Acts 19:5
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.
Original Language Analysis
ἐβαπτίσθησαν
this they were baptized
G907
ἐβαπτίσθησαν
this they were baptized
Strong's:
G907
Word #:
3 of 9
to immerse, submerge; to make whelmed (i.e., fully wet); used only (in the new testament) of ceremonial ablution, especially (technically) of the ordi
εἰς
in
G1519
εἰς
in
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
4 of 9
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὄνομα
the name
G3686
ὄνομα
the name
Strong's:
G3686
Word #:
6 of 9
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Acts 8:16(For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)Acts 8:12But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.Acts 2:38Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.1 Corinthians 10:2And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;Acts 10:48And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Historical Context
This occurred around AD 53-54 in Ephesus. The practice of re-baptizing those who had only John's baptism appears unique to this transitional situation. Later Christian baptism was always 'in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,' though Acts frequently emphasizes the name of Jesus.
Questions for Reflection
- What does baptism 'into the name' of Jesus reveal about Christian identity and belonging?
- How should churches respond to those with incomplete understanding of baptism or the gospel?
Analysis & Commentary
When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus—The immediate response demonstrates genuine conversion's eagerness to align with revealed truth. Baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus (εἰς τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ) signifies baptism into Christ's authority and ownership, confessing Him as Lord and Messiah. The Greek preposition εἰς (into) suggests entering into relationship with Christ, not merely ritual compliance. This re-baptism is unique in Acts, addressing the specific situation of those baptized before Pentecost. It establishes that Christian baptism is Trinitarian in essence (Matthew 28:19) and Christ-focused in confession.