Why Should You Be Baptized in Jesus name? from Paogin Mangte's blog

 "Then Peter said unto to them, Repent, 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). Rev. 22:14"Blessed are they that DO His Commandments that they may have right to the Tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." 

 INTRODUCTION: In Jesus name, We invite everyone to open their hearts and their Bibles in the name of Jesus our LORD, for we believe that truth is its own best defense. The Bereans exemplified the "more noble" course of action, "in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11). The will of God also includes our being baptized in Jesus name for the forgiveness of our sins,so that we can be saved and go to heaven! In Mark 16:16 Jesus says, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved, but he who does not believe will be condemned." This is such a simple command to obey in the way the Lord says to do it. Notice the divine order: 1) Believe + 2) Baptism = 3) Saved. Jesus says that both belief and baptism are required to be saved. But men, at the prompting of Satan, are trying to tell us many other different things that are contrary to what Jesus says. Men have taken what the Lord said, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved," and have changed it in every way possible to suit themselves. With a Christian Love, and humbly, I invite everyone to open their hearts and their Bibles in the name of Jesus our LORD, for we believe that truth is its own best defense. The Bereans exemplified the "more noble" course of action, "in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (Acts 17:11). ======================================================== *****The following is what the Bible says and also ways in which man has tried to change what the Lord Jesus has said:- ======================================================== # Some common Trinitarian traditions of men vs. the Word of God ( The Bible way): ======================================================= The Bible says: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved “ (Mark 16:16). Trinitarian -Denominations teach: He who believes and is saved, should be baptized- It could be merely Sprinkling or some Catholic Trinitarianism man-made doctrine says--Water baptism is correctly administered by saying "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." The Bible says: “Repent and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins” (Acts 2:38). We know, The Bible gives only Jesus name baptism formula and no other (Acts 10:43). Indeed, The apostolic church adhered to only Jesus name baptism formula (Acts 2:38; 8:16; 10:48; 19:5; 22:16; I Corinthians 1:13). and no other! Trinitarian -Denominations teach: Repent and be baptized in Trinity Formula- because your sins have already been forgiven The Bible Says: ‘Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’ (John 3:5).\ Some Trinitarian -Denominations teach: Baptism is not essential for salvation. This “birth of water” is natural childbirth. The Bible says: “We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4). Trinitarian-Denominations teach: We were buried therefore with him by belief into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. The Bible says: “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:4-5). Some Trinitarian-Denominations teach: There are many baptisms and many bodies, and many many faiths. The Bible says: “…who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water is a symbol of baptism, which now saves you - not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God, it saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”(1Peter 3:21) Note: Look at the above verse carefully. It teaches the water of Noah’s flood is a symbol of baptism--and baptism saves us. The “it” in the phrase “it saves you” is referring to baptism…So this verse actually states two times that baptism saves us! Most Trinitarian Denominations teach: Baptism does not save you--baptism is merely a symbol. The Bible says: “and you were buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12). Most Trinitarian-Denominations teach: Baptism is a work of Man. The Bible says: “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for as many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” (Galatians 3:26-27). Trinitarian Denominations teach: Baptism does not put us into Christ--belief alone does. The Bible says: “Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, "See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?" Then Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. Now when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing.” (Acts 8:36-39). Most Trinitarian Denominations teach: Baptism is required, but not in water. Baptism is in “spirit”. And if water is used, sprinkling or pouring is ok. And candidate for baptism need not believe (such as with infants). The Bible says: “And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name.” (Acts 22:16). Trinitarian Denominations teach: Paul had been praying and fasting for three days at this point, and called Jesus “Lord”, so he was already saved. Baptism