Mark 11:27 (KJV) And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders,

Mark 11:28 (KJV) And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?

Mark 11:29 (KJV) And Jesus answered and said unto them, I will also ask of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things.

Mark 11:30 (KJV) The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me.

Mark 11:31 (KJV) And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did ye not believe him?

Mark 11:32 (KJV) But if we shall say, Of men; they feared the people: for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed.

Mark 11:33 (KJV) And they answered and said unto Jesus, We cannot tell. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.

By What Power, Or By What Name, Have Ye Done This?

Acts 4:1 (KJV) And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them,

Acts 4:2 (KJV) Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.

Acts 4:3 (KJV) And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide.

Acts 4:4 (KJV) Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.

Acts 4:5 (KJV) And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,

Acts 4:6 (KJV) And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.

Acts 4:7 (KJV) And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?

Acts 4:8 (KJV) Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

Acts 4:9 (KJV) If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

Acts 4:10 (KJV) Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

Acts 4:11 (KJV) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

Acts 4:12 (KJV) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Acts 4:13 (KJV) Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

Acts 4:14 (KJV) And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

Old Testament Authority

The Office OF The Priest

1. GOD Authorized Priestly Office

God Authorized And Commanded

Exodus 28:1 (KJV) And take thou unto thee Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him, from among the children of Israel, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office, even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, Aaron's sons.

Exodus 28:2 (KJV) And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty.

Exodus 28:3 (KJV) And thou shalt speak unto all that are wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, that they may make Aaron's garments to consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.

Exodus 28:4 (KJV) And these are the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an ephod, and a robe, and a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.

A Consecrated Office

Exodus 28:40 (KJV) And for Aaron's sons thou shalt make coats, and thou shalt make for them girdles, and bonnets shalt thou make for them, for glory and for beauty.

Exodus 28:41 (KJV) And thou shalt put them upon Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him; and shalt anoint them, and consecrate them, and sanctify them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office.

Exodus 28:42 (KJV) And thou shalt make them linen breeches to cover their nakedness; from the loins even unto the thighs they shall reach:

Not Self Given - Everlasting!!!

Exodus 40:12 (KJV) And thou shalt bring Aaron and his sons unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, and wash them with water.

Exodus 40:13 (KJV) And thou shalt put upon Aaron the holy garments, and anoint him, and sanctify him; that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.

Exodus 40:14 (KJV) And thou shalt bring his sons, and clothe them with coats:

Exodus 40:15 (KJV) And THOU SHALT ANOINT THEM, as thou didst anoint their father, THAT THEY MAY MINISTER UNTO ME IN THE PRIEST'S OFFICE: for their anointing shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their generations.

From A Proper Authority

Leviticus 8:10 (KJV) And Moses took the anointing oil, and anointed the tabernacle and all that was therein, and sanctified them.

Leviticus 8:11 (KJV) And he sprinkled thereof upon the altar seven times, and anointed the altar and all his vessels, both the laver and his foot, to sanctify them.

Leviticus 8:12 (KJV) And he poured of the anointing oil upon Aaron's head, and anointed him, to sanctify him.

A Passed On Office

Leviticus 16:32 (KJV) And the priest, WHOM HE SHALL ANOINT, AND WHOM HE SHALL CONSECRATE to minister in the priest's office in his father's stead, shall make the atonement, and shall put on the linen clothes, even the holy garments:

Authorized Teachings Only

Numbers 3:1 (KJV) These also are the generations of Aaron and Moses in the day that the LORD spake with Moses in mount Sinai.

Numbers 3:2 (KJV) And these are the names of the sons of Aaron; Nadab the firstborn, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.

Numbers 3:3 (KJV) These are the names of the sons of Aaron, the priests which were anointed, whom he consecrated to minister in the priest's office.

Numbers 3:4 (KJV) And Nadab and Abihu died before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD, in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the priest's office in the sight of Aaron their father.

Office Passed On

Deuteronomy 10:6 (KJV) And the children of Israel took their journey from Beeroth of the children of Jaakan to Mosera: there Aaron died, and there he was buried; and Eleazar his son ministered in the priest's office in his stead.

An Authorized Authority May Give Authority

1 Chronicles 9:22 (KJV) All these which were chosen to be porters in the gates were two hundred and twelve. These were reckoned by their genealogy in their villages, whom David and SAMUEL THE SEER DID ORDAIN in their set office.

1 Chronicles 9:23 (KJV) So they and their children had the oversight of the gates of the house of the LORD, namely, the house of the tabernacle, by wards.

The Office Is Received, NOT Taken

Hebrews 7:5 (KJV) And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who RECEIVE the office of the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of Abraham:

2. SELF Authorized Priestly Office (FORBIDDEN)

Man-Made Religion:

May Have An Apparent Legitimate Root

Numbers 16:1 (KJV) Now Korah, the son of Izhar, the son of Kohath, the son of Levi, and Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab, and On, the son of Peleth, sons of Reuben, took men:

Revolts Against God’s Authorized Priests

Numbers 16:2 (KJV) And they rose up before Moses, with certain of the children of Israel, two hundred and fifty princes of the assembly, famous in the congregation, men of renown:

Numbers 16:3 (KJV) And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, Ye take too much upon you, seeing all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?

Numbers 16:4 (KJV) And when Moses heard it, he fell upon his face:

Numbers 16:5 (KJV) And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even to morrow the LORD will shew who are his, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near unto him: even him whom he hath chosen will he cause to come near unto him.

