The Path to Salvation

JesusFollowerForever · Mar 7, 2025

The Path to Salvation

Salvation is not a single moment of belief but a journey that begins with God's call and continues with faith, obedience, and endurance until the end. Jesus and His disciples taught that true followers of God would remain faithful throughout their lives. This journey unfolds step by step, each guided by Scripture.

God's call is the beginning of salvation. No one comes to Him by their own effort; it is He who draws people to Himself. Jesus declared, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:44). This invitation is open to all, as Revelation confirms: “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17). Yet, the call must be heard and accepted.

Hearing God’s Word is essential. Jesus said, “He who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life” (John 5:24). But hearing alone is not enough. Revelation urges, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:7). True hearing leads to action.

The next step is repentance and faith. Jesus warned, “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3). Repentance means turning away from sin and surrendering to God. In Revelation, Jesus calls His people to repent: “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent” (Revelation 3:19). Faith in Christ follows, for “He who believes in Me has everlasting life” (John 6:47).

Those who believe are baptized, marking their new life in Christ. Jesus commanded, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mark 16:16). Baptism symbolizes being cleansed and made new, as Revelation describes: “These are the ones who washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (Revelation 7:14). This rebirth through water and Spirit is necessary to enter God’s kingdom (John 3:5).

Faith must be followed by obedience. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Revelation confirms that true believers are those “who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12). Discipleship requires daily commitment: “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23).

Yet, trials will come, and only those who endure will be saved. Jesus declared, “He who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Revelation encourages perseverance: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). Christ promises that those who overcome will reign with Him: “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne” (Revelation 3:21).

For those who remain faithful, eternal life awaits. Jesus assured, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish” (John 10:28). Revelation describes the final reward: “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life” (Revelation 22:14). The faithful will inherit God’s kingdom, as He promises, “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son” (Revelation 21:7).

Salvation is not merely a decision but a lifelong walk with God. It begins with His call, continues with repentance, faith, baptism, obedience, and perseverance, and is completed in eternal life. Jesus' final words echo through time: “Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown” (Revelation 3:11). Those who endure will see His face and dwell with Him forever.

Blessings.

NewLifeInChristJesus · Mar 8, 2025

JesusFollowerForever said:
The Path to Salvation
Salvation is not a single moment of belief but a journey that begins with God's call and continues with faith, obedience, and endurance until the end. Jesus and His disciples taught that true followers of God would remain faithful throughout their lives. This journey unfolds step by step, each guided by Scripture.

You're not Southern Baptist.

JesusFollowerForever said:
God's call is the beginning of salvation. No one comes to Him by their own effort; it is He who draws people to Himself. Jesus declared, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day” (John 6:44). This invitation is open to all, as Revelation confirms: “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17). Yet, the call must be heard and accepted.

You're not reformed.

JesusFollowerForever said:
Hearing God’s Word is essential. Jesus said, “He who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life” (John 5:24). But hearing alone is not enough. Revelation urges, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (Revelation 2:7). True hearing leads to action.

The next step is repentance and faith. Jesus warned, “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3). Repentance means turning away from sin and surrendering to God. In Revelation, Jesus calls His people to repent: “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent” (Revelation 3:19). Faith in Christ follows, for “He who believes in Me has everlasting life” (John 6:47).

Those who believe are baptized

You're not Catholic.

JesusFollowerForever said:
, marking their new life in Christ. Jesus commanded, “He who believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mark 16:16). Baptism symbolizes being cleansed and made new, as Revelation describes: “These are the ones who washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (Revelation 7:14). This rebirth through water and Spirit is necessary to enter God’s kingdom (John 3:5).

Ding, ding, ding... You're probably Church of Christ.

JesusFollowerForever said:
Faith must be followed by obedience. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Revelation confirms that true believers are those “who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus” (Revelation 14:12). Discipleship requires daily commitment: “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23).

Yet, trials will come, and only those who endure will be saved. Jesus declared, “He who endures to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13). Revelation encourages perseverance: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10). Christ promises that those who overcome will reign with Him: “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne” (Revelation 3:21).

For those who remain faithful, eternal life awaits. Jesus assured, “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish” (John 10:28). Revelation describes the final reward: “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life” (Revelation 22:14). The faithful will inherit God’s kingdom, as He promises, “He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son” (Revelation 21:7).

