THE TRUTH ABOUT WATER BAPTISM AND SALVATION EXPOSED WITH HISTORICAL REVIEW

THE TRUTH ABOUT WATER BAPTISM AND SALVATION EXPOSED WITH HISTORICAL REVIEW... Take Time and read it.. Heaven is REAL!

The purpose of this article is to show from the scriptures and from history that unless you have repented of your sins, been baptized by full immersion in water, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and received the the Holy Ghost (The Spirit of TRUTH), you do not have salvation and your soul will be condemned.

Also that the common formula used by most ministers during water baptism is incorrect and has misled many into DAMNATION.

Jesus said "Upon this rock I will build MY CHURCH and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18). Upon this rock, what rock? A lot of people think the rock to be Peter, while others think it to be Jesus Himself. 

No friend! 

Read it by inspiration from verse 17.. 

“And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood has not REVEALED it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 

Vs 18. “And I say unto thee that thou art Peter, and upon THIS ROCK (upon this REVELATION given to you) I will build MY CHURCH: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 

This concept “My Church” shows that the church is owned by Christ. You can learn more about this in my article “My Church” Christ has already laid the foundation of His church; 

“The Revelation of Himself” see vs 16... 

“And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD.” A lot of what is called “church” today is simply “Denominations” because they have not received the revelation of the true personality of Christ. The bitter part of it is that they preach Jesus Christ whom they do not know. (Matt 7:21- 22). 

“Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

My beloved friend, it is in this revelation that I want to open up your eyes to a vital truth that may have been hidden away from you over a long time before now. All I request from you is to be a NOBLE. How? It is very simple… You just have to behave like those who heard the gospel of Paul in a city called Berea. They have a different spirit and went in to check and study the scriptures to know if Paul was actually preaching in error.

Acts 17: 11 “These were nobler than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so”

I KNOW YOU ARE NOBLE!

Many people believe that as long as they are sincere, it doesn't matter which church they become a member of. This philosophy goes against the teaching of scripture, for the apostle Jude said that we should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints (Jude 3).

In the days of Noah there was only one ark of safety from the flood, and only one door of entry. In these last days the one true Church of Jesus Christ is the only place of safety for your soul. It began on the day of Pentecost, and the new birth of water and Spirit is the only means of entrance (John 3:5). If the church you are in does not follow the teachings and practices of the original Church which Jesus established, it is not the true Church. Your soul is in danger of being eternally lost.

The word of GOD reveals that in the last days there would be false prophets and teachers (Matthew 24: 4 and 11), churches with an outward appearance of godliness (2 Timothy 3: 5), and also that Satan’s ministers can appear as ministers of righteousness (2Corinthians 11:15).

How then can one distinguish the TRUE CHURCH from the false? 

In the same way that one can distinguish the genuine banknote from the counterfeit, by holding it up to the light. All other churches when examined against the light of GOD's word (Psalm 119: 105); fail the test of authenticity concerning the new birth. Only the A CHURCH OWN TO CHRIST is shown to be the TRUE CHURCH when examined in the light of scripture. 

Check this out! 

1Jn 4:1-6. “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that JESUS CHRIST IS COME IN THE FLESH is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of ERROR”

Many people have gone shopping with counterfeit money, SINCERELY believing that what they had was the real thing, only to end up highly embarrassed when the time of reckoning came at the till.

We do not question your sincerity or love for God. You may be like Apollos who was very zealous toward God and mighty in the scriptures, but he had a teachable spirit and allowed Aquila and Priscilla to expound unto him the way of God more perfectly (Acts 18:24 – 28).

The Lord Jesus is coming soon to take HIS CHURCH (Those who have been called out of the world, purchased with his blood, and born again the Bible way) out of this world to be with Him for eternity.

Take some time to seek the truth, for the traditions of men cannot save your soul. Make sure that you're in the TRUE CHURCH. The eternal destiny of your soul depends upon it.

WHAT IS WATER BAPTISM?

God chose immersion in water because it is a very powerful way of showing us that our sins must be forgiven. Believers realize that they need saving from sin and require God's grace. They go under the water in baptism, and die to an old way of life. They come up out of the water to a new life. In baptism, believers identify with the death of Jesus Christ, who died for us. 

