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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?

Grace and Works: The Two Thieves at the Cross

<figure id="figure-dkv3oi80xm9gbb98m"><img id="dkv3oi80xm9gbb98m" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1320356231/photo/stained-glass-of-angels-holding-the-holy-grail.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=apmpO_a59uPk90stNnCLxGI9qEtPFhgSR8n_1kba6SI=" alt="Stained glass of angels holding the Holy Grail" title="Stained glass of angels holding the Holy Grail" 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/1320356231/photo/stained-glass-of-angels-holding-the-holy-grail.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=apmpO_a59uPk90stNnCLxGI9qEtPFhgSR8n_1kba6SI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Researching the topic of liberal theology was, frankly, frustrating. But in that frustration lies an opportunity—to shift our focus back to what really matters: Christology—the study of the person and work of Jesus Christ.&nbsp;What is Theology?&nbsp; Theology means the “study of God.” The word comes from the Greek theos (God) and logos (word, study, or discourse). So, theology literally means “discourse about God.”&nbsp;Now, what is liberal theology? At face value, it implies a liberal or progressive way of studying or thinking about God. But it's more than that. The term liberal is relative. Liberal theology exists in contrast to another viewpoint—conservative theology. The key questions we must ask are:&nbsp;Does God care about this? Which version of theology best describes who God is?&nbsp; &nbsp; Elements of Liberal Theology&nbsp; <ul><li>View of Scripture: Scripture is viewed as rich in symbolism and shaped by historical context. It is not always considered inerrant or infallible.&nbsp;</li><li>Approach to Doctrine: Open to reinterpretation and doctrinal evolution over time. Traditional beliefs are not seen as static.&nbsp; </li><li>Understanding of Jesus: Focuses more on Jesus as a moral teacher and example rather than primarily on His divinity or atoning sacrifice.&nbsp;</li><li>Miracles and the Supernatural: Often reinterpreted as metaphorical or understood through modern scientific frameworks.&nbsp; </li><li>Position on Social Issues: Generally progressive—emphasizes inclusion across gender and sexuality and encourages interfaith dialogue.</li><li>Concept of Truth: Truth is seen as evolving, influenced by culture, experience, and time.&nbsp;</li></ul>Elements of Conservative Theology&nbsp;<ul><li>View of Scripture: Often interpreted literally and regarded as free from error—fully authoritative and trustworthy.</li><li>Approach to Doctrine: Rooted in long-standing creeds and resistant to changes in core beliefs.&nbsp; </li><li>Understanding of Jesus:&nbsp;Jesus is central as the divine Son of God whose death and resurrection provide salvation.&nbsp; </li><li>Miracles and the Supernatural: Fully accepted as literal, historical events that are central to the Christian faith.&nbsp; </li><li>Position on Social Issues: Typically maintains traditional views on topics like marriage, gender roles, and sanctity of life.&nbsp; </li><li>Concept of Truth: Truth is considered absolute, unchanging, and revealed by God—not shaped by culture.&nbsp; &nbsp; <h3>My Reflections</h3>View of Scripture&nbsp;</li></ul>It would be intellectually dishonest to say the Bible is entirely free from human error. It's also not a comprehensive biography of anyone except Jesus. For example, how can Abraham’s 175-year life be accurately captured in just a few chapters? It is not possible. So we don't know 99% of the life of the characters in the Scriptures.&nbsp;The Bible was originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, and has undergone extensive translation over millennia: Septuagint (Greek, c. 250–100 BCE), Latin Vulgate (c. 382–405 CE), and more. Today, it exists in over 3,600 languages. It's reasonable to conclude that some context or nuance has been lost in translation.&nbsp; Does that mean the Bible is fallible? Yes—the text itself is fallible. It didn’t fall from heaven. It was written by around 40 different human authors over 1,500 years. According to 2 Timothy 3:16–17, they were inspired by God, but not dictated to.&nbsp;And yet, here’s the miracle: these diverse authors, separated by time and culture, were all pointing to the same person—Jesus Christ. That’s why the Bible, despite its human flaws, remains the most trustworthy reference we have for knowing God. It has greater authority than visions, encounters, or religious traditions.