Understanding the Meaning of Baptism - 'IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER AND OF THE SON AND OF THE HOLY SPIRIT"

 Jesus demanded that the new disciples be baptized "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit." (Read Matthew 28:18-20.) What did he mean? In the Bible, the word for "name" often refers to someone's reputation. It can also refer to the position and the authority represented by a name. So when we do something "in the name of" someone or something, we recognize the authority behind that name. (Compare Matthew 10:41; see study note on "because he is prophet.") Consider how you can recognize the position and the authority of the Father and of the Son as well as the role of God's holy spirit.

In the name of the Father.  We acknowledge Jehovah s our heavenly Father, or Life Giver. He is the almighty God, the Creator of all things.  (Read Revelation 4:11.)  We recognize him as the Hearer of prayer. and we use his personal name respectfully and freely when we pray to him and speak to others about him. (Psalm 65:2) Yet, more is involved in getting baptized in the name of the Father. Peter's listeners at Pentecost already knew about Jehovah, but they now needed to recognize him as the loving Provider of everlasting salvation through Jesus Christ. - ROMANS 5:8. 

Next time: Understanding the Meaning of Baptism - "IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER AND OF THE SON AND OF THE HOLY SPIRIT" - Conclusion 

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