~ The Great Commission ~
A look into how early Seventh-Day Adventist understood the words of Jesus Christ regarding Baptism
found in Matthew 28:19.
“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”
Did early Seventh-Day Adventist think these words were unauthentic and not to be used? Or could it be that because the pioneers did not believe like the majority of the Christian world regarding the “Father, Son and Holy Spirit”, that it gave them reason to reject the formula? What do the words of the great commission mean? Why does it appear that elsewhere in the New Testament that people were baptized “in the name of Jesus” only? This document is a compilation with minimal commentary that will reveal some solutions to these questions.
The Bible Students Assistant (1858) Uriah Smith
- We are baptized in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Matt. 28:19. By this we express our belief in the existence of the one true God, the mediation of his Son, and the influence of the Holy Spirit.
So right away, we can see clearly that SDA’s accepted the formula, and express clearly that they believe in the existence of the One God and Father of all, His Son, and the Holy Spirit. This is important to understand because some would make it seem as though they only believed in the Father and Son.
Ellen White (1864)
This high commission relates to the gospel, to faith, to baptism, to salvation, and to spiritual gifts. The gospel was to be preached as long as there were sinners to hear it. Faith is equally requisite throughout the Christian Age. Baptism is a perpetual ordinance in the church, and the ministers of the nineteenth century baptize “In the name of the father, and of the son, and of the Holy Ghost,” Because the original commission requires it. The terms of salvation stated in this commission were to be held out as long as sinners might be saved. Running parallel with all these, we find in the same commission spiritual gifts. In the absence of proof that the gifts were to be restricted to any particular age of the Christian Church; this commission alone is sufficient evidence of their perpetuity. {3SG 9.4}
GLAD TIDINGS OF SALVATION. BY ELD. T. M. STEWARD.
Review and Herald – November 5, 1867
But, says one, does that commandment extend beyond the apostles? I think it does. I don’t think Christ expected they would live long enough to preach the gospel to all the world. In Matt. xxviii, 19, we read: “Go, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, * * and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” He did not expect they would live, and teach unto the end of the world. I understand this charge is to all those whom he may choose during this dispensation to preach the gospel. Then, with this commission in our hands, and the promise of our Saviour, we are authorized to preach the gospel, if he has called us. We should be careful that he has called us, and also that we are qualified for this work.
HOLINESS TO THE LORD. BY ELD. I. SANBORN.
Review and Herald – February 18, 1869
And Jesus speaks thus to this converted man: If a man love me he will keep my words, and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him and make our abode with him. John. xiv, 23. Here we can plainly see that Jesus measures our love to him by our acts of obedience. He said to the apostles, All power is given unto me in Heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and, lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world. Amen.
Did the Apostles Baptize in the Name of the Holy Ghost? D. M. Canright
Review and Herald – August 22, 1871
IN Christ’s great commission in Matt. 28:19, 20, he instructed his apostles to baptize men in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. This seems very plain and decisive that the names of all three should be used in baptism; yet because in several places it is said that men were baptized in the name of Jesus, therefore it is concluded by some that Jesus’ name was the only one of the three used in that act.
On this point there is one thought suggested in Acts 19:1-3. Paul came to Ephesus, “and finding certain disciples, 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?” Why did he ask about their baptism when they said they had not heard of the Holy Ghost? Manifestly as much as to say thus: How can it be that you have not so much as heard of the Holy Ghost, while yet you have been baptized? How could you be baptized and yet not hear of the Holy Ghost, when it is named in the very act of baptism? Unto what, then, were ye baptized? With the idea that Christians were baptized in the name of the Holy Ghost, this was the first and most natural question that would arise in the mind of Paul; whereas, if this name was not heard in baptism there seems little or no reason for his asking the question about their baptism. To my mind this seems quite a strong point.
This is one of the first reasons given as to why there appears to be such a contradiction in scriptures. Christ’s Commission to his Disciples.
CHAS. B. REYNOLDS.
Review and Herald – April 8, 1873
When Christ gave his commission to his disciples, it was that they might carry out his will, as he carried out his Father’s will: “Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; 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. Amen.” Matt. 28:19, 20. Apostles, disciples, evangelists, ministers, — all must do and teach the things Christ did and taught (Luke 4:16), or they are apostates, false to the high commission under which they claim to act. If they are one in Christ, they will do his will, as he, being one in the Father, does the Father’s will. This completes the chain, and makes perfect harmony under all dispensations. John 14:24.