Salvation is not merely a decision but a lifelong walk with God. It begins with His call, continues with repentance, faith, baptism, obedience, and perseverance, and is completed in eternal life. Jesus' final words echo through time: “Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown” (Revelation 3:11). Those who endure will see His face and dwell with Him forever.

Blessings.

JesusFollowerForever · Mar 9, 2025

B Griffin said:
You're not Southern Baptist.

You're not reformed.

You're not Catholic.

Ding, ding, ding... You're probably Church of Christ.

Thank you, that was funny, in reality I am not part of any church, I follow the words of Jesus, that is who I am. I was raised in the province of Quebec, Most french speaking people there are Catholic but I do not follow that church anymore as they do not really follow the words of God.

Blessings.

NewLifeInChristJesus · Mar 9, 2025

JesusFollowerForever said:
Thank you, that was funny, in reality I am not part of any church, I follow the words of Jesus, that is who I am. I was raised in the province of Quebec, Most french speaking people there are Catholic but I do not follow that church anymore as they do not really follow the words of God.

Blessings.

Thanks for not taking offense. I suspected you might be independent as you suggested in your bio, but I couldn't resist the obvious disagreements with the denominations I mentioned. I didn't take the time to verify that the items which followed your statments on baptism aligned with the the teachings of the Church of Christ.

I do respect your independence of thought and your desires to be a follower of Jesus. Blessings to you as well.

JesusFollowerForever · Mar 10, 2025

B Griffin said:
Thanks for not taking offense. I suspected you might be independent as you suggested in your bio, but I couldn't resist the obvious disagreements with the denominations I mentioned. I didn't take the time to verify that the items which followed your statments on baptism aligned with the the teachings of the Church of Christ.

I do respect your independence of thought and your desires to be a follower of Jesus. Blessings to you as well.

There is a point about actual baptism that I am not certain however I think that Spiritual Baptism by the Holy Spirit is sufficient, but I am not 100% certain about this. I still remember that day and will never forget it.

Also I did not know there was an actual church of Christ, thank you for the info.

Blessings.

d taylor · Mar 11, 2025

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Receiving God's free gift of Eternal Life salvation, is something that happens in a moment of time. But for some it may take more than a moment of time. Because they have been exposed to incorrect teaching on receiving God's free gift of Eternal Life salvation.

So they will like John 6:27 states have to work through the mind set that false teaching (of food that perishes) has given the person. So they may eventually come to believe Eternal Life salvation, is not something to be achieved, but something to simply receive, by belief in Jesus.

So receiving Eternal life salvation the way God has planned out. Is simple and happens in a moment of time, the time it takes a person to understand and believe. That Eternal Life is only received by belief in Jesus.

Now what is believing in Jesus. well first it is not believing Jesus existed or that Jesus died on the cross for your sins, etc...

Believing in Jesus, is believing Jesus and who He says He is. Which is The Son of God/The Messiah, the resurrection and the life and believing this is how a person receives God's free gift of Eternal Life salvation.

Many know Jesus is The Son of God, but at the same time they know this. They do not believe, that believing in Jesus and that He Jesus is The Son of God/The Messiah, the resurrection and the life is how Eternal Life salvation is received.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
She said to Him, “Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.”

Wansvic · Mar 15, 2025

B Griffin said:
You're not Southern Baptist.

You're not reformed.

You're not Catholic.

Ding, ding, ding... You're probably Church of Christ.

Christian; follower of Jesus.

Keep in mind the word DOES NOT SAY be ye doers of your denominations beliefs. It says, receive with meekness the engrafted word that is able to save your soul; be doers of the Word not hearers only deceiving yourselves. (James 1:21-22)

Consider the word denominations. If the letters are twisted around something interesting is revealed. Denominations becomes Demon i nations. And what better description for institutions that pick and choose aspects of the word of God that are appealing to me, myself and I, rather than accept the sum of God's word.

Jesus said it best when the enemy challenged Him with downright deception, It is Written!

Keep in mind that Jesus said, MY sheep HEAR my VOICE... His voice is heard in the word. Those who are reborn know when the enemy is trying to deceive them. Why? Because they know what the word actually says; they've heard it straight from Jesus.

