The Holy Spirit Calls Us to Faith

A Word of Truth #011  

God says in the Bible, “No one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 12:3). Without the Holy Spirit no one could believe God’s word or trust in Jesus as Savior. The Bible describes all people as “dead in sin” (Ephesians 2:1) and says that God’s truths are foolishness to man by nature (1 Corinthians 2:14). Consequently, we cannot accept Christ, as some suggest we must, nor can we bring ourselves to Christ.

Rather, the Holy Spirit comes to us in our sin and calls us to faith in Jesus as Savior through the gospel of forgiveness. St. Paul writes, “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17). The Holy Spirit uses God’s word of truth to accomplish what we cannot. He changes our old sinful nature, which rejects Jesus, into a new creation, which by grace believes in Jesus and is saved.

Baptism

A Word of Truth #012 2002 revision of 1994 material 

Jesus gave the command to “…make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19).

Baptism in the name of the Triune God is more than a ceremonial washing with water. Baptism is a special gift from God through which He gives the forgiveness of sins to those who are baptized. God says in His Word, “Arise and be baptized and wash away your sins” (Acts 22:16).

Baptism is intended for all people because everyone needs the forgiveness of sins which God gives through baptism. Even the youngest of children needs forgiveness, and children too can believe in Jesus their Savior. Peter told the people on Pentecost, “…be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…the promise is to you and to your children…” (Acts 2:38-39). For young and old alike, Baptism is one of God’s most precious gifts.