It being the Church of God, or the Church of the Creator, (verse 23) the Lord set forth the conditions necessary for membership therein. We may ask, "Who is God, save He be the Lord?" And, "Who is the Lord, but the Great Creator?" It is His Church; it is just and equitable that He receives all who abide His requirements. Baptism is the "gate" by which we may enter His fold, and that gate is open to them who in sorrow for their past sins, resolve to do them no more.
Alma received further word from the Lord who instructed him that whosoever is baptized shall believe "in my name." By taking upon themselves His name, through baptism, they shall be called by His name, (verse 18) and them, He said, "Will I freely forgive" their trespasses.