the two, resulting in peace. (16) He did this so that He might reconcile both to God in one body through the cross and put the hostility to death by it. (17) When Christ came, He proclaimed the good news of peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. (18) For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father. (19) So then you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God's household,

A large group of Semitic people who claimed to be citizens of Israel, crucified the rightful King, rejecting the Lord’s anointed. In their rebellion they said,

Matthew 27:25 HCSB All the people answered, "His blood be on us and on our children!"

As a result, they and theirs have, just as Pharaoh did long ago, had their hearts hardened. God took what was already their desire and simply enhanced it – reaffirmed it. However, sometime in the future, a small remnant of Israel will be left when the Messiah returns. When that remnant sees the Messiah they will realize the error their ancestors made and will convert.

Zechariah 12:10 HCSB "Then I will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the house of David and the residents of Jerusalem, and they will look at Me whom they pierced. They will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child and weep bitterly for Him as one weeps for a firstborn.

As it has always been, anyone who accepts Yahweh Melek is considered God’s chosen people. All those who reject their rightful King are cut off, and cast out into outer darkness.

[1] Exodus 32:32; Psalm 69:28; Daniel 12:1
[2] 2 Peter 3:9
[3] 2 Samuel 12:23
[4] Ephesians 2:10
[5] Ephesians 1:3-6
[6] Exodus 12:48-49; Leviticus 19:33-34; Numbers 15:13-16
[7] Numbers 9:13; 15:29-31. For a more complete study of what it meant to be cut off and what it took to be cut off from the nation see Genesis 17:14; Exodus 12:15, 19; 30:33, 38; 31:14; Leviticus 7:20-21, 25, 27; 17:4, 9-10, 14; 18:29; 19:8; 20:2-3, 5-6, 17-18; 22:3; 23:29; Numbers 19:13, 20; Proverbs 2:22 cp 1 Kings 9:7 and Jeremiah 44:8; Ezekiel 5:11; 14:8; Romans 11:22
[8] Genesis 17:4-6, 16
[9] Genesis 18:18

Spiritual Gifts

"It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining the whole measure of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:11-13). Christians agree that God enables His people for works of service in order to build up the body of Christ. These gifts are detailed in 1 Corinthians 12. Generally, there is agreement that gifts such as teaching, evangelism, mercy, and wisdom, are still visible in the Church. Christians are not, however, in agreement that all the gifts listed in 1 Corinthians
12 are still available for use today.

It is in the area of "sign" gifts (prophecy, tongues, healing, etc.) where most of the
controversy occurs. The traditional view holds that the sign gifts ended with the closing of the canon. Proponents of this view stress that the sign gifts were needed only to help establish the Church. An opposing view is that "sign" gifts are still in existence today. Charismatics and Pentecostals believe these gifts are still available to the Church, and that the gifts will be bestowed by God as He sees fit. The main difference here arises in the area of tongues. The Pentecostal believes that tongues are the initial evidence of having been empowered by the Spirit, and thus everyone who has received the "baptism" of the Spirit will speak in tongues. The Charismatic believes that there is no one specific sign of having been empowered by the Spirit, and thus not everyone baptized in the Spirit will speak in tongues. All the above positions are within the realm of orthodox Christianity. This is not an issue to break fellowship over.

Sign gifts, as are the other spiritual gifts, are to be tested by the word of God. Testing a sign or doctrine by Scripture demonstrates a noble character, and is never an insult: "Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true" (Acts 17:11). No teacher is immune from such testing, and it is not "touching God's anointed" to do so. When a sign or doctrine is completely compatible with Scripture, it can be accepted; when it disagrees with Scripture it must be rejected regardless of who is promoting it.

Pesach'; Passover; Lord's Supper; "Communion"

"Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, 'Take and eat; this is My body.' Then He took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in My Father's kingdom'" (Matthew 26:29). Communion, or Lord's Supper is one of two protestant sacraments; the other being baptism. While baptism is generally a one-time event, communion is to be repeated throughout the life of the believer.

Communion is a time for reflecting on Christ and his sacrifice -- His life given for our
redemption: "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me" (1 Corinthians 11:24). it is a time for reflecting upon one's own life: "Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. A man ought to examine himself before he eats the bread and drinks of the cup" (1 Corinthians 11:27-28). Finally, communion is a time for reflecting on the fact that Christ will one day return for His church: "For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26).

There are three historic protestant views as to the presence of Christ at the table.
Luther's view stated that Christ was present in, with, and under the elements (His presence was added to the elements). The second position, Calvin’s, states that Christ is only spiritually present in the elements. The third position, Zwingli's, states that Christ is present neither spiritually nor physically in the elements. All positions are considered to be within the realm of orthodox Christianity, and should not be an issue over which to break fellowship.

Why Don't You Serve "Communion" On a Regular Basis?

Actually we do offer it on a regular basis but it’s just not as often as the average Christian church. If you are new to our congregation you will soon discover that the only standard we are really concerned about is the Bible. If the Bible commands it, it’s not considered an option here. If the Bible forbids it, it’s simply not happening. If the Bible is silent on the issue, or allows us to use our best judgment, then we do our best and don’t worry about it until something crosses a biblical line.

So what does the Bible say about the timing of “communion” or the “Lord’s supper”? The Lord’s Supper was actually observed on Passover.

Matthew 26:17 HCSB On the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Where do You want us to prepare the Passover so You may eat it?"

This shouldn’t surprise us for:

Luke 2:41-42 HCSB Every year His parents traveled to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival. 42 When He was 12 years old, they went up according to the custom of the festival.

So, when the Master said, "Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me" (1 Corinthians 11:25), we believe that “as often as you drink it” means once a year at Passover. This is reinforced by Paul’s statement.

1 Corinthians 5:7-8 HCSB Clean out the old yeast so that you may be a new batch, since you are unleavened. For Christ our Passover has been sacrificed. (8) Therefore, let us observe the feast, not with old yeast, or with the yeast of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

That is not to say that we feel the only time we may EVER have communion is at Passover for,

Romans 14:5 HCSB One person considers one day to be above another day. Someone else considers every day to be the same. Each one must be fully convinced in his own mind.
Colossians 2:16 HCSB Therefore don't let anyone judge you in regard to food and drink or in the matter of a festival or a new moon or a sabbath day.

We generally have communion on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) and at the Christmas Eve service. We also feel free to have communion on any other church service when it seems to be appropriate; to be a natural fit with the theme of the worship that day. We simply don’t feel that we should be obligated to have communion each week or each month or whatever other arbitrary date some denomination has made into a human tradition without any biblical basis. We know what Jesus said about THAT don’t we?

Matthew 15:3 HCSB He answered them, "And why do you break God's commandment because of your tradition?
Mark 7:7-8 HCSB They worship Me in vain, teaching as doctrines the commands of men. (8) Disregarding the command of God, you keep the tradition of men."

It’s actually amazing the superstitious power that human traditions like weekly communion, Easter or Christmas, the observance of which are not actually commanded anywhere in the Scriptures, have on some. A goal of the elders is to help our people move away from such things and to draw closer to the observance of what is actually commanded in the Scriptures on numerous occasions.

As one last point, consider:

Acts 2:46 HCSB And every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart,

If partaking of a memorial service to remind you of the Lord’s death for your sins is that critical to you, you DO have the option of developing a fitting ritual to do so in your own home with your own family or friends. You don’t have to worry about being clergy for:

1 Peter 2:9 HCSB But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

Baptism

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). Baptism is one of two sacraments in Protestant theology; the other being Communion. Our Lord commanded that we be baptized. Baptism is an outward sign of an inward change. It is a response to having received salvation through Jesus Christ. Baptism does not save; it is a result of salvation. As circumcision was a sign of the Old Covenant, so baptism is a sign of the New Covenant. It symbolizes our death, burial, and resurrection
through Jesus Christ. "Don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" (Romans 6:3-4).

Baptism also symbolizes the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit in our lives: "He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior" (Titus 3:5-6).

There are some conflicting opinions as to the proper method of baptism, just as there
are conflicting opinions as to who should be baptized. Some believe baptism should be by immersion, while others believe that sprinkling is proper. Some believe that only those who have made a personal confession of Christ should be baptized, while others believe that infants of believing parents should be baptized also.

Some cults teach that baptism, to be legitimate, must follow a specific formula. Some
teach that it must be done by the "true Church," which in their opinion means their church. As is the case with all cults, these groups mistranslate Scripture, and take verses out of context in order to "prove" their case. For them baptism becomes a means of achieving salvation -- it is a doctrine of salvation by works. True Christian baptism is a response to having received salvation, and is never a method by which salvation is achieved.

Does Baptism Need to Be By Immersion?

Our tradition and teaching was that it is a symbol and any way of doing it is alright.

I agree that it is a symbol, but God takes His symbols pretty seriously; just ask Moses about the whole striking the stone episode when you get to heaven!

Having said that, I have sprinkled: someone who was phobic about water, a prisoner who could not leave his jail cell, and someone on their death bed. Other than those types of situations, however, I believe it best to do it the way God commanded.

Matthew 15:3 HCSB He answered them, "And why do you break God's commandment because of your tradition?
Matthew 15:9 (cp Mark 7:7) HCSB They worship Me in vain, teaching as doctrines the commands of men."
Mark 7:8-9 HCSB Disregarding the command of God, you keep the tradition of men." (9) He also said to them, "You completely invalidate God's command in order to maintain your tradition!
Mark 7:13 HCSB You revoke God's word by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many other similar things."

We were told that if we submitted to baptism by immersion that would be as if the first symbol "did not work".

My argument (for detailed Scriptural teaching on the issue of infant baptism go here.) is that if it preceded faith it didn’t “work” anyway!

