The Apostolic Blueprint for Salvation: Repentance, Holy Spirit, Baptism, Faith, and Works Explored

By Apostle Lily Dsouza | Apostolic Prophetic Church Foundation International

What does it truly mean “to be saved?”

From the perspective of the Oneness Apostolic

faith, salvation is not merely a doctrinal belief—it is a transformative, life-altering experience. It means walking in the power of the Holy Spirit, undergoing full water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ, and living a life of faith and obedience that pleases God. At Apostolic Prophetic Church Foundation International, we teach that salvation is not only a theological concept, but a divine encounter that shapes your destiny and eternity.

In today’s world, the question “how can I be saved?” requires more than a superficial answer. It demands that we return to the Apostolic blueprint for salvation—a path outlined in Scripture and demonstrated in the early church. This divine plan has shaped my life personally, and it has the power to transform yours. It leads to an intimate relationship with the God of Heaven and Earth—a relationship that will last for all eternity (John 3:16).

Understanding Salvation through an Apostolic Lens

Salvation means deliverance from sin and its consequences. While the concept is foundational across Christianity, within the Oneness Apostolic Church, we follow a clear and Biblical pathway to salvation. This path is not based on tradition or opinion, but on the Word of God.

One excellent resource that supports this teaching is Essential Doctrines of the Bible by David K. Bernard. It offers a concise, yet in-depth overview of key Apostolic doctrines and is highly recommended for anyone seeking deeper insight into the faith we uphold at Apostolic Prophetic Church Foundation International.

The Gospel: The Foundation of Salvation

The starting point of salvation is the gospel—the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Romans 3:23 reminds us that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Sin has a price, and Romans 6:23 declares, "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

Through His sacrifice, Jesus paid the ultimate price for our redemption. Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches us that we are saved by grace through faith—not by our own works. Yet, how we respond to this gift determines whether or not we will experience salvation. That response is where the Apostolic blueprint comes into focus.

The Apostolic Blueprint: Acts 2:38

The Apostolic formula for salvation is found in Acts 2:38:"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."

This verse outlines three core elements of salvation:

• Repentance – turning away from sin and surrendering to God.

• Baptism in Jesus' Name – full immersion in water as a declaration of faith and washing away of sins.

• Receiving the Holy Spirit – the infilling of God's Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues as in the early church.

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This threefold plan is the divine architecture for salvation that we teach and live by at Apostolic Prophetic Church Foundation International. The Power of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is not merely a feeling—it is the very presence of God dwelling within us. Through the Spirit, we are empowered, comforted, and transformed into the image of Christ.

In his book Justification and the Holy Spirit, David Bernard explores how justification is more than a legal declaration—it is a spiritual experience rooted in the new birth. At our church, we believe that the Spirit’s work is central to our daily walk and eternal hope.

Baptism in Jesus' Name

Baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ is not optional—it is essential. It symbolizes the burial of the old man and the emergence of a new creation in Christ (Romans 6:4). In the Apostolic context, baptism signifies total identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

The New Birth by David K. Bernard provides a powerful overview of this vital doctrine and affirms the Apostolic stance on Jesus' name baptism. As Apostle Lily Dsouza teaches, “There is no other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Faith and Works: A Balanced Walk

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1). True faith goes beyond belief; it is demonstrated through action. As James wrote, “faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).

In James: Faith at Work, Daniel Segraves offers deep Apostolic insights into how faith and works go hand in hand. At Apostolic Prophetic Church Foundation International, we emphasize both faith in Jesus and a life of obedience to His Word.

The Results of Salvation: A New Creation

When we follow the Apostolic plan of salvation, we are born again (John 3:5). According to 2 Corinthians 5:17, “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

This transformation is more than moral improvement—it’s a supernatural change. We walk in newness of life, empowered by the Spirit, led by truth, and destined for eternal glory.

Conclusion: Are You Ready to Build According to the Blueprint?

Just like a master architect uses a blueprint to erect a sound structure, so too must we follow the Apostolic blueprint to build our spiritual lives. Each step—repentance, baptism in Jesus’ name, and the infilling of the Holy Spirit—is designed by God for our salvation and spiritual growth.

At Apostolic Prophetic Church Foundation International, we are dedicated to helping you follow this divine design. Whether you're just beginning your journey or seeking a deeper walk with God, the time to act is now.

Have you made mistakes? Fallen short? God’s plan provides the path back. Repent. Be baptized. Be filled. Be renewed. It’s time to build your life on the rock of truth.