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Communion, Christians celebrate their faith by partaking in bread and wine, symbolizing the body and blood of Jesus Christ, as taught in the Bible and cherished in their holy religion. communion, holy

In our last content, we explored how Jesus is the Bread of Life. Jesus used this analogy to teach the people following Him that they must depend entirely on Him. We must “consume” Him by faith — trusting in Him as our source of life. This analogy also stood in contrast to the people’s question, “What must we do to be saved?” Jesus declared Himself the Bread of Life to reveal the difference between grace and works. We are saved only by grace; no work can earn salvation. To “do the work of the Father” means simply to believe in His Son. You can read the full content here: <a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-bread-of-life--grace-vs--works" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-bread-of-life--grace-vs--works">The Bread of Life — Grace vs Works</a>.To fully understand this “Bread of Life” analogy, we will explore another usage of bread in the Old Testament — the Lechem HaPanim, also called the Bread of the Presence.“Take the finest flour and bake twelve loaves of bread, using two-tenths of an ephah for each loaf. Arrange them in two stacks, six in each stack, on the table of pure gold before the LORD. By each stack put some pure incense as a memorial portion to represent the bread and to be a food offering presented to the LORD. This bread is to be set out before the LORD regularly, Sabbath after Sabbath, on behalf of the Israelites, as a lasting covenant. It belongs to Aaron and his sons, who are to eat it in the sanctuary area, because it is a most holy part of their perpetual share of the food offerings presented to the LORD.” — Leviticus 24 : 5–9 (NIV) “Put the bread of the Presence on this table to be before me at all times.” — Exodus 25 : 30 (NIV)As Scripture declares, “the Law and the Prophets” all pointed to Christ. We are not bound to practice any part of the Law literally or symbolically because Jesus fulfilled it completely.<h3>The Bread of the Presence as a Foreshadow of Christ.</h3><figure id="figure-gvz1a90x2mh885nil"><img id="gvz1a90x2mh885nil" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bKSSyePCvV5VneEiUNIt5BBlRsUUuuUzzmTyrd5e9GcexA29jL0kFMzgcVAFbDE.png" alt="Sacred ceremony of Communion, Christians express their faith by partaking in holy bread, deepening their spiritual connection with God within the church. communion, religion, christian, faith, holy." title="Sacred ceremony of Communion, Christians express their faith by partaking in holy bread, deepening their spiritual connection with God within the church. communion, religion, christian, faith, holy." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bKSSyePCvV5VneEiUNIt5BBlRsUUuuUzzmTyrd5e9GcexA29jL0kFMzgcVAFbDE.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><ul><li>The Lechem HaPanim served as a memorial food offering to the LORD — a prophetic shadow pointing to Jesus, who would later offer Himself as the true sacrifice to God for our salvation.</li></ul>“And walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” — Ephesians 5 : 2 (NIV)<ul><li>The Bread of the Presence was continually set before the LORD in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple. This constant presence prefigured one of Jesus’ divine ministries — His continual intercession before the Father. Not only was Jesus the perfect offering for our sins, but He also remains in God’s presence, interceding for us.</li></ul>“Because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” — Hebrews 7 : 24–25 (NIV)“For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made with human hands that was only a copy of the true one; he entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence.” — Hebrews 9 : 24 (NIV)<ul><li>Lechem HaPanim and the Everlasting Covenant</li></ul>“… Sabbath after Sabbath, on behalf of the Israelites, as a lasting covenant.” — Leviticus 24 : 8 (NIV)While many ordinances of the Torah were temporary, this “lasting covenant” symbolically pointed forward to Jesus — the true Everlasting Covenant.“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will.” — Hebrews 13 : 20–21 (NKJV)<ul><li>The Bread Belongs to the Priests </li></ul>“It belongs to Aaron and his sons, who are to eat it in the sanctuary area.” — Leviticus 24 : 9 (NIVThe Bread of the Presence was eaten by Aaron and his sons — the priesthood of Israel. This foreshadowed our participation in Christ, the true Bread of Life. The Church, the spiritual and the rea Israel, partakes of His body by faith. And our role is simple; Belief in Jesus. (Jesus answered, ‘The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.’” (John 6:29))<figure id="figure-c364s9un4imh88fj24"><img id="c364s9un4imh88fj24" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/160585076/photo/vienna-mosaic-of-last-supper-by-giacomo-raffaelli.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=vumEshefdbAU-5cvDbqQspwk0mIwNAlNlxV2I70AGRM=" alt="Vienna - Mosaic of Last supper by Giacomo Raffaelli" title="Vienna - Mosaic of Last supper by Giacomo Raffaelli" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/160585076/photo/vienna-mosaic-of-last-supper-by-giacomo-raffaelli.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=vumEshefdbAU-5cvDbqQspwk0mIwNAlNlxV2I70AGRM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Jesus declared this before His crucifixion, foreshadowing His body given for us (as sacrifice and for consumption). Just as the Lechem HaPanim was made for Aaron and his sons, Christ’s body was given for all who believe.“And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’” — Luke 22 : 19–20 (NIV) The goal of this verse was not to instruct us to pretend as if we are actually eating the flesh of Jesus.&nbsp;In Conclusion: The Bread and the Sabbath“Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry? He entered the house of God and, taking the consecrated bread, he ate what is lawful only for priests to eat… Then Jesus said to them, ‘The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.’” — Luke 6 : 3–5 (NIV)The Lechem HaPanim was the bread offered to God in the Old Testament — a shadow of Christ, who offered Himself to save us. It was continually placed before God, just as Jesus now stands continually in the presence of the Father, interceding on our behalf. The bread was eaten by Aaron and his sons; David once ate that same holy bread&nbsp; (against the law)— perhaps as a prophetic act of faith, foreshadowing the grace that would come through Christ.The message remains the same throughout Scripture: we are saved only by believing in Jesus.“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3 : 16 (NIV)Note: We encourage you to do your own study on this topic and let the Holy Spirit be the teacher .

