C5-3 Baptism

THE'BIBLICAL IMPORTANCE OF WATER BAPTISM Section 3 Most believers are already convinced of the absolute necessity of being baptized in the Holy Spirit, that is being born again or born from above (JN 3:5). However, the role of water baptism in Biblical (apostolic) Salvation, has been under attach for a very long time. Therefore this Section has been written to address the importance the Apostles placed on water baptism. The Apostle Paul placed great importance on grace, but not as a license to sin! This is why he wrote: "..? Will we continue in sin that grace may abound? Far be it: for if we are persons that have died to sin, how can we again live in it." Rom 6:2 Roth Then, Paul makes a direct connection to our water baptism, to demonstrate why we should have already died to the desire and control of sin over our lives. "For we are buried with him in immersion (baptism) to death; that as Yeshua the Messiah arose from the dead into the glory of his father, so also we, to walk in a new life." Rom 6:4 A.P. by Roth Paul is speaking of the power in the name and the blood to free the sinner who confesses HIM and is baptized, from the control of the sinful desire over the heart and soul. The old sinful nature is buried in baptism, so that the new believer is able to come up out of the water a new creature. For he that is dead to the desire of the flesh is freed from sin (Rom 6:7). WITH SIN SO RAMPANT IN THE CHURCH TODAY, IT WOULD SEEM LIKE THIS WOULD BE CONSIDERED, BY ANY TRUE MAN OF GOD, TO BE AVERY IMPORTANT AND POWERFUL MESSAGE. But what had foundational importance to the Apostle Paul, was for each believer to come to know the resurrecting power of Yeshua in their lives, and for them to maintain that power as a result of their faith and knowledge of HIM. This is why Paul wrote: "Strengthening your roots and building up yourselves in him and establishing yourselves in the faith which you have learned in which may you abound in thanksgiving." Colosians 2:7 Roth For there are those who will continually attack our faith from its very root, Which is why Paul continues: "Beware, or else any man make you naked (spoil you/strip, you) by philosophy and by vain deception, according to the doctrine of men according to the rudiments of the world, and not according to the Messiah." Col 2:8 Roth There are those who want to spoil you, and to literally strip you naked of your covering in MAR-YAH YESHUA. One way in which they do this is by belittling the importance the Apostles placed on water baptism, as Paul said "For those who have been immersed (baptized) in Messiah have been CLOTHED WITH MESSIAH." Galations 3:27 A.P. by Roth Therefore, there are those who desire to strip the believer from their clothing/ covering they recieve by being baptized into the name of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA]. For if and when believers become convinced, that water baptism had no direct relationship, to the washing away of their sins and the covering of the blood and the name over their souls; then their faith in such a covering, is no longer based upon the solid Rock of scripture, but rather on the shaky foundation of philosophy and vain deception, as put forth by the commandment of mere men. Which is exactly what Paul is warning the believer against. Then Paul goes on to explain about the nature of the MESSIAH, and why all should trust in HIM. But this message is better understood by contrast. For this reason, we turn to the Apostle John: "Yeshua answered and said to them, 'Tear down this temple and after three days I will raise IT!" John 2:19 by Roth "But HE was speaking concerning the Temple of his BODY" John 2:21 By Roth The Aramaic word used in this context for body is (pagar) [NOTE # 7 ]. Which means to be exhausted and void of strength, from the idea of coldness, that is to lack the vitality of warmth, as of a cold body, of which the vitality of life has departed. Which is Why this word is used many times of a dead body, that is a carcass. thus, for this word to be used for "body" in this context, reveals that without the Divine presence within the body (Temple), the body would be nothing but a dead corpse. However, Paul reveals another aspect of the body of the MESSIAH. "In whom dwells all the fullness of God (i.e. the Godhead) bodily." Colosians 2:9 A.P..by Roth The Aramaic word used in this context for (bodily) is (gasham) [NOTE # 8]. Which comes from the Hebrew root of a violent and heavy rain. For, from this body, the word of YAH pours forth to all those Who hear or read of the word, planting YAH the word as a seed in the heart of the new believer. And from this same body, also proceeds the LIVING WATERS, which fall down upon believers as if rain. The Apostles recieved the former rain upon the earth, and we end time believers will experience the latter rain of the Spirit upon the earth (Hosea 6:3). But always keep in mind that this latter rain outpouring of the Holy Spirit, is being poured forth from the body of the Messiah. And we may drink of the LIVING WATERS Which come forth from the body of MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH, just as Israel drank a Spiritual drink from the anointed Rock which followed them, which was the MESSIAH. "And they all drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the Spiritual Rock that attended (followed) them, and that Rock was the Messiah." 