had nothing to do with having his sins washed away. The Bible says: “You see that a person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.” (James 2:24). Trinitarian Denominations teach: We are justified by faith alone. Who are you following? Are you following 1) Jesus, 2) the Catholic Man-made doctrine? We can go to heaven only by following what Jesus says and not what man and Tradition says. Today is the day of salvation (2Cor 6:2). If you don’t abide in Jesus’ doctrine (Apostles doctrine- Acts 2:38-42) - you don’t have God (2Jn 1:9). If you don’t have Jesus, you don’t have GOD The Father (1Jn 2:22-23). You will not get to God or to heaven, except through JESUS OUR LORD ( Acts 4:12; Jn 14:6-11). If you don’t believe that Jesus is the One True God (John 8:24; Isaiah 9:6; 44:6; Rev 1:8) , then you will in your sins- John 8:24, it means you don’t believe God’s Word ( John 5:39; Acts 10:43;Gal 1:8-9). If you don’t believe God’s Word ( Rev 22:18-19), Please don’t call yourself a Christian - Christianity is based on God’s Word (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38-47; Rev 22:18-19; Ephesians 4:5; Gal 1:8-9; II Timothy 3;16-17; I Timothy 3:16-17; John 5:39,45-46). True Biblical Christians today, should use the biblical baptismal formula as found in the New Testament ( In the Holy Bible). Everyone should be baptized by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins according to the Bible way ( Lk 24:47; Acts 2:38;22:16; 19:5; 10:48; Romans 6:3-5; Gal 3;27; Col 3:17; Acts 4:12; Zechariah 14:9).! MY FRIENDS, THERE IS NO TRINITY OF GODS TO BE FOUND ANYWHERE IN THE WRITTEN WORD OF GOD ( John 5:39;I Tim 3;16; Rev 22:18-19;Col 2:9-10). The testimony of history, as well as the testimony of scripture, shows us the truly idolatrous nature of the Trinity doctrine and why we must not even “touch” such an unclean thing! THE VERY WORD TRINITY IS NOT FOUND IN THE SCRIPTURES. SCRIPTURE ALWAYS INTERPRETS SCRIPTURE. IT IS GREED FOR POWER, MONEY, AND PEOPLE, THAT KEEPS THE TRINITY DOCTRINE IN MOST CHURCHES TODAY. "TRUTH IS A REVELATION... WHERE IT IS NOT WELCOME, CARNALITY REIGNS." The doctrine of a Trinity is recognized and described by its most fervent teachers as being a "mystery beyond explanation or conception". It is nothing else BUT CONFUSION PAGAN DOCTRINE- ABSOLUTE UN-BIBLICAL TEACHING! John 14: 9. "Have I been with you all this time, Philip .., and you still do not know Me? To have seen Me, is to have seen the Father, so, how can you say, 'Let us see the Father'? Do you not believe in Me? (verse 7) If you know Me, you know My Father too. From this moment you know Him and have seen Him." John 8: 24 "... You will DIE in your sins, yes, if you do not believe that I AM HE - (YAHVEH) you WILL DIE IN YOUR SINS." Isa. 4I:4 "... I YAHVEH, Who am the First, and will be with the Last; I AM HE." The Bible confirmed that Jesus is the Everlasting Father, First and the Last,Yahweh, The Mighty God, the One True God- Col 2:9-10. Isa. 9:6 "For unto us a child is born .., and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty Almighty, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Rev. 22:13"1 AM the Alpha and the Omega, the FIRST AND THE LAST, the Beginning and the End. " Isa. 44:6 ' "Thus says Israel's king and his Redeemer, YHVH Sabaoth: I AM THE FIRST AND THE LAST; there is NO other God besides ME." Isa. 48:12 "Listen to me, Jacob, Israel whom I have called: I AM THE FIRST, I AM ALSO THE LAST." None the less, Trinitarians limit their Messiah to the "SECOND Person" only! But the Bible stated that Jesus is : He is the FIRST, i,e, the FATHER, the second, the third .. . "the eleventh" .. . "the millionth" ... AND THE LAST? Wow!!!! The apostles, who were personally taught and enlightened by Messiah, administered Baptism in "the NAME of JESUS CHRIST " - which is the Name of the Father and the Name of the Son and also the Name of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 28:19).READ this confirmed fact in Acts 2:38; 10,:44-48; Luke 24:47; Acts 4:2; 8:12- l6; 19:1-6; Rom. 6:3; Gal. 3:27.6. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The following is Our Answers to some common arguments critics often use in an attempt to nullify the need for baptism in the name of Jesus Christ- Luke 24:47; Acts 2:38;10:43;22:16; Gal 3:27; Acts 19:2-5): ======================================================= # 1.The Thief on the Cross (Calvary). Three scriptural reasons why this is an invalid argument Some will ask, “Well, what about the thief on the cross? He wasn't baptized and Jesus very clearly told him he would be in paradise. Doesn't that prove baptism in not essential for salvation?” This is a perfectly valid question and makes sense at first glance. However, the problem arises from not having a clear understanding of what baptism represents and what the scriptures tell us about it. According to Romans 6:3-6, baptism represents being unified with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection. The problem with the thief on the calvary, when Jesus told him he would be with Him in paradise, is that Jesus was still alive. Christ had not yet died or