The Bread of the Presence and the Shadow of Christ

John 6 give us some very interesting conversations that can potentially shed light on the relationship between Grace and Works. Love is the very nature of God. His Grace is the expression of His Love. While this became very clear when God came in human flesh as Jesus Christ, Grace has always been the nature of God in the Old Testament. This is why we have to properly dissect the Old Testament text through the lens of Jesus.<figure id="figure-0u2g9nhabmg2vknwf"><img id="0u2g9nhabmg2vknwf" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cI7v76i3T1o8sPSvWaPqeZESFRdisk7H3qyPFEd7oo4IpTLTFCMiiG8MkEqi3nZ.png" alt="bride with a veil on the hotel balcony in a wedding dress, copy space, free space" title="bride with a veil on the hotel balcony in a wedding dress, copy space, free space" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2cI7v76i3T1o8sPSvWaPqeZESFRdisk7H3qyPFEd7oo4IpTLTFCMiiG8MkEqi3nZ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>In John 6:1–15, Jesus miraculously fed about five thousand men, which likely means over ten thousand people when women and children are included, using only five small barley loaves and two fish. In John 6:16–24, He walked on water while the same crowd He had fed continued seeking Him. By John 6:24, the crowd finally caught up with Him, and this is where the deeper conversation between Jesus and the people began.<h3>LESSON 1: Jesus the Bread of Life</h3>Jesus uses bread to make the analogy about what we all need to do to be saved. Since He had just fed them, bread was the perfect analogy to drive home the point about Works vs. Grace.“Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” (John 6:27)Jesus had just fed the five thousand (John 6:1–15), and the crowd followed Him seeking more bread. He uses this moment to shift their focus from temporary, physical food to Himself—the Bread of Life. He was telling them: stop working for bread that spoils but work for the real Bread standing right in front of them.This clearly wasn' what they were expecting. The conversation continues.<h3>&nbsp;LESSON 2: The Work of God</h3>“Then they asked him, ‘What must we do to do the works God requires?’” (John 6:28)<figure id="figure-zdhjd6nn1gmg2xfsln"><img id="zdhjd6nn1gmg2xfsln" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10hl0Jc5CxU8tcUgMIcfR6k2rxhBjPws3T5TlrzpzlXkEzgvX7MHG2UUMEGx1N7n.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/10hl0Jc5CxU8tcUgMIcfR6k2rxhBjPws3T5TlrzpzlXkEzgvX7MHG2UUMEGx1N7n.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>After Jesus told them about not working for food, they decided to ask about what they must do to do the works of God. They were still on the theme of works and legalism. To them, they have to do something. Keep in mind that Jesus had just fed them without them paying a dime for it. Jesus responded again:“Jesus answered, ‘The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.’” (John 6:29)In other words, All you have to do is BELIEVE. No "doing."&nbsp;If you grew up in church like I did, you have probably seen different versions of what it means to do the work of God: preaching the Gospel, joining a ministries within the church, doing missionary work, etc. But Jesus gave a very clear and unambiguous answer: believing in Jesus Christ is the work of God.This is the definition of Grace. All we have to do is believe.Does this invalidate the other “works” that we do in the kingdom? Of course not. But Jesus makes it very clear: the work that God requires is to believe.<h3>LESSON 3: Jesus the Fulfillment of the Law</h3>“So they asked him, ‘What sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written: He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” (John 6:30–31)In their continued resistance to the message of Grace, they asked Jesus for a sign.&nbsp; Just "believing" was NOT enough. They needed a sign to believe in Him. In their request, they referenced the Old Testament manna. Unfortunately, this is still true today—2,000+ years later. Faith in Jesus often still has to be tied to anointing oil, holy water, Holy Communion, water baptism, and all kinds of symbolism. Otherwise, people will not believe.Jesus responded:“Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” (John 6:32–33)He essentially told them that He is the real manna—the true bread from Heaven.<figure id="figure-nzvdmkpq1tmg2x49tr"><img id="nzvdmkpq1tmg2x49tr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dpelYer06FN1Zm62XkKakY5v3WdQfekVC6ZW4T7Hz93WmAZgaddvL6PFIElJpKR.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dpelYer06FN1Zm62XkKakY5v3WdQfekVC6ZW4T7Hz93WmAZgaddvL6PFIElJpKR.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> The manna in the wilderness was a prophetic expression of the coming of God in human flesh. The Old Testament was the type and shadow of the true reality. The true reality is Jesus Christ.“Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But as I told you, you have seen me and still you do not believe.’” (John 6:35–36)From Jesus’ own words, the way to eat the Bread of Life is by believing in Him. This is Grace. It is not by law, not by signs, and not by works.<h3>In Conclusion: Works vs. Grace</h3>“I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, yet they died. But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which anyone may eat and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” (John 6:48–51) We encourage you to read the whole chapter. Jesus as the Bread of Life is a central theme in the Christian faith and is often referenced during Holy Communion. The context of eating “His Flesh” is always about having faith in Him. It was an analogy Jesus used because He had just fed thousands of people. He used that analogy as well during passover feast.&nbsp;We must resist the instinct to complicate it. We are children of the Most High God. We do not live by rituals, nor do we imitate those who practice them.Often, resistance to the message of Grace comes from legalism and works. We see all of these in this conversation. Faith in Jesus is enough. That was Jesus’ message. As simple as it is, humanity has resisted the message of Grace from the beginning—and we still resist it today. All we have to do Believe.&nbsp;“Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me.” (John 6:57)We eat to survive. We depend on food for life. In the same way, Jesus depended on the Father, and we must depend on Him to live. He has to be our food. We have to Feed on Him (as said in the above verse) by having faith in Him. That is His will, and that is the will of the Father—for us all to have perfect union with Him. It is and it was never about works.“In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.” (John 14:20)