1 Corinthians 10:4 A.P. by Roth Therefore, two important lessons are being taught here about the body of Messiah. The body of Messiah is just the Temple of YAH YAHWEH, and when YAH YAHWEH departed from the body, then the body became a dead corpse. However, when YAH recieved back and revived His dead body, HIS body became the place from which the fullness of God flows out unto HIS people. As YAH the Son is planted as a seed within the heart; and as Yahweh the Father waters that seed with the LIVING WATERS. Therefore the Father and Son both pour forth from the body of Messiah unto all who exercise their faith completely in HIS NAME. This is Why Paul continues with these words. "And in HIM you are also complete because HE IS the head of all principalities and authorities." Coloaians 2:10 A.P. by Roth Once the seed of the word, even YAH the Son, becomes watered with the LIVING WATERS, even YAHWEH THE FATHER, and the Father and Son become united in the soul of the believer; then at that point, the believer is complete in HIM, and can be confident and live without fear, knowing that MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH is the head of all principalities and authorities, both spiritual and Physical. Even if earthly rulers do not yet acknowledge His authority, MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH still uses them to accomplish His goals. Paul has now laid out the foundation of all Christian faith, and begins to build upon that foundation by contrasting the sign of the covenant in the flesh, which is circumcision, with the sign of the covenant in the Spirit, Which is water baptism. "And in HIM you have been circumcised with a circumcision without hands,.." Colosians 2:11A A.P. by Roth Just as the flesh of the foreskin is cut off and cast away, likewise the sinful nature must be cut out and cast away " ...by casting off the flesh of sins by a circumcision of the Messiah." Colosians 2:11 B A.P. by Roth This spiritual circumcision is the true circumcision of the heart of flesh (Deut 10: 16; 30:6; Jere 4:4; Eze 11:19). But What is this circumcision of the Messiah under the New Covenant? "And you have been BURIED with HIM by IMMERSION (baptism); and by it you have risen with HIM While you believed in the power of God who raised HIM from the dead." Colosians 2:12 A.P. by Roth (emphasis mine) In order to experience the power of God during baptism, the new believer must have faith that the baptismal waters are working in conjunction with the blood and the Spirit to wash away their sins; and that the NAME is being placed upon them as a covering and protection from future sins Not as a license to continue in sins, but rather, to protect the new believer from the power that sins once held over their lives. While the minister places the name of the Son upon the believer during baptism, the believer calls upon the name of MAR-YAH YESHUA both before and after their baptism. Even Paul was admonished as a new believer, to wash away his sins in baptism, as he called upon the name. "And now, why do you delay? Arize, be immersed (baptized), and be cleansed from your sins, while you invoke [i.e. CALL UPON] HIS NAME." Acts 22:16 A.P. by Roth This power of God which is experienced by the believer, to wash away their sins, is totally denied and rejected by many denominations today; just as it was during Paul's day, which is why he wrote, that in the latter days, men would deny the grace of God...: "Having a form of respect (i.e. fear) for God but wide (i.e. far) from the POWER OF GOD, them Who are such, repel from you." 2 tim 3:5 A.P. by Roth Today, people still deny the Power of God, Which works through the water and the blood, through the name and the Spirit, to wash away sins. Claiming to have obtained this same power, short of obedience to the command to be baptized and wash away their sins. Paul finishes up his thoughts concerning baptism, with these words: "And you who were dead in your sins and by the uncircumcision of your flesh He has resurrected with HIM, and HE HAS FORGIVEN US ALL OUR SINS." Col 2:13 The final outcome of casting off our sins in repentance, confession and baptism, is to take on the name of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA]; and those Who have been clothed in this name [by faith and action], by being baptized in this name, have been forgiven of their sins. If a believer will exercise their faith, as they call on the name of MAR-YAH, and believe that as the minister dunks them under the water While calling over them the name of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA]; believing that the blood of Yeshua is washing away every sin, they will be washed, cleansed, and forgiven of all sins. It is faith in the instructions, faith in the Biblical command, by which a believer exercises their faith in the blood of MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH. It is this type of Biblical faith, Which causes the power of God to be experienced during baptism. The baptismal experience was so powerful in the first century, that the enemy began at once to attack this doctrine. Which is [probably] why all ancient Greek manuscripts of Hebrews became altered and thus distorted, very early on. Paul is again speaking of foundational doctrines in Hebrews 6:1-2. One of these doctrines is the doctrine of baptisms, that is the baptism of the water and the baptism of the Spirit (JN 3:5). The two aspects of baptism, actually become one complete baptismal experience (Eph 4:5). Then instead of relating the foundational experience, concerning the power of God one should experience during baptism, the Greek texts, waters down the message and actually brings in another doctrine altogether, Which is the doctrine of "enlightenment". Therefore, let us compare the Greek "Enlightenment", to the Aramaic Peshitta "Power of God experienced during immersion (baptism)". "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened,.." Hebrews 6:4 KJV from Greek text "But they Who have once descended to immersion (baptism) and have tasted the gift from heaven and have recieved the Holy Spirit. And have tasted the good word of God and the power of the world to come," Hebrews 6:4-5 Aramaic Peshitta by Roth The Gnostics believed that the enlightenment of knowledge was the path to God. While the Apostles preached the foolishness of baptism, through which a believer would experience the power of God. For once they obeyed this command by faith, they soon found, that 'baptism' was not foolish after all, but rather, the chosen path of God, to demonstrate His power in the lives of HIS people. For those Who have experienced the power of God during baptism, have obtained an intimate knowledge and experience of the power of God. Therefore knowledge is essential, but a worldly knowledge, which excludes the experience of the power of God during baptism, is a doctrine of men, which denies the power of God which works in the souls of men. The reason that the true believer can look back and remember their baptism, is because of the supernatural power of God they experienced while being baptized. But even here, the Greek text only wants you to remember your 'enlightenment': "But call to rememberance the former days, in which ye were ILLUMINATED,.." Hebrews 10:32 KJV from Greek text "Therefore, recall the former days, those in which you recieved immersion (baptism)..." Hebrews 10:32 Aramaic Peshitta by Roth Every Aramaic Peshitta text reads "baptism' in both these verses. Most all Greek texts read 'enlightenment'. Early on in history the Gnostics must have distorted the Greek texts then in existence, to diminish the importance of baptism. The Gnostics believed that knowledge (gnosis) was essential to salvation, rather then one experiencing the power of God in baptism. [NOTE # 9 ]. Paul goes on in this same verse to explain that a struggle of faith has been waging, which may cause the believer to falter, if they allow their faith in the power of God they experienced during baptism to waver. "Therefore, recall the former days, those in Which you recieved immersion and endured a great conflict [cabar-examination of faith] of sufferings with reproach and affliction;" Hebrews 10:32 Aramaic Peshitta by Roth The word which is translated here as 'conflict' is from the root of (cabar/sabar #5452 and #7663 Gesenius) which means to look at expectantly and to dig into with hope and expectation of recieving the reward. Thus to explore and search out. In this light, it is used often to refer to the good news of the gospel message. But in this context, it is the believer Who is being examined, that is dug into, in the sense of leaving wounds, the believer is being examined to test their faith and faithfulness, which is Why Paul admonishes the believer to remember the power of God they experienced while being baptized, so that their faith will not fail, but rather, will keep them unto the coming of MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH. Today the battle over the importance of water baptism is still being waged. The attacks against the faith of the believer in the power of the operation of Cod are relentless. the day is coming, When this truth will cause division and separate the sincere believer, placing them in a position to recieve great persecution, maybe even death, because they continue to believe in the power of the name and the blood to wash away their sins in baptism, and because they keep this in memory, lest they forget and turn back to their sins It is impossible to base proper doctrinal understanding upon one's own personal experience. What is important was the experiences of the Apostles and those who heard them. In other words, just because you have not experienced the power of God during your baptism, does not mean the believers of the first century Church did not have a mighty move of the HOLY SPIRIT when they were baptized. Neither does a person's lack of experience of the power of God during baptism, negate the power experienced by many of this generation. All the verses about having one's sins washed away, and casting off the sins of the flesh and then putting on our Lord YAH YESHUA in baptism, indicate strongly, that first century believers experienced the power of God While being baptized, because they strongly believed in the power of the resurrection, which power they experienced While coming forth from the waters of baptism. Why does Paul incourage believers to recall their baptismal experience? Because if believers do not keep the time when they were first washed in the blood in their current spiritual memory, they may actually forget the power of the blood to wash away sins and the power of the Spirit to raise them to new life. We are all to observe Passover, as we remember the body of MAR-YAH and the blood of MAR-YAH, through the physical emblems of the bread and the wine (1 Cor 11:24-29). We do this to keep His body and blood in our spiritual memories. Yet Paul is teaching that it is imperative to also keep the power of our baptismal experience in our spiritual memories, so that we will not return back to our former sins, so that faith will stay alive in our souls (Heb 10:37-39). Believe it or not, the scripture even gives the believer certain songs, to help us to keep the body and blood of MAR-YAH in our spiritual memories. "YAH is my praise and my song, and is also become my salvation (YESHUA)." Psalms 118;14 [NOTE # 10] "YAH is my