Let us beware, then, of those, however great or learned, who add to or subtract from the teaching and example of Jesus; for any who teach, either more or less, than Christ commanded, cannot be his true disciples. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in Heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name lave 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.” Matt. 7:21, 23. “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isa. 8:20.
Very strong language is spoken of in support for the formula in Matt 28:19 in the great commission. If our love for Jesus is measured by our obedience to Him, then what are we doing when we reject His words regarding baptism? Perhaps we should be very careful with any accusations that may cast doubt upon the words on baptism.
Visions and Prophecy. HAVE THEY BEEN MANIFESTED AMONG SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTS? G. I. Butler
Review and Herald – May 12, 1874
“All power is given unto me in Heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things, whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.” Matt. 28:18-20. It is by virtue of this commission that men have been authorized to preach the gospel ever since Christ ascended to Heaven. That it extends to the close of the age none can dispute. Going right along with it is the promise of special spiritual assistance, miraculous gifts. The commission cannot be confined to the apostles; no more can the promised assistance. These powers were conferred through the Holy Spirit, and by virtue of its influence alone. That Spirit is the agency by which every conversion is effected. In its name every believer is baptized. Every conversion effected by the Spirit is really a miracle, truly beyond all human power. If, then, every believer is to be baptized in the name of this agent, it must be evident that its manifestation was to continue as long as there were believers. So our Lord declares in Matthew, “Lo, I am with you alway, even to the until of the world.” How was he to be with them? Never, since his ascension, has he been with his disciples personally. The promise contemplates, then, that he should be with them by his Spirit. That Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son; and it is through it that every miracle was performed. Here we have positive evidence that the agent by which miraculous gifts were manifested was to continue with the true church to the end, of the world.
A FEW REASONS FOR OBSERVING THE SABBATH. BY ELD. A. 0. BURRILL.
Review and Herald – April 5, 1876
As I have been invited to speak to you this evening, I will read from Matt. 28:19, 20: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, 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. Amen.” These words contain the great commission of our Lord, by the authority of which his apostles at that time, and his ministers ever after, were to go forth and teach the gospel to all nations. But what were they to teach? The commission is plain: Teach them, the text says, “to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” By this you see he refers their minds back to the lessons and the instructions he had given them during his ministry here upon the earth. Thus they are to remember and practice these lessons they have been taught by Christ.
Ellen White (1878)
The prejudice of the Jews was aroused because the disciples of Jesus did not use the exact words of John in the rite of baptism. John baptized unto repentance, but the disciples of Jesus, on profession of the faith, baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The teachings of John were in perfect harmony with those of Jesus, yet his disciples became jealous for fear his influence was diminishing. A dispute arose between them and the disciples of Jesus in regard to the form of words proper to use at baptism, and finally as to the right of the latter to baptize at all. {2SP 136.3}
Thoughts on Baptism No. 8
J.H. Waggoner
Signs of the Times – June 3, 1880
Because it is said in Acts 2:38; 8:16, and 19:5, that they were baptized in the name of Jesus, some have inferred that the apostles baptized in the name of Christ only. But this conclusion is very lame. To discover the fallacy of this idea, it will only be necessary to examine the terms of the commission under which they acted.
- The Saviour told them to teach all nations, and to baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghos
- He commanded them to tarry at Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high. They were neither to preach nor to baptize until the Holy Ghost came upon them.
- The promised power came upon them on the day of Pentecost; and on that day was preached the first sermon after the great commission was give
- If they did not baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, they did not obey their Lord’s commandment— they did not fulfill the commission under which they acted and by which alone they had authority to baptiz We trust none will be willing to risk such a conclusion as this.
If the record in Acts was the only evidence in the case, the omission of the names of the Father and of the Holy Ghost might be taken as decisive. But knowing that they were acting under a commission, the specific terms of which required the use of the three sacred names, the case appears quite different. When we consider the prejudice which existed among the Jews against the person and the name of Jesus, we see good reason why his name should be presented with peculiar emphasis to them, for no such prejudice existed against the names of the Father and the Holy Spirit. But to conclude thence that they did not obey their Lord’s commandment— that they did not fulfill their commission to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost—is more than the inspired record will warrant.
Waggoner above offers more suggestions and perspective on the contradictions
Baptism. James White
Review and Herald – February 14, 1878
In order that the ordinance of baptism be properly administered, the administrator should instruct the candidate in the following, particulars.
- That he close the mouth at the very moment the administrator has finished the words, “I now baptize, you in the name of the Father, and of the Son’, and of the Holy Spirit, amen,” and be sure not to catch the breath while buried in the water. If this be strictly observed by the candidate he will not be embarrassed by disagreeable strangling.
