From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand . . . Verily I say unto you, that there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power . . . And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it . . . My kingdom is not of this world . . .
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost . . . Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls . . . Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved . . . For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free . . .
And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem . . . Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God . . . And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write . . . Fear none of these things which thou shalt suffer: behold the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life . . .
Christ is the head of the church: and he is the savior of the body. Therefore, as the church is subject unto Christ Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish . . . Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father.
– Compiled by Steve Housley
Steve Housley is a former Pulpit Minister for Eastern Meadows Church of Christ.