Numbers 16:6 (KJV) This do; Take you censers, Korah, and all his company;

Numbers 16:7 (KJV) And put fire therein, and put incense in them before the LORD to morrow: and it shall be that the man whom the LORD doth choose, he shall be holy: ye take too much upon you, ye sons of Levi.

Has Un-Authorized Priests

Numbers 16:8 (KJV) And Moses said unto Korah, Hear, I pray you, ye sons of Levi:

Numbers 16:9 (KJV) Seemeth it but a small thing unto you, that the God of Israel hath separated you from the congregation of Israel, to bring you near to himself to do the service of the tabernacle of the LORD, and to stand before the congregation to minister unto them?

Exalts Self Into Office

Numbers 16:10 (KJV) And he hath brought thee near to him, and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek ye the priesthood also?

Numbers 16:11 (KJV) For which cause both thou and all thy company are gathered together against the LORD: and what is Aaron, that ye murmur against him?

Rebels Against God’s Authority

Numbers 16:12 (KJV) And Moses sent to call Dathan and Abiram, the sons of Eliab: which said, We will not come up:

Numbers 16:13 (KJV) Is it a small thing that thou hast brought us up out of a land that floweth with milk and honey, to kill us in the wilderness, except thou make thyself altogether a prince over us?

Numbers 16:14 (KJV) Moreover thou hast not brought us into a land that floweth with milk and honey, or given us inheritance of fields and vineyards: wilt thou put out the eyes of these men? we will not come up.

Numbers 16:15 (KJV) And Moses was very wroth, and said unto the LORD, Respect not thou their offering: I have not taken one ass from them, neither have I hurt one of them.

Numbers 16:16 (KJV) And Moses said unto Korah, Be thou and all thy company before the LORD, thou, and they, and Aaron, to morrow:

Numbers 16:17 (KJV) And take every man his censer, and put incense in them, and bring ye before the LORD every man his censer, two hundred and fifty censers; thou also, and Aaron, each of you his censer.

Numbers 16:18 (KJV) And they took every man his censer, and put fire in them, and laid incense thereon, and stood in the door of the tabernacle of the congregation with Moses and Aaron.

Numbers 16:19 (KJV) And Korah gathered all the congregation against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the congregation.

Is Not In Fellowship With God

The LORD Spake Unto MOSES And AARON -- NOT Korah

Numbers 16:20 (KJV) And the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Aaron, saying,

Numbers 16:21 (KJV) Separate yourselves from among this congregation, that I may consume them in a moment.

Numbers 16:22 (KJV) And they fell upon their faces, and said, O God, the God of the spirits of all flesh, shall one man sin, and wilt thou be wroth with all the congregation?

Numbers 16:23 (KJV) And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

Numbers 16:24 (KJV) Speak unto the congregation, saying, Get you up from about the tabernacle of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.

Numbers 16:25 (KJV) And Moses rose up and went unto Dathan and Abiram; and the elders of Israel followed him.

Numbers 16:26 (KJV) And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of theirs, lest ye be consumed in all their sins.

Numbers 16:27 (KJV) So they gat up from the tabernacle of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, on every side: and Dathan and Abiram came out, and stood in the door of their tents, and their wives, and their sons, and their little children.

Falsely Accuses God’s Men Of Self Exaltation

Numbers 16:28 (KJV) And Moses said, Hereby ye shall know that the LORD hath sent me to do all these works; for I have not done them of mine own mind.

Numbers 16:29 (KJV) If these men die the common death of all men, or if they be visited after the visitation of all men; then the LORD hath not sent me.

Numbers 16:30 (KJV) But if the LORD make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that appertain unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the LORD.

Numbers 16:31 (KJV) And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all these words, that the ground clave asunder that was under them:

Numbers 16:32 (KJV) And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods.

Numbers 16:33 (KJV) They, and all that appertained to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation.

Numbers 16:34 (KJV) And all Israel that were round about them fled at the cry of them: for they said, Lest the earth swallow us up also.

3. GOVERNMENT Authorized Priestly Office (FORBIDDEN)

Government-Made Religion:

Is Not Authorized By God

1 Kings 12:25 (KJV) Then Jeroboam built Shechem in mount Ephraim, and dwelt therein; and went out from thence, and built Penuel.

1 Kings 12:26 (KJV) And Jeroboam said in his heart, Now shall the kingdom return to the house of David:

1 Kings 12:27 (KJV) If this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, then shall the heart of this people turn again unto their lord, even unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah.

1 Kings 12:28 (KJV) Whereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves of gold, and said unto them, It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem: behold thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.

Is Sin

1 Kings 12:29 (KJV) And he set the one in Bethel, and the other put he in Dan.

1 Kings 12:30 (KJV) And this thing became a sin: for the people went to worship before the one, even unto Dan.

Has Wicked Priests

1 Kings 12:31 (KJV) And he made an house of high places, and made priests of the lowest of the people, which were not of the sons of Levi.

1 Kings 12:32 (KJV) And Jeroboam ordained a feast in the eighth month, on the fifteenth day of the month, like unto the feast that is in Judah, and he offered upon the altar. So did he in Bethel, sacrificing unto the calves that he had made: and he placed in Bethel the priests of the high places which he had made.

Is From The Imagination Of Man’s Heart

1 Kings 12:33 (KJV) So he offered upon the altar which he had made in Bethel the fifteenth day of the eighth month, even in the month which he had devised of his own heart; and ordained a feast unto the children of Israel: and he offered upon the altar, and burnt incense.