Ambassadors for Christ
James White
Signs of the Times – November 14, 1878
“God’s ambassadors, Christ’s true ministers, by the authority of their great commission, baptize ‘in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.’ This not only shows the importance of baptism, but that both the Father and the Son, and also the Holy Spirit, have a part in the conversion of sinners. The Father is our lawgiver, Christ our mediator, and the Holy Spirit our reprover, comforter and sanctifier. God pity those who are converted by a gospel that has only the Son in it, leaving the Father out altogether, and immersion supplying the place of the Holy Spirit. It is no marvel that ministers of this sort should depart from the language found in the original commission, and baptize their converts in “the name of the Lord Jesus.”
Ellen White (1878) on Acts 19
On his arrival at Ephesus, Paul found twelve brethren, who, like Apollos, had been disciples of John the Baptist, and like him had gained an imperfect knowledge of the life and mission of Christ. They had not the ability of Apollos, but with the same sincerity and faith they were seeking to spread the light which they had received. These disciples were ignorant of the mission of the Holy Spirit, that Jesus promised to his believing people, to be the life and power of the church. When asked by Paul if they had received the Holy Ghost, they answered, “We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.” Paul inquired, “Unto what then were ye baptized?” and they said, “Unto John’s baptism.” The apostle then proceeded to set before them the great truths which are the foundation of the Christian’s hope. He told them of the life of Christ on earth, and of his cruel and shameful death. He told them how the Lord of life had broken the barriers of the tomb, and risen triumphant over death. He repeated the Saviour ’s commission to his disciples: “All power is given unto me in Heaven and in earth. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” He told them also of Christ’s promise to send the Comforter, through whose power mighty signs and wonders would be wrought, and described the glorious fulfillment of that promise on the day of Pentecost. With deep interest, and grateful wondering joy, the disciples listened to the words of Paul. By faith they grasped the atoning sacrifice of Christ, and acknowledged him as their Redeemer. They were then baptized ” in the name of Jesus;” and as Paul laid his hands upon them, they received also the baptism of the Holy Spirit, by which they were enabled to speak the languages of other nations and to prophesy. Thus these men were qualified to act as missionaries in the important field of Ephesus and its vicinity, and also from this center to spread the gospel of Christ in Asia Minor. {3SP 416-17}
THOUGHTS ON MATTHEW 28:19. BY G. W. Amadon
Review and Herald – January 29, 1880
IN this text our Lord commands that the nations of the earth be baptized “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Question: Does not being baptized “in the name of the Father,” signify that our purposes and acts are in harmony with the Father’s holy will? Now, can persons, in the fullest sense of this passage, be baptized into the name of the Father, who are knowingly or ignorantly living in disobedience to the Father’s law? This law, the Ten Commandments, is a transcript of his mind. By obedience to it, through faith in the blood of Christ, we are brought near to God. But what about that baptism where individuals are baptized into the error of the observance of a false Sabbath? Can such, in letter and spirit, in the highest sense of the great commission, be baptized in the name of the Father
Again, persons are to be baptized “in the name of the Son.” Does not this, also, signify that we are to be one with the Son? But how can any one in the complete sense of the text be baptized “in the name of the Son,” who wholly ignores some of the plainest requirements of the “faith of Jesus”? The “rejected ordinance” of John thirteen might be instanced as one particular, though many others could be mentioned.
Finally, persons are to be baptized “in the name of the Holy Spirit.” Now, in all candor, can a person in the fullest sense of this passage be baptized in the name of the Holy Spirit, and at the same time deny the perpetuity of the gifts of the Spirit of God’? This idea might be greatly protracted, but the bare suggestion seems sufficient.
Here are a few things we are now seeing: 1. It’s clear that the SDA church used the formula. 2. Pioneers were not at all in favor of baptizing only in the name of Jesus. 3. We see reasoning into what it means to be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
GOSPEL BAPTISM.*
BY ELD. D. T. BOURDEAU.
Review and Herald – February 12, 1884
“AND Jesus spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” Matt. 28:18, 19.
This command of Jesus to his disciples just before his ascension, does not come from an ordinary personage, but from the divine Son of God, to whom all power is given in heaven and in earth, By this command the duty of baptizing is inseparably connected with that of teaching the gospel. The same authority that here commands the disciples to teach the nations, commands them equally to baptize them. And observe that the authority of the eternal Father and of the Holy Spirit is as truly involved in this injunction as is that of the Son of God; for baptism is to be administered “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” Baptism being enjoined by such high authority, and occupying so prominent a place in the gospel commission, it certainly deserves our serious attention, and we may reasonably expect that the word of God will not fail to give us its true signification.
