The Gospel of Christ is the power of God that brings salvation and eternal life.   Only the Melchisedec Priesthood is authorized by God to preach and administer the saving ordinances of the gospel.  Every principle of the gospel must be obeyed before one has hope of eternal life.  The first principles of the gospel include submission of our will to the will of God, faith, repentance, baptism of water, and baptism of the Spirit.  Here is the door into the kingdom of heaven.  Each must then overcome the adversary by remaining obedient to the law of God to the end of mortal life.

  “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” (Rom. 1:16)  

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The Bible specifically identifies the rules for membership into the kingdom of heaven.  Without such specific rules, any person could claim membership.  These rules are referred to as the first principles of the gospel of Christ.  No one can enter the kingdom without knowing and worshipping the true and living God; and accepting Jesus as their Savior.  “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3)

The first principles of the gospel include four essential elements:  (1) faith in God and Jesus Christ, (2) repentance and circumcision of the heart, (3) baptism of water, and (4) baptism of the Spirit.  If the initiate fails in any item, he fails in all.  A person can believe in God, and accept Jesus as His Savior; but, never enter the kingdom of heaven.  “5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God .” (John 3)  Even Jesus was not exempt from this rule.

(1)  Faith in God and Jesus Christ.  “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.” (Heb. 11:6)

Three things are necessary to have faith in God:  (1) an appreciation that He actually exists, (2) a correct understanding of His character, perfections, and attributes, and (3) a personal assurance that the course of life being pursued is in accordance with the will of God.  The creed for the Catholic Church, which Constantine supervised, states, “The Father incomprehensible, the Son incomprehensible, and the Holy Ghost incomprehensible.”  This creed of St. Athanasius also declares that every Christian that does not accept this and the rest of the creed “whole and undefiled, without doubt he shall perish everlastingly.”  Yet, Protestantism has accepted almost every line of this creed.

How can man have faith in an “incomprehensible”?  Ambrose (339-397 AD), the bishop of Milan , wrote in the Confessions, “when God is thought of, our thoughts should dwell on no material reality whatsoever.”  This is not the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  Abraham mistook God for a man.  He invited Him into his tent to eat; and offered to wash His feet. “And the LORD appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day... And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the LORD.” (Gen. 18:1, 22)

Jacob saw God face to face; and wrestled with Him.  “And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.” (Gen. 32:24, 28, 30).

Moses conversed with God face to face; as a man converses with a friend.  “And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend.  And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.” (Ex. 33:11)

God appeared to Ezekiel in the likeness of a man; although surrounded with fire and a glorious radiance. “And above the firmament that was over their heads was the likeness of a throne, as the appearance of a sapphire stone: and upon the likeness of the throne was the likeness as the appearance of a man above upon it. And I saw as the colour of amber, as the appearance of fire round about within it, from the appearance of his loins even upward, and from the appearance of his loins even downward, I saw as it were the appearance of fire, and it had brightness round about.” (Ezek. 1:26, 27)

Gospel faith is more than simply believing in God and Jesus.  It is a submission of our will to the will of God—circumcision of the heart.  It is a pledge of allegiance, an everlasting covenant, to be loyal to the kingdom of heaven; rather than the will of man.  Millions have been martyred for their refusal to turn against this allegiance.  Faith is an assurance from God, through the gift of prophecy, of the truth of those things not visible.

Gospel faith is only possible through the preaching of one that holds divine authority.  “14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed?  and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard?  and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent?  as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! 16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel.  For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? 17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom. 10)

(2) Repentance and circumcision of the heart.  We must first submit our will to the will of God.  On the day of Pentecost, the people “were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:37, 38)  “33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt. 6:33)

“9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also?  for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned?  when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision?  Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision [of the heart], a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised [in the flesh]; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: 12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.” (Rom. 4)

The law of God requires repentance.  A person must be cognizant of their unclean condition.  A person can know God and accept Jesus as his Savior; but, he is filthy still.  “8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness [through baptism]. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” (1 John 1)

  Not only does the law require repentance, it also requires recompense—making right those sins against either God, or man; and afterward a Godly walk in accordance with the law of God.  “1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand… 8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” (Matt. 3)

Jesus taught the same rule.  “17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matt. 4)

The Apostles taught the same rule.  “20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judaea, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.” (Acts 26)

We must subject our will to the will of God, “thy will be done.”  The greatest law can only be obeyed by putting the will of God ahead of the delights of the world.  “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” (Matt. 22:37)

  “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matt. 6:33)

  (3) Baptism of water.  After repentance, the initiate is prepared for the next rule:  baptism of water.  “5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God .” (John 3)

  The Bible is clear that only those called of God and properly ordained to the Melchisedec priesthood are qualified to administer baptism of water and the Spirit; and to have their acts recorded in heaven.  Cornelius was an honorable man, worshipped God, and accepted Jesus as his Savior.  Yet, he could not enter the kingdom of heaven, until he was baptized by one holding such authority.  An angel of the Lord told him to call for Peter.  Why?  Peter was an Apostle of the Melchisedec priesthood.  When Peter met Cornelius, he baptized him.

