Recently a sister in the faith called me concerning a member of her family who previously had no tendencies to live according to Biblical principles. This family member was beginning to question their life style and was asking certain questions concerning what the Bible said. She called, being very excited about her relative’s turn-around, and asked me what kind of literature we had available in order to help a new person to come into the faith. After thinking for a moment or two I had to sheepishly reply that we had nothing available for a person who was coming out of this world, with no prior Biblical knowledge.

It seems that we not only focus primarily on the names (which are important), but then we become forced to deal with disagreements and doctrinal issues among ourselves. Then we forget to focus on the little babe that is not only seeking, but indeed, needing spiritual nourishment and a guiding light in order to come out of the spiritual darkness and blindness of this present evil world.

Some time ago I produced a series of radio programs entitled "The Seven Steps to the Kingdom." One family wrote a note of encouragement concerning this series and mentioned that they hoped that it would eventually be made into a booklet. This booklet is a result of those two requests.

While we do not want to produce something that is too lengthy and bogged down with details, we do want to be as thorough as we possibly can so that a newly called person will get the proper perspective. We trust that a new babe that is being called out of this world into the marvelous light of the good news, will be hungering and thirsting enough to desire to devour this booklet and then move to fulfil the required steps in order to come to the new birth, YAHWEH'S Kingdom and eternal life.

It is hoped that this booklet will furnish a basic stepping stone and guideline for a newly called person to understand what must be done in order to apprehend the way to life. May YAHWEH richly bless those who read and follow these simple steps.

One of the characteristics of this world is that it is temporary. While the heavens, the sun, the moon and the earth have existed longer than any man can remember or can even begin to compute closely (estimates are that the earth has existed for around 4.5 billion years, plus or minus .5 billion years for tolerance), we do know that they came into being at a certain point in time and somewhere in the future they will cease to exist.

Scripture verifies this for we read in Gen. 1:1, "In the beginning Elohim created the heavens and the earth." In Heb. 1:8-12 we read, "But unto the Son He saith, ‘Thy throne, O Elohim, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of Thy Kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore Elohim, even thy Elohim, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows. And, Thou, Sovereign, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of Thine hands: They shall perish; but Thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; And as a vesture shalt Thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but Thou art the same, and Thy years shall not fail."

While secular science does tell us that the heavens and earth had a beginning and will come to an end, corroborating the Scriptures to a point, science denies the Creator and embarks on an eternal search concerning the reason why and how it all began. As long as they reject the knowledge of the Creator, they will never come to the knowledge of the truth of it all.

But one thing is for sure and certain, even as the creation has a beginning and an end, man also has a beginning and an ending to his life. Our life is temporal, yet most of us live our lives as if it is going to continue forever. So many people have followed a false teaching in believing that we have an immortal soul. This untrue belief is after the fashion of the first man, Adam.

Adam was placed in a garden. The garden was named Eden, also being called the garden of Elohim (Ezekiel 28:13; 31:8-9). The man was made the sovereign ruler over the earth and was to govern from this garden of Elohim. He was supposed to dress and keep this garden, also being able to eat of every tree of the garden, except one specific tree that was placed in the midst of the garden. This tree was named "the tree of the knowledge of good and evil."

YAHWEH cautioned the man to not eat of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, "for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die," Gen. 2:17. A better translation of this statement would be, "for in the day that thou eatest thereof dying thou shalt die."

In other words, the minute that he took and ate of that tree the death penalty would be on his head. He was as good as dead from that point, but it would take a period of time for the process of sin, corruption and death to work its deadly work.

Surely things were wondrous and glorious in that beautiful garden. Adam and Eve were pure, clean, sinless. So sinless that they were totally naked and not ashamed. But a more sinister and evil being was allowed to enter the garden. This being was called the serpent (nachash). It is revealed in Rev. 12:9 that this serpent is named Satan the devil.

Satan asked the woman, "Yea, hath Elohim said, ‘Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, ‘We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, Elohim hath said, ‘Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die’.’ And the serpent said unto the woman, ‘Ye shall not surely die: for Elohim doth know that in the day that ye eat thereof ye shall be as Elohim, knowing good and evil’," Gen. 3:1-5.

Even though the woman was deceived by the serpent, she truly believed him. She and her husband went on a journey to the midst of the garden, observed the tree and couldn’t see anything wrong with it, as a matter of fact, it looked as if it were a tree to be desired to make one wise (Gen. 3:6). So she took of the fruit and did eat of it and gave it to her husband with her and he ate of it (Ibid).

The history of man is filled with belief in and reverence for and worship of the serpent. Even though the man Adam was not deceived, his wife, Eve was. Adam followed along with her in the act of disobedience, thus succumbing to the serpent’s lie and spell. Thus man began to believe and follow the serpent Satan, the father of lies, disbelieving his own Creator YAHWEH.

The serpent told them that they would become as Elohim. He told them that they would not surely die. Elohim cannot die, therefore man is as Elohim possessing an immortal soul. This is a teaching which has been embraced by the pagan religions and sadly, is also embraced by Judaism, Christianity, Islam, etc.

Just what is death? What is it like to die? Death is defined by Webster’s New World Dictionary as: 1. the act or fact of dying; permanent ending of all life in a person, animal, or plant 3. the state of being dead 4. any ending resembling dying; total destruction 8. [obs.] pestilence.

The major Hebrew word used for death is "mooth" which also is defined in Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance as: to die, kill or destroy (#4191 of the Hebrew Lexicon).

From these definitions and others, we find that death is a state of destruction, the cessation of life. Death is the opposite condition to life. Life is full of vitality, movement, awareness, ability. Death is the absence of those qualities.

What does YAHWEH'S word have to say about death? David cried out, "O YAHWEH, rebuke me not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. Have mercy upon me, O YAHWEH; for I am weak: O YAHWEH, heal me; for my bones are vexed. My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O YAHWEH, how long? Return, O YAHWEH, deliver my soul: oh save me for thy mercies' sake. For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?" Psa. 6:1-5.

David says that in death there is no remembrance (memory). This has to do with awareness. This is supported by other Scriptures such as: "Put not your trust in princes, nor in the Son of Man, in whom there is no help. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish," Psa. 146:3-4. "The dead praise not Yah, neither any that go down into silence," Psa. 115:17. Isaiah says, "For the grave cannot praise Thee, death can not celebrate Thee: they that go down into the pit cannot hope for Thy truth. The living, the living, he shall praise Thee, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known Thy truth," 38:18-19.

Once a person is dead, their hope is gone, their memory ceases, their thoughts perish. Solomon was inspired to say, "All things come alike to all: there is one event to the righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to the clean, and to the unclean; to him that sacrificeth, and to him that sacrificeth not: as is the good, so is the sinner; and he that sweareth, as he that feareth an oath. This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun, that there is one event unto all: yea, also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and madness is in their heart while they live, and after that they go to the dead. For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion. For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing, neither have they any more a reward; for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished; neither have they any more a portion for ever in any thing that is done under the sun," Eccl. 9:2-6.

Because of Adam’s sin, he not only died, but he also brought death upon every man. The Apostle Paul writes, "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (for until the law win was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of Him That was to come," Ro. 5:12-14.

Adam was a figure (type) of YAHshua. All men (except YAHshua) have been born through Adam. We inherit something from Adam and we inherit something from YAHshua. What we inherit from Adam is sin, corruption and death. What we inherit from YAHshua is righteousness, incorruption and life.

Paul also wrote, "Now if the Messiah be preached that He rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is the Messiah not risen: And if the Messiah be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of YAHWEH, because we have testified of YAHWEH that He raised up the Messiah: Whom He raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not the Messiah raised: And if the Messiah be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in the Messiah are perished. If in this life only we have hope in the Messiah, we are of all men most miserable. But now is the Messiah risen from the dead, and become the Firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in the Messiah shall all be made alive," 1 Cor. 15:12-22.... "For the love of the Messiah constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if One died for all, then were all dead; and that He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him Which died for them, and rose again," 2 Cor. 5:14-15.

