A comprehensive study on WATER BAPTISM.

 

A Jewish poet named Haim Nachman Bialik said, “He who reads the Bible in translation is like kissing your new bride through a veil.”

The poet is right on target. I included his remark to alert the reader to the fact that we will be dissecting several Greek words and prepositions in this chapter to better comprehend and support what I am attempting to say.

The reader should anticipate encountering repeated verses, as the author found it necessary to emphasize the core of the issue.

"Is Our Understanding of Water Baptism Misguided?"                                       

This ritual may not appear significant to many as it is often seen as a mere tradition. I too viewed baptism as a mere symbol according to the church’s teachings. However, thankfully, God granted me the ability to investigate further, and as I received enlightenment from the Lord, my viewpoint changed, and I now acknowledge its deep importance.

To help readers grasp the truth of God’s word, the author urges them to read the text with an open mind, devoid of bias, and with a focus on Christ. Note that the references in this article are from the King James Version, and alternative versions might not align with my points.

Before proceeding, I must clarify some key points regarding the significance and intent of water baptism.

Many denominations have failed to grasp or have overlooked a crucial aspect of baptism, which is a serious issue that has to be addressed. The issue is that one faction asserts that it is necessary to baptize individuals in the name of Jesus, while another insists on following Jesus’ command to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Why is the polarity so strong? Does the meaning change in either of the contexts? What leads people to believe that the two have distinct meanings or outcomes? One rejects the triune formula, the other rejects the name. Some even question the validity of the text itself, Matthew 28:19, from which the triune formula is derived. We’ll talk about that as well.

What I understood is that while each side has a valid point, they have overlooked the crucial information that unites them into one ultimate conclusion. Let’s ask ourselves a few questions.

• What is the ONE WAY to come to the Father?
• By what NAME are we granted the right to be declared righteous?
• Whose NAME is to be proclaimed to all the world?
• Through WHOM do we receive remission of sins?
• Through faith in whose NAME are we made complete or reconciled?
• In whom should we believe as Christ so that we may have life through that NAME?
• Which NAME strikes fear into the devils and brings deliverance and salvation to those who call upon it?
• What NAME should one confess to be saved?
• Whose NAME did God highly exalt?
• What is the one NAME given among men under heaven, whereby we must be saved?
• After what NAME is the ecclesia of God named?
• What NAME should we be identified with and conform to?
• Into what NAME should one be baptized?
• In whose death, burial, and resurrection should we be planted or participate?

1. The Scripture is clear: It is through believing that JESUS IS THE CHRIST AND LORD and having faith IN HIS NAME and being baptized INTO that name, redeems a soul – Matthew 12:21; John 14:6/20:31; Acts 2:36/3:16/ 4:12/10:43; Romans 6:3/9:17/10:9; Galatians 3:27.                                                                                                                                                            The rulers, and elders, and scribes, and the kindred of the high priest asked, By WHAT POWER (Dunamis – doo’-nam-is), or BY WHAT NAME (Onoma – on’-om-ah), have ye done this? Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth – Acts 4:5-10. Keep in mind that the term “onoma,” signifying “name,” is utilized in reference to the name, rather than the term “exousia,” which conveys “authority.”

The rulers and elders were displeased when they heard THE NAME used to cast out devils and impart knowledge. They questioned, “Did we not tell you not to impart knowledge or do anything IN THAT NAME?” Acts 5:28           The apostles did not just exercise their authority in Christ but proclaiming the name of Christ was their primary duty; with the purpose that AT THE NAME OF JESUS every knee should bow, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth; and every tongue confess that JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, to the glory of God the Father. The preaching of Jesus Christ was their prime objective – Romans 16:25; 1 Corinthians 2:2/15:14; 2 Corinthians 1:19/11:4; Acts 3:20/4:2,10/5:42/8:35/ 17:18; Galatians 2:20.

The Lord commanded to Israel, “In all that I have said unto you, be circumspect: and make no mention of THE NAME of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth” – Exodus 23:13. How do heathens call on their idol gods? Or how do pagan people invoke their idols? The Pagans invoke their idols by addressing them by name, while we invoke the existence of the real God by approaching Jesus Christ, confessing His divinity and praising Him as God alone.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            How do we summon the true and living God? Do we approach Him, acknowledge Him as God and praise Him as God alone? No, we CALL UPON THE NAME of the Lord, which is Jesus Christ. It is the name of Jesus Christ that we exalt and preach, in whom dwells all the fullness of God bodily.

What did Prophet Elijah ask the prophets of Baal to do? He said, “CALL ON THE NAME of your gods, and I will CALL ON THE NAME of the Lord.” 1 Kings 18 The Lord God was the name given to that generation to call upon – Exodus 3:15; and that’s what Elijah invoked.

2. Faith IN THE NAME of Jesus Christ is the key to life’s answers. The confession of the mouth reveals devotion to an entity. The spirit of the revered entity dwelling within the devotee leads them to lionize that name. In other words, the expression of love through the mouth signifies dedication to something. The devoted person praises the name of the entity they admire due to the spirit residing within it – 1 Corinthians 12:3; John 8:44.  Jesus Christ of Nazareth destroyed the strong man – Matthew 12:29; Luke 11:21,22; he destroyed him that had the power of death, that is, the devil – Hebrews 2:14. And until that name is called, the opponent will not let go of a soul from his custody – Romans 10:13; Acts 4:12/22:16. That is where God’s power dwells – 1 Corinthians 1:24; Romans 1:16; Revelation 12:10. I will take the cup of salvation and CALL UPON THE NAME of the Lord – Psalm 116:13. God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ – Acts 2:36.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Should one call on that name for salvation and the forgiveness of sins? or Is it just about the authority of the name, which we must focus on alone, and that invoking the name holds no merit? – Acts 2:38/22:16; Romans 10:13. Is invoking a name truly meritless or should we direct our focus towards the authority that the name carries? The name holds authority and power, but it is only through using the name that we can access this power. In essence, applying the name releases God’s power. Invoking that name alone saves a soul from sin, the power of Satan, the curse of the law, the wrath of God, the evil world, the works of the flesh, and more.                                                                                                       Jesus said, and whatsoever ye shall ask IN MY NAME, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.                                                                                        As you can see, exalting the Son exalts God; faith in Jesus equates to faith in God – John 12:44. He that believes not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abides on him – John 3:36; He that believeth on him (Jesus Christ) is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed IN THE NAME of the only begotten Son of God – John 3:18; 1 John 5:9-12.

3. By whose name are we identified, and often gather? In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, we gather together – 1 Corinthians 5:4. In contrast to that, the kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together AGAINST the Lord and his Christ – Acts 4:26.

4. After whom is the church named? We must remember that the ecclesia is named after the one body, one bread, and we no longer regard ourselves as separate individuals but rather as a vital component of this entity, which is Christ – 1 Corinthians 10:17/12:12; 1 Peter 2:5. All the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called – Acts 15:17.

To whom do evil spirits surrender? Which name frightens them? Seeing Jesus, the devils cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? Art, thou come hither to torment us before the time – Matthew 8:29.

Jesus said, IN MY NAME shall they cast out devils – Mark 16:17. Is it referring to his authority? Authority is NOT power, and it is the power of the Spirit that believers receive when the Holy Ghost comes upon them. When Jesus said, “Behold, I give unto you POWER (exousia) to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy” (Luke 10:19), he was referring to the authority that comes from the Spirit, which is invoked through the name of Jesus Christ.

In general, “authority” and “power” are related concepts but have distinct meanings:

Authority: Refers to the right or permission to control, command, or make decisions. It is often associated with a position or role that gives someone the legitimacy to exercise control over others.

Power: Refers to the ability or capacity to influence or control the behaviour of others, often through force, coercion, persuasion, or other means. Power can be derived from various sources such as physical strength, wealth, knowledge, position, etc.

While authority is more focused on the legitimacy and right to control, power is more about the ability to influence or dominate others.

I want to use this example to show you how authority and power are different. Consider the United States and the United Nations, for example. United Nations is important for international cooperation and diplomacy, but it lacks the authority and power that the United States has on the world stage due to factors such as its economic strength, military capabilities, political influence, and cultural impact. The US can exert power through various means, including military force, economic sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and alliances.

So, can you release power without invoking the name of Jesus? A man of God stands in the authority of Christ; Peter had authority and he was aware of it, but did he just lift the lame man and say, walk? Peter said Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have, give I thee: IN THE NAME of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk – Acts 3:6,7. He not only used his authority in Christ but also invoked the highly exalted name that brings terror to the wicked world. This name carries the message that every knee must bow, whether in heaven, on earth, or under the earth – Philippians 2:9-11.

By invoking the name of Jesus, the minister releases power and authority that would bring wholeness. It frees the captive soul from the darkness of death. The apostles of the lamb represented Christ’s authority but that wasn’t enough, and Jesus said, “Tarry until ye be endued with power from on high” – Luke 24:49. They had ‘the Exousia’ or the authority but only after the day of Pentecost did, they receive ‘the Dunamis’ or power to perform miracles and to change lives. This phenomenon of “virtue” flowing out from within the minister is seen in Luke 6:19/8:46 and Mark 5:30, and even the shadow of Peter bore that power in Acts 5:15. They had both “Exousia” and “Dunamis”, but the name of Jesus had to be exerted. One who received the ‘Exousia’ is eligible to receive the ‘Dunamis’ also. The only criterion is that one should be born of God to access this power. As many as received him, to them gave he, power (exousia) to become the sons of God – John 1:12.

Standing in God’s authority, wielding His power and anointing to cast out demons, heal the sick, raise the dead, and comfort the broken-hearted, we could accomplish these feats without invoking Christ’s name. Merely saying, ‘be made whole’ or ‘come out’ or ‘arise’ suffices. However, we often invoke Christ’s name to showcase God’s glory, allowing others to witness and marvel at the miracles performed through Christ’s authority and the power of His Spirit. This practice ensures that no glory is claimed for us, with all honour directed to God through His name.

Unlike us, Jesus could just command because he was the authority himself – John 5:8; Luke 5:8,23.

If so, in baptism, to whom and by which name should a believer conform for sins to be washed away? These are the answers that we must establish from the start.

The purpose and significance of baptism is to establish our union with Christ; and to conform to his death, burial and resurrection. This is foundational. If we don’t know what we’re doing, there’s no real substance to what we follow.

While “Tevilah” in Hebrew and “Baptisma” in Greek “βάπτισμα”—both involve immersion in water for spiritual purposes, they may not carry the same inner meaning due to differences in religious and cultural contexts. “Tevilah” in Judaism is associated with ritual purity and cleansing, while “Baptisma” in Christianity symbolizes purification, initiation, and identification with the faith.

“Tevilah” the Hebrew word refers to ritual immersion in a body of water, often for purification or spiritual cleansing purposes. It is commonly practiced in Judaism for various reasons, such as conversion, preparation for marriage, or after certain types of impurity.

Water Baptism is a Christian sacrament that symbolizes purification and the washing away of sins.

• Be baptised, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16.
• For the remission of sins – Acts 2:38.
• That THROUGH HIS NAME whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins – Acts 10:43.
• The remission of past sins – Romans 3:25.

The question can arise: If baptism is only symbolic, why do it? Will declining it impact our relationship with God? Can we still have a relationship with God if we refuse this rite? Allow me to respond to it with a query. Why is a wedding ceremony or nuptials necessary if the Bible considers a man and a woman to be one flesh due to their sexual union? 1 Corinthians 6:16 What completes the partnership? If a physical union is sufficient to complete a relationship, then what purpose do these rites serve?

• Why is it necessary for a candidate for the presidency of a nation to take an oath of office?
• Why must an individual go through a series of legal procedures and swear allegiance before being granted citizenship of a country?
• Why is it important to take an oath or affirmation before assuming the responsibilities of an office, which is usually a position in the government or a religious organization?

Mere mortals don’t appreciate all these lawful conducts? And that is a fact. Who doesn’t want to migrate to a wealthy country and what stops people from entering freely to the zone they want to defect or emigrate? The law of a country stands in the way.

Many people don’t realize the importance of following legal norms and would choose to enter illegally. Who wouldn’t desire to relocate to a prosperous nation, and what hinders individuals from freely accessing the region they wish to leave or settle in? The country’s legislation serves as a barrier. One must adhere to the law of the land they wish to relocate to, whether they like it or not. Doesn’t it imply the existence of a universal, unseen force of law that was previously unknown in ancient times, except when under the rule of a monarch? Unlike today, one could easily sneak in or out of fortresses during that era – Acts 9:23-25.

Similarly, the kingdom of Christ also has its own set of laws that one must follow to enter, referred to as the doctrines of Christ. Water Baptism is one of the preliminary steps. But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you – Romans 6:17. To be translated into it, the first step is “to believe and be born of God”, and the second procedure is “be baptized” INTO Christ, which the water baptism represents for the remission of sins (that is to be born of water – John 3:5). In addition to physical birth, two distinct births are addressed here. One pertains to spiritual rebirth, and the other involves shedding the sinful nature and being made alive in Christ – Colossians 2:11-13. It is the induction ceremony into the person of Christ, and it is the Spirit of God that inducts the believing and obedient soul into the spiritual body of Christ. It is becoming a new creature in Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15; The transformation will be so profound that the individual’s past and present will appear incongruent. The change will be so extreme that the person, whose history no longer aligns with their current state, will be unrecognizable.

Few examples:

• After God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power – Acts 10:38; and he knowing (eido) that he came from the Father and went back to Him – John 13:3; and went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him – Acts 10:38, seeing this the Jew murmured, ‘Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven? John 6:42.
• The Jews answered him, saying, for a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, make thyself God – John 10:33. They could not identify Jesus as Christ and they said, ‘we know this man whence he is’ – John 7:27.
• 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. And beholding the man, which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it – Acts 4:13,14.

People often question when someone undergoes a transformation, wondering how the person who was known to be someone’s son and had a certain identity is now displaying a unique persona. They often question the transformation when they know their background and history. They wonder how the person’s nature could have changed. They wonder how someone with a different nature can preach, prophesy, and heal others.