The Bread of Life: Grace vs. Works

The church must move beyond symbolism, and the most accepted one today is baptism. Most Christians know baptism does not save—we are saved by believing in Jesus as the Son of God (John 3:16; Romans 10:9–10) and by His grace (Ephesians 2:8–9). Yet many still see baptism as important, a symbol of dying and rising with Christ, and a way of declaring publicly that we belong to Him—even though it does not bring salvation.BUT, what does the Bible say?<h3>What is Water Baptism</h3>We often think the word Baptism is a spiritual term. It is not. It is derived from a Greek word báptisma which is derived from the verb baptízō. It means to dip, immerse, or submerge in water. Water baptism as we practice in recent decades is a public declaration of our faith in Jesus. Romans 6:3–4 (ESV). The word baptism originated in the New Testament texts by John the Baptist.Mark 1:4–5 "John appeared, baptizing in the wilderness and proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.&nbsp;But was John the creator of this practice? NO.<h3>Mikveh and Ritual Immersion in the Law</h3><figure id="figure-w5zo4m2k05mfik1s8o"><img id="w5zo4m2k05mfik1s8o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bKsO7a0t107DHPotRi6o7EbVhOpBrY1GerSlmI1eu0kH0MoGMBaw3iQ8SpPsDZm.jpg" alt="A priest illuminates the water in the font before baptism." title="A priest illuminates the water in the font before baptism." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bKsO7a0t107DHPotRi6o7EbVhOpBrY1GerSlmI1eu0kH0MoGMBaw3iQ8SpPsDZm.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> A Mikveh is a Jewish ritual bath used for ceremonial purification. The word comes from Hebrew, meaning a “collection” or “gathering” of water. According to Jewish law, a mikveh must contain natural or “living” water, such as rainwater or a spring, to symbolize cleansing and renewal. People used it for purification after certain life events, before worship, or before entering the Temple.Here are examples of applications of Mikveh in Jewish culture:<ul><li>Ritual Purification (Taharah): For anyone who became ceremonially unclean (e.g., touching a corpse, skin diseases, bodily discharges). Leviticus 15; Numbers 19.</li><li>Priestly Cleansing: Priests (and especially the High Priest) had to wash in a mikvah before performing Temple service. Example: Leviticus 16:23–24(Day of Atonement).</li><li>Women’s Purification: After menstruation or childbirth, women immersed in a mikvah before resuming normal life and worship. Example: Leviticus 12, Leviticus 15:19–24.</li><li>Conversion to Judaism: Converts to Judaism underwent immersion in a mikvah to symbolize spiritual cleansing and entering covenant life.</li><li>Pre-Worship Preparation: Jewish men often immersed before major festivals or before entering the Temple, as a way of approaching God in purity.</li><li>Sacred Objects: Utensils acquired from non-Jews (like pots, pans, or tools) were immersed in a mikvah to be ritually purified before use</li></ul>By the time of Ezra/Nehemiah and the rebuilding of the Temple, ritual purity was taken very seriously. Archaeologists have found dozens of mikva’ot (ritual baths) around Jerusalem, especially near the Temple Mount, showing people immersed before entering the Temple.<figure id="figure-cs5xxs3prmfj1pr4u"><img id="cs5xxs3prmfj1pr4u" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aVgQbiMQQprz4AGYrZioYnKAcugl7BYqFsFRO2X2qT2c398obfNZxYjmiGg1n7R.jpg" alt="Epiphany. Church props" title="Epiphany. Church props" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aVgQbiMQQprz4AGYrZioYnKAcugl7BYqFsFRO2X2qT2c398obfNZxYjmiGg1n7R.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Immersion in “living waters” was already a well-developed Jewish institution long before and during the time of Jesus.Contrary to popular belief among non-Jewish Christians, water baptism as a form of purification was not started by John the Baptist. It is a playbook from the Torah Law that was introduced by Moses. It was a purification ritual. The people ad the Pharisees clearly willingly participated in John’s water baptism because they knew what he was doing.Why Was Jesus Baptized?<ul><li>We addressed this <a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-significance-of-jesus--baptism" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-significance-of-jesus--baptism" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. It was His symbolic ordination into His earthly priesthood role.</li><li>It could have also been Jesus communicating to us that all humans must be purified to be worthy for His Kingdom.