Even when we are conceived in the womb and brought forth into the light of this world, there is one thing that is sure. We will die and leave this world again. We have inherited vanity through the first man, Adam, but we can inherit a better life, a better substance and the Kingdom of Elohim through YAHshua the Messiah, the Son of our heavenly Father YAHWEH.

How are we to inherit this better life, this better substance, this Kingdom of Elohim?

One named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Pharisees came to YAHshua under the cloak of darkness to speak with Him (Jn. 3:1). Nicodemus said, "Rabbi, we know that Thou art a teacher come from Elohim: for no man can do these miracles that Thou doest, except Elohim be with him," v. 2.

YAHshua answered, "Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of Elohim," v. 3.

Nicodemus was stunned by this statement. He asked incredulously, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?" v. 4.

YAHshua explained, "Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of Elohim. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit," vv. 5-6.

This "born again" concept has been a concept that many in our world today have misunderstood. So many believe that if a person has an emotional experience, or some kind of giddy feeling in prayer or in a service, that they are immediately "born again." Thus they go around proclaiming that they have been "born again," not understanding the fullest ramifications of the subject.

The words "born again" employed in the English translation do not appropriate the proper justice to YAHshua's words here. Actually, they have a tendency to mislead one from the original intent.

"Born again" is translated from the Greek words gennhqh/| a;nwqen (gennete anothen) which would better be translated as "conceived from above."

The English language has different words in order to convey the difference between conceive (-d) and born (birth). The Greek language utilizes only one root word to convey the idea of the birth process from conception to the birth itself. That word is "gennao."

The Greek word "gennao" in reality, conveys the idea of something "generated" or "regenerated." Thus, the reason for the Greek name of the first book of the Bible, Genesis, because both the word Genesis (a derivative of gennao) and the book have to do with beginning, generating, or regenerating.

In Mat. 1:18 we read, "Now the birth (Gk. = ge,nnhsij [gennesis]) of YAHshua the Messiah was on this wise: When as His mother Miriam was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with Child of the Holy Spirit."

The English word "birth" utilized here, once again confuses the issue. YAHshua was not yet born. He had been conceived in the womb by the Holy Spirit. Verse 18 is explaining the genesis (generating/conception) of YAHshua in the womb.

In Mat. 1:20 we read, "But while he (Joseph) thought on these things, behold, the angel of YAHWEH appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived (Gk. = gennhqe.n [genneten]) in her is of the Holy Spirit."

Here in Mat. 1:20 we have the proper rendering concerning what is meant because at the time YAHshua was conceived, but not yet born.

As stated, so many people who have a "religious experience" or some special event that changes their lives, or think that they have received the Holy Spirit, will proclaim that they have been "born again."

When YAHshua went to John to be baptized in the river Jordan a tremendous thing occurred for we read, "And YAHshua, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him, and He saw the Spirit of Elohim descending like a dove, and lighting upon Him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in Whom I am well pleased," Mat. 3:16-17.

Now this was quite an experience indeed! However, there are no New Testament Scriptures that I can find wherein it is stated that YAHshua proclaimed He had been "born again."

From that time YAHshua had many experiences, having power over all sicknesses, demons, and evil spirits. He did spiritual combat with the arch-demon Satan and was victorious over all, yet never proclaimed that He had been born again.

The question now is, when was YAHshua born again? When will we be born again? The Apostle Paul gives us the answer. Paul, speaking of YAHshua wrote, "Who (YAHshua) is the image of the invisible Elohim the Firstborn of every creature," Col. 1:15.

Paul continues, "And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the Assembly: Who is the beginning, the Firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the pre-eminence," Col. 1:17-18.

Here is the explanation! YAHshua was born again by being resurrected from the dead!

YAHshua was different from us in the fact that He was twice conceived from above. However, that first conception brought Him forth as flesh. According to YAHshua and Paul, we cannot inherit the Kingdom of Heaven while we exist as flesh and blood.

Remember that YAHshua told Nicodemus, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born (Gk. = gennhqh/ [gennete], generated, conceived) of water and of the spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of Elohim. That which is born (Gk. = gegennhme,non [gennemenon], generated, conceived) of flesh is flesh; and that which is born (Gk. = gegennhme,non [gennemenon], generated, conceived) of Spirit is spirit," Jn. 3:5-6.

Paul writes, "Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of Elohim; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed," 1 Cor. 15:50-52.

The Apostle Paul further reveals, "That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he (the heavenly Father) might gather together in one all things in the Messiah, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in Him: In Whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him Who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will: That we should be to the praise of His glory, who first trusted in the Messiah. In Whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation: in Whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of His glory," Eph. 1:10-14.

Notice that the true believer is sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, but he only receives an "earnest" of the Spirit. What is an earnest?

Anyone who has bought a home should understand what this term means. If a home is for sale and the owner or real estate agent finds an interested party, then an earnest money contract is drawn up which allows the interested party to hold the property until all of the necessary paperwork and financing terms can be drawn up. Once everything is in order, then the deal can be consummated.

Webster’s New World Dictionary aptly describes this earnest contract: 1. money given as a part payment and pledge in binding a bargain: in full, earnest money 2. something given or done as an indication or assurance of what is to come; token.

In the case between us and YAHWEH, the Scriptures reveal that the party looking for a dwelling place is YAHWEH. He wants to live in us. He wants to take us as living stone in His future temple. If we are willing, then an earnest contract must be drawn up between us and Him. He bestows the earnest of the spirit ("...the holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession...," Eph. 1:13-14).

When we receive the Holy Sprit we are not only sealed, but we are also spiritually conceived from above.

The redemption of the purchased possession and the spiritual birth both occur at the first resurrection.

But there are certain steps that one must take if he is to inherit YAHWEH'S Kingdom, be born again and become a purchased possession through YAHshua. As a matter of fact, there are seven steps that one must go through in order to apprehend the Kingdom and eternal life. While those steps may be familiar to us, how many of us have understood or even thought that these steps have a perfect order which follow in succession.

If you have embarked on the journey then you are walking through the seven steps whether you realize it or not. Hopefully this will be a reminder and help for you to complete that journey. But if you have not yet begun the journey, this treatise will enable you to walk the pathway in a more sure manner.

The first step that we must take is to be called and chosen. While this first step sounds simple enough, there is a problem here. YAHshua warned, "...for many be called, but few chosen," Mat. 20:16 (last part).

YAHshua warned in a parable, "And YAHshua answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, ‘Tell them which are bidden, ‘Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage’.’ But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: and the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, ‘The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.’ So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. 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," Mat. 22:1-14.

The essence of the problem is that many truly are called to inherit YAHWEH'S Kingdom, to become conceived again in order to experience the birth of the Spirit, to become a dwelling place for YAHWEH, to be resurrected from the dead and to receive eternal life, but people get so caught up in the affairs of this life and this world, that they simply do not respond to the calling.

This parable was given to instruct us not only concerning the people of YAHshua's day and our world today, but also to instruct us concerning both Israel and Judah in the days of the prophets. YAHWEH warned Israel, "And I will bring forth a seed out of Jacob, and out of Judah an inheritor of My mountains: and Mine Elect shall inherit it, and My servants shall dwell there. And Sharon shall be a fold of flocks, and the valley of Achor a place for the herds to lie down in, for My people that have sought Me. But ye are they that forsake YAHWEH, that forget My holy mountain, that prepare a table for that troop, and that furnish the drink offering unto that number. Therefore will I number you to the sword, and ye shall all bow down to the slaughter: because when I called, ye did not answer; when I spake, ye did not hear; but did evil before Mine eyes, and did choose that wherein I delighted not," Isa. 65:9-12.

The prophet Jeremiah was also inspired to write, "Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit. Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not; And come and stand before Me in this house, which is called by My name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations? Is this house, which is called by My name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I have seen it, saith YAHWEH. But go ye now unto My place which was in Shiloh, where I set my name at the first, and see what I did to it for the wickedness of My people Israel. And now, because ye have done all these works, saith YAHWEH, and I spake unto you, rising up early and speaking, but ye heard not; and I called you, but ye answered not; Therefore will I do unto this house, which is called by My name, wherein ye trust, and unto the place which I gave to you and to your fathers, as I have done to Shiloh. And I will cast you out of My sight, as I have cast out all your brethren, even the whole seed of Ephraim. Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them, neither make intercession to Me: for I will not hear thee," Jer. 7:8-16.