Can we avoid or bypass this process and not undergo the rite of baptism due to our dislike or aversion to it? Recognize this as a set standard set by the Master of the house for all who would approach him must adhere to – Matthew 3:14,15. Christ gave us a model that we should emulate – 1 Peter 2:21.

Unlike obtaining earthly citizenship, entering “the kingdom of Christ” is a spiritual journey that surpasses human understanding. It is the Spirit that guides all the processes. By having faith in God’s work and in the blood of Christ, one receives the inheritance of God’s kingdom – Colossians 2:12; 1 Corinthians 12:6; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 11:28; Revelation 1:5. The process is activated and sustained by the law of faith – Romans 3:27. Entering this kingdom without exercising faith, which the Lord credits/imputes, is impossible – Hebrews 11; 2 Peter 1:1; Hebrews 12:2; Galatians 3:23. And to obtain like precious faith – 2 Peter 1:1, one must be born of God –  John 1:12-13/3:3,6,7; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 4:7/5:1,4

Understand that the world we inhabit is not just made up of ordinary humans, but also includes celestial beings, spiritual entities (both good and evil), rulers, authorities of darkness, and various other beings beyond our awareness – Colossians 1:16. The book of Daniel reveals that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men and assigns an angel to every ruler. And the removal of those angels leads to the demise of that realm or kingdom – Daniel 4:17,25,32; 10:13,20. Each nation has a spiritual ruler behind its leader. The great prince representing Israel Michael, ensures the nation’s security. However, when he leaves his position, trouble arises – Daniel 10:13, 21/12:1; Psalms 121:4.

The Bible explains the importance of acknowledging the presence of spiritual beings in our world –1 Corinthians 11:10; Hebrews 1:6,14/13:2. The physical is sustained by the spiritual. The spirit animates the physical body, and when it departs, the body decays. This spiritual influence extends to all living things and the surrounding matter and space. The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life – Job 33:4; the breath of our nostrils is the anointed (mashiyach) of the Lord – Lamentations 4:20. It is JESUS CHRIST, the Messiah who upholds all things by the word of His power – Hebrews 1:3. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth,  and he giveth to all life and breath, and all things – Acts 17:24,25.

The universe follows a code of conduct. Humans were once under heavenly order, but the fall allowed a wicked spiritual agency to influence the world, resulting in the proliferation of idols, temples, profanity, and various other forms of unrighteousness.

What entities govern this realm? Who is behind the temples and their rules? Wicked spirits and fallen angels empower temples and their ordinances, posing as gods and diverting the worship due unto God. The ordinances are enforced and anyone unwilling to obey will not be spared – Daniel 3.

Even regarding the crucifixion of the Son of God, it is said that the rulers of this world (archon – Chief rulers) did not know who they were crucifying: for if they had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory – 1 Corinthians 2:8. The Bible speaks of the prince of the power of the air, the spirit working in disobedient people – Ephesians 2:2; and it also states that the whole world is under the power/lap of wickedness – 1 John 5:19.

What is the message behind it all? Why did Jesus come? Was it just to redeem us from the power of sin? According to 1 John 3:8, the Son of God came to destroy the devil’s works and free man’s souls from the dominion of darkness. It’s a battle between light and darkness – Revelation 12:7,8.

Everything we do leaves a spiritual trail, as every deed is done according to an established doctrine. The outcome is determined by the doctrine we submit to, whether it be godly or evil precepts. Both kingdoms influence human souls, and a person’s choice of doctrine determines the outcome of their actions. Every action taken by a person is a result of spiritual influence. The book of James explains the opposing wisdom we are exposed to and its effects.

Therefore, even as believers we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that each may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad – 2 Corinthians 5:10.

Marriage is a concept established by God, much like all other civilised ideals. When a man and a woman get married and have their union officially recognised, it is considered credible. Conversely, acts such as fornication and lechery go against the teachings of the Bible. Before the spread of God’s word, many civilizations were considered primitive or uncivilized. The arrival of Christ and the dissemination of His teachings transformed the world.

Consequently, when carried out with a sincere heart, baptism is one of these virtues that offers its benefits when followed wholeheartedly. The act of baptism, when done with a pure heart, unlocks its beneficial qualities. A pure heart does not refer to the goodness of our hearts or a heart free of sinful nature, but rather an imputed virtue due to the presence of Christ within – Romans 4:6,11,22/5:17-19; James 2:23. In other words, Christ’s presence within us makes purity an imputed virtue rather than a reflection of our own goodness.

It shows the power at play. It is a testament to the forces at work. Can captives be freed without the knowledge of the kingdom’s ruler, Pharaoh or Satan, from whose power and hands we are rescued? The power dynamics are clear in this public ceremony. It serves as a public demonstration of a soul exchange. There is a trade happening, a slave being transferred from one master to another (from the hand of the Pharaoh to the Saviour of the world). By following this ritual, you declare your loyalty and surrender your ownership to the Lord and Christ Jesus. For you are bought with a price – 1 Corinthians 6:20/7:22,23.

Christ doesn’t need permission to save a soul or ask the devil to release a soul from his custody. Like Judge Samson, he goes through the enemy’s camp and annihilates everything on his path by the Spirit of God. That’s how He operates, like a tempest that spares nothing in its path. All (the Babylonian powers) that took them captives held them fast; they refused to let them go – Jeremiah 50:33; but our Redeemer is strong; the Lord of hosts is his name: he shall thoroughly plead their cause, that he may give rest to the land, and disquiet the inhabitants of Babylon – Jeremiah 50:34.

For the Lord your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regards not persons, nor taketh reward – Deuteronomy 10:17. He came to earth and took it by force – Matthew 11:12; he entered the strong man’s house, bound him and spoiled his house – Matthew 1:29; Mark 3:27; Luke 11:21,22. Jesus Christ blotted out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it – Colossians 2:14,15. Christ destroyed (katargeo – to render entirely idle/useless) him that had the power of death, that is, the devil – Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 1:18/ 12:10. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil – 1 John 3:8.

Water Baptism is your agreement to unite with Christ (in his death, burial, and resurrection), allowing the invisible forces of light to watch over you – Psalms 91:11; 1 Timothy 5:21; Hebrews 1:14/12:22/13:2; 1 Corinthians 11:10. It serves as your authorization and passport to your new identity and heavenly citizenship. Therefore, baptism now saves us in this respect.

Baptism is considered a doctrine of Christ in Christianity. It is a sacrament or ritual that symbolizes purification, INITIATION into the faith, and spiritual rebirth. Did not Jesus Christ give the command to his apostles to baptize others in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost?

Faith requires corresponding works to inherit the promised liberty and abundant life from Jesus by embracing the doctrine of Christ from the heart – Romans 6:17. Doctrines (principles) have the power to save us. The entrance of God’s words gives light – Psalm 119:130; we shall know the truth and the truth shall make us free – John 8:32; Colossians 3:16; When we act upon the implanted word, it frees our souls from Satan’s power and depravity. – James 1:21,22.

Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this, thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear thee – 1 Timothy 4:16. You cannot contrive the godliness by mere faith; faith must drive us toward the doctrines which are according to godliness – 1 Timothy 6:3. Faith and obedience are like hand and glove. Without such works (corresponding action), faith is dead (νεκρός – nekros – lifeless) – James 2:18,20,26.

1 John 5:5-13 expresses the real gospel, the soul and substance of the New Testament, and the purpose of the sacraments. What it conveys is that everything in this dispensation must center around Jesus Christ, as it is the will of God the Father.

The purpose of baptism remains shrouded if we do not know into whom one must be baptized; it remains unclear without knowing who one must be baptized, into – Romans 6:3; Galatians 3:27. It is the saviour into whom one must be baptized – Psalms 77:20; Isaiah 63:12; 1 Corinthians 10:2. The prophets, kings, and priests of the Old Testament were seen as a prefiguration of the Messiah, through whom God delivered and preserved His people. So, they were all baptized unto Moses – 1 Corinthians 10:2. We conform to the person of Christ through baptism. By obeying the doctrine from the heart – Romans 6:17, the Spirit of God grafts us into the spiritual body of Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:12,13.

If one was baptized unto Moses, a figure of Christ – 1 Corinthians 10:2; when the antitype arrived, does it not suggest that one should be baptized INTO Christ for the forgiveness of sin, as Christ represents our righteousness and peace? It is a baptism (participation) INTO Christ – Galatians 3:27; Have you not realized that those of us who were baptized INTO Jesus Christ (sharing in the likeness of his death, burial, resurrection, and suffering) were baptized into His death? – Romans 6:3.

In the Corinthians church, they had a dispute over whose name one must be aligned to. Some said, I am of Paul; others, I of Apollos; and some I of Cephas; and some I of Christ. Apostle Paul intervened by the Spirit of Christ and made it clear who was crucified for them or in whose name they were baptized INTO – 1 Corinthians 6:11-13

In the Corinthian church, there was a dispute over which leader’s name to align with. Some said they followed Paul, others Apollos, some Cephas, and some Christ. Apostle Paul intervened by the Spirit of Christ and clarified who was crucified for them and in whose name, they were baptized – 1 Corinthians 6:11-13.

As far as we know, it was to the apostle Peter that Jesus Christ gave the “keys of the kingdom”. If the keys aren’t meant to be used to open something, what purpose does it serve? And Peter would know how and when to be used after the Holy Ghost comes upon them, who is the TEACHER according to the Messiah – John 14:26.

As far as we know, Jesus Christ gave the “keys of the kingdom” to the apostle Peter. If the keys aren’t meant for opening something, what purpose do they serve? Peter would understand how and when to use the keys after the Holy Ghost, who is the TEACHER as per the Messiah in John 14:26, comes upon them.

Jesus Christ gave the “keys of the kingdom” to the apostle Peter. The purpose of the keys is to open something, and Peter would know how and when to use them after the Holy Ghost comes upon them, who is the TEACHER who will GUIDE them into ALL TRUTH (aletheia) according to the Messiah – John 14:26/16:13.

The Greek word used for ‘TRUTH’ is “Aletheia” which means, Verity. And verity is the antonym of truth. This verity will make us free – John 8:32, but this is what many content with – 2 Timothy 3:8. Truth can be subject to change depending on one’s viewpoint, understanding, or circumstances, whereas verity denotes the recognized or intended truth. Verity is often employed to signify a more definitive or absolute truth.

In other words, while “truth” can vary and be subjective depending on perspectives or circumstances, “verity” is often used to denote an established or objective truth. Verity is associated with a sense of certainty and reliability, representing a truth that is considered to be universally true or established. 

Verity is a term that refers to the quality or state of being true or accurate. It is often used in the context of knowledge, belief, or information. Verity represents the comprehension that leads to truth. You can interpret “Logos” as representing the concept of truth, especially in a philosophical or theological context where it signifies a principle of order and knowledge (through which God reveals His will, teachings, and truths to humanity).

On the other hand, “verity” can be seen as illuminated truth, suggesting a truth that is clear, established, and perhaps even spiritually or intellectually enlightened. This interpretation aligns with the idea that “verity” conveys a sense of certainty and reliability in representing truth.

It was the ‘logos’ that Jesus gave to his disciples, and he instructed them to tarry to receive the eternal Spirit who would GUIDE them into the whole truth, which is verity. He the Spirit will implant it in your mind, which is the establishment of the new covenant – Hebrews 8:10/10:16. And when the Spirit of truth (aletheia – verity) comes, He shall glorify Jesus: he shall not speak of himself; for he shall receive of Jesus, and shall shew it unto them – John 16:14.

Can we truly take the gospels at face value since most of Jesus’ words were in parables? Does it necessitate the Spirit of Christ to come and enlighten the eyes of our hearts (open the eyes of our understanding – Acts 26:18; Ephesians 1:18) to comprehend what was said? If what Jesus spoke was sufficient, why does the Spirit of God need to come to interpret things for us? Jesus brought the truth as he is the truth and cannot lie. What he spoke was the truth, but it came with its pod, so to speak and only the Spirit of Christ can decipher what the Lord intends; in other words, His words came with a deeper meaning that only the Spirit of Christ can explicate.

Jesus said, these things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time comes when I shall no longer speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father – John 16:25. When he, the Spirit of truth, is come (the day of Pentecost), he will guide you into all (whole) truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak – John 16:13. That day, all the parables and riddles spoken by Jesus became clear to the apostles. The Spirit of God enlightened their minds. The mystery of God, the Father, and Christ, which had been kept secret since the beginning of the world, was disclosed to the holy apostles for the first time following the descent of the Spirit – 1 Corinthians 2:7,10; Romans 16:25,26; Ephesians 3:4,9; Colossians 1:27/2:2/4:3. Until then the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest – Hebrews 9:8.

The Spirit of truth would be poured upon all flesh only after the resurrection of Christ. His glorification must precede the descent of the Spirit, without which it wouldn’t be possible. The obedience of Christ unto death paved the way for our justification unto life. And it is the descent of the Spirit upon us that brings this life, which Christ hath promised into reality – John 10:10. Without the Spirit of God, it wouldn’t be possible. For the Spirit must revive or quicken us before we can even spell Jesus. And it is the Spirit that bears witness because the Spirit is truth – 1 John 5:6.

Therefore, we cannot simply take a verse from the gospels and make a final judgment. The teachings that Jesus provided are explained in the epistles. This is where the practical truth is found. Otherwise, what did the sufferings of the holy apostles signify? They sacrificed their lives to reveal the engrafted word – James 1:21. “Engrafted word” (emphutos – implanted) or embedded word of God within a person’s heart or soul. It signifies the idea of internalizing and living out the teachings and principles of God’s word. It is a revelatory experiential knowledge that the Spirit of God imparts, which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God – Ephesians 3:3-5,10/5:32; Colossians 1:24-27/4:3; 1 Peter 1:12.

They possessed the truth, but their comprehension truly blossomed only after the day of Pentecost when they received the Holy Ghost. Jesus had instructed them to baptize IN THE NAME OF the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost—they had been given the truth, but it required the Holy Ghost to illuminate their understanding and grasp its full meaning. This is precisely what the apostles of the lamb followed.

They baptised all who believed IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, in whom the fulness of God dwells – Colossians 1:19/2:9; 1 John 5:20. While Jesus was on earth, the Holy Ghost was not yet been given to them – John 7:39; because the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest – Hebrews 9:8.