Wansvic · Mar 15, 2025

JesusFollowerForever said:
There is a point about actual baptism that I am not certain however I think that Spiritual Baptism by the Holy Spirit is sufficient, but I am not 100% certain about this. I still remember that day and will never forget it.

Also I did not know there was an actual church of Christ, thank you for the info.

Blessings.

Jesus statement concerning the need to be born of water and of Spirit actually parallels the NT instruction to be water baptized in the name of Jesus and the need to receive the Holy Ghost/Spirit.

Jesus said that repentance and remission of sin would be preached in His name to all nations beginning in Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47) And, as prophesied, the initial message was presented to Jews in Jerusalem. The group was commanded to repent, and be (water) baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for remission of sin. Those willing to believe and obey could expect at some point to receive the Holy Ghost. The account revealed that the promise was to be extended to all. (Acts 2:36-39) Afterward, the same message was presented to individuals of all nations.

Acts 2:38-39 (Jews)
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be (water) 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.
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.
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Acts 8:12-17 (Samaritans-half Jewish-half Gentile)
But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were (water) baptized, both men and women.
Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was (water) baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were (water) baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

After preaching the gospel message to the Samaritans, Philip shared the message with the eunuch. And as the record reflects the message included the need to be water baptized

Acts 8:35-40 (Eunuch)
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

Acts 10:43-48 (Gentiles)
To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Acts 11:13-14 (Gentiles)
"And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;
Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved." Peter's words included the command to be water baptized in the name of Jesus.

Acts 22:14-16 (Paul's water baptism)
And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.
For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

Acts 19:2-6 (Disciples were not aware of the NT command to be water baptized in Jesus name in association with His sacrifice)
He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.
And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.
Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

JesusFollowerForever · Mar 15, 2025

Wansvic said:
Jesus statement concerning the need to be born of water and of Spirit actually parallels the NT instruction to be water baptized in the name of Jesus and the need to receive the Holy Ghost/Spirit.

Jesus said that repentance and remission of sin would be preached in His name to all nations beginning in Jerusalem. (Luke 24:47) And, as prophesied, the initial message was presented to Jews in Jerusalem. The group was commanded to repent, and be (water) baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for remission of sin. Those willing to believe and obey could expect at some point to receive the Holy Ghost. The account revealed that the promise was to be extended to all. (Acts 2:36-39) Afterward, the same message was presented to individuals of all nations.

Acts 2:38-39 (Jews)
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be (water) 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.
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.
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Acts 8:12-17 (Samaritans-half Jewish-half Gentile)
But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were (water) baptized, both men and women.
Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was (water) baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost:
(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were (water) baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)
Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

After preaching the gospel message to the Samaritans, Philip shared the message with the eunuch. And as the record reflects the message included the need to be water baptized

Acts 8:35-40 (Eunuch)
Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Caesarea.

Acts 10:43-48 (Gentiles)
To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

Acts 11:13-14 (Gentiles)
"And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;
Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved." Peter's words included the command to be water baptized in the name of Jesus.

Acts 22:14-16 (Paul's water baptism)
And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth.
For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.
And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

Acts 19:2-6 (Disciples were not aware of the NT command to be water baptized in Jesus name in association with His sacrifice)
He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.
And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.
Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

Thank you for clarifying I will seriously consider and study this further but it does make sense.

Blessings.

d taylor · Mar 15, 2025

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If a person never comes to believe, it is only by belief in Jesus, they receive God's free gift of Eternal Life salvation. Then they will follow a path straight to the great white throne judgment and the lake of fire.

Repentance, baptism, obedience, confessing Jesus as Lord, saying a prayer, etc none of these listed raised Lazarus from the grave. So none of these have the power to give people The Life of God.

So if you want God's free gift of God's life, you must believe in the person who raised Lazarus from the grave. Who only is Jesus The Son of God/The Messiah, the resurrection and the life.

This belief is not believing Jesus lived or is a real person or even that Jesus died for you and your sin. The belief must be in Jesus believing Jesus is The Son of God /The Messiah, the resurrection and the life and this belief is how a person receives Eternal Life salvation.

Wansvic · Mar 15, 2025

d taylor said:
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If a person never comes to believe, it is only by belief in Jesus, they receive God's free gift of Eternal Life salvation. Then they will follow a path straight to the great white throne judgment and the lake of fire.