YAHWEH warned the people that if they didn’t respond to His calling, He would not only destroy them, but He would also destroy the house which had been built in the honor of His name. The people refused to respond and eventually went into captivity. The house wherein YAHWEH'S name dwelt was destroyed, as He said.

Again, YAHshua warned the people of His day, "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it," Mat. 7:13-14.

YAHshua went into a litany of warnings and condemnations against the scribes and Pharisees in Mat. 23. He finally warned, "Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. Verily I say unto you, All these things shall come upon this generation. O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate," Mat. 23:33-38.

YAHWEH had sent His Son according to the parable, but the people slew the son in order to take over the vineyard. The people of that day had a golden opportunity. Had they responded to the calling, they would have been spared from the destructive power of the Roman army. Jerusalem and the second temple would have remained, but they didn’t respond and had to be overthrown, destroyed and expelled.

The same can happen to us in our day if we do not respond to YAHWEH'S calling. The calling is going out. Is the Kingdom of Heaven and YAHWEH'S dwelling place important enough to you that you are willing to respond?

YAHshua spoke a parable concerning a sower who went forth to sow seeds (Mat. 13:1-9). In this parable some of the seeds fell by the wayside which were eaten by fowls. Others fell upon stony places which sprang up quickly, but also withered quickly when the sun came up. Still others fell among thorns which sprang up and choked them. Finally there were those which fell in the good earth. These last brought forth fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold and some thirty fold.

YAHshua further explained this parable to His disciples, "Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. When any one heareth the word of the Kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart," Mat. 13:18-19.

Notice it! The sower is one who is sowing the word of the Kingdom. The word of the Kingdom is being sown to the many in this world which YAHshua is characterizing as those by the wayside, those who are among thorns, those who are in stony places and those who are the good earth.

Those by the wayside are those who are living totally outside the realm of the Scriptures. The Scriptures, which are YAHWEH'S word, have not been a part of their culture. They cannot understand the Scriptures because their culture and life style is to live life without such instruction. YAHWEH'S word depicts THE WAY in which one should live. These are not in the way at all, they are by the wayside (outside of the way). Thus, when the words of the Kingdom come to them, they understand them not.

The word "understandeth" utilized in v. 19 for these by the wayside means to put together, comprehend, to act piously, be wise. Since they are out of the way, they do not know how to be wise enough to live according to YAHWEH'S word. When they hear the word, they simply can’t put it together, can’t comprehend and understand it. The wicked one comes and takes the seed out of his heart even before the seed can germinate. Their life is totally unproductive for the kingdom’s sake.

The next category receive the seed into stony places. I have seen this example in the stony places of Missouri and elsewhere. It is amazing how the seeds of cedar trees can be sown by the wind into the edges of cliffs and rocks where the seed springs up because there is enough earth there for the seed to germinate and to support a small seedling, but as the tree grows larger the demands of nutrients from the soil become greater. There is not enough earth to keep up with the demands so the seedling perishes because it cannot develop the root system required to keep up with the demanding needs of growth.

There was a popular song back in the 60’s titled "Hearts Made of Stone." This is an apt title and description for this second category of people. Their hearts have too many hard and stony places. They can receive the word of the Kingdom and rejoice over it. It germinates in their heart producing a seedling, but there are simply too many hard feelings. There is not enough earth, nor is there enough water (spirit) to continue to nourish the plant. When some trial or trouble arises (represented by the heat of the sun which bears down greatly in the heat of the day) their heart hardens and they fall away. The work begun in them withers and dies.

The next category is the seeds that fall into thorns. These are the ones who care more for the present world than that which is to come. They love the deceitfulness of riches.

The Apostle Paul wrote an appropriate description of this category, "If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, and to the doctrine which is according to piety; he is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes, railings, evil surmisings, perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is piety: from such withdraw thyself. But piety with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows," 1 Tim. 6:3-10.

Finally, the fourth category are those who receive the seed in good ground. These understand the word that is being sown in their heart. They are able to put it together, comprehend it, and act piously according to YAHWEH'S word. They are wise because they fear YAHWEH, "The fear of YAHWEH is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding," Prov. 9:10.

Here are the four categories of the many. All are called by the word of the Kingdom being sown to them. The fourth category are the few who are elected or chosen.

A couple of other parables were given in Mat. 13 which apply in this situation, "Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls; who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it," vv. 44-46.

The call to YAHWEH'S Kingdom is a wondrously precious calling. It is a prize worth so much more than anything that this world with all its riches and creature comforts can even begin to offer.

The importance of this calling to the believer was made even more obvious to us by YAHshua, "And when He had called the people unto Him with His disciples also, He said unto them, ‘Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for My sake and the good news’, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of Me and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of Man be ashamed, when He cometh in the glory of His Father with the holy angels’," Mk. 8:34-38.

Once again, the call to the Kingdom must mean more than any possession that a person has including his own wife, children, brothers, sisters, father, mother, etc. That is why only a few are elected, because the many are not willing to forsake all in order to apprehend the coming Kingdom and eternal life.

One other thing that we need to focus on before moving on to step #2, is the concept of living by faith and not by sight. The Apostle Paul writes, "For we walk by faith, not by sight," 2 Cor. 5:7.

A natural human tendency is to trust in things that we can see, not things that we can’t see. We live in a world that loves to see beauty no matter how deceptive that beauty can be. A man desires a beautiful woman and, vice versa, a woman generally desires a handsome man. But just because they are beautiful or handsome, it doesn’t mean that marriage to or life with them will be pleasant at all.

With the advent of the media of movies and television we can even see this distinction much more clearly. The screen stars in the primary roles must be highly photogenic in order to capture the hearts and minds of the people. The villain is usually made up to look ugly and evil so that the people hate and despise this ugly creature and are able to greatly rejoice when the handsome star and beautiful starlet get the victory over the ugly, evil villain.

It matters not that the handsome star and the beautiful starlet may have the ugliest of natures in their own private life, while the villain may be one of the most noble and beautiful of people on the inside and in his private life. The handsome star and the beautiful starlet may have a problem with drinking, drugs, immorality, infidelity, etc., but it matters not to the public who see their false portrayals on the silver screen, fall in love with them and put them on the highest of pedestals. They are actually made into a religion, for the famous star and starlets are actually called icons or idols. This, in reality, is idolatry. A type of worship and religion is made of the beautiful, photogenic ones who are portrayed on the silver screen as stars, starlets, heroes and heroines, no matter what their lifestyle may be.

The advertising media has long realized this and has effectively learned how to utilize the young, beautiful and photogenic ones for the purpose of selling goods. The advertisers know that it is not whether their sales ad is true or not, it is whether they have produced lustful beauty in the eye of the beholder.

Those who are swayed by such ado are living by sight and not by faith. The natural carnal tendency is to trust in the things that we see, whether it be beauty, possessions, bank accounts, feats, abilities, etc.

Paul writes concerning what the attitude of the true believer must be, "...though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal," 2 Cor. 4:16-18.

The people of YAHshua's day were also swayed by the things seen, "Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, "Master, we would see a sign from Thee.’ But He answered and said unto them, ‘An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas: For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here. The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here’," Mat. 12:38-42.

In another place we read, "The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired Him that He would shew them a sign from heaven. He answered and said unto them, ‘When it is evening, ye say, ‘It will be fair weather: for the sky is red.’ And in the morning, ‘It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring.’ O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas." And He left them, and departed," Mat. 16:1-4.

The Scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees were all taken up with that which they could see. They wanted to see heavenly signs and miracles in order to believe. Even their walk of faith was an outward, exterior religion and not a heartfelt, inward faith of true belief as YAHshua pointed out, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. Woe unto you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity, " Mat. 23:25-28.