Truth is when we can say that it is true or false, the greater truth, the lesser truth. Verity is something that is unshakable. We want to attain it. Each degree toward attainment of verity can be called truth – Michael Laitman.

So, what did Peter do? On the day of Pentecost when they were filled with the Holy Ghost, Peter began unravelling things in the spirit.

To understand the context and the meaning of what is being said, it is vital to understand the prepositions within that language.

In Greek, “en” (ἐν) is commonly translated as “in” and is used to denote a state of being within something or to indicate a location or position.

On the other hand, “eis” (εἰς) is typically translated as “into” and is used to indicate movement towards a specific destination or goal. It implies a sense of direction or purposeful movement into something.

“en” (ἐν) and “eis” (εἰς) are indeed Greek prepositions that play a significant role in Greek grammar. They are used to indicate relationships between words, show location or direction, and contribute to the overall meaning of a sentence.

The Greek preposition “epi” (ἐπί) is commonly translated as “on,” “upon,” “over,” or “at.” It is used to indicate the location, direction, or the object of an action in various contexts.

Paul asked, UNTO (eis) what then were ye baptized? (Unto – “to” or “towards somebody or something – Archaic or Poetic: Up to; indicates a motion towards a thing and then stopping at it) Acts 19:3. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to all who believes – Romans 10:4.

There are two categories depicted. John’s Baptism, a baptism of repentance – Acts 19:3,4, and in the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 19:5; signifying putting on Christ. One for the Jews, during Christ’s earthly presence when the law was in effect; and the other, following Christ’s resurrection when the New Testament or the new and living way was revealed.

The criterion is to “believe wholeheartedly that Jesus Christ is the Son of God” – Acts 8:37; that he is both Lord and Christ – Acts 2:36; and the life of God is in His Son Jesus – 1 John 5:9-12. The person of Jesus Christ, the name of the Godhead, is the highly exalted name by which one must be saved and without invoking that name what purpose does baptism serve? Why would you not want or why one would be hesitant to invoke that name while administering this rite? That name alone brings terror to the dark world.

If you believe that only the Son is associated with the name of Jesus Christ and the Father has no part in it, then you are denying the truth that the Father and the Son are one, as stated by the Spirit of truth. The persons of the Godhead cannot be separated, as they are of one essence – 1 John 5:7; John 10:30/14:9/17:6; Isaiah 9:6

And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one. – 1 John 5:8. What do they agree on? They agree on the record that God gave of His Son, and ye may believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life – 1 John 5:8-13. Just as the Godhead is united, the Spirit, water, and blood of Jesus also agree as one. Can we remove one of the three and expect everything to be, okay?

In 1 John 5:8 the Greek word used for ‘water’ is ‘hydor’ (it means, into the water to sanctify and cleanse with the washing of water as mentioned in Ephesians 5:26); it has a direct relation to water baptism’ as ‘hydatos’ (straightway coming up out of the water – Mark 1:10; Acts 8:39; 1 John 5:6); to mean, “be baptized and wash away thy sins (for the remission of sins) – Acts 2:38/22:16. The Spirit, water, and blood are said to agree as one, giving equal merit to the rite of baptism as the Spirit and the blood of Christ.

Hydor (ὕδωρ): This term refers to “water” in a general sense. It is the common Greek word for water and is used to describe water as a substance or element. For example, in scientific contexts or everyday language, “hydor” is used to denote water as a liquid or H2O.

Hydatos (ὑδάτος): This term is a genitive form of “hydor” and is used to indicate possession or association. It can be translated as “of water” or “from water.” The use of “hydatos” implies a relationship with water or an attribute related to water.

• They were baptized in (eis – into) the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 8:16.
• They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 19:5.
• Peter commanded them to be baptized in (en – in) the name of the Lord – Acts 10:48.

Be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON (epikaleomai – invoking) the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16. The Greek word “epikaleomai” (ἐπικαλέομαι) translates to “to call upon,” “to invoke,” or “to appeal to.” It is often used in the context of CALLING UPON a higher power, deity, or authority for help, support, or guidance. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12; Therefore, the way to make amends with God is to use the name of the Lord.

• For whosoever shall CALL UPON the name of the Lord shall be saved – Romans 10:13.
• When Philip the apostle preached “the name of Jesus Christ”, they were baptized, both men and women – Acts 8:12.
• Be baptized every one of you in (epi – “on,” “upon,” “over,” or “at) the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins – Acts 2:38.

Now let’s address the trinitarian formula, which the majority contend with. Jesus commanded, “Baptise them in the NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” – Matthew 28:19. When asked to type your father’s name in an application, would you enter the name or write “father”? “Son” is not a name, it refers to a male child, while “father” refers to a male parent. It’s that straightforward. The name of God is Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life – 1 John 5:20; Isaiah 9:6; Acts 2:39; Matthew 1:23; 1 Timothy 3:16. And that’s the one name, which is or strong tower into which we must run and be saved – Proverbs 18:10.

Attempting to assign various names to the Godhead results in dividing the three persons of the Triune God, creating a division within the Godhead, and portraying them as THREE instead of One: contradicting the portrayal of oneness in the Scriptures. The truth is that the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost are ONE – 1 John 5:7. Jesus took upon the Father’s name, they are of one essence. God highly exalted that name, so every knee should bow at Jesus’ name, in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. Every tongue should confess Jesus Christ is Lord, to (eis) the glory of God the Father – Philippians 2:10,11.

Jesus instructed the apostles to pray in the same manner, “Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be THY NAME.” Matthew 6:9; Luke 11:2 Which name did God hallow; which name did God highly exalt? When King Solomon built the House of God, what did the Lord say to him? “I have hallowed this house, which you have built, to put MY NAME there forever.” 1 Kings 9:3 Did Jesus not come and put his name there forever? The spiritual organism named after God is the house of God, called by the name of Christ. This is mentioned in 1 Corinthians 10:16,17/12:12; Amos 9:12; Acts 15:17; 1 Peter 2:5; and Hebrews 10:21.

Seeing the Son is akin to seeing the Father as well. I will elaborate on this as we delve deeper. His name is Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us – Matthew 1:23. Denying the name of Jesus Christ is denying the Father itself – Matthew 10:33.

Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? Ephesians 4:8-10 Who hath gathered the wind in his fists? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the ends of the earth? WHAT IS HIS NAME, and WHAT IS HIS SON’S NAME, if thou canst tell? – Proverbs 30:4. His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6. This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13. Which is why the Father pronounced, that at this dispensation all the fulness of the Godhead bodily dwells in Christ – Colossians 1:19/2:9. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet; then he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power; And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all – 1 Corinthians 15:24-28.

Let’s now examine what baptism represents.

& Is baptism salvific? If yes, how does it save?

The LIKE FIGURE whereunto even baptism doth also NOW SAVE US* (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer/ the response/ the reaction of a good conscience toward God – Having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience – Hebrews 10:22 – the blood of Christ purged our conscience from dead works TO SERVE the living God – Hebrews 9:14) *by the resurrection of Jesus Christ – 1 Peter 3:21.

“And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing” – Isaiah 10:27. Who was anointed by God?  God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power – Acts 4:27/10:38. And Christ (the anointed one) is the one who sets the captives free. Anointing effectively relieves a sinner of their burden of sin, marking the initial step towards liberation (by the righteousness of one the FREE GIFT came upon all men unto justification of life – Romans 5:18; the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ – Romans 5:17; according to GOD’S MERCY, he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost – Titus 3:5; Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace – Luke 1:78).

The worshippers once purged should have no more conscience of sins – Hebrews 10:2. But in the Old Testament era, despite offering the blood of bulls and goats, sins were still remembered every year. Those sacrifices could not eliminate the burden of sin – Hebrews 10:2-4. We have come to Jesus, the mediator of the new covenant, and to his precious blood that speaks better things than Abel’s. The blood of Christ, a spotless lamb, purges even the vilest sinner’s conscience and removes every stain – Hebrews 12:24; 1 Peter 1:19.

The understanding that forgiveness is granted brings comfort to those with a cleansed conscience, allowing them to live a renewed life, sanctified for us, through the veil, which is His flesh – Romans 6:4; Hebrews 10:20. Unlike the bygone era, we can taste and see that the Lord is good – Psalms 34:8. It is experiential knowledge that a soul inherits. Christianity is a faith that can be felt with the heart and not merely a set of religious beliefs and doctrines to adhere to. It is entering into God’s rest – Hebrews 4:1-11. It is inheriting the peace of God – John 14:27; Romans 15:13; Philippians 4:7. It is Righteousness, Peace and Joy in the Holy Ghost – Romans 14:17. It is receiving power to become sons of God/ heirs of God – John 1:12; Romans 8:17; Titus 3:7; Galatians 3:29/4:7.

Put simply, a guilt-free conscience provides solace in the assurance of sins being absolved, accomplished through the resurrection of Christ. Baptism acknowledges the reception of a clear conscience towards God, corresponding to being justified by the blood of the lamb through faith – Colossians 2:12.

He that believeth and is baptised SHALL BE SAVED – Mark 16:16; Acts 18:8. “What was I saved from?” This does not refer to the complete process of Salvation, but rather an immediate redemptive activity by the Holy Spirit. Before one can walk in freedom and newness of life, they must be saved from whatever is holding them down. These are the rudiments of the doctrine of Christ to which we are guided to adhere – Hebrews 6:1,2.

“Believing and Baptism” seem to function together harmoniously, as if they are two sides of a coin. It suggests that receiving water baptism as mandated by God’s Word is necessary for salvation or to be rescued and initiated into the Kingdom of Christ.

Let’s not confuse “Justification of life” as a gift from God – Romans 5:18 – for those to whom precious faith is imputed – 2 Peter 1:1; Galatians 3:23; Hebrews 12:2, with the expected response from a revived soul, which are works fitting for repentance – Acts 26:20, also a result of grace working within the heart. The presence of Christ within a person through the Spirit enables all of these things to be possible. Grace and Truth come to reside within the heart of man – John 1:17; Galatians 6:18; Philemon 1:25; 2 Timothy 4:22, and that same anointing which is the truth, shall abide within – 1 John 2:27.

Through the rite of baptism, those justified by faith complete the process of regeneration by conforming to Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. It is the consummation of the betrothal to Christ – 2 Corinthians 11:2; Romans 7:4. You see the importance of this ritual. It is essential to conform to his death, to be united in the likeness of his death, so that we may attain his resurrection life – Philippians 3:10; Romans 6:5. It signifies the crucifixion of our old self with Christ, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin – Romans 6:5,6. For he that is dead with Christ is freed from the power of sin – Romans 6:4,8,7-11; Colossians 2:20/3:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:16. He hath passed from death unto life – John 5:24. The Holy Ghost seals those who obey these doctrines from the heart – Ephesians 1:13; Romans 6:17.

Faith must come before all of these actions – Galatians 3:23; 2 Peter 1:1. Faith must enter the heart before the sinner can ever consider Jesus as the Saviour of the world. The Father must draw a soul to Christ – John 6:44. This is what occurs to the soul whose heart is opened by the Lord to receive the gospel; God must grant repentance; the goodness of God must lead the soul to repentance – Acts 11:18/16:14; Romans 2:4. A doomed sinner cannot conjure up faith; Jesus Christ is the author and finisher of our faith, period – Hebrews 12:2.

While “justification of life” is a component of the process of redemption, “shall be saved” refers to a person’s instant release from the grasp of Sin, Death, the curse of the Law, Satan, Darkness, the evil world and the such, which were his adversaries. It refers to an immediate salvation process—that is, God’s redemptive act that liberates and ushers the soul into the kingdom of Christ. It comprises the quickening of the spirit, the reviving of the will, which was previously unable to react to God’s call (to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not)– Roman 7:18 – KJV.

Isn’t it true that man would be lost forever if God didn’t SAVE him? If so, wouldn’t that imply that humanity is in a completely devoid state from which he is unable to escape and that, barring God’s intervention and redemption, we are doomed to eternal damnation? Given this scenario, where does our theology of “free will” fit in? Can’t you see why Ancient Israel failed? The “free will” of man was lost in Adam, and although every man has a sphere of will, it is always inclined towards the flesh and influenced by Satan.

Does the Scripture align with my postulation? It says, we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others – Ephesians 2:3; we were sometimes alienated and enemies in our mind by wicked works (being a part of the wild olive tree – Romans 11:24), yet now hath he reconciled – Colossians 1:21. His reconciliation brought us the freedom not by our choosing God. God commends his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us – Romans 5:8.

God, hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:18; when we were enemies, WE WERE RECONCILED TO GOD by the death of his Son – Romans 5:10. The Spirit of Truth says, “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” – John 15:16. Where is the boasting, then?

1. Know ye, not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 2 Corinthians 13:5 (By what law? By the law of faith – Romans 3:27; Christ dwells in our hearts by faith – Ephesians 3:17 – and this faith does not originate in man but comes from God – Romans 10:17; Galatians 3:23; 2 Peter 1:1).
2. Every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour – 1 Thessalonians 4:4.

• ✝️ Baptism and Salvation Baptism is not merely a physical act of washing away dirt or our carnal disposition, but rather a spiritual response to God through a clear conscience, which is the effect of having faith in the blood of Christ – Romans 3:25; Revelation 1:5. It is a symbol of the believer’s faith in Christ’s death and resurrection, and their commitment to follow him; to walk in newness of life – Romans 6:4.
• 💧 Water as Symbolism In the context of 1 Peter 3:21, water is used as a symbol of baptism. It represents the cleansing and renewing power of God’s grace (remission of sins that are past/ blotting out of sins – Acts 2:38/3:19,25), which enables believers to live with a clear conscience before him. It is a sign of our disavowal of the present evil world and its authority (spiritual Egypt and its king Pharaoh); but it is also our credence upon the new and living way, which Christ hath consecrated for us to walk in – Hebrews 10:20. In simple terms, it is a pledge of allegiance to the Lordship of Christ. It is signing up with the adoption process into the family of God – Romans 8:15,23/9:4; Galatians 4:5; Ephesians 1:5. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers’ hearts are transformed, making all things possible.

