In addition to the examples we have just seen in Saul (Acts 22) and the Jews on Pentecost (Acts 2), there are several other great, clear examples for us in the book of Acts, that display the way people receive Christ's salvation. Here is one more of them.

The Disciples in Ephesus

This will help us answer a good question: What if you were baptized, but not with the same baptism that the Bible talks about, the one Jesus commands? For example:

• Baptized, but did not believe first. And/Or...
• Baptized, but had not repented first. And/Or...
• Baptized, but not for the purpose of salvation (to have your sins washed away).

Can you be baptized again with the baptism that Jesus commands, as found in God's word?

Read Acts 19:1-5.

Were these people baptized with the baptism that Jesus commanded?

Remember that the baptism we've been reading about is not only for the forgiveness of sins, but also to "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). These people in Acts 19 had been "baptized" in some way, but they had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit.

What baptism had they received or been baptized into?

• "John's baptism" (v. 3-4), referring to the baptism of John the Baptist, prior to Jesus.
• Even though they had been immersed in water, their baptism was not the one Jesus commands.

How do we know? Paul tells them to be baptized again with the baptism that Jesus commands (in Jesus' name).

• Verse 5 -- they were baptized in the name of Jesus, with the baptism Jesus commands.

What do we learn?

If a person is not baptized with the baptism that Jesus commands, what do they need to do?

• Be baptized with the baptism that Jesus commands.

Were their hearts right, their motives good, the first time?

• Yes.
• But not into Jesus' baptism.

What are your thoughts on your own salvation? Where do you stand, in light of what the Bible has taught us? Do you need to change? If you are willing and ready to live faithfully for the rest of your life as a follower of Jesus and a member of his church, will you be baptized with the baptism that Jesus commands -- to have your sins washed away, to be saved?

We are ready and eager to help. Can we assist you in finding a group of authentic Christians nearby? You can be baptized (immersed in water) into Christ by anybody, but it would be ideal to get in touch with some people who have already been saved to be there for you and to help you in your new walk with Christ as a saved believer.

If you have made this decision, please do contact us with the email link below. We can help, and would be blessed to hear from you. If you would like to know more or learn more, check out the rest of knowtruth, particularly the Salvation section.