en Experience Life! http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com © Copyright 2000 - 2008Church Community Builder. All Rights Reserved. http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=1&article_id=207 Whether you are just visiting or looking for a church family we welcome you! Thank you for taking time to visit our website. While you are here we encourage you to explore our website and get connected with LifeChurch Pasadena. Experience life at LifeChurch! Please visit with us. Sunday School: 11:00 a.m. / Sunday Worship Service at noon. Thu, 5 Jun 2008 23:56:13 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=70 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=70&article_id=237 This is a rendering of what the new building could look like. Thu, 5 Jun 2008 23:54:27 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=70 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=70&article_id=235 "And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved" Acts 2:47 We believe that building a new 9000 sq.ft. sanctuary on our present campus would provide a solution to our space predicament. The project would provide around 50 more parking spaces than we currently have. This vision includes everyone. It's a about building a future for Children, Youth, Families, and our Communities. Help us pray that God's will be done! Wed, 4 Jun 2008 01:33:57 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14&article_id=8 Tamara (Keller) Brown Tamara Keller was born in San Bernardino, CA on January 13, 1977. She was the firstborn child of Rev. David and Mrs. Marta Keller. Tamara has been continuously involved in music ministry since a very young age and has a passion for Praise and Worship. She is a great help to her husband and a very loving and dedicated mother. Tamara and Richard Brown Richard and Tamara were married September 25, 1999. God led them to evangelize for 3 ½ years, and their travels took them all over the United States. In April of 2003, they were joined to the Pasadena UPC (LifeChurch) family, assuming the role of pastor. God has blessed them with two lovely daughters, Caymbria and Brooklyn. The Browns have a burden for lost souls and a vision for the future of the church. Certainly, the best days for the LifeChurch are ahead. Tue, 3 Jun 2008 14:29:19 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=31 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=31&article_id=53 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His Name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. Psalms 29:2 Let the people praise thee O God: let all the people praise thee. Psalms 67:3 We Clap Our Hands and Give Praise With a Loud Voice O clap your hands all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph. Psalms 47:1 Why We Pray Together - "They lifted up their voice to God with one accord"(Acts 4:24). Why We Lift Our Hands - "Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord"(Psalm 134:2). Why We Sing Aloud - "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise"(Psalm 98:4). Why We Play Musical Instruments - "And all the house of Israel played before the LORD on all manner of instruments"(2 Samuel 6:5). Why We Clap Our Hands - "O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph"(Psalm 47:1). Why We Dance Before The Lord - "Praise Him with the timbrel and dance: praise Him with stringed instruments and organs" (Psalm 150:4). Why We Testify Publicly - "I will declare thy name unto my brethren; in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee"(Psalm 22:22). Why Anoint With Oil For Divine Healing - "Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord"(James 5:14). Why The Operation Of Spiritual Gifts - "When ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation"(1 Corinthians 14:26). Why We Worship In This Way But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers 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. John 4:23-24 Mon, 2 Jun 2008 20:04:14 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=32 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=32&article_id=71 Life church embraces the new birth message preached on the day of Pentecost, which we arrange around a convenient acronym, L.I.F.E., Leading to new birth experience; Integrating into the family of God; Forming into mature Christian; Equipping for their unique ministry. Where is this Life found? In Jesus Christ. He said "I am the way the truth and the life..." (John 14:6). "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17). "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life." John 6:4 Mon, 2 Jun 2008 19:52:57 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=69 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=69&article_id=231 Mon, 2 Jun 2008 18:31:25 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=194 Enter your email address to subscribe to LifeChurch Podcast: Delivered by FeedBurner Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:35:44 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=63&article_id=162 Podcasts are like a combination between a TV/radio program and a magazine subscription. You can subscribe to podcasts, and when a new "episode" is available, it is downloaded automatically onto your computer for you to listen to. It's all FREE. You now have the ability to automatically download desired content to your computer or iPod, PDA, CELLPHONE, or other portable listening device. As part of our service to you, you will receive your own podcast feed which can be plugged into a variety of networks, such as iTunes. HOW TO SUBSCRIBE TO LifeChurch Podcast Subscribe in a reader Subscribing to podcasts has been made much easier thanks to the music software (PC + Mac). Here are the steps necessary to subscribe to LifeChurch Podcast using iTunes: Download and install the latest version of the Apple iTunes software; a version is available for both PC and Mac, so make sure you grab the correct version. You can also download juice Podcast Receiver. Subscribe to the LIFECHURCH Podcast using iTunes. (podcast is free) In your iTune window click "ADVANCE" ..click Subscribe to this Podcast and copy and paste this link (http://www.sermonfeed.com/lifechurchpasadena/) in the pop up window. If you are using Netscape Browser copy the script in the pop window. Every week, use the "Update" button on the iTunes Podcast page to check for new messages. To listen to LIFECHURCH messages on your iPod, simply plug it in to sync your library; new podcasts will be added automatically!For more information go to the Sermon Player, at the lower right click PODCAST.If you would like to listen to sermons on your CELLPHONE here is the link. (http://www.sermonplayer.mobi/lifechurchpasadena) Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:35:44 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=68 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=68&article_id=210 Click below to listen to our Live Sunday Service. (Available 12:00pm) Mon, 31 Mar 2008 21:01:48 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=183 Christianity Today www.christianitytoday.com Sermon Player Network www.sermon.net Fri, 29 Feb 2008 14:04:26 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=54&article_id=125 Photo AlbumRevival 2007 Photo AlbumRededication Service Photo Album Azusa Street Centennial Celebration 2006 Recently Added Photo Album Fri, 4 Jan 2008 21:56:40 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62&article_id=153 Thank you for visiting LifeChurch on the web. At LifeChurch we are excited about serving Jesus! Whether you are just visiting or looking for a church family we welcome you! We have put some information together to help you understand what we're about. Thank you for taking some time to get to know us. While you are here we encourage you to explore our website and get connected with LifeChurch Pasadena. Here you will find relevant information regarding our church.Easy to use Google's map for your convenience. Get Direction to our location.Get a Visual experience through the Photo Gallery.Get an Audio experience through our sermons. Listen to SermonsWe are happy to take your need in prayer. Email a Prayer Request or Contact Us. Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:17:05 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=2&article_id=2 Our church is a community of believers with Jesus Christ as its head. We seek to love, respect and care for one another as a demonstration of our love for God. Our outreach is to those who have no church home. Many in our area are disillusioned with religion. They have felt the sting of legalism with its impossible demands. Some have seen hypocrisy. Others have had no religious background and therefore see Christianity as irrelevant. The missing element has been healthy relationships with mature believers in Jesus. Our Vision Our vision is to reach our community and make a difference in the lives they live through the good new of Jesus Christ. We believe we can accomplish this through helping people discover God's purpose for their life through teamwork, creativity and excellence. Tue, 26 Jun 2007 20:47:42 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=19&article_id=12 The first meeting of our church was at the corner of Los Robles and Orange Grove in Pasadena in the early 1940's. From there the church relocated to the corner of Rosemead and Del Mar in East Pasadena. This was during the Second World War, and on a number of occasions there were blackouts during the services. The pastor of the church during these early years was Bro. David Gray. It was not long until Bro. Clyde Haney became the pastor. Both of these men are known worldwide as pioneers of the Pentecostal Message. The current property and building was secured and erected under the pastorate of Bro. Haney. There were some key saints, such as Bro. Charles J. Goodwin, who helped in the securing of the property and the building of the facility. The basement of the church was completed first, and services were held there temporarily. The building was constructed from used lumber, and the ladies and older children pulled out nails during the day so the men could use the wood for construction in the evenings. The building was constructed, using mostly volunteer labor, during the Second World War. Over the years, the blessings of God have been upon this congregation. Many saints and Godly leaders cantrace their roots through Pasadena UPC. Even the General Superintendent of the United Pentecostal International, Bro. Kenneth Haney, received the Holy Ghost in this church. God has blessed this Church with many fine pastors over the last 60 years. The list of former pastors includes Odell Thorton, Rev. Hunnicutt, Albert Cagle, Edgar Langford, Jr., Jessie Arnold, James Silvernale and Frances Mason. In 1977, Rev. Euell Watts, Jr. assumed the pastorate of the Pasadena UPC. From 1977 until March of 2003, Bro. Watts faithfully led a fine congregation of believers. During his pastorate, many were baptized in Jesus name, Filled with the Holy Ghost, and formed into mature disciples. In April of 2003, Rev. and Mrs. Richard A. Brown were joined to the Pasadena UPC family, assuming the roleof pastor. Pastor Brown comes with a burden for lost souls and a vision for the future of the church. Certainly, the best days for the Pasadena United Pentecostal Church are ahead of us. In 2005 the name of the church was changed to Life Church. The Year 2006 it was furbished and dedicated. Tue, 26 Jun 2007 20:47:05 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60&article_id=173 New sermons are added weekly. Subscribe to this Podcast Mon, 18 Jun 2007 22:55:22 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=60&article_id=147 Wed, 13 Jun 2007 04:34:46 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=16 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=16&article_id=7 Youth Website www.jpositive.com Check out Youth Convention 2007 on YouTube Fri, 1 Jun 2007 19:22:26 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=25&article_id=186 Check out Establishing Dating Guidelines for Your Teen by Dennis and Barbara Rainey. Tue, 29 May 2007 12:10:38 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=178 Youth Ministry Ladies Ministry Men's Ministry Sunday school Ministry Music Ministry Tue, 29 May 2007 11:34:26 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=177 Sunday School - For children of all ages Adult Bible classes Youth Bible classes Tue, 29 May 2007 11:33:55 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=62&article_id=164 Life Church is an Apostolic Pentecostal Church with a strong emphasis on the Repentance, Baptism of the Holy Spirit, and Water Baptism in Jesus name. You'll receive life changing, relevant Bible teaching and amazing worship at each service you attend. At LifeChurch, the people are friendly and encouraging! We encourage you to come expecting God to do great things in you life each time you enter the sanctuary. We are a revival focused church. Reaching our community of all nationality is one of our priority, and that is evident by by the cultural diversity that makes up our church family. To learn more about LifeChurch, we welcome you to "experience L.I.F.E." that's making a difference. We pray that your life will be transformed by the Word of God at LifeChurch, and that you will become apart of our church family. Tue, 29 May 2007 09:36:24 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=185 City Of Pasadena California www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/ Union Station Foundation www.unionstationfoundation.org/ Tue, 29 May 2007 03:31:41 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=184 Apostolic Pentecostal Churches On The Web www.apostolic-pentecostal-churches.net/ Tue, 29 May 2007 03:31:10 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=182 Apostolic Information Center www.apostolic.edu Apostolic Network www.apostolic.net Tue, 29 May 2007 02:33:33 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=181 United Pentecostal Church Int'l Website www.upci.org Western District Youth www.wdyouth.org Apostolic Publishing House www.pentecostalpublishing.com/ Word Aflame www.upci.org/wap/ Spirit Of Freedom www.sofm.org Sunday School Division www.sundayschooldivision.org/ Ready To Be Free www.readytobefree.com Youth Division www.pentecostalyouth.rog Tue, 29 May 2007 02:32:18 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=17&article_id=9 Whitesteeple Apostolic Books & Music www.whitesteeple.com ChristianBooks.com www.christianbook.com Lighthouse Christian Stores