been buried, so He had certainly not risen yet either. Baptism into Christ, baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, was not put into practice until Pentecost in Acts chapter 2 after Christ had risen from the dead and ascended to heaven( Luke 24:47; Acts 2:38; 19:5). I) The thief on the cross was still under the Old Covenant and therefore not subject to this Jesus name baptism ( Read Luke 24:47; Mathew 28:19; Mark 16:15-16;Acts 2:38-47; The baptism of Jesus name starts from the day of Pentecost for all Nations). Hence, He was saved just like anyone else under the Old Covenant. II) But besides that, when Christ was on this earth, He had the authority to forgive people of their sins. Look at Mark 2:9-12: Which is easier, to tell the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven;' or to say, 'Arise, and take up your bed, and walk? 'But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" -- he said to the paralytic -- "I tell you, arise, take up your mat, and go to your house." He arose, and immediately took up the mat, and went out in front of them all; so that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, "We never saw anything like this!" When Christ was on the calvary, He was still on this earth. And He had the authority to forgive sins. III) An additional point to consider: To even position the argument about the thief on the cross one must be able to prove he was never baptized. But consider the following verses: Mark 1:4-5: John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. Then ALL the land of Judea, and those from Jerusalem, went out to him and were all baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins. So who can really say the thief was never baptized before he was crucified? According to Mark 1:4-5 there is a plausible chance the thief on the calvary was baptized according to John's baptism, ( Acts 19:2-5, we know Paul re-baptized John's Disciples in Jesus name in Acts 19:4-7). # II. Some people says, “We are not saved by baptism; we are saved by grace.” Indeed, we are saved by grace. But just what is ‘grace’? The Oxford American Dictionary defines grace as: God’s loving mercy toward mankind. Other words that may be found in a thesaurus as synonyms for “grace” include: mercy, favor, kindness, blessing, and compassion.And it is because of God’s mercy, His favor, His kindness, His blessing and His compassion that He has provided mankind with a salvation plan! We are saved by God’s mercy. We do not deserve the blessings God has given us. • Ephesians 2:4-9 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast. Baptism in Jesus name,in no way minimizes or nullifies God’s grace as some critics argue that baptism does. They make this argument because they do not understand the role baptism plays in God’s salvation plan. Baptism in Jesus name confirms and verifies God’s grace to us! God’s grace is manifested in baptism- READ MK 16:16; I Peter 3:20-21! And after we are baptized, His grace continues to cover us. Notice this passage says: God made us alive in Christ when we were dead—and this is God’s grace. God raised us up with Christ God expresses His grace to mankind by giving us Christ Jesus God’s grace is through faith. When did God make us alive when we were dead, and raise us up with Christ? What is Paul talking about? Romans 6:3-5 describes just such a scenario-- when we were dead in sin and God raised us up with Christ: “Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his”. An Analogy of Grace and Faith : Here is an analogy that may help to put what we have learned into perspective. Suppose Peter tells Jack "Meet me at the bank tomorrow morning at 11:00 A.M. and I will give you $1,000." (This is a condition for receiving the gift.) If Jack really believes Peter, he will appear at the appointed place and time. (Faith necessarily produces trust, response, and reliance) If Jack shows up, has he thereby earned the money? Of course not, because the money is a free gift. Yet his appearance is a necessary condition that must be met in order to receive the gift. (Grace on Peter’s part, faith on Jack’s part.) If Jack fails to show up, he will not receive the gift and the responsibility for the failure will fall totally upon him. (Lack of faith in the promise.) Similarly, we must respond to God in faith by seeking repentance, remission of sins at water baptism in Jesus name, according to Acts 2:38-41; Acts 10:44-48, Therefore Jesus said, “He that believeth and baptized shall be saved” (Mk 16:16) also read I Peter 3:20-21. If we do, God will graciously grant our petition, and we will receive salvation totally as a free gift and not as an earned right. If we do not respond in obedience to God's Word, we will not receive salvation, and the blame will rest totally upon us. The Bible says that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). And when we had sinned and were dead, and had received only what we deserved, God in His mercy and grace provided a way for us to be saved— God was manifested in the Flesh to in order to saved us ( I Timothy 3:16) and according to First John 3:1, 5 states that the Father loved us and