Questions and Answers
G. W. Morse
Review and Herald – February 16, 1886
384.—WHY BAPTIZE IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER, SON, AND HOLY GHOST?
Please give scriptural reasons for using the names of the “Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,” in administering the rite of baptism, instead of the “Lord Jesus”, as found in Acts 19:5 and Rom 6:3. S. MCA.
The commission from Christ, found in Matt. 28:19, reads thus: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” This is certainly as positive and reliable evidence as can be adduced for the support of any doctrine or practice, being a plain, unequivocal “thus saith the Lord,” and ought to be sufficient for any demand. We cannot see that Acts 19:5 nor Rom. 6:3 furnish authority for departing from Christ’s commission, or that they in any manner conflict with it. In Acts 19:5, the case of certain disciples at Corinth is spoken of, who had been baptized unto John’s baptism; and when they were given further information relative to the Holy Ghost and the Lord Jesus, they were rebaptized. Because the statement is made that they were baptized “in the name of the Lord Jesus,” it is no evidence that they were not also baptized in the name of the Father and the Holy Ghost. Just why the “name of the Lord Jesus” is especially mentioned, does not appear, unless it be that in consequence of the natural tendency of the Jews to reject Christ, this was a feature worthy of special mention. It is to be taken for granted that they were baptized in the name of the Father; for no doubt existed on that point; and the fact that this act of rebaptism was prompted by instruction relative to the Holy Ghost, ought to be sufficient evidence that they were baptized in that name also. In Rom. 6:3 baptism is being considered only with its particular reference to Christ’s death, and not with regard to its entire significance or effect.
Remember the statement at the top of p.2 from Canright on this, and the Ellen White statement on the previous page. Morse here also gives additional thoughts on the situation while rejecting the idea that there should be conflict between the apparent verses at odds with one another.
SCRIPTURAL BAPTISM. NO. 9. J. G. Matteson
Present Truth – December 4, 1886
Jesus commissioned his disciples to preach the gospel and to baptize in the name of the Holy Spirit, as well as in the name of the Father and the Son. And in the remarkable sermon preached by the apostle on the day of Pentecost on the strength of this commission, baptism was presented as a condition for the blessing of the Spirit: “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 2:3. To get light on this point it is necessary to understand what it is to do anything in the name of God, for the apostles should not only baptize but also teach in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. (See Matt. 28:19.) To do anything for another is to do it in his place and with authority from him. For instance, a firm embracing three persons gives a man authority to go to another country and do business for them, then he can do it in their name, and his actions are just as well authorized as if the firm had itself been present. But the number of persons in the firm would in no wise indicate that he should do the business three times.
Many Scripture texts show that the expression “in the name of Jesus” signifies to do a work for Jesus with authority from him, and where this is spoken of it indicates the Father and the Holy Spirit as well. This becomes still more evident when we notice that the Scriptures nowhere speak of baptizing in the name of the Father, or of the Holy Spirit alone, but the name of Jesus only is used in this way, because he was one with the Father and the Spirit. John 17:21, 22. On the day of Pentecost three thousand persons were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Acts 2:38, 41. The lame man in the temple was healed in the name of Jesus Christ. Chap. 3:6. The Jewish Council forbade the apostles to speak and to teach in the name of Christ. Chap. 4:18 ; 5:40. The men and women in Samaria who believed the gospel were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Chap. 8:12, 16. Paul taught in the name of Jesus Christ. Chap. 9:27, 29. He also cast out evil spirits in the name of Jesus. Chap. 16:18.
These with many other places show that when the apostles taught baptism and worked miracles in the name of Jesus, then they did this in his place and with authority from him. And no one can reasonably deny that this authority was given by the Father and the Holy Spirit as well as by the Son, unto whom the work of atonement and salvation especially belonged. Hence Jesus said when he did give the commission to his disciples: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” Matt. 28:18, 19.
THOUGHTS ON BAPTISM.—NO, 3. BY ELD. J. W. WATT.