Anointing For The Office Of The King

Abimelech -- The Unauthorized King Of Israel

NOT Authorized By God (But Exalted By Himself)

Judges 9:1 (KJV) And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal went to Shechem unto his mother's brethren, and communed with them, and with all the family of the house of his mother's father, saying,

Judges 9:2 (KJV) Speak, I pray you, in the ears of all the men of Shechem, Whether is better for you, either that all the sons of Jerubbaal, which are threescore and ten persons, reign over you, or that one reign over you? remember also that I am your bone and your flesh.

Judges 9:3 (KJV) And his mother's brethren spake of him in the ears of all the men of Shechem all these words: and their hearts inclined to follow Abimelech; for they said, He is our brother.

Judges 9:4 (KJV) And they gave him threescore and ten pieces of silver out of the house of Baalberith, wherewith Abimelech hired vain and light persons, which followed him.

Judges 9:5 (KJV) And he went unto his father's house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.

Judges 9:6 (KJV) And all the men of Shechem gathered together, and all the house of Millo, and went, and made Abimelech king, by the plain of the pillar that was in Shechem.

God Determines To Remove Abimelech

Judges 9:23 (KJV) Then God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the men of Shechem; and the men of Shechem dealt treacherously with Abimelech:

Abimelech Commits Suicide

Judges 9:50 (KJV) Then went Abimelech to Thebez, and encamped against Thebez, and took it.

Judges 9:51 (KJV) But there was a strong tower within the city, and thither fled all the men and women, and all they of the city, and shut it to them, and gat them up to the top of the tower.

Judges 9:52 (KJV) And Abimelech came unto the tower, and fought against it, and went hard unto the door of the tower to burn it with fire.

Judges 9:53 (KJV) And a certain woman cast a piece of a millstone upon Abimelech's head, and all to brake his skull.

Judges 9:54 (KJV) Then he called hastily unto the young man his armourbearer, and said unto him, Draw thy sword, and slay me, that men say not of me, A woman slew him. And his young man thrust him through, and he died.

Judges 9:55 (KJV) And when the men of Israel saw that Abimelech was dead, they departed every man unto his place.

Judges 9:56 (KJV) Thus God rendered the wickedness of Abimelech, which he did unto his father, in slaying his seventy brethren:

Judges 9:57 (KJV) And all the evil of the men of Shechem did God render upon their heads: and upon them came the curse of Jotham the son of Jerubbaal.

Saul’s Anointing

Authorized By God

1 Samuel 9:14 (KJV) And they went up into the city: and when they were come into the city, behold, Samuel came out against them, for to go up to the high place.

1 Samuel 9:15 (KJV) Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying,

1 Samuel 9:16 (KJV) To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him to be captain over my people Israel, that he may save my people out of the hand of the Philistines: for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me.

1 Samuel 9:17 (KJV) And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people.

Anointed To Be King, Not Priest!

1 Samuel 9:25 (KJV) And when they were come down from the high place into the city, Samuel communed with Saul upon the top of the house.

1 Samuel 9:26 (KJV) And they arose early: and it came to pass about the spring of the day, that Samuel called Saul to the top of the house, saying, Up, that I may send thee away. And Saul arose, and they went out both of them, he and Samuel, abroad.

1 Samuel 9:27 (KJV) And as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God.

1 Samuel 10:1 (KJV) Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?

Samuel Is Late

1 Samuel 13:8 (KJV) And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him.

Saul Takes The Priestly Duties

1 Samuel 13:9 (KJV) And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering.

1 Samuel 13:10 (KJV) And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him.

1 Samuel 13:11 (KJV) And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash;

1 Samuel 13:12 (KJV) Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the LORD: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering.

Thou Hast Done Foolishly - Kingdom Removed!

1 Samuel 13:13 (KJV) And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever.

1 Samuel 13:14 (KJV) But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.

Ishbosheth -- The Unauthorized King Of Isreal

Saul’s Sons Die

1 Samuel 31:5 (KJV) And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise upon his sword, and died with him.

1 Samuel 31:6 (KJV) So Saul died, and his three sons, and his armourbearer, and all his men, that same day together.

1 Samuel 31:7 (KJV) And when the men of Israel that were on the other side of the valley, and they that were on the other side Jordan, saw that the men of Israel fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they forsook the cities, and fled; and the Philistines came and dwelt in them.

NOT Authorized By God (But Placed By Abner)

2 Samuel 2:8 (KJV) But Abner the son of Ner, captain of Saul's host, took Ishbosheth the son of Saul, and brought him over to Mahanaim;

2 Samuel 2:9 (KJV) And made him king over Gilead, and over the Ashurites, and over Jezreel, and over Ephraim, and over Benjamin, and over all Israel.

2 Samuel 2:10 (KJV) Ishbosheth Saul's son was forty years old when he began to reign over Israel, and reigned two years. But the house of Judah followed David.

2 Samuel 2:11 (KJV) And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months.

To Translate The Kingdom From The House Of Saul

2 Samuel 3:7 (KJV) And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah: and Ishbosheth said to Abner, Wherefore hast thou gone in unto my father's concubine?

2 Samuel 3:8 (KJV) Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ishbosheth, and said, Am I a dog's head, which against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a fault concerning this woman?

2 Samuel 3:9 (KJV) So do God to Abner, and more also, except, as the LORD hath sworn to David, even so I do to him;

2 Samuel 3:10 (KJV) To translate the kingdom from the house of Saul, and to set up the throne of David over Israel and over Judah, from Dan even to Beersheba.