&nbsp;Both liberal and conservative theology often miss this: the Bible is about Jesus. It must be interpreted with Him as the central figure—not debated endlessly over historical details or peripheral doctrines.&nbsp; &nbsp; Approach to Doctrine&nbsp; The central doctrine is Jesus. Everything else must be measured by Him.&nbsp; The danger of conservative theology is that it can become rigid, resistant to fresh insight about Jesus, even when it comes from Scripture. On the flip side, liberal theology often opens the door to endless reinterpretation that may drift away from Christ altogether.&nbsp;Jesus must be the absolute. Paul, Peter, David, and the others were inspired, but they are not the standard. Their teachings must be evaluated in light of Jesus’ words and actions. For example, Paul said women should be silent in church—but what would Jesus say? What was Paul’s context?&nbsp; In this sense, liberal theology is correct: we must be open to evolving. But that evolution must be anchored in Christ.&nbsp; &nbsp; Understanding of Jesus&nbsp;<figure id="figure-b4dj7dvicwm9gap5an"><img id="b4dj7dvicwm9gap5an" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/600166380/photo/it-is-in-difficult-times-that-he-carries-you.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TxgnNG8T_6XADhfZwcpOdwaGhwCI1vN3S1JBZAgcEI0=" alt="It is in difficult times that He carries you" title="It is in difficult times that He carries you" 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://media.gettyimages.com/id/600166380/photo/it-is-in-difficult-times-that-he-carries-you.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=TxgnNG8T_6XADhfZwcpOdwaGhwCI1vN3S1JBZAgcEI0=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> Liberal theology often reduces Jesus to just a great moral teacher. But the beauty of Jesus' moral teaching is that we can’t live up to it—not without Him.&nbsp; "Unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees... you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." — Matthew 5:20&nbsp;This is the entire point of grace. Jesus didn’t just teach morality—He embodied righteousness and gifted it to us through faith. This is where conservative theology is closer to the truth, though not always perfect in its expression.&nbsp; &nbsp; Miracles and the Supernatural&nbsp; If we don’t believe in miracles, we don’t believe in God. Yes, miracles can carry deeper meanings, but that doesn’t make them less real. Miracles still happen. To dismiss them is to dismiss faith itself.&nbsp; &nbsp; Position on Social Issues&nbsp;<figure id="figure-e89o9yuzcm9gasw2p" class=""><img id="e89o9yuzcm9gasw2p" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/104939553/photo/conquest-of-jerusalem-by-charlemagne.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=3LPrCu0cuf__uvR1r6SZAas0PUErgcyFdfaVgbCb4ZA=" alt="Conquest of Jerusalem by Charlemagne" title="Conquest of Jerusalem by Charlemagne" 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/104939553/photo/conquest-of-jerusalem-by-charlemagne.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=3LPrCu0cuf__uvR1r6SZAas0PUErgcyFdfaVgbCb4ZA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>This is where things get even more complicated. Today, many Christian leaders stay silent about real atrocities—like the killing of innocent civilians by military forces (e.g., in the Israel-Palestine conflict). Historically, this isn’t new. Religion has often been used to justify violence:&nbsp;<ul><li>The Crusades (1096–1291): Christians waged war in the name of reclaiming the Holy Land.&nbsp;</li><li>The Inquisition: Torture and executions of heretics, Jews, Muslims, and scientists.&nbsp;</li><li>Witch Hunts: Brutal killings of alleged witches, often without evidence.&nbsp;</li><li>Religious Wars in Europe: Millions died over denominational differences.&nbsp;</li><li>Colonial Conversions: Forced conversions in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.&nbsp;</li></ul><figure id="figure-5l243rg3lcm9gba5q0"><img id="5l243rg3lcm9gba5q0" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/982579896/photo/old-couple-rear-view-in-church-keeping-the-sunlight-beam-out-of-his-eyes.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KptJ_bkPNCzqQoUqpk3Y62cVubS0KbpAxKxeb7YkBPA=" alt="Old couple rear view in church keeping the sunlight beam out of his eyes" title="Old couple rear view in church keeping the sunlight beam out of his eyes" 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/982579896/photo/old-couple-rear-view-in-church-keeping-the-sunlight-beam-out-of-his-eyes.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=KptJ_bkPNCzqQoUqpk3Y62cVubS0KbpAxKxeb7YkBPA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>This violence was committed in God’s name, but not in God’s character.