was manifested to take away our sins, yet we know it was Christ who was manifested in the world to take away sin (John 1:29-31). And without Jesus, baptism is meaningless- Therefore, baptism formula MUST be only in the name of Jesus Christ-( READ- Lk 24:47; Acts 10:43; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Col 3;17). Jesus name is the only saving name ( Acts 4:12). Baptism, coupled with faith, is the means by which we become unified with Christ. Baptism is how we are “put into” Christ( Gal 3:27). We should be grateful and thankful beyond measure that God has provided a salvation plan for us who deserve nothing but death. We are saved by God. We are saved by grace. We are saved by faith. We are saved by baptism (1 Peter 3:21). We are saved by all of these combined because in baptism God’s grace is manifested through our faith. In baptism ( The Bible way baptism in Jesus name- Acts 2;38), God’s salvation plan to mankind—which is purely a gift by His grace-- becomes a reality. Are we not saved by faith? We must believe just as we must be baptized. Yet those who argue baptism is a “work” will never argue believing is a work! But believing is something we must do! Jesus answered, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent."—John 6:29. Are we not saved by grace? Of course we are! Baptism is just one component of God’s salvation plan. Are we not saved by God’s salvation plan? Baptism is the manifestation of God’s grace. It is the materialization of God’s salvation plan in an individual’s life. When combined with faith and repentance, baptism, Peter says, saves us! ( I Peter 3:20-21). If we say we are not saved by baptism in Jesus name, Then, we are saying we are not saved by God’s salvation plan ( Read Luke 24:47;John 3:5; Mk 16:16; Acts 22:38; 2:38-39). Here is yet another hint: Acts 20:24-27: However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. "Now I know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again. Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. Notice how Paul talks about the good news of God’s grace and then in the very next breath talks about the kingdom. We know from John 3:3-5 that we enter the kingdom of God through baptism in Jesus name ( John 3:5; Gal 3:17; Acts 2:38-47)! And what is the will of God? 1Timothy 2:3-4 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. God wants everyone to be saved and to know the truth. It is by God’s abundant mercy and grace that he provides us with a way out of the darkness. His salvation plan is available to every human being! His invitation is extended to everybody and it is by His grace that anyone gets an invitation at all. Yet even though His salvation is open to all, we must each, individually, respond to this invitation, to His grace, and to His call. We do this by believing, by repenting, by confessing our faith in Christ and by being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, so that our sins will be forgiven- receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit- John 3:5;Acts 22:16; 2:38! # III. Some protest the need for baptism, saying something like “But Paul said he was not sent to baptize…”(1Corinthians 1:17). Let’s first look at the whole passage in question: 1Corinthians 1:10-17:- Verse-10 I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. Verse-11My brothers, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. Verse -12What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Verse-13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized into the name of Paul? Verse- 14 I am thankful that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15so no one can say that you were baptized into my name. Verse-16(Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I don't remember if I baptized anyone else.) Verse- 17For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel--not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. The following quote is taken from Biblelessons.com : “In 1 Corinthians 1:10ff, Paul condemns the Christians at Corinth for their division. Apparently many were holding an improper allegiance to the one who baptized them (verse 12). In verse 14, Paul stated that he was therefore thankful that he had baptized only a few there in Corinth. He did not seek any particular status in the minds of those who were baptized; it made no difference to him who actually did the baptizing. He says in verse 17 and in Acts 9:15 that Jesus had called him to preach. Others could do the baptizing as well as Paul, but not necessarily the preaching. # Remember John 4:1-2 says that Jesus made and baptized many disciples, but it was His disciples that actually did the physical act of baptizing. Was Paul saying that baptism is not important? Certainly not. Remember it was Paul who said that we put on Christ in baptism (Galatians 3:27). Actually, the passage is very consistent in showing that baptism is very important. It is obvious that the Christians in Corinth had been baptized; this is inferred in 1 Corinthians 1:13 and stated in Acts 18:8. And Paul, in this passage, actually indicates that two things are required before a person may call