Baptism in Christ's name; non-Trinitarian understanding of the formula
The Church of God General Conference, as a non-Trinitarian denomination, understands Matthew 28:19 differently than Trinitarian churches. While affirming that believers are baptized upon confession of faith in Christ, the COGC does not interpret the 'name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit' as establishing three distinct persons or as supporting Trinitarianism.
The COGC's practice emphasizes baptism 'in the name of Christ' (Acts 2:38) as the primary formula, understanding this as the believer's identification with Christ and entry into his kingdom. Some COGC congregations may use the Matthew 28:19 formula while understanding it in non-Trinitarian categories: God the Father as the one God, Christ as his Son, and the Spirit as God's power or presence. The formula is used but interpreted through the lens of strict monotheism.
Scripture References
Sources
- COGC Statement of Faith
- Church of God General Conference Baptismal Position