Either way would be a matter of our heart and will and if our heart and will was right the first time, there is no need to do it again a different way.

I agree that it is primarily an act of the heart. Just as marriage without love is a travesty, so is baptism that is not done with kavanah and faith in the Messiah. However, if our hearts are truly right, if we really do love the Lord, we will have no problem obeying His mitzvoth.

John 14:21 HCSB The one who has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me. And the one who loves Me will be loved by My Father. I also will love him and will reveal Myself to him."
John 15:10 HCSB If you keep My commands you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father's commands and remain in His love.
John 15:14 HCSB You are My friends if you do what I command you.
1 John 5:2-3 HCSB This is how we know that we love God's children when we love God and obey His commands. (3) For this is what love for God is: to keep His commands. Now His commands are not a burden,

We were also taught that the river Jesus was baptized in was too shallow to have been completely under and He could not have "come up out of". Is all of this wrong?

Frankly…yes…whoever told you that should be taken out behind the seminary and beat with an ugly stick. The reason John chose that particular area to baptize is because it had already long been used to baptize (by immersion) converts to Israel and Israel’s God. There were “mikvehs”, ritual baths designed for the purpose of ritual immersion already built there. The word “mikveh” literally means a “collection” – specifically a collection of water. Halakha dictated that full immersion in water was required to regain ritual purity after ritually impure incidents had occurred. Some things required “living” or “fresh” water, water from a spring, river or groundwater well for the cleansing to take place. “Living” or continuously flowing water has the advantage of being able to purify in a way that standing water simply cannot. So the mikveh was designed with this in mind. In biblical days these mikvehs (baptisteries) were built next to a river or spring, with some of the water detoured to run through the mikveh and out the other side. The tank was large enough for two people (much less one) to immerse themselves. There were actually steps down into them as you can see in the following photo.

Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation?

Then Jesus came near and said to them, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." - Matthew 28:18-20 HCSB

It is interesting how many Christians believe that a physical act could lead to their salvation after God spent so much time trying to pound the very opposite into our heads. If a physical act was necessary to our salvation, why not stick with the sacrifices?

Oh, I know the few verses that are taken out of context and used to bolster swiss-cheese arguments. Some will quote “Then He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved…” but will fail to go on to “but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”[1] Clearly, we are to be baptized, but the pivotal point is faith, not baptism.

In another passage we read, "Repent," Peter said to them, "and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus the Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”[2] Again they fail to go on a few verses where it was only those who believed who followed the Lord in “believer’s baptism.”[3]

Another passage that is frequently cited is Paul’s testimony to a Jewish mob. He quoted Ananias as saying, “And now, why delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins by calling on His name.'”[4] The error here lies in failing to take the entire context into consideration, including the original circumstances. In doing so we discover that Saul saw the light on the road to Damascus, immediately referred to Jesus as Lord, obeyed the Master completely, began praying steadily, was given a vision as well as a mission, and was already referred to as “brother” by the self-same Ananias, well before his baptism.[5]

Of course the ultimate (and in my mind at least conclusive) argument on the issue is the fact that the repentant thief on the cross was not baptized and yet was assured of his place in Paradise by no less than the Master Himself![6] What had he done to receive this wonderful gift? He acknowledged his status as a sinner and the justice of his punishment.[7] He recognized Jesus as the sinless Lamb and asked to be mercifully allowed to enter Christ’s kingdom.[8] He did this in front of a hostile crowd.[9] Baptism is the WAY we confess Christ before men. He could not get baptized but apparently his public confession was enough.

Baptism is not salvation. However it is a required step of obedience for all those who can do it.

[1] Mark 16:15-16
[2] Acts 2:38
[3] Acts 2:41
[4] Acts 22:38
[5] Acts 9:1-18
[6] Luke 23:43
[7] Luke 23:40-41
[8] Luke 23:42
[9] Luke 23:35-39 cp Matthew 10:32-33

Why Don't You Baptize Infants?

Christ’s disciples need to conform their idea of baptism to what they see in Scripture. Many of us, however, try to get the Scriptures to conform to our church’s (or denomination’s) practice instead.

According to the Word of God, certain qualifications were met prior to baptism which could not be met by an infant. We can verbally duel to our heart’s delight, but the plain practice of Scripture is:

Nowhere in the Bible is there ever an example of an infant being baptized.
Nowhere in Scripture is it said that an infant needs to be baptized.

The principle passage used by those who advocate for infant baptism is the one describing the conversion of the Philippian jailer. “Look!” they cry “It says that his whole household was saved and baptized.” However, that there were children in that household must be assumed because it does not say that anywhere in the context. They must further completely ignore the fact that belief in the Lord Jesus Christ preceded baptism for all of them – whatever their age.[1]

Early Church Practice
When Yeshua ascended to heaven, His last command to His followers was that they spread the gospel, not only making converts but disciples to the Way. All those who acceded to this transforming process were to be baptized. This is clearly something that an infant is not capable of doing.[2]

Even Peter who, according to the Roman Catholic Church was the first pope, taught that baptism followed repentance[3] and he continued the practice he began at Pentecost of baptizing those who have been saved and received the Holy Ghost.[4]

Philip also followed the practice of first proclaiming the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ before baptizing adult men and women.[5] Philip first carefully explained the Scriptures, convinced the person of their need for salvation in Christ and THEN baptized them. Conviction of sin, repentance and submission to the sovereignty of Christ precedes baptism. Clearly this is impossible for an infant. Note that the Ethiopian was an adult and that he too “went down into the water” and then “came up out of the water.”[6]

Paul’s conversion experience only serves to reinforce the idea that baptism can only be for someone who has understood their sin, repented and converted.[7] Those who were able to gladly receive the Word were baptized in the early church.[8] When the Philippian jailer, who guarded Paul, asked, "What must I do to be saved?"[9] Paul answered, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ." After the jailer believed, Paul baptized him.

The Purpose of Baptism
The problem that most people have is that they don’t really understand the purpose of Baptism. Understanding that clears up a lot of the issue. The purpose of Baptism is to identify us openly with Christ and with the sacrifice that He made for us on the cross.[10]

Baptism is to be done in a particular way. Not only the intended metaphorical image of death, burial and resurrection, but the word “baptize” itself indicates the mode.[11] Numerous examples of the practice are shown in the New Testament. Each confirms the mode of baptism. The Master waited until He was around thirty years of age before He got baptized. Notice too that He immersed Himself in the water. This is indicated by the phrase “He went up immediately from the water.”[12]

Baptism shows the impact of our salvation experience. It shows the Gospel message that Jesus died for our sins and rose again for our justification.[13] Baptism shows that the believer has died to the old life of sin and has been raised to walk in a different life.[14] It further demonstrates a faith that the believer will one day live with Christ.[15]

Jesus’ one death was eternally sufficient for our sins[16] and baptism is a testimony to the sufficiency of that sacrifice when it illustrates that Jesus is eternally victorious over death and the grave.[17]

Baptism is a call to commitment for the believer to forsake the ways of the world.[18] It is a call to commitment to completely live for Christ.[19] The prerequisites of baptism are therefore that someone preach and someone accept the Good News of the Gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ.[20]

Baptism is not salvation
Baptism is closely associated with believing the gospel. However, it is not synonymous with salvation. Note that Jesus differentiated between “belief” and “baptism.” It was a lack of belief that would condemn a person. Not a lack of baptism.[21]

This is reiterated in the example of the thief on the cross, who lacked baptism, and yet was assured of his place in Paradise after death by the Master Himself.[22]

There are not different types of baptism for different stages of life. The Bible clearly teaches that there is only one kind of baptism and has given numerous examples of the right kind.[23]

Conclusion
In conclusion, we believe that baptism should be modeled after the Master’s who was baptized as a person who was able to understand what He was doing and consent to it.[24] We believe that believers were baptized after they gladly received the Word,[25] believed, repented and confessed their sins.[26] This means that baptism is done with a conscious knowledge that it is the right thing to do.[27] The apostles, including Peter, all followed this example.[28]

It is fine to hold dedication services for babies, but we must make very clear that it is the parents and the congregation who are dedicating themselves to raising the child in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.[29]

We believe that a conscious decision to accept Christ as Savior is simply impossible for infants and therefore do not practice infant baptism.

If the Scriptures differ from our point of view or from our church’s practice, then we have a decision to make: say “I know it says that but…”, or say “I know it says that so…” We need to be cautious that we are not condemned by the Lord’s rebuke to the Pharisees, "You completely invalidate God's command in order to maintain your tradition!”[30]

[1] Acts 16:30-34
[2] Matthew 28:18-20
[3] Acts 2:38, 41
[4] Acts 10:47-48
[5] Acts 8:12
[6] Acts 8:27-39
[7] Acts 9:1-18
[8] Acts 2:41; 8:12
[9] Acts 16:30-34
[10] Romans 6:3-5; 2 Corinthians 5:21
[11] Romans 6:3-5
[12] Matthew 3:13-17
[13] Romans 4:25; 5:8; 6:4, 6-8;
[14] Romans 6:6-7; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:20
[15] Romans 6:8; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17
[16] Romans 6:10; Hebrews 10:12-14
[17] Romans 6:9; Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 1:18
[18] Romans 6:2, 11-13; Galatians 2:20
[19] Romans 6:11-14; 12:1-2; Colossians 3:5-10; 1 Peter 2:24
[20] Acts 8:12
[21] Mark 16:15-16
[22] Luke 23:39-43
[23] Ephesians 4:4-5
[24] Mark 1:9-10
[25] Acts 2:41; 8:12
[26] Matthew 3:6; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 16:30-33; 18:8
[27] Matthew 3:13-15; Mark 7:9; Luke 7:29-30; 1 Peter 3:21
[28] Acts 2:38; 4:12; 8:12-16; 10:48; 19:5; 22:16
[29] Ephesians 6:4
[30] Mark 7:9

Is Baptism Necessary for Congregational Membership?

