Did Jesus Teach Water Baptism Saves? (Part 1)
When we consider what the Lord Jesus himself taught it becomes very clear that salvation comes by believing in him, and not by a ritual involving water.
Explore Messianic Feast and Baptism insights from T. Alex Tennent, offering deeper understanding of scriptural truth and early Church history. Read More Articles »
When we consider what the Lord Jesus himself taught it becomes very clear that salvation comes by believing in him, and not by a ritual involving water.
Is one-pastor rule really biblical? Learn how the early church functioned and what Scripture teaches about leadership, elders, and the role of pastors.
When we consider the scriptures from within the first-century Jewish idioms, is it the water baptism or the Spirit baptism that is required?
Read what other's have to say about The Messianic Feast and The Messiah's Baptism by T. Alex Tennent. Read More Reviews »
A Scholarly Addition to Christian and Jewish Books
The author is not only skilled in piecing together his facts but also creates a premise on which he solidly stands. You will learn more than information about the Messianic Feast—you will gain a wealth of insight into the Bible, both Old and New Testaments.
Well done!!!!
There are so many things your book inspired me to see, I hardly know where to begin to comment on them. So please bear with me if I seem all over the place!
For a start, I found The Messianic Feast to be the most overall enlightening book I’ve ever read—second only to the Bible. I’ve read it through about three times, with certain chapters many more. It is heavily red-lined and starred! Many of the subjects you covered were already being investigated by me, but some were new, or provided missing pieces I needed for better understanding.
About six years ago, I began to pray diligently for God to reveal and lead me into more truth—no matter where it took me. He has done that in a big way! And your book has played a significant part in that. One of the areas I really wanted to understand was just who Jesus was and what role he played in the Father’s overall plan. As with you, I don’t believe he pre-existed before being begotten in Mary by the Father’s Spirit.
Your explanation of “logos” in John 1 made it so clear. Many have attributed so much of the Old Testament references to “YHWH” as being Jesus. I believe all the mentions of YHWH refer to the Father. The misinterpretation of logos has been the basis for much of that misunderstanding.
Another eye-opening subject was how the breaking of bread refers to spiritual fellowship within the body of believers. This was totally new to me. Course 12 is one of my favorite chapters—preparing us for future events and presenting the wonderful transformation that awaits us.
Ever since I read your book the first time, I intended to write and tell you what an impact it had on me—but I kept putting it off, as I wasn’t sure how to express it adequately. And each time I read it, I absorbed more. This letter might not be doing it either, but I hope you will sense what an inspiration and revelation it has been to my spiritual life. And I thank you for that.
I could cite so many more examples of enlightenment from your book, but this letter is getting long enough!
I watched your IPPY award interview and so enjoyed seeing you “in person.” You seem like a humble, sincere man. Thank you for your quest for truth, your diligence in all of your research, and your willingness to step out of the box of traditional Christianity and share your findings. I hope many will read and respond to what you wrote.
With warm regards,
Marcia E.
I am astounded by this book. I had to search for the right word. I recommend you read it slowly to ponder and digest. Take the time to read all of the scripture references. It’s tempting to look ahead, but I recommend you try to grasp each concept and let the revelation sink in. You will want to savor each course, ponder and digest, and then the truth will convince you.
The author has done such a thorough job of research on the topic of “communion,” a favorite ritual common in the church. He also touches on several other topics and drives home his points using simple logic.
I have the feeling there are many, many empty traditions we do as believers that are so not what He ever intended, even down to cornerstones of the faith that are taken for granted. This drives our behavior as believers and can often lead us into error. The legalism from the misinterpretation can cause so much pain and division and must make God a little crazy at times—and most likely sad.
I want to challenge my own belief system and stay open to these kinds of revelation (test and try them). I found the quote by Schopenhauer on page 472 to be especially applicable: “All truth passes through three stages: First, it is ridiculed; Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as self-evident.”
I bought a book from the author’s website to send to a friend of mine who will love it for its thinking outside the box, knowledge of the Catholic Church’s influence (he grew up Catholic), and love for and understanding of Jewish culture. I know he will see the truth in it.
I honestly believe God wants this truth to be known, even if people are resistant and fearful of change. I often keep my mouth shut even though I feel I may have new revelation on something, for fear of the ridicule or opposition.
Thank you, T. Alex Tennent, for putting into words things I knew were right experientially or otherwise. Thank you for saying it out loud (rather, writing it :), when others are too afraid to rock the boat.