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Understanding Four Views on Baptism: Counterpoints Church Life

Cole Powell

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Baptism is a central practice in the Christian faith, but there is significant diversity in how different Christian traditions understand and practice it. In this book, four leading scholars present their distinct views on baptism, offering a comprehensive overview of the major perspectives on this important sacrament.

Understanding Four Views on Baptism (Counterpoints: Church Life)

by John H. Armstrong

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3172 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	224 pages

Chapter 1: Baptism as Initiation into Christ by N.T. Wright

N.T. Wright, a world-renowned New Testament scholar, argues that baptism is not merely a symbol of faith but an initiation into the death and resurrection of Christ. Through baptism, believers are united with Christ and become part of his body, the church. Wright emphasizes the covenantal nature of baptism, seeing it as a sign and seal of God's promises to his people.

Chapter 2: Baptism as a Sign of Faith by D.A. Carson

D.A. Carson, a prominent evangelical scholar, presents baptism as a sign of faith. He argues that baptism is not essential for salvation but is an outward expression of the inward reality of faith in Christ. Carson emphasizes the importance of personal faith and decision in baptism, as well as the role of the church in nurturing and discipling believers.

Chapter 3: Baptism as a Gift of God by Stanley Hauerwas

Stanley Hauerwas, a leading theologian and ethicist, views baptism as a gift of God. He argues that baptism is not something that we do for God but something that God does for us. Hauerwas emphasizes the transformative power of baptism, seeing it as a means by which we are incorporated into the community of faith and empowered to live out our baptismal calling.

Chapter 4: Baptism as a Call to Discipleship by Stanley Grenz

Stanley Grenz, a renowned theologian and ecumenist, presents baptism as a call to discipleship. He argues that baptism is not just a one-time event but an ongoing journey of following Christ. Grenz emphasizes the importance of baptism in shaping our identity as Christians and calling us to live in accordance with the teachings of Jesus.

This book provides an in-depth examination of four major views on baptism, exploring their biblical, historical, and theological foundations. By engaging with these diverse perspectives, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the significance and meaning of baptism in the Christian faith. Whether you are a scholar, pastor, or layperson, this book will challenge your assumptions and enrich your understanding of this essential sacrament.

About the Authors

N.T. Wright is a world-renowned New Testament scholar and author. He is the former Bishop of Durham and currently serves as a research professor at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford.

D.A. Carson is a prominent evangelical scholar and author. He is a professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and has written numerous books on biblical studies and theology.

Stanley Hauerwas is a leading theologian and ethicist. He is a professor of divinity at Duke University and has written extensively on Christian ethics, ecclesiology, and pacifism.

Stanley Grenz was a renowned theologian and ecumenist. He was a professor of theology at Baylor University and served as president of the Evangelical Theological Society.

Understanding Four Views on Baptism (Counterpoints: Church Life)

by John H. Armstrong

4.5 out of 5