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Baptism: Three Views
The Christian church confesses "one baptism." But