What is the meaning of Acts 19:5? On hearing this • The Ephesian disciples had just listened to Paul's clarification that John’s baptism was preparatory and pointed to faith in Jesus (Acts 19:4). • Scripture repeatedly shows that genuine faith begins with hearing the truthful proclamation of God’s Word (Romans 10:17; Acts 10:44). • Their immediate response underscores that the gospel message carries divine authority and demands a decision (Hebrews 4:12). They were baptized • Baptism follows belief as an outward, obedient testimony of an inward reality (Acts 2:38; Mark 16:16). • It is not presented as a suggestion but as an ordained step of discipleship, affirming the literal command of Christ (Matthew 28:19). • The swift action here mirrors other accounts where new believers did not delay obedience—such as the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:36-38) and the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:33). Into the name of the Lord Jesus • Being baptized “into the name” signifies identification with His person, work, and authority (Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:27). • This phrase highlights the sufficiency of Jesus alone for salvation, setting Him apart from any previous preparatory rites (John 14:6; Colossians 2:12). • It also expresses transfer of allegiance: they now belong to Him, not merely to a movement or tradition (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Summary Acts 19:5 records a decisive, obedient response to the gospel: upon hearing the full message of Christ, these believers were immediately baptized, openly identifying themselves with the Lord Jesus. Their example underscores that saving faith comes through hearing the Word, that baptism is an essential step of obedience, and that true disciples publicly embrace exclusive allegiance to Jesus Christ. |
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