You’d want to know, wouldn’t you?

Matthew 28:19 states: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” 

Have you ever attended a baptism where the baptizer says, “In the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit?” Have you noticed that every baptism incorporates these words?

Well, it’s certainly biblical, but do we have to say those words? What happens if they’re not said? Is the one baptized not saved because the baptizer didn’t say the words?

Well, we must realize that the baptizer is only aiding the person being baptized. He is not baptizing the person by his own authority.

When we say the words, “In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” we recognize that God gives the authority for baptism. It’s as if Jesus is saying, “You may baptize this person in My name, by My authority.” 

“In the name of…” shows by what authority an action is done. So, at the time of the baptism, we’re saying, “I baptized you by the authority of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit.”

Some add the words, “for the forgiveness of sins.” Saying that explains the reason for the baptism for the baptized and others present. Acts 2:38 states that repentance and baptism are necessary for salvation and being added to Jesus’ church. Acts 22:16, Ananias tells Paul to arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord. Acts 22:16 is in keeping with Acts 2:38. 

Baptism is necessary to wash away sins. The words show by whose authority the baptism is done.

By: Garland Van Dyke

Where: Matthews St. church of Christ, Bay City, TX 77414

Contact us: PO Box 1522, Bay City, TX, 77414

On the web: www.matthewsstreetchurchofchrist

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