Repentance, baptism, obedience, confessing Jesus as Lord, saying a prayer, etc none of these listed raised Lazarus from the grave. So none of these have the power to give people The Life of God.

So if you want God's free gift of God's life, you must believe in the person who raised Lazarus from the grave. Who only is Jesus The Son of God/The Messiah, the resurrection and the life.

This belief is not believing Jesus lived or is a real person or even that Jesus died for you and your sin. The belief must be in Jesus believing Jesus is The Son of God /The Messiah, the resurrection and the life and this belief is how a person receives Eternal Life salvation.

Notice what Jesus told those who believed on him. IF you continue in my word THEN are you my disciples and you will know the truth and that truth will set you free. (John 8:30-32)

Also note Hebrews 5:9, "And being made perfect, he (Jesus) became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.

Obedience is the key.
Jesus said, "...Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." (Mark 16:15-16) See Acts 2:4-41, 8:12-18, 10:43-48, 19:1-7.

JesusFollowerForever · Mar 15, 2025

Something i wrote a while ago about obedience

The Theology of Obedience: The Vine and Branches from Genesis to Revelation

Obedience to God stands as a central theme in Scripture, a living bond that stretches unbroken from the fertile ground of Eden to the fruitful courts of the New Jerusalem. It is not a minor rule or a passing growth; it is the life giving connection between humanity and its Creator, weaving together love, authority, consequence, and redemption, and finding its fullest expression in the perfect obedience of Jesus Christ as the sacrificial Lamb. Using the New King James Version, we explore this doctrine with care, to reveal its richness across the biblical story.

The story of obedience begins in Genesis, where God’s first command plants the seed of human purpose. “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die,” the Lord states in Genesis 2:16-17. Here, obedience is not a heavy burden but a source of life, a call to trust the Creator’s wisdom. Yet, Genesis 3:6 marks a tragic break: “So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food … she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate.” In this first act of disobedience, Adam and Eve cut themselves off from God’s care, choosing their own way over His, and the result is decay—death, exile, and a broken world. From the very start, Scripture shows obedience as the root of blessing or curse, a truth later expanded in Deuteronomy 28. There, God’s covenant promises ring clear: “If you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God … all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you” (Deuteronomy 28:1-2), set against the warning, “If you do not obey … all these curses will come upon you” (Deuteronomy 28:15). Obedience is not random; it is the natural link between creature and Creator, the flow of life in a world shaped by a sovereign God who declares in Isaiah 45:12, “I have made the earth, and created man on it. I—My hands—stretched out the heavens, and all their host I have commanded.” To obey is to stay connected to this source; to rebel is to wither, as Isaiah 45:9 asks, “Shall the clay say to him who forms it, ‘What are you making?’”

Humanity’s history, however, is marked by repeated disconnection, a pattern seen not just in Eden but in lives like Jonah’s, whose refusal of God’s call leads to a fish’s belly and divine correction (Jonah 1:3, 2:10). This struggle points to our need for a stronger bond, one beyond our own strength. Jesus, the obedient Son, steps in to restore it. In Matthew 26:39, under Gethsemane’s dark branches, He prays, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” Luke 22:42-44 adds depth: “Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done … And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood.” This is obedience at its peak—not a lifeless surrender but a costly, heartfelt choice to align with the Father’s will. Jesus, fully human, feels the weight of the cross yet stays rooted, reversing Eden’s failure. Where Adam and Eve took forbidden fruit, Jesus offers His life, becoming the Lamb who, as John 1:29 says, “takes away the sin of the world.” John 10:17-18 explains further: “I lay down My life … No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. … This command I have received from My Father.” His obedience is intentional and powerful, fulfilling the Father’s plan not as a victim but as a willing sacrifice.

This obedience is not a standalone act; it is the heart of Scripture’s message. Jesus connects it to love in John 14:15—“If you love Me, keep My commandments”—and lives it out in John 15:10: “I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.” For Jesus and for us, obedience is the flow of love, the way to remain close to God. But our human efforts often fall short without help. Ezekiel 36:27offers hope: “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes,” a promise of the Spirit’s strength fulfilled in Christ’s followers. John echoes this in 1 John 5:3: “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome,” pointing to a grace that makes obedience possible. Abraham’s offering of Isaac in Genesis 22 shows this trust in action, relying on God’s promise (Genesis 22:8, “God will provide for Himself the lamb”). Obedience in hard times, as James 1:22 urges—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only”—grows strong when grounded in faith.

