What does baptism mean? Why does it matter? It depends on who you ask. . . .
Surveying the views on baptism of eight of history’s most influential theologians, Russell W. Haitch expertly explains the development and bases for the varieties of interpretation and practice of this holy sacrament throughout modern Christianity. First identifying the guiding motif in each of these foundational perspectives, Haitch ably and accessibly demonstrates how each yields unique theological and practical implications for Christian belief and life.
Engaging the work of Thomas Aquinas, Karl Barth, John Calvin, Martin Luther, Aimee Semple McPherson, Alexander Schmemann, John Howard Yoder, and John Wesley, Haitch illuminates the differences between Eastern Orthodox, Anabaptist, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Lutheran, Reformed, neo-orthodox, and Pentecostal traditions.
Russell W. Haitch is Assistant Professor of Christian Education at Bethany Theological Seminary in Richmond, Indiana, where he also serves as Director of the Institute for Ministry with Youth and Young Adults. He earned his PhD at Princeton Theological Seminary and is ordained in the United Methodist Church.
