In the Name of Who?

Baptism: In the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost vs. In the Name of Jesus

Baptism is a foundational sacrament in Christianity, symbolizing initiation into the faith, repentance, and the cleansing of sins. Throughout Christian history, there has been debate about the precise formula or invocation used during baptism.

The two primary approaches are:

The Trinitarian formula: "In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.

"The Jesus-only or Oneness approach: "In the name of Jesus."

This opinion page explores the biblical foundations, theological implications, historical development, and practical considerations associated with these differing practices.

The Trinitarian Formula - The most cited biblical basis for baptizing "in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost" is Matthew 28:19, where Jesus commands His disciples:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

This verse is central to the doctrine of the Trinity and has traditionally been interpreted as establishing the canonical baptismal formula for most Christian denominations. Additionally, Acts 2:38 states:

"Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins."

Here, Peter emphasizes baptism in the name of Jesus, which has led to different interpretative approaches.

The "In the Name of Jesus" Practice - Some groups, notably Oneness Pentecostals, emphasize Acts 2:38 and similar passages as authoritative, arguing that baptism should be performed specifically in the name of Jesus Christ, reflecting the earliest Christian practice. Key biblical passages:

• Acts 2:38: "Then Peter said 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."

• Acts 8:16: "For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus."

• Acts 10:48: "He commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ."

Proponents argue that these passages suggest that the early church baptized exclusively in Jesus' name, emphasizing the personal and divine authority of Jesus.

The traditional Christian doctrine, The Doctrine of the Trinity, affirms one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Trinitarian baptismal formula reflects this doctrine explicitly and is seen as affirming the fullness of Christian belief. Baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit aligns with the doctrine of the Trinity, expressing the believer's acknowledgment of all three persons. 

Oneness Theology emphasizes the unity of God, asserting that Jesus is the manifestation or fullness of God, and that baptizing solely in Jesus' name reflects the monotheistic nature of God. They see baptism in Jesus’ name as more biblically authentic, based on the early church's practice, and as a way to emphasize the unity of God.

Theological Tension

Trinitarian theology maintains the distinction among the persons of the Godhead, making the full formula important.

Authority of Jesus, or Oneness advocates emphasize the authority of Jesus' name as the primary or sole invocation, viewing the Father and Holy Spirit as aspects or manifestations of Jesus.

Historical Development

The early church's baptismal practices varied, but the most common formula in early Christian writings and liturgy appears to be the Trinitarian formula.

Early Christian Writings:

• Didache (1st-2nd century): Recommends baptizing "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit."

• Justin Martyr (2nd century): Describes baptism as "in the name of Jesus Christ."

• Tertullian (3rd century): Advocates for the Trinitarian formula.

The shift towards the Trinitarian formula is believed to have been solidified by the 4th century, formalized in church councils and creeds. Most Protestant traditions adhere to the Trinitarian formula, citing Matthew 28:19 as authoritative. Some groups, especially Oneness Pentecostals, revert to or emphasize the baptism in Jesus' name based on their interpretation of Acts.

Practical and Ecumenical Considerations

Unity and ecumenism disputes over baptismal formulas can impede ecumenical dialogue. Many denominations recognize baptisms performed in either formula as valid if performed with faith and proper intent, emphasizing the importance of the believer's faith over the exact words.

Summary and Conclusion

The choice between baptizing "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" versus "in the name of Jesus" hinges on theological interpretation, biblical hermeneutics, historical practice, and ecclesiastical tradition.

Biblical Evidence: Both approaches find support in Scripture—Matthew 28:19 for the Trinitarian formula, and Acts 2:38, 8:16, 10:48 for Jesus' name.

Theological Perspective: Trinitarian doctrine emphasizes the fullness of God's revelation in three persons, while Oneness theology stresses the unity of God's manifest presence in Jesus.

Historical Trends: The early church predominantly used the Trinitarian formula, though Jesus' name was central to early baptismal practice.

Practical Implication: Most Christian denominations accept baptisms performed in either name if performed with faith, though the official liturgical formula varies.

In conclusion, both practices are rooted in biblical texts but reflect different doctrinal emphases. The choice of baptismal formula is often tied to doctrinal identity and theological tradition, with ongoing ecumenical dialogue seeking common ground. But, in the end, despite the differences in baptismal formulas—whether in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, or in the name of Jesus—we are all followers of Christ. In my humble opinion, these distinctions can be likened to the familiar debate of saying "to-may-to" versus "to-mah-to"— different pronunciations, but the same underlying meaning. At the heart of it all is the core message of the Gospel: the good news of Jesus Christ and His role in reconciling our relationship with God. Jesus Himself made the path clear and simple by summarizing the entire law into two main commandments: to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). Following these commandments unlocks the meaning behind all other teachings and practices. Baptism, regardless of the specific formula used, is an outward expression of that inward faith and commitment to Christ. Ultimately, what matters most is the sincerity of our faith and our dedication to living according to His teachings. These small differences in practice are secondary to the foundational truth that we are united in Christ, striving to embody His love and grace in our lives. As followers of Jesus, we are called to focus on the essential message of reconciliation, love, and salvation, trusting that God's grace covers the rest.