himself after another person. First, Paul would have to die for that person; and second, that person would have to be baptized in the name of Paul. This actually parallels perfectly with Biblical teaching that Christ has died for us, and we rightfully call ourselves Christians when we put Christ on in baptism.” ( Gal 3:27). The divisions that were occurring with the Corinthians apparently got started because they were placing improper importance and significance on who baptized them. Whether it was Paul or some other teacher, it did not matter. But notice something very important about Paul’s words that actually demonstrate the necessity of baptism: To re-state, according to verse 13, in order to be called after Christ, at least two things must happen: 1.) Christ must die for that person (which He did) 2.) That person must be baptized into the name of Christ! (According to Acts 2:38). If one has not been baptized into Christ- In the name of Jesus Christ, then, one cannot rightfully call themselves a Christian, because we united with Christ through baptism into Christ and we also clothes with Christ through baptism in His name- Read. Romans 6:3-5; Gal 3:27! Even though Paul may have only baptized a few of the Corinthians himself, personally, they ALL were baptized! (Read: 1 Corinthians 12:13; Gal 3:27-29). For additional consideration: When Paul says, “Not to baptize but to preach the gospel,” he is using a common element of Greek syntax, the “ou . . . alla (not . . . but) construction. There are a number of places in the NT where not… but does not negate one of the two items under consideration. Instead, it prioritizes them. For example, Peter tells Ananias, “You have not lied to men but to God”. Of course He had lied to men, but most importantly he had lied to God. In a similar way Paul is saying, “I came first and most importantly to preach the gospel, then to Baptize.” This further emphasizes that faith and repentance are to precede baptism ( Acts 2:38; Luke 24:47). # IV. Some protest the need for baptism, saying something like “But God has answered my prayers for a long time, so how could I not be saved?” Answered prayer is not “proof” we are saved. God answers prayers of unsaved people all the time. That is how loving, caring, all-powerful, all-knowing, merciful, and perfect God is. “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” –Matthew 5:45. When God answers our prayers even before we are saved, He is drawing us to Him. When we reach out for God, He does not push us away. He answers so we will know He is there. He answers so we will know he is real. He answers so we will believe He exists. God answers so we will continue to seek after Him. It is not unusual for God to hear the prayers of people that are seeking Him, even before they are saved. See Cornelius in Acts chapter 10: Verses 30-33 says:- Cornelius answered: "Four days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me and said, 'Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner,who lives by the sea.' So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come.Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us." God not only heard Cornelius’ prayer before he was saved, He sent an angel in response to provide him with more information through Peter! Peter later told Cornelius the rest of the message so that he could be saved. Jesus warned us that even miracles performed in His name does not mean we are saved: Matthew 7:21-23: "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' In the above verse, how could these people cast out demons unless they pray? How could they perform any of these works without prayer? Notice Jesus does not deny they did these things. But Jesus tells them to depart because they did not do His will. How do we know what God’s will is? By reading the Scriptures (Bible- II Tim 3:16-17) and doing what they say. Think about this: If God did not answer our prayers at all before we were saved, how would we ever find Him? **Imagine a parent that looses their child in a store. Does the parent not cry out and call to that lost child? And when the child hears his mother or father, does he not run in the direction of that voice?** That is what God does with us! And, in God’s eyes, we are not considered found until we are in Christ: • Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? –Romans 6:3 • For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for as many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. -- Galatians 3:26-27 • For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body…1Corinthians 12:13. # V . Some people says..we are saved simply when we believe Jesus and call upon His name…”Calling on the name of the Lord” Often times people will quote Romans 10:13 (“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”) not understanding what it means to “call on the name of the Lord” biblically. This verse in Romans 10:13 is actually a quote of Joel 2:32. This is the same exact verse the apostle Peter quoted in Acts chapter 2 at the Day of Pentecost. (Acts 2:21). In Acts 2, we see that after Peter quotes them the verse in Joel they still ask Peter, (in