Clearly, the walk of the New Testament believer is an important walk of faith that must come from the inside, from a heart that has been changed from the natural carnal heart which delights in and believes the things which it is able to see, to a heart that believes in and delights in the things which are unable to be seen.

One of YAHshua's disciples even bears the distinction and repute of the "doubting Thomas" because when he was informed of YAHshua's resurrection from the dead he didn’t believe, "But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when YAHshua came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, ‘We have seen the Master.’ But he said unto them, ‘Except I shall see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into His side, I will not believe.’ And after eight days again His disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came YAHshua, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, ‘Peace be unto you.’ Then saith He to Thomas, ‘Reach hither thy finger, and behold My hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into My side: and be not faithless, but believing.’ And Thomas answered and said unto Him, ‘My Sovereign and my Elohim.’ YAHshua said unto him, ‘Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed," Jn. 20:24-29.

The faith of the New Testament believer is the faith that truly trusts in YAHWEH'S word, believes that He is, and has the power to deliver into the life to come, no matter the situation in his life as we read in the book of Hebrews, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of YAHWEH, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which do appear," Heb. 11:1-3. (Note: Look at this absolutely scientific statement! It was not until our modern day that the scientists have been able to postulate concerning the make-up of the atomic structure. First they theorized and then they produced the equipment and experiments to prove this theory, but had they turned to the Scriptures, they would never have had to theorize anything! If they had simply exercised true faith, they would have believed and known it as a reality. But their research has come from an unbelieving heart which is instructed in the theory of evolution, another faith that believes in the creation without a Creator. Yet even in their faithlessness, their experiments have conclusively proven YAHWEH'S word to be true, HalleluYAH!.)

"By faith Abel offered unto YAHWEH a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, YAHWEH testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because YAHWEH had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased YAHWEH. But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to Elohim must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. By faith Noah, being warned of YAHWEH of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is YAHWEH. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged Him faithful Who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore YAHWEH is not ashamed to be called their Elohim: for He hath prepared for them a city," Heb. 1:4-16.

This is the faith of the patriarchs. This faith is the faith of the New Testament believer. He knows and is assured of better things to come, of a better life, of a better body, a better habitation simply because YAHWEH'S word promises such. This faith is imparted through the true Messiah, YAHshua as the apostle Peter writes, "Peter, an apostle of YAHshua the Messiah, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect, according to the foreknowledge of YAHWEH the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of YAHshua the Messiah: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied. Blessed be the Elohim and Father of our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, Which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten (conceived) us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of YAHshua the Messiah from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and of undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of YAHWEH through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations, that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of YAHshua the Messiah: Whom having not seen, ye love; in Whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls,’ 1 Pet. 1:1-9.

Brethren, many are called, but few are chosen because they not only get too caught up in the world and the things that they can see, taste and experience in this life, but they also fail to exercise the faith that saves, thus, few are chosen. We encourage you turn to the faith that saves. When the calling goes out, listen, pay heed to it and respond, believing that something much better is prepared for you in the life to come than what your can possess or experience in this short, temporary life span.

The second step to YAHWEH'S Kingdom is to repent. In the book of Matthew we read, "In those days came John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness of Judæa,, and saying, ‘Repent ye: for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.’ For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying, ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepare ye the way of YAHWEH, make His paths straight.’ And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins: and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judæa, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, ‘O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruit meet for repentance: and think not to say within yourselves, ‘We have Abraham to our father:’ for I say unto you, that Elohim is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but He That cometh after me is mightier than I, Whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: He shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit, and with fire: Whose fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly purge His floor, and gather His wheat into the garner; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire," 3:1-12.

Notice that John commands repentance and the bringing forth of the fruits of repentance for the Kingdom of Elohim is at hand. How is it that the Kingdom of Elohim was at hand during that period of time? It is because of the appearance of YAHshua the One Who was to be anointed as Savior and King. John encouraged them to prepare the way of YAHWEH, or in this case before YAHWEH. It has been almost 2,000 years since these events took place. We are so much closer to the return of the Messiah and the establishing of the Kingdom of Heaven on this earth. Certainly we should be readying ourselves for the upcoming event. With each passing day, week, month, year, decade and century we come closer and closer to the time of the establishment of YAHWEH'S Kingdom on earth. It is closer now than any time in the history of man, yet, the closer we get to it, the less aware people seem to be concerning its promised appearing.

YAHshua continued the message of repentance after John’s demise, "Now after that John was put in prison, YAHshua came into Galilee, preaching the good news of the Kingdom of Elohim, and saying ‘The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of Elohim is at hand: repent ye, and believe the good news," Mk. 1:14-15.

He continued the message throughout His ministry. Luke records, "There were present at that season some that told Him of the Galilæans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And YAHshua answering said unto them, ‘Suppose ye that these Galilæans were sinners above all the Galilæans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, Nay: but except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish," 13:1-5.

Look at how meaningful this message of repentance is! One must repent or he/she will perish. The word "perish" is translated from the Greek word "apollumi" which means to destroy fully, perish, lose, die. Except one repents he will be fully destroyed, he will lose the opportunity to experience the Kingdom of Elohim!

The message of repentance did not change after YAHshua's resurrection. When the Holy Spirit was given on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2), the apostles were inspired to lift up the voice and cry out concerning repentance. The Apostle Peter encouraged, "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of YAHWEH," Acts 3:19.

What is repentance? What does it mean to repent? The word "repent" is translated from the Greek word "metanoeo". It is #3340 in Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance (Greek Dictionary) and is defined as, to think differently or afterwards, i.e. reconsider (mor. feel compunction). The word "repentance" is word #3341 "metanoia" and is defined as, from 3340; (subj.) compunction (for guilt, includ. reformation); by impl. reversal (of [another’s] decision).

There are two primary Hebrew words that are translated into the English word repent. They are "nacham" and "shuwb". Nacham is #5162 in the Hebrew Dictionary of Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance being defined as, a prim. root; prop. to sigh, i.e. breathe strongly; by impl. to be sorry, i.e. (in a favorable sense) to pity, console or (reflex.) rue; or (unfavorably) to avenge (oneself).

"Shuwb" is #7725 and is defined as, a prim. root; to turn back (hence, away) trans. or intrans., lit. or fig. (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point); gen. to retreat; often adv. again.

Webster’s New World Dictionary defines "repent" as, 1. to feel sorry or self-reproachful for what one has done or failed to do; be conscience-stricken or contrite 2. to feel such regret or dissatisfaction over some past action, intention, etc. as to change one’ mind about 3. to feel so contrite over one’s sins as to change, or decide to change one’s ways; be penitent.

Thus to repent or the act of repentance has to do with remorse and contrition for something that a person has done or failed to do and to turn and change one’s mind and lifestyle from one direction to another.

Notice again that Peter says to "Repent and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out...," Acts 3:19. Since "to repent" means to feel sorry or self-reproachful for what one has done or failed to do, then what is it that we have done or failed to do? What is it that we must repent of, change our ways from or change decide to change to?

Peter says "that your sins may be blotted out." Just what is sin anyway? Many preachers talk about sin and preach hell-fire and damnation sermons against sin, but never get around to explaining just what sin really is. Some churches think that it is playing cards, or dancing, or drinking alcoholic beverages, or whatever they dream up as being wrongful.

Let’s let the Scriptures define sin to us so that we can know unequivocally just what sin really is. The Apostle John writes, "Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law," 1 Jn. 3:4. When the Scriptures speak of the "law" they are primarily speaking of the "Torah" which is the first five books of the Bible, especially and specifically dealing with the "ten commandments."

Paul writes, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of Elohim," Ro. 3:23. Since repentance means to feel sorry for something that we have done or failed to do, here is what we have done; we have sinned, transgressed the law, the Torah, specifically and especially the ten commandments. What we have failed to do is to live up to, or according to the glory of Elohim/YAHWEH. We must repent of our sins, the things that we have done which go against the commands of YAHWEH. We must repent of our failure to live up to the glory of YAHWEH.

The primary Hebrew word for sin is "chata" which is defined in Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance Hebrew Dictionary as, a prim. root; prop. to miss; hence (fig. and gen.) to sin; by infer. to forfeit, lack, (causat.) lead astray, condemn.