Just as Jesus rose from the dead, we also rise from the waters of baptism to "set out on a new life" (Romans 6:4). Now, we are God's children, and we desire to please Him. If we do so, He will give us His great gift of everlasting Life. This will happen when Jesus comes to rule the world (Luke 1:32, 33). No wonder Jesus regarded baptism as being so important. 

WHY DO I NEED TO BE BAPTIZED?

You need to be baptized because, like all mankind, you are dying. We have all earned the wage of sin. Paul tells us "the wage is death" (Romans 6:23). Without God, death is the end. 

People have a very bad habit of not wanting to think about important issues that they do not like. Death is one of those issues. We must be wise enough to face it. The good news is that God offers us everlasting life; but on His terms. That is fair, as He is the giver of life. Peter tells us, in Acts 2 and 3, that we must take five steps to salvation. They are: 

a. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and his message. 

b. Repent (have a change of mind, realizing that we need God and His forgiveness). 

c. Be converted (turn round and walk towards God in His righteousness). 

d. Obey the Lord Jesus Christ and be baptized, receive the Holy Ghost. 

e. Continue faithfully in God's way by the help of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:27-42; 3:18-21). 

God always keeps His promises. He will never let us down. As Jesus said, "No one can snatch them out of the Father's care" (John 10:29). 

The subject of water baptism has long been called a great issue and no doubt has been made such by many church leaders of the past and present. In our study of it, let us first consider its importance, or the necessity of being baptized.

THE IMPORTANCE OF WATER BAPTISM

Christian water baptism is an ordinance instituted by Jesus Christ. If it is not important in the plan of God, why did Jesus command it in Matthew 28:19? And why did Peter follow up by saying, "Be baptized every one of you," and by commanding the Gentiles to be baptized (Acts 2:38; 10:48)? We must remember two points about the importance of water baptism. First, whatever Christ definitely established and ordained cannot be unimportant, whether we understand its significance or not. Second, Christ and the apostles showed the importance of this ordinance by observing it. Jesus walked many miles to be baptized, though He was without sin, saying, "For thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness" (See Matthew 3:13-16.)

It is true that water itself does not contain any saving virtue, but God has chosen to include it in His plan of salvation. Peter explained, "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" (I Peter 3:21). According to Luke 7:30, "the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized."

Some hold to the theory that they do not have to be baptized to be saved, and will justify this theory by pointing to the thief on the cross. The thief however, died under the old covenant of the law and did not need to be born again. The new birth could not fully take place because the Holy Ghost was not yet given when the thief died, for Jesus was not yet glorified (John 7 : 39)

The Church age began on the day of Pentecost and will end at the rapture. You and I are under the new covenant of grace and must be born again.

NOTE THE FOLLOWING:

Both Jesus and the apostles declare that salvation comes through water baptism (Mark 16: 16, 1Peter 3: 21).

The scriptures declare that water baptism is for the washing away or remission of sins (Acts 2: 38, Acts 22: 16).

The scriptures declare that water baptism is a command, not an option (Acts 10: 48).

Water baptism is so important, that those whose baptism was invalid for the Church age had to be RE-BAPTIZED in the name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 19: 1-6). 

Water baptism is part of the foundational teachings of the doctrine of Christ. Those who reject the apostles’ baptism are building their lives on sinking sand (Hebrews ch 6 vs 1 and 2).

Paul said "For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive (1 Corinthians 15: 22). Adam is the head or representative of the human family. His sins have been imputed to every human being (Romans 5: 12), leaving all spiritually dead and awaiting judgment. Jesus Christ has become the head or representative of a new spiritual family called the Church. His righteousness is imputed to all who will become a member of this new family. The term "in Adam" means to be a member of the family of Adam. The term "in Christ" means to be a member of the new family of Jesus Christ.Being a member of the family of Adam happens automatically by passing through the water in your Mother’s womb and receiving natural breath at birth. 

How then, do we get from being "in Adam" to being "in Christ”? 

It is certainly NOT by praying the sinners’ prayer. The answer is by passing through the water of baptism and receiving the spiritual breath of life, namely the Holy Ghost. (John 3: 3- 5, Acts 2: 38). The scriptures say that we are BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST (Romans 6:3, Galatians ch 3: 27).

