Calling on the Name of Jesus - Chapter 2 quote

Here is a quote from Chapter 2 of my book Calling on the Name of Jesus.

Chapter 2: No-Formula or Silent Baptism

p. 33,

Alexander Campbell affirmed the following statement in the Campbell-Rice Debate:

“What are the essentials of baptism? … 3) the divine formula of words, into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit … A failure in any one of these may affect the validity of baptism.”18

Alexander Campbell, one of the founders of the church of Christ denomination, actually taught that one of the things that makes New Testament baptism valid is the proper baptismal formula! Campbell went on to state:

“In the third place, I proceed to show that we have most explicit proof that God forgives sins for the Name’s sake of his Son, or when the Name of Jesus Christ is named upon us in immersion.”19

Alexander Campbell fully affirmed that “into the name of” referred to words spoken by the baptizer!

“… in baptism there is a real transition from one state to another, clearly indicated by the phrase ‘into the name,’ &c. … This is consummated by the words ‘I immerse thee into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.’ Words so solemn and significant as these, are not to be expressed without a most intelligent consideration, and proper preparation on the part of the penitent.”20

Jason L. Weatherly