Acts 2:37) “Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter does not respond by telling them to say a Sinner's prayer for SALVATION? No!!!. Peter does not lead them in any prayer! Instead PETER tells them what they must do to be saved. Peter gives them the answer mankind needs so desperately to hear. Peter declared to them, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Verse 39--The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off--for all whom the Lord our God will call." Verse--40-With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Verse-41-Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day”. (Acts 2:38-41). The Bible tells us what it means “to call on the name of the Lord”. To “call on the name of the Lord” is equated with repentance and baptism into Christ’s name- Read-- Acts 22:16!. “Calling on the name of the Lord” being equated with baptism is further reinforced in Acts 22:16 says, “And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.'” James says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (James 1:22). # VI. WHAT ABOUT John 3:16? "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life? John 3:16--is perhaps the most often quoted verse in the New Testament. It is often isolated and set apart from the rest of the dialogue in which it took place. Dear Friends, Please remember! To “believe in Jesus” means to believe the gospel message, and baptism is a part of that gospel message ( I Cor 15:1-4; Romans 6:3-5; Acts 2;37-41).. It must also be remembered this verse is only one small part of a much larger conversation that Jesus had with Nicodemus. Verse 16 (of chapter 3) deals with faith JESUS. Repentance is talked about in regards to the snake that was lifted up and then again in verses 19-21. Verses 3 and 5 deal with baptism. This shows the importance of looking at the overall picture and not focusing in on any single verse or passage. Furthermore, the NIV is the only translation that uses the word “shall” in John 3:16. All other translations render this verse, “…whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” The NIV erroneously takes a “maybe” and turns it into a “will be”. According to James, faith alone, by itself, will not save us: James 2:19-20 says:- "You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that--and shudder. You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless?" Now that we can clearly see that-----Faith must have actions to back it up with!!! Amen! # VI. WHAT ABOUT Acts 16:30-31--He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household." This verse is often quoted but then the questioner stops short right in the middle of the story. People like to quote verses 30 and 31 but they don’t quote verses 32 and 33. Those very next two verses state that the Word of the Lord was preached to them and then they were immediately baptized. We know from James 2:19-20 that the jailer did not stop once he had a belief in Jesus. Indeed, there was more as verses 32-33 illustrate so clearly. See Acts 16:16-33 for more detail. It does no good to tell someone about baptism IN JESUS NAME---unless they are first told the message of Jesus Christ. The first step is to believe, then baptism will be effectual. Faith in Christ is what gives baptism its significance. Obviously, it does no good to tell someone to get baptized IN JESUS NAME-( ACTS 2:17-42) unless they have first heard the message of the Calvary and the story of Jesus. # VII. What about Romans 10:9-10, “That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. Remember first, Paul just finished explaining in Romans chapter 6, and in great detail, the role of baptism in Jesus name. This verse does not nullify that chapter. But it is of significance, however, to note the commentary on this verse in the NIV study Bible that states, --“Jesus is Lord”, the earliest confession of Christian faith, probably used at baptism.” The verbal confession of faith that Jesus is the Christ is made at baptism, and is what is seen in the case of the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8. Notice the eunuch asks to be baptized and Philip tells him “if you believe with all your heart, you may.” And then the Ethiopian eunuch confesses faith in Christ with his mouth, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” He is then baptized. REMEMBER!!!! Notice belief never stands alone, by itself. There is always some other action associated with it. Jesus started preaching by telling us to “repent and believe the Good News.” Jesus also said in Luke 13:3 that unless we repent we will all perish. Therefore Jesus said, ‘ He that believeth and baptized shall be saved “ ( Mk 16:16). Looking at it from another angle, notice also that baptism always has something else tied to it: ***Believing (John 3:3-5;16;Acts 8:37; Mark 16:16). ***Repentance (Acts 2:38) { Luke 13:3,5). ***Confession of faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 8:36-37). Which all leads to: Being baptized in the name of JESUS CHRIST (Immersion water baptism) for the forgiveness of sins ( Acts 22:16; Acts 2:38; 10:43)- and to received the gift of the Holy Spirit-Acts 