As the council has been reviewing the Church’s Constitution, Bylaws and Handbook in order to present them for the church’s consideration this fall, the question has been raised as to whether baptism should be seen as a "door" into the church, a requirement for consideration as a member in good standing with the ability to vote. Before I give you the answer the elders have determined, allow me to clarify a couple issues.

There is a difference between salvation and local church membership.

Baptism is not required for salvation. The thief on the cross was not baptized and yet was assured of his place in Paradise by no less than the Master Himself.

Luke 23:40-43 HCSB But the other answered, rebuking him: "Don't you even fear God, since you are undergoing the same punishment? 41 We are punished justly, because we're getting back what we deserve for the things we did, but this man has done nothing wrong." 42 Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when You come into Your kingdom!" 43 And He said to him, "I assure you: Today you will be with Me in paradise."

However, baptism not being required for salvation does not preclude its requirement for church membership. For instance, a person is saved instantly, as soon as they make the commitment to repent of their sins and trust the Messiah as their Savior. Yet we are told to be slow to set people aside and allow them to demonstrate the truth of their conversion.

1 Timothy 5:22 HCSB Don't be too quick to lay hands on anyone, and don't share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.
1 John 4:1 HCSB Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to determine if they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.

“Turning over a new leaf” is not necessary to prepare oneself for salvation. Jesus is willing to save us while we are still struggling with our yetzer hara.

Romans 5:8 HCSB But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!

Yet, membership hinges on living in obedience to the Word. A person who claims to be a believer and yet lives in sin is to be taught, corrected, rebuked privately, and even shunned by the congregation if they will not repent.

Matthew 18:15 HCSB "If your brother sins against you, go and rebuke him in private. If he listens to you, you have won your brother.
Romans 16:17 HCSB Now I implore you, brothers, watch out for those who cause dissensions and pitfalls contrary to the doctrine you have learned. Avoid them;
1 Corinthians 5:5 HCSB turn that one over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the Day of the Lord.
1 Corinthians 5:11 HCSB But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother who is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a reviler, a drunkard or a swindler. Do not even eat with such a person.
1 Timothy 5:20 HCSB (in regards to elders caught in sin) Publicly rebuke those who sin, so that the rest will also be afraid.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 HCSB And if anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don't associate with him, so that he may be ashamed.
Titus 1:11, 13 HCSB It is necessary to silence them…13 This testimony is true. So, rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith
2 John 1:10-11 HCSB If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your home, and don't say, "Welcome," to him; 11 for the one who says, "Welcome," to him shares in his evil works.

One must differentiate carefully between two meanings of "church," two meanings of "baptism," and two meanings of "membership."

If one is speaking of membership in the universal church, the spiritual body of Christ composed of all true believers, spiritual baptism by the Holy Spirit through faith in Christ is the "door." The moment a person is united with Christ spiritually, he or she enters the church in this sense, whether or not there has been any previous exposure to a local church. Membership in the universal church is fully granted by God upon true conversion.

Membership in the universal church can only be granted by God. Salvation and membership in the universal church can never be renounced through church discipline.

1 Corinthians 5:5 HCSB turn that one over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the Day of the Lord.

The man in this case, though under church discipline, was still considered to be saved. In the rare case that a genuine Christian is expelled from a local church because of a temporary but intolerable pattern of sin, such a person has not been expelled from the universal church.

However, most who are expelled are false converts. And false converts, whether they are recognized and expelled from the membership of a local church or not, were never members of the universal church.

1 John 2:19 HCSB They went out from us, but they did not belong to us; for if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us. However, they went out so that it might be made clear that none of them belongs to us.

Local church membership must be granted by other Christians.

Matthew 18:18-20 HCSB I assure you: Whatever you bind on earth is already bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth is already loosed in heaven. 19 Again, I assure you: If two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them."

Local church membership is not automatically bestowed on the new believer by the Holy Spirit at conversion. It can even be refused by a local congregation when they are not convinced that genuine conversion has occurred.

Acts 8:13, 17-21 HCSB Then even Simon himself believed. And after he was baptized, he went around constantly with Philip and was astounded as he observed the signs and great miracles that were being performed…17 Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. 18 When Simon saw that the Holy Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money, 19 saying, "Give me this power too, so that anyone I lay hands on may receive the Holy Spirit." 20 But Peter told him, "May your silver be destroyed with you, because you thought the gift of God could be obtained with money! 21 You have no part or share in this matter, because your heart is not right before God.
Acts 9:26-27 HCSB When he (Paul) arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to associate with the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, since they did not believe he was a disciple. 27 Barnabas, however, took him and brought him to the apostles and explained to them how, on the road, Saul had seen the Lord, and that He had talked to him, and how in Damascus he had spoken boldly in the name of Jesus.

Unlike membership in the universal church, local church membership can be renounced through the authoritative disciplinary action of the same local church that granted it.

Matthew 18:15-17 HCSB "If your brother sins against you, go and rebuke him in private. If he listens to you, you have won your brother. 16 But if he won't listen, take one or two more with you, so that by the testimony of two or three witnesses every fact may be established. 17 If he pays no attention to them, tell the church. But if he doesn't pay attention even to the church, let him be like an unbeliever and a tax collector to you.
1 Corinthians 5:11 HCSB But now I am writing you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother who is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a reviler, a drunkard or a swindler. Do not even eat with such a person.

So, there are great differences between membership in the universal church (which entails salvation) and membership in a local church. It should be no surprise, then, to find that there are significant differences in the entrance requirements as well.

The sovereign work of the Holy Spirit (i.e., regeneration--spiritual baptism) is the only entrance requirement into the universal church. But according to the clear commands and consistent precedent of the New Testament, a credible verbal profession of faith in Christ immediately followed by immersion in water is the entrance requirement for those who wish to become members of a local church.

Just to be clear, believer’s baptism is a "door" that it is only necessary to enter once. After that, if the first immersion was biblically valid, when a Christian moves to a different local church, the credible testimony of his immersion is sufficient. That doesn’t mean a believer who want to confirm their vows to the Groom CAN’T get baptized again (like a couple renewing their vows). It simply means it’s not REQUIRED.

Thus what must be determined is not whether or not baptism is required for salvation. Salvation and church membership are two separate issues.

II. Believer’s baptism is required to be considered obedient.
What must be determined is whether or not baptism is required of an obedient child of God.

Baptism is explicitly said to be a requirement for every Christian.

Acts 2:38 HCSB "Repent," Peter said to them, "and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus the Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Baptism is the principle way we confess our faith in Christ publicly. In our view, any Christian who is unwilling to obey Christ in this initial sense gives little evidence that he or she will be willing to obey Christ in other ways. Should we acknowledge a person as a follower of Christ if he or she will not follow Christ? Certainly not. Christ Himself does not.

Matthew 10:32-33 and Luke 12:8-9 HCSB "Therefore, everyone who will acknowledge Me before men, I will also acknowledge him before My Father (and the angels) in heaven. 33 But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father (and the angels) in heaven.

Christ’s disciples are commanded to baptize every new disciple. Baptism is an act of obedience, not only on the part of the new Christian, but on the part of those who are commanded to baptize new disciples.

Matthew 28:18-19 HCSB Then Jesus came near and said to them, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…

Therefore, disciples who will not submit to the ordinance of baptism are not only disobeying personally, but are also hindering other Christians from doing their Christian duty.

The church cannot allow a situation in which partial obedience to Christ’s commands are permitted – either for those in need of baptism or for those who should be baptizing. We cannot excuse ourselves from Christ’s mandate to convert, baptize and disciple because some are recalcitrant. True disciples will understand that obedience cannot be optional.

To allow such sin in the case of baptism would be little different than doing so in the case of church discipline—excluding unrepentant offenders when they are willing to be excluded, but when they resist, patiently waiting for them to agree before taking church action. Certainly everyone would recognize that a person's willingness or unwillingness to be disciplined has no bearing whatsoever on the church's obligation to obey Christ. The same is true of baptism. According to Christ's command, we are obligated to baptize every disciple.

We do not fulfill our obligation by dunking them against their will, of course. We simply refrain from receiving them as members until they understand correctly and submit voluntarily to Christ's command.

Our unwillingness to receive unbaptized disciples into membership is not our way of saying they are not Christians. It is simply our way of saying that we, as a church, have no obligation to publicly acknowledge them as Christians by receiving them into membership until they have been baptized.

Baptism was the very first instruction given to new disciples, and the very first step of obedience taken by new disciples following conversion. The early church apparently included baptism as a necessity for being “added” to the congregation.

Acts 2:41 HCSB So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about 3,000 people were added to them.

Baptism was the very first step of obedience these new Christians took upon being converted. And this leads us to recognize that the very first instruction the new converts received from other Christians was on the meaning and necessity of baptism.

Furthermore, this was not merely the way new believers happened to be instructed on the Day of Pentecost. Peter's command in Acts 2:38, as well as the immediate baptism of those who believed, followed perfectly from what Christ commanded His apostles in Matthew 28: ". . . make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them . . . teaching them to observe all that I commanded you". Jesus actually prioritized baptism above teaching new disciples to observe all His other commands. Given these instructions, what else would one think to do immediately following conversion?

And consider the other examples:

The Samaritans

Acts 8:12 HCSB But when they believed Philip, as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, both men and women were baptized.

The Ethiopian eunuch

Acts 8:36-38 HCSB As they were traveling down the road, they came to some water. The eunuch said, "Look, there's water! What would keep me from being baptized?" 37 [And Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart you may." And he replied, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God."] 38 Then he ordered the chariot to stop, and both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him.