2 Samuel 3:11 (KJV) And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.

Ishbosheth Murdered

2 Samuel 4:5 (KJV) And the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, Rechab and Baanah, went, and came about the heat of the day to the house of Ishbosheth, who lay on a bed at noon.

2 Samuel 4:6 (KJV) And they came thither into the midst of the house, [as though] they would have fetched wheat; and they smote him under the fifth [rib]: and Rechab and Baanah his brother escaped.

2 Samuel 4:7 (KJV) For when they came into the house, he lay on his bed in his bedchamber, and they smote him, and slew him, and beheaded him, and took his head, and gat them away through the plain all night.

2 Samuel 4:8 (KJV) And they brought the head of Ishbosheth unto David to Hebron, and said to the king, Behold the head of Ishbosheth the son of Saul thine enemy, which sought thy life; and the LORD hath avenged my lord the king this day of Saul, and of his seed.

David’s Three Fold Anointing

Authorized By God

1 Samuel 16:1 (KJV) And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.

Anointed By Samuel

First among is brethren in secret by Samuel, at God’s direction.

1 Samuel 16:6 (KJV) And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD'S anointed is before him.

1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV) But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

1 Samuel 16:8 (KJV) Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this.

1 Samuel 16:9 (KJV) Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this.

1 Samuel 16:10 (KJV) Again, Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said unto Jesse, The LORD hath not chosen these.

1 Samuel 16:11 (KJV) And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither.

1 Samuel 16:12 (KJV) And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he.

1 Samuel 16:13 (KJV) Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.

Anointed By Judah

Second, David was owned as king by Judah.

2 Samuel 2:1 (KJV) And it came to pass after this, that David inquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up? And he said, Unto Hebron.

2 Samuel 2:2 (KJV) So David went up thither, and his two wives also, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail Nabal's wife the Carmelite.

2 Samuel 2:3 (KJV) And his men that were with him did David bring up, every man with his household: and they dwelt in the cities of Hebron.

2 Samuel 2:4 (KJV) And the men of Judah came, and there they anointed David king over the house of Judah. And they told David, saying, That the men of Jabeshgilead were they that buried Saul.

Anointed By Israel

Third, he was anointed as king “over all Israel ”.

2 Samuel 5:1 (KJV) Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh.

2 Samuel 5:2 (KJV) Also in time past, when Saul was king over us, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD said to thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be a captain over Israel.

2 Samuel 5:3 (KJV) So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David made a league with them in Hebron before the LORD: and they anointed David king over Israel.

Absalom -- The Unauthorized King Of Israel

Oh That I Were Made Judge In The Land

2 Samuel 15:1 (KJV) And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.

2 Samuel 15:2 (KJV) And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel.

2 Samuel 15:3 (KJV) And Absalom said unto him, See, thy matters are good and right; but there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee.

2 Samuel 15:4 (KJV) Absalom said moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!

2 Samuel 15:5 (KJV) And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him.

2 Samuel 15:6 (KJV) And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.

Then Ye Shall Say, Absalom Reigneth In Hebron

2 Samuel 15:10 (KJV) But Absalom sent spies throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, As soon as ye hear the sound of the trumpet, then ye shall say, Absalom reigneth in Hebron.

2 Samuel 15:11 (KJV) And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were called; and they went in their simplicity, and they knew not any thing.

2 Samuel 15:12 (KJV) And Absalom sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David's counseller, from his city, even from Giloh, while he offered sacrifices. And the conspiracy was strong; for the people increased continually with Absalom.

And Smote Absalom, And Slew Him

2 Samuel 18:14 (KJV) Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak.

2 Samuel 18:15 (KJV) And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him.

Adonijah -- The Unauthorized King Of Israel

Adonijah... Exalted Himself

1 Kings 1:5 (KJV) Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him chariots and horsemen, and fifty men to run before him.

Why Then Doth Adonijah Reign

1 Kings 1:11 (KJV) Wherefore Nathan spake unto Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, saying, Hast thou not heard that Adonijah the son of Haggith doth reign, and David our lord knoweth it not?

1 Kings 1:12 (KJV) Now therefore come, let me, I pray thee, give thee counsel, that thou mayest save thine own life, and the life of thy son Solomon.

1 Kings 1:13 (KJV) Go and get thee in unto king David, and say unto him, Didst not thou, my lord, O king, swear unto thine handmaid, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne? why then doth Adonijah reign?

David Hath Made Solomon King

1 Kings 1:41 (KJV) And Adonijah and all the guests that were with him heard it as they had made an end of eating. And when Joab heard the sound of the trumpet, he said, Wherefore is this noise of the city being in an uproar?

1 Kings 1:42 (KJV) And while he yet spake, behold, Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest came: and Adonijah said unto him, Come in; for thou art a valiant man, and bringest good tidings.

1 Kings 1:43 (KJV) And Jonathan answered and said to Adonijah, Verily our lord king David hath made Solomon king.

1 Kings 1:44 (KJV) And the king hath sent with him Zadok the priest, and Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and the Cherethites, and the Pelethites, and they have caused him to ride upon the king's mule:

1 Kings 1:45 (KJV) And Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet have anointed him king in Gihon: and they are come up from thence rejoicing, so that the city rang again. This is the noise that ye have heard.

1 Kings 1:46 (KJV) And also Solomon sitteth on the throne of the kingdom.

1 Kings 1:47 (KJV) And moreover the king's servants came to bless our lord king David, saying, God make the name of Solomon better than thy name, and make his throne greater than thy throne. And the king bowed himself upon the bed.