The purpose of obedience bears fruit in Revelation, where the connection to God ripens fully. Revelation 22:14 states, “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.” What Adam lost through disobedience—the tree of life (Genesis 3:22-24)—is regained through obedience in Christ. This is not a rigid demand; it is the natural outcome of a restored relationship, matching God’s good will, as Jeremiah 29:11 assures, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Obedience honors God, as Matthew 5:16adapts: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” From Genesis’s first command to Revelation’s final reward, obedience is the path of redemption, a response to a God who calls in love, strengthens by grace, and leads to eternal life.

Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane—“not as I will, but as You will”—is the moment of greatest fruitfulness, linking Eden’s loss to Revelation’s gain. It shows obedience as both costly and life giving, human and divine, personal and universal. Through Scripture, from the first break in Eden to the final restoration at the tree of life, obedience is the call to stay connected, to love, and to grow under the Creator’s care, perfectly shown in the Lamb who obeyed unto death so we might live and bear fruit.

Blessings.

d taylor · Mar 15, 2025

Wansvic said:
Notice what Jesus told those who believed on him. IF you continue in my word THEN are you my disciples and you will know the truth and that truth will set you free. (John 8:30-32)

Also note Hebrews 5:9, "And being made perfect, he (Jesus) became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.

Obedience is the key.
Jesus said, "...Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." (Mark 16:15-16) See Acts 2:4-41, 8:12-18, 10:43-48, 19:1-7.

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Being a disciple has nothing to do with an unbelieving person becoming a believer and receiving God's free gift of Eternal life.

Becoming a disciple is something a person who has already believed in Jesus for Eternal Life, may then pursue.

Hazelelponi · Mar 18, 2025

JesusFollowerForever said:
There is a point about actual baptism that I am not certain however I think that Spiritual Baptism by the Holy Spirit is sufficient, but I am not 100% certain about this. I still remember that day and will never forget it.

Also I did not know there was an actual church of Christ, thank you for the info.

Blessings.

Being sealed with the Holy Spirit is what is salvific and if a person dies before they can be baptized or if for some reason they can't be baptized then they are still saved.

However, we do in obedience (and as part of our public confession of faith), and we do so joyfully.

If we are able to be baptized the Spirit will push us to do just that.

But yes, we should be baptized but in a rare case you don't have to be, the salvific experience already occurred.

JesusFollowerForever · Mar 18, 2025

Thank you this is useful.

Blessings.

Wansvic · Mar 19, 2025

Hazelelponi said:
Being sealed with the Holy Spirit is what is salvific and if a person dies before they can be baptized or if for some reason they can't be baptized then they are still saved.

However, we do in obedience (and as part of our public confession of faith), and we do so joyfully.

If we are able to be baptized the Spirit will push us to do just that.

But yes, we should be baptized but in a rare case you don't have to be, the salvific experience already occurred.

Many fail to realize the Ephesian 1:13 specifically states people put their trust in Jesus and were sealed AFTER hearing the word of truth/gospel of salvation. What word of truth led to the individuals being sealed with the Holy Ghost? (See Acts 19 below)

The letter to the Ephesians was written to the church in 60 A.D. Paul’s letter reminded the Ephesians that they trusted in Jesus after hearing the word of truth the gospel of their salvation. He goes on to say, in Jesus after you believed you were sealed with the Holy Ghost. (Ephesians 1:13) Paul’s comment relates to the twelve Ephesians in Acts 19:1-7. Their experience mirrors those who believed and obeyed the initial message given at Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-38)

In the year 53 A.D., during Paul’s third mission campaign, he instructed Ephesians of the need to believe on Jesus and to be re-baptized in water in the name of the Lord Jesus. Clearly they trusted in Jesus because they submitted to being re-baptized. Afterward Paul laid hands upon them and they received the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in tongues. (Acts 19:1-6) This parallels what Paul stated in Ephesians 1:13. They heard and obeyed the message and were sealed with the Holy Ghost.