</li></ul><h2>Mikveh (Water Baptism) &amp; Jesus</h2>The Law and the Prophets were all pointing to Jesus. This was communicated on the Mountain of Transfiguration when Moses and Elijah disappeared. The Father spoke, saying: “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him.”Hebrews 10:1. "For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities,...Colossians 2:17 "These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ." (ESV)Jesus is the Substance of the text in the Old Testament. Jesus said this Himself:John 5:39–40&nbsp; "You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me."<h3>So what exactly is the message of the "purification ritual" in the Mosaic Law — a.k.a. water baptism — saying about Jesus? </h3>A. Mikveh (a.k.a. water baptism) points to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Every time the Jews practiced this purification ritual, it was a prophetic declaration of Jesus’s mission on earth. He was to die, be buried, and resurrect on the third day.B. Mikveh was a prophetic declaration of what man must do to be able to be right with God.John 3:3"Jesus replied, Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again."This was Jesus’s response to Nicodemus (a religious teacher) who tried to engage Him in conversation. In Jewish literature, someone coming out of mikvah (the living water) is considered to experience new birth. This is the meaning of being born again. Jesus then clarified further: “I tell you the truth, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Water in this case was referring to mikvah, the living water.C. Jesus is the Source of Mikvah (the Living Water) "Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life" (John 4:14).Living water in the New Testament often refers to the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised us the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:16, 2 Thessalonians 2:13 &nbsp;&amp; Titus 3:5 )1 Corinthians 6:11 "And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."Putting It All Together&nbsp;"I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’" (John The Baptist said this)Jesus is the one who purifies, sanctifies, and cleanses us through Mikvah / living water (the Holy Spirit) when we believe in Him.<h3>Mikvah / Water Baptism and the New Testament Church</h3><figure id="figure-nx29b3tg7smfj2bgpd"><img id="nx29b3tg7smfj2bgpd" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22KtbVFod7bRl1zCPL0HXgeQJ6ojX8WNjfKQPoMmDhhbi1Ugu3asMwdA8vjgot3g.jpg" alt="Young woman baptized in the ocean" title="Young woman baptized in the ocean" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22KtbVFod7bRl1zCPL0HXgeQJ6ojX8WNjfKQPoMmDhhbi1Ugu3asMwdA8vjgot3g.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>While this is a minor issue of Christian doctrine, it is still important to address it. Just like other parts of Mosaic Law, water baptism has no place in the New Testament church. It has no spiritual significance.&nbsp;&nbsp;The requirement for water purification was fulfilled 2000+ years ago by Jesus Christ. All we have to do now is BELIEVE.Matthew 5:17 "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them." (ESV)Since the requirement is fulfilled, our role now is to believe in Jesus and accept His finished work, which will inevitably lead to the production of good works.<h3>Did Jesus ask us to do water baptism? NO.</h3>Matthew 28:18–20 "....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.&nbsp;We are to make disciples (starting from our family) by teaching people to have faith in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit by accepting the finished work of Jesus Christ (the Son). Jesus through the Holy Spirit does the santification/cleansing/purification.&nbsp;In Conlusion, What about the Early Church?<figure id="figure-p8c878auvg9mfj2x1xz"><img id="p8c878auvg9mfj2x1xz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9Gc2jYHHIdhXcll8iMQTl938zHGZRzd2u46WwPFz7qi8k3Eib1rL2mK4atRpRqmt.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9Gc2jYHHIdhXcll8iMQTl938zHGZRzd2u46WwPFz7qi8k3Eib1rL2mK4atRpRqmt.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The apostles continued the practice of baptism by immersion, following the Jewish custom of mikveh, but it is also clear that the early church struggled to let go of certain Judaic practices. For example, when Peter was sent to Cornelius, he initially resisted the angel’s command, saying, “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean” (Acts 10:14), showing how deeply ingrained ritual purity was in Jewish thought. Likewise, some believers were teaching that circumcision was necessary for salvation (Acts 15:1), reflecting the tension between law and grace. Even Paul, while acknowledging baptism, made it clear that God had not sent him primarily to baptize but “to preach the gospel” (1 Corinthians 1:17), emphasizing that the power of salvation rests not in ritual acts but in faith in Christ alone.The real challenge for preachers and church planters today is this: hold on to the pure Gospel—and drop the symbols that distract from it.John 4:23–24 "Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth."