www.lighthousestores.com Tue, 29 May 2007 02:31:37 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=56&article_id=131 Monday: Pray for their inner life and growth. For spiritual disciplines. For confidence in God's Sovereignty when things go wrong. For God's mighty touch in relieving stress. TUESDAY: For their Relationships. With their wife and children, with coworkers, with sinners, and with authorities in the country. WEDNESDAY: Special needs in a foreign culture. Mastering the language. Defense against loneliness, homesickness, frustration. Insights into how to communicate the truth. God's sovereign working in government decisions and politics. THURSDAY: For God to empower them for their work. For his blessing on their evangelism, discipling, and church responsibilites. Friday: The nitty-gritty. Physical health. Financial provision. Coping with red tape. Wise use of time. For strength and faith in trials that they will take adequate time for their health, relaxing, and vacations. SATURDAY: VICTORY! Against Satan as he seeks to keep people blinded to the Gospel and thwart the growth of the church. Tue, 29 May 2007 01:34:41 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=50 At Life Church, we believe that every Member is to be a Minister. We also believe that it is the job of the pastors to equip people for Ministry. The Ministry aspect of Life Church serves to provide training and placement into opportunities to serve. Let us help you find your Purpose in Life! Tue, 29 May 2007 01:19:39 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=180 Foreign and Local Missionaries Tue, 29 May 2007 01:18:10 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=29&article_id=179 Neighborhood Sunday School Outreach Door-to-door Witnessing L.A. Missions Outreach Tue, 29 May 2007 01:13:25 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=59&article_id=151 Nuestra meta es de alcanzar nuestra comunidad Hispana para Cristo. Nuestra oracion es que Dios llene la necesidad en su vida por la enseñanza poderosa de la Palabra de Dios. Los servicios son contenidos en el santuario, los domingos a las 5 de la tarde. Nos vemos pronto! Mon, 21 May 2007 15:37:14 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=44&article_id=96 When walking out of a dark room into the sunshine, light can be blinding. As our eyes become accustomed to the light, we can see more clearly and enjoy the scenery that surrounds us. Likewise, when we look into the light of the scriptures, the brightness of truth can sometimes hurt. However, as our spiritual eyesight becomes adjusted we can enjoy "walking in the light". This Bible study is designed to allow us to "walk" into the marvelous light of the Word of God. We will be journeying into the scriptures by imagining we are back in the days of Jesus and the Apostles, listening to them teach and preach the plan of salvation. In order to do this, we will be careful to "rightly" divide the word of the truth (2 Timothy 2:15) by concentrating on the highlights of the three main divisions of the New Testament in chronological order, including:THE GOSPELS - covering the words and works of Jesus ChristTHE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES - covering the actions and preaching of the ApostlesTHE EPISTLES - covering the letters written by the Apostles to the churches they started in the Book of Acts. We believe the scriptures are divinely inspired and, "of no private interpretation" (2 Peter 1:20-21) . Therefore, every effort has been made to present the pure Word of God without adding to, or taking away from its teachings (Deuteronomy 4:2, Proverbs 30:5-6) . It is not our intention to diminish any personal relationship you may have with our Lord. Neither do we desire to convince you of our own personal ideas or the creeds of any denomination. We simply desire to share the truth as it is written. Only by claiming the Bible as our sole authority can any of us be confident of our salvation, for it is the Word of God and not the traditions of men that will judge us all in the end. Let us read 2 Timothy 3:15-16 as we begin our journey into the Word of God... John 1:1-5 & 14 In the beginning, the Word was God and became flesh. Jesus Christ is the Living Word of God . John 1:11-13 If we believe in Him and receive Him, Jesus gives us power to become the sons of God by a supernatural birth. He spoke further about this new birth one night to a ruler of the Jews... John 3:1-8 The Lord told Nicodemus that everyone who wanted to see or enter into the Kingdom of God, must be born again of water and the Spirit. John 3:16-21 Jesus also told Nicodemus that whosoever believeth in Him should have eternal life. Jesus mentioned two seemingly different requirements for salvation. One is being born again. The other is believing. yet, this is not a contradiction. The next scripture explains how believing is related to experiencing the birth of the Spirit... John 7:38-39 Here, we discover that if we believe on Him (according to the Word), we will receive the Spirit. We find that scriptural belief is more than just a change in the way we think. It also results in a scriptural experience. John 12:35-36 & 42-43 Today, just as in Jesus' day, many believe on Him. But, they will not confess Him for fear of what others will do or say. John 12:44 In response to their fearfulness, Jesus warns that His Spirit will judge us, so we must be careful not to reject it. Rather, we should believe and obey it... no matter what others say... John 17:17-20 In Jesus' prayer for his disciples, just before His crucifixion, He said God's Word is truth. He also prayed for us; and for all those who would believe on Him through the Apostles' word. To find out what the Apostles' word was to be, let us read what Jesus told them to proclaim. The setting of the following great commission scripture in Luke 24:45-49 is just after the Lord's death, burial and resurrection... and just before His ascension into heaven. "Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning in Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. DID THE APOSTLES PREACH THE MESSAGE JESUS COMMANDED THEM TO PROCLAIM? HOW WAS THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER FULFILLED? Let us continue our journey into the Word of God by seeing what was preached and what happened at Jerusalem... Acts 1:3-5 As we enter the Book of Acts, we discover almost immediately that the promise of the Father is the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:1-17 When the Apostles were at Jerusalem, they, along with many others, were joyously filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave the utterance (ability to speak). The amazed onlookers from many nations who heard them speaking with tongues asked, 'What meaneth this?" Then Peter explained the promised coming of the Spirit and went on to preach Christ and the original apostolic plan of salvation. Acts 2:36-38 When the people who heard Peter's words believed that Jesus Christ was their Lord and Savior, they were sorry for their sins and asked Peter and the Apostles what they should do. Peter replied by preaching the message Jesus commanded to be preached in Luke 24:45-49 . In light of this, consider the three elements of the Plan of Salvation that Peter preached in verse 38: 1. REPENTANCE 