When we read on through the New Testament we can find events where the "signs" occurred after that in the first century while the writings of the inspired authors were being recorded to bring about II Timothy 3:16-17, II Peter 1:2-4, and others.
And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen. (Mark 16:20)
8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. (I Corinthians 13:8-10)
Tongues, prophecies, knowledge and other miraculous signs and wonders were used by God to show the authenticity of the scriptures, preaching and teaching. Once the New Testament was perfected there was no longer any need to confirm again that which was initially confirmed.
3 Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. (Jude 1:3)
God's Scripture is truth and it sanctifies, sets aside for a special purpose, as given...
16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (II Timothy 3:16-17)
Step one, Romans 10:17, is hearing...
"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
We hear the word of God from verses found in the Bible, verses such as John 3:16, Mark 16:16 and others.
Step two, John 8:24, is believing what we hear...
I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins. "
Step three and step four, Acts 2:38, is turning from (changing the way you think about) your sins AND being baptized for the remission of sins.
"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission (washing away) of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
That was Peter's answer to the question posed to the Apostles in Acts 2:37 by those who were convicted of crucifying Christ "Men and brethren, what shall we do?...
"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?"
Step five, Romans 8:1, is walking after the Spirit (seeking God's will)...
" There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
John 3:16 is a powerful core verse of the Bible and is no less significant than any other. It is not a stand alone verse. It is an anchor holding God's plan of salvation; the gospel of Christ.
My friend, our little study has shown it is not enough simply believe in Christ for everlasting life. One must believe in Christ, repent of one's sins, confess him, be buried with him in baptism for the remission of sins and walk after the Spirit.
Are you in Christ?
Romans 6:3"Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?
Have you put on Christ?
"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." (Galatians 3:27)
Are your sins washed away? Here's what Ananias said to Saul the former persecutor of the Christ's church...
"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16)
Here are the plain words of Jesus...
"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 3:5)
If we can be of further help to you in your search for truth feel free to contact us any time.
Marv Walker
706 816-7190
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For Further Information Contact Marv Walker 706 816-7190