Therefore BAPTISM is the only way that we can enter this new family called THE CHURCH.

There was a practice taking place in the Corinthian Church known as baptizing by proxy or baptizing in the stead of a dead person. (1 Corinthians 15: 29). The Corinthian Church members had family, relatives, friends and other loved ones who had died without being baptized. They believed that by being baptized for their dead loved ones they could secure a place in heaven for them.

Although the Corinthians were in error for believing that their dead loved ones who had died in their sins could be saved through their baptism by proxy, they were fully aware that without water baptism in the name of JESUS CHRIST a person could not enter into the Kingdom of GOD (Acts 2: 38, John 3 : 5).

If water baptism is not necessary for salvation then the Corinthian Church members would not have bothered baptizing for the dead.

So many people profess that they are living for Christ and yet have never been ' Born again '. 

Naturally speaking a person cannot live until they are first born, and so it is spiritually (John 3: 5).

When we meet people today who profess to be Christians, they become very offended when we ask them how they were baptized or if they have received the Holy Ghost, and yet Upon arriving at Ephesus the greatest evangelist of the new testament, the Apostle Paul came across some disciples of John the baptist and the first two questions which they were asked were concerning water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Acts 19: 1- 6).

Paul knew that a person cannot be saved without the new birth of water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ and the infilling of the Holy Ghost.If Paul met you today, and asked you "Unto what then were you baptized”, what would your answer be? 

A person cannot live for Christ if they have not been born right

THE MODE OF BAPTISM (SPRINKLING OR IMMERSION) WITH HISTORY

Some people say that they believe that baptism is necessary for salvation, but will then declare that they were baptized when they were a baby. What they mean is that they were Christened, by having a few drops of water splashed on their head. Whatever we believe about salvation, it must be able to be proven from the HOLY BIBLE (KING JAMES VERSION).

According to the scriptures, the proper way to be baptized is by IMMERSION. "And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water" (Matthew 3: 16) "And they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him" (Acts 8: 38)

By being baptized we are identifying with the BURIAL of Jesus Christ "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death" (Romans 6 : 4) A dead body is not buried by lying it on the ground and sprinkling some soil on it, but by completely submerging it below the ground.

The World Book Encyclopedia declares 

"At first all baptism was by complete immersion" (vol 1 page 651) The Catholic Encyclopedia states "In the early centuries, all were baptized by IMMERSION in STREAMS, POOLS AND BAPTISTERIES" (vol 2 page 263)

Immersion was not convenient after the Catholic Church instituted infant baptism thus the mode was changed to sprinkling. (See Encyclopedia Britannica, 11th edition, vol 3, pages 365-366)

When a baby is to be born naturally, he/she is completely submerged in water in the Mother’s womb, and so it is spiritually (John 3: 5)

We conclude therefore that according to the Bible and history, water baptism must be administered by complete IMMERSION. We also submit to you that water baptism must be PRECEDED by FAITH (BELIEVE) and REPENTANCE (Mark 16: 16, Acts 2: 28). A baby therefore having no faith in GOD or knowledge that they have been born in sin (Psalm 51: 5, Romans 5: 12) should not be baptized.

NOTE THIS:

REPENTANCE identifies us with the death of Christ, and BAPTISM identifies us with His burial. Coming forth from the watery grave of baptism and RECEIVING NEW LIFE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT identifies us with His resurrection.

THE FORMULA FOR BAPTISM

Jesus commanded His disciples to "teach all nations, baptizing them in the name (singular, not names) of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19). He did not command them to use these words as a formula, but He commanded them to baptize in "the name." The word name is used here in the singular, and it is the focal point of the baptismal command. The titles Father, Son, and Holy Ghost describe God's relationships to humanity and are not the supreme, saving name described here, which is Jesus. "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).

Jesus is the name in which the roles of Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are revealed. The angel of the Lord instructed Joseph, "She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). Jesus said, "I am come in my Father's name," and, "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost,...the Father will send in my name" (John 5:43; 14:26). Thus by baptizing in the name of Jesus, we honor the Godhead. "For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9).

All of a person's power and authority is contained in his name, not his title.