2. REMISSION OF SINS THROUGH BAPTISM IN JESUS' NAME 3. RECEIVING THE GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST NOTICE: Acts 2:38 is the fulfillment of the birth requirements Jesus mentioned in John 3:5 that were necessary to enter the Kingdom of God.water birth baptism in the name of Jesus Christ!filling of the Holy Ghost! Now, let's look at some more examples of people being born again of water and the Spirit as the Word Jesus gave His apostles continued to be preached throughout the Book of Acts... Phillip preaching to the Samaritans in Acts 8 NOTICE: Some people say when they experienced joy; or when they believed in Jesus, or when they were baptized, they were automatically filled with the Holy Ghost. But what does the Word say? Acts 8:5-8Did they have great joy? Acts 8:12 Were they baptized in His name? Did they believe in Jesus Christ? Acts 8:14-17 * Did they receive the Holy Ghost as a separate and distinct experience? Peter preaching to the Gentiles in Acts 10 NOTICE: Some people say being religious is enough, or that the Spirit-baptism evidenced by tongues was only for the day of Pentecost. If the Bible says this is true, then it is true. But the Word shows us through Cornelius' experience that this is not true... then it is not.... Acts 10:1-2 * Was Cornelius a religious man? Acts 10:5-6 * Did God have more for him to do? Acts 10:44-46 * Did they receive the Holy Ghost and speak in tongues after the day of Pentecost? Acts 10:47-48 * Did they still have to be baptized in Jesus' name? Paul preaching to John's disciples in Acts 19 NOTICE: Many people who are believers have not even heard about the Holy Ghost that is promised to them. Also, some people say it is not necessary to be baptized or re-baptize (if you were baptized by John the Baptist, would you think it would be necessary to be re-baptized using a different baptismal formula?) Others say it does not matter what is spoken when you are baptized. If the Bible indicates it does not matter, then it does not matter...but, what if the Bible shows us it DOES matter? Acts 19:1-2 * They were believers, but had they heard of or received the Holy Ghost? Acts 19:3-5 * Did those baptized by John the Baptist have to be re-baptized in Jesus' name? Acts 19:6 * Was receiving the Holy Ghost accompanied by the initial evidence of speaking in other tongues? We have found that the Apostles preached the following message: ...the life of Christ and His death, burial and resurrection ...repentance toward God and belief in Jesus Christ baptism in water by immersion in Jesus' name ...receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost (which was accompanied by the initial evidence of speaking with other tongues) Now, let us read what the Apostles had to say about the message of salvation they proclaimed in the Book of Acts. We can do this by reading the epistles (letters) they wrote to their converts. Supplemental Study Scriptures As we read the Epistles, we will notice how strongly the Apostles felt about the gospel (good news) of salvation. This is not because they were being judgmental, it is because they knew the Word Jesus had given them to proclaim was going to judge all men. What did Peter say? "Ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth.. being born again.. by the word of God.. and this is the word which by gospel is preached unto you." (I Peter 1:22-25) Peter asked a question: "...What shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?" (I Peter 4:17-18) (1) Matthew 7:13-24 NOTE: God's warning regarding false prophets and the importance of being a doer and not just a hearer of the Word. (2) Matthew 16:15-19 NOTE: Peter was given the "keys of the kingdom" because of his revelation of who Jesus Christ was. Paul Gave the answer: "The Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and the obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power." (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9) What did Paul say? "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another, but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other..." (3) Other "Great Commission" scriptures": NOTE: In Matthew 28:18-20 the word "name" is singular in this command to baptize. The Apostles obeyed this command when they bapitzed only in the name of Jesus, and did not use the titles mentioned here. (see Acts 4:12 ) Mark 16:15-18 . The importance of water baptism and the signs following believers. (4) Matthew 16:15-19 NOTE: Peter, who was given the "keys of the kingdom", uses them to open the "kingdom door" by preaching the original apostolic message of salvation for the first time. (5) Acts 8:35-39 NOTE: Philip must have mentioned baptism when he preached Jesus to the Eunuch, because the Eunuch asked to be baptized in water. The Greek root word for baptize is "bapto", which literally means to cover wholly with fluid, to dip. (see also Romans 6:3-4 ). (6) Acts 10:34-43 NOTE: Peter preached the life and lordship of Jesus Christ as well as His death, burial and resurrection. (7) I Peter 3:20-21 NOTE: According to Peter baptism is an essential part of the plan of salvation. We encourage you to read through the Gospels... in detail... and continue to walk "into His marvelous light"! Sat, 19 May 2007 02:45:22 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=55&article_id=149 Exploring God's Word In Acts 20:20 it says, "And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shown you, and taught you publicly, and from house to house". Home Bible study was the Apostle Paul's way in the early church days, and it is still God's chosen way for people to learn more about the Bible today. God is always pleased when people open their house to the study of His word. May God bless your understanding during this series of lessons. The Oneness of the God One of the most misunderstood of Bible truths today, is the doctrine of the Godhead. The most universally accepted view of the Godhead in denominations today, is the teaching of the Trinity. This view basically states that God is three distinct persons who are co-equal in power, knowledge, and existence. The word trinity is never mentioned in the Bible, but the existence of One God is mentioned many times in scripture. Why is it important to know about the Godhead? Jesus said in John 8:24, "I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins; for if you believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins". We also read of Jesus saying, "All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him" (Luke 10:22). These verses tell us that if we don't want to die in our sins, we must know who Jesus is, and the only way to know who Jesus is, is by revelation from Jesus Himself. If you have never received that revelation for yourself, it is our hope that this lesson will give you the knowledge to receive for yourself the true Bible doctrine of the Oneness of God. Victorious Living Jesus death, burial, and resurrection have assured us victory every day of our lives. He has done it all for us, but we must use the tools outline in the Word to experience this victorious living. These basic Bible studies will definitely help us live as winners. The New Birth The New Birth attempts to present biblical truth in an understandable yet scholarly way, not from the viewpoint of denominational