strength and my song, and is also become my Salvation (Yeshua)." Psalms 118:14 [NOTE #10 ] Thus dual meaning of "strength/praise" [0z-#5796 Gesenius], causes the learned believer to understand: "YAH is my praise and song, which gives me strength, and is also become my] Salvation (YESHUA)." Ps 118:14 When fully understood When the believer sings praise to YAH who has become YESHUA, their spiritual memory is stirred, and their faith is strengthened. And because we have learned that this context is speaking specificly about YAH clothing Himself in a mortal body to become YESHUA, then we should also see that His body was broken to make the blood and the Spirit available unto us. Because just as the bread was broken, likewise the body of YAH was broken so that we may be washed in the blood and the SPIRIT which flows forth from His body. (MT 26:26-27;MK 14:22-24; LK 22:19-20). In contrast to this the believer is broken, so that the Blood and the SPIRIT can wash over them and through them, making them completely clean and whole. Therefore the key verse and foundational thought of this entire book is :'"YAH is my praise and song, which strengthens me, and is become my YESHUA". This verse serves not only to point out that YAH IS BECOME YESHUA, and that our confession must be of Him and unto HIM; but it also serves as a continual witness and reminder of what YAH has done for us, as we experience His resurrecting power during our baptism. Paul wants the believer to use every tool available in their arsenal, to keep their faith in the resurrecting power of MAR-YAH YESHUA alive in their spiritual memories. This is why he concludes Hebrews Chapter ten, like this: "Because, yet a little, and it is a very little time when he that comes, will come, and will not delay. Now the just by MY faith will live: but if he draw back, MY soul will not have pleasure in him. But we are not of that drawing back, which leads to perdition, but of that faith which makes us possess our soul." Hebrews 10:37-39 Aramaic Peshitta by Roth [NOTE #11] Paul is actually quoting from Habakkuk 2:3-4. However the modern translator of the Hebrew text, does not see it, as Paul is quoting it. For in this context one finds an interesting blend of Hebrew, with some words translated according to their Aramaic meanings, rather then the Hebrew. The key missunderstanding, is with the word aphal" which in the Hebrew normally means (lifted up, swell up, usually as in pride or arrogance). However the Aramaic reveals that the idea of swelling, was similar to the idea of fatness, which would cause one to be fat and lazy, thus idle, and thus to cause one to cease doing righteousness. To neglect the right way, to be remiss on one's duties and to turn back from the path of life. For if one were to forget the power of God they experienced during their baptism, they may also grow remiss in doing the works of life, Which would lead them into perdition. Now the "MY' in this context refers to MAR-YAH YESHUA who is to soon come back. Therefore the just shall live by the faith of MAR-YAH YESHUA. However if the just shall turn away from doing righteousness, MAR-YAH YESHUA will find no pleasure in them. But those who preserve their spiritual memory of the power of God they experienced in baptism, retain their faith and preserve their souls. [See NOTE # 12 - works of righteousness] Now lets return back to the discussion Paul was having in Colosians Chapter two. Where Paul laid down the foundation of MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH and the fullness of the power of God which comes forth from HIS body. Then showed how we are to build upon this foundation by casting away our sins in baptism, just like a man would cast off his foreskin under the Old Covenant. For the man who casts off his sins in baptism is assured of forgiveness of those sins. Paul then continues to lay out four foundational doctrines, which should be understood and confessed by each believer before their baptism. However, the Greek obscures the issue so badly, that I just want to give the proper understanding of this context here, as from the:: ORIGINAL ARAMAIC. "And by HIS COMANDMENT$, He blotted out the judicial writing of our debts that were existing secretly against us (as if a secret indictment). And HE lifted it up from the midst and affixed it to HIS CROSS (stake)." "And by YIELDING UP HIS BODY, He broke Principalities and Authorities, and put them to shame, openly, WITH HIS DIVINE NATURE." Colosians 2:14-15 Aramaic Peshitta [NOTE # 13 ] The four things Paul is teaching that are foundational for the believer to understand are: 1. HIS COMMANDMENTS 2. HIS CROSS (STAKE) 3. YIELDING UP HIS BODY 4. HIS DIVINE NATURE Every believer should understand that because of the COMMANDMENTS OF MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH, which HE recieved from YAHWEH HIS FATHER, that the accusations of the enemy against them have been blotted out. For the enemy is like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour and is always accusing the believer before our heavenly Father (1 Peter 5:7; Rev 12:10). These accusations of the enemy have been blotted out by the good and righteous commandments of our heavenly Father. Every believer should understand that the cross represents death. The place where YAH offered up His own body to die for our sins. Every believer should know that YAH yielded up His own body willingly, and that no one took it from HIM, or forced HIM to offer IT up. Every believer should understand, that When YAH offered up His body to the cross, that HE was also displaying HIS DIVINE NATURE to