&nbsp;"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." — Galatians 5:22–23&nbsp;"Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father." — John 14:9&nbsp;The character of God is revealed in the Man, Jesus, not in the political or military agendas of nations or churches.&nbsp; Hebrews 1:3 (ESV)&nbsp; "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature..."&nbsp;Colossians 1:15 (NIV)&nbsp; "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation."&nbsp;John 14:9 (NIV)&nbsp; Jesus answered: "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father."&nbsp;So, while conservative theology clings to traditional moral stances, it has also—historically and presently—been weaponized. &nbsp;Core elements of the fruit of the Spirit have been minimized for the illusion of doctrinal purity. Elements like love, kindness, Compassion etc. So, the debate really is which evil is more acceptable? For example,&nbsp;<ul><li>Abortion or Capital punishment? &nbsp;</li><li>Gay marriage OR stoning them on the street? &nbsp;</li><li>Witchcraft or burning alive of another Human being?</li><li>Etc.&nbsp;</li></ul>None of this is about Jesus. The debates are expression of self-righteousness. Jesus loves EVERYBODY. John 3:16&nbsp;&nbsp;My Conclusion&nbsp;<figure id="figure-q80pxaseksm9gbyx4t"><img id="q80pxaseksm9gbyx4t" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32Tu2m13DDx93iaQsLFl5qB36jfO0URhPxBjqGcE20Wn5vjUYp7YyCITbJp2fWyV.png" alt="Preacher reading from holy bible in church" title="Preacher reading from holy bible in church" 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/32Tu2m13DDx93iaQsLFl5qB36jfO0URhPxBjqGcE20Wn5vjUYp7YyCITbJp2fWyV.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Most people fall somewhere on a spectrum between liberal and conservative theology. But God doesn’t live at the extremes of any ideology. The Bible was written in ancient time, for ancient audiences, and in ancient languages. We must interpret it wisely, carefully, and always through the lens of Christ. That’s why researching liberal theology was so frustrating—because the debate often misses the entire point of Christianity. The Christian faith is not about moral perfection, sinless perfection, social ideology, or doctrinal superiority. Doctrinal purity does not exist (Not even in the Bible). It’s about restored relationship with God.&nbsp; It’s about Jesus.&nbsp; It’s about grace.&nbsp; And it’s about faith in the One who fulfilled the law so we could be free (including freedom to have an ideology).&nbsp; When liberal and conservative theologians argue, they're often just debating works. But work doesn't save. Jesus does. Good Works is a byproduct of ongoing relationship with Jesus. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Liberal Theology: Symptoms of A Bigger Program

<figure id="figure-730kqa1kxdm91c21zm"><img id="730kqa1kxdm91c21zm" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/184132508/photo/rocky-setting-at-mount-of-temptation.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pNCq-cux768YoXGXXVAUDVFE3Pr81U_IuG4Mio2krvc=" alt="Rocky setting at Mount of Temptation" title="Rocky setting at Mount of Temptation" 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://media.gettyimages.com/id/184132508/photo/rocky-setting-at-mount-of-temptation.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=pNCq-cux768YoXGXXVAUDVFE3Pr81U_IuG4Mio2krvc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>So far,we have examined the following<a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/is-religion-a-tool-for-control--exploring-modern-church-enslavement" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/is-religion-a-tool-for-control--exploring-modern-church-enslavement" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Part 1: Is Religion a Tool for Control? Exploring Modern Church Enslavement&nbsp;</a> We introduced the idea that the enslavement of Israel was a prediction of the evolution of the modern Church.&nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/from-shackles-to-pews--how-the-modern-church-sustains-systems-of-control" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/from-shackles-to-pews--how-the-modern-church-sustains-systems-of-control">Part 2: From Shackles to Pews: How the Modern Church Sustains Systems of Control </a>; We argued that the elements of slavery are all found in today’s modern church.<a data-mce-href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-idols-of-egypt--a-warning-for-the-modern-church" href="https://christuncensored.net/blog/the-idols-of-egypt--a-warning-for-the-modern-church">Part 3: The Idols of Egypt: A Warning for the Modern Church</a>; We explained how idol worship prevented God from taking many of the Israelites to the Promised Land and how this remains a significant issue in today’s church.