Review and Herald – December 18, 1888
It has been considered in the former articles what we must do in order to receive baptism in the name of the Father and in the name of the Son. We have learned that it is necessary to have a willingness of mind to keep all the Father’s’ commandments, and to have faith in his Son and be willing to express that faith by going forward in all the ordinances given by the Son, before we can consistently receive baptism in the name of the Father, and in the name of the Son. We now inquire what we must do in order consistently to receive baptism in the name of the Holy Ghost? Evidently we must believe there is a Holy Ghost, and that it has something to do with our salvation, or it would not have been named in the commission…
With all this testimony before us, and much more that might be given, in what state of mi, must a person be, in order to receive baptismal he name of the Holy Ghost, in strict harmony with this great commission?—Surely, he must believe there is a Holy Ghost,—a real power sent from God in harmony with his promise,—that it s in the world, reproving it of sin, and that he himself been reproved by it; that now, as he turns to God, it will be given him as a Comforter, and the love of God thereby dwell in his heart; and that he will be led by it as long as he will earnestly strive to do the will of God. He must also have faith in the gifts of the Spirit, so far as to has been able to learn of them, and must believe that God has placed them in the church, and that they will remain there as long as God has a people on the earth.
Can any one be baptized in the name of the holy Ghost, and that baptism be acceptable to God, when he does not believe there is a Holy ghost?—I think not. What, then, in conclusion, do ye find in this commission given by the Saviour? 1. To be baptized in the name of the Father, we must keep or be willing to keep the commandments of he Father. Here we have the keeping of the commandments of God. 2. To be baptized in the name of the Son, we must have faith in the Son, and be willing to show that faith by conforming to it the ordinances given to us by the Son of God. Here we have the faith of Jesus. 3. To be bapized in the name of the Holy Ghost, we must believe there is a Holy Ghost in the world, with its offices and gifts.
Look back at the very first quotation provided which came from Uriah Smith on the first page. Seventh – Day Adventist believe in the existence of not only the Father and the Son, but also of the Holy Spirit. They believed in three, though again not in the same way in a “traditional” trinitarian way.
BAPTISM.
BY MRS. T. M. LANE
Review and Herald – July 5, 1892
”Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” Matt. 28:19. As Jesus was giving his last instructions to his disciples, just before he ascended to heaven, he promised salvation to those who would believe and be baptized. In the words of the great commission, we are to be baptized in the “name of the Father, S and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” ‘By being baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit, we become in a very sacred sense one with deem; that is, as near as we can be like them in spirit and in truth. Now how can any one really and truly be baptized in the name of the Father, and yet be in constant violation of the Father’s law, which is the revelation of will, as in the case of those who honestly observe the first day of the week for the Sabbath? And how can a person really and truly be baptized in the name of the Son, who is opposed in letter and practice to very important duties under the head of the faith of Jesus? For example, read the 13th chapter of John. And how can a person really and truly be baptized in the name of the Holy Spirit, and yet be diametrically opposed in doctrine and practice to the gifts and operations of the Holy Spirit of God?
Begging the Questions
M. E. Kellogg
Review and Herald – April 10, 1894
Why the three names are used is evident, because in the experience culminating in the act of baptism three agencies,— the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have been concerned, We repent toward God, we have faith in Christ, and we look to the Holy Spirit for sanctification.
Again, here we see more answers as to what it meant to be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and clear acknowledgment on believing in the existence of three agencies. Also to note, is the particular focus being made regarding the Spirit is it’s work and gifts, not on using the formula to demand a specific view point on the person of the Holy Spirit. This was the way of the pioneer position, as it was understood that the personality of the Holy Spirit would always be a matter of debate.
E. J. Waggoner
Present Truth – May 30, 1895
“IN THE NAME OF JESUS – This means simply that they shall be indeed a Church of Christ members of His body. This is evident from the fact that the church is the body of Christ, and people become members of it by baptism (See 1 Corinthians 12:13; Galatians 3:27, which have already been quoted); and further that those who are thus baptized into Christ are baptized into the name of the Son, as well as that of the Father and of the Holy Ghost. Matthew 18:19 [*typo 28:19]. To be assembled in the name of Jesus, therefore, is to be assembled in humble subjection to Him as the only Head of the church, and the only one having authority to issue commands to it…”
PREACHING AND BAPTIZING IN HIS NAME. A. T. Jones
Review and Herald – October 1, 1895
“When his ministers are sent forth to preach ‘in his name,’ they are also commanded to baptize in his name:
‘Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.’ ‘Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ.’ Acts 2:38. If the preaching has been done in his name, the baptizing can be done in his name. Otherwise not, for in that case the persons to be baptized will not know his name; and if they do not know his name, how can they be baptized—buried, overwhelmed, lost sight of—in his name; for this is what baptism in his name signifies.