Cornelius and others

Acts 10:47-48 HCSB "Can anyone withhold water and prevent these from being baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked him to stay for a few days.

Lydia

Acts 16:14-15 HCSB A woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God, was listening. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was spoken by Paul. 15 After she and her household were baptized, she urged us, "If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us.

The Philippian jailer

Acts 16:31, 33b HCSB So they said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household."… Right away he and all his family were baptized.

In each of these cases, the very first priority following conversion was baptism. They were baptized without delay. Each of these converts were never asked if they wanted to be baptized. Baptism was simply expected and even commanded.

From the evidence it is impossible to conclude that a person who said he believed, but declined to submit to baptism, would have been received into the number of the initiated. His reluctance to proclaim Christ publicly through baptism would certainly have made his profession of faith suspect. Remember, these early believers were faced with terrible persecution for identifying themselves with Christ so publicly. How could we, who enjoy freedoms they could only dream of, do less?

After Pentecost, every believer in the New Testament was a baptized believer. Baptism and belief in Christ are so commonly spoken of in the same breath in the New Testament that it seems impossible and unjustified to separate them. In the book of Acts, for example, whenever believers were gathered together, the unstated but obvious reality is that they were baptized believers.

Acts 2:37-38, 44 HCSB When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles: "Brothers, what must we do?" 38 "Repent," Peter said to them, "and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus the Messiah for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit….44 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about 3,000 people were added to them.

As we said before, the same pattern characterized the conversions throughout the book of Acts. When people became believers, they immediately became baptized believers. No other category of "believer" ever presents itself after the Day of Pentecost. The fact is, any person who could rightly say that he or she was in Christ spiritually could also say (after a very short time) that he or she had been under the water physically.

Ignorance is not an adequate excuse. Some will point toward their baptism as infants and explain that that is how they were taught. However, just as ignorance or misinformation does not excuse a person from obeying state and local ordinances, it does not excuse anyone from obeying Christ in baptism.

Proverbs 24:12 HCSB If you say, "But we didn't know about this," won't He who weighs hearts consider it? Won't He who protects your life know? Won't He repay a person according to his work?
Matthew 7:22-23 HCSB On that day many will say to Me, 'Lord, Lord, didn't we prophesy in Your name, drive out demons in Your name, and do many miracles in Your name?' 23 Then I will announce to them, 'I never knew you! Depart from Me, you lawbreakers!'
Matthew 25:42-46 HCSB For I was hungry and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty and you gave Me nothing to drink; 43 I was a stranger and you didn't take Me in; I was naked and you didn't clothe Me, sick and in prison and you didn't take care of Me.' 44 "Then they too will answer, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or without clothes, or sick, or in prison, and not help You?' 45 "Then He will answer them, 'I assure you: Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for Me either.' 46 "And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

(cp King 13:1-24) Obviously, biblically speaking, ignorance is not bliss!

This matter is not shikul ha da’at but devar mishnah. A matter that is shikul ha da’at is a matter that should be determined in the individual's conscience because it is not directly commanded or forbidden (cp Romans 14). Its opposite is devar mishnah, clear settled law.

Many well-meaning Christian leaders have tried to receive unbaptized people into membership while they work out their personal convictions regarding baptism. They have tried to relegate believer’s baptism to the status of “shikul ha da’at" without the slightest exegetical justification for doing so. In this case, the presence of one error has persuaded many well-meaning Christians to commit another error.

However, the elders of this church believe and teach that baptism is directly commanded, and therefore cannot be shikul ha da’at. Once a person has been shown the clearly Scriptural teaching - they are duty bound to submit.

Error Indulged Leads to Error Entrenched. Indulging the error of misguided Christians out of patience and love does not tend to make their error go away and in fact directly contradicts the Scriptural teaching on the nature of true love.

Romans 12:9 HCSB Love must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good.

The fact is errors that are allowed to be perpetuated within a church out of "love" only tend to become more deeply rooted. In many cases, the error eventually comes to be seen as the standard.

1 Corinthians 5:1-2 HCSB It is widely reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and the kind of sexual immorality that is not even condoned among the Gentiles--a man is living with his father's wife. 2 And you are inflated with pride, instead of filled with grief so that he who has committed this act might be removed from among you…6 Your boasting is not good. Don't you know that a little yeast permeates the whole batch of dough?

If an unbiblical approach to baptism prevails in this case, results will certainly follow that will actually increase the problem. Consider the following likely scenarios:

1. Immersion will become optional and irrelevant.
If baptism is not seen as essential for initial reception into membership, when will it become essential? After a week? How about a month? Perhaps a year would be more reasonable. But then, why not two years, or five, or ten? And if you are willing to go that far, you are willing to say (actually, you have already said) that baptism is not a requirement at all.

2. Leaders are chosen from among the people. Therefore such a church will end up making unbaptized elders. After all, what legitimate reason could such a church give for refusing an otherwise qualified person's request to be an elder? He was received as a "member-in-good-standing" in his unbaptized condition. He was told that he would not be a second-class member in any sense because he was unbaptized. And Paul says nothing explicitly to either Timothy or Titus about baptism being a requirement for eldership.

3. Unbaptized elders will reinforce the belief that baptism is optional. An unbaptized man in a teaching and leadership position would presumably be permitted to teach the Bible according to his own convictions, including those related to baptism. After all, his soundness in doctrine and capability as a teacher were required for him to be made an elder in the first place. Even if a local church found a legitimate way to prevent him from openly advocating infant baptism, his status as a respected teacher, combined with everyone's knowledge of his "baptism" as an infant, would give tacit affirmation to that practice. We would actually have a situation in which infant baptism was being affirmed as valid by either open teaching or by implication!

4. At some point, churches who accept unbaptized Christians as members will likely begin compromising in other areas of Christian doctrine and practice.

Partial obedience is not obedience but convenience. (Illustration of Saul and the Amalekite order – 1 Samuel 15:13-23)

1 Samuel 15:22-23 Then Samuel said: Does the LORD take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the LORD? Look: to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams. 23 For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and defiance is like wickedness and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king.

Conclusion
So in response to the question “is believer’s baptism required for church membership”, after carefully considering the matter the elders unanimously believe the answer is “yes”. In this sense baptism is the "door" into the local church.

It seems plain to us that baptism was a prerequisite for being accepted into the first gatherings of professing believers. And if it was for them, it must be for us. As Paul said to the Thessalonians,

2 Thessalonians 2:15 HCSB Therefore, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions you were taught, either by our message or by our letter.

What Is the "Baptism For the Dead" in 1 Corinthians 15:29?

Otherwise what will they do who are being baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, then why are people baptized for them? - 1 Corinthians 15:29 HCSB

Numerous explanations have been offered for this verse ranging from the inane to the sophisticated. Mormonism, in particular, has claimed that this verse supports their view of baptism for the dead.

In their practice, individuals go to their local Mormon temple, dress appropriately for baptism, representatively adopt the name of a person who has died, and then the Mormon is baptized in water for the deceased person. This way, the dead person has fulfilled the requirements of salvation (according to Mormonism) in the afterworld and can enjoy further spiritual benefits in the spiritual realm.

But the Mormons are incorrect. They have usurped this verse and taken it out of context. So let’s examine this verse briefly so we can see what Paul is talking about when he mentions baptism for the dead.

In verses 1-19, the fact of Christ’s resurrection is detailed by Paul. Beginning in verse 20 and going through verse 23, Paul speaks about the order of the resurrection. Christ is the first one raised – in a glorified body – and then those who are His will be raised. Next, verses 24-29 mention Christ’s reign and the abolition of death. This is when this controversial verse occurs.

Just north of Corinth was a city named Eleusis. This was the location of a pagan religion where baptism in the sea was practiced to guarantee a good afterlife. This religion was mentioned by Homer in the Hymn to Demeter (478-479). The Corinthians were known to be heavily influenced by other customs. After all, they were in a large economic area where a great many different people frequented. It is probable that the Corinthians were being influenced by the religious practices found at Eleusis where baptism for the dead was practiced.

Paul used this example from the pagans in 1 Corinthians 15:29, when he said, “…if the dead are not raised at all, then why are people baptized for the dead?” Paul did not say “we.” This is significant because the Christian church was not practicing baptism for the dead – the pagans were.

Paul’s point was simple: resurrection is a reality. It is going to happen when Jesus returns. Even the pagans believe in the resurrection, otherwise, why would they baptize for the dead?

However, some are not convinced by this argument and state that the language is not generalized in the Greek and, therefore, Paul is not speaking about the pagans. Let’s take a look at it in the original, shall we?

ἐπεὶ τί ποιήσουσιν οἱ βαπτιζόμενοι ὑπὲρ τῶν νεκρῶν; εἰ ὅλως νεκροὶ οὐκ ἐγείρονται, τί καὶ βαπτίζονται ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν

Literally, the verse is translated as:

Else1893 what5101 shall they do4160 which are baptized907 for5228 the3588 dead,3498 if1487 thedead3498 rise1453 not3756 at all?3654 why5101 are they then2532 baptized907 for5228 the3588 dead?3498

The issue here is the fifth and sixteenth words, “baptizontai” – “they are baptized.” In both cases they are present, passive, indicative, third person, plural. In other words, in both cases the appropriate translation is generalized and in the third person. Paul does not refer to the recipients of the letter (the Christians) but to some unnamed third party.

Is Church Attendance Necessary?

Is attendance to a formally organized church necessary? Isn’t any gathering of believers, including a home Bible study or prayer group a church?

