Quaker interpretation of Matthew 28:19 reflects their unique relationship to the sacraments and baptism. Most traditional and evangelical Quaker branches affirm that this verse establishes the Trinitarian formula for Christian baptism and witness to Christ's mandate for the church's Great Commission. However, Quakers do not practice water baptism in their unprogrammed traditions, viewing it as a metaphor for spiritual transformation and cleansing by the Spirit.

This creates an interesting interpretive position: Quakers recognize the Trinitarian affirmation in Matthew 28:19 and the theological imperative for baptism without practicing the external rite. Many Quakers understand this verse as authorizing spiritual baptism in the name of the Trinity rather than exclusively water baptism. Some evangelical Quaker groups, particularly in Africa and other renewal contexts, do practice water baptism and see Matthew 28:19 as supporting this practice with proper Trinitarian form.

Progressive Quakers may emphasize the commission itself—making disciples, teaching, witnessing to God's redemptive work—as the primary meaning, with the baptismal reference understood as a cultural or historical expression rather than a binding command for all contexts. The diversity in Quaker baptismal practice reflects their broader principle that the external form matters less than the inward spiritual transformation and commitment to following Christ.