BACK IN 1967, there was a song composed by Isaac Hayes and David Porter, called “Soul Man”. It first became successful as a number 2 hit single by Atlantic Records soul duo Sam & Dave, which consisted of Samuel “Sam” Moore and David “Dave” Prater. Over 53 years later in 2019, “Soul Man” was selected for preservation in the National Record Registry.
The Blues Brothers? in 1980 American?musical?comedy film? directed by? John Landis, that stars?John Belushi? as 'Joliet' Jake Blues and? Dan Aykroyd?as his brother Elwood, characters developed from the recurring musical sketch "The Blues Brothers" on? NBC-variety series?Saturday Night Live.
There was a man many centuries ago that God anointed and appointed to preach not prosperity, not healing but the salvation of the very souls of mankind. He was the original “soul man” during that time preaching the gospel of salvation and getting people to repent for their sins.
John the Baptist was a very important person in the life of the Christian church with the mission given to him. First,
I.HIS MISSION OF REPENTANCE. Even during the time John the Baptist was born, there was something significant about him from day one.
The message from this man of God was to get the people ready during that time to get the people to repent and give up the sins they are harboring in their hearts, mind, and soul. He was preparing the way to the one who is to come and this was John the Baptist’s mission. The Bible teaches us how to ask for forgiveness of our sins and the importance of doing so. God wanted to give us clear instructions on what we need to do when asking for repentance. Acts 3:19 tells us to “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that He will forgive your sins”.
II.HIS MISSION TO BAPTISM. In the Baptist Church, Baptism is one of the main ordinances. This was one of John the Baptist missions as well as preaching the Gospel, the Good News to those who would hear him. 1 Peter 3:21 (NIV) tells us “...and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ”. Baptism does not save you; it only seals you, an outward demonstration to let others know that you are sealed with the Father in His Son’s Name Jesus.
III.HIS MISSION TO INTRODUCE JESUS. John spoke of one who will come after him to save humanity. It was at the Jordan River where Jesus made His entrance. He was like an MC introducing the next talent. This was the time to let the people know who will be this Savior that the prophets of old were talking about. It was at the Jordan River where the evidence of The One John was talking about. This is also where God sealed the deal; “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” John 3:17. That was the seal of improvement from The Almighty himself.
The human soul is that part of an eternal person—the part that lives on after the body dies and decays.
What does the Bible say about souls? Proverbs 11:30 (ESV) tells us “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise”. Psalm 121:7 tells us,” The Lord will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul.”
II.HIS MISSION TO BAPTISM. In the Baptist Church, Baptism is one of the main ordinances. This was one of John the Baptist missions as well as preaching the Gospel, the Good News to those who would hear him. 1 Peter 3:21 (NIV) tells us “...and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ”. Baptism does not save you; it only seals you, an outward demonstration to let others know that you are sealed with the Father in His Son’s Name Jesus.
III.HIS MISSION TO INTRODUCE JESUS. John spoke of one who will come after him to save humanity. It was at the Jordan River where Jesus made His entrance. He was like an MC introducing the next talent. This was the time to let the people know who will be this Savior that the prophets of old were talking about. It was at the Jordan River where the evidence of The One John was talking about. This is also where God sealed the deal; “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” John 3:17. That was the seal of improvement from The Almighty himself.
The human soul is that part of a person that is eternal—the part that lives on after the body dies and decays.
What does the Bible say about souls? Proverbs 11:30 (ESV) tells us “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and whoever captures souls is wise”. Psalm 121:7 tells us,” The Lord will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul.”
There’s a story I heard about the late rock legend Richard Wayne Penniman also known as “Little Richard”. There is one story, and probably had different versions of it, that Little Richard suddenly renewed his commitment to God. This, we're led to believe, happened while he was aboard the Stockton ferry.
A key part of the yarn is that, in declaring his faith, Little Richard threw his rings into Newcastle Harbour. It should be said that this story has taken on mythic proportions.
Now, are you searching for true meaning in your life? Does something seem missing or some kind of void in your life? Some people try to find satisfaction in houses, lands, money and even through other people.
Your soul is at stake. Mark 8:36 ESV / tells us that
“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”
Your soul is at stake so, think about this question, if you should die this minute, later today or tonight, where would your soul be in eternality?
Like John the Baptist, I am calling the sinners to repentance and for you to be saved through Jesus Christ. Do it now before it’s too late. Amen.