Meforshim:
The church is not a building[1] but a group of believers who have gathered together to worship the Lord.[2] Its purpose is the maturation of the believer. In order to achieve this goal, God gave certain gifts that, when appropriately exercised, will bring spiritual maturity.[3]

A group of Christians does not necessarily comprise a church any more than a pile of bricks makes a house. Until properly organized, all you have is useless chaos. Paul considered matters unfinished until elders were appointed to lead.[4] Consider what happened in Israel when there was no authorized leadership and each man did as he saw fit.[5] Because of the tendency of any group of humans to follow the lowest common denominator[6] these elders must measure up to some pretty high standards. These qualifications must be not only observed by the congregation (and the local community) but publicly approved![7]

Consider the following views of the ekklesia:

The Church as a Court
Does any of you who has a complaint against someone dare go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world is judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest cases? Do you not know that we will judge angels--not to speak of things pertaining to this life? So if you have cases pertaining to this life, do you select those who have no standing in the church to judge? I say this to your shame! Can it be that there is not one wise person among you who will be able to arbitrate between his brothers? - 1 Corinthians 6:1-5 HCSB

The foundational truth of Christ’s identity as the divine Messiah forms the basis for the existence of the single largest and most powerful human organization on earth – the ekklesia. “The what?” you may ask. “Don’t you mean the ‘church’?” Well…yes and no.

You see, like the term “Christian”, “Church” as a word as been so used, abused and confused that many people don’t even know what it means any more. Some think that a couple Christians hanging out at the local donut shop form a church. They’ll even quote Jesus as saying “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them.”[8]

The problem is that the context of that statement was actually church discipline! Our Lord gave us the whole disciplinary procedure from private rebuke to public censure. Then He authorized the ekklesia saying, “I assure you: Whatever you bind on earth is already bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth is already loosed in heaven. Again, I assure you: If two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them."[9]

So the verse most used by those who argue they don’t have to attend church is actually supporting a formally structured and duly authorized assembly!

As with most things, to get a proper understanding of the ekklesia, you have to go back to the beginning, meaning in the Old Covenant. Every time you find the word “ekklesia” in the Septuagint, it is translating the Hebrew word “qahal”.[10] Qahal is not actually a “religious” term. It is used in the Old Covenant as an assembly gathered to judge or deliberate a matter. You see this in Ezekiel where the assembly gathered to judge and execute judgment.[11] It can be the whole assembly of all of God’s people[12] or a smaller group duly appointed to represent them.[13]

Either way, a ‘qahal’ or ‘ekklesia’ must be formally structured, organized and authorized to count as a true assembly. Any two or three can make judgments but that doesn’t mean it counts.

The Church as an Army
Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God!" And Jesus responded, "Simon son of Jonah, you are blessed because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the forces of Hades will not overpower it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth is already bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth is already loosed in heaven." - Matthew 16:16-19 HCSB

One of the first times “qahal”[14] is used it describes the assembly gathered to plan or execute war.[15] For example, the whole ‘qahal’ of Israel asked for tax relief and when their request was refused, they rejected their military obligations to King Rehoboam.[16]

We are here to fight a spiritual war and if properly based on the right concept of our Lord’s true identity, the ecclesiastical army is invincible! Christ said that the forces of Hades itself would be completely useless against her.

Although we are walking in the flesh, we do not wage war in a fleshly way, since the weapons of our warfare are not fleshly, but are powerful through God for the demolition of strongholds. We demolish arguments and every high-minded thing that is raised up against the knowledge of God, taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.[17]

Paul called Epaphroditus, Apphia and Archippus “fellow soldiers”[18] and urged Timothy to “share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.”[19] It interests me that Paul fleshed out that metaphor by immediately delving into submission to proper authority and following the rules,[20] two things that those who don’t feel they need to attend church pretty consistently struggle with.

As Marine, I understand the power that a few well-trained, coordinated and committed people wield. Jesus understood that as well, focusing his attention on twelve good men (the size of a squad) but really working on Peter, James and John (the size of a fire team). However, He never intended them to stay that small, commanding his “force amplifiers” to go, make disciples, baptize and teach them everything.[21]

In order to ensure the faithful continuance of His teachings He gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers[22] and until some appropriately gifted and called leaders are appointed – it’s not a real church.[23]

Is a handful of soldiers an army? Oh – they can do a lot of damage – but are they an army? Then neither is an unorganized handful of Christians, regardless of where they meet. Until they are properly organized and authorized they are susceptible to becoming rogue, chaotic elements; loose canons if you will.

Those who fail to bring their parachurch activities under the authority of their local ekklesia DO create a lot of damage. Unfortunately it’s usually to the cause of Christ.

The Church as a Worshipping Congregation
Miriam and Aaron criticized Moses because of the Cushite woman he married (for he had married a Cushite woman). They said, "Does the LORD speak only through Moses? Does He not also speak through us?" And the LORD heard it. Moses was a very humble man, more so than any man on the face of the earth. Suddenly the LORD said to Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, "You three come out to the tent of meeting." So the three of them went out. - Numbers 12:1-4 HCSB

God is concerned about decency and order.[24] Since the very first act of worship, God has always been concerned about doing things the right way.[25] Unfortunately, since the very first act of worship, Humanity has been rebelling to that authoritative chain of command. Cain rebelled and ended up killing his brother Abel over it.[26]

In Numbers we read that Miriam and Aaron, out of jealousy, failed to submit to and criticized the properly gifted and called leader. Now, to get how seriously God takes this, you need to understand that they were actually PART of the chain of command! Aaron was the high priest[27] and Miriam was a worship leader![28] God actually stated that He had sent all three to rescue the people of Israel from Egypt.[29]

Yet when Miriam and Aaron grumbled, “Does the Lord speak only through Moses? Does He not also speak through us?” The Lord heard it and called them out on the matter. He reinforced Moses’ leadership and afflicted Miriam with leprosy. Once Aaron properly submitted to Moses’ God-ordained authority and addressed him as “My Lord” God healed her, though she still had to remain outside the camp for seven days.[30]

The worshipping assembly was not all those who lived among the Israelite people. Only those who met certain qualifications were allowed to enter the “qahal” and offer sacrifices.[31] They could be neither temporary dwellers nor permanent dwellers who refused to submit to the laws of the land.[32] In today’s congregational terms that would imply “church hoppers” or “church attenders living in unrepentant sin.” How much less those who fail to attend at all?

Clearly, the qahal is the qualified, authorized, submissive, worshipping and voting community.[33] Anyone may worship at any time, anywhere. We can worship God in prison! We can worship God in catacombs, open fields and cow sheds! But worship is not the sole criteria for the formation of a church, any more than shooting bullets is the sole criteria for the formation of an army!

Many try circumvent the qualifications necessary to be a church leader[34] by starting a little home Bible study and then using THAT as their soap box for their personal views. They can bypass the clear teachings of the apostles and the authority of the elders.[35] They seek not only to follow the easy path but to teach an easy, laissez-faire doctrine in order to gain a following:

Jude 1:16 HCSB These people are discontented grumblers, walking according to their desires; their mouths utter arrogant words, flattering people for their own advantage.
2 Peter 2:2 HCSB Many will follow their unrestrained ways, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed.
2 Timothy 3:5-7 HCSB holding to the form of religion but denying its power. Avoid these people! 6 For among them are those who worm their way into households and capture idle women burdened down with sins, led along by a variety of passions, 7 always learning and never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.

All we can say to such is, “Remember what the Lord Your God did to Miriam on the journey…”[36]

The Church as School
And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. - 2 Timothy 2:2 HCSB

“I don’t need to attend church.” Some claim. “I can stay home and read my Bible. The Holy Spirit Himself teaches me.” They’ll even quote, “The anointing you received from Him remains in you, and you don't need anyone to teach you. Instead, His anointing teaches you about all things, and is true and is not a lie; just as it has taught you, remain in Him.”[37]

However, just as they misquote Christ’s reference to a beit din[38], they also take John’s words out of context. John was warning against those who would try to deceive and urging us to rely on the Holy Spirit’s ability to remind us of Christ’s teachings.[39] In this he was leaning on the Master’s promise that when we will be handed over for the Great Persecution we will not need to worry about how we should speak or what we should say. The Holy Spirit will give us the right turn of phrase at that hour and we will not be speaking but the Spirit will be speaking through us.[40] He will be so effective that none of our adversaries will be able to resist or contradict our message.[41]

However, this cannot be misconstrued as authorization to escape the proper chain of command. Paul urged young pastor Timothy to give attention to public reading, exhortation and teaching. “Do not neglect the gift that is in you;” he said, “it was given to you through prophecy, with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.”[42] Notice how Timothy received his authority?

Ongoing discipleship and teaching holds a central part of the Lord’s Great Commission.[43] That chain of custody was passed on by the authority of the Father to the Son, to the apostles, to the elders of the first century assemblies and on through, in an unbroken chain to today. What each church leader heard and was taught, was in turn taught to other faithful men who then continued teaching others also.

2 Timothy 2:2 HCSB And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, commit to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.

A crucial part of this process is the authority of the called out leaders of each local assembly to teach, reprove, rebuke, correct and train according to the Word of God.[44] It is their responsibility to rebuke false teachers and sinning sheep sharply so that they may be sound in the faith.[45] However, it must be “consistent with sound teaching”[46]

There’s the rub. Without regard to the warning about teachers being judged by higher standards,[47] some wolves still desire to cut a few sheep out of the herd so that they can devour them at their leisure.[48] They just want to voice their opinions and live however they like.

“Woe to those who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness, who are wise in their own opinion and clever in their own sight.”[49]

Conclusion
This church began as a home Bible study. We are not opposed to home Bible studies or other para-church organizations. The question at hand is not the validity of home Bible studies but whether or not they are sufficient in and of themselves for the ongoing, long-term health of a disciple.