dogma but from the viewpoint of what the Bible itself says. Numerous biblical references have been included so that the reader can search these things out and come to his or her own conclusions. If the reader approaches this subject with a prayerful, sincere, truth-seeking, studious attitude (rather than with a prejudiced or even a gullible mind), God will illuminate the truth of His Word as it relates to salvation. Sat, 19 May 2007 02:41:32 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=13 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=13&article_id=150 Union Station Foundation The mission of Union Station Foundation (USF) is to provide homeless and poor men, women and children with the means to transform their lives so they can become productive, stable and self-supporting. We believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual and strive to provide the highest quality of services based on a foundation of respect for all people. Located in Pasadena, California, is the San Gabriel Valley's largest private agency serving the poor and homeless. http://www.unionstationfoundation.org/ Los Angeles Missions The Los Angeles Mission is a nonprofit organization serving the homeless living on the streets of downtown's Skid Row. Faithfully, for 56 years, we have saved many lives and have had a profound impact on thousands of others by providing compassionate, humanitarian services to those in desperate need. http://www.losangelesmission.org/ American Red Cross Union Rescue Mission is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the poor and homeless. Established in 1891, URM is one of the largest rescue missions of its kind in the United States and the oldest in Los Angeles. http://www.redcross.org/ Sat, 19 May 2007 01:08:55 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=51&article_id=123 Are You Looking For Life? "...I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10) Where is this Life found? In Jesus Christ. He said "I am the way the truth and the life..." (John 14:6). "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17). "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life." John 6:47 We have a place for you. In our busy lives, we are all looking to experience real relationship and a place to belong. Life Church is the right place for you, your children, and your entire family. Get connected. Jesus came to give you life. His death on the cross and His resurrection provided hope of eternal life. He has gone to prepare a place for you, so where ever He is, you will be also. Get connected with Him through Water Baptism, the Holy Spirit, Bible Study, Worship, Fellowship with other Believers, helping the needy, and so much more. We Have A Mission. Life church embraces the new birth message preached on the day of Pentecost, which we arrange around a convenient acronym, L.I.F.E., Leading them to new birth experience; Integrating them into the family of God; Forming them into mature Christian; Equipping them for their unique ministry. Ready to take the next step? Join our Bible Study every Wednesday at 7:30pm, and you will learn more about who we are, and what we believe. Take a step to become a Christian, enjoy the benefit of the new birth experience in Christ Jesus. Won't you make this church your place of worship unto the Lord? The presence of the Lord is here, to heal, to change lives, to give hope, and to save. Whatever you need from the Lord, you will find it here. We look forward to seeing you here! COME! Sat, 19 May 2007 00:58:18 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=58 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=58&article_id=141 New to the Pasadena Area? Be our guest! Click here for directions. Check out what our Worship is all about. Do you have a Prayer Request/Praise Report? How may we Help You? Click here. Check out the Calendar of Events. Send an e-Card Check out the Photo Gallery. Tue, 1 May 2007 14:08:19 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=52&article_id=124 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 Step 1. Have faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior and Repent. Believe Jesus Christ is Lord and died for you. Be sorry for your sins and recognize your need for the Savior as in Acts 3:19. Determined to turn from sin and give your life completely to Him. Step 2. Be baptized by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ. Be buried with Him by total immersion in water. Have the saving name of Jesus Christ pronounced over you as in Acts 22:16. Obtain remission of sins in baptism through obedience and faith in His name. Step 3. Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Believe God has promised it and that you can receive it as in Acts 2:4. You receive the gift of God's Spirit to live in you, enabling you to resist temptation and sin, to understand God's power. (Acts 2:4) You continue to live every day in a way that is holy, seeking the leading of God in your words and actions. You enjoy His presence, His joy, His blessings as you reach out to meet the needs of others, and by your example, help them to know God. Click here to learn more. Mon, 24 Jul 2006 17:27:49 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=46 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=46&article_id=98 The subject of water baptism has long been called a great issue and no doubt has been made such by many church leaders of the past and present. In our study of it, let us first consider its importance, or the necessity of being baptized. The Importance of Water Baptism Christian water baptism is an ordinance instituted by Jesus Christ. If it is not important in the plan of God, why did Jesus command it in Matthew 28:19? And why did Peter follow up by saying, "Be baptized every one of you," and by commanding the Gentiles to be baptized (Acts 2:38; 10:48)? We must remember two points about the importance of water baptism. First, whatever Christ definitely established and ordained cannot be unimportant, whether we understand its significance or not. Second, Christ and the apostles showed the importance of this ordinance by observing it. Jesus walked many miles to be baptized, though He was without sin, saying, "For thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness" (See Matthew 3:13-16.) It is true that water itself does not contain any saving virtue, but God has chosen to include it in His plan of salvation. Peter explained, "Baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (I Peter 3:21). According to Luke 7:30, "the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized." The Mode of Baptism According to the Scriptures, the proper mode of baptism is immersion. "And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water" (Matthew 3:16). "And they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him" (Acts 8:38). "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death" (Romans 6:4). A corpse is not buried by placing it on top of the ground and sprinkling a little soil on it, but by covering it completely. According to the World Book Encyclopedia, "At first all baptism was by complete immersion" (vol. 1, p.651). And the Catholic Encyclopedia states, "In the early centuries, all were baptized by immersion in streams, pools, and baptisteries" (vol. 2, p.263). Immersion