Note: Justification unto life is through believing only; it is a gift that is bestowed upon a person who gets drawn by the heavenly Father; that are ordained to eternal life; whom the Father foreknew  – Romans 5:18/8:29,30; John 6:44; Acts 13:48; Ephesians 1:5,11. The rites are the after-effect of your inward renewal. When they were pricked in their heart (the work of the Spirit in the heart precedes our obedience), and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? – Acts 2:37.

The like figure of what? What does the term “like figure” refer to? In the days of Noah, the ark was prepared, wherein a few, that is, eight souls were SAVED BY WATER – 1 Peter 3:20. “Water saves? Yes, it does.” It’s a figure of entering the ark of God, which is Christ. It saves us from what? Noah and his family were spared God’s wrath and kept safe when they entered the ark. It is the passing over of the angel of death. Seeing the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the Lord will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you – Exodus 12:23.

Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be A PROPITIATION through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of past sins, through the forbearance of God (the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ satisfied divine justice and reconciled humanity with God); To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. – Romans 3:24-26; John 3:36.

That’s what “propitiation” does. Propitiation means “to appease someone’s anger” – Propitiation is the sole means to assuage God’s wrath against sin. And Christ becoming our propitiation – 1 John 2:2/4:10; Romans 3:25, we have peace with God – Romans 5:1. It not only delivered us from the wrath of God but also freed us from the current evil world, death, sin, law, and the power of darkness and Satan. Having blotted out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us through the death on the cross – Colossians 2:14, the obstacles being taken out of the way we can now follow his command and approach God as sons of God.

Water Baptism is a public statement made to/before the world of whom you are parting ways and is not a rite that is done in secrecy. Not only humans but the spiritual principalities and powers of darkness witness our spiritual transition and our decisions done in the name of Jesus Christ.

If the name of Jesus is not into which he or she is baptized, it is a mockery of the name that is hallowed by God. The person who administers this rite must shake in his boots as he is performing a rite which must be done in great fear and reverence.

If you are so into the trinity formula, it is alright to say “in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost”, but you must not conclude with that statement as the name above every other name, by which we must be saved, that is the name of Jesus Christ is not broadcasted without which the rite of baptism is incomplete and deficient.

Why are we reluctant to employ that one name? Because the devils tremble hearing that name and must leave the person; all the works of Satan will be disarmed in that person when the name of Jesus is uttered. The apostle Peter to whom the keys of the kingdom – Matthew 16:19 – were given commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord – Acts 8:16/10:48/ 19:5,17. “Be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON THE NAME of the Lord” – Acts 22:16. I cried to Jesus, “Save me, a sinner”, and He saved me. As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me – Psalm 55:16; call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee – Psalm 50:15. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him) – Romans 10:12,13.

Shouldn’t one call upon the name of the Lord Jesus to be saved? In every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord – 1 Corinthians 1:2. And we got washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, by the Spirit of our God, when we thus call upon that highly exalted name – 1 Corinthians 6:11.

Even the vagabond, exorcists from the Jewish fold knew what to do to expel demons, they took upon them to call over the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 19:13. Seeing how the apostles do, they perceived that invoking the name of Jesus Christ will get the job done. Though they failed at it, at least they realized that that is where the power lies. The name of the Lord is A STRONG TOWER: the righteous runs into it and is safe – Proverbs 18:10.

Some argue that the name means, the authority that we stand in. That is true when it comes to our lives and our coming together and our labour in the Lord. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered – 1 Corinthians 5:4. But “call upon” is not the same as our spiritual stance.

We give thanks for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ – Ephesians 5:20. Yes, when we preach or prophesy or when we do, we do it standing in the authority of Christ – James 5:10; 2 Timothy 2:19; but we preach Jesus Christ – Romans 16:25; Acts 4:10/5:42/8:5,12/9:20/10:36/17:3/15:19/16:25; 1 Corinthians 1:23/15:12,14; 2 Corinthians 1:19/ 4:5; Ephesians 3:8; Philippians 1:15,16,18.

The apostles commanded in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (this is the authority in that name) – 2 Thessalonians 3:6. We pray and anoint the sick in the name of the Lord – James 5:14. The authority is deployed when we use the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. I have yet to see how we can deploy the authority without using the name.

Don’t we always employ that name in our prayers? That whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all IN THE NAME of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him – Colossians 3:17. That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in us and we in him – 2 Thessalonians 1:12.

The Pledge of Allegiance is a patriotic vow of loyalty to the cause we willingly uphold; it is a choice to promise to support something we strongly believe in. It shows a serious commitment to the beliefs and values we stand for. It is a formal event that marks the official entry of an individual into a new position, organization, or group. It typically involves a ceremony or ritual to welcome and recognize the new member. An induction ceremony often signifies the beginning of a new employee’s journey within an organization. It provides an opportunity for the employee to be introduced to the company’s culture, values, and expectations.

Here in this context, the entry is by the imputed faith and we are translated into the kingdom of Christ – Colossians 1:13; we receive power to become the sons of God – John 1:12; chosen to be heirs of the kingdom – James 2:5; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ – Romans 8:17; called to be saints – 1 Corinthians 1:2; fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God – Ephesians 2:19; as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ – 1 Peter 2:5; fitly framed together, built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit – Ephesians 2:21,22.

It is a new covenant that we enter, with God through Christ; and that association or identification with Christ will set us free from the power of Satan and will translate us from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of Christ – Galatians 1:4. It is the process of getting cut out of the olive tree, which is wild by nature, and being grafted contrary to nature into a good olive tree – Romans 11:24; it is the process of getting released from the power and curse of the law – Romans 7:4-6; Galatians 3:13 and be married to another – Romans 7:4. It is entering into a conjugal bond with the last Adam, who is the Lord from heaven – 1 Corinthians 15:45-49 or be betrothed to him according to the spirit – 2 Corinthians 11:2. He that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit – 1 Corinthians 6:17. It is the rite of joining unto Christ. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ – Galatians 3:27. It is the Spirit that baptizes us into this living organism, the Ecclesia of God, which is Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:12,13. See how crucial the rite of baptism then is.

Would Pharaoh have spared the Israelites had they not crossed the Red Sea? The crossing of the Red Sea not only brought separation between the kingdom of Pharaoh or put an end to the pursuit of the slave master and the people of Israel but also brought them under God’s pavilion through Moses, their Mediator between God and Men (a ruler and a deliverer), through whom the law would be administered – Galatians 3:19; Acts 7:35. Now Jesus having obtained a more excellent ministry, he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises – Hebrews 8:6/ 9:15/12:24, to whom we should we baptized unto.

What else does it do? It works toward the remittance of sins – Acts 2:38/22:16.

Baptism is thus a symbolic ritual that represents death, burial, and resurrection, with water representing a grave into which one is immersed, representing death and burial, and emerging from the water symbolizing resurrection. Submerging underwater represents you identifying with Jesus Christ’s death and burial, as well as the end of our natural selves (see Romans 6:3-6; Colossians 2:11,12). Simply put, by being immersed in water, you identify with Christ and are raised to life by the eternal Spirit. Ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God – Colossians 2:12. Ye are dead to sin but are alive unto God – Romans 6:2,11,13; 1 Peter 2:24.

Convicted by God’s Spirit, with conscience cleansed through faith in the blood – Hebrews 10:2,22, and the ‘will or volition’ renewed – Romans 7:18, one can transition from being a citizen of this world (under Satan’s dominion) to a citizen of heaven. By answering God’s call, they undergo baptism symbolizing identification with Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (refer to Romans 6:3-6; Colossians 2:12). This act signifies relinquishing their former status as a child of the devil for a new heavenly one, which is a child of God by new birth in the Spirit. The Spirit of God does all this in the blink of an eye when a soul is drawn to believe in Jesus Christ through whom the gift of salvation is offered.

In the Old Testament, they all passed through the sea; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea – 1 Corinthians 10:1,2; The Lord God led them by the right hand of Moses with his glorious arm – Isaiah 63:12. In like manner, in the New Testament, Jesus Christ being the antitype, who is the fulfilment or completion of the previous truth revealed in the Scriptures, God saves everyone who comes to Him through Christ. Like all other individuals or events in the Old Testament that act as types or shadows of Christ, Moses prefigured or foreshadowed Jesus Christ. Just like the blood sacrifice addressed atonement, it foreshadowed the coming of the lamb of God or prefigured the sacrifice of Christ, the salvation through Moses too foreshadowed the redemption through his antitype Jesus Christ.

Just like identifying with Moses was crucial, identifying with Christ is requisite to experience the redemptive work of God in the heart. At that time, the horse of Pharaoh went in with his chariots and with his horsemen into the sea – Exodus 15:19; God overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea – Psalm 136:15. This time, the power behind Pharaoh has been destroyed by Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection; having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it – Colossians 2:15. This time, not only did God through Christ destroy or disarm Satan but also condemned sin and redeemed us from the curse of the law having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances – Ephesians 2:15; Romans 6:6/8:3; Galatians 3:13; Hebrews 2:14.

Water Baptism is a requisite and without it, the work of salvation remains incomplete. “Believe and be baptized”; and “Repent and be baptized” were the phrases used by the first-century Church – Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38,41/8:12,36,37/18:8/19:3-6/ 22:16. Was it required to receive the Holy Ghost? It was not – Acts 8:16,17/ 9:18; 10:47/ 19:3-6;

Baptism then is a symbolical act, which signifies death, burial, and resurrection and water represents a grave into which one is immersed that portrays death, burial, and coming out of the water symbolizes resurrection. Submerging under the water symbolizes the death and burial of Jesus Christ, as well as the demise of our natural selves (see Romans 6:3–6; Colossians 2:12). In simple terms, by being dunked into the water you identify with Christ.

I’ve witnessed individuals who aren’t all that hesitant to affirm that Jesus is the Son of God turn antagonistic or exhibit other indicators of discord when the subject of water baptism is brought up. For what reason is that the case? That is a sign, don’t you think, that the devils within humans are aware of the consequences of following that rite? Water baptism unequivocally symbolizes our complete rejection of the kingdom of darkness and our unwavering commitment to, and our acceptance into the kingdom of Christ.

The apostle Paul questioned, “Was I crucified for you? Were you baptized in my name?” (1 Corinthians 1:12,13), emphasizing the importance of recognizing only one name. There is only one name that is GIVEN AMONG MEN, whereby we must be saved and that is the name of Jesus – Acts 4:12. That is the one name of God, which He hath highly exalted – Philippians 2:9.

And it has pleased the Father that in Christ should dwell all the fulness of the Godhead bodily – Colossians 1:19/2:9, which means, when you disregard the name of Christ you disown the divine Godhead itself. In addition to being a clear violation of the process of salvation, baptism in the trinitarian formula that omits the highly exalted name of God also fails to produce the desired effect. Only the spirit of the anti-Christ would desire to witness the deactivation of that name.

The saving power of God is vested in that single name. Would it be appropriate to simply mention the titles of God and ignore THE HIGHLY EXALTED NAME of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost when performing this ritual? ‘Highly exalt’ is ‘huperupsoo’–  i.e., to elevate above others (verse 10; Romans 8:38; Ephesians 3:10/6:12; Colossians 1:16), i.e., raise to the highest position.                                                                                                  It is important to recognize that the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost are one, despite being three – 1 John 5:7, and you are not renouncing the persons of the Godhead when employing the name of Christ; on the contrary, you are exalting the Godhead when you exalt the name of Christ. For that is the name of the one true God – 1 John 5:20 – John 5:43/10:25/ 12:28; Matthew 1:23; 1 John 5:20. And the command to us is: Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him – Colossians 3:17. But if ye refuse to identify with that name or refuse to honor that one name before people (that believing they might have life through his name – John 20:31); you are a double-crossing rat and a defector. After all, what is the New Testament and the grace of God, or the good news is apart from Christ? The name of Jesus Christ is the sum and substance of it all. Yes, Jesus did command “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them IN THE NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost” – Matthew 28:19; and we are not against that command; in fact, we fulfil it when we do it in that name, which is Jesus Christ.

Believing in the Lord Jesus Christ is believing in God – Acts 16:30-34.

Does the divine Godhead possess different names? Are the titles, “the Father, the Word, the Holy Ghost names? Tell me what the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost is. Is it not Jesus Christ in whom dwells the fulness of the Godhead bodily? He that hath seen Jesus hath seen the Father – John 14:9; for he is the exact representation of God – Hebrews 1:3; his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6. This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20. And that’s exactly what the apostles obeyed and preached and baptized believers into. As they were baptized UNTO MOSES (typifying Christ – Acts 7:35-39), here we get baptized INTO CHRIST – Galatians 3:27 And if one is not employing or invoking the name of Christ while administering this rite, who are we baptizing the soul into? It should be INTO a name and that one name is Jesus Christ. It is conforming or planting INTO the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ – Romans 6:4,5; Colossians 2:12.

Water baptism (watery grave) represents that: by the immersion act, we conform to Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection – Romans 6:3,4. The word “Baptism” is a transliteration of the Greek word baptizo, which means to immerse. In Hebrew, it is referred to as a MIKVEH – an immersion.

It’s the decisive moment, a public declaration to the spiritual rulers of the world, where you choose whose side you’re on. It’s a public renouncement of the past (public statement of repentance) and an acceptance of a new life in Christ. Believing is a divine work in the heart – Acts 13:48, but our enlivened will responds by obeying the command of our captain of salvation. It seals our fate and leads us to walk with the Spirit of Christ. This is the “narrow way” Jesus spoke of – Matthew 7:14.

This is where the king of Babylon stands in opposition. This is the parting of ways – Ezekiel 21:21. And that’s what we do by plunging ourselves into the medium of water to be planted with Christ in everything. It is a display of our choice. Joshua said, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve” His decision he made public, he said, as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord – Joshua 24:15. This crossing over stood as a testament to the “putting away of the gods which they served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; to serve the Lord – Joshua 24:14.

This is where the king of Babylon opposes. It marks the parting of ways – Ezekiel 21:21. By immersing ourselves in water, we symbolically unite with Christ in all things, displaying our choice. Joshua declared, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” He publicly announced his choice, stating, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” – Joshua 24:15. This crossing over testifies to putting away the gods they served in Egypt and on the other side of the flood, to serve the living God – Joshua 24:14.