Baptism of water, by definition, is a complete immersion.  When Jesus used the terms “born again” and “born of water,” He resolved any question concerning the manner of its administration.  He further left no doubt in his discourse with Nicodemus.  A birth is a coming out of something that covers and conceals.  Jesus was the example for all.  He went to John the Baptist; because John held divine authority to baptize with water.  There is no question that the only manner of administering baptism throughout the Bible was by immersion.  “16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water.” (Matt. 3)  Even Moses baptized in the red sea.  “2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; 3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.” (1 Cor. 10)

(4)  Baptism of Spirit.  A person must also be born of the Spirit; and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.  On the day of Pentecost, there were men who believed in the God of Israel, accepted Jesus as their Savior, but had not entered the kingdom of heaven.  They were given gospel faith through the Holy Spirit, “37 …were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” (Acts 2)

  How is this baptism of the Spirit (fire) accomplished?  Peter and John went to Jerusalem; because some had been baptized only with water.  They needed to be baptized with the Spirit.  “17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 8)  “6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.” (Acts 19)

This laying on of hands by one holding the Melchisedec Priesthood is the only method of being born of the Spirit that is recognized in the Bible.  It is the final step through the door into the kingdom of heaven.  Three things are realized through this administration:  (1) the initiate is confirmed into the kingdom of heaven, (2) he is given a gift of the Holy Ghost appropriate to him, and (3) if cherished, he has the promise of the Holy Ghost to be with him and guide him into all truth that is edifying for him.

(1) Confirmation.  First, confirmation into any kingdom can only be realized by one holding proper authority.  The kingdom of God is no different.  Only those persons holding the Melchisedec priesthood have authority to baptize with water and the Spirit.  John, holding only the Levitical Priesthood, could only baptize with water.  Jesus, holding the Melchisedec Priesthood, was authorized to baptize with the Spirit; as were the Apostles and Elders whom they ordained.  Baptism of the Spirit is confirmation into the kingdom of heaven.

  Should a person’s later works depart from the law of God, he could be deported out of the kingdom.  “29 But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation.” (Mark 3)  When Jesus returns, only half the members of the kingdom will be found worthy (Matt. 25), “40 Then shall two [of the kingdom] be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.” (Matt. 24)

  Should a person die at the very moment of this confirmation, he would inherit eternal life.  All others must continue to worship God, obey His commandments, and work out their salvation.  “12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” (Phil. 2)  “10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” (John 15)  “13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” (Matt. 24)  “26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” (James 2)

  (2) The gift of the Holy Ghost.  The gift of the Holy Ghost is given to profit each man according to his needs and those of the other saints.  Peter told us these gifts were to remain for all future generations.  “38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.” (Acts 2)

  “1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant… 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit… 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;  10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will… 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.” (1 Cor. 11)

  (3) Assurance, guidance, and protection.  It is through the Holy Ghost that one receives spiritual assurance that his conduct conforms to the will of God.  The communication channel with God is opened through the spirit of prophecy.  The Holy Ghost will continue to lead those believers who remain faithful and obedient.  “17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” (John 14)  “13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” (John 16)  “5 If any of you [believers] lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1)

  Faith, through the Holy Ghost, has done many wonderful works.  “7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith… 23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment… 29 By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned. 30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days… 32 And what shall I more say?  for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: 33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. 35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection.” (Heb. 11)

  What do orthodox Christians tell us today?  These gifts of the Holy Ghost are no more.  Why?  God has not changed.  “1 Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.” (Isa. 59)  We are left to conclude they lack the Holy Spirit; and therefore have no calling of God to preach the gospel and administer its ordinances.  “This was the real cause why the extraordinary gifts of the Holy Ghost were no longer to be found in the Christian church—because the Christians were turned heathens again, and had only a dead form left.” (John Wesley’s Works, Vol. VII, 27)

After each is born of water and the spirit; he has to partake of the sacrament of bread and wine.  “53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” (John 6)

The first principles of the gospel prepare, cleanse, and adopt a person into the kingdom of heaven.  As a citizen of the kingdom it is requisite to obey all the commandments of the kingdom.  Love of God and Jesus is manifested in a godly walk.  Jesus never violated one commandment of God.  “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” (1 John 2:6)

  While a person walks on the path of light, inspired by the Holy Spirit, he has the hope of eternal life.  “24 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.” (Rom. 8)

  “1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not love, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not love, it profiteth me nothing. 4 Love suffereth long, and is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; 6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; 7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things… And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Cor. 13)

  The greatest opportunities are for those who walk on the path of light and righteousness, endure faithful in the law of God to the end, and overcome the adversary by a perfect walk.  “9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. 10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.” (John 15)  “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” (Rev. 22:14) 

“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” (John 1:12)  “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.” (Rev. 21:7)

  The approbation of the kingdom of heaven can be yours.  It is my assertion that the man who ordained me was only four generations removed from an ordination at the hands of angels, in the last gospel dispensation to the Gentiles.  Truth has no fear of investigation.  I could be the best friend you ever had.  The kingdom of God is available without money; but not without abiding in all the commandments of God.  Come with me.

  Samuel E. West
Elder in latter day Zion
www.GospelOfChrist.org
Samuel270@aol.com

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