It is the considered opinion of the elders of this assembly that because of these and many other scriptures that only the properly organized and authorized assembly, led by gifted, called and sanctified elders and deacons, is to be considered a church.

The Psalmist said “I rejoiced with those who said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”[50] Each of us has a significant contribution to make to the local body.[51] Our Master attended His local congregation regularly, [52] and when we fail to follow His example we not only fail the Body, but we run the risk of becoming cancerous!

God chose to work through the local church. Para-church organizations and home Bible study groups, while useful in a limited sense, do not carry the Lord’s authorization and should submit their activities to the leadership of a local church. They need to keep in mind that they exist to serve the church and not the other way around.

Let us approach the house of God respectfully, with the purpose of listening and learning.[53] Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of His coming back again is drawing near.[54]

[1] Isaiah 66:1; Acts 17:24
[2] Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Corinthians 3:6
[3] Hebrews 10:24-25; Ephesians 4:11-14
[4] Titus 1:5
[5] Judges 19
[6] Titus 1:10-11; 2 Timothy 4:2-4
[7] Acts 6:3, 6; 13:1-3; Titus 1:6-9; 1 Timothy 3:2-7
[8] Matthew 18:20
[9] Matthew 18:15-20; note that Jesus was alluding to the halakic practice of only judging crimes on the basis of two or three witnesses which is why a beit din must have no less than three members.
[10] Strongs’ #6951; literally “assembly”
[11] Ezekiel 23:45-47
[12] 2 Chronicles 1:2
[13] 1 Chronicles 13:1-2
[14] Strongs’ #6951; literally “assembly”
[15] Genesis 49:6 cp Ezekiel 17:17
[16] 1 Kings 12:3
[17] 2 Corinthians 10:3-5
[18] Philippians 2:25; Philemon 1:2
[19] 2 Timothy 2:3
[20] 2 Timothy 2:4-5
[21] Matthew 28:19-20
[22] Ephesians 4:11-14
[23] Titus 1:5
[24] 1 Corinthians 14:40
[25] Genesis 4:3-7
[26] Genesis 4:8
[27] Exodus 28:1
[28] Exodus 15:20-21
[29] Micah 6:4
[30] Numbers 12:1-16
[31] Deuteronomy 23:1
[32] Numbers 15:15
[33] Numbers 16:3, 33 cp 18:4
[34] 1 Timothy 3; Titus 1
[35] 1 Timothy 4:14
[36] Deuteronomy 24:9
[37] 1 John 2:27
[38] Matthew 18:20
[39] John 14:26-27
[40] Matthew 10:17-20
[41] Luke 21:15
[42] 1 Timothy 4:13-16
[43] Matthew 28:19-20
[44] 2 Timothy 3:16
[45] Titus 1:13; 2:15
[46] Titus 2:1
[47] James 3:1
[48] 1 Timothy 1:7; 2 Peter 2:1-3
[49] Isaiah 5:20-21
[50] Psalm 122:1
[51] 1 Corinthians 12:13
[52] Luke 4:16
[53] Ecclesiastes 5:1; Habakkuk 2:20
[54] Hebrews 10:25

Is There a Biblical Worship Style?

Hebrew is a “pictorial” language meaning that most of the principle words have (besides their denotation) an image they connote. For instance, the word “ch’esed” which is generally translated “loving kindness” connotes a mother bending over her child’s cradle. This “verbal painting” has been carried over even in many English translations by the oft’ recurring word “behold” that precedes many statements. It can also be seen in phrases such as “he arose and went”, “he opened his lips and spoke”, “he lifted up his eyes and saw” or “he lifted up his voice and wept.”

Below I’ll give you one Hebrew word, its definition and some biblical examples of that word. You will notice that as often as not, because there are no correlating English terms the translator simply chose to use a single word rather than the phrase that would be required for a complete understanding.

I’ve organized the concepts into three relevant groups: physical, emotional and musical worship.

I. Physical Worship

Alats – to jump for joy, exult, be joyful, rejoice, triumph

Psalms 5:11 HCSB But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them shout for joy forever. May You shelter them, and may those who love Your name boast about You.
Psalms 9:2 HCSB I will rejoice and boast about You; I will sing about Your name, Most High.
Psalms 68:3 HCSB But the righteous are glad; they rejoice before God and celebrate with joy.

Barak – 1288; to kneel or bow, to give reverence to God as an act of adoration, implies a continual conscious giving place to God, to be tuned to him and his presence

2 Chronicles 6:13 HCSB For Solomon had made a bronze platform seven and a half feet long, seven and a half feet wide, and four and a half feet high and put it in the court. He stood on it, knelt down in front of the entire congregation of Israel, and spread out his hands toward heaven.
Psalms 34:1 HCSB I will praise the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.
Psalms 95:6 HCSB Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.

Chagag – 2287; to celebrate, to observe festival, to march in sacred procession, to be giddy, to move in a circle, to dance, to reel to and fro.

Leviticus 23:41 HCSB You are to celebrate it as a festival to the LORD seven days each year. This is a permanent statute for you throughout your generations; you must celebrate it in the seventh month.
1 Samuel 30:16 HCSB So he led him, and there were the Amalekites, spread out over the entire area, eating, drinking, and celebrating because of the great amount of plunder they had taken from the land of the Philistines and the land of Judah.
Psalms 42:4 HCSB I remember this as I pour out my heart: how I walked with many, leading the festive procession to the house of God, with joyful and thankful shouts.

Chuwl - to twist or whirl in a circular spiral manner, to dance

Judges 21:23 HCSB The Benjaminites did this and took the number of women they needed from the dancers they caught. They went back to their own inheritance, rebuilt their cities, and lived in them.

Dagal – to flaunt, to raise a flag, to be conspicuous, set up with banners

Psalms 20:5 HCSB Let us shout for joy at your victory and lift the banner in the name of our God. May the LORD fulfill all your requests.

Halijkah – 1979; a procession or march, a caravan: -company.

Psalms 68:24 HCSB People have seen Your procession, God, the procession of my God, my King, in the sanctuary.

Karar – 3769; to dance and whirl about.

2 Samuel 6:14 HCSB David was dancing with all his might before the LORD wearing a linen ephod.

Kara – tobend the knee, to sink, to prostrate, bow down self, bring down low

Psalms 22:29 HCSB All who prosper on earth will eat and bow down; all those who go down to the dust will kneel before Him--even the one who cannot preserve his life.
Psalms 95:6 HCSB Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.

Macha – to rub or strike the hands together (in exultation), clap

Psalms 98:8-9 HCSB Let the rivers clap their hands; let the mountains shout together for joy (9) before the LORD, for He is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world righteously and the peoples fairly.

Machowl – 4234; a round dance (Chowl; whirling particles, as sand).
Exodus 15:20; 1 Samuel 18:6; Psalm 30:11; 149:3; 150:4; Jeremiah 31:13

Machowlah – (or mechowlah) 4246; a dance:-company dances.

Exodus 15:20 HCSB Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron's sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing.
1 Samuel 18:6 HCSB As David was returning from killing the Philistine, the women came out from all the cities of Israel to meet King Saul, singing and dancing with tambourines, with shouts of joy, and with three-stringed instruments.
1 Samuel 21:11 HCSB But Achish's servants said to him, "Isn't this David, the king of the land? Don't they sing about him during their dances: Saul has killed his thousands, but David his tens of thousands?"
1 Samuel 29:5 HCSB Isn't this the David they sing about during their dances: Saul has killed his thousands, but David his tens of thousands?"
Jeremiah 31:5 HCSB You will plant vineyards again on the mountains of Samaria; the planters will plant and will enjoy the fruit.

Paras – to break apart, disperse, break, chop in pieces, lay open, scatter, spread (abroad, forth, selves, out), stretch (forth, out)

Psalms 143:6 HCSB I spread out my hands to You; I am like parched land before You. Selah

Patsach – to break out (in joyful sound), break forth into joy, make a loud noise

Psalms 98:4 HCSB Shout to the LORD, all the earth; be jubilant, shout for joy, and sing.
Psalms 98:6 HCSB With trumpets and the blast of the ram's horn shout triumphantly in the presence of the LORD, our King.
Psalms 100:1 HCSB A psalm of thanksgiving. Shout triumphantly to the LORD, all the earth.

Pazaz – 6339; to solidify (as if by refining); to be made strong; to leap, to spring, as if separating the limbs.

2 Samuel 6:16 HCSB As the ark of the LORD was entering the city of David, Saul's daughter Michal looked down from the window and saw King David leaping and dancing before the LORD, and she despised him in her heart.

Raqad – 7540; to leap, to stamp, to spring about wildly with joy.

1 Chronicles 15:29 HCSB (29) As the ark of the covenant of the LORD was entering the city of David, Saul's daughter Michal looked down from the window and saw King David dancing and celebrating, and she despised him in her heart.
Ecclesiastes 3:4 HCSB a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance;

Shachah -7812; to depress or prostrate one’s self in homage or loyalty to God, bow down, fall down flat

Psalms 29:2 HCSB Give the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.
Psalms 66:4 HCSB All the earth will worship You and sing praise to You. They will sing praise to Your name." Selah
Psalms 95:6 HCSB Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.

Todah - 8426; an extension of the hand, adoration, a choir of worshipers, confession, sacrifice of praise, thanksgiving

Psalms 50:14 HCSB Sacrifice a thank offering to God, and pay your vows to the Most High.
Psalms 50:23 HCSB Whoever sacrifices a thank offering honors Me, and whoever orders his conduct, I will show him the salvation of God."
Psalms 69:30 HCSB I will praise God's name with song and exalt Him with thanksgiving.
Psalms 100:4 HCSB Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.