“From Mikveh to Messiah: Why Water Baptism Was Only a Shadow”

<figure id="figure-h0gv88njqkmeqbrarn"><img id="h0gv88njqkmeqbrarn" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/638242826/photo/jesus-anointing-by-the-sinner-published-c-1850.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=SyezayCyfWO1pbObJmDmHnc8uFNlT9SJZ3O_Lvak81o=" alt="Jesus' anointing by the sinner (Luke 7, 36-50), published c.1850" title="Jesus' anointing by the sinner (Luke 7, 36-50), published c.1850" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/638242826/photo/jesus-anointing-by-the-sinner-published-c-1850.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=SyezayCyfWO1pbObJmDmHnc8uFNlT9SJZ3O_Lvak81o=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Luke 15 was Jesus explaining the Character of God. The audience of this chapter included sinners, tax collectors, Pharisees, and teachers of the Law. They were questioning why Jesus was fellowshipping with sinners. The first part was the parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3–7). The second part was the parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8–10). The last part, and our main focus, is the parable of the Lost Son (Luke 15:11–31).&nbsp; The Main Character of the Parable of the Lost SonOften because this parable is called the “Prodigal Son” or the “Parable of the Lost Son,” we assume the main character is the prodigal. But when you consider the entire chapter — and the fact that Jesus was responding to questions about His character — it is clear that the Father is the true main character of the parable.The Pharisees and teachers of the Law believed Jesus should not associate with sinners. They mischaracterized who He was. At the very least, they saw Jesus as a holy man connected to God. But they did not fully grasp that Jesus is God. Through these parables, Jesus revealed His character and the character of His Father.We know that when you see Jesus, you have seen the Father. Jesus is the express image of the Father:“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” (Hebrews 1:3, NIV)“Jesus answered: ‘Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?” (John 14:9, NIV)It is also no coincidence that Jesus came to introduce God as Father. If you read the Old Testament, God is often portrayed in ways that people misunderstood — like a distant king or harsh ruler. Jesus came to correct those distorted views and reveal the truth: God is Father. He is the main character of this parable.<h3>&nbsp;Who is the Prodigal Son?</h3>The younger son demanded his inheritance, left home, and wasted everything in reckless living. When famine struck, he was reduced to feeding pigs and longing to eat their food. In desperation, he realized his father’s servants lived better than him. Broken and repentant, he decided to return home, confess his sin, and ask to be treated as a servant (Luke 15:12–20).Possible Profile of the Prodigal Son:<figure id="figure-ngwikkkqhmmeqc4g9a"><img id="ngwikkkqhmmeqc4g9a" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/471907607/photo/jesus-and-disciples-feed-crowd.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=vYt2bydy7PH9NZEypcgXvJrZawsD5d-p61SnuHAzqqM=" alt="Jesus and Disciples Feed Crowd" title="Jesus and Disciples Feed Crowd" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/471907607/photo/jesus-and-disciples-feed-crowd.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=vYt2bydy7PH9NZEypcgXvJrZawsD5d-p61SnuHAzqqM=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><ul><li>Impulsive and naïve.</li><li>Entitled.</li><li>Thought he had it all figured out, but didn’t see the famine coming.</li><li>Struggled with separation anxiety, masked as independence.</li><li>Equated freedom with indulgence.</li><li>Craved acceptance and significance but sought it in the wrong places.</li><li>Knew his father was wealthy and would not completely abandon him.