Baptism, Why Wait: Faith's Response in Conversion

by Rees Bryant

Symbolism or Substance?"In this book Why Wait? Dr. Rees Bryant has made a valuable contribution to the exposition of Paul on baptism in his letters. It is a clear exposition of the relationship between baptism and conversion. The author has spent a long time in this field and has produced a very careful study into the meaning of baptism. . . . This will be an excellent book to put into the hands of students, pastors and laymen, who will be very grateful to have such a lucid work on their bookshelves. It will not only clarify what baptism is, but they will be able to preach its meaning."G.R. Beasley-Murray, PhDEast Sussex, England"Readable, practical, and biblical! I highly recommend this book by Dr. Bryant. It addresses a topic of critical importance in the church today, and does so with competence and without compromise."Jack Cottrell, PhDCincinnati Bible Seminary"Rees Bryant places a wholesome emphasis on the place of baptism in conversion and urges that penitent believers be baptized without delaying; for additional programs of instruction. . . . his case for the essentiality of baptism is unanswerable. Many counter arguments are kindly refuted. In our time when baptismal teaching is being neglected, Bryant's study places a wholesome emphasis."Jack P. Lewis, PhDHarding Graduate School of Religion"Repentance and baptism cannot be separated if we are true to the apostolic faith. Baptism is the outward testimony of the human acceptance of the gift of divine grace. It must he kept as a sacramental act that unites the finite sinner with an infinite and forgiving God. As such baptism cannot become a ploy, a reward, a rite of self-gratification or a superficial symbol of church membership.Dean S. Gilliland, PhDFuller Theological Seminar

224 pages, Hardcover

First published October 3, 1999