was not convenient after the Catholic church instituted infant baptism; thus the mode was changed to sprinkling. (See Encyclopedia Britannica, 11th ed., vol. 3, pp.365-66.) Repentance identifies us with the death of Christ, and baptism identifies us with His burial. Coming forth from the watery grave of baptism and receiving new life in the Holy Spirit identifies us with His resurrection. The Formula for Baptism Jesus commanded His disciples to "teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19). He did not command them to use these words as a formula, but He commanded them to baptize in "the name." The word name is used here in the singular, and it is the focal point of the baptismal command. The titles Father, Son, and Holy Ghost describe God's relationships to humanity and are not the supreme, saving name described here, which is Jesus. "Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). Jesus is the name in which the roles of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are revealed. The angel of the Lord instructed Joseph, "She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Jesus said, "I am come in my Father's name," and, "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost,...the Father will send in my name" (John 5:43; 14:26). Thus by baptizing in the name of Jesus, we honor the Godhead. "For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9). Luke 24:45-47 records that just before His ascension, Jesus opened the disciples' understanding. It was necessary that their understanding be opened, and many today need this same operation in order to understand the Scriptures. Then Jesus said to them, "Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day." The disciples had their understanding opened so that they could grasp the vast importance of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Verse 47 describes the commission that Jesus then gave: "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations [Jews and Gentiles], beginning at Jerusalem." Peter was one of that number to whom Jesus had spoken and whose understanding had been opened. After having listened to these instructions, a few days later he was inspired by the Holy Ghost to preach on the Day of Pentecost. The hearts of the hearers were pierced and, feeling condemned, they cried out to Peter and the other apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" (Acts 2:37). Peter did not hesitate but boldly answered, "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 2:38). "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized, and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:41). Some say that Peter told them to be baptized in Jesus' name because they were Jews and this baptism was to make them acknowledge Jesus Christ. But let us go with Peter to the house of Cornelius several years later. Cornelius and his household were Gentiles, yet there again Peter "commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord" (Acts 10:48). (Most translations actually say, "In the name of Jesus Christ.") If Peter was wrong on the Day of Pentecost, he surely had ample time to be corrected before he went to the house of Cornelius. Was Peter wrong on the Day of Pentecost? When the hearers were prickled in their hearts, they spoke to Peter and to the rest of the apostles (Acts 2:37). This included Matthew, who wrote Matthew 28:19. Moreover, when Peter preached, he stood up with the eleven Acts 2:14). Matthew was there, yet we find no words of correction from him. He surely would have spoken up if Peter had disobeyed the Lord. But all the apostles understood and carried out the Lord's commission. As Jesus said in prayer, "I have manifested thy name unto the men [the apostles] which thou gavest me out of the world...and they have kept thy word" (John 17:6). The Samaritans, who were not Jews, were also baptized in the name of Jesus. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them...."But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.... They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 8:5, 12, 16). Let us see how Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, baptized. He went to Ephesus many years after the Day of Pentecost and found some disciples of John the Baptist there. "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" (Acts 19:2-5). Although these disciples had already been baptized, the name of Jesus was so important as to cause them to be rebaptized in His name. We do not believe that Paul changed the formula or mode of baptism when he baptized Lydia and her household (Acts 16:14-15) or the Philippian jailer. The latter came trembling and fell down before Paul and Silas, saying, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And he took them the same hour of the night [shortly after midnight], and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway" (Acts 16:30-33). How can we doubt that Paul baptized these people using the same mode and formula that he used elsewhere, that is, immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ? Paul was not with the apostles when Jesus gave his finial instructions to them in Matthew 28:19 and Luke 24:47, yet Paul baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. How did he know what to do? He said that his gospel was not a tradition of men but a revelation from God. "I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ" (Galatians 1:11-12). Paul was chosen to bear Jesus' name to the Gentiles, and he wrote many divinely inspired epistles to the church. To this apostle, God revealed the mystery of the church, "which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit" (Ephesians 3:5). Paul claimed to have divine authority: "If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord" (I Corinthians 14:37). And Paul wrote, Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him" (Colossians 3:17). Water baptism is done in both word and deed. We cannot afford to overlook this command to the church. The church is "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" (Ephesians 2:20). The apostles not only preached baptism in Jesus' name, but they practiced it. Nowhere can we find that they baptized using the words "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." Instead, we find them baptizing in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. In baptizing in Jesus' name, they fulfilled the command of the Lord in Matthew 28:19. Paul said, "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed" (Galatians 1:8). Let this be a solemn warning to us. Some say that they will accept the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:19 but not those of Peter in Acts 2:38. But Peter spoke on the Day of Pentecost under the anointing of the Holy Ghost. Peter was one of the apostles, and to him had been given the keys of the kingdom, so we have no right to discredit his words. In Mark 7:8 Jesus said, "Laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men." History tells us that it was not until many years after the apostles that the mode and formula of baptism in the name of Jesus Christ were changed. (See Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible, vol. 1, p.241.) Which means more to you, the command of the Lord or the tradition of men? Taken from the Word