Many find it easy to proclaim their belief but struggle when it comes to actually following through with the rite. This highlights the devil’s disdain for water baptism, placing this ritual at the forefront of entering life.

Julius Caesar was faced with an ordeal. Ordered by Pompei to disband his legions in Gaul, Caesar had to make a crucial decision. Should he lead his legions to Rome and seize power as Caesar? Or should he remain on the opposite bank of the river? Without hesitation, he spurred his horse into the river, sealing his fate, and forging ahead into history. Similarly, we too must confront our own choices and seal our fate with Christ, that we might enter into life.

What does it stand for:

• 💧 Water Baptism Symbolism Water baptism in the Bible represents the believer’s identification with Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It symbolizes the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in Christ.
• ✝️ Baptism as a Testimony Water baptism is also a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ and a commitment to follow Him. It is an outward sign of an inward change that has taken place in the believer’s heart.
• 🕊️ New Life in Christ Coming up from the water of baptism symbolizes resurrection from the dead and the start of a new life in Christ. It signifies the disavowal of their past life (cutting off the cord of wickedness) and their union with Christ their redeemer.

Acts 10:44-48/19:1-5 – GENTILES BAPTIZED

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, (what for?) even so we also should walk in newness of life – Rom 6:4,5/ 12:1,2/Col 2:12 – it is imperative that ye be identified with Christ in everything – Rom 8:17,29/Phil 3:10/2Tim 2:12/ 2Cor 1:5,7/1Pet 4:1,2,12-14/Phil 1:29/ James 5:10 – Baptism then is crucial – as a man and woman living together without being married is unlawful – and only a ceremony makes it legitimate – so does the water baptism serves us – it authorizes a person in the body of Christ – The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ –1Pet 3:20,21/ Baptized unto Moses –1Cor 10:1,2/Acts 7:36-37/Rom 6:3/Gal 3:27– Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck – 1Tim 1:19 – He who believes and is baptized will be saved – Mark 16:16.

Prerequisite:

Here is water; what doth hinder me from being baptized? And Philip said if thou believe with all your heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God – Acts 8:36,37.

The effect of baptism:

And when they were COME UP OUT of the water, he went on his way rejoicing – Acts 8:39/16:34/Rom 14:17/15:13 – the Joy of the Holy Ghost is the upshot of being baptized (buried with Christ by baptism into his death and are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God – Rom 6:4/Col 2:12) – For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost – Rom 14:17 – for we’ve been delivered from the power of darkness, and been translated into the kingdom of God’s dear Son – Col 1:13 – the joy of the Holy Ghost must be there (an inevitable factor – it’s the sign of a genuinely converted soul); otherwise, it isn’t proper/complete.

Cleansing is the primary meaning of baptism in all religious groups that have practiced it; but when baptism is administered in the name of the Lord who died and rose for the blotting out of sins (Acts 3:19), this aspect of its significance is immeasurably strengthened” (Dr. Beasley-Murray, 1973, p. 103).

How fast should one comply?: 

If possible, without much delay – Acts 8:34-38/Acts 16:30-33/22:16 – And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized – Acts 9:18; Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized – Acts 10:44-48. If you believe with your whole heart that Jesus Christ is the Son of God you must be baptized in water without further ado. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved – Mark 16:16.

Let me give you a few examples to validate my point.

Assume for the moment that someone fell into a deep ditch from which they could not emerge. When someone heard him calling for assistance, a ladder was set up and lowered to reach him. Would you rather that the individual use the ladder to climb up right away, or would you prefer that he wait a short bit longer so that you could explain the fundamentals of the ladder’s construction and operation?

It is clear that without Christ, souls are considered dead, but those who believe in him will be brought to life by the Spirit of God. This is the significance of water baptism, serving as a testimony of their new life. The minister is placing the corpse in a water tomb and burying it, and when it is raised from the water, it represents that soul’s resurrection through Christ Jesus.

Wouldn’t it be absurd to instruct the deceased spirit to return or linger until I educate and instil in you the wisdom of God, and once you are fully equipped, I will bury you and then resurrect you? The deceased should be revived promptly upon hearing the word of God and having faith. As soon as the dead hear the word of God and believe, they must immediately be resurrected to life. In the natural world, a corpse is interred promptly; in this context, when the soul realizes through the Spirit of God that they are dead and needs to be brought back to life by the resurrection power of Christ. This process must happen quickly to prevent decay and interference. Hence, I posit that this ritual should not be postponed or deferred.

Would you prioritize saving someone from the fire and securing them first, or would you attempt to instruct them while they are hindered by the fire and the building is on the verge of collapsing, potentially burying them?

Their understanding of the word is commendable, but it alone will not safeguard their soul. Without delay, those who believe should be baptized in water to protect their soul from the adversary.

“Believing and Baptism” are often seen as interconnected and represent a common objective in Christianity – Mark 16:16; Acts 2:41/8:12,35-38/9:18/16:14,15,30-34/18:8/19:4,5/22:16. “Believing” refers to having faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Saviour, which is essential for salvation. “Baptism” is a public declaration of one’s faith and commitment to Christ, symbolizing spiritual rebirth and initiation into the Christian community.

Baptism followed the confession of faith immediately, without delay. Does it serve any purpose if delayed? It serves no purpose. Delay only provides an opportunity for the devil to sabotage the plan of conforming to Christ. Delay can lead to distractions and hinder a person’s decision from being fulfilled. A delay may cause diversions, which could prevent someone from following through on their decision. Wouldn’t it be better to be sealed with the holy Spirit of promise sooner? Ephesians 1:12,13

This was the way the Holy Ghost guided the holy apostles to do, and it was also the way the first-century church operated. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine – Acts 2:42. We claim to uphold the apostles’ creed today, and we’ll even put a nicely laminated copy of it on our tables or walls. However, our actions tell a different tale.

There are numerous examples in the Bible, but let’s examine one particular incident. This event occurred when Paul and Silas were imprisoned. You can refer to the chapter for a full understanding, but let me get straight to the point. The ‘keeper of the prison’ asked, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spoke unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway. And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house – Acts 16:30-34.

Four occurrences in his life I would like to draw your attention to.

1. They said, believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. They spoke unto him and to all that were in his house the word of the Lord.
3. He and his household were baptized straightway (at the same hour of the night).
4. They rejoiced, believing in God.

This was a crucial moment when the Holy Spirit was convicting his heart, and it might be the only opportunity to persuade him. Pour the dough when the pan is hot. Terrified for his life and desperate for salvation, the only one who could rescue him from his situation was to follow their instruction. And what effect did it have? Was there a beneficial outcome following the baptism? He and his entire family were enveloped in the protection and guidance of the Holy Ghost. They found shelter under the shielding power of Christ’s blood.

And now why tarries thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16.

One must call upon that name for salvation and forgiveness of sins. It is not simply a matter of authority but a necessity.

Saved by water?

Saved by water –1Pet 3:20/1Cor 10:1-3 – Saved from what? Remission of past sins/ Washing away of sins – Acts 2:38/ 22:16; Rom 3:25; Hebrews 9:15/ they (the Israelites) had to be baptized unto Moses in the cloud and the sea –1Cor 10:1-3/ eight souls were saved by water –1Pet 3:20 – to walk in newness of life/liberty – where the oppressive/lethal elements like Satan, Sin, the present evil world, the curse of the law and death could no more hold them captive; that we might live unto God – Galatians 2:19. See how crucial the water baptism is! Even baptism doth also now save us –1Pet 3:20,21.

There is a catch: with the baptism, we must teach them to observe all things whatsoever Jesus hath commanded – Matt 28:20. Elect through sanctification of the Spirit, UNTO OBEDIENCE –1Pet 1:2 – Obedience unto righteousness – Rom 6:16; Bring forth fruits worthy of repentance – Luke 3:8; Obey from the heart that form of doctrine/standard of teaching (that has now claimed your allegiance -NLT) – Rom 6:17; the obedience of faith – Rom 16:26.

Just as regimes and political parties have their principles that supporters must adhere to, the kingdom of Christ also has its principles that disciples must follow to prove themselves true followers and receive the benefits. Jesus said, if ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed – John 8:31. Violating its creed is blaspheming its authority, and in our case, it is blaspheming against the Holy Ghost, who established it. Disobedience is akin to forsaking or abandoning the faith, the right way.

For those who contend that the Trinity-related text in Matthew 28:19 was inserted at a later time, I give the following perspective. In my view, Christianity is more than just an organization; it is a living entity guided, indwelt, and animated by the Spirit of God. The head of this assembly is the Lord Jesus Christ, who is Almighty and does not require human approval to fulfil His purpose.

The Gutenberg Bible, printed by Johannes Gutenberg in Mainz, Germany around 1455, was a significant milestone in printing history and Bible dissemination, making the text more accessible. The compilation of the Bible spanned many centuries, with the Old Testament written over about 1000 years and the New Testament over a shorter period, from approximately 50 AD to 150 AD. This process was not without sacrifice, as the blood of millions of faithful adherents was shed to bring this work to fruition, and millions upon millions were raised to life by this incorruptible seed of the word of God. The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, first published in 1611, involved 47 scholars translating different portions diligently over several years, influencing English literature and remaining widely read for over 400 years. The enduring legacy of the KJV speaks to its literary beauty and historical impact. It is a testament to the work of the Holy Ghost that enabled multitudes of saints to preach from it for centuries. The debate over the Trinity and the name of God embedded in Christ, while important, should not be used to bring confusion or discredit to the word of God. We must approach these discussions with clarity and understanding, recognizing and appreciating the work of the Holy Ghost throughout history.

When someone points out inconsistencies in the Bible or suggests it is flawed, abridged, or altered, it should be a warning to the body of Christ. It could be an attempt by the enemy to distort and discredit the word of God. Regardless of the claim’s validity, since the Holy Ghost has not addressed it, we should not let it confuse believers or give the enemy satisfaction.

We must ask, “Is the Holy Ghost, the all-knowing Creator, the Omniscient author and preserver of it unaware of such a serious matter?” Why would the Spirit of God allow such an error to be included in the New Testament, causing confusion and division? Does this mean that His supervision and inspiration, as mentioned in 2 Timothy 3:16, failed to accurately convey the word of God in human language? Doesn’t this imply a failure on the part of the Spirit of God? Could this be seen as a subtle denial of His omniscience and an acknowledgment of the Holy Ghost’s limitations? Questioning His omniscience is considered blasphemy, which is an unpardonable sin – Matthew 12:31; Mark 3:29; Luke 12:10. If there were inconsistencies as we have highlighted, particularly in the concept of the Trinity, why did the Spirit of God remain silent for the past 400 years? His silence indicated approval of a finalized canon and its truthfulness. We must acknowledge our failure to interpret the text rather than discredit God’s logos.

In this discussion, I aim to address both sides of the argument, to clarify and bring closure to the debate. I will show that the Trinity and the one name of God given in this present dispensation for salvation, as well as their application, are correct. Many people misunderstand because they either don’t understand the actual meaning of it or make the grave error of interpreting a Bible verse in isolation. It is imperative to understand the dispensations and their distinctions to align and harmonize the text. Failure to do so results in texts being removed from their context and used in isolation, leading to confusion and misunderstanding.

Here is a summary of the literature and statements regarding the potential later addition of Matthew 28:19:

Wycliffe Bible Commentary (Pfeiffer): The Trinitarian baptismal formula may not be the exact words of Jesus but a later liturgical addition.

Papias, an early Christian author in 100 A.D stated: "Matthew wrote the words in the Hebrew dialect, and each one interpreted as he could" in Eusebius Ecclesiastical History 3.39.

Jamieson, Fausset, Brown Commentary: Matthew was originally written in Hebrew, but more correctly Aramaic, or Syro-Chaldaic, the native tongue of the country at the time of our Lord; and that the Greek Matthew we now possess is a translation of that work, either by the Evangelist himself or some unknown hand.

Bible Knowledge Commentary (Walvoord): Matthew wrote in Aramaic and translations followed in Greek: Papias (80-155 AD), Irenaeus (130-202 AD), Origen (185-254 AD), Eusebius (4th century AD) and Jerome (6th century AD)

New Bible Commentary (Carson): Early Christian tradition held the view that Matthew was originally written in Hebrew or Aramaic, not in Greek.

Origen (185 AD): Matthew was the first to write and he composed and issued a Gospel in Hebrew for the Jewish believers. R.C.H Lenski, Gospel of Matthew, p 11-19

Pentanes (180 AD): he claims to have seen a Hebrew Gospel by Matthew in southern Arabia, which was brought there by Bartholomew. R.C.H Lenski, Gospel of Matthew, p 11-19

Caney’s Encyclopaedia of Religions (1970), Pg 53: The early church baptized persons ‘in the name of Jesus Christ’ or ‘in the name of the Lord Jesus’ until the development of the Trinity Doctrine in the Second Century.


Britannica Encyclopaedia – 11th EDITION, VOL 3, PG 365-366: The baptismal formula was changed from the name of Jesus Christ to the words Father, Son, & Holy Ghost by the Catholic Church in the second century.


Catholic Encyclopaedia – Vol 2, Pg 263: The Catholic Church changed baptism from the name of Jesus Christ to the Trinitarian formula.


A History of the Christian Church (Williston Walker) (1947), PG 58: The Trinitarian baptismal formula displaced the older baptism in the name of Christ.


Tyndale New Testament Commentaries I, 275: The Trinitarian baptismal formula may not be the exact words of Jesus but a later liturgical addition.


Catholic University of America Study 1923: The earliest form of baptism was in the name of the Lord Jesus.


James Moffatt's New Testament Translation: The Trinitarian formula may be a reflection of later Catholic liturgical usage, with the original baptism being in the name of Jesus.


Acts of Paul and Thecla (2nd Century - A.N.F., VIII, p. 490): Records an account of baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ.


Recognition of Clement (Recognition 1:39): “Jesus instituted baptism by water amongst them, in which they might be absolved of all their sins upon the invocation of his Name”

Eusebius (A.D. 264-340): In his early citations, he renders Matthew 28:19 as "Go ye and make disciples of all the nations IN MY NAME," only altering this after the Council of Nicaea.


