“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, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20
If we limit our interpretation of this part of the Great Commission as a reference to baptism, that is water baptism by immersion, we may be missing a key element of Jesus’ command.
Looking closely at the order of this command, Jesus said, “make disciples.” He did not say make converts. Converts become disciples when they understand their sin, their need for a savior, repent and get baptized in obedience to the command of Christ. Conversion precedes discipleship and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Those responding to Peter’s sermon asked what shall we do? “Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
Paul said, “The person without the Spirit does not receive what comes from God’s Spirit, because it is foolishness to him; he is not able to understand it. “ 1 Cor 2:14
With this understanding, would it make sense for Jesus to command us make disciples and then baptize them? I think not.
“Baptizing them” was more than water.
Frequently, the words of Jesus have a deeper meaning, a more in-depth truth to be understood. Take for instance His shocking words, “The one who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day, because My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink.” John 6:54
It should be obvious Jesus was not suggesting that any would eat His flesh or drink His blood, though some did misunderstand. Elaborating to His disciples later Jesus said, “The words I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.” John 6:63
In light of this interpretation “baptizing them in the name of the Father…” would mean totally immersing new believers in the things of God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Make disciples by engrossing, engaging, plunging them into the truths of godliness, holiness, and spirituality. Which is what happened to those who were baptized after Peter’s sermon: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.” Acts 2:42
A true disciple “delights in the Lord’s instruction, and he meditates on it day and night.” Psalm 1:2
Blessed by you… Bro. Sherman
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