Father is a title meaning 'Male parent', Son is a title meaning 'Male child', and Holy Ghost is describing the purity of GOD's Spirit. None of these are GOD's name.

Check out these:

The scripture says “Save me, O God, by thy name” (Not by thy titles) 

GOD has many titles, but only one name, which is JESUS. “And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit “(Acts 7:59)

We know that the name of the Son is Jesus (Matthew ch 1 vs 21).

The Father and the Son must have the same name for there to be a relationship.

It is clear from the Old Testament that God’s saving name was not known, (Gen 32:29-30, Isaiah 52: 6)

In the Old Testament God (The Father) appeared in angelic form to Manoah and said his name was a secret (Judges 13:17- 22)

It was prophesied that the Messiah (The Son) would declare GOD's (the Father) name (Psalm 22:22 + Hebrews 2: 12).

The Old Testament declared that one day GOD (the Father) would be known by one name (Zechariah 14: 9).

Jesus said “I am come in my Father's name" (John 5: 43).

He said to the Father "I have manifested thy name, and I have declared unto them thy name" (John 17: 6 and 26).

Paul said Jesus received his name by inheritance. A son would inherit from his Father (Hebrews 1: 4).

In the Old Testament the temple was called by the same name as the God (The Father) who dwelt in it. (1 Kings 8: 43) and that they may know that this house, which I have builded, is by THY NAME. The temple was a type of the Son of God for Jesus said Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up (John 2:19) But he spake of the temple of his body (John 2:21).

The Son (Temple) had the same name as the Father who dwelt in him (John 14:10) I am come in my Father’s name (John 5:43).

The name that Jesus inherited from his Father, and manifested, was JESUS CHRIST. 

Therefore the name of the Father is also Jesus Christ, which means Jehovah is Salvation

Jesus said also that the comforter which is the Holy Ghost would come in His name (John 14: 26).

Mary was found with child of the Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:18), that makes the Holy Ghost the Father.

The scriptures also declare that the Holy Ghost is Jesus Christ in Spirit form (John 14:17, 18, 26, Gal 4:6, Eph 3:17, Col 1:27). This means that the name of the Holy Ghost is also Jesus.

We submit therefore, that JESUS CHRIST is the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.

The terms Father, Son and Holy Ghost refer to the three manifestations (Not persons) of the one God whose name is JESUS CHRIST.

When you want to withdraw money from a bank account, the cashier will ask you to sign the withdrawer form. He/she will point to the dotted line and say “Sign your name here". Do you repeat his/her words literally and sign “Your name here" or do you obey his/her words and sign E.g "Daniel Ifeanyichukwu". Those who baptize in the titles Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are only repeating Jesus' words as a baptismal formula, but are not obeying them as the disciples did. (Acts 2: 38, Acts 8: 16, Acts 19: 5).

The name (not titles) of the Lord (Jesus Christ) is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is SAFE (Proverbs 18: 10). The only way that we can enter that name is to be BAPTIZED into it (Acts 2: 38, 8: 16, 19: 5).

The Church is the bride of Christ. Every bride must take on her husband's, family or surname (Revelation 21: 9). 

The Church takes on her Husband’s name at water baptism (Acts 2: 38).

The Church are Sons of GOD. Every son must take on his family name at birth (John 1: 12, 3 : 3 – 5, Acts 2: 38).

JESUS is the family name (Ephesians 3: 14 and 15).

Most denominations believe in praying, casting out devils and healing the sick in the name of Jesus, but reject or even become offended at the thought of being baptized in his name. Paul said "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed (baptism is a deed), do all in the name of the Lord Jesus (Colossians 3: 17 + Acts 19: 5).

Baptism should be done in the name of THE LORD JESUS CHRIST!

Friend, as you read this message today, let me tell you the desire of my heart. I am not trying to introduce controversy for the sake of argument. I am here by the help of GOD to explain to you the great truth that lies dormant in the Church world. I am here to resurrect again the understanding of the GREAT POWER there is in the name of JESUS CHRIST.

Baptism is not a means of earning Salvation, but a means of receiving or applying the Salvation that was purchased at Calvary, to OUR LIVES.