1 Kings 1:48 (KJV) And also thus said the king, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which hath given one to sit on my throne this day, mine eyes even seeing it.

1 Kings 1:49 (KJV) And all the guests that were with Adonijah were afraid, and rose up, and went every man his way.

1 Kings 1:50 (KJV) And Adonijah feared because of Solomon, and arose, and went, and caught hold on the horns of the altar.

1 Kings 1:51 (KJV) And it was told Solomon, saying, Behold, Adonijah feareth king Solomon: for, lo, he hath caught hold on the horns of the altar, saying, Let king Solomon swear unto me to day that he will not slay his servant with the sword.

1 Kings 1:52 (KJV) And Solomon said, If he will shew himself a worthy man, there shall not an hair of him fall to the earth: but if wickedness shall be found in him, he shall die.

1 Kings 1:53 (KJV) So king Solomon sent, and they brought him down from the altar. And he came and bowed himself to king Solomon: and Solomon said unto him, Go to thine house.

Adonijah Shall Be Put To Death This Day

1 Kings 2:24 (KJV) Now therefore, as the LORD liveth, which hath established me, and set me on the throne of David my father, and who hath made me an house, as he promised, Adonijah shall be put to death this day.

1 Kings 2:25 (KJV) And king Solomon sent by the hand of Benaiah the son of Jehoiada; and he fell upon him that he died.

Uzziah Takes Upon Himself The Office Of The Priest

Pride Took Him Out Of His Place

2 Chronicles 26:16 (KJV) But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of incense.

He Was Reminded That He Didn’t Have Priestly Authority

2 Chronicles 26:17 (KJV) And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, that were valiant men:

2 Chronicles 26:18 (KJV) And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the LORD, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense: go out of the sanctuary; for thou hast trespassed; neither shall it be for thine honour from the LORD God.

Judged By God

2 Chronicles 26:19 (KJV) Then Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense: and while he was wroth with the priests, the leprosy even rose up in his forehead before the priests in the house of the LORD, from beside the incense altar.

2 Chronicles 26:20 (KJV) And Azariah the chief priest, and all the priests, looked upon him, and, behold, he was leprous in his forehead, and they thrust him out from thence; yea, himself hasted also to go out, because the LORD had smitten him.

New Testament Authority

John Was Authorized To Baptize

Old Testament Prophecies Of John Identifying Him As Authorized

Isaiah

Isaiah 40:1 (KJV) Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.

Isaiah 40:2 (KJV) Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the LORD'S hand double for all her sins.

Isaiah 40:3 (KJV) The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.

Isaiah 40:4 (KJV) Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain:

Isaiah 40:5 (KJV) And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.

Isaiah 40:6 (KJV) The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field:

Isaiah 40:7 (KJV) The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass.

Isaiah 40:8 (KJV) The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.

Malachi

Malachi 3:1 (KJV) Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.

John The Baptist Ushered In The Church Age

Until John

Matthew 11:11 (KJV) Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

Matthew 11:12 (KJV) And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.

Matthew 11:13 (KJV) For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.

Until John

Luke 16:14 (KJV) And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.

Luke 16:15 (KJV) And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

Luke 16:16 (KJV) The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it.

The Old Testament ended and the New Testament began with the preaching of John the Baptist. John the Baptist ushered in the church era. John the Baptist was not the ‘last of the Old Testament prophets’, he was the first New Testament preacher.

1st Proper Authority Is Required (God Said John Was God’s Messenger)

Mark 1:1 (KJV) The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;

Mark 1:2 (KJV) As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

2^nd Salvation (Repentance)

Mark 1:3 (KJV) The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

Mark 1:4 (KJV) John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of REPENTANCE for the remission of sins.

remission -- Forgiveness; pardon; that is, the giving up of the punishment due to a crime; as the remission of sins.

3^rd Baptism (By The Proper Authority - John)

Mark 1:5 (KJV) And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

Mark 1:6 (KJV) And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;

Mark 1:7 (KJV) And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose.

Mark 1:8 (KJV) I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.

Jesus Was Baptized By The Proper Authority - John

Mark 1:9 (KJV) And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan.

Mark 1:10 (KJV) And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:

Jesus’ Authority Identified (My Beloved Son)

Mark 1:11 (KJV) And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Mark 1:12 (KJV) And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness.

Mark 1:13 (KJV) And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him.

John Baptized John’s Disciples, John’s Disciples Followed Jesus

John 1:35 (KJV) Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;

John 1:36 (KJV) And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!

John 1:37 (KJV) And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.

John 1:38 (KJV) Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou?

John 1:39 (KJV) He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.

John 1:40 (KJV) One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother.

John 1:41 (KJV) He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.

John 1:42 (KJV) And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.

John 1:43 (KJV) The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.

John 1:44 (KJV) Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.

John 1:45 (KJV) Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.

Jesus’ Disciples Baptized Other Believers

John 4:1 (KJV) When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John,

John 4:2 (KJV) (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

John 4:3 (KJV) He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee.

Jesus Validated John’s Authority

Even the chief priests, scribes, and elders recognized that authority was required before God’s work could be performed.

Mark 11:27 (KJV) And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders,

Mark 11:28 (KJV) And say unto him, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority to do these things?

Mark 11:29 (KJV) And Jesus answered and said unto them, I will also ask of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things.

Mark 11:30 (KJV) The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me.

Mark 11:31 (KJV) And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did ye not believe him?

Mark 11:32 (KJV) But if we shall say, Of men; they feared the people: for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed.