all. (MT 27:54). And it is because that His people now have access unto the DIVINE NATURE within HIM, due to His broken body, that MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH broke the power of all principalities and authorities. Mar-Yah Yeshua broke the power of evil forces, by revealing and uncovering their true nature, for all, who's eyes have been opened to see. Most believers are aware of the last three of these foundational principles, in spite of the obscure way this is translated into the Greek manuscripts. However, they may have a hard time believing that it was actually the righteous and good commandments of YAHWEH, which blotted out the accusations of the enemy, Which have been brought before YAHWEH day and night. Therefore this error in the Church is a foundational error. [See more on this under NOTE #13 ] Paul made it clear in Colosians 2:8, that there were men Who desire through deception to strip the believer naked of a very precious covering from their MESSIAH. Then Paul informs the believer, in Colosians 2:11-13, that this covering is given unto the believer in baptism {compare pages _______}. And if this was not put plain enough, Paul informs the believer that "...those who have been baptized in MESSIAH have been CLOTHED WITH MESSIAH (Gal 3:27)." For the believer takes on the name of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA], as this name is called over them by the Minister in baptism. For when the believer experienced the power of God, as they were baptized into this HOLY NAME, they would thereafter, wear this name as a garment of Salvation (YESHUA). Isaiah the Prophet wrote about this garment of Salvation (YESHUA) that the wedding party would wear, including the bride and the groom. "I will greatly rejoice in YAHWEH, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath CLOTHED ME WITH THE GARMENTS OF SALVATION, he hath COVERED me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a a bride adorneth herself with her jewels." Isaiah 61:10 KJV The full name as revealed in the Aramaic Peshitta of the MESSIAH; is the wedding garment of the believer. It is a sad indictment, that some souls will be invited and even drawn by the Holy Spirit within them, unto the Marriage Supper of the Lamb [Rev 19:7-9], but will enter in without a wedding garment, they will not be wearing the GARMENT OF SALVATION, Which is the full name of "YESHUA", that is OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA]. And because they adamantly refused to take on His name in baptism, they will be cast into outer darkness. The wedding of the King's Son, is about the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, a wedding one does not want to attend without a garment of Salvation, that is without a wedding garment. "And When the King came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a WEDDING GARMENT. And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the King to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are Chosen." Matthew 22:11-14 The wedding garment cannot be the Holy Spirit, because only those who are filled with the Holy Spirit, will have their dead bodies revived, so that they can ascend unto the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. As it is written: "And if the SPIRIT of HIM who raised our Master Yeshua the Messiah from the dead dwells in you he who raised our Master Yeshua the Messiah from the dead will also REVIVE YOUR DEAD BODIES because of HIS SPIRIT that dwells in you." Romans 8:11 A.P. by Roth Too many people believe that recieving the Holy Spirit is an end all, when it is actually just the beginning. And the Holy Spirit will lead and guide the believer into all truth [Jn 14:26; 16:13]. However, the Holy Spirit will not force the believer into all truth, the believer must be willing to be led. Each believer must seek after all truth with all their soul. There are many babies in Messiah, who seem to have no desire for the learning and growing which leads to life. They say, let someone else dig in, we will eat of the leftovers and droppings from the table. They answer all Biblical discussions with "my Pastor says, so and so..." or "my church teaches thus..."; instead of, "THE WORD OF YAH SAYS...." They are all seeking out some man or organization to lead them into all truth; instead of letting the Holy Spirit lead them into all truth, as they search out the scriptures for themselves. Paul incourages the latter: "But strong food belongs to the mature who, BEING INVESTIGATORS, have trained their faculties to discriminate good and evil." Hebrews 5:14 A.P. by Roth The Aramaic picture presented of "BEING INVESTIGATORS", is of those who go forth searching and seeking out every truth. These are not persons who are willing to just sit and be taught. These are souls who must prove everything and hold to that which is good. [1 Thes 5:21; Rom 12:2]. When the scripture says, " Baptize them in the NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.", yet believers fail to investigate into the Hebrew Old Testament and Aramaic Peshitta New Testament Scriptures, to find out exactly what "NAME" Yeshua is speaking of; then they are failing to be investigators at all. Therefore, they will believe every lie and half truth, their preacher or denomination tells them. But those Who do investigate, will search the scriptures and Pray to YAH to give the understanding, so that When they hear the truth, they will know it and believe it. Then they will also be CLOTHED WITH THE NAME OF OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA], in water baptism. The Apostle Peter reveals that the flood was a type of baptism. For Noah and his family were saved alive, by riding above the waters in the Ark. This is another instance when the Aramaic Peshitta clarifies the obscure Greek reading. "The like figure Whereunto even 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." 