To enjoy life forever, you must take the five steps to salvation; every one of them. The record in Acts 10 concerning Cornelius shows us that just to live a good life, without being baptized, is not good enough. Peter ordered Cornelius "to be baptized in the name of The Lord Jesus Christ" (verse 48). 

Baptism is the start of a new life which will bring you great joy. It will give your life a renewed purpose. In an uncertain world, the God of Peace will give you peace. 

Are you wise enough to follow the command of The Lord Jesus Christ to believe and be baptized? What a blessing awaits you if you are! God will bless you with life for evermore, when Jesus returns to establish his kingdom. 

"The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 6:23) 

Luke 24:45-49 records that just before His ascension, Jesus opened the disciples' understanding. It was necessary that their understanding be opened, and many today need this same operation in order to understand the Scriptures. Then Jesus said to them, 

"Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day." 

The disciples had their understanding opened so that they could grasp the vast importance of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Verse 47 describes the commission that Jesus then gave: "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations [Jews and Gentiles], beginning at Jerusalem."

Check Out verse 49: 

“And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but TARRY (WAIT) ye in Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high”

Christ told them to wait until they are filled with the Holy Ghost before they will carry on the mandate of Matt 28:19 (This should open your eyes the more)

Peter was one of those to whom Jesus had spoken and whose understanding had been opened. After having listened to these instructions, a few days later he was inspired by the Holy Ghost to preach on the Day of Pentecost. The hearts of the hearers were pierced and, feeling condemned, they cried out to Peter and the other apostles, 

"Men and brethren, what shall we do?" (Acts 2:37). 

Peter did not hesitate but boldly answered, "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). 

"Then they that gladly received his word were baptized, and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:41).

Some say that Peter told them to be baptized in Jesus' name because they were Jews and this baptism was to make them acknowledge Jesus Christ. But let us go with Peter to the house of Cornelius several years later. Cornelius and his household were Gentiles, yet there again Peter "commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord" (Acts 10:48). (Most translations actually say, "In the name of Jesus Christ.") 

If Peter was wrong on the Day of Pentecost, he surely had ample time to be corrected before he went to the house of Cornelius.

Was Peter wrong on the Day of Pentecost? When the hearers were prickled in their hearts, they spoke to Peter and to the rest of the apostles (Acts 2:37). 

This included Matthew, who wrote Matthew 28:19. Moreover, when Peter preached, he stood up with the eleven Acts 2:14). Matthew was there, yet we find no words of correction from him. He surely would have spoken up if Peter had disobeyed the Lord. But all the apostles understood and carried out the Lord's commission. As Jesus said in prayer, "I have manifested thy name unto the men [the apostles] which thou gavest me out of the world...and they have kept thy word" (John 17:6).

The Samaritans, who were not Jews, were also baptized in the name of Jesus. Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them...."But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.... They were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 8:5, 12, and 16).

Check Out Paul…. 

Let us see how Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, baptized. He went to Ephesus many years after the Day of Pentecost and found some disciples of John the Baptist there. "He said unto them, have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, we have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. 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, 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 19:2-5). Although these disciples had already been baptized, the name of Jesus was so important as to cause them to be rebaptized in His name. 

Remember Paul had not meet Peter at that time…..

We do not believe that Paul changed the formula or mode of baptism when he baptized Lydia and her household (Acts 16:14-15) or the Philippian jailer. The latter came trembling and fell down before Paul and Silas, saying, "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 he took them the same hour of the night [shortly after midnight], and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway" (Acts 16:30-33). How can we doubt that Paul baptized these people using the same mode and formula that he used elsewhere, that is, immersion in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ?

Paul was not with the apostles when Jesus gave his finial instructions to them in Matthew 28:19 and Luke 24:47, yet Paul baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 

How did he know what to do? He said that his gospel was not a tradition of men but a revelation from God. 

"I certify you, brethren that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ" (Galatians 1:11-12). 

Paul was chosen to bear Jesus' name to the Gentiles, and he wrote many divinely inspired epistles to the church. To this apostle, God revealed the mystery of the church, "which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit" (Ephesians 3:5). 

Paul claimed to have divine authority: "If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord" (I Corinthians 14:37). And Paul wrote, 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). Water baptism is done in both word and deed. We cannot afford to overlook this command to the church.

The church is "built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" (Ephesians 2:20). 