Mark 11:33 (KJV) And they answered and said unto Jesus, We cannot tell. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.

Jesus Was Authorized To Ordain His Disciples

God Gave Jesus His (Jesus’) Authority

God Anointed Jesus

Acts 10:38 (KJV) How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

Whom He (God) Hath Ordained

Acts 17:30 (KJV) And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

Acts 17:31 (KJV) Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Jesus (God) Gave Authority To Preach To His Disciples

Mark 3:13 (KJV) And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him.

Mark 3:14 (KJV) AND HE ORDAINED TWELVE, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,

Mark 3:15 (KJV) And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:

The Names Of The 12 Disciples

Mark 3:16 (KJV) And Simon he surnamed Peter;

Mark 3:17 (KJV) And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder:

Mark 3:18 (KJV) And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,

Mark 3:19 (KJV) And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him: and they went into an house.

The Disciples Did Not Give Themselves The Authority

John 15:16 (KJV) Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

The Church Existed Before Pentecost

I WILL Build My Church (The Church Does Not Yet Exist)

The church was not yet in existence at this point.

Matthew 16:13 (KJV) When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?

Matthew 16:14 (KJV) And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.

Matthew 16:15 (KJV) He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?

Matthew 16:16 (KJV) And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Matthew 16:17 (KJV) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 16:18 (KJV) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter [petros], and upon this rock [petra] I will build my church [ekklesia]; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Jesus is the Rock, Peter is the stone.

Jesus is saying to Peter

· “Peter, you are a piece of a stone.”

· “Upon this Rock (Jesus himself) I will build my church.”

Also recall that Peter is the only disciple to:

· Be offensive to Jesus

· Deny Jesus, not just once, but three times

So, we can see that Jesus is not elevating Peter to a high position but putting him down in his place and that was under the authority of Jesus.

Matthew 16:19 (KJV) And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

This is referring to the church. Continue reading where Jesus speaks of “tell it to the church”.

Matthew 16:20 (KJV) Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

Matthew 16:21 (KJV) From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.

Matthew 16:22 (KJV) Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.

Matthew 16:23 (KJV) But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.

Tell It To The Church (The Church Now Exists)

The church is now in existence, before Jesus died on the cross and before the day of Pentecost. It is not possible to “tell it to the church” if the church is not yet in existence.

Matthew 18:15 (KJV) Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

Matthew 18:16 (KJV) But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

Matthew 18:17 (KJV) And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

Matthew 18:18 (KJV) Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Matthew 18:19 (KJV) Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.

Matthew 18:20 (KJV) For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

A church only needs two or three members to exists.

Jesus Is The Rock

Peter Claims That Jesus Is The Rock

Peter never claims to be the ‘rock’, in fact, he claims that Jesus is the Rock and those that can’t see this are stumbling at the word.

1 Peter 2:1 (KJV) Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,

1 Peter 2:2 (KJV) As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

1 Peter 2:3 (KJV) If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

1 Peter 2:4 (KJV) To whom coming, as unto a living stone [leethos], disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,

1 Peter 2:5 (KJV) Ye also, as lively stones [leethos], are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:6 (KJV) Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

1 Peter 2:7 (KJV) Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,

1 Peter 2:8 (KJV) And a stone of stumbling, and a ROCK [PETRA] OF OFFENCE, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

Paul Claimed That Jesus Is The Rock

Rock Of Offence

Romans 9:33 (KJV) As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock [petra] of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

That Rock Was Christ

1 Corinthians 10:1 (KJV) Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

1 Corinthians 10:2 (KJV) And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

1 Corinthians 10:3 (KJV) And did all eat the same spiritual meat;

1 Corinthians 10:4 (KJV) And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock [petra] was Christ.

The Chief Cornerstone

Ephesians 2:19 (KJV) Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

Ephesians 2:20 (KJV) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

Ephesians 2:21 (KJV) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

Ephesians 2:22 (KJV) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

Jesus Is The Head Of The Church

The Head Over All Things To The Church

Ephesians 1:20 (KJV) Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,

Ephesians 1:21 (KJV) Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Ephesians 1:22 (KJV) And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,

Ephesians 1:23 (KJV) Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

Christ Is The Head Of The Church

Ephesians 5:22 (KJV) Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.

Ephesians 5:23 (KJV) For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.

Ephesians 5:24 (KJV) Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

And He Is The Head Of The Body, The Church

Colossians 1:13 (KJV) Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:

Colossians 1:14 (KJV) In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Colossians 1:15 (KJV) Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

Colossians 1:16 (KJV) For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:

Colossians 1:17 (KJV) And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Colossians 1:18 (KJV) And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Jesus Gave The Church The Great Commission

The command to “Go”, “Teach”, “Baptize”, and “Teach” was given to the eleven existing baptized, ordained apostles of the pre-Pentecost church. A church member that has not been ordained may not perform the church ordinances, baptism and the Lord’s Supper, since they have not been authorized to do that.

Go, Teach, Baptize, Teach

Matthew 28:16 (KJV) Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.

Matthew 28:17 (KJV) And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

Matthew 28:18 (KJV) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Matthew 28:19 (KJV) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Matthew 28:20 (KJV) Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Preach The GOSPEL To Every Creature

Mark 16:14 (KJV) Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.

Mark 16:15 (KJV) And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the GOSPEL to every creature.