&nbsp; &nbsp; What Is the Point of All of This?&nbsp;Exodus 3:8 (KJV):&nbsp; "And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey."&nbsp;This statement by God sums up the entire scripture, but we need to examine it more closely to fully understand its significance.&nbsp;Exodus 5:1:&nbsp; "And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told Pharaoh, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness."&nbsp; Exodus 8:1 (NIV):&nbsp; "Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Go to Pharaoh and say to him, “This is what the Lord says: Let my people go, so that they may worship me.”’"&nbsp; God used three words interchangeably: Serve, Worship, and Feast. Since He used them interchangeably, they must carry the same meaning. To serve God is to worship Him. To worship God is to feast unto Him.&nbsp;Serve = Worship = Feast.&nbsp; Understanding Worship&nbsp;<ul><li>Shachah (Hebrew): To bow down, prostrate oneself (Psalm 95:6). This refers both literally and figuratively to humbling oneself before God in reverence and submission.&nbsp;</li><li>Ābad (Hebrew): Service, labor, work (Exodus 8:1). This is the context of Jesus’ instruction to Moses.&nbsp;</li></ul><figure id="figure-y3r38bl9mm91c2twt"><img id="y3r38bl9mm91c2twt" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/667802574/photo/you-are-never-truly-alone-if-you-have-faith.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=unJ8-TtToOpR98x2wClsWyJhqUbmRExBu4B1OSku-Oc=" alt="You are never truly alone if you have faith" title="You are never truly alone if you have faith" 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://media.gettyimages.com/id/667802574/photo/you-are-never-truly-alone-if-you-have-faith.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=unJ8-TtToOpR98x2wClsWyJhqUbmRExBu4B1OSku-Oc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Worship is humbling ourselves before God—literally or figuratively—in submission, to serve and labor for Him. The Israelites were already doing this for Pharaoh, but now God was demanding their freedom so that they could serve Him.&nbsp;Matthew 11:30 (NIV):&nbsp; "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."&nbsp;You are serving and laboring for God when you do His will against your Humanistic instincts. Example; Loving your enemy would be your act of worship. Being kind and good to everyone would be your act of worship. Being generous to the homeless would be your act of worship.<h3>What Makes Worship Acceptable to God?&nbsp; </h3>John 4:23-24 (KJV):&nbsp; "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth."&nbsp;In Spirit&nbsp; Acceptable worship must be done in spirit. I once thought this meant worship inspired by the Holy Spirit. But in context (John 4:7-26), Jesus was saying worship is no longer tied to a physical place like Jerusalem because God is spirit.&nbsp;He desires worship based solely on faith, without physical references.&nbsp; This means the church must move away from symbolisms—crosses, anointing oil, prayer shawls, etc.—as they can and will lead to idolatry. At the very least, we know God does not desire worship through physical means. We have direct access to Him. Hebrews 11:6 (KJV):&nbsp; "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." In Truth&nbsp; Worshiping God in truth means worshiping Him with the revelation of Jesus and His mission.&nbsp; Exodus 5:1:&nbsp; "Let my people go, that they may hold a feast unto me in the wilderness."&nbsp;There are seven feasts that God introduced to the Israelites in the wilderness. Their purpose was to reveal Jesus Christ, the Truth (not to be repeated by believers after fulfillment): &nbsp;<figure id="figure-pk2x2b4jxm91ca50j"><img id="pk2x2b4jxm91ca50j" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2067494980/photo/a-man-celebrates-the-jewish-holiday-of-passover.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YG7tN__R-3DGCKDGwnt6qKwKmx_SgHHrARCpEfm3VVc=" alt="A man celebrates the Jewish holiday of Passover" title="A man celebrates the Jewish holiday of Passover" 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/2067494980/photo/a-man-celebrates-the-jewish-holiday-of-passover.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=YG7tN__R-3DGCKDGwnt6qKwKmx_SgHHrARCpEfm3VVc=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><ol><li style="">Passover (Pesach) – (1 Corinthians 5:7).