2:38!!! This is where we get: 1.) Hear the Word 2.) Believe 3.) Repent of our sins 4.) Confess faith in Christ 5.) Be baptized in the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of sins and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit- Acts 2:38! It’s that simple? ## Does the Immersion Baptism and its baptismal Formula Really Matter? I would say-- a Thousands time-Yes!!!!! Because-THE BIBLE SAYS SO! Open your Bible and Read: ***JOHN 3:5 "Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God." Most Bible commentaries agree that water here refers to baptism. ***MARK 16:16- "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved." Notice how Jesus places baptism in conjunction with salvation. ***I PETER 3:21-"Baptism doth also now save us." Also see Acts 10:6, 48. We know that,The Early Church, including Matthew, carried out Christ's instructions by baptizing in the name of Jesus (Acts 2:38; 8:16; 10:48; 19:5; 22:16; I Corinthians 1:13). Everyone should use the biblical mode formula. If the name Jesus was not called over someone at baptism, he should be re-baptized in the name of Jesus Christ according to Acts 2:38;19:2-7). ## The Historical Record Respected historical sources verify that the early Christian church did not use a threefold baptismal formula but invoked the name of Jesus in baptism well into the second and third centuries:- • Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics (1951), II, 384, 389: "The formula used was 'in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ' or some synonymous phrase; there is no evidence for the use of the trine name. . . . The earliest form, represented in the Acts, was simple immersion . . . in water, the use of the name of the Lord, and the laying on of hands. To these were added, at various times and places which cannot be safely identified, (a) the trine name (Justin), . . " • Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible (1962), I, 351: "The evidence ...suggests that baptism in early Christianity was administered, not in the threefold name, but 'in the name of Jesus Christ' or 'in the name of the Lord Jesus'." • Otto Heick, A History of Christian Thought (1965), I, 87: "At first baptism was administered in the name of Jesus, but gradually in the name of the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit." • Hastings's Dictionary of the Bible (1898), I, 24-1: "(One could conclude that) the original form of words was 'into the name of Jesus Christ' or 'the Lord Jesus: Baptism into the name of the Trinity was a later development." • Williston Walker, A History of the Christian Church (1947), page 58: The trinitarian baptismal formula . . . was displacing the older baptism in the name of Christ." • The New Schaff-Herzog Religious Encyclopedia (1957), I, 435: "The New Testament knows only baptism in the name of Jesus . . . , which still occurs even in the second and third centuries." • " Canney's Encyclopedia of Religions (1970), page 53: "Persons were baptized at first 'in the name of Jesus Christ' . . . or 'in the name of the Lord Jesus: . . . . Afterwards, with the development of the doctrine of the Trinity, they were baptized 'in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost'." • Encyclopedia Bibilca (1899), I 4-73: "It is natural to conclude that baptism was administered in the earliest times 'in the name of Jesus Christ; or 'in the name of the Lord Jesus: . . . This view is confirmed by the fact that the earliest forms of the baptismal confession appear to have been single-not triple, as was the later creed." • The Catholic Encyclopedia, II, 263: "The baptismal formula was changed from the name of Jesus Christ to the words Father, Son, and Holy Spirit by the Catholic Church in the second century." CONCLUSION: As a Christians, today we, MUST use the biblical baptismal formula as found in the New Testament. Everyone should be baptized by immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins. You can Abuse us, if you will, but to us there is one God, and as Jesus said in Revelation 1:8 (ISAIAH 44:6; REV 4:8; REV 1:8), THAT JESUS is the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY. That is our faith and if you want to judge and condemn us for our faith, we are proud to be persecuted, denied, and hated for the name of Jesus Christ, who is God Almighty, the Alpha and Omega. GET THIS FACT RIGHT ! May I ask you readers; important is it that you have the right Jesus Christ? Jesus Himself said it best, "Unless you believe that I AM you will die in your sins."