Mark 16:16 (KJV) He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Mark 16:17 (KJV) And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;

Mark 16:18 (KJV) They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

Built Upon The Foundation Of The Apostles And Prophets

The church is “built upon”, meaning that a person without authority from the church may not start a church or perform the church ordinances. The order is as follows:

1. Jesus Christ

2. Apostles & Prophets

3. church members

Ephesians 2:19 (KJV) Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;

Ephesians 2:20 (KJV) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

Ephesians 2:21 (KJV) In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:

Ephesians 2:22 (KJV) In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

The Church Ordained The Last Apostle

Judas Was The Treasure Of The Church

John 13:29 (KJV) For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.

Judas held this office before Jesus was crucified. So, we have a record of there being a treasurer, which is an office in the church.

Judas Was A Member Of The Church

The church conducted this business meeting before the day of Pentecost. It had a membership roll, Peter called the names of the members.

Acts 1:15 (KJV) And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)

Acts 1:16 (KJV) Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.

Acts 1:17 (KJV) For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.

Acts 1:18 (KJV) Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.

Acts 1:19 (KJV) And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.

Judas Held An Authorized Office

Acts 1:20 (KJV) For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.

Acts 1:21 (KJV) Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,

This business meeting was being conducted before the day of Pentecost, the church was already in existence.

Baptist Perpetuity (Beginning From The Baptism Of John)

Acts 1:22 (KJV) BEGINNING FROM THE BAPTISM OF JOHN, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.

One of the requirements to be an apostle was to be baptized by John the Baptist. John the Baptist was the only one authorized to baptize until Jesus ordained the apostles and gave them the authority to baptize.

· Baptism was required.

· Not just any baptism, John’s baptism.

· Therefore, all of the apostles must have been baptized by John the Baptist because at this point no one else was authorized to baptize.

· Salvation is a pre-requisite to baptism; therefore all of the disciples had made a profession of salvation and all (except for Judas Iscariot) were saved.

The Church Gives The Authority To Hold An Official Office

The Disciples Appointed Two

Acts 1:23 (KJV) And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.

Acts 1:24 (KJV) And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,

The Church Voted On The Two

Acts 1:25 (KJV) That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.

Acts 1:26 (KJV) And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

Before The Day Of Pentecost, The Church Practiced The Following

The Lord’s Supper

The “Lord’s Supper” was instituted before the day of Pentecost.

Baptism

Baptism was instituted before the day of Pentecost.

Ordination

The 11 apostles ordained Judas’ replacement

Tithing

Matthew 23:23 (KJV) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

Luke 11:42 (KJV) But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

Singing

Matthew 26:30 (KJV) And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

Mark 14:26 (KJV) And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

Prayer

Acts 1:12 (KJV) Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey.

Acts 1:13 (KJV) And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James.

Acts 1:14 (KJV) These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.

The Great Commission

The Great Commission was given to the church before the day of Pentecost.

The Day Of Pentecost - The Church Was Already In Existence

The church was already in existence.

· At this point, all of the apostles has been saved, baptized, and ordained.

· They were sent to preach and had been baptizing the saved.

· The church also had a treasurer (Judas Iscariot)

· The church was conducting business meetings.

· The business meeting to determine Judas Iscariots successor had about 120 members present.

· The church had a membership roll, Peter called the names of the members.

Acts 2:1 (KJV) And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.

Acts 2:2 (KJV) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.

Acts 2:3 (KJV) And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

Acts 2:4 (KJV) And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

The 12 Apostles Ordained Other Church Members

Recall that Jesus ordained the 12 apostles.

Philip And Stephen Were Ordained By The Apostles

Acts 6:1 (KJV) And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.

Acts 6:2 (KJV) Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.

Acts 6:3 (KJV) Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

Acts 6:4 (KJV) But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

Acts 6:5 (KJV) And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:

Acts 6:6 (KJV) Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

Acts 6:7 (KJV) And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Philip Baptized After His Ordination

Acts 8:36 (KJV) And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?

Acts 8:37 (KJV) And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Acts 8:38 (KJV) And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.

The Line Of Succession (Perpetuity Of The Baptist Church)

Jesus ordained the 12 apostles.

The 12 apostles ordained other disciples.

The disciples that were ordained by an existing legitimate authority (the apostles) were now authorized to baptize. Authority to do God’s work was now granted to these disciples.

Conclusion: All authority must be received from an existing legitimate source that has already been granted authority.

Paul’s Authority (The Formula For The Perpetuity Of The “Baptist” Church)

Before Authorization

Paul Was Persecuting The Church

Acts 9:1 (KJV) And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,

Acts 9:2 (KJV) And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

Acts 9:3 (KJV) And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:

Acts 9:4 (KJV) And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

Acts 9:5 (KJV) And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Paul Was Converted But Not A Church Member

Acts 9:6 (KJV) And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

Acts 9:7 (KJV) And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.

Acts 9:8 (KJV) And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.

Acts 9:9 (KJV) And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

Paul Was Baptized (Became A Church Member)

Acts 9:10 (KJV) And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.

Acts 9:11 (KJV) And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,

Acts 9:12 (KJV) And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

Acts 9:13 (KJV) Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

Acts 9:14 (KJV) And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.

Acts 9:15 (KJV) But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

Acts 9:16 (KJV) For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

Acts 9:17 (KJV) And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

Acts 9:18 (KJV) And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

Acts 9:19 (KJV) And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

Paul Was Preaching But Not Baptizing (Authority Not Yet Given)

Acts 9:20 (KJV) And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

Acts 9:21 (KJV) But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?

Acts 9:22 (KJV) But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

Paul & Barnabas Were Called By God

Acts 13:1 (KJV) Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.