The apostles not only preached baptism in Jesus' name, but they practiced it. Nowhere can we find that they baptized using the words "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." Instead, we find them baptizing in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. In baptizing in Jesus' name, they fulfilled the command of the Lord in Matthew 28:19. Paul said, 

"But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed" (Galatians 1:8). 

Let this be a solemn warning to us.

Some say that they will accept the words of Jesus in Matthew 28:19 but not those of Peter in Acts 2:38. But Peter spoke on the Day of Pentecost under the anointing of the Holy Ghost. Peter was one of the apostles, and to him had been given the keys of the kingdom, so we have no right to discredit his words.

In Mark 7:8 Jesus said, "Laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men." 

History tells us that it was not until many years after the apostles that the mode and formula of baptism in the name of Jesus Christ were changed. (See Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible, vol. 1, p.241.) Which means more to you, the command of the Lord or the tradition of men?

BAPTISM IN HISTORY

1. In the Encyclopedia Britannica, the 11th edition vol 3, page 365-366 you will find this statement "The baptismal formula was changed from the name of Jesus Christ to the words Father, Son and Holy Ghost by the Catholic church in the second century." 

Now I am giving you historical proof that the original Church baptized in the name of Jesus. 

2. Also from the Encyclopedia Britannica, vol 3, page 82 "Everywhere in the oldest sources it states that baptism took place in the name of Jesus Christ." 

3. The Canney Encyclopedia of Religion, page 53 states, “The early Church always baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus until the development of the trinity doctrine in the 2nd Century.

My friend is this not proof that the early Church practiced baptism in the name of Jesus Christ?

4. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, vol 2, page 377, Catholics acknowledge that baptism in Jesus' name was changed by the Catholic Church.

5. In addition, Hastings Encyclopedia of Religions, vol 2, page 377 states "Christian baptism was administered using the words "In the name of Jesus". From the same source, page 378, "The use of the trinitarian formula of any sort was not suggested in the early Church's history". From the same volume, page 389; note that, baptism was always in the name of the Lord Jesus until the time of Justin Martyr, when the triune formula was used. 

6. Hastings Encyclopedia vol 2, page 377 declares the baptism in Jesus' name according to Acts ch 2 vs 38.

The word Name was an ancient synonym for 'person'. Payment was always made in the name of some person, referring to ownership. Therefore, one being baptized in the name of Jesus became his personal property, as the scriptures say “Ye are Christs" (1 Corinthians 3: 23). 

History testifies to the authenticity of the scriptures, history also corroborates the fact that you and I must go back over the period of Church thinking, re-arrangement for man, philosophies, and ideas of individuals introduced long after the Apostles. Baptism in Jesus name is what the individuals who hear the word of GOD should obey.

It is also necessary to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (John 3: 5 + Romans 8: 9 + Acts 8: 15,16 and 17 Acts 10: 45 + 19 : 6). 

The Holy Ghost gives us victory over sin (Romans 8: 13), and enables us to live a Holy life, without which no man shall see the Lord (Hebrews 12: 14).

DON’T BE DECEIVED!

The Lord Jesus declared 

"And many false prophets shall rise and deceive many" (Matthew 24: 11). 

Notice that it is not the few that will be deceived but the many. 

Many famous preachers hold giant evangelistic crusades each year and declare that thousands of people were ‘saved’. During the altar call, the people are told to raise their hands and repeat the sinners prayer. They are then told 'you are now saved'. These preachers are false prophets and are leading millions of people to hell. There are professing Christians who build their doctrine of Salvation on one verse of scripture while rejecting all the other scriptures which relate to Salvation. The common Salvation scripture which they use is Acts 16: 31 and they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. 

Notice that ‘shalt be’ is future tense. Belief is the beginning of the 

process of the NEW BIRTH. The Philippian jailor and his family heard the word of the Lord andthen went on to be baptized (Acts 16: 30 – 34).

Natural birth has to begin with conception; the man’s seed (sperm) has to be received by the woman to fertilize the egg. The baby then has to pass through water and receive natural breath as he/she comes into the outside world.As it is naturally, so it is spiritually. We first hear the gospel (God’s word is his seed/sperm 

Luke 8: 11, 1Peter 1: 23, James 1: 18).