“For a person to be baptized in his name, signifies much more than merely to have the phrase recited over him and then to be buried in the water. To be baptized in the name of the Lord, really signifies that just as the person is buried, overwhelmed, and lost sight of, in the water, so also is he buried, overwhelmed, and lost sight of, in the name, the character, the nature, of the Lord. It signifies that that person’s old, original nature and character are no more to be seen in the world; but in their stead the nature and character of the Lord. It signifies that he is no more to be manifest in the world; but that God, instead of himself, is to be manifest in him in the world.
“This is what baptism ‘in his name’ signifies, both in the Greek words and in the doctrine of the Scripture. But how shall the people be baptized in his name, if they do not know his name! And how shall they know his name, if they are not instructed in his name, and to make manifest his name to the people? O, let the preaching be all ‘in his name’ indeed, that the people may be truly baptized ‘in his name,’ that the promise may now be fulfilled, ‘My people shall know my name!’”
Into the Name
Editorial(Editor: M. C. Wilcox, Assistant Editor: E. J. Waggoner) Signs of the Times – June 3, 1897
The baptismal formula, if the expression may be so used, found in Matt. 28:19, reads: “Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost.” R. V. The words are not designed, however, to express an’ exact form that should always be used (see Acts 2:38 ; 19:5), but to express an important fact as to what true discipleship means.
Of the Father —The Father’s name is I AM, Jehovah, and it expresses the character of him who “is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.”… To be baptized into his name is to receive of his mercy, his compassion, his forgiveness, his goodness. It is to be made righteous. Jesus came in his Father’s name, having the Father’s righteousness…
Into the Name of the Son.—The one great sublime fact in the character of the Son of God is that stated in Phil.
2:5-8… To be baptized into his name is to renounce self, to give up all to God, to yield every desire, every ambition, every power and ability, and lay all at his blessed feet, that he may do with them and us as he will. This is consecration. This was the mind of Jesus. This is what must be done to be baptized in his name.
Into the Name of the Holy Ghost.—Everywhere in the Scriptures, the Holy Ghost, or the Spirit of God, is the agency of operation, the energy in working, the power of God manifest in the accomplishment of his purpose. It is the mighty life-force working out God’s will in harmony with his holy law. It was the creative power in the beginning in creation, brooding over chaos and bringing forth order. Gen. I:2. It is the power which recreates and peoples again the desolate earth. Ps. 104:30. It changes the heart and mind and gives birth to the new man in Christ Jesus. Eze. 36:26, 27 ; Ps. 51:10-12 ; John 3:3-5. It is that power in the Word by which we are sanctified, by which we are enabled to fulfill the righteousness of God’s law, manifest in the fruits of the Spirit in our live In short, it is by that mighty Spirit, that divine life and energy, that the love of God comes into the heart which erstwhile hated God’s law, which rested upon our Lord with such fulness, which enabled him to work miracles, which fitted him for his blessed work of “doing good.” Rom. 5:5 ; John 3:34 ; Matt. 12:28 ; Luke 4:18 ; Acts 10:38. It is the Spirit of God, the Spirit of Christ, the Spirit of Truth and of Grace, the Comforter, the mighty life-force and fulness of Deity, sent down to the world to save them and keep them.
Baptized into Service.—The baptism of the Spirit, being baptized into the name of the Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit (Hagios Pneuma), is a baptism for service. It is the preparation which God gives that we may do his work in his way. But this baptism must be preceded by cleansing from sin and emptying of self.
Into His Name.—And yet while the matter is expressed in detail in Matt. 28:19 (R. V.), “into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost,” it is all included in the name of Jesus Christ; “for in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him.” Col. 2:9, 10. In him was the Father’s name or character, his own character, and the fulness of the Spirit. Therefore when we read that the apostles baptized in his name, they carried out our Lord’s injunction. Acts 19:5. The Spirit of God is his representative here, his life given to his children to fit them for service. Those who truly receive Christ will receive his Spirit also.