Sin causes us to "miss" something. It also causes a "forfeiture." We have already seen that it causes us to fall short or "miss" the glory of YAHWEH. What does it cause us to forfeit? "The wages of sin is death...," Ro. 6:23 (first part). Sin causes us to forfeit our life.

Now, true enough, one can continue reading Ro. 6:23 which says, "...but the gift of YAHWEH is eternal life through YAHshua the Messiah our Sovereign." Yes, with the proper faith in YAHshua the Messiah, we have the grace of YAHWEH extended to us, but how are we expected to live after having received the grace of forgiveness? Paul also answers this by writing, "Do we then make void the law through faith? YAHWEH forbid: yea, we establish the law," Ro. 3:31.

The Greek word that has been translated as "establish" is "histemi" which means "to stand." However, it is variously translated in the English language as, abide, appoint, bring, continue, covenant, establish, hold up, lay, present, set (up), stanch, stand (by, forth, still, up). Thus, we stand in the law, or we covenant the law, or we present the law, or we stand by, the law, etc., etc.

The extension of grace or forgiveness to a person has never, in the Old Testament or in the New Testament, been presented as a license for a person to live according to what is right in his own eyes, nor has it provided an open door to continue in sin. Let us look at it in this wise, if a governor extends a pardon to a man who is in prison for having committed some crime, does the governor extend that pardon because he thinks that the man will go out and commit the same crime again? The answer, of course, is no! The governor extends the pardon to the criminal because he believes that the man has been rehabilitated and will re-enter society as a model citizen. If the man commits the same crime, he will surely end up back in prison (if caught) with a harsher sentence than before.

The same condition exists between us and YAHWEH. If He has extended grace (free unmerited pardon) to us because we have repented of our sins upon being called and chosen, He expects us to live according to His righteous commands upholding such in our lives.

Sin is also defined as "to lead astray." Sin is the principle agent in idolatry because a person locked up in idolatrous practices is a person who has been lead astray. It was the sin of idolatry that caused Israel to be overthrown, destroyed and cast out of the land of promise.

The prophet Ezekiel writes, "Then came certain of the elders of Israel unto me, and sat before me. And the word of YAHWEH came unto me, saying, ‘Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their heart, and put the stumblingblock of their iniquity before their face: should I be enquired of at all by them? Therefore speak unto them, and say unto them, ‘Thus saith the Sovereign YAHWEH; ‘Every man of the house of Israel that setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumbling block of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to the prophet; I YAHWEH will answer him that cometh according to the multitude of his idols; that I may take the house of Israel in their own heart, because they are all estranged from Me through their idols.’’ Therefore say unto the house of Israel, ‘Thus saith the Sovereign YAHWEH; ‘Repent, and turn yourselves from your idols; and turn away your faces from all your abominations. For every one of the house of Israel, or of the stranger that sojourneth in Israel, which separateth himself from Me, and setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumbling block of his iniquity before his face, and cometh to a prophet to enquire of him concerning Me; I YAHWEH will answer him by Myself: and I will set My face against that man, and will make him a sign and a proverb, and I will cut him off from the midst of My People; and ye shall know that I am YAHWEH’," Ezek. 14:1-8.

Sin leads to idolatry. Sin and idolatry separate between a person and the great Creator YAHWEH. YAHWEH told the prophet Isaiah, "Behold, YAHWEH'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear: but your iniquities have separated between you and your Elohim, and your sins have hid His face from you, that He will not hear," Isa. 59:1-2.

Again, YAHWEH inspired Ezekiel to write, "The word of YAHWEH came unto me again, saying, What mean ye, that ye use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying, ‘The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge?’ As I live, saith the Sovereign YAHWEH, ye shall not have occasion any more to use this proverb in Israel. Behold, all souls are Mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is Mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die. But if a man be just, and do that which is lawful and right, And hath not eaten upon the mountains, neither hath lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, neither hath defiled his neighbour's wife, neither hath come near to a menstruous woman, And hath not oppressed any, but hath restored to the debtor his pledge, hath spoiled none by violence, hath given his bread to the hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment; He that hath not given forth upon usury, neither hath taken any increase, that hath withdrawn his hand from iniquity, hath executed true judgment between man and man, hath walked in My statutes, and hath kept My judgments, to deal truly; he is just, he shall surely live, saith the Sovereign YAHWEH. If he beget a son that is a robber, a shedder of blood, and that doeth the like to any one of these things, and that doeth not any of those duties, but even hath eaten upon the mountains, and defiled his neighbour's wife, hath oppressed the poor and needy, hath spoiled by violence, hath not restored the pledge, and hath lifted up his eyes to the idols, hath committed abomination, hath given forth upon usury, and hath taken increase: shall he then live? He shall not live: he hath done all these abominations; he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him. Now, lo, if he beget a son, that seeth all his father's sins which he hath done, and considereth, and doeth not such like, that hath not eaten upon the mountains, neither hath lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, hath not defiled his neighbour's wife, neither hath oppressed any, hath not withholden the pledge, neither hath spoiled by violence, but hath given his bread to the hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment, that hath taken off his hand from the poor, that hath not received usury nor increase, hath executed My judgments, hath walked in My statutes; he shall not die for the iniquity of his father, he shall surely live. As for his father, because he cruelly oppressed, spoiled his brother by violence, and did that which is not good among his people, lo, even he shall die in his iniquity. Yet say ye, ‘Why doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father?’ When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live. The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all My statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Sovereign YAHWEH: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die. Yet ye say, ‘The way of YAHWEH is not equal.’ Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not My way equal? Are not your ways unequal? When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die. 27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive. Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die. Yet saith the house of Israel, The way of YAHWEH is not equal. O house of Israel, are not My ways equal? Are not your ways unequal? Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Sovereign YAHWEH. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Sovereign YAHWEH: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye," Ez. 18 all.

YAHWEH wants His people to live. Sin, transgressions, iniquity and idolatry lead to division, death and destruction. YAHWEH'S message to the world of Noah’s day was to repent, but the people would not hear and were destroyed. YAHWEH sent Moses to Pharaoh admonishing him to repent and let His people go. Pharaoh refused to listen and Egypt was destroyed. YAHWEH warned Israel to repent, but Israel refused to heed the warnings and had to be destroyed. We see the example of Israel’s refusal to repent both in the days of the prophets and in the days of John the Baptist, YAHshua and the apostles. The northern kingdom of Israel went into captivity by the Assyrians. The southern kingdom of Judah went into captivity by the Babylonians. The revitalized state of Judah went into captivity by the Romans being destroyed in 69-70 C.E. Today’s message to the New Testament believer has not changed. We are commanded to repent and turn away from sin (the transgression of the law), iniquity (lawlessness) and idolatry.

Believe it or not, the world of today’s nominal New Testament believer is absolutely laced with the effects of idolatry. This was warned to take place long ago, specifically and especially by Daniel the prophet. But YAHshua also warned that such would take place after His death and resurrection. The apostles also warned time and time again that such not only would take place, but that it was already taking place in their day. It is the responsibility of the New Testament believer to root out all paganism and idolatry from the pure faith of the Messiah. That which is contrary to the Scriptures must be studied out, rooted out, turned from and repented of. This is step #2 in the believer’s journey to the Kingdom.

The third step in the believer’s journey to the Kingdom is that of baptism. Baptism is a very important and vital step as we hope to show.

John the Baptist was the first mentioned concerning the New Testament baptism, "Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Cæsar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judæa, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituræa and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of YAHWEH came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins...," Lk. 3:1-3.

YAHshua also set the example (1 Pet. 2:21) of baptism for He came unto John in order to be baptized of him, "Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that YAHshua also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon Him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, ‘Thou art My beloved Son; in Thee I am well pleased," Lk. 3:21-22.

During His ministry, YAHshua and His disciples baptized more people than John the Baptist did, "When therefore the Master knew how the Pharisees had heard that YAHshua made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though YAHshua Himself baptized not, but His disciples,) He left Judæa, and departed again into Galilee," Jn. 4:1-3.