We then believe the gospel by receiving the word into our hearts (This is spiritual conception),This then leads us to pass through the water of baptism and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (The spiritual breath of life). Acts 2 : 41 Then they that gladly received (believed) his word were baptized: and the same day were added unto them about three thousand souls.

Here are some other scriptures which relate to Salvation

1 Peter 3:21. The like figure whereunto BAPTISM doth also now SAVE US

Mark 16:16 He that believeth and is BAPTIZED SHALL BE SAVED

Acts 11:14. Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and thy entire house shall be saved. 

Cornelius was then COMMANDED to be BAPTIZED in the name of the LORD (The name of the LORD is Jesus Acts 10:36, 44 – 48)

Jesus said I am the door: by me if any man ENTER IN, he shall be saved (John 10 : 9).

Jesus had previously told Nicodemus that the only means of ENTERING IN is through the New Birth of water and of the Spirit.

SALVATION BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH

Some people believe that salvation through the new birth contradicts the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith. There are no contradictions in the Bible and the Bible has a perfect harmony of doctrine. When seen in its true light, the new birth is by grace through faith.

Suppose that I tell you to meet me at Mr. Biggs tomorrow at 11.00am and I will give you N10,000,000.00 (This is the condition I have prescribed for you to receive your free gift). If you really believe me then you will show up at Mr. Biggs at 11.00am. 

If you are at Mr. Biggs by 11.00am does that mean that you have earned the money? Of course not, because the N10, 000,000.00 is a free gift. Your appearance at Mr. Biggs at 11.00am is a necessary requirement for you to receive your free gift (Grace on my part, faith on your part)

If you fail to show up, you will lose out on your free gift and the fault will be yours (No faith in my promise).

Likewise we must respond to God's promise in faith by repenting and being baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and seeking the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2: 38). 

God will then do his part by graciously granting us salvation as a free gift and not an earned right.

If we do not obey God's word and meet these requirements then we will not receive salvation because of our lack of faith. True faith always produces obedience. 

THE AUTHORITY OF THE APOSTLES

We have to remember that none of our modern day church leaders ever saw the Lord Jesus in the flesh. They were not on the Mount of Olives when he gave the great commission to teach all nations and baptize them. Only the APOSTLES were there.

Check Out the following!

Jesus issues a warning to those who reject the words of his APOSTLES (Matthew 10: 14 and 15).

Jesus said to his APOSTLES "He that heareth you heareth me" (Luke 10: 16)

Jesus prayed only for those who would believe on him through his APOSTLES word (The New Testament scriptures) (John 17: 20).

Jesus confirmed the words of his APOSTLES with signs following (Mark 16: 20).

Jesus gave his APOSTLES the authority to remit or retain sins (John 20: 23).

The names of the 12 APOSTLES are in the foundations of the wall of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21: 14).

The teachings of the APOSTLES are the foundation of the New Testament Church (Ephesians 2: 20).

The APOSTLE Paul said that if anyone, including an angel from heaven preached anything other than the APOSTLES gospel they would be accursed (Galations 1 : 8 and 9).

The mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven were given to the APOSTLES (Matthew 13: 10 and 11).

Jesus opened his APOSTLES understanding to understand the scriptures (Luke 24: 27 and 45).

Jesus taught his APOSTLES how to baptize people (John 4 : 1 and 2)

Jesus commissioned NO-ONE but his APOSTLES to teach all nations (Matthew 28: 19).

Therefore the APOSTLES are the only ones we can depend upon to show us how to be baptized correctly.The only true formula for water baptism is the one used by the Apostles.

The Apostles, who were taught by JESUS CHRIST, administered baptism in the name of Jesus Christ.

The Apostles never repeated the words “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost “as a formula for water baptism.

"And they continued steadfastly in the APOSTLES' DOCTRINE (Acts 2 : 42).

ACTS 2 : 38 : Then said Peter unto 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.

THE TIME HAS COME FOR YOU TO MAKE YOUR DECISION FOR ETERNITY.

HEAVEN OR HELL FIRE, IT'S UP TO YOU!

GOD BLESS YOU.

~ Daniel Ifeanyichukwu  J. N. ~.