#FMRadio | Show #13 | ECF | Salvation

Name: #FMRadio | Show #13 | ECF | Salvation
Uploaded: 2017-07-19T00:00:00.000Z
Duration: 1 h 58 min 43 s

Introduction to Dr. Michael J. Pedro and His Ministry

Overview of Dr. Michael J. Pedro

Dr. Michael J. Pedro is the founder and head pastor at Warner Ministries International based in Southern California, recognized as a prophetic evangelist focused on holiness.

He has witnessed numerous healings from various diseases during his conferences, including cancer, deafness, blindness, HIV, and paralysis.

Impact of His Ministry

Dr. Pedro's ministry has led to revival experiences globally, with many believers reporting supernatural encounters and heavenly visitations.

He emphasizes that the message he brings aligns closely with early church teachings prior to 325 AD.

Understanding "Apocalypse" Beyond End Times

Redefining Apocalypse

The term "apocalypse" is often misunderstood; it signifies the removal of the veil rather than an end-of-the-world scenario.

This concept invites believers into deeper relationships with God within the realm of glory.

The Menorah Symbolism

The menorah represents the church filled with anointing oil; it symbolizes access to divine presence beyond the veil.

Believers who experience this revelation are called to enact Jesus's will on Earth through their priestly roles.

Exploring Salvation Through Early Church Perspectives

Historical Context of Salvation

A discussion on salvation will be framed through early church perspectives, challenging contemporary views that may differ significantly.

Modern Christianity often seeks comfort over truth; however, understanding historical theology is crucial for spiritual growth.

Unity in Christ's Message

There exists significant division among different Christian denominations regarding theological interpretations despite sharing the same Savior.

Emphasizing that true theology centers around Jesus himself; any deviation from early church teachings could lead to misrepresentations of Christ.

Seeking Authenticity in Faith

Call for Genuine Understanding

Dr. Pedro urges listeners to seek authentic representations of Jesus as understood by early Christians rather than modern interpretations.

He encourages a journey back to foundational beliefs about salvation as taught by early church fathers for a more profound faith experience.

The Call to Preach the Early Church Gospel

The Importance of Returning to Early Teachings

The speaker emphasizes the need for modern preachers to align with the gospel of the early church, suggesting a collective movement towards this foundational message.

He critiques contemporary religious denominations, arguing that they often distract from Jesus's teachings and warns against getting stuck in outdated practices.

Warnings Against False Allegiances

The speaker references Jesus's confrontation with Pharisees and Sadducees who claimed innocence regarding their ancestors' actions against prophets, highlighting a warning about false affiliations.

He stresses that being associated with those who oppose God's anointed can lead to spiritual trouble, urging listeners to be discerning about their spiritual lineage.

The Legacy of Early Church Leaders

The importance of early church leaders is underscored; they are credited with compiling the Bible and preserving essential truths through martyrdom.

These leaders faced persecution but chose truth over comfort, emphasizing that suffering for faith is preferable to compromising beliefs.

Understanding Salvation Through Hidden Scriptures

Transitioning into a discussion on salvation, he cites Clemente’s writings which suggest that scripture contains hidden meanings meant to inspire inquiry among believers.

Clemente argues that not all can grasp these truths without harm, indicating a divine purpose behind veiled messages in scripture.

Mysteries and Revelations in Scripture

The speaker notes that prophetic mysteries are often presented in parables, reserved for those chosen by God to unlock deeper understanding.

He highlights the distinction between being called (ecclesia or church members) versus being chosen—those who delve deeper into scriptural knowledge.

Anticipation of Divine Revelation

There is an expectation that God will unveil secrets at the end of times as part of His glory move within the church.

Understanding Salvation in Early Christianity

The Nature of Salvation

The discussion begins with a focus on the concept of salvation as understood by the early church, emphasizing that it involves uncovering hidden truths.

Reference to Clemente highlights that salvation is linked to revelations found in Scripture, which many fail to grasp due to lack of study.

Jesus rebukes the rabbis for searching Scriptures without recognizing Him as the source of eternal life (John 5:39).

Misunderstandings Among Religious Leaders

The Pharisees and Sadducees are criticized for their inability to see Jesus in the Scriptures despite their extensive study.

Ignatius, an early Church Father, admonishes his congregation for engaging in theological debates while missing Christ's symbolism.

The First Gentile Conversion

Discussion shifts to Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch, who seeks understanding from Isaiah about Jesus as the Passover lamb.

Notably, this conversion did not involve a sinner's prayer; instead, it was based on revelation and understanding.

Examination of Sinner's Prayer Concept

There is skepticism regarding the necessity of a sinner's prayer for salvation; historical evidence suggests early Christians did not practice this method.

A critical view is presented on misinterpretations of Scripture that suggest calling upon the Lord guarantees salvation without deeper understanding.

