Baptism

The baptism, administered by the pastor, is essential for spiritual life and marks the believer's initiation into the Christian faith. This baptism is performed in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, reflecting the believer's acceptance into the divine family where God is our Father, and we are His children. This profound relationship is established through the act of baptism. Although the Bible mentions baptism, it does not prescribe a specific method. The pastor baptizes those who repent and believe in Christ using water, with no fixed quantity, in the name of the Trinity. Consequently, baptism by either immersion or sprinkling is considered valid. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Thus, both methods of baptism are acceptable. If a person has been baptized once—regardless of the timing, the person who administered it, or the denomination—such a baptism is considered valid. A person baptized in the name of the Trinity should not be baptized again. As the Apostle Paul states in Ephesians 4:5, "One Lord, one faith, one baptism." Therefore, baptism is a singular and unrepeatable act.

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is often considered a separate and distinct experience from water baptism. While water baptism symbolizes repentance and a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit involves an infilling of the Holy Spirit that empowers the believer for ministry, service, and a deeper relationship with God. This experience is often associated with spiritual gifts such as speaking in tongues, prophecy, and other manifestations of the Spirit’s power. The purpose of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is to enable believers to live a victorious Christian life, to witness boldly, and to demonstrate the power of God. It was first experienced by the disciples on the Day of Pentecost, as described in Acts 2, and is considered a fulfilment of Jesus' promise to send the "Comforter" or "Helper." Acts 2:38 - "Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'" Luke 24:49 - "I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high." Acts 2:3-4 - “And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Luke 3:16 - “John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire.”

Washing of the Feet

Before the Last Supper, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, as recorded in John 13:1-5, demonstrating humility and servant leadership. In John 13:15, Jesus instructs, "For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you." This act serves as both an example and a command for His followers. Therefore, pastors, following Christ's example, should wash the feet of new believers before administering communion to them for the first time. This ritual symbolizes humility, purification, and the believer's readiness to partake in the Lord's Supper.

A Living Hope for Today

"Maranatha" continues to be a powerful reminder for all believers to live with expectancy and readiness, knowing that Jesus could return at any moment. It challenges us to stay focused on the eternal, not to be consumed by the temporary struggles of life. Whatever trials or hardships we face, Maranatha is a call to lift our eyes to the horizon of hope. Our Lord is coming soon. So today, in the face of doubt, fear, and uncertainty, we proclaim Maranatha! —Jesus is coming. Let this word of hope and assurance anchor our hearts and fuel our faith until that glorious day when He appears.

The Gift of Tongues

The Gift of Tongues is one of the spiritual gifts mentioned in the New Testament, specifically in 1 Corinthians 12-14. It refers to the supernatural ability to speak in a language unknown to the speaker, which can either be an earthly language or a heavenly one. This gift is given for various purposes, such as personal edification, prayer, intercession, or to deliver a prophetic message to the church when accompanied by interpretation. Speaking in tongues serves as a sign to unbelievers (1 Corinthians 14:22) and can also build up the believer’s spirit when used privately in prayer (1 Corinthians 14:4). However, Paul emphasizes the importance of order and understanding in public worship, suggesting that tongues should be interpreted so that the church may be edified. 1 Corinthians 14:2 - "For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to people but to God. Indeed, no one understands them; they utter mysteries by the Spirit." 1 Corinthians 14:27-28 - "If anyone speaks in a tongue, two—or at the most three—should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and to God."

The Gift of Visions

The Gift of Visions is the ability to see divine revelations, often given by God to communicate His will, provide guidance, or reveal future events. Visions are seen as one way God speaks to His people, along with other methods like prophecy, dreams, and Scripture. Throughout the Bible, God communicated with prophets and others through visions, such as Daniel, Ezekiel, and the Apostle John in the Book of Revelation. Visions can be literal or symbolic and are meant to encourage, warn, guide, or prepare individuals or the church for specific purposes. They are a demonstration of God's desire to have an intimate relationship with His people, revealing His plans and purposes for them. Acts 10:9-16 - Peter's vision of the sheet with unclean animals, which led to the inclusion of Gentiles in the early church. 2 Corinthians 12:1 - Paul speaks of "visions and revelations from the Lord." Revelation 1:10-11 - John’s vision on the Isle of Patmos where he receives the revelation of Jesus Christ.

The Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is a sacred observance where believers receive the body and blood of Christ inwardly, remembering His sacrifice. It is desirable to partake in the Lord’s Supper as frequently as possible, as it serves as a means of spiritual nourishment and communion with Christ. Additionally, some believers may experience physical healing during the observance of the Lord's Supper, as suggested in 1 Corinthians 11:23-34. Regular participation in this sacrament strengthens faith, unity, and devotion among believers.

The Word of God

The Holy Bible, divinely inspired, is the foundation of Christianity and reveals the mind and will of God. While Scripture is the primary means of divine revelation, God also reveals His truths through creation, conscience, direct divine communication, good deeds, and trials. When faced with temptation or spiritual conflict, believers are to rely on the Word of God. Jesus Himself rebuked Satan by quoting Scripture during His temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4). Thus, Scripture remains the ultimate authority and defence in spiritual matters.

Divine Healing

Divine healing is the restoration of health through prayers of faith, independent of medical intervention. While God has endowed herbs and plants with healing properties, making the use of medicine permissible, believers are encouraged to seek healing primarily through the prayer of faith. This approach emphasizes reliance on God's power and mercy. Nonetheless, using medicine is not considered wrong, as all healing ultimately comes from God.

Leading a Life Based on Faith

Living by faith means trusting that salvation and all sustenance for life, both physical and spiritual, are found solely in Jesus Christ. As Philippians 4:19 assures, "God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Faith involves a confident dependence on God to provide for all necessities. Jesus also affirmed in Matthew 10:10, "The worker is worthy of his food," encouraging believers to trust in God's provision for their daily needs.

Casting Out evils

Jesus Christ commanded His disciples in Matthew 10:8 to "cast out devils," granting them authority over unclean spirits. This spiritual authority continues to be relevant today, as the Lord grants certain believers the gift to rebuke and expel demonic forces. Though some may doubt the existence of demons, such skepticism only serves the purposes of the adversary. Believers are called to exercise their God-given authority in faith and obedience to Christ’s command.

Waiting Upon the Lord

Every believer is encouraged to spend time daily in the practice of waiting upon the Lord, ideally for an hour. This discipline involves quiet reflection and attentive listening after prayer, seeking a response from God. Distinguishing between prayer (speaking to God) and waiting (listening for His response) is essential. This practice cultivates patience, trust, and a deeper connection with God and should be a daily habit for all believers.

God’s Presence – Practicing “DAIVA SANNIDHI”

To experience God's presence, believers should choose a suitable time and place, maintain purity of heart, body, and attire, and come together in worship. This includes singing songs, reading Scripture, praying in an orderly manner, and seeking God's guidance. When these steps are followed, God promises to reveal Himself and answer our questions. No material wealth, fame, or education can compare to the privilege of waiting upon the Lord. Through consistent meditation and devotion, all aspects of a believer's life will flourish.