New Catholic Encyclopaedia (MCGRAW-HILL, 1967, P. 59): An explicit reference to the Trinitarian formula of Baptism cannot be found in the first century, and the Trinitarian formula was unheard of for at least 100 years.


Encyclopaedia Biblica: Early disciples generally baptized in the name of Jesus Christ or the Lord Jesus.

These sources and statements suggest that there is some historical and textual debate surrounding the Trinitarian baptismal formula found in Matthew 28:19, with some scholars and sources indicating that it may have been a later addition or development in Christian practice.

Let’s attempt to clarify this verse. In Matt 28:19 – Jesus after the resurrection from the dead, commissioned the disciples to go and teach all nations, baptizing them IN THE NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost. But not one time do we see the disciples of Christ performing the rite of baptism in the “titles” of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost as many of us do now – Acts 2:38/8:16/10:48/19:5. Why such stark contradiction? For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints! 1Cor 14:33.

This is the contention: they say that Matthew 28:19 did not begin to say the titles “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost” until the Roman Council of Nicaea in 325 AD (when the Roman Catholic Church was born). The Roman Catholic Church REMOVED the name of Jesus from Matthew 28:19 and replaced it with titles, depriving water baptism of the sole name given among mankind under heaven through which we must be saved! If this is true, it is downright nefarious and supremely devilish. However, given that the epistle of Paul introduces the concept of the “Triune Godhead” by mentioning three entities in unity – the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one – 1 John 5:7; can we consider the doctrine of the trinity as false? But if both texts are correct, how can we merge them into one cohesive and powerful text?

According to history, the Early Church father, Eusebius, authored various papers in the late third and early fourth centuries – around 290-339 AD. This renowned church historian used a different translation of Matthew 28:19 in his writings (he paraphrased – “Go and make disciples of all the nations IN MY NAME”).

That is why, for the remission of sins, we should baptize in the NAME of Jesus Christ, which is the highly exalted name by which we must be saved, and that’s exactly what Jesus meant when he commanded in Matthew 28:19 to baptize them IN THE NAME of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

1. Jerusalem – Acts 2:38 – be baptized in the name of Jesus.
2. Samaria – Acts 8:12,16 – baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
3. Caesarea – Acts 10:48 – baptized in the name of the Lord.
4. Ephesus – Acts 19:5 – baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
5. Ethiopia – Acts 8:16,38 – believe with all thy heart/ believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; hearing the confession of the mouth both went down into the water and Philip baptized the eunuch.
6. Damascus – Acts 22:16/15:17 – calling on the name of the Lord.
7. Corinth – 1 Cor 1:13 – baptized in the name.
8. Rome – Rom 6:3 – baptized into Christ.
9. Galatia – Gal 3:27 – baptized into Christ.
10. Colossae – Col 2:12 – buried with Christ in baptism.                                                                                                                                                                                                                  I comprehend the directive Jesus provided for baptism in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. I wish to clarify that I am not disregarding Matthew 28, I recognize the passage, nor am I diminishing the significance of being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. It is evident to me now that baptizing individuals should be carried out in the name of Jesus, and that Matthew 28 was not a mistake but the truth, which the early church adhered to. It is our understanding that requires adjustment, not the deletion of the text. Only the truth of the text (verity) would fulfill its meaning. This necessitated the use of the ‘keys of the kingdom’ bestowed upon Peter by the Lord – Matthew 16:19. Peter was able to utilize them only after the Holy Ghost had descended upon him with power on the day of Pentecost – Acts 2. Jesus said, when He, the Spirit of truth (aletheia – verity), is come, HE WILL GUIDE YOU into all (the whole) truth – John 16:13.

I’m still baffled as to why gospel ministers still struggle with this. Not a single passage provides evidence to the contrary. Scripture makes this quite plain. At the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established. Apostles Peter, Paul, and Phillip – these were the men through whom God had founded these churches. Peter’s formula was “in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 2:38; 10:48), Phillip’s was in the Name of the Lord Jesus (8:16). And the one Paul used was the same (Acts 19:5).

By doing so, they were not disregarding the command of the Lord to baptize people in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; instead, when the Spirit of God came upon them on the day of Pentecost, when the way into the holiest of all was made manifest – Hebrews 9:8; they understood the true meaning of what the Lord had commanded. They acknowledged the command given in Matthew 28 and baptized individuals in the one name of God provided in this era for redemption.

In what authority do we digress from this established course? And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine (Acts 2:42); but are we? Peter’s demand that everyone be baptized IN THE NAME of Jesus was in direct response to Jesus’ order in Luke 24:47, where he said, that repentance and remission of sins should be preached IN HIS NAME among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Until the day in which he was taken up, after that, he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen – Acts 1:2.

Later in his sermon, Peter declared by divine revelation: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord (“Kyrios,” which is the Greek term used in the New Testament for Jehovah) and Christ” – Acts 2:36. Please note that up until Acts 1 (the day of Pentecost) the Holy Ghost was not yet been given – for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified – John 7:39. After that the Holy Ghost had come upon them, it took them to another level. Peter stood boldly and revealed Jesus as Lord and Chris; he was announcing that Jesus is both Jehovah and Messiah the same person! For in Christ now dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily – Col 2:9 – For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell (Col 1:19). Yes, God did glorify Jesus of Nazareth – John 12:23/17:5; but only by the coming of the Spirit of God (the promise of the Father, which is the Baptism of the Holy Ghost/ the enduement of power from on high – Acts 1:4; Luke 24:49) did Jesus was glorified in His saints – John 16:13/17:10; 2 Thessalonians 1:10.

Jesus said unto them, these things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. At that day ye shall ask IN MY NAME: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you. For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God – John 16:25-27. Jesus in the days of his flesh was praying for them in their stead but he wanted them to have direct contact with the Father as he maintained. And only after receiving the Spirit of God are we able to call God, our Father. Now we can come boldly to God – Hebrews 4:16/11:6; Galatians 4:6.

Jesus, during his time on earth, prayed for them on their behalf, but his ultimate desire was that they would come to know God personally and have a direct connection with the Father just as he did. It is only through receiving the Spirit of God that we can address God as our Father. We can now confidently approach God. Have you noticed the transformation in the apostles’ comprehension and stature? By the reception of the Spirit of God, the inept, fragile, fearful disciples became like their master. Jesus said the disciple is not above his master: but everyone, that is perfect (made perfect – Hebrews 5:9/7:19; 2 Corinthians 12:9) shall be as his master – Luke 6:40. And the breath came into them (a rushing mighty wind – Acts 2:2; there was a noise, and behold a shaking – Ezekiel 37:7), and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army – Ezekiel 37:10. Their spirits were made perfect by the descent of the Spirit upon them – Hebrews 12:23, and they turned the world upside down.                                                                                                                                                                This parable spoke Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spoke unto them – John 10:6. These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified (when he breathed on them and said, receive ye the Holy Ghost – John 20:22), then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him – John 12:16. When they became men (their understanding matured – after they were illuminated – Hebrews 10:32), they put away childish things – 1 Corinthians 13:11.

Ask yourself, whom do you want to conform to? He that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit – 1 Cor 6:17. How are we made conformable unto his death or planted together in the likeness of his death? Through Baptism – Philippians 3:10; Romans 6:5. The Old Testament people were baptized unto Moses (a type – a copy or shadow) in the cloud and the sea – 1Cor 10:2. In The New Testament, we are baptized unto Christ (the anti-type – the reality).

Can you at least glean something from the words of apostle Paul in I Corinthians 1:13: ‘Was Paul crucified for you, or were ye baptized in the Name of Paul? Why was he even alluding to this in the first place?

Since the beginning, God kept the revelation of His Son Jesus a mystery, which was revealed to us through his holy apostles and prophets. Since the dawn of days, everything pointed or worked toward the coming of the Messiah. God had kept that one name hidden for eons, by which He would bring redemption.

The Old Testament saints perceived something was going on and many tried to understand it but couldn’t. The Lord who spoke unto them was terrible in majesty and could not be felt and seen by the humans as He is a Spirit infinite in power, a mighty God and terrible – Deuteronomy 7:21; with God is terrible majesty – Job 37:22.

Israel of God could not endure the voice of the living God, as it terrified them, and felt that they would die every time they heard God speak – Deuteronomy 5:24-27. So terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake – Hebrews 12:21. This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spoke to him in the mount Sinai, and with our fathers – Acts 7:38.

This time, He (the Word of God, the sinless one, the Spirit of truth – 2 Corinthians 3:17; Revelation 19:13) assumed (took upon) the sinful flesh of man to engage with and advocate for mankind while defending and mediating his cause – Romans 8:3; Hebrews 2:14,18/4:15. As He took upon the form of man, that form of man is called the Son of God or the Son of man, whose name is Jesus Christ. And this dispensation is cantered upon this one name that whatsoever we do in word or deed, we must do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him – Colossians 3:17.

Failing to exalt/magnify the name of Jesus Christ disqualifies us from inheriting everything the Lord has qualified us to inherit through his blood. The Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost are one – 1 John 5:7; they are not separate entities, and the name of the Godhead is Jesus Christ. For in Christ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily—this is the witness of God the Father – Colossians 1:19/2:9; 1 John 5:9-13. If so, it is the name of Jesus that one should call upon for the salvation of His or her soul and be baptized into.

Calling on that one highly exalted name is calling addressing the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. But if you only focus on the trinity formula and neglect to mention the name of God, who is Jesus Christ, it is a denial of the Godhead. Simply put, addressing the trinity formula without invoking God’s name, Jesus Christ is a denial of the Godhead itself. This is the true God and eternal life; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13; 1 John 5:20.

Why do we hesitate to exalt the name of God, which is Jesus Christ? Let me clarify, not Yahweh God as He was known in the past, but Jesus Christ is the new and living way that God wants us to call upon and be saved. That is His name. Lifting that name alone brings glory to God, destroys the works of the enemy, and saves a soul. To free a soul from Satan’s grasp, exalt only that name and dunk a soul into that name.

To receive the grace of the Lord Jesus, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, a person must be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost – Acts 2:38. The Spirit of God discloses this revelation throughout the whole epistles in a straightforward way and I wonder why we are so hesitant, recalcitrant or obstinate?

The church is in its current state of lukewarmness because it has forsaken its first love, Jesus Christ. Unless the church repents and returns to her first love, which is Jesus Christ, she will not see the return of the Holy Ghost in power, which she longs for. The Spirit of God falls when the Church esteems the name of Jesus Christ. To satisfy your stance following certain traditions you could christen a soul by reciting “IN THE NAME OF the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost” yet refuse to invoke the name to which a soul must be planted or conform to.

What do you not understand about the phrase “in the name of“?

When something is done “in the name of” a person or entity, it typically means using that name to access the authority, power, or benefits associated with it. By invoking the name, one acknowledges the authority and aims to align themselves with the values, principles, or benefits represented by that name. It can indicate a connection, representation, or authorization when carrying out an action or pursuing a specific outcome.

Carrying out an action “in the name of” someone or something usually means acting on their behalf, with their authority, approval, or in line with their desires. It suggests that the action is being done with the support or approval of the person or entity mentioned. This expression is commonly used to indicate authorization, representation, or commitment to a cause or goal.

Those who are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, who is the Lord (kurios) and Christ (Christos) – Acts 2:36; they shall receive power (exousia – delegated influence: — authority, jurisdiction, liberty, power, right, strength) to become sons of God – John 1:12. Keep in mind the rule of thumb: “believing and baptism” are inextricable. They work in tandem, and they work together to accomplish a common goal.

Baptism is the result of the gift of faith in the heart and should not be viewed as just a ceremony. The faith, received through hearing the word of God, should lead a person to align themselves with Christ – Acts 2:37,38. It is a personal belief that motivates a person to dedicate themselves to Him, not a formal practice to join a religious group.

I have seen many people attend church without true conviction, simply to access church services such as marriage and burial, which are typically reserved for baptized members and regular attendees, this is sacrilege.

Even if we ought to validate this verse, “Baptizing them IN THE NAME”– the Singular usage points us to one name: we see three tiles of God being used here rather than three names of God. We must not forget the fact that The Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost are not the names of three Gods but tiles of the one true God – 1Tim 2:5/ John 4:24. The original text reads: baptizing into “the name of Jesus Christ” or the Lord Jesus – which is exactly what the Apostles of the Lamb and the first-century assembly of believers practiced and followed. Otherwise, employing just Matthew 28:19 will not only bring confusion but also force many to choose the other extreme of rejecting the pattern that the Apostles had furnished. Had Jesus commanded his disciples to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, then why didn’t the Apostles follow that pattern, and also why there is not one single supporting verse? They did follow that command, did they not?

Some may consider bringing the Didache into the discussion to support their position. Didache 7 (The Teaching of the Twelve Apostles) has been proven to be an interpolation written in the late third century. The main evidence for the late dating of chapter 7 includes linguistic analysis, which suggests that the style and vocabulary are more similar to third-century Christian writings than to earlier texts. However, if you take into account the validity of Chapter 7 of the Didache, you may find yourself in a dilemma; for it also says, that if you do not have access to living water to immerse a person, pour out water three times upon the head into the name of Father and Son and Holy Spirit.” “Into the name” is still the requisite medium for immersion, but would you consider this form of baptism, which was unknown in the first century?

The ‘Trinitarian formula’ is something that Catholics, Baptists, Academicians, and Historians all agree on – in fact, it’s no longer a subject of contention among the most serious New Testament experts!

If we literally implement the idea from Matthew 28:19, shouldn’t we also apply the prayer modality that the Lord taught the apostles? But, since that prayer was specific and related to a specific event that was to occur shortly after Jesus rose from the dead, what is the point of continuing to ask for something that has already been answered? The coming of the Spirit transformed our entire persona so that our prayer language is no longer limited to a specific fashion, but as believers, we are constantly in a spirit of prayer – “pray without ceasing” – 1 Thessalonians 5:17; and we now pray in the Spirit – Ephesians 6:18; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Romans 8:26.

In Christ it’s fulfilled – Matthew 6:9-13.

• Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name (He hallowed his name– John 12:28; Philippians 2:9).
• Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven (His kingdom had come and His will was done, for which the Son of God came to do– John 5:30/Heb 10:9/Luke 11:20/Rom 14:17).
• Give us this day our daily bread (John 6:50,51). He gave us the engrafted word (the word of Christ enriches us – Col 3:16; James 1:21; John 6:27), the spiritual meat that satisfies our hunger.
• And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors (Grace is God’s goodness aimed at human debt and depravity. God imputes merit where none previously existed and proclaims no debt where one previously existed, all via His mercy. A tremendous debt that we will never be able to repay. Our debt is paid via redemption. The debt and penalty of our sins; for Jesus Christ has become our Ransom. He hath ransomed us from death, the grave, from the power of sin, from the evil world, that we might live unto God and become the righteousness of God in Christ. By shedding his blood he redeemed us– 1Pet 1:18,19/Eph 1:7).
• “Finished!” Jesus exclaimed just before he died. Jesus didn’t just say that his suffering was over. In its original tongue, the word meant “to close out an account”: “Cancelled,” “Paid in Full,” “Nothing left to Pay”—”Finished!” Jesus paid the entire debt of sin.
• And lead us not into temptation (peirasmos), but deliver us from evil (Christ spoiled principalities and powers/destroyed him that had the power of death, that is, the devil – Col 2:15/Heb 2:14– He destroyed the works of the devil and delivered us from sin, death, saved us from this present evil world and from the power of darkness – Col 2:15/Heb 2:17,18/2Pet 2:9/James 1:12/ Luke 11:4/1John 3:8/5:18/Gal 1:4/Col 1:13).

As opposed to ‘peirazo’, which refers to physical temptations – Hebrews 2:18/4:15; Matthew 4:1, Jesus advised them to pray to the Father to lead them not into ‘peirasmos’, which is trials or tests of faith (which is trial of faith or trying of faith – Abraham and Joseph and others were tested – Hebrews 11:17; Psalms 105:19; Deuteronomy 8:2,3); but deliver us from evil (poneros – calamity, hand of the wicked). There is a connection between “dokimion” (δοκίμιον) and “peirasmos” (πειρασμός) in Greek: Both “Dokimion” given in 1 Peter 1:7/4:12; James 1:3 means “testing” or “trial.”

There is a difference between these two Greek words:

– “Peirazo” (πειράζω) is a verb that means “to test” or “to tempt.” Means – God.

– “Peirasmos” (πειρασμός) is a noun that means “trial” or “temptation.” Means – Fleshly, Humans, the World, and the Devil.

In summary, “peirazo” is the action of testing or tempting, while “peirasmos” refers to the trial or temptation itself.

Therefore, when Jesus instructed them to pray to the Father in facing the temptation (lead us not into ‘Peirasmos’), he was alluding to the impending great trial or test, which is described as follows: “I will turn my hand upon the little ones; I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered” (Zechariah 13:7-9; Mark 14:27).

In Zechariah 13, the final three verses discuss the aftermath following the cutting off of the Messiah, along with the Jewish expulsion from Jerusalem, the AD 70 massacre, and the subsequent destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple.

The first-century church was expecting the fulfilment of Jesus’ prophecy about the impending destruction. He had warned them, “When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso reads, let him understand:)” Matthew 24:15-20.

• For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. Now is come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God, day, and night – Revelation 12:10.

I find it necessary to emphasize this: If they were baptized unto Moses – 1Cor 10:2, and the comparison is made with Moses who was a servant and Christ a Son in Hebrews 3:5 – and both ushered in two different covenants; and if in baptism we conform to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (identify with him)(Rom 6:4/Col 2:12), then obviously we have to be baptized unto Jesus Christ, right? Otherwise, it doesn’t make sense, does it? When one is immersed in the name of Jesus, he or she is being baptized into the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; because in Christ dwells all the fullness of Godhead bodily (Col 1:19/2:9).

It then means that either the original wording of Matthew 28:19 has been tampered with or it means to baptize in the name of “the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost” which is exactly what the Apostles of the lamb followed. Even if you want to substantiate the Trinitarian version, it would eventually lead to the name of Jesus Christ when we properly analyse it. I shall explain.

People think that according to – Matt 28:19 – Christ has given us a word formula/ mode/ technique/ procedure to baptize – and if you don’t do exactly how it says – you need to be re-baptized or your baptism is not effective enough! I would rather follow the pattern the Apostles had laid out for us to follow in the first place. The Gospel of Matthew says “baptizing them into (eis) the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; Luke uses such turn of phrase as baptizes in (epi) the name of Jesus Christ – Acts 2:38 – baptized into (eis) the name of the Lord Jesus – Acts 8:16 – Baptized in (en) the name of Jesus Christ – Acts 10:48; Peter to whom the Lord Jesus Christ gave the keys of the kingdom of heaven – Matt 16:19/Acts 2:1 – commanded them to be baptized in this manner – or baptized into (eis) the name of the Lord Jesus. Keep in mind that, the name “Yeshua” in Hebrew means, “God our Salvation”. The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous runs INTO IT and is safe – Pro 18:10. “Preaching Christ crucified”, to the Jews is a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks it is foolishness; but unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God – 1 Corinthians 1:23,24. God has become my Yeshua; Behold, God is my salvation – Isaiah 12:2; God was manifest in the flesh – 1Tim 3:16; the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13; This is the true God, and eternal life –1 John 5:20. God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ (the Messiah, the anointed One)(Acts 2:36).

JESUS is God’s all-encompassing name (the Father’s unspoken name). JESUS was the name that the Son declared. And he stated unequivocally that that was His Father’s name! A man’s name was revealed to be that of the Spirit (the Lord is that Spirit – 2 Cor 3:17 – the second man is the Lord from heaven – 1 Cor 15:47).

• “I have DECLARED unto them thy name, and will disclose it,” the Son (human) prayed to the Father (Eternal Spirit). “I will DECLARE thy name unto my brethren, and in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee,” the Son states again in Hebrews 2:12.
• “I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if anyone comes in his own name, him ye will receive,” Jesus informed the Jews (John 5:43).
• The Eternal Spirit is Jehovah Saviour, and the Son of man is the embodiment of Jehovah Saviour. And we address the “fullness of God bodily” when we say the name Jesus (Col 1:19/2:9).

God had concealed His name? We speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory (1 Corinthians 2:7) – the mystery of Christ – Ephesians 3:4 – which from the beginning of the world hath been hidden in God (Ephesians 3:9) – Even the mystery which hath been hidden from ages and generations, but now is made manifest to his saints (Col 1:26).

• “Tell me, I pray thee, thy NAME,” Jacob asked the Angel of the Lord as he struggled with him (Genesis 32:27). “Wherefore dost thou ask after my name?” the Angel said, refusing to reveal his identity.
• Later, the Angel of the Lord appeared to Samson’s father, Manoah. Manoah was curious about His name but was told not to: “Why asks thou so after my NAME, because it is SECRET?” (Judges 13:18).

It would appear that the Lord’s Angel would be able to declare the Lord’s NAME, yet this is not the case.

ONE SPECIAL NAME was kept hidden because of something in God’s plan and purpose. However, it became clear that the previous names were incomplete.

• Zechariah prophesied, “And the Lord shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be ONE LORD, and His NAME ONE” (Zechariah 14:9).
• Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? What is HIS NAME, and what is HIS SON’S NAME, if thou canst tell? – Proverbs 30:4

Only on the magnificent event of the Incarnation, God chose to disclose the highest name ever revealed. Throughout the millennia God had remained an invisible Spirit, manifesting Himself only on rare occasions in a variety of transitory forms, or Theophanies (i.e., men, angels, apparitions, smoke, fire, clouds, whirlwinds, and in dreams and visions). Because God had only partially disclosed Himself, it was only fair that His name was only partially revealed as well.

The reason Jesus’ name must be invoked during baptism is because the spiritual rulers of the world would only release a person upon hearing that name, before which every knee bows – Philippians 2:9-11; Romans 14:11. All authority is given to Jesus in heaven and on earth – Matthew 28:18. This means Jesus is established as Lord and Christ – the ruler, divine, sovereign, symbol of authority, granted power: — control, dominion, freedom, might, entitlement, potency. Sin, death, and hell are under his dominion – Revelation 1:18. When Moses went to Pharaoh to ask for the release of the Israelites, he did not specifically tell Pharaoh who sent him, but he did convey God’s message and demanded to let His people go. Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let my people go – Exodus 5:1. And Pharaoh said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go – Exodus 5:2. Unlike back then, the Pharaoh of today’s world is well aware of who he is dealing with. He has first-hand knowledge of the Lord – Matthew 4:1/8:29; Hebrews 2:14; Colossians 2:15. The mention of the Lord’s name sends shivers down his spine. Jesus entered the strong man’s house bound him first and spoiled his house and good; He destroyed the works of the devil – Matthew 12:29; Mark 3:27; Luke 11:21,22; 1 John 3:8.

In water baptism, it is a declaration to the forces of darkness that in the name of Jesus Christ the soul, which is immersed, has been set free and is united with Christ. It is a transfer from one realm to another that occurs in this exchange. It is a symbol of the soul’s allegiance to Christ – Colossians 1:13. Acts 2:41,47 says, they that gladly received Peter’s word WERE BAPTIZED: and the same day there were added unto the church about three thousand souls – Acts 2:41. It is turning unto the Lord in obedience to God – Acts 5:29. It is made plain here that complete adherence to Christ required water immersion. It is cleaving to the Lord with purpose of heart—that is, with one’s real, genuine desire—and it is turning to the Lord and being added to the Lord – Acts 11:21,23,24.

Unlike Moses, the ministers of Christ do not have to address the kingdom of darkness or command the Pharaoh to set free a soul. By the authority invested in the name of Christ, you release a soul from its captivity the moment you immerse the believing person into the depths of the watery grave. You then raise him or her up from the grave, representing the resurrection from the dead, to be seated along with Christ – Acts 26:18; Luke 20:35-38; John 5:21; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:4; Ephesians 2:6.

All of this is made possible by the Holy Ghost-quickening the human spirit. It is God’s working within a person, according to Colossians 2:12; it is the same God which worketh all in all – 1 Corinthians 12:6; it is the goodness of God – Romans 2:4/11:22; it is God which works in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure – Philippians 2:13. That is why it is considered a “gift of God,” so that no one may boast – Ephesians 2:8,9. No man can even say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost – 1 Corinthians 12:3. No man can come to Jesus, except the Father which hath sent him draw him – John 6:44. This is the good news. Even David also describes the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputes righteousness without works – Romans 4:6-8. Consider that the Holy Ghost is the one who leads us to the watery grave to unite with Christ. Therefore, do not view the baptismal process as a mere symbol. It has value and significance.

Can we claim to have been raised from the dead or to have joined Christ and His church if we do not follow the biblical pattern of death, burial, and resurrection?

In the past, God was a mystery but with the coming of Christ, the mystery of God has been revealed. He is no longer a distant God but a Father who wishes to reside in man. Everything about the dark world remained a mystery until Christ came to destroy the works of the devil. He stripped the enemy of his power and triumphed over him, which is the old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, who had terrorized the world for so long – Isaiah 14:16,17; Revelation 12:9. The mystery of Satan is no longer a mystery. He is now a defeated foe.

What do all these imply? Doesn’t “baptizing in the name of Jesus Christ” imply “baptism to the divine Godhead,” emphasizing the importance and necessity of invoking that specific name? Why are we hesitant to use that name with such authority? What is it that prevents us from putting the name of Christ on a pedestal and being explicit in our declaration of it, instead of forcing us to fool around with the titles of God that we feel comfortable using? Invoking that name alone unlocks the door to life.

To get the truth across to the reader, I must be blunt. It was not the Father or the Holy Ghost who incarnated, but the second person of the Godhead, known as the Word of God – Revelation 19:13. The term “incarnate” means “embodied in flesh” or “taking on flesh.” The Word became flesh – John 1. Who his own self (autos – he, himself) bare (the paschal lamb of God – John 1:29,36; Revelation 13:8) our sins in his own body (soma – physical body) on the tree – 1 Peter 2:24. Redemption is made available to all creatures of God through the shed blood of Christ! In Greek, “blood” is translated as “αίμα” (haima), and it is found in mortal, carnal beings and creatures. Blood is a vital component of many living organisms, including humans and animals, and it plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. The life of the flesh is in the blood – Leviticus 17:11. Blood is the possession of that which is made of earthly elements. And because the earth was tainted by the rebellion of Lucifer, it was not a flawless world from which the Lord shaped Adam. The world was already tainted with sin prior to man’s fall. What is man, that he should be clean? and he which is born of a woman, that he should be righteous? Job 15:14/25:4 Was not Christ born of a woman? John 16:21; Job 14:1; Galatians 4:4 The Word of God, he is the life of man – John 1:4; 1 John 5:11,12, and that sustains all creatures (the Mashiyach or the Messiah is the breath of our nostrils – Lamentations 4:20). The body that the Word of God assumed should possess characteristics of life in his blood similar to his siblings. And when he bled his blood, that is the life that he offered as a payment for our sins.

If so, we must identify with the second person in all things. This is the perfect will of God.

The mystery of the divine Godhead is that without aligning with the second person of the Godhead, no one can connect with God. Why, you may ask? Firstly, Christ is the wisdom and power of God; secondly, God through His Word created all things. 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. He is before all things, and by him, all things consist – Colossians 1:16,17. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature – Colossians 1:15, through which God can be felt and understood. Who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of his power – Hebrews 1:3. He was in the beginning with God! All things were made by him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men – John 1:1-4. He shared the same glory with the Father – John 17:5, and the Father loves the Son and hath given all things into his hand; and shows him all things that Himself does – John 3:35/5:20; All power (all authority) is given unto him in heaven and in the earth – Matthew 28:18. And it pleased the Father that in Christ should dwell all the fullness of the Godhead bodily (corporeal)– Colossians 1:19/2:9.

Christ had a unique identity that could be referred to as a ‘hypostatic union’. He was fully human and fully God.

If we claim that Jesus did not fully embody a human identity, we are essentially saying that he did not carry sin in his physical body – Colossians 1:20,22; Romans 8:3. It seems illogical to argue that his human identity was free from sin while simultaneously bearing sin in his flesh. Yet, as death is the consequence of having sinful flesh – Romans 8:3, all opposing arguments fall apart.