Confession and Righteousness

Questions arise about simple confessions leading to salvation when even demons recognize Jesus' authority but remain unsaved (Mark 1:24).

Understanding Righteousness and Works in Faith

The Importance of Right Understanding of Scripture

The speaker emphasizes the necessity of having a correct understanding of Scripture, citing Jesus' warning about false teachings and the importance of truth for salvation.

It is highlighted that Jesus is the Word, and understanding Him correctly should lead to personal transformation and freedom from bondage.

The power of truth is discussed, asserting that it can create universes and liberate individuals, suggesting that churches should be places of healing.

Confession Through Actions

The speaker notes that true confession comes through works rather than mere words; Jesus recognizes individuals by their actions as stated in Revelation.

A distinction is made between verbal declarations of love for God and actual obedience to His commandments, indicating a disconnect when actions do not align with professed beliefs.

Characteristics of True Believers

True believers are called to exhibit compassion, goodness, and righteousness in their lives while avoiding wicked behaviors.

There’s a warning against being complacent or hypocritical; even those who gather in faith may be cast off if they do not keep God's commandments.

Iniquity vs. Righteousness

The discussion transitions to the concept of knowing Christ beyond just name recognition; there are two classes: those practicing righteousness versus those engaging in iniquity.

Many justify sinful behavior within the church context, leading to a culture where blatant sins like adultery are overlooked despite clear biblical teachings against them.

Transformation as Evidence of Faith

Emphasis on transformation as an essential aspect of salvation—true knowledge of God leads to changes in character and lifestyle.

Critique is offered regarding modern interpretations that dilute biblical terms like salvation and grace, stressing the need for accurate understanding based on early church teachings.

Misconceptions About the Holy Spirit

A common misconception addressed is regarding the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament; it asserts that God's spirit has always been present throughout scripture.

Understanding Salvation and Spiritual Growth

The Nature of a Perfect Life

Discussion on the perception of living a "perfect life" and how it relates to being a good person, emphasizing that true change comes from divine revelation rather than mere adherence to rules.

Impartation of Christ's Nature

Emphasis on the importance of having Christ's nature imparted into believers, which enables them to manifest good works as an expression of their faith rather than through self-effort.

Maturity in Faith

The metaphor of spiritual infancy is used to illustrate the need for guidance from mature believers (fathers and mothers in faith) for proper growth and understanding in one's spiritual journey.

Formation of Christ in Believers

Reference to Paul's laboring for Christ to be formed within believers, highlighting concerns about the lack of genuine manifestation of Jesus' character among many Christians today.

Re-evaluating Church Teachings

A call for re-examination of traditional teachings within the church, suggesting that many foundational beliefs may be based on misconceptions or incomplete understandings passed down through generations.

Exploring High Priesthood and Sacrifice

Metaphors in Understanding Identity

Discussion on various biblical metaphors such as lambs, priests, and high priests, illustrating different roles within God's kingdom and emphasizing the significance of sacrifice in spiritual identity.

Anointing as a Position

Explanation that anointing signifies a high priestly position with access behind the veil into God's presence; questioning whether individuals truly understand this concept.

Salvation According to Early Church Perspectives

Introduction to salvation as understood by early church figures who were closest to Jesus, contrasting modern interpretations with original meanings rooted in Hebrew language and culture.

Character and Function in Names

What Does the Early Church Teach About Grace and Purification?

The Concept of Purification in the Early Church

The early church emphasized a three-fold purification process involving the soul, works, and thoughts. They believed that God judges not only actions but also thoughts and idle words.

A simple confession is insufficient for true purity; genuine salvation requires an ongoing process of working out one's salvation with fear and trembling.

Many modern beliefs suggest that saying a prayer is enough for salvation, which contradicts early church teachings focused on fasting, self-discipline, and spiritual growth.

Understanding Spiritual Works

Spiritual works are distinct from physical acts; they involve deeper understanding and revelation beyond mere adherence to scripture.

Acts of service such as providing for the poor should include sharing spiritual nourishment (scripture), highlighting the importance of both physical and spiritual support.

The Nature of Grace According to Early Church Fathers

Tertullian noted that grace must be learned and can be canceled by repeated sinning, contrasting with contemporary views that often overlook this aspect.

There is a misconception today that grace covers all sins without accountability; however, early teachings indicate that ignorance of truth leads to sinful behavior.

Misinterpretations of Grace

Grace has been misinterpreted as a license for immorality; early church leaders had a more nuanced understanding emphasizing responsibility alongside grace.

Faith without works is dead—this principle underscores the necessity of demonstrating faith through actions rather than relying solely on belief or grace alone.

The Role of Good Works in Salvation

Clement stated that while we are saved by grace, it cannot exist without good works. A healthy mindset focused on goodness is essential for receiving divine grace.