On the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples Peter was stirred to speak out boldly and powerfully concerning YAHshua and the evil treatment that He had received at the hands of the people (Acts 2:1-36). When the people listened to Peter’s words they were pricked in their heart (v. 37) and asked what they could do. Peter’s response was, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of YAHshua the Messiah for the remission of sins...Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls," vv. 38, 41.

At first, the New Testament Assembly believed that the way to salvation was only made available to the Jews. But a few years after the pouring out of the Holy Spirit upon YAHshua's disciples and those to whom their word went, YAHWEH performed another marvelous thing.

Peter was shown a vision just before three men, sent by Cornelius the centurion, arrived (Acts 10:1-22). Peter was told to receive them (v. 20) so he allowed them to enter his house where he lodged them that night (v. 23).

The next day he and certain brethren travelled with them to Cæsaræ (vv. 23-24). After Cornelius received them, Peter began to speak to them concerning YAHshua when the Holy Spirit fell upon them as it did with Peter and the other disciples on the day of Pentecost (vv. 34-46).

Once a person receives the Holy Spirit, does he still need to be baptized? The answer is contained in the following verses, "Then answered Peter, ‘Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Spirit as well as we?’ And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Master," Acts 10:46-48.

The question is, Why did YAHWEH perform this in the reverse manner concerning this incident? The answer is that until that convincing incident, the New Testament Assembly did not understand that the way to salvation was also to be made available to the Gentiles.

This is made clear by the episode which followed when Peter returned to Jerusalem. Those of the circumcision contended with him accusing him, "Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised and did eat with them," Acts 11:1-3.

Peter then recounted the circumstances that had taken place (vv. 4-14), finally saying, "And as I began to speak the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of the Master, how that He said, ‘John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ Forasmuch then as YAHWEH gave them the like gift as He did unto us, who believed on the Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah; what was I, that I could withstand YAHWEH?’ When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified YAHWEH, saying, ‘Then hath YAHWEH also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life’," Acts 11:15-18.

It took this special incidence to bring to the New Testament Assembly’s awareness that the way to salvation through repentance and baptism was also made available to the Gentiles.

YAHshua told Nicodemus that one must be conceived from above by water and the Spirit (Jn. 3:5). Thus, the general procedure with which a person is dealt is #1 to be called and chosen, #2 repentance of sins and #3 baptism.

There are so many, many reasons for baptism, which if we were to focus on them all, we would never finish writing this booklet. Thus, we would like to focus on 14 major reasons for baptism as delineated in the Scriptures.

#1 - Baptism is for the remission of sins as Peter said, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of YAHshua the Messiah for the remission of sins," Acts 2:38.

When Saul (Paul) was first called, YAHshua sent Ananias to him who encouraged him, "And now why tarriest thou? Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of Him," Acts. 22:16.

The baptism of water is a type of washing one clean from all pollutions in order to be made clean.

#2 - Baptism symbolizes putting the old man to death and in doing so, being raised up a new person in the Messiah; a type of death, burial and resurrection, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? YAHWEH forbid. How shall we that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into YAHshua the Messiah were baptized into His death? Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as the Messiah was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is impaled with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin," Ro. 6:1-6.

#3 - Baptism is for the purpose of circumcision of the heart, "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after the Messiah: for in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the headship bodily. And ye are complete in Him, Which is the head of all principality and power: in Whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of the Messiah: buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of YAHWEH Who hath raised Him from the dead," Col. 2:8-12.

Paul adds to this, "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of YAHWEH," Ro. 2:28-29.

The true baptism cuts away the unclean works of the flesh, a thing that we are not able to do of ourselves, but YAHWEH is able, through YAHshua's sacrifice and by the power of the spirit. The new believer then rejoices at YAHWEH'S words, His works and His ways from the inward man.

#4 - Baptism is for the purpose of putting on, clothing oneself with the Messiah, "For as many of you as have been baptized into the Messiah have put on the Messiah," Gal. 3:27.

"But put ye on the Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof," Ro. 13:14.

We must put on, be clothed with the Messiah, the Anointed One. In this manner we can please our heavenly Father YAHWEH in the things that we do. As He looks upon us, He sees His Anointed Son, His Beloved Son in Whom He is well pleased.

#5 - Baptism is for the purpose of putting on the armor of light, "The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light," Ro. 13:12.

"Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Sovereign, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armour of Elohim, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of Elohim, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the evangel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of YAHWEH: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints...," Eph. 6:10-18.

This armor is very important, as stated, to keep one from the subtitles and devices of Satan the devil.

#6 - Baptism is for the purpose of being conceived again from above in order to obtain a better birth, a birth that endures for all eternity, "YAHshua answered and said unto him, ‘Verily, Verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again (conceived from above), he cannot see the Kingdom of Elohim’...YAHshua answered, ‘Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born (conceived) of water and of the spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of Elohim. That which is born (conceived) of flesh is flesh; and that which is born (conceived) of the Spirit is spirit," Jn. 3:3, 5-6.

"Blessed be the Elohim and Father of our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, Which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten (conceived) us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of YAHshua the Messiah from the dead...," 1 Pet. 1:3.

"Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn (newly conceived or newly generated) babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if so be ye have tasted that YAHWEH is gracious," 1 Pet. 2:1-3.

#7 - Baptism is for the purpose of receiving grace, "And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But YAHWEH, Who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with the Messiah, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in the Messiah YAHshua: that in the ages to come He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through the Messiah YAHshua. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of YAHWEH: not of works, lest any man should boast," Eph. 2:1-7.

"There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Sovereign, one faith, one baptism, one Elohim and Father of all, Who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of the Messiah," Eph. 4:4-7.

#8 - Baptism is for Sanctification and Justification, "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of Elohim? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the Kingdom of Elohim. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Sovereign YAHshua and by the Spirit of our Elohim," 1 Cor. 6:9-11.

#9 - Baptism is for the purpose of finding peace, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with YAHWEH through our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah: by Whom also we have access by faith unto this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of Elohim, Ro. 5:1-2.

"But now in the Messiah YAHshua ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of the Messiah, for He is our peace Who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace...," Eph. 2:13-15.

#10 - Baptism is for reconciliation and atonement, "Therefore if any man be in the Messiah, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of YAHWEH, Who hath reconciled us to Himself by YAHshua the Messiah, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; to wit, that YAHWEH was in the Messiah, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for the Messiah, as though YAHWEH did beseech you by us: we pray you in the Messiah's stead, be you reconciled to YAHWEH," 2 Cor. 5:17-20.

"And that He might reconcile both unto YAHWEH in one body by the tree, having slain the enmity thereby: and came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. For through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of YAHWEH; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, YAHshua the Messiah Himself being the Chief Corner Stone; In Whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy Temple in the Sovereign; In Whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of YAHWEH through the Spirit," Eph. 2:16-22.

"For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to YAHWEH by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only so, but we also joy in YAHWEH through our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, by Whom we have now received the atonement," Ro. 5:10-11.

#11 - Baptism is for the purpose of restoration to spiritual virginity, "Would to YAHWEH ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. For I am jealous over you with pious jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to the Messiah," 2 Cor. 11:1-2.

"These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto YAHWEH and unto the Lamb," Rev. 14:4.

#12 - Baptism is for the purpose of espousing (engagement) one to the Messiah (see previous verse 2 Cor. 11:1-2).

YAHshua is the Bridegroom, "And John also was baptizing in Ænon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized, for John was not yet cast into prison. Then there arose a question between some of John’s disciples and the Jews about purifying. And they came unto John, and said unto him ‘Rabbi, He That was with thee beyond Jordan, to Whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to Him.’ John answered and said, ‘A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Messiah, but that I am sent before Him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease’," Jn. 3:23-30.

"And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast: and they come and say unto Him, ‘Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but Thy disciples fast not?’ And YAHshua said unto them, ‘Can the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days’," Mk. 2:18-20.

YAHshua is the bridegroom. Those who are called and chosen, who repent and are baptized are cleansed and restored to virginity. They are then able to enter into a marriage contract (covenant) with the Messiah which will be consummated at the end of the age (Rev. 19).