&nbsp;</li><li style="">Unleavened Bread (Chag HaMatzot) – (1 Corinthians 5:8). </li><li style="">Firstfruits (Yom HaBikkurim) – (1 Corinthians 15:20). </li><li style="">Pentecost (Shavuot) – (Acts 2). </li><li style="">Feast of Trumpets (Yom Teruah / Rosh Hashanah) – (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). </li><li style="">Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). </li><li style="">Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot).&nbsp; </li></ol>The Land Flowing with Milk and Honey&nbsp;<figure id="figure-69auuf4zam91cbg41" class=""><img id="69auuf4zam91cbg41" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1472352662/photo/the-watchman-zion-national-park-utah-usa-sunset.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=wi9sc5iHfCgjpuN6fup0nlvsXbAiV0uARN88hkVQ0Zg=" alt="The Watchman Zion National Park Utah USA Sunset" title="The Watchman Zion National Park Utah USA Sunset" 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://media.gettyimages.com/id/1472352662/photo/the-watchman-zion-national-park-utah-usa-sunset.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=wi9sc5iHfCgjpuN6fup0nlvsXbAiV0uARN88hkVQ0Zg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The plan from the beginning was to bring them to a land flowing with milk and honey. Canaan was not literally overflowing with rivers of milk and honey, but it was a fertile land, rich in resources, capable of sustaining livestock (milk) and producing abundant crops (honey). The phrase served both as a literal description of the land’s prosperity and a metaphor for something deeper.&nbsp; Genesis 12:7:&nbsp; "The Lord appeared to Abram and said, 'To your offspring I will give this land (Canaan).' So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him."&nbsp;Paul later explained that this offspring was Jesus.&nbsp;Galatians 3:16 (NIV):&nbsp; "The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. The Scripture does not say 'and to seeds,' meaning many people, but 'and to your seed,' meaning one person, who is Christ."&nbsp;Canaan represents a place of intimacy with Jesus Christ. It is a place of communion with Him, full knowledge of God, and God’s rest. It is place where humans get the full reality of Jesus.&nbsp;The first prototype of this land flowing with milk and honey was the Garden of Eden—a place of abundance and intimacy between God and man.&nbsp; Genesis 3:8 (NIV):&nbsp;"Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden."&nbsp;God and man coexisted in Eden, making it the first true place of intimacy with God.&nbsp;Returning to Zion&nbsp;While many people believe that the prophecies about Zion refer to a physical restoration of Jerusalem (possibly but irrelevant), their true message is that Jesus will restore relationship and intimacy with His people.&nbsp;Zechariah 8:3 (NIV):&nbsp; "This is what the Lord says: 'I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem.'"&nbsp; Psalm 126:1-3 (NIV):&nbsp; "When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy."&nbsp; JESUS IS THE KING OF ZION.<figure id="figure-t0sxehg4rbm91cdkl2"><img id="t0sxehg4rbm91cdkl2" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1997124335/photo/jesus-christ.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1CJk_RcK6iz8yENCKiCZxur32mHBvILQ9SqOTAAvGG8=" alt="Jesus Christ" title="Jesus Christ" 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/1997124335/photo/jesus-christ.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1CJk_RcK6iz8yENCKiCZxur32mHBvILQ9SqOTAAvGG8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Genesis 14:18-20 Melchizedek means King of Righteousness. He was also described as the King of Salem. Salem was the Old Jerusalem which was in canaan. It means the King of Peace. He was without beginning or end. Melchizedek serves as a divine prototype of Christ, revealing Jesus as our ultimate King, High Priest, and Mediator before God. Hebrews 7&nbsp; Conclusion&nbsp;The whole theme of the scriptures is the restoration of the Intimacy between Jesus and His people.&nbsp;God desires His people to be free—free from sin, legalism, and religious oppression. He has paid the price for our freedom. We need to be free to truly know Him and to worship Him.Idolatry can hinder the plans of God because we are now free to choose. Idolatry will take us back to slavery. True worship must be done by faith (no physical references) and in truth (the revelation of Jesus Christ). This will take place ONLY at Zion, where the King is waiting.&nbsp;Jeremiah 31:31-34 (NIV):&nbsp; "The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel... I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people."&nbsp;

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Let My People Go....Back to Zion