(John 8:24). If you believe Jesus already, then what are you waiting? Arise and be baptized in Jesus name and washes away your sins- Acts 22:16! Acts 20:28 says that God purchased the church with His own blood. Won't you check these things out? Your eternal life will depend on it. If you have the right Jesus Christ, you are right for all eternity. If you have the wrong Jesus Christ, you are wrong for all eternity. Through the name Jesus (NOT TRINITY) WE HAVE VICTORY ALWAYS (Mk 16:17; Acts 3:6; Col 3:17; AcT 4:12), Therefore, God reveals Himself fully. To the extent that we see, know, honor, believe, and receive Jesus, to that extent we see, know, honor, believe, and receive God the Father (John 5:23; 8:19; 12:44-45; 13:20; 14:7-9). FINALLY, REMEMBER!If we deny Jesus, we deny the Father (I John 2:23),whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also, Because Deity of Jesus is the Father ( Jn 14:7-11; 10:30; Col 2:9-10). If we acknowledge that Jesus is God manifested in the flesh as the Bible teaches (Colossians 2:9; I Timothy 3: 16), then we must affirm that as God He always had divine glory, never lost it, and never needed anyone else to give it to Him. What did He mean, then, when He said, "Glorify thou me . . . with the glory which I had with thee before the world was"? AND WHEN WE use the name of Jesus we glorify the Father (Colossians 3:17). DEAR FRIENDS, Let us remember that, We do not fulfill our ministry by name calling, denunciations, and anathemas, but seek to share with the world God's great gift of salvation that He has made available in Jesus Christ- JOHN 14:6-11; COL 3:17. With the apostle Paul, we say, "After the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers. believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets" (Acts 24:14). We remember that Jesus said, "Ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake" (Matthew 10:22). Nevertheless, like the apostles, we can go our way "rejoicing [to be] counted worthy to suffer shame for his name" (Acts 5:41). Despite unjust opposition and unfair accusations, we "rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory" in the name of JESUS CHRIST OUR ONLY LORD(1 Peter 1:8; Ephesians 4:5; Phil 2:10-11; Acts 4:12). Baptism in JESUS NAME ( Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Acts 2:38) is a very serious matter. According to the Bible, baptism is for the purpose of salvation ( Mark 16:16; I Peter 3:20-21; Gal 3:27). Remember! In the Garden of Eden God told Adam and Eve not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. God said in Genesis 2:17, "For in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die." But later in Genesis 3:4 Satan told Eve, "You will not surely die." Satan just added the one word "not" and perverted what God had said. This is what men are doing today! Jesus said in Mark 16:16, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved." Men today erroneously teach "He that believes and is not baptized shall be saved." By adding the word "not" men today are perverting the word of God just as Satan did. Satan does not want anyone to be baptized in JESUS NAME ( Acts 2:38; Lk 24:47; Acts 10:43) for the purpose of being saved. Satan tells people that after you think you are saved and your sins are forgiven then you can be baptized. But this is a lie of Satan which will cause many people to be lost. But Jesus promised salvation only to those who believe and are baptized ( Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Lk 24;47; Acts 2:38; 22:16). I plead with you to consider this issue. Why would anyone refuse to use the name Jesus? Why would anyone hesitate to take on the name of the One who died for them and be identified publicly with Him? Why would anyone reject the only saving name JESUS in the New Testament (Acts 4:12) - the name that is above every name? Why follow the Roman Catholic Church in baptism? Shouldn't the true church follow the baptismal formula set forth by the original twelve Apostles ? The Choice is all yours! Heaven or Hell! Please do not react in a knee-jerk, angry fashion. Look at how simply and wonderfully, the Bible declares that Jesus is the Only one True God! The Bible says: "And 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). Baptism IN JESUS NAME-- consists of both word and deed, so this verse applies. Of course, we do not orally utter the name Jesus before every statement or act in our lives. The verse primarily means to say or do everything with the power and authority of Jesus, as His representative, as His follower, and in dependence upon Him. When it comes to specific spiritual acts that require the invocation of God's name, however, this verse applies literally. We pray, cast out devils, and lay hands on the sick in the name of Jesus, all by uttering His name, and water baptism should be no exception. One who lives by the spirit of Colossians 3:17 as Christ's representative and follower will certainly be baptized in His name. Brethren, we must let go of heathen and pagan Trinity ideas and doctrines that stand against the work of God (Rev 22:18-19; John 5:39; Gal 1:8-9; I Tim 3:16; Rev 18:1-4). 

 My humble prayer is that the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (God Jesus) will open your spiritual eyes and ears in Jesus name (Acts 4:12)! This is the time to break free of all deceptions. "Come out of her (Babylon Trinity) my people, lest you take part in her sins, lest you share in her plagues." We cannot afford to be wrong on this vital point. Our eternal destiny depends on our being right with God COME TO JESUS TODAY! (Matt 11:28-29). OBEY ACTS 2:38. LIVE FOREVER! Shalom! In Jesus' Name, Brother.Paogin Mangte,ThD.,PhD ATS & OAPCI President/ Director. New Delhi,India. www.atsseminaryindia.webs.com