#13 - Baptism is for the purpose of entering into YAHWEH'S New Covenant through YAHshua, "Behold, the days come, saith YAHWEH, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah: not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in My covenant, and I regarded them not, saith YAHWEH. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith YAHWEH; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them an Elohim, and they shall be to Me a People: and they shall not teach every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know YAHWEH: for all shall know Me, from the least to the greatest’," Heb. 8:8-11. (See also Jer. 31:31-34)

#14 - Baptism is for the purpose of receiving the law of faith, "Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in the Messiah YAHshua: Whom YAHWEH hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of YAHWEH; to declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: the He might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in YAHshua. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? Nay; but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. Is He the Elohim of the Jews only? Is He not also of the Gentiles? Yea, of the Gentiles also: seeing it is one Elohim, Which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith, do we then make void the law through faith? YAHWEH forbid: yea, we establish the law," Ro. 3:24-31.

Paul’s writings are important to understand. He never wrote to do away with the law, but to reveal that we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of YAHWEH, thus there is no amount of law keeping that will earn grace, mercy, salvation, etc. That is a free gift through YAHshua. However, once we receive that grace we uphold the law. (Order our free treatise entitled Is The Law Done Away?)

Our walk must be established through the law of faith which YAHWEH begins to extend to us once we receive the calling and believe. Then we proceed in faith, believing in His word and responding to that calling.

#15 - Baptism is for the purpose of inheriting YAHWEH'S Kingdom and eternal life, "Hearken, my beloved brethren, hath not YAHWEH chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the Kingdom which He hath promised to them that love Him?" Jas. 2:5.

"Blessed be the Elohim and Father of our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, Which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of YAHshua the Messiah from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of YAHWEH through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time," 1 Pet. 1:4-5.

A sixteenth reason for baptism is also the fourth step toward the Kingdom and that is for the purpose of receiving and being sealed with the Holy Spirit. On the day of Pentecost when the New Testament assembly had the Holy Spirit poured out upon them in a very powerful manner, the people, upon being pricked in their hearts, asked the apostles what they could do (Acts 2:37). Peter responded, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of YAHshua the Messiah for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the holy Spirit," Acts 2:38.

Once again there is a certain manner in which things should be done. Normally, a person is called, repents and is baptized. But the New Testament also reveals that the elders of the assembly should lay hands on the head of the baptizee afterward and pray for the giving of the Holy Spirit. This is revealed in Acts 8.

A deacon named Philip went to Samaria and preached the Messiah to the people there (v. 5). The people listened and saw the miracles that he performed. They believed and were baptized (vv.6-12). When the apostles at Jerusalem heard that the people of Samaria received the word, "...they sent unto them Peter and John: who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Sovereign YAHshua.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit," vv. 14-17.

The apostle Paul encouraged Timothy, "Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of YAHWEH, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands," 1 Tim. 1:6.

The Holy Spirit is not only the gift of grace, but it is also a seal, "Paul, an apostle of YAHshua the Messiah by the will of YAHWEH, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in the Messiah YAHshua: Grace be to you and peace, from YAHWEH our Father, and from the Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah. Blessed be the Elohim and Father of our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, Who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in the Messiah;...that in the dispensation of the fulness of times He might gather together in one all things in the Messiah, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: in Whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him Who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will: that we should be to the praise of His glory, who first trusted in the Messiah, in Whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation: in Whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of His glory," Eph. 1:1-3, 10-14.

Paul also writes, "Now He Which stablisheth us with you in the Messiah, and hath anointed us, is YAHWEH Who hath also sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts," 1 Cor. 1:21-22.

Receiving the Holy Spirit is most important for when the Spirit is received it seals us with the Father's name. It spiritually conceives us from above so that we can experience the second birth. It is a Comforter in good times and in bad. It will lead us into the truth. It is the Spirit of grace etc., etc. (Order our free treatise entitled YAHWEH'S Holy Spirit by Thomas Hobbs)

Being sealed by the Holy Spirit is not the end of the conversion process. It is actually a generating, a new beginning. At that time we become conceived from above and start the process of forming a completely new individual within us just as a newly conceived babe begins to form in the womb of its mother. From that point we must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Sovereign and Savior YAHshua the Messiah, "But grow in the grace, and in the knowledge of our Sovereign and Saviour YAHshua the Messiah," 2 Pet. 3:18.

Once again, hearkening back to the writings of the apostle Peter, we read, "Blessed be the Elohim and Father of our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah, Which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten (conceived) us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of YAHshua the Messiah from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of YAHWEH through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time," 1 Pet. 1:3-6.

Paul also admonishes, "And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of the Messiah: till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of Elohim, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of the Messiah: that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, Which is the Head, even the Messiah: from Whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love," Eph. 4:11-16.

A newly conceived child in the womb of its mother must form and grow in her womb until the day of its birth. It is not only hidden from the eyes of its parents, but it also is not able to see the outside world, the inheritance into which it is to be born. The spiritual child is in much the same condition. Though we can have daily contact with our Heavenly Father through prayer, study and activity, there is no visual contact, at least on our part. Neither are we able to see the new world into which we are to be born. We only know that there is a promise of a new world to come which is to be far, far better than the one in which we are presently dwelling. We currently live a temporary existence which is filled with all kinds of dangers that can cause us to live a miserable life of pain, grief, suffering, poverty, etc. Of course, some experience more pain and suffering than others, but the life to come is promised to be a release from all of the evils and grief, the unsureties and insecurities suffered in our present existence.

Peter even continues to write about the trials that can come upon the believers, "Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations, that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of YAHshua the Messiah," 1 Pet. 1:6-7.

These trials may cause troubles in the flesh, but the spiritual child must experience such in order to grow in faith and to mature spiritually. We must grow in order to be conformed with the Messiah Himself, "My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until the Messiah be formed in you," Gal. 4:19.

If any child, in the womb or otherwise, is going to grow and mature then they must have food and drink. Peter writes, "Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn (newly conceived) babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if so be ye have tasted that YAHWEH is gracious," 2 Pet. 2:1-2.

YAHWEH'S word, both Old and New Testaments are the food of YAHWEH'S children who are conceived from above. Both Old and New Testaments are proven to be speaking specifically of YAHshua the Messiah as YAHshua, Himself, pointed out to the people of His day, "I am come in My Father's name, and ye receive Me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from YAHWEH only? Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed Me: for he wrote of Me. But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe My words?" Jn. 5:39.

The writings of Moses were writings about YAHshua the Messiah. The people of YAHshua's day were so taken up with their own fulfillment of those Scriptures, that they had become self-righteous and hypocritical. They became blinded to the true One of Whom those Scriptures were speaking.

YAHshua also told His disciples, "These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the Law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalm, concerning Me.’ Then opened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, ‘Thus it is written, and thus it behooved the Messiah 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 at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things," Lk. 24:44-48.

YAHshua is YAHWEH'S living word, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with Elohim, and the Word was Elohim. The same was in the beginning with Elohim. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men...And the Word was made (became) flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth," Jn. 1:1-3, 14.

YAHshua revealed, "Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of Man shall give unto you: for Him hath YAHWEH the Father sealed.’ Then said they unto Him, ‘What shall we do, that we might work the works of YAHWEH?’ YAHshua answered and said unto them, ‘This is the work of YAHWEH, that ye believe on Him Whom He hath sent.’ They said therefore unto Him, ‘What sign shewest Thou then, that we may see, and believe Thee? What dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ Then YAHshua said unto them, ‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of YAHWEH is He which cometh down from heaven and giveth life unto the world.’....‘I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.’....‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of Man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever," Jn. 6:27-33, 48-51, 53-57.

YAHshua is the true bread from heaven. He is the food of the true believer. We must eat of Him and drink of Him by studying the word of YAHWEH. YAHWEH'S word is primarily written of Him. Thus, as we study YAHWEH'S word, we learn how His word applies to YAHshua and then to us. YAHshua then lives in us more powerfully day by day if we eat of Him as a steady diet. Thus, Paul wrote, "Let the word of the Messiah dwell in you richly in all wisdom: teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to YAHWEH. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Sovereign YAHshua, giving thanks to Elohim and the Father by Him," Col. 3:16-17.

