The Singular Name of the Holy Ghost in Matthew 28:19

This study explores the meaning of "name" in Matthew 28:19, examining the identity of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, and how the apostles understood and applied this commission through baptism in the name of Jesus Christ.

1. Understanding the Significance of "Name" in Scripture

1.1 The Singular "Name" in Matthew 28:19

Verses: Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16

The Greek word for "name" in Matthew 28:19 is singular, indicating one unified name.
This singular name encompasses the full authority and identity of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
The apostles, who received the commission, understood this to refer to a single, all-encompassing name.

1.2 "Name" as Authority, Character, and Essence

Verses: Exodus 3:13-15; John 17:6; John 17:26

In biblical context, a name represents the person's character, authority, and entire essence.
To baptize in a name is to baptize into the authority, identity, and ownership of that person.
God revealed His name and character throughout the scriptures, signifying His presence and power.

2. The Unified Identity of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

2.1 The Father Revealed in the Son

Verses: John 14:7-9; Colossians 2:9; Isaiah 9:6

Jesus declared that seeing Him was seeing the Father, revealing the Father's nature through Himself.
The fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily in Christ, indicating His complete divine nature.
Prophecy identifies Jesus as the "Everlasting Father" and "Mighty God".

2.2 The Holy Ghost as the Spirit of Christ

Verses: John 14:16-18; Romans 8:9-11; 2 Corinthians 3:17

Jesus promised to send "another Comforter" who would be Himself returning to His disciples.
The Spirit of God is also identified as the Spirit of Christ, dwelling within believers.
The scripture states that "the Lord is that Spirit," connecting the Holy Ghost directly to Jesus Christ.

2.3 One God Manifested in Different Roles

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; 1 Timothy 3:16

Scripture consistently teaches the absolute oneness of God, declaring there is no other God.
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost are not three separate divine persons, but different manifestations or roles of the one God.
God was manifest in the flesh as Jesus Christ, revealing Himself in a saving capacity to humanity.

3. Apostolic Fulfillment of the Great Commission

3.1 Consistent Practice of Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5

The apostles, who received the commission directly from Jesus, consistently baptized converts in the name of Jesus Christ.
Peter's sermon on the Day of Pentecost explicitly commanded baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
Examples throughout the book of Acts demonstrate this uniform practice, from Samaria to Ephesus.

3.2 The Authority of Jesus' Name in All Things

Verses: Colossians 3:17; Acts 4:12

Believers are instructed to do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved, highlighting its unique power.
Baptism in Jesus' name is the New Testament pattern for entering into the covenant and receiving salvation.

4. The All-Encompassing Power of the Name Jesus

4.1 Jesus: The Saving Name

Verses: Matthew 1:21; Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9-11

The name Jesus means "Jehovah saves," signifying His divine mission to deliver humanity from sin.
It is the only name by which salvation is found, emphasizing its exclusive and essential nature.
At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

4.2 The Name That Embodies All Divine Titles

Verses: John 5:43; John 10:25; John 17:11-12

Jesus came in His Father's name, indicating that the Father's name is revealed in Him.
He performed miracles and taught with the authority of His own name, demonstrating His divine power.
The name Jesus encompasses the full identity and authority of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, making it the singular name for baptism.