1 Peter 3:21 KJV "And you also, by a like figure, are made alive by baptism, not when you wash your bodies from filth, but when you CONFESS God with a pure conscience, and by the resurrection of Yeshua the Messiah." 1 Peter 3:21 A.P. by Roth [NOTE # 14 1 The word "answer" (eperotema 1906 St's), comes from two words (epi-1909 St's- towards) and (erotao-2065 St's- to interrogate, to request:- ask, beseech, desire, intreat, pray). So my question is how does one add the word "towards" to the word "ask" and get the word "answer"? Therefore, the Greek ought to be rendered: "... but to PRAY UNTO God, for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 3:21 Thus, the original idea presented in the Greek of "PRAYING UNTO GOD", "TO MAKE A REQUEST UNTO GOD", does make more sense. However the Aramaic Peshitta clarifies this action of "pray" and "request" by placing this request in its original Hebrew/ Aramaic Eastern mindset, that is the mindset in which the scriptures were originally written. "... But when you CONFESS God with a pure conscience, and by the resurrection of Yeshua the Messiah." 1 Peter 3:21 A.P. First and foremost, every believer MUST CONFESS that MAR-YAH IS YESHUA. This confession opens one's eyes to the fact that Yeshua is their Lord and the Temple of Yah their God, which is an acknowledgment that MAR-YAH YESHUA is their judge. For once this is understood, the new believer can confess all their known sins unto MAR-YAH YESHUA. While praying for an opening of the eyes, concerning any unknown sins, or anything which may offend their new King. One must then believe in the power of the water and the blood to wash away their sins in baptism, and should understand that they are taking upon themselves the name of the Son, "MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH", in baptism, which will become their garment of salvation, their wedding garment. Then because of their faith in the resurrecting power of YAHWEH, Who raised up MARYAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH from the dead, the new believer is able to come up out of the baptismal waters, in newness of life. That is they come up out of the waters while being filled with the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in unknown tongues, as the Holy Spirit enables them to speak. So you can see, that this Hebrew/Aramaic word "confess", is actually painting a picture of drawing near unto YAHWEH, through His Son MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH. Therefore, this word "confess" must be understood in the full light and use of this word throughout the scriptures. [For a full discussion of confession, see- THE HEBREW KEY, Sec 4, and MAR-YAH IS YESHUA Sec. 6] Confessing YAH before baptism, is a key aspect of Biblical Salvation. That all must make this confession towards YAH, is obvious from scripture (Rom 10:9,12-13; Phil 2:10-11; Rom 14:9-12; Ps 118:14,19-20). [These verses are fully explained in the sections as listed above.] The reason mankind can now make this confession with a pure conscience is because of the resurrection of the MESSIAH. The key aspects of this confession are: 1. Confess that MAR-YAH (the Lord YAH) is become YESHUA (a)ThatYAH was robed in flesh, clothed in a mortal body. (b)That MAR-YAH is the Son of YAHWEH, the word of YAHWEH, the right hand of YAHWEH, thus the extension of the power of YAHWEH unto the earth. 2. Confess that YAH the Son of YAHWEH, willingly offered up His body in sacrifice, and had the power and authority to take His body back. 3. Confess that the body of YAH was laid in a tomb for three days and three nights, while YAH preached to the spirits in Sheol (hell). And that YAH came forth from Sheol, and took back His body, glorifying IT in the process,with the keys of death and sheol (hell) in his hands (power). Then YAH YESHUA ascended up onto heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the power of Yahweh in heaven. [Which means, that the Holy Spirit, the Holy presence of Yahweh, flows forth from the body of YAH YESHUA, without measure, performing signs, wonders and demonstrations of power in the midst of His people.] 4. Confess that all these things happened as a result of the command of Yahweh. Thus it is by the commandment of Yahweh that the accusations of the enemy (devil) against the believer, are put to silence. Thus we all must confess and place ourselves under the authority of Yahweh's righteous law. Understanding that this act of submission to Yahweh's government, will loose us from the unrighteous laws of men, and all of their accusations. 