The antichrist spirit or influence would oppose this truth. Every spirit that confesses not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh (sarx – carnal, human nature or desires that are considered worldly or sinful) is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist – 1 John 4:3; For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist – 2 John 1:7.

As by one man sin entered the world, and death by sin; and so, death passed upon all men (Christ is included), for that all have sinned – Romans 5:12; The sinless Word of God became one with us in all things and was made sin for us. God hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him – 2 Corinthians 5:21. That which is conceived in the womb of the virgin Mary; the holy thing which shall be born of Mary – Luke 1:35, is the Son of man, Who in the days of his flesh when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death and was heard in that he feared – Hebrews 5:7; Luke 22:42.

Through the incarnation, the Holy and Just One took upon Himself the sin of the world by being conceived in the womb of the virgin Mary. Why was he cut off out of the land of the living? Daniel 9:26; Isaiah 53:8. Because he touched the uncleanness of man, but not for himself – Leviticus 5:3/7:21; Daniel 9:26. He became accursed for us – Galatians 3:13. He hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted; he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him – Isaiah 53:4,5. God had made his soul (nephesh – a breathing creature) an offering for sin – Isaiah 53:10. The Creator God became a creature by nature. The very “breath of life” had become a nephesh like the first Adam, a breathing creature – Genesis 2:7. In Simple terms, by nature, the Almighty One humbled Himself and took on human form – Philippians 2:6-9.

Since the Holy Ghost affirmed that we have a high priest who can sympathize with our weaknesses and was tempted in every way just like us yet without sin, our failure to reach an agreement on this issue arises from a conflict with the Holy Ghost – Hebrews 4:15. Considering Jesus as dissimilar means considering the works of atonement flawed and incomplete. Remember that sin and the law are complementary; without the other, neither is valid (sin is not imputed when there is no law – Romans 5:13; Matthew 5:17). Therefore, being “yet without sin” has to do with abiding by the law and has nothing to do with moral excellence. When someone is described as righteous in the Old Testament, it doesn’t imply that they are without sin; rather, it means that they have obeyed God’s law. “Righteous” in Hebrew is ‘tsaddiyq’, means, lawful or law-abiding.

Example: They were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless – Luke 1:6; Genesis 7:1.

How did Jesus keep himself pure and spotless? God hath not given the Spirit by measure unto him – John 3:34; He through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God – Hebrews 9:14. What was the purpose of him being made perfect through suffering, otherwise? The captain of our salvation was made perfect through sufferings; he learned obedience by the things which he suffered – Hebrews 2:10/5:8; being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him – Hebrews 5:9. For whom the Lord loves he chastens and scourges every son whom he receives – Hebrews 12:6. And the Father chastened him sorely. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death (which is the effect of bearing sin in his body) he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil (and condemn sin – Roman 8:3); For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed (sperma – male sperm) of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behooved him (obligatory) to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. It was expedient for us, that one man should die for the people – John 11:49-51/18:14. Sin came into the world through one man, so righteousness also had to come through one man – Romans 5:18,19. For where a testament (covenant) is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator – Hebrews 9:16. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted – Hebrews 2:14-18.

Why did God make His Son an atonement for our sins, yet we fail to honour the name through which we are saved, a name that is higher than any other? Through Baptism, we recognize and accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, acknowledging the sacrifice He made for us and the salvation God offers through Him. “Calling upon that name” is honouring, showing gratitude and reverence for what He has done for us, and recognizing His authority and power in our lives. God has borne witness about His Son, in whom is life – 1 John 5:9-13. Christ is our life, and we must be planted into Him. God hath predestined us to be conformed to the image of his Son; that we may grow up into him in all things – Ephesians 4:15; Romans 8:29.

The Bible says, For in Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily – Col 1:19/2:9. If that is true, then the name “Jesus Christ” must be the name of the Godhead, isn’t it? When you call upon that name, you are addressing the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost. It discredits and contradicts God to place less emphasis on, ignore, or fail to act upon the name of God’s Son, whom the Father has highly exalted far above all principality, power, might, and dominion, and every name that is named, both in this world and the next – Ephesians 1:21. Magnifying that name alone glorifies God, as He has exalted His word above all His name – Psalms 138:2. Referring to the Godhead by different names or viewing them as separate entities implies the opposite of the unity of the Godhead as revealed in the Holy Scripture – 1 John 5:7; John 10:30/14:9; 1 Corinthians 8:6.

For the Scripture states: Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name, which is above every name – Phil 2:9 – that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you – 2Thess 1:12; and at that name all powers must bow. It then also means that to be baptized into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost – or be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus – are both the same, so to speak. But the quickening Spirit –1Cor 15:45/2Cor 3:17/ John 14:18/ Ephesians 4:10; who is the Word – John 1:1; who wrote the Holy Scriptures: for all scripture is given by inspiration of God – 2Tim 3:16/ 2Pet 1:21; commanded through his disciples to be baptized in His name. Even though there are three identities of God been portrayed in the Bible, we must know that God is One and when the name of Jesus is exalted, the Father, the Holy Ghost also is exalted because the Godhead is one essence. Who hath declared this from ancient times? Who hath told it from that time? Have not I the Lord? (There is one Lord – Ephesians 4:5/1Cor 8:6) And there is no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour (the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; This is the true God – 1 John 5:20; Titus 2:13), there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God (saith the Lord Jesus Christ), and there is none else – Isaiah 45:21-22. Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father, and how says thou then, Show us the Father? John 14:9. He is, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace – Isaiah 9:6. He said, before Abraham was, I AM – John 8:58. This is He, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spoke to Moses in the mount Sinai, and with our fathers – Acts 7:38.

For thou hast magnified thy word (John 1) above all thy name (Psalm 138:2)

He that believeth (in the name of Jesus Christ – the one name of God given among men whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12) and is baptized (identity with him – Rom 6:4/Col 2:12) shall be saved – Mark 16:16. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12. Does it make sense? Identifying with Christ is identifying with the Godhead. To identify with the Godhead, one must first identify with Christ, as it is impossible to come to God otherwise. Let all persons call on the name of the Lord Jesus while being immersed in water – Acts 22:16. For baptism now saves –1 Peter 3:21.

The Scriptures divulge the fact that “Jahoshea” means “Jehovah the Saviour”. Jesus (Iēsous) is the Greek form of the Hebrew “Jahoshea”. JESUS’ name meant SALVATION – Matthew 1:21. The roots of the Greek word Jesus trace to the Hebrew Jehoshua which is a combination of Jehovah (Self- existent One) and Yasha (Saviour) forming the highest name of Jehovah ever known: Jehovah-Yasha (Saviour)!

Hence, there shouldn’t be any doubt that Jesus is also the name of the Father. Jesus himself confirmed this when he said, I am come in my Father’s name – John 5:43;  Jesus prayed, Father, glorify thy name – John 12:28; and which name did the Father glorify? Phil 2:9. For there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved – Acts 4:12.

In the Old Testament He says, Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else (the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ – Titus 2:13 – This is the true God, and eternal life – 1 John 5:20). I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear – Isaiah 45:22,23. Jesus confirms it: For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord (kurios – the ultimate authority), every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God – Romans 14:11. Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I AM – John 8:58; And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM (Yahweh) – Exodus 3:14. And he is before all things – Col 1:17; This is that Moses – Acts 7:36-39.

When you say the Name Jesus, you are saying in an abridged form “Jehovah the Saviour.” Even Trinitarians admit that the name Jehovah is applied to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one – 1 John 5:7. If so, why would not the name Jesus (Jehovah-Saviour) be equally applicable to the divine Triune Being? The three persons within the Godhead equally play an indispensable part in the plan of Salvation, don’t they?

Question: Does verbally pronouncing “in the name of Jesus” matter much? It certainly does! Verbal usage: they healed the sick and cast out devils in “Jesus’ Name –  Mark 16:17,18/Acts 3:6,8. The apostles weren’t shy to utter the Name; they knew where the authority lies; they knew whom God hath glorified; they knew to whom they should conform to; they knew in whom dwells the fullness of Godhead bodily.

What name terrifies the demonic fold? What name carries authority? “Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ (Yahweh Saviour) to come out of her” (Acts 16:18). And the demon, came out the same hour. And it was a verbally uttered formula that did it. In the book of Acts, chapter 4 we can see how the apostolic prayer was concluded: “that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus” (Acts 4:30); and “when they had prayed the place was shaken where they were assembled” (v.31).

1. Healing and expelling demons were done verbally in Jesus’ Name.
2. Praying in Jesus’ Name was also verbal.
3. Our prayers are now concluded in Jesus’ Name.

Nonetheless, some show such reluctance and oppose baptizing “in Jesus’ Name”, I wonder why? Who do we want to join people to? To a denomination or Christ? No wonder, the present-day churches have gone lukewarm; no wonder the devils won’t leave; no wonder the healings stopped; no wonder there is no holy living.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  A dearth of knowledge on the divinity of Christ is what engendered such variance. I pray this school of thought would neutralize the prevailing polarity that exists within the Christendom: “I baptize you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ in whom dwells all fullness – Col 1:19; in whom dwells all the fullness of the Godhead* (the Greek word is “theotes” which means “divinity”)(The Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost – the titles given to the one true God) *bodily – Col 2:9”. It then concludes that for now the totality of divinity (God) is in Christ until…..1Cor 15:28.

When addressing someone (a person) or using them as names, family titles like Mom and Dad are capitalized; otherwise, they are lowercase. If you use words like mom and dad as common nouns—that is, not in place of a person’s name—you do not uppercase them. Example: Thanks, Mom and Dad! I thought Mom and Dad would attend the ceremony. But I thought your mom and dad would be here.

Likewise, when you see capitalized titles of God: The Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost, it is denoting three PERSONS of the Godhead, not the names. God is One; these three are One – 1 John 5:7; yet three distinct persons, but one name. That name is Jesus Christ; the great God and Saviour – Titus 2:13/1 Timothy 6:14-16. And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 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 pre-eminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell – Colossians 1:17-19/2:9.

It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him. Now if we are dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him – 2 Tim 2:11/Rom 6:8 – being made conformable unto his death – Phil 3:10.

The water baptism is an answer of a good conscience toward God and the sign of being buried with Christ in baptism into death – 1Pet 3:21/Rom 6:4/Col 2:12. Precious Holy Ghost baptized us into the body of Christ (through the faith of the operation of God – Col 2:12)(1Cor 12:13); but the water baptism is an outward expression of the bestowed inward grace. It is the seal or signature of your volition. Through baptism, we proclaim to the world that we are crucified with Christ – Gal 2:20 and that the world is crucified unto us and us unto the world – Gal 6:14. And henceforth we live not unto (to and for) ourselves, but unto (to and for) him, which died for us, and rose again – 2Cor 5:15. We by means of baptism are committing ourselves to Christ by that solemn promise (Pledge of Allegiance – Rom 10:9 – a solemn oath of loyalty or commitment to Christ and his kingdom – Col 1:13).

Baptism was practiced by the first-century Christians as a kind of initiatory rite and was given ‘into’ the name of Jesus, to whom a believer would be joined. To whom are we intended to join? To Christ, right? Joined unto the Lord (1 Cor 6:17; baptized into Christ (Gal 3:27). Why is it crucial? Because we are BURIED WITH him by baptism into death – Rom 6:3-11; planted together in the likeness of his death – Rom 6:5; our old man is crucified with him, that henceforth we should not serve sin – Rom 6:6. For he that is dead is freed from sin (Romans 6:7,11). Simply put, through baptism we are conforming to the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ – Col 2:12/Phil 3:10/Eph 2:6; thus we reckon that we have passed from death unto life (1 John 3:14). Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? (Rom 6:3)

In the Old Testament, they were baptized ‘unto’ (eis) Moses, but in the New, we’ve been commanded to be baptized ‘into’ the Lord Jesus Christ.

And he said unto them, unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance* (baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel – Acts 13:24,38)(repent from what? for the remission of past sins! Rom 3:25/ to be redeemed of the transgressions that were under the first testament – Heb 9:15), *saying unto the people, that they should believe on him, which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 19:3-5/18:24-26). This baptism for the believing Jew or Gentile (even now) stands for the gesture of his affiliation to Christ (1Pet 3:21/Col 2:12/Rom 6:4). This is the New Testament mandate for all (Jew and Gentile) to become a part of this one new man (Eph 2:15); as lively stones built up as a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ – 1 Peter 2:5; In whom all the building fitly framed together grows unto a holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are built together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. – Ephesians 2:21,22.

Be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON the name of the Lord – Acts 22:16; and they were baptized, he and all his, straightway – Acts 16:33.

1. Sins are remitted in His name. Jesus’ instruction was that SIN REMISSION BE PREACHED IN HIS NAME (Luke 24:47).The Apostles’ ministries confirmed their conviction that EVERY CONVERT should be baptized in the NAME of JESUS Christ.“Repent,” he said, “and be baptized EVERY ONE OF YOU in the NAME of JESUS Christ for the remission of sins, and ye SHALL receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38), (the gift, being the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues).Peter’s requirement to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ was in direct obedience to Jesus’ command in Luke 24:47.On arrival, Ananias directed Saul to “Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, CALLING ON the NAME of the LORD”, (Acts 22:16).Peter repeatedly commanded baptism in Jesus’ name And he COMMANDED them to be baptized in the NAME of the Lord” (Acts 10:47,48).The emphasis is on the fact that the NAME of JESUS is the SAVING NAME of God. We call upon the SAVING NAME to be saved.Peter said, “Whosoever shall CALL on the NAME of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21).Paul taught them that they were to “believe on him who should come after John, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the NAME of the LORD JESUS.

Baptism by immersion, infant baptism, or sprinkling holds no merit if it is not an outcome of one’s faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He that ‘believes and is baptized’ is the mode. He who believes not is already condemned. Baptism should be an outward act of an inward experience. Baptism itself won’t save a person but faith that precedes baptism does.

To the holy Apostles of the lamb, without calling on the name of the Lord Jesus, the water baptism was actually null and invalid.

As Jesus said:

At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you (John 14:20).