Yadah – 3034; to know, hold out the hand in acknowledgment, to throw (a stone or arrow) at or away (in order to indicate or point something out), to revere or worship (with extended hands, praise thankful, thanksgiving)

Psalms 32:5 HCSB Then I acknowledged my sin to You and did not conceal my iniquity. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD," and You took away the guilt of my sin. Selah
Psalms 33:2 HCSB Praise the LORD with the lyre; make music to Him with a ten-stringed harp.
Psalms 18:49 HCSB Therefore I will praise You, LORD, among the nations; I will sing about Your name.

II. Emotional Worship

Alaz – 5937; to rejoice, to exult, to jump for joy. Most often translated "exult" or "rejoice".

Psalms 28:7 HCSB The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart rejoices, and I praise Him with my song.
Psalms 68:4 HCSB Sing to God! Sing praises to His name. Exalt Him who rides on the clouds--His name is Yahweh--and rejoice before Him.
Psalms 96:11 HCSB Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea and all that fills it resound.
Psalms 98:4 HCSB Shout to the LORD, all the earth; be jubilant, shout for joy, and sing.
Psalms 149:5 HCSB Let the godly celebrate in triumphal glory; let them shout for joy on their beds.

Anah – to eye or to heed, pay attention, to respond, to begin to speak, to sing, shout, testify, announce, give, account, afflict

Psalms 147:7 HCSB Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; play the lyre to our God,

Calal – to mound up, exalt, reflex, to oppose, cast up, exalt (self), extol, make plain, raise up

Psalms 68:4 HCSB Sing to God! Sing praises to His name. Exalt Him who rides on the clouds--His name is Yahweh--and rejoice before Him.

Caphar – to score with a mark, to inscribe, to enumerate, recount, celebrate, show forth, speak, talk, tell

Psalms 9:14 HCSB so that I may declare all Your praises. I will rejoice in Your salvation within the gates of Daughter Zion.
Psalms 79:13 HCSB Then we, Your people, the sheep of Your pasture, will thank You forever; we will declare Your praise to generation after generation.
Isaiah 43:21 HCSB The people I formed for Myself will declare My praise.

Gadal – to cause to be large, increase in estate, honor or pride, advance, boast, bring up, exceed, excellent, lift up, magnify, promote, speak proudly of

Psalms 34:3 HCSB Proclaim with me the LORD's greatness; let us exalt His name together.
Psalms 69:30 HCSB I will praise God's name with song and exalt Him with thanksgiving.
Psalms 70:4 HCSB Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; let those who love Your salvation continually say, "God is great!"

Giyl – a revolution (of time and age), exceeding joy, gladness, greatly, rejoice

Psalms 32:11 HCSB Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones; shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Psalms 65:12 HCSB The wilderness pastures overflow, and the hills are robed with joy.

Gol – to call aloud, a voice or sound, bleating, crackling, cry, fame, lightness, lowing, noise, proclaiming, sing, sound, thunder, voice, yell

Psalms 95:1-2 HCSB Come, let us shout joyfully to the LORD, shout triumphantly to the rock of our salvation! (2) Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout triumphantly to Him in song.
Psalms 98:4 HCSB Shout to the LORD, all the earth; be jubilant, shout for joy, and sing.

Guwl – 1523; to leap for joy, to rejoice, to tremble accompanied by the leaping or palpitations of the heart

Psalms 32:11 HCSB Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones; shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Psalms 35:9 HCSB Then I will rejoice in the LORD; I will delight in His deliverance.
Psalms 48:11 HCSB Mount Zion is glad. The towns of Judah rejoice because of Your judgments.
Psalms 96:11 HCSB Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea and all that fills it resound.
Psalms 118:24 HCSB This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Isaiah 25:9 HCSB On that day it will be said, "Look, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He has saved us. This is the LORD; we have waited for Him. Let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation."
Isaiah 65:18-19 HCSB Then be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating; for I will create Jerusalem to be a joy, and its people to be a delight. (19) I will rejoice in Jerusalem and be glad in My people. The sound of weeping and crying will no longer be heard in her.
Zephaniah 3:17 HCSB The LORD your God is among you, a warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will bring you quietness with His love. He will delight in you with shouts of joy."

Hallal – 1984; to shine, to praise, to make a show or rave about, to glory in or boast upon, to be clamorously foolish about your adoration of God

1 Chronicles 16:25 HCSB (25) For the LORD is great and is highly praised; He is feared above all gods.
1 Chronicles 16:36 HCSB (36) May the LORD, the God of Israel, be praised from everlasting to everlasting." Then all the people said, "Amen" and "Praise the LORD."
Psalms 22:23 HCSB You who fear the LORD, praise Him! All you descendants of Jacob, honor Him! All you descendants of Israel, revere Him!
Psalms 44:8 HCSB We boast in God all day long; we will praise Your name forever. Selah
Psalms 63:5 HCSB You satisfy me as with rich food; my mouth will praise You with joyful lips.
Psalms 149:1 HCSB Hallelujah! Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise in the assembly of the godly.
Psalms 150:1-6 HCSB Hallelujah! Praise God in His sanctuary. Praise Him in His mighty heavens. (2) Praise Him for His powerful acts; praise Him for His abundant greatness. (3) Praise Him with trumpet blast; praise Him with harp and lyre. (4) Praise Him with tambourine and dance; praise Him with flute and strings. (5) Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with clashing cymbals. (6) Let everything that breathes praise the LORD. Hallelujah!

Hilluwl – a sense of rejoicing, a celebration of thanksgiving for harvest, merry, praise

Leviticus 19:24 HCSB In the fourth year all its fruit must be consecrated as a praise offering to the LORD.

Kabed – numerous, rich, honorable, to make weighty

Psalms 22:23 HCSB You who fear the LORD, praise Him! All you descendants of Jacob, honor Him! All you descendants of Israel, revere Him!
Psalms 86:9 HCSB All the nations You have made will come and bow down before You, Lord, and will honor Your name.
Psalms 86:12 HCSB I will praise You with all my heart, Lord my God, and will honor Your name forever.

Kabod – splendor, copiousness, glorious, glory, honorable

Psalms 29:1 HCSB A Davidic psalm. Give the LORD--you heavenly beings--give the LORD glory and strength.
Psalms 66:2 HCSB Sing the glory of His name; make His praise glorious.
Psalms 96:8 HCSB Ascribe to the LORD the glory of His name; bring an offering and enter His courts.

Nacah – to lift, exalt, extol, hold, up, honorable, magnify, regard, respect, yield

Psalms 28:2 HCSB Listen to the sound of my pleading when I cry to You for help, when I lift up my hands toward Your holy sanctuary.
Psalms 63:4 HCSB So I will praise You as long as I live; at Your name, I will lift up my hands.
Psalms 134:2 HCSB Lift up your hands in the holy place, and praise the LORD!

Ranan - 7441; to creak, to emit a stridulous sound, to shout aloud for joy

Psalms 33:1 HCSB Rejoice in the LORD, you righteous ones; praise from the upright is beautiful.
Psalms 98:4 HCSB Shout to the LORD, all the earth; be jubilant, shout for joy, and sing.
Proverbs 29:6 HCSB An evil man is caught by sin, but the righteous one sings and rejoices.

Rowmam – exaltation, praise, be extolled

Psalms 66:17 HCSB I cried out to Him with my mouth, and praise was on my tongue.

Samach – to brighten up, cheer up, make glad, make merry

Psalms 31:7 HCSB I will rejoice and be glad in Your faithful love because You have seen my affliction. You have known the troubles of my life
Psalms 48:11 HCSB Mount Zion is glad. The towns of Judah rejoice because of Your judgments.
Psalms 105:3 HCSB Honor His holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.

Sameach – blithe or gleeful, glad, joyful, making merry, hearted, rejoice

Psalms 96:11 HCSB Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea and all that fills it resound.

Sason – cheerfulness, welcome, gladness, joy, rejoicing, mirth

Psalms 119:111 HCSB I have Your decrees as a heritage forever; indeed, they are the joy of my heart.

Suws – to be bright, cheerful, be glad, make mirth, rejoice

Psalms 35:9 HCSB Then I will rejoice in the LORD; I will delight in His deliverance.
Psalms 40:16 HCSB Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; let those who love Your salvation continually say, The LORD is great!"
Psalms 119:162 HCSB I rejoice over Your promise like one who finds vast treasure.

III. Musical Worship

Mangiynah – a satire, music

Lamentations 3:63 HCSB When they sit and when they rise, look, I am mocked by their songs.

Massa – a burden, an utterance chiefly a doom, especially singing, prophecy, song, tribute

Habakkuk 1:1 HCSB The oracle that Habakkuk the prophet saw.
Cp Habakkuk 3:19 HCSB Yahweh my Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like those of a deer and enables me to walk on mountain heights! For the choir director: on stringed instruments.

Mizmowr – instrumental music, a poem set to notes, the word most frequently used for titles of the Psalms

Psalms 3:1 HCSB A psalm of David when he fled from his son Absalom. LORD, how my foes increase! There are many who attack me.
Psalms 13:1 HCSB For the choir director. A Davidic psalm. LORD, how long will You continually forget me? How long will You hide Your face from me?
Psalms 15:1 HCSB A Davidic psalm. LORD, who can dwell in Your tent? Who can live on Your holy mountain?

Nagan – to thrum, to beat a tune with the fingers, to play a stringed instrument, to make music, sing to stringed instruments.

Psalms 33:3 HCSB Sing a new song to Him; play skillfully on the strings, with a joyful shout.

Natsach – to glitter from afar, to be eminent (as a superintendent), especially of the temple services and it's' music, to be permanent, excel, chief musician (singer), overseer, set forward, used in the title of the Psalms.