Aflame Tract "Why We Baptize in Jesus' Name" #6109 Sat, 27 May 2006 00:09:31 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=47&article_id=99 The gift of the Holy Spirit has become the topic of much discussion in our day. Men and women of all persuasions and from all walks of life have become interested enough to search for greater understanding of this phenomenal spiritual experience. Capturing headlines, dominating the content of many religious periodicals, and generally creating excitement, this canon of apostolic faith deserves a sincere appraisal. The Facts The Holy Spirit is God. "God is a Spirit" (John 4:24). "There is . . . one Spirit" (Ephesians 4:4). To become a subject in the kingdom of God, Jesus said a person must be "born again," or "born of water and of the Spirit" (John 3:3-5). The birth of the Spirit and the baptism of the Spirit are synonymous terms. The Apostle Peter understood this truth as he spoke. to the multitude in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost: "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 2:38). This experience was received by the Jews on Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4), the Samaritans (Acts 8:15-17), and the Gentiles (Acts 10:44-48), plainly indicating that it was meant for all people, regardless of race, creed, color, or station in life. The new birth, consisting of water and Spirit, was never set forth as being optional or unessential. "Ye must be born again" are the words of Jesus in John 3:7. Until a person is born of the Spirit, he cannot be called a "son" of God. The Privilege But why concentrate only on the absoluteness of the command? It is a blessed privilege to experience a release of spirit, finding freedom of soul and expression in the baptism of the Holy Spirit. There is no other experience similar to it. "Incomparable" is the only adequate description of this filling. The transition is to an entirely new realm and way of life. A complete transformation takes place. The soul has an empty place "in the shape of God" that nothing else will fit or satisfy. The baptism of the Spirit completely satisfies every longing of the soul. In this experience is fulfillment. The Evidence There are two major evidences of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The initial, outward evidence is speaking with tongues, which means speaking miraculously in languages the speaker does not know. Speaking with other tongues has been connected with Spirit baptism since the beginning of the church age. On the birthday of the New Testament church, the Day of Pentecost after Christ's ascension, approximately 120 disciples of Christ were inundated by the Spirit of God and "began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:1-4). The household of an Italian centurion received the same spiritual experience, which the Jewish Christian onlookers readily identified, "for they heard them speak with tongues" (Acts 10:44-48). In Acts 19:1-6, a group of John the Baptist's disciples heard about the Holy Ghost from the Apostle Paul; they too were filled with the Spirit, "and they spake with tongues." We cannot adequately express with our own words the ecstasy experienced in the baptism of the Spirit. Only through unaccustomed words of heavenly coherence can we utter what our souls would express. There are perhaps several other reasons why God chose speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of this spiritual baptism. It is an objective, external evidence that recipients and onlookers can both identify with certainty (Acts 10:46). It is a uniform evidence-all the disciples on Pentecost, all the household of Cornelius, and all the believers in Ephesus spoke in tongues. "So is everyone that is born of the Spirit" are the words of Jesus in His description of this spiritual new birth (John 3:8). Speaking in tongues also indicates the complete control of the Spirit over our human wills. The tongue is the most unruly member of the body (James 3:8), and its being tamed by God is evidence of His complete control. Further evidence of the Spirit's abiding presence in our lives is the fruit of the Spirit, which Paul mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." The Promise Was the baptism of the Holy Spirit for the apostles or early disciples only? Is it today available to only a select few who are "superspiritual"? The obvious answer to these questions is no. The Apostle Peter made it very plain in his message on the Day of Pentecost that the gift of the Holy Ghost is for everyone: "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 2:39). (See Luke 11:13.) Our faith, obedience, and submission to the Lord Jesus and His gospel qualify us for this most joyous of all experiences. (See Acts 5:32; 11:15-17.) As Isaiah 12:3 states, "With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation." Seek Him today, for "he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6). "Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters" (Isaiah 55:1). This means you! JRE Taken from the Word Aflame Press tract "The Gift of the Holy Ghost" - #156722072X Sat, 27 May 2006 00:02:54 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=45 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=45&article_id=97 The three words of this title come from Luke 13:5, which reads, "Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish". Plainly, then, the tragic alternative to repentance is eternal perdition. In view of this fact, it is extremely important that everyone knows what repentance is and how it is accomplished. Repentance Is More Than Reformation To reform is to "improve one's character or conduct; to become better; to behave better; to give up misconduct; to make better by removing faults or defects." One who genuinely reforms will, from that moment on, live a better life. And certainly this is to be desired. However, reformation falls short in at least one vital particular - it does nothing about the past. It leaves upon the pages of God's record all the sins that a person has committed. Consequently, it leaves the sinner still under the sentence of death. Suppose that a criminal who has been guilty of many and various offenses against the law decides to reform. From that moment on, he determines to be a law-abiding citizen. This would be commendable, but it would not absolve him from the guilt of his past crimes. If he is apprehended, or if he surrenders himself, he will still be called upon to pay for his past crimes, unless he is given a pardon. The same is true of the sinner in relation to this past sins. What Is Repentance? Repentance is, first of all, a turning away from all sin. And, so far as this first aspect is concerned, it closely resembles reformation. But repentance further involves turning to God, in believing prayer, for forgiveness and cleasning from all sin. Such prayer is not necessarily vocal, but it usually is. The repentant person confesses to God that he is a sinner and asks for forgiveness. If he obeys the gospel, he can rest assured that God will forgive, for His Word promises, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins" (1 John 1:9). The Basis of Repentance How is genuine repentance brought about? Paul explained, "For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation" (2 