UPCI

[scotty]

Originally Posted by jfrog

Just so I can get a better idea of where you are coming from, would you say that in general those baptized with the words in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost understand that their salvation is by the authority of Jesus? Or would you say that those baptized that way ought to be rebaptized with the words in Jesus name?

In general, I would say no, most do not understand. Sad thing is, they should. For the most part it is safe to say that those being baptised are usually new converts that have little understanding of whats going on. One of our failures I believe is baptism without instruction. There is a person in a church who commonly takes new members aside and with a 10 min talk has them ready and eager to be baptized, yet its obvious they have little understanding of what it really is and why its to be done, much less an understanding of by what name of who they are being cleansed. I believe we should be instructing new converts about baptism and by what name and authority they are being cleansed. I believe if one fully understands this, then I dont believe it would be an issue what was said over them. Ultimately the power behind the authority of the Jesus Christ at baptism is in that persons belief and faith in Jesus Christ as their savior, not what is said.