</li><li>Believed his father would accept him back, but underestimated the depth of his father’s love.</li><li>Thought he would return as a servant, not realizing he will always. be a son.</li></ul><h3>Who is the Older Brother?</h3>The older son returned from the field and, hearing music, discovered his brother had come home and was being celebrated. Angry and unwilling to join the feast, he complained to his father that after years of loyal service he had never been rewarded. He resented that his reckless brother was honored.Possible Profile of the Older Brother<figure id="figure-yvr8p5islemeqc92ez"><img id="yvr8p5islemeqc92ez" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bi0Rp0sDp8Fe83sWJ9vWrLbtGlGsSugTvAuVSJvyr3VGLmPuhb7uPr97rQMFbCy.png" alt="Contemporary art collage or design about mother and son doing yoga or sports exercises. Fit family, good time together. Concept of a healthy lifestyle" title="Contemporary art collage or design about mother and son doing yoga or sports exercises. Fit family, good time together. Concept of a healthy lifestyle" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1bi0Rp0sDp8Fe83sWJ9vWrLbtGlGsSugTvAuVSJvyr3VGLmPuhb7uPr97rQMFbCy.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><ul><li>Resentful, bitter, with unmet expectations.</li><li>Suppressed his emotions for years while performing dutifully.</li><li>Found his sense of worth in achievement and recognition.</li><li>Obeyed outwardly but felt unseen inwardly.</li><li>His anger revealed sibling rivalry and resentment toward perceived favoritism.</li><li>Judgmental.</li><li>Lacked love — he didn’t care about his brother’s restoration.</li><li>Condescending: “But when this son of yours…” (v.30).</li><li>Questioned God's grace for his brother</li><li>Did not understand his father’s character.</li><li>Did not fully grasp his position in his father’s house: “My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours” (v.31).</li></ul><h3>The Profile of the Father </h3>“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20)Jesus used this parable to answer the question that has troubled people for generations — the question of works vs. grace. Understanding the Father’s character helps us navigate it.The prodigal son knew his father was kind, but he underestimated his love. He thought he could return only as a servant. But the Father would never accept his child as a slave — because he was always a son.The older brother, meanwhile, represents work-based Christianity. He stayed in his father’s house but lost sight of his identity. Many of us do the same — thinking we must work to earn salvation, work to keep salvation, or work to maintain relationship with God. This is Christianity built on “doing,” not on understanding the grace of God.This is due to the lack of understanding of the Grace of God.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-2be6tpt55meqcs1po"><img id="2be6tpt55meqcs1po" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dPyX9LBs70jowDUoxGUuvp9BUCdj7bt8XEfn3pP7iaFfJc1Nq6SBOQ6wf61cmmr.png" alt="Vienna - The comeback of Prodigal son" title="Vienna - The comeback of Prodigal son" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dPyX9LBs70jowDUoxGUuvp9BUCdj7bt8XEfn3pP7iaFfJc1Nq6SBOQ6wf61cmmr.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Grace is not about what the younger son failed to do, nor about what the older son was doing. Grace is the very character of God. The father loved both sons consistently — the prodigal when he was far away, and the older son when he was close yet mischaracterising Him. His compassion was not earned, it was given. Beyond being happy to see His son, the Father had COMPASSION on his condition. The Father had already forgiven him before the son said any word.&nbsp;The Pharisees asked why Jesus dined with sinners. His answer was this parable. And His answer was one word: Grace.I pray that we continue to understand the debt of God's grace available for us.&nbsp;