Corinthians 7:10). Before a person can repent, he must feel sorrow for his sins. And this must be godly sorrow. For someone to be sorry merely because they have brought trouble upon him, is not enough. He must be sorry because he has broken the commandments of God, spurned His gospel, and thereby grieved Him days without number. Such godly sorrow is the only motivating force for real repentance. Repentance and the Holy Ghost Baptism A person cannot receive the Holy Ghost before repentance. Jesus said that the "world" could not receive this experience (John 14:17). He meant that those who were unwilling to give up the carnal things of the world, through repentance, could not receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Peter made this plain in Acts 2:38 - "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". It was no accident that he mentioned repentance first. In God's divine order, repentance must precede water baptism and receiving the Holy Ghost. The requirements for receiving the Holy Spirit are repentance and faith. In many cases, those who tarry for this spiritual experience without receiving it simply have not repented. If and when this is true, it is useless for such a one to praise God with the expectation of receiving the Holy Ghost. He should first repent and claim God's promise of forgiveness. As his burdens lift because of confession of sin and as he feels God's love and mercy, he will naturally begin to worship God. And God will pour out His Spirit upon this repentant, believing, worshiping soul! Time for Repentance is Limited The time to repent is strictly limited by the extent of earthly life. There can be no repentance after death. Since in the normal course of events no one knows how long he will live, it is perilous indeed to procrastinate. The Bible declares, "It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews 9:27). The time of repentance is further limited by the duration of a person's capability of being impressed by conviction. A continued refusal to repent when called by God's Spirit brings hardness of heart. Paul spoke of people who were "past feeling" (Ephesians 4:19). Such people no longer feel God's Spirit leading them to serve them. They have lost all desire for repentance. The apostle also asked this question: "Despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?" (Romans 2:4). Think of the goodness of God to you, and surely your heart will be inclined toward repentance. The Lord is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9). Taken from the Word Aflame Press tract "Except Ye Repent" - #156722069X. Wed, 24 May 2006 17:39:55 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=3&article_id=3 "But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name." John 20:31 The Bible The Bible is the infallible Word of God and the authority for salvation and Christian living (II Timothy 3:15-17). One God There is one God, who has revealed Himself as our Father, in His Son Jesus Christ, and as the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ is God manifested in flesh. He is both God and man (Deuteronomy 6:4; Ephesians 4:4-6; Colossians 2:9; I Timothy 3:16). Sin and Salvation Everyone has sinned and needs salvation. Salvation comes by grace through faith based on the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ (Romans 3:23-25; 6:23; Ephesians 2:8-9). The Gospel The saving gospel is the good news that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again. We obey the gospel by repentance (death to sin), water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ (burial), and receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit (resurrection) (I Corinthians 15:1-4; Acts 2:4, 37-39; Romans 6:3-4). Christian Living As Christians we are to love God and others. We should live a holy life inwardly and outwardly, and worship God joyfully. The supernatural gifts of the Spirit, including healing, are for the church today (Mark 12:28-31; II Corinthians 7:1; Hebrews 12:14; I Corinthians 12:8-10). The Second Coming of Christ Jesus Christ is coming again to catch away His church. In the end will be the final resurrection and the final judgment. The righteous will inherit eternal life, and the unrighteous eternal death (I Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 20:11 15). Read More >>> Mon, 1 May 2006 22:12:02 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=28&article_id=40 The day of Pentecost was observed in Jerusalem fifty days after the celebration of the Passover, which commemorated Israel's deliverance out of Egypt. It is significant that this day was chosen by the Lord to begin the fulfillment of Joel 2:28: "I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh...." The Spirit came upon the waiting, praying disciples in an overwhelming manner. Their complete commitment to Christ and His commission evoked a mighty baptism of God's power. This was evidenced initially by their speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4). The Spirit was resident in their lives from that moment. The Spirit-filled early church witnessed many outstanding miraculous happenings (Acts 3:1-7; 4:31). They were able to lead victorious lives as a result of their Pentecostal experience. Two baptisms were disclosed on the day of Pentecost. There was a baptism in the Holy Spirit, and in the Apostle Peter's message that followed, water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ was commanded (Acts 2:38). This outward, physical baptism mysteriously merges with that of the Spirit, and is the "one baptism" of Ephesians 4:5. This is what Jesus referred to as being "born again" in John 3:3-7. And how wonderful to be born into the family of God-changed, transformed, and made a "new creature in Christ Jesus". No, Pentecost is not a denomination. It is a new birth experience. It is primitive Christianity made relevant to today's world. The people referred to as Pentecostal simply believe, teach, and receive all that transpired on that birthday of the church...Pentecost, 33 A.D. There is a church near you that embraces these basic Christian truths and experiences. You owe it to yourself to attend-and see what Pentecost can really mean to you! Fri, 24 Mar 2006 17:29:32 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=14&article_id=4 Richard Brown Pastor Brown was born in Hamilton, Ontario (Canada) on July 6, 1972 to Rev. Ronald and Mrs. Patricia Brown. When he was 17 years old, God began to use Richard in preaching and teaching. Pastor Brown earned a Bachelor of Arts from Union University in Jackson, TN. with a major in English and minor in Education. During his single years, Richard had the opportunity to minister frequently overseas. In the fall of 1997, while serving as a part-time youth minister, Pastor Brown began teaching public school in Brownsville, TN as an 8th grade English teacher. Pastor Brown loves to teach the Word of God and has a passion to reach all cultures in the local community as well as throughout the world. His heartbeat for LifeChurch is to create a culture of discipleship development and leadership training. Sat, 18 Mar 2006 01:38:25 MST http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15 http://www.lifechurchpasadena.com/app/w_page.php?type=section&id=15&article_id=5 Sun, 29 Jan 2006 17:00:57 MST