Comprehensive Study Guide: The Meaning of “In the Name of” and Its Significance in Baptism
Introduction
The phrase “in the name of” holds profound meaning in the Bible, particularly in the context of ancient Jewish and Middle Eastern cultures. It signifies authority, representation, power, identity, and covenantal relationship. This study guide explores the general biblical significance of acting “in the name of” someone and connects these concepts to the Christian practice of baptism in the name of Jesus.
1. The General Meaning of “In the Name of”
1.1 Authority and Representation
Concept:
To do something “in the name of” someone in biblical times often meant to act with that person’s authority, as if they were present and performing the action themselves. This idea is reflected in many biblical passages, where acting “in the name of” God or Jesus carries divine authority.
Biblical Support:
John 14:13-14 (NKJV):
“And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it.”
Explanation:
Jesus assures His disciples that when they ask in His name, they invoke His authority and power, and He will act on their behalf.
1 Samuel 17:45 (NKJV):
“Then David said to the Philistine, ‘You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.'”
Explanation:
David confronts Goliath not by his own strength but under the authority of God, demonstrating that his actions carry God’s power and judgment.
1.2 Invocation of Power and Protection
Concept:
Invoking someone’s name, particularly God’s, in the Bible is often a plea for divine power, presence, or protection. This reflects the belief that calling on God’s name brings about His active involvement in a situation.
Biblical Support:
Proverbs 18:10 (NKJV):
“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.”
Explanation:
The name of the LORD is depicted as a strong tower, symbolizing safety and protection. Invoking God’s name was believed to bring this divine protection into reality.
Psalm 20:1 (NKJV):
“May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble; May the name of the God of Jacob defend you.”
Explanation:
The name of God is invoked as a source of defense in times of trouble, highlighting the protective power associated with His name.
Numbers 6:22-27 (NKJV):
“And they shall put My name on the children of Israel, and I will bless them.”
Explanation:
The Priestly Blessing (Birkat Kohanim) is a profound example of invoking God’s name for protection and blessing. By placing God’s name on the people, the priests were invoking His presence, favor, and peace upon the Israelites.
1.3 Identity and Character
Concept:
In ancient Jewish culture, a name was deeply tied to a person’s identity, character, and reputation. Acting “in the name of” someone, especially God, meant aligning oneself with that person’s values and attributes.
Biblical Support:
Exodus 34:5-7 (NKJV):
“And the LORD descended in the cloud and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD.”
Explanation:
God’s proclamation of His own name reveals His character and nature. To act in the name of the LORD is to act in alignment with His divine attributes.
Deuteronomy 18:19-20 (NKJV):
“But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in My name, which I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that prophet shall die.”
Explanation:
Speaking in God’s name carries His authority and truth. Misusing His name, or claiming to speak in His name without His command, is a serious violation.
2. The Significance of Baptism in the Name of Jesus
2.1 Authority and Representation in Baptism
Concept:
Baptism “in the name of Jesus” signifies being baptized under His authority. It is an act of submission to Jesus’ lordship and an acknowledgment that the individual now belongs to Him.
Biblical Support:
Matthew 28:18-19 (NKJV):
“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.'”
Explanation:
Jesus commands His disciples to baptize, emphasizing the authority given to Him. Baptism specifically “in the name of Jesus” became a common practice in the early Church, highlighting His unique authority as the risen Lord.
Acts 2:38 (NKJV):
“Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'”
Explanation:
Peter’s command to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ underscores that this baptism is done under His authority, with the power to bring forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
2.2 Invocation of Power and Salvation in Baptism
Concept:
Baptism in Jesus’ name is more than a symbolic act; it is an invocation of His saving power. It represents the believer’s entry into the covenant of salvation made possible by Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Biblical Support:
Acts 4:12 (NKJV):
“Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Explanation:
This verse highlights the exclusivity of Jesus’ name in bringing salvation. Baptism in His name signifies entering into the salvation that only He can provide.
Romans 6:3-4 (NKJV):
“Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?”
Explanation:
Baptism in Jesus’ name symbolizes being united with Him in His death and resurrection. This union invokes the power of Jesus’ death to cleanse sin and the power of His resurrection to bring new life.
