I'll launch into a hot button issue...
I believe that water baptism is absolutely essential for Christian salvation. However, I'm partial to pouring as a mode of baptism. I'm not wanting to debate this here but I'll give you a link to a site that addresses some of the reasons why I believe this (
http://www.reformedonline.com/view/r...%20Baptism.htm). While I don't entirely agree with this person on every point, I believe he adequately explains why effusion is at the very least an equally valid mode of baptism.
Now to the main point of this post...
I don't believe in the "Jesus Name" formula.
That's right, I don't believe in the "Jesus Name" formula. However, I also don't believe in the Trinitarian formula. In fact, I don't believe that one can biblically establish a baptismal "formula" from Scripture. In addition, I believe that to establish a set "formula" is to sacramentalize baptism and negate baptism's true biblical blessing. In Apostolic churches throughout the world a formula such as,
"According to the profession of your faith, I hereby baptize you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins."
..., or some such formula. I believe that this isn't biblical.
I believe that it is the convert who is to call on the name of Jesus Christ at their water baptism, not a religious official. That negates baptism even having a said "formula".
I just thought I'd drop that one your way here guys.
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