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Baptism in Father, Son, Holy Ghost or Jesus Name?

 Submitted: 8/1/2005
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Question: My friend is confused about the Oneness of God and why Jesus often refers to 'my Father' even though Jesus is actually the Father. He believes that Baptism in titles is acceptable, i.e. Father, Son, and Holy Ghost as it says in Matthew 28.19 by Christ Jesus Himself, however Acts 2.38 says we must be baptised in the Name of Jesus! I know Baptism MUST be done in Jesus name, but how do I convince him?
Answer: You might try using the analogy of a check. It goes like this: I am a father because I have children. I am a son because I have parents. And I am a husband because I have a wife. Each of these titles pertains to a particular relationship in my life. Now if I were to write you a check for $10,000.00 and sign it father, son, and husband, would the bank cash my check? No! There are many men who are a father, a son, and a husband. What designates me in particular is my name. By simply signing my name on a check I can transfer $10,000.oo of my money to you. The authority to do so is in my name. I may have many titles, but I have only one name.

Jesus told His disciples to baptize in THE NAME (singular) of this God who is revealed as Father, in the flesh as Son, and in action as the Holy Spirit. Three ministries, but one God. The question is, what is THE NAME? We know what His titles are, but what is His NAME? Since every instance where someone is baptized in the book of Acts the Bible specifically mentions the name JESUS and never once mentions the titles, it is obvious that this One who is at once Father, Son, and Spirit is JESUS. The authority is in the NAME! (See Acts 2:38; 8:12-16; 10:44-48; 19:1-6; 22:16)

'There is no other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved' (Acts 4:12)

We have several good articles on this subject in the Apostolic Free Library, Shelf 1. Perhaps your friend would be willing to read some of them.


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