Understanding Grace and Salvation

The Concept of Grace

The speaker discusses the difference in their life after gaining a clear definition of grace, emphasizing that grace is given freely despite salvation coming at a price.

They highlight the paradox of grace being free while salvation requires laying down one's life, referencing scripture about losing one’s life to save it.

Early Church Teachings

The early church focused on training disciples rather than mere converts; individuals were expected to be students of truth over casual attendees.

There was an expectation for accountability within the church, contrasting modern attitudes where people resist judgment based on misinterpretations of scripture.

Accountability and Judgment

The speaker notes that apostles practiced judgment within the church to maintain holiness, countering contemporary beliefs that discourage any form of judgment.

They reference biblical examples (e.g., Ananias and Sapphira) where judgment was necessary for the integrity of the community.

Jesus' Approach to Numbers

The discussion shifts to how Jesus did not prioritize numbers in his ministry; he often reduced crowds when they sought superficial engagement.

Emphasizing quality over quantity, Jesus focused on genuine followers who were committed rather than those merely seeking miracles or benefits.

Personal Reflection on Grace

A personal anecdote illustrates a conversation with someone struggling with understanding grace; this person felt there was a different perspective among their group.

The speaker uses a metaphor involving job interviews to explain that while grace is unmerited favor, it also requires personal initiative and responsibility in response to God's calling.

Application of Grace in Life

They elaborate on how receiving grace should lead individuals to present themselves well before God, akin to preparing for a job interview.

Understanding Grace and Salvation

The Importance of Seriousness in Faith

Emphasizes the necessity of seriousness in one's faith journey; without effort and dedication, one may not receive the blessings intended by God.

Critiques a trend within large denominations that misinterpret grace as a license for immorality, suggesting an inclusive approach to various religions undermines core Christian beliefs.

The Nature of Salvation

Clarifies that while salvation is freely given, it comes with a cost; Jesus emphasizes that there is no other way to the Father except through Him.

Discusses the concept of unmerited favor (grace), referencing Noah's experience as an example of finding grace through relationship with God.

Misinterpretation of Grace

Highlights how some individuals dismiss the importance of studying scripture under the guise of being "under grace," which can lead to misunderstanding foundational teachings.

Points out that true understanding of grace requires knowledge of the Torah, asserting that grace cannot exist without acknowledging God's law.

The Role of Scripture in Understanding Christ

Notes Paul's teaching style focused on revealing Christ through the Torah and prophets rather than solely relying on New Testament texts.

Mentions Irenaeus' assertion that Old Testament laws prepared humanity for following Christ even before His arrival.

Commandments and Spiritual Blindness

References Matthew 19:17–18, where Jesus instructs adherence to commandments as essential for eternal life, emphasizing spiritual clarity over mere legalism.

Questions why many fail to recognize this straightforward message from Jesus about love and obedience to His commandments.

Prophetic Warnings About Spiritual Slumber

Warns about a predicted great falling away at the end times when many will be spiritually asleep, echoing biblical prophecies regarding church complacency.

Understanding Biblical Love and Salvation

The Nature of Love in Christianity

The speaker emphasizes that while Jesus embodies pure love, there is a misconception about love that does not align with biblical teachings. This false notion suggests that Jesus will overlook personal flaws without the need for repentance.

The early church taught that love involves a process of cleansing and belief in the word, leading to true salvation. It is not merely an acceptance of one's faults but requires active engagement in faith.

The Process of Salvation

The speaker references Peter's question about who can be saved, highlighting the biblical assertion that salvation is impossible for man alone but possible through God. This underscores the necessity of divine intervention in the salvation process.

There is a strong emphasis on striving for salvation rather than being complacent. Personal experiences shared by the speaker illustrate a commitment to pursuing spiritual growth and avoiding laziness in faith.

Transformation Through Revelation

True transformation comes from understanding God's character through scripture, which leads to inner cleansing rather than mere external changes. The focus should be on internal character development as opposed to superficial modifications.

Reference to Deuteronomy 29:29 indicates that revealed truths belong to believers, enabling them to perform works aligned with God's commandments. This revelation fosters character change and spiritual growth.

Inner Cleansing and Character Development

Personal anecdotes reveal struggles with anger and rage, emphasizing that true change occurs when one engages deeply with scripture rather than just following external advice or behavioral modifications.

The speaker discusses how genuine transformation happens naturally when one allows Christ's presence within them, illustrating the concept of dying to self so Christ may live through them.

Understanding Divine Knowledge

A clear explanation regarding the parable of the virgins highlights the importance of maintaining spiritual readiness (the oil representing divine knowledge). Those lacking this knowledge are at risk of missing out on eternal life.

Emphasis on acquiring deeper revelations about Jesus as essential for entering into eternal life signifies a call for believers to invest fully in their spiritual journey and relationship with God.

Conclusion