In the threefold name Baptism Ordinance – How, When and Who
How to Baptize
When we submit to the solemn rite of baptism, we testify to angels and to men that we are purged from our old sins, and that henceforth, having died to the world, we will “seek those things which are above. . . .” (Colossians 3:1). Let us not forget our baptismal vow. In the presence of the three highest powers of heaven–the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit–we have pledged ourselves to do the will of Him who . . . declared, “I am the resurrection, and the life: John 11:25. Christ forgives every penitent sinner, and as the forgiven one, at the time of baptism, rises from the watery grave, he is declared a new creature, whose life is hid with Christ in God. Let us ever remember that it is our high privilege to be purged from our old sins. {Ms106-1904} also in {OHC 157.4}
When the Christian takes his baptismal vow, divine help is pledged to him. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit stand ready to work in his behalf. God places at his command the resources of heaven, that he may be an overcomer. His own power is small; but God is omnipotent, and God is his helper. Daily he is to make known his wants at the throne of grace. By faith and trust, by availing himself of the resources provided, he can be more than a conqueror. {Ms13-1902} also in {OHC 157.5}
Before He left them, Christ gave His followers a positive promise that after His ascension He would send them the Holy Spirit. “Go ye therefore,” He said, “and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father [a personal God] and of the Son [a personal Saviour], and of the Holy Ghost [sent from heaven to represent Christ]: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” [Matthew 28:19, 20]. {Ms41-1897} also in {12MR 260.2}
Much has been written then in opposition to baptism in threefold name but evidence shows that even our forefathers believed in the truth of such baptism. Why then stand in variance brethren?! Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But some say, we will not walk therein [Jeremiah 6:16]. It doesn’t have to be so amongst you brethren. Why should you content on a legitimate verse found in the bible? Why strip Matthews of its credibility! Instead of taking penknives and cutting off what does not harmonize with our mind, we should seek to understand why Matthew wrote as he wrote.
Click on the following title to read more
In the threefold name Baptism Ordinance – How, When and Who
Blessings