The Prodigal Son: Works vs Grace

We know John the Baptist performed a baptism of repentance. We also know that Jesus was a man without sin. So why did the sinless Jesus Christ undergo John’s baptism of repentance?Today, in the modern church, we often view baptism as a symbolic act—an outward declaration that we died with Christ and were raised with Him when lifted out of the water.But when Jesus stepped into the Jordan River to be baptized by John, something far more profound than symbolism took place. This moment wasn’t just about identifying with sinners or marking the beginning of His public ministry—it was a divine ordination. Jesus’ baptism wasn’t merely a nod to Jewish customs; it was the moment Heaven declared Him the true and eternal High Priest. And the parallels to the Levitical priesthood—and even to the mysterious priest-king Melchizedek—are impossible to ignore.Hebrews 10:1 (ESV) “For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities,&nbsp;Let’s unpack the rich layers behind this pivotal event.<h3>Washed Like a Priest: The Levitical Parallel</h3>In Leviticus 8, Moses consecrates Aaron and his sons as priests. The ceremony begins with a ritual washing with water. Before a priest could offer sacrifices on behalf of the people, he had to be cleansed.“Then Moses brought Aaron and his sons forward and washed them with water.” — Leviticus 8:6“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.” — Matthew 3:13 Though Jesus was sinless, He submitted to this washing “to fulfill all righteousness.” Like the priests of old, He was being ceremonially set apart—not to offer animal sacrifices, but to offer Himself.<h3>Anointed From Above: The Spirit vs. the Oil</h3>Levitical priests were also anointed with oil, symbolizing the Holy Spirit’s empowerment for priestly service.“He poured some of the anointing oil on Aaron’s head and anointed him to consecrate him.” — Leviticus 8:12<img id="k9p6e0w8e5md21cqua" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/313bCvVE4s6d2Yvxve1mRxiqUysNAD0VUcMggneCpdTnp8JPFlrQd61ojAe60Ok4.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/313bCvVE4s6d2Yvxve1mRxiqUysNAD0VUcMggneCpdTnp8JPFlrQd61ojAe60Ok4.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" style="border-color: rgb(229, 231, 235); --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-pan-x: ; --tw-pan-y: ; --tw-pinch-zoom: ; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-gradient-from-position: ; --tw-gradient-via-position: ; --tw-gradient-to-position: ; --tw-ordinal: ; --tw-slashed-zero: ; --tw-numeric-figure: ; --tw-numeric-spacing: ; --tw-numeric-fraction: ; --tw-ring-inset: ; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(62,172,255,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-blur: ; --tw-brightness: ; --tw-contrast: ; --tw-grayscale: ; --tw-hue-rotate: ; --tw-invert: ; --tw-saturate: ; --tw-sepia: ; --tw-drop-shadow: ; --tw-backdrop-blur: ; --tw-backdrop-brightness: ; --tw-backdrop-contrast: ; --tw-backdrop-grayscale: ; --tw-backdrop-hue-rotate: ; --tw-backdrop-invert: ; --tw-backdrop-opacity: ; --tw-backdrop-saturate: ; --tw-backdrop-sepia: ; --tw-transform: translateX(0) translateY(0) rotate(0) skewX(0) skewY(0) scaleX(1) scaleY(1); --tw-border-opacity: 1; --tw-filter: ; --tw-backdrop-filter: ; --tw-bg-opacity: 1; background-color: rgb(243, 244, 246); width: 640px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); aspect-ratio: 16 / 9; object-position: center center;">At Jesus’ baptism, something even more profound happened:“...He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him.” — Matthew 3:16 Jesus wasn’t anointed with physical oil; He was anointed with the Holy Spirit Himself.<h3>Priests Begin Service at Age 30</h3>Numbers 4:3 (ESV) “From thirty years old up to fifty years old, all who can come on duty, to do the work in the tent of meeting.”&nbsp;The age of 30 was the God-ordained starting point for priestly ministry. Jesus Started His Ministry and was Baptized at the age of 30.&nbsp;<h3>Plublic declaration</h3>In the Old Testament, it was both customary and divinely commanded for a priest’s ordination to be a public event. God designed the ordination process to be witnessed by the entire congregation of Israel, making it a formal declaration of the priest’s role, authority, and consecration before the people.God the Father made the public declaration of His Son.“And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’” — Matthew 3:17<figure id="figure-1z686dwz3wnmd22dl85"><img id="1z686dwz3wnmd22dl85" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2fXHbyha7lr7pqRtkTy2ClZr2hHNLPVXpGysOhpeIqgEs1x3A4swLTYBZm1H94pO.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 65% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="65%" data-positionY="20%" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h2>Putting all of this Together.</h2>The baptism of Jesus was the moment He assumed the role of our Chief High Priest in the flesh. He is the only and true High Priest. Aaron and the priests under the law were types and Shadows pointing to Jesus Christ.&nbsp;Here were the Roles of High Priest under the Law.<ul><li>Mediator between God and people; Hebrews 5:1</li><li>Offered sacrifices for sin; Leviticus 16; 4</li><li>Entered Holy of Holies (once/year); Leviticus 16</li><li>Wore holy garments; Exodus 28</li><li>Burned incense; Exodus 30:7–8</li><li>Oversaw Tabernacle/Temple; Numbers 3:32</li><li>Taught and interpreted the Law; Malachi 2:7</li><li>Died if approached God unworthily; Leviticus 16:2</li></ul>Jesus Fullfilled and REPLACED all of this by becoming our Chief High Priest. What do we have to do then? Believe in Him,While Jesus is the Chief Priest, we also know that He has called ALL OF US into priesthood.&nbsp;Revelation 1:5–6 (ESV) “To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood and made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”1 Peter 2:9 (ESV) “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”In conclusion, this post is not intended to debate whether water baptism should be practiced today. While I personally believe the Church would benefit from moving beyond symbolic rituals, the main purpose here is to highlight that Jesus’ baptism was not merely symbolic—it was His divine ordination in human flesh as the true and eternal High Priest, the one who restores our right standing with God the Father. And, the event was fulfilling the levitical priesthood ordination requirement as Jesus said; To fulfill all righeousness.&nbsp;Luke 3:16 (ESV) “John answered them all, saying, ‘I baptize you with water, but He who is mightier than I is coming... He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.’”&nbsp;