Acts 13:2 (KJV) As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

Paul & Barnabas Were Ordained By The Church (Authority Given)

Acts 13:3 (KJV) And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Paul Was Sent By The Church (After Authority Was Given)

“They sent them away.”

After Authorization - Then Paul Baptized

Paul’s 1^st Recorded Baptism (Lydia)

Acts 16:13 (KJV) And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.

Acts 16:14 (KJV) And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

Acts 16:15 (KJV) And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

Paul’s 2^nd Recorded Baptism (Keeper Of The Prison)

Acts 16:25 (KJV) And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

Acts 16:26 (KJV) And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.

Acts 16:27 (KJV) And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

Acts 16:28 (KJV) But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.

Acts 16:29 (KJV) Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas,

Acts 16:30 (KJV) And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

Acts 16:31 (KJV) And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.

Acts 16:32 (KJV) And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house.

Acts 16:33 (KJV) And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.

Acts 16:34 (KJV) And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.

Paul’s 3^rd Recorded Baptism (Crispus)

Acts 18:1 (KJV) After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;

Acts 18:2 (KJV) And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.

Acts 18:3 (KJV) And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.

Acts 18:4 (KJV) And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.

Acts 18:5 (KJV) And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.

Acts 18:6 (KJV) And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.

Acts 18:7 (KJV) And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.

Acts 18:8 (KJV) And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

Gaius - His Baptism Was Not Recorded

There is no record of the baptism of Gaius. The Bible does not record every single event that happened to each individual that is mentioned in the Bible. However, we know that Gaius was baptized because Paul states that he (Paul) baptized him (Gaius). The following are all of the verses that speak of Gaius.

Acts 19:29 (KJV) And the whole city was filled with confusion: and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul's companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre.

Acts 20:4 (KJV) And there accompanied him into Asia Sopater of Berea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus; and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus.

Romans 16:23 (KJV) Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.

1 Corinthians 1:14 (KJV) I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and GAIUS;

3 John 1:1 (KJV) The elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.

The point is, we do not need to have a record of each disciple’s salvation, baptism, and ordination (like that of Paul) that records each event of their life to know that they followed the pattern that is shown by the record of Paul. By the definition of a disciple we know that all of the disciples were

· saved

· baptized (by an authorized person with the consent of the church)

· ordained (by an authorized persons with the consent of the church)

· sent by the church

· then began to baptize (with the consent/authority of the church in which they were a member)

So, for example, Paul tells us that he baptized Gaius. We can correctly deduce that Gaius received Christ as his Lord and Saviour (was born again / made a profession of salvation) before he was baptized even though there is no record of his baptism. A profession of salvation is the pre-requisite of baptism.

We may also correctly deduce that everyone who was baptizing had already made a profession of salvation, was baptized, called, ordained, and sent by the church -- even though we don’t have a record of this process for each individual that was baptizing.

Peter’s Authority (He Baptized Cornelius)

Peter had been baptized by John the Baptist and had been ordained by Jesus Christ. Peter had already participated in the ordination of the 12^th disciple that replaced Judas. Peter had already participated in the ordination of 7 men as deacons. Peter was sent by God to Cornelius. Peter had the authority to baptize; therefore, Cornelius was baptized by an authorized authority.

Acts 10:30 (KJV) And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

Acts 10:31 (KJV) And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

Acts 10:32 (KJV) Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.

Acts 10:33 (KJV) Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.

Acts 10:44 (KJV) While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.

Acts 10:45 (KJV) And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Acts 10:46 (KJV) For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,

Acts 10:47 (KJV) Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?

Acts 10:48 (KJV) And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

The Ordination Of Other (Un-Named) Individuals

Ordained Elders In Every Church

Paul and Barnabas (both ordained at the same time, remember?) were ordaining elders. A person who had authority was giving the authority to others.

Acts 14:19 (KJV) And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.

Acts 14:20 (KJV) Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

Acts 14:21 (KJV) And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,

Acts 14:22 (KJV) 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.

Acts 14:23 (KJV) And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

Ordain Elders In Every City

Paul is instructing Titus to “ordain elders in every city”.

Titus 1:1 (KJV) Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;

Titus 1:2 (KJV) In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

Titus 1:3 (KJV) But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;

Titus 1:4 (KJV) To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Titus 1:5 (KJV) For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:

Titus 1:6 (KJV) If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.

Titus 1:7 (KJV) For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;

Titus 1:8 (KJV) But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate;

Titus 1:9 (KJV) Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

All Authority Must Have A Legitimate Source

Except It Be Given Him From Heaven

John 3:25 (KJV) Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.

John 3:26 (KJV) 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 3:27 (KJV) John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.

No Man Taketh This Honour Unto Himself

Taken From Among Men

Hebrews 5:1 (KJV) For every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he may offer both gifts and sacrifices for sins:

Hebrews 5:2 (KJV) Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed with infirmity.

Hebrews 5:3 (KJV) And by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.

Not Self-Given

Hebrews 5:4 (KJV) AND NO MAN TAKETH THIS HONOUR UNTO HIMSELF, BUT HE THAT IS CALLED OF GOD, AS WAS AARON.

The Father Gave The Son The Authority

Hebrews 5:5 (KJV) So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an high priest; but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee.

If A Man Strive For Masteries

Except He Strive Lawfully

2 Timothy 2:1 (KJV) Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 2:2 (KJV) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2 Timothy 2:3 (KJV) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

2 Timothy 2:4 (KJV) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.

2 Timothy 2:5 (KJV) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.

Consider What I Say

2 Timothy 2:6 (KJV) The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.

2 Timothy 2:7 (KJV) Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.