Once a child is conceived in the womb, it is up to the father and mother to make sure that the mother is well taken care of in order to have a healthy child born to them. Most children who are conceived will come to the birth. But problems still can arise which can cause the conception to be aborted. There may be genetic differences between husband and wife which are passed on to the embryo causing a miscarriage or an aborted fetus. There are many other problems which can arise because of diet, substance abuse and, sadly, many pregnancies are purposely terminated.

Once we are spiritually conceived YAHWEH makes sure that we have the tools available to us to in order to make it to the end. But we also have a part to play in the determination as to whether we will be born into YAHWEH'S Kingdom or not. There are so many conditions in this world itself which can cause a spiritual abortion.

YAHshua warned His own disciples, "Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for My name’s sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved," Mat. 24:9-13.

In another place He warned, "Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; and ye shall be brought before governors and kings for My sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of Your Father Which speaketh in you. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved," Mat. 10:16-22.

We must be determined against all the odds that what we want is not the things of this world and this life, but the things of the world to come. A true believer will be hated, despised, suspicioned and treated with disdain in this life and world. Many suffer the loss of family and friends who are very dear and close to them. Many in times past have suffered great persecution to the point of loss of freedom, lands, possessions, torture and death for this most precious way and Kingdom. In this case we must remember that the Kingdom is the pearl of great price which should mean more to us than anything else in this world, even our own life.

Under the heading of endurance comes the necessity that a true believer must overcome or conquer. YAHshua's message to each of the seven assemblies in Rev. 2 and 3 encourages overcoming, "He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Assemblies; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the Tree of Life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of Elohim...He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Assemblies; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death...He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Assemblies. To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it...And he that overcometh, and keepeth My works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations; and he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of My Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him what the Spirit saith unto the Assemblies...He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Assemblies...Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the Temple of My Elohim, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of My Elohim, and the name of the city of My Elohim, which is New Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from My Elohim: and I will write upon him My new name. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Assemblies...To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Assemblies," Rev. 2:7, 11, 17, 26-29; 3: 5, 12, 21-22.

The word "overcometh" is translated from the Greek word "nikao" which also means to subdue, to conquer, to prevail, to get the victory.

The believer has several things that he must overcome or conquer. The first, of course, is the battle that he will have against his own flesh. The Apostle Paul writes, "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; ‘Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’ If ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit lusteth against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would," Gal. 5:13-17.

The next thing that he must overcome is the world, "Whosoever believeth that YAHshua is the Messiah is born (conceived) of Elohim: and every one that loveth Him That begat (conceived) loveth him also that is begotten of Him. By this we know that we love the children of Elohim, when we love Elohim, and keep His commandments. For this is the love of Elohim, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born (conceived) of Elohim overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that YAHshua is the Son of Elohim? This is He That came by water and blood, even YAHshua the Messiah; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit That beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth. For there are three that bear record, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. If we receive the witness of men, the witness of Elohim is greater: for this is the witness of Elohim which He hath testified of His Son. He that believeth on the Son of Elohim hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not Elohim hath made Him a liar; because he believeth not the record that Elohim gave of His Son. And this is the record, that Elohim hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of Elohim hath not life, 1 Jn. 5:1-13.

Finally, the most important thing to overcome is Satan and the wicked spirits which follow him, "Finally, my brethren, be strong in YAHWEH, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armour of Elohim, that ye might be able to stand against the wiles of the devil (order our free article entitled "The Devices of Satan"). For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of Elohim, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the evangel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of Elohim: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints, and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the evangel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds; that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak," Eph. 6:10-20.

Satan is the g-d of this world, "Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of YAHWEH deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’ conscience in the sight of YAHWEH. But if our evangel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious evangel of the Messiah, Who is the image of Elohim; should shine unto them," 2 Cor. 4:1-4.

Satan is the g-d of this world. He is full of subtlety and deceit. He is able to blind the present evil world into doing his will. The true believer must overcome this craftiness, subtlety and deceit through the Spirit of truth as it leads him to see the Anointed One, YAHshua the Messiah, "For we preach not ourselves, but the Messiah (the Anointed) YAHshua the Sovereign; and ourselves your servants for YAHshua's sake," 2 Cor. 4:5.

Thus the trek of the true believer is filled with many dangers within and without, but the faith of the Messiah will deliver him from them all if he sets his heart to grow, eat the right food (YAHshua, YAHWEH'S word), endure and overcome.

The seventh step, resurrection, is the last and final step in the true believer’s trek toward YAHWEH'S Kingdom and eternal life. If one is called, then he must respond. When he responds to YAHWEH'S calling then he is chosen. He is brought to repentance, baptism and the receiving of the Holy Spirit (spiritual conception). Then he must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah much as a child grows in the womb of its mother. The spiritually conceived child must endure and overcome to the end of his life or the day of resurrection. It is a very close parallel to the seven days of creation. YAHWEH fashioned, molded and created for six days, but in the seventh, He rested from all His labors. The seventh step, resurrection, is the final process, the birth into the Kingdom and eternal life. Purity, holiness, life, peace and rest have finally come.

YAHshua said, "All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me; and him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out. For I came down from heaven, not to do Mine Own will, but the will of Him That sent Me. And this is the Father's will Which hath sent Me, that of all which He hath given me I should lose nothing but should raise it up again at the last day...No man can come to Me, except the Father Which hath sent Me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day...Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day," Jn. 6:47-40, 44, 54.

Paul writes, "Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but YAHWEH shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Sovereign; and the Sovereign for the body. And YAHWEH hath both raised up the Sovereign and will also raise up us by His own power," 1 Cor. 6:13-14.

When does this event occur. So many in this world, as previously point out, think they have been born again. They also have been mislead concerning death. Many think that, upon death, the body dies, but they live on in the spirit. The evil go to a burning hell and the good go to heaven. But, as also pointed out, death is cessation of life. Once dead, the dead know not anything. One must be resurrected from the dead, from the grave. This is the second birth in its total and complete fulfillment.

That the resurrection is the true birth is seen concerning what Paul wrote concerning YAHshua, "And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. And He is the Head of the body, the Assembly: Who is the Beginning, the Firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the pre-eminence," Col. 1:17-18.

YAHshua became the Firstborn by being resurrected from the dead. The resurrection is the true birth. This will occur at the last day.

Paul once again writes, "But I would not have you to be ignorant brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that YAHshua died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in YAHshua will YAHWEH bring with Him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Sovereign, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Sovereign, shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Sovereign Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of Elohim: and the dead in the Messiah shall rise first: then we which are alive, and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Sovereign in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Sovereign. Wherefore comfort one another with these words," 1 Thes. 4:13-18.

Finally Paul adds, "Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of Elohim; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I shew you a mystery; we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, ‘Death is swallowed up in victory.’ The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to YAHWEH, Which giveth us the victory through our Sovereign YAHshua the Messiah. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always, always abounding in the work of the Sovereign, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Sovereign," 1 Cor. 15:50-58.

Yes, brethren, remain steadfast in the work of the Sovereign YAHshua and His glorious Father YAHWEH. Many have fallen by the way. Many have become a fatality and a spiritual abortion. It can happen to each one of us if we are not careful. Take the most important and vital steps of your life. Listen to the calling, become a chosen one (step 1), repent (step 2), be baptized (step 3) in the only name under heaven whereby we must be saved, receive the Holy Spirit (step 4), grow in the grace and knowledge of YAHshua the Messiah (step 5), endure to the end, overcoming all adversity (step 6). Feed upon YAHWEH'S word. Obey YAHWEH'S word. Seek the paths of righteousness. Allow YAHWEH'S Spirit to lead you into all truth concerning YAHshua and how the Scriptures witness of Him. Follow in His steps and come to the resurrection (step 7), the glorious birth, a second birth of power and strength that will never cease nor fail. May YAHWEH bless you to see the things He has in store for you and may you forever rejoice in them. HalleluYAH!!!!