The Significance of Jesus' Baptism

The background of the cross and crown of thorns symbolizing the sacrifice and suffering of Jesus Christ, and the concept of Passion Week, Lent, and Easter with a red sunset

<figure id="figure-wke9b1r8fwmb460uvw"><img id="wke9b1r8fwmb460uvw" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2049705945/photo/silhouette-of-three-crosses.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1NzvSJM4EFu4PYYbUgG3n8VKcBsXCi69ok4GL7BQzUI=" alt="Silhouette of three crosses" title="Silhouette of three crosses" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2049705945/photo/silhouette-of-three-crosses.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1NzvSJM4EFu4PYYbUgG3n8VKcBsXCi69ok4GL7BQzUI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The central theme of the Scriptures is how God extends grace to mankind by coming into the world as a man—so that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. This is a recurring message throughout the Bible. The captivity and deliverance of the nation of Israel is a type and shadow of grace and works. The story of Jacob and Esau also represents a type and shadow of grace and works. There are many more stories in the Old Testament that convey the same theme. As I continue to learn, I will share more.<h3>The Two Thieves </h3>Luke 23:32–43 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”At arguably the worst moment of God’s human experience, His character still shined. Two guilty thieves were crucified next to the Lord.<h3>Observation 1: Both Were Guilty</h3>The Scriptures don’t provide much background on the two thieves, except the fact that they were crucified. One of them, however, acknowledged their guilt:Luke 23:41"We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve." Scripture is clear: all humans have sinned—both inherently and directly. The very moment you think you don’t actively sin is often the moment pride has set in. And pride—whether loud or subtle—is still sin.Jesus set a standard of righteousness that is impossible to meet through human effort alone. For example:Matthew 5:28 (NIV) "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." We are the thieves.<ul><li>Romans 3:23 (NIV) "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." </li><li>Ecclesiastes 7:20 (NIV) "Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does what is right and never sins." </li><li>Psalm 51:5 (NIV) "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." </li><li>1 John 1:8 (NIV) "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us." &nbsp;<h3>Observation 2: One Thief Mocked Jesus</h3>Luke 23:39 (NIV) "One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: 'Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!'"</li></ul>That thief was probably in extreme pain. But rather than focusing inwardly on his condition, he chose to mock Jesus. Interestingly, even in his mockery, he seems to acknowledge something unique about Jesus by asking Him to save both Himself and them.We see this today. Nearly all of humanity believes a man named Jesus lived over 2,000 years ago and that He was revolutionary. But that’s where many stop. As believers, we know He is far more than a historical figure. He is the Creator of the universe. He is God.<h3>&nbsp;Observation 3: The Other Thief Believed</h3>The second thief acknowledged his own guilt and recognized Jesus’ innocence. More importantly, he displayed faith in Jesus’ identity and kingdom. While we’re not entirely sure if he explicitly recognized Jesus as God, his words—“Don’t you fear God?”—imply a reverence and a belief in something beyond that moment.He had enough faith to believe that there was a kingdom after that crucifixion.<h3>Jesus Rewarded His Faith</h3><figure id="figure-q508z1cpzmb461fj1"><img id="q508z1cpzmb461fj1" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1216824578/photo/let-my-people-go-demands-moses-in-egypt.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kP-pTuXYNzJOA4EnMzoe1wf-KzguroFZ7hSjSpikpqA=" alt="Let My People Go Demands Moses in Egypt" title="Let My People Go Demands Moses in Egypt" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1216824578/photo/let-my-people-go-demands-moses-in-egypt.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kP-pTuXYNzJOA4EnMzoe1wf-KzguroFZ7hSjSpikpqA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Luke 23:42–43Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”As I said at the beginning, this is the theme of the Scriptures. It is the only theme of the Christian faith. Nothing can be earned from God. The very idea that we can earn something from the Almighty is an insult to His character. All we must do is believe.Jesus spoke frequently about faith. Without faith, it is impossible to please Him.These were two thieves who had spent their lives living in sin and hurting others. But in the final moments of their lives, one believed—and the other did not.It’s not a question of earning salvation. It’s not a question of deserving it. It’s not a question of fairness.Those are irrelevant.There is only one question:Do you believe in Jesus—or not?

Christ Uncensored

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The Bread of the Presence and the Shadow of Christ

The Bread of Life: Grace vs. Works

“From Mikveh to Messiah: Why Water Baptism Was Only a Sha...

The Prodigal Son: Works vs Grace

The Significance of Jesus' Baptism

Grace and Works: The Two Thieves at the Cross