5. Confess the Lordship (MAR-) and the Divinity (-YAH) of YESHUA. Thus acknowledging the right of MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH to be the judge Then confessing all of one's sins faults, failures and shortcomings unto MAR-YAH YESHUA, While falling upon the name of Yeshua, as upon an altar of mercy and grace. This confession before baptism is accompanied with calling on the name of MARYAH YESHUA, before and after baptism, as it is written: "And now, why do you delay? rise up and be baptized, and be cleansed from your sins, while you CALL ON HIS NAME." Acts 22:16 A.P. [Author's trans.] There is a distinction between "BEING CALLED BY THE NAME" and "CALLING ON THE NAME". The new convert will call upon the name of MAR-YAH YESHUA while making their profession of faith unto HIM [1 Tim 3:12; Heb 10:23]. Then the Minister should call the name of OUR-LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA] as they dunk the convert under the water, so that the believer can become clothed with the name of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH. Then once the convert comes up out of the water, they will praise YAH YESHUA, by shouting "HALLELU-YAH YESHUA". For the new convert is born again in the midst of praise! If the Minister understands the significance, he should then lay a hand upon the head of the convert and call the name of YAHWEH over them, as the believer recieves new life, that is the life of Yahweh Which proceeds from the body of MAR-YAH. So that the Son (YAH) and the Father (YAHWEH) will become ONE within the soul of the believer, as they recieve the gift of the Holy Spirit evidenced by speaking in other tongues. [NOTE: YAH the Son, is the LIVING WORD, which is planted into the heart of the New believer. Yet the word alone, cannot grow, without being waterd by the LIVING WATERS, Which are YAHWEH THE FATHER. It is true that faith alone saves, but faith which does not follow the Biblical pattern is not faith at all, but rather, unbelief.] There are those who argue against their own souls. They are their own worse enemy! "Behold, therefore how much he suffered from sinners, for THEY WERE ADVERSARIES OF THEIR OWN SOUL,..." Hebrews 12:3 A.P. by Roth Far too many still oppose themselves by arguing against the tenets of their faith. There is a reason why these things are written. The enemy wants to strip; the believer of their garment of salvation, of their wedding garment, which is the name of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA] in baptism. The enemy is striving to talk new believers out of the power of the blood to work through the water, to wash away their sins. And even after water baptism in the name, the enemy still opposes the belief, that one's sins were washed away, in water baptism, as the believer confesses that MAR-YAH IS YESHUA, and confesses all their sins unto HIM. There is a picture formed by two different Aramaic words, which shed light on our understanding of belief and faith. These words are: 1. Tupsa- like figure/pattern (note #15) 2. pys/phys- Belief/Obey (note #15) NOTE: A similarity of letters occurs as phys/pys is placed in the future tense, eT't'phys. Causing the word for believe to look very similar to the word for 'likeness, example, manner. Now it is certain that the primary meaning of (tuwps) as found in 1 Peter 3:21, is (like figure/simili/pattern), however it's similarity to the future tense of belief, is worth our time investigating. "And also you who BELIEVE in HIM, are made alive by baptism, not When you wash the bodies from filth, but when you make a confession unto God with a pure conscience, and by the resurrection of Yeshua the Messiah." 1 Peter 3:21 Aramaic Peshitta Second layer of meaning [NOTE # 15 ] Only believers are made alive through baptism, as it is written: "Whoever believes and is immersed (baptized) will live, and whoever does not believe will be condemned." Mark 16:16 A.P. by Roth This relationship between "belief" and "baptism", is just one reason to understand that (tuwpsa-pattern/simili), could also be understood to convey the idea of (belief). The following is an example of a confession of faith, which follows the Biblical pattern. I confess that Yahweh my creator cannot be contained in the heaven of heavens, and is omnipresent. I confess that Yahweh sent forth His word to the earth, which is called "YAH" the Son of Yahweh; and that YAH was clothed with a mortal body, and appeared unto mankind as "YESHUA" (MY SALVATION). Yahweh offerd up His Son MAR-YAH YESHUA to be crucified on a tree for my sins and the sins of all who call upon HIM in faith. And the body of MAR-YAH, even "YESHUA" was in the tomb for three days and three nights, while MAR-YAH was in Sheol (hell), preaching to the spirits confined there. Then after three days and three nights YAH YESHUA ascended up from Sheol and from the tomb with the keys of death and sheol (hell). Afterwards, MAR-YAH YESHUA ascended up into the heavens and is seated upon the throne of God, shining forth as the Sun in all its power and radiance. Revealing that all the power. of Yahweh is given unto and working through MAR-YAH YESHUA, to judge mankind and to forgive those who repent and call upon His name. I confess that the waters of baptism, which ritually cleanse the body of filth, are a type of the inward washing of the blood and covering of the name of the Son, as of a garment of Salvation, as my wedding garment, from which the sinner is purified from all sins through faith. Once a sinner comes to understand and believe these foundational truths with all their heart, they can then make this confession with a pure conscience. The play on words between tuphas (simili, pattern) and the future tense of belief eT't'phys, makes a further inquiry into these words, worth considering. Because there is a Hebrew word which has these same root letters, which is 'taphas'. 