The Acts 19 account continues with Paul joining the newly converted disciples and persuading others concerning the kingdom of God. This went on for 3 months. (Acts 19:7-8) Paul departed from the synagogue when people began refusing to accept the truth. Paul took the disciples who believed and obeyed “The Way” (Acts 19:1-6) and disputed daily in the school of Tyrannus for 2 years. (Acts 19:9) This enabled all in Asia (Jews and Gentiles) to hear the word of the Lord Jesus as prophesied in Acts 1:1-2.

"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,
He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.

And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.
Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.

When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
AND when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

And all the men were about twelve.
And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.
But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks." Acts 19:1-10

Wansvic · Mar 19, 2025

JesusFollowerForever said:
Thank you this is useful.

Blessings.

Many fail to realize the Ephesian 1:13 specifically states people put their trust in Jesus and were sealed AFTER hearing the word of truth/gospel of salvation. What word of truth led to the individuals being sealed with the Holy Ghost? Paul preached Jesus and re-baptized the men in the name of Jesus. And afterward they received the Holy Ghost. (Acts 19 below)

The letter to the Ephesians was written to the church in 60 A.D. Paul’s letter reminded the Ephesians that they trusted in Jesus after hearing the word of truth the gospel of their salvation. He goes on to say, in Jesus after you believed you were sealed with the Holy Ghost. (Ephesians 1:13) Paul’s comment relates to the twelve Ephesians in Acts 19:1-7. Their experience mirrors those who believed and obeyed the initial message given at Pentecost. (Acts 2:36-38)

In the year 53 A.D., during Paul’s third mission campaign, he instructed Ephesians of the need to believe on Jesus and to be re-baptized in water in the name of the Lord Jesus. Clearly they trusted in Jesus because they submitted to being re-baptized. Afterward Paul laid hands upon them and they received the Holy Ghost evidenced by speaking in tongues. (Acts 19:1-6) This parallels what Paul stated in Ephesians 1:13. They heard and obeyed the message and were sealed with the Holy Ghost.

The Acts 19 account continues with Paul joining the newly converted disciples and persuading others concerning the kingdom of God. This went on for 3 months. (Acts 19:7-8) Paul departed from the synagogue when people began refusing to accept the truth. Paul took the disciples who believed and obeyed “The Way” (Acts 19:1-6) and disputed daily in the school of Tyrannus for 2 years. (Acts 19:9) This enabled all in Asia (Jews and Gentiles) to hear the word of the Lord Jesus as prophesied in Acts 1:1-2.

"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,
He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.

And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism.
Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.

When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
AND when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

And all the men were about twelve.
And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God.
But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

And this continued by the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks." Acts 19:1-10

Jan001 · Mar 31, 2025

JesusFollowerForever said:
There is a point about actual baptism that I am not certain however I think that Spiritual Baptism by the Holy Spirit is sufficient, but I am not 100% certain about this. I still remember that day and will never forget it.

Also I did not know there was an actual church of Christ, thank you for the info.

Blessings.

Many people claim to be "born again" because they had an emotional experience when they repented and confessed their sins.

However, in John 3:5, Jesus is talking about the water baptism that he commands in Matthew 28:18-20.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.

Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 5:26 in order to make her holy by cleansing her with the washing of water by the word, (I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit)

Wansvic · Apr 1, 2025

Jan001 said:
Many people claim to be "born again" because they had an emotional experience when they repented and confessed their sins.

However, in John 3:5, Jesus is talking about the water baptism that he commands in Matthew 28:18-20.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.

Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 5:26 in order to make her holy by cleansing her with the washing of water by the word, (I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit)

And the name referenced in Matthew 28:19 is Jesus. The apostles obeyed Jesus command and water baptized in his name. See: Acts 2:38, 8:12-18,10:43-48, 19:1-7, 22:16.

Jan001 · Apr 15, 2025

Wansvic said:
And the name referenced in Matthew 28:19 is Jesus. The apostles obeyed Jesus command and water baptized in his name. See: Acts 2:38, 8:12-18,10:43-48, 19:1-7, 22:16.

"In his name" is an idiom.

It refers to the command that Jesus gave to his apostles in Matthew 28:18-20. Baptism is what Jesus states will make people his disciples. The Father and the Holy Spirit must also be invoked in order to become born of water and Spirit.

John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.

The Path to Salvation

Disciple of Jesus