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Acts 2:38

Primary
Then 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.

What this passage establishes

Peter commands repentance, baptism in Jesus Christ’s name for remission, and reception of the Holy Ghost.

Why it matters in the argument

The apostolic record consistently treats repentance, water baptism, and Spirit reception as the commanded response to the gospel rather than optional religious accessories.

Apostolic connection

The singular name of Matthew 28:19 is enacted throughout Acts by baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, the revealed saving name.

Common misunderstanding

Baptism does not earn grace. It is a faith-response in which the believer obeys Christ, identifies with His death and burial, and calls on His name.

How to use it in conversation

Read the command, then show the apostles carrying it out. Let Acts interpret how Matthew 28:19 was understood.

Scripture connections

See which passages advance, clarify, or answer the argument

Continue this argument

Acts 8:16Continue the Matthew 28:19 and Acts 2:38 argument with the next passage.Romans 6:3-4Continue the The Gospel Pattern argument with the next passage.

Supporting Scriptures

Acts 10:47-48This later passage reinforces the same argument from another angle.Colossians 2:12This later passage reinforces the same argument from another angle.

Earlier in the argument

Luke 24:46-47Return to the prior step in Matthew 28:19 and Acts 2:38.Acts 2:37Return to the prior step in The Gospel Pattern.

Nearby curated context

Acts 2:32-36God raises and exalts Jesus, fulfilling Psalm 110 and installing the crucified Messiah in royal authority.Acts 2:37Convicted hearers ask the apostles for the proper response to the gospel.Acts 2:39The promise attached to Acts 2:38 extends to children, distant people, and all whom God calls.Acts 2:41Those who gladly received the apostolic word were baptized and added to the church.