Now we clearly see the idea expressed, that the formula found in Matt. 18:29 and in Acts 2:38 are equivalent. The writers equate “in the name of Jesus” with “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost”, and simply raise no conflict between the two. One can with good reason, at least see how some can conclude that “in the name of Jesus”, contains the Father’s authority and His Spirit. This position is still a far cry from one that rejects “Father, Son, and Holy Spirit”, to only accept “in the name of Jesus”. That position is the one on which people should surely be weary in promoting and accepting. As already seen, and what will be seen going forward, the Spirit of Prophecy via Ellen White constantly uses the formula stating, “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Ellen White
Christ gave his followers a positive promise that after his ascension he would send them his 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 Prince and 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.” {RH October 26, 1897, par. 9}
Ellen White
The word which the Lord has given me for our ministers and our churches is, “Go forward.” “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; 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 28:18-20.] {Lt54-1898.23}
HIS NAME
J.C. MUSSELMAN
Review and Herald – April 2, 1901
We find, that when the apostles were sent forth to do miracles in Christ’s name, they used His name always. Believers were baptized “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy. Ghost; “and in the name of Jesus devils were cast out. If these words become a mere form, the trouble is not that the name of Christ is used, but that the Spirit does not attend them. For how can one who has not the Spirit of Christ impart to another, by word or deed that which he himself has not?
LESSON FOR SUNDAY, MAY 12, 1901 THE GREAT COMMISSION.
They were to baptize into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is the Father’s law that the sinner violates; it is through Christ’s sacrifice that his transgression against that law is forgiven, and it is the Holy Spirit that leads him to repent of his trespass, hence the commission to baptize into the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Ellen White (1901)
Christ has made baptism the sign of entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He has made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Before man can find a home in the church, before passing the threshold of God’s spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the impress of the divine name, “The Lord our Righteousness.” Jeremiah 23:6. {6T 91.2}
THE OUTCOME OF THE GOSPEL. BY T. H. CRADDOCK.
Signs of the Times – February 29, 1904
“Go ye therefore”—”therefore” means “for this reason;” the reason as stated in the previous verse, namely, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, (always, or, all the way) even unto the end of the world.” Matt. 28:29, 20.
Affirmation on baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, along with what it means
Ellen White
We have the right; He has told us to go forth ‘in His name.’ He has told us to baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and to preach His gospel.” {Ms192-1905.14}
There are three living persons of the heavenly trio. In the name of these three powers,—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, those who receive Christ by living faith are baptized, and these powers will cooperate with the obedient subjects of heaven in their efforts to live the new life in Christ. {BTS March 1, 1906, par. 2}
More from Ellen White later regarding going forth “in His name”. Also, we see confirmation of believing in three, here stated as “three living persons” and “three powers”.
The Commission and Power. W. M. HEALRY
Present Truth – January 9, 1909
When Jesus was about to ascend up into heaven after His resurrection, He said to His disciples [quotes] …Matt. xxviii. 18-20. The message is for all nations. And Jesus promised to be with His messengers “alway,” till the work should be finished, “even unto the end of the world,” and with them, not in weakness, but having “all power . . . in heaven and earth.” This power, then, is at the command and for the use of the messenger of Christ. But the messenger must carry the true message and be found “teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” Should the messenger fail to “declare the whole counsel of God,” if for selfish reasons he “keep back a part,” then the promise is not for him. But he who gives all, and teaches all, as Christ taught, will have access to the ” all power,” and the companionship and aid of the Lord of grace and glory.
The strong sentiments expressed here was seen in some earlier articles, acknowledging Matt 28:19, but also that God messengers must carry out what Christ has command us to do. Whereas the next quote shares the concept that “in the name of Jesus” is equivalent the great commission regarding baptism.
Question Corner
Signs of the Times – September 26, 1911
Baptizing in the name of Jesus was equivalent to just what is stated in Matt. 28:19, 20,—”baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Baptized into the name of the Father was into the character of the Father —God’s righteousness imputed to them, their sins all forgiven. Baptized into the name of the Son means absolute renunciation of self. “He emptied Himself,” that God might fill Him. Baptized into the name of the Spirit is a fitting for service; for it is by the power of the Spirit that God’s children serve Him, and through the Spirit gifts are distributed to each one of them.
The next and last article before concluding, speaks on the words on baptism being a “divinely given formula”, and then speaks on what it means to be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit.