'Taphas' means to be "fat, lazy, sluggish"; thus to be inactive, inert, stupid, unconvinced (to take action). However, on the other hand, this can also have a good connotation, which is: To be "plump with a healthy dose of fat"; thus to be actively seeking, following after that which is good and healthy. Thus to follow the pattern (tups) of Yeshua and the apostles, and to perform their words, would be 'belief' (tips). In the following example (tips) is used in the negative sense, and is contrasted with the Hebrew root word for believe, which is 'amen'. [note #15] "He Who believes 'aman' in the Son has life that is eternal, and he Who does not OBEY (meth-T'pis) the Son will not see life, rather the wrath of God will rise up against him." John 3:36 A.P. by Roth To actively follow after, to follow the pattern, is to obey. While inaction, is to be unmoved by the example, which is disobedience and unbelief. To see the pattern in the scriptures, but to remain unconvined to move in faith. Even the Greek word for "belief" (Pistis and Peitho) also has the dual meaning of "belief/obey". For this reason, every educated reader of the scriptures ought to be able to look beyond their English translation, to see that "believe not" in this context, has to be understood as "obey not". The Greek also uses a (alpha) at the beginning of (peitheo/belief) to indicate the negative, that is "believe not/obey not" (apeitheo). With these things in mind, one can understand that the King James Version obscures this issue, with "believe not"! [note #15] "He that believeth.on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of god abideth on him." John 3:36 KJV The J.P. Green Interlinear of the Greek New Testament also reveals that in this context, this ought to be understood as "obey not". Those who argue against "obeying" the gospel in "baptism" are showing by their own arguments, that they are really unbelievers. Those Who argue against the power of the blood of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA], which becomes active and powerful in the life of the believer during baptism, are also denying the power of God which works in the lives of those Who show their belief and faith in MAR-YAH YESHUA, by following the pattern in His word. In effect, those who argue against the necessity of baptism are working with the enemy of our souls to strip each and every one of us of our wedding garment, which is given to us, as we exercise our faith in MAR-YAH YESHUA, by being baptized into His name. For these false believers desire for us to appear like them, at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, without a wedding garment. Belief which lacks action, is not Biblical belief at all, but rather demonstrates a pattern of unbelief. The Apostle Peter illustrates this idea very well: "On you therefore Who believe (aman) is this honor conferred: but to them Who do not OBEY (T'piysa-believe not), 'He is a stone of stunbling and a rock of offense.' And they stumble at it because they OBEY(T'piys) NOT the word appointed for them." 1 Peter 2:7-8 of the Aramaic Peshitta Then the Apostle Peter shows the believer how to take the letters of (T'piys-Obey/ believe) and how to understand them in a good sense, through the word (tuwps-simili/ pattern). For the active belief of (tiyps) will cause one to follow after, and seek after that which leads to life. "For to this were you called; because the Messiah also died for us and left us THIS PATTERN (tuwpsa) that you should walk in his steps." 1 Peter 2:21 A.P. by Roth Therefore, the example and pattern (tuwpsa) of MAR-YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH, becomes belief in the believer as they begin to follow HIS footsteps. As they begin to act out the pattern left us in the Gospel. Yeshua was baptized to fulfill all righteousness (MT 3:15), so that His people would follow HIS example and the pattern in scriptures and also become baptized. However, Yeshua was without sin (2 Cor 5:21), and this is Why HE was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. But all of HIS people have some amount of sin in their lives, which is Why they are baptized for the remission/forgiveness/release of sins, (Acts 2:38), and to wash away their sins (Acts 22:16). Therefore, the preacher or teacher who says a believer ought to be baptized to fulfill all righteousness, is improperly applying the words of life, and has no discernment between the sinlessness of MAR-YAH YESHUA, and the sinfulness of His people. [NOTE: It is important to pay close attention to what the minister says as you are being baptized. Does he preach the importance of the NAME in baptism? Does he teach that baptism is for the washing away and forgiveness of sins? If he does not do these things, then its best to wait and find a minister who believes the word.] The name of OUR LORD YAH YESHUA THE MESSIAH [MARANA-YAH YESHUA MASHIYCHA] is our wedding garment, that we must wear at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. There are some who will attempt to enter into the MARRIAGE SUPPER without PUTTING ON THIS NAME in baptism, therefore their sins will not be covered by the blood of the Lamb, and they will be cast into outer darkness were there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (MT 22:13). However, the calling of the Holy Spirit is definitely on any individual who ascends to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, but they were not chosen to wear the garment of salvation (MT 22:14). The Holy Spirit is calling many today, and even filling them with the gift of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongus, but only a select few of these Who are called, will actually be chosen to wear and become clothed with the NAME IN BAPTISM. "...'bind his hands and his feet and cast him into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth!' For many are those that are called, and few are Chosen." Matthew 22:13-14 A.P. by Roth Right now the choice is up to you. What group do you aspire to be a part of? Those who are merely called? Or rather, those WHO ARE CHOSEN?