Psalms 4:1 HCSB For the choir director: with stringed instruments. A Davidic psalm. Answer me when I call, God, who vindicates me. You freed me from affliction; be gracious to me and hear my prayer.
Psalms 5:1 HCSB For the choir director: with the flutes. A Davidic psalm. Listen to my words, LORD; consider my sighing.
Psalms 8:1 HCSB For the choir director: on the Gittith. A Davidic psalm. LORD, our Lord, how magnificent is Your name throughout the earth! You have covered the heavens with Your majesty.

Negiynathb – instrumental music, a stringed instrument, a poem set to music, an epigram

Lamentations 5:14 HCSB The elders have left the city gate, the young men, their music.

Renanah – a shout (for joy), joyful voice, singing, triumphing

Psalms 100:2 HCSB Serve the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.

Rinnah – a shrill sound, shout of grief or joy, gladness, proclamation, rejoicing, shouting, triumph, singing

Psalms 107:22 HCSB Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and announce His works with shouts of joy.
Psalms 118:15 HCSB There are shouts of joy and victory in the tents of the righteous: "The LORD's right hand strikes with power!
Psalms 126:6 HCSB Though one goes along weeping, carrying the bag of seed, he will surely come back with shouts of joy, carrying his sheaves.

Ruwa – 7321; to shout; to split the ears with sound; to shout (for alarm or joy); to sound an alarm, blow an alarm (associated with trumpets). Make a joyful noise, shout for joy

Joshua 6:5 HCSB When there is a prolonged blast of the horn and you hear its sound, have all the people give a mighty shout. Then the city wall will collapse, and the people will advance, each man straight ahead."
Joshua 6:20 HCSB So the people shouted, and the trumpets sounded. When they heard the blast of the trumpet, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. The people advanced into the city, each man straight ahead, and they captured the city.
Psalms 47:1 HCSB For the choir director. A psalm of the sons of Korah. Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with a jubilant cry.
Psalms 65:13 HCSB The pastures are clothed with flocks, and the valleys covered with grain. They shout in triumph; indeed, they sing.
Zephaniah 3:14 HCSB Sing for joy, Daughter Zion; shout loudly, Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, Daughter Jerusalem!

Shabach – 7623; to praise, to address in a loud voice, as in triumph. Loud adoration, a shout, proclaiming with a loud voice (unashamed), to glory, triumph, power, a testimony of praise

Psalms 63:3 HCSB My lips will glorify You because Your faithful love is better than life.
Psalms 106:47 HCSB Save us, LORD our God, and gather us from the nations, so that we may give thanks to Your holy name and rejoice in Your praise.
Psalms 117:1 HCSB Praise the LORD, all nations! Glorify Him, all peoples!
Psalms 145:4 HCSB One generation will declare Your works to the next and will proclaim Your mighty acts.

Shaown – an uproar (as a rushing), destruction, noise, pomp, rushing, tumult

Psalms 66:1 HCSB For the choir director. A song. A psalm. Shout joyfully to God, all the earth!
Psalms 81:1 HCSB For the choir director: on the Gittith. Of Asaph. Sing for joy to God our strength; shout in triumph to the God of Jacob.

Shebach – adore, praise, to adulate

Daniel 2:23 HCSB I offer thanks and praise to You, God of my fathers, because You have given me wisdom and power. And now You have let me know what we asked of You, for You have let us know the king's mystery.
Daniel 4:34 HCSB But at the end of those days, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven, and my sanity returned to me. Then I praised the Most High and honored and glorified Him who lives forever: For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation.

Shiryah – a song, singing, musical song

Psalms 96:1 HCSB Sing a new song to the LORD; sing to the LORD, all the earth.
Psalms 98:1 HCSB A psalm. Sing a new song to the LORD, for He has performed wonders; His right hand and holy arm have won Him victory.

Shuwr – 7892;to stroll singing and playing as a minstrel,to sing, singer (man or woman)

Psalms 33:3 HCSB Sing a new song to Him; play skillfully on the strings, with a joyful shout.
Psalms 144:9 HCSB God, I will sing a new song to You; I will play on a ten-stringed harp for You--
2 Chronicles 29:28 HCSB The whole assembly was worshiping, singing the song, and blowing the trumpets--all of this continued until the burnt offering was completed.

Taga – to clatter, slap hands together, clang an instrument, to become bondsman by hand clasping, blow a trumpet

Psalms 47:1 HCSB For the choir director. A psalm of the sons of Korah. Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout to God with a jubilant cry.

Tehillah – 8416; to sing hallal (the root for hallelujah), a new song, a hymn of spontaneous praise glorifying God in song

Psalms 34:1 HCSB I will praise the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips.
Psalms 40:3 HCSB He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the LORD.
Psalms 149:1 HCSB Hallelujah! Sing to the LORD a new song, His praise in the assembly of the godly.

Teruwah – an acclamation of joy or a battle cry, clangor of trumpets, sounding of an alarm

Psalms 27:6 HCSB Then my head will be high above my enemies around me; I will offer sacrifices in His tent with shouts of joy. I will sing and make music to the LORD.

Zamar - 2167; to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument i.e. play upon it, to make music accompanied by the voice, to celebrate in song and music, give praise, sing forth praises, psalms

Psalms 66:2 HCSB Sing the glory of His name; make His praise glorious.
Psalms 71:22 HCSB Therefore, with a lute I will praise You for Your faithfulness, my God; I will sing to You with a harp, Holy One of Israel.
Psalms 144:9 HCSB God, I will sing a new song to You; I will play on a ten-stringed harp for You--

Zammar – an instrumental musician, singer

Ezra 7:24 HCSB Be advised that tribute, duty, and land tax must not be imposed on any priests, Levites, singers, doorkeepers, temple servants, or other servants of this house of God.

Zemar – instrumental music

Daniel 3:7 HCSB Therefore, when all the people heard the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, and every kind of music, people of every nation and language fell down and worshiped the gold statue that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up.
Daniel 3:10 HCSB You as king have issued a decree that everyone who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, drum, and every kind of music must fall down and worship the gold statue.

Zemirah – a song to be accompanied by instrumental music

Psalms 95:2 HCSB Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout triumphantly to Him in song.

Zimrah – a musical piece, song to be accompanied by an instrument, melody, psalm

Psalms 81:2 HCSB Lift up a song--play the tambourine, the melodious lyre, and the harp.
Psalms 98:5 HCSB Sing to the LORD with the lyre, with the lyre and melodious song.

May We Use Incense in Worship?

Hashem ordered His people to make incense a regular part of their worship experience on numerous occasions[1] going so far as to actually give the specific ingredients to a formula that was to be strictly dedicated to tabernacle use.[2] He even gave the exact dimensions and materials that were to go in an altar of incense.[3] Not only was incense part and parcel with both the tabernacle and the temple, but offerings of incense were considered a normal act of worship.[4]

However, no unauthorized person outside of the Levites could actually burn the incense in offering to the Lord.[5] Jeroboam did not heed this command, choosing to make up his own festivals and rituals and offering incense of his own making on an altar in Bethel[6] and found himself roundly rebuked by the Lord for his hubris.[7]

His attitude of “self-made religion” was taken up by the people who started offering incense in their own ways and places.[8] Because they weren’t obeying they ended up worshipping gods of their own making and reaped the consequences of their foolish pride.[9]

King Uzziah was also so lifted up in pride because of his power and acted unfaithfully against the Lord his God by going into the sanctuary to burn incense on the altar. The priests tried to warn him but he grew enraged when they said only descendents of Aaron could offer the incense and was immediately struck with a skin disease.[10] In contrast, King Hezekiah was blessed for recognizing the Levites’ place as the “burners of incense[11] and for systematically removing all other forms of incense worship.[12]

Clearly incense was not completely forbidden even to the Old Covenant godly for “oil and incense bring joy to the heart”[13] but that was not within the context of tabernacle or temple worship. And obviously even incense burned in the temple by Levites was abominable to the Lord God if the people’s hearts weren’t right.[14] Interestingly, it was during the offering of incense that the birth of our Master was announced.[15]

However, under the New Covenant there is no longer a distinction between Jews and Goyim among the believers[16] and we are now all part of the “royal priesthood.”[17] The veil separating the Holy of Holies that prevented all but the High Priest has been torn down[18] and we may now all boldly approach our Father’s throne.[19] Though Hashem primarily considers our prayers as incense before the Lord[20] I don’t think that anything prevents believers from incorporating incense in their daily or corporate worship as long as they don’t start focusing on the externals to the detriment of their hearts.

[1] Exodus 25:2-6; 30:1-8; 31:11; 35:8, 15, 28; 40:27; Leviticus 16:12-13; Numbers 16:17; Deuteronomy 33:10
[2] Exodus 30:34-38
[3] Exodus 30:1 cp 37:25
[4] Numbers 7:14, 20, 26, 32, 38, 44, 50, 56, 62, 68, 74, 80, 86; 2 Chronicles 2:6
[5] Numbers 16:40; 1 Samuel 2:28; 1 Chronicles 6:49; 23:13
[6] 1 Kings 12:33
[7] 1 Kings 13:1-2
[8] 1 Kings 22:43; 2 Kings 12:3; 14:4; 15:4, 35; 16:4; 17:11; 18:4; 2 Chronicles 13:9-11; Isaiah 65:3, 7; 66:3; Jeremiah 1:16; 11:13; 18:15
[9] 2 Kings 22:17; 23:5; cp Romans 1:21-23
[10] 2 Chronicles 26:14-21
[11] 2 Chronicles 29:1-11
[12] 2 Chronicles 30:14; 32:12; 34:4, 7
[13] Proverbs 27:9
[14] Isaiah 1:13
[15] Luke 1:9-11
[16] Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:11
[17] 1 Peter 2:9
[18] Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:45
[19] Hebrews 4:16
[20] Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8; 8:3-5