Baptized Into the Name
C.M. Snow
Review and Herald – September 26, 1912
THERE is significance in the fact that those who surrender to God, become his willing possession, and join his people, are baptized into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. All the divinely given formula of the Christian body means something… What does it mean to be baptized into the name of the Father? It means that we have signified our intention of bearing the character of the Father; for his name stands for his character. But to bear his character, we must be in harmony with his will. As his will is expressed in his law, it means that the principles of the law, the law in its entirety, are to be the actuating principles of our life. Christ declared to his followers that seeing him, they saw the Father. That was true because no will but the will of the Father was actuating him in all his life…
What is the significance of being baptized into the name of the Son? It means first that we have accepted him as our Saviour, that we are his through the purchasing power of his blood shed on Calvary. But being baptized into his name means that we are taking the same attitude toward the law of God that he took, that we are placing self on the altar, that we are seeking not our own interests, as Satan sought his in heaven, but, like Christ, are laying aside self and putting on the garments of service for others. It means that we shall make his experiences our experiences; that the spirit of sacrifice which he manifested shall be seen in us; that the interests of others shall be above our own. It means that we shall take the same attitude toward the tempter that Christ took, turning our backs upon temptation, and our faces toward God for the power and grace that will make us victors. Christ’s life was a life of service. If we have been baptized into his name, it means that we have entered a life of service…
What is signified by being baptized into the name of the Holy Spirit? The Holy Spirit was given to be a comforter to an otherwise comfortless world. There is no true comfort to those who are not in the truth. So the office work of the Holy Spirit is to ” guide you into all truth.”…We read that ” the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long- suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, self-control.” Being baptized into the name of the Holy Spirit signifies that we have expressed it as our intention to bear such fruit in our lives. But to be baptized into that name, and bear fruit of a different character, signifies that we have denied the name into which we were baptized, and that our lives are denying what our lips profess…
If, then, being baptized into the name of the Father, we are set before the world as representing his character; and if, being baptized into the name of the Son, we are placed before the world as those whose lives are representing the life of Christ; and if, being baptized into the name of the Holy Spirit, we are set before the world as those specially dedicated to the service of others and to the bearing of fruit for the kingdom ,— then what circumspection and what diligence, what carefulness and consecration, we should manifest in all our thoughts and words and actions!
Conclusion
When looking through the early Seventh-Day Adventist periodicals, it seems to be and impossible task to find anything denying the “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” formula. This mentality doesn’t seem to exist at all.
Also, while this document doesn’t cover the issue historically, here are a few examples of early writers affirming the great commission as in Matthew 28:19: In the Didache 7:1 dated in the 1st century A. D. you’ll find, “And concerning baptism, baptize this way: Having first said all these things, baptize into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, in living water.” Justin Martyr, a 2nd century Christian author in his 1st Apology says, “Then they are brought by us where there is water, and are born again, for they then receive washing in water in the name of God the Father and Master of all, and of our Savior Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit…” Irenaus, in his book “Against Heresies” (190 A. D.) Book 3, 17:1 says that, “And again, giving to the disciples the power of regeneration into God, He said to them, ‘Go and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.’ Tertullian, stated in his writings “On Baptism” (200 A.D.), “For the law of baptizing has been imposed, and the formula prescribed: ‘Go,’ He saith, ‘teach the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.’ The comparison with this law of that definition, ‘Unless a man have been reborn of water and Spirit, he shall not enter into the kingdom of the heavens,’ has tied faith to the necessity of baptism.”
So it would seem as though, the SDA pioneers were in there acceptance of Matthew 28:19 and the commission found in it to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. In closing, the following I believe shows why we seemingly, we have a conflict in formulas. Ellen White said in the following: Christ assured them, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” They were to go forth in his name, and he promised them the ministry of his Spirit… {RH March 15, 1898, par. 3}
In his name the warfare of truth against error was to be carried forward, subverting the strongholds of idolatry and sin. People were to be stirred to carry the truth to all tongues and nations, giving the trumpet a certain sound, and rousing the slumbering nations from spiritual apathy and death. The disciples were to be his witnesses. Their every action was to fasten attention on his name, as possessing that vital power by which men may be brought into oneness with him who is the source of all power and efficiency. They were to center their faith in him who is the fountain of mercies, blessings, and power. They were to present their petitions to the Father in his name, and then their prayers would be answered… Ellen White finishes the paragraph off stating that, They were to baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Christ’s name was to be their watchword, their badge of distinction, their bond of union, the authority for their course of action, and the source of their success. Nothing was to be recognized in his kingdom that did not bear his name and superscription. {RH March 15, 1898, par. 6}
It seems as though was happening in that all their work was done in the name of Christ, they went forth in His name. When they should up to do God’s work, including of baptizing, they “flashed” their badges that said, “In the name of Jesus”, if you will. To which they then would actually baptize people using the words which fell from the lips of Jesus Christ, baptizing “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” This appears to be the best conclusion based on the evidence examined. To see them as equivalent can be understandable to a degree. While to altogether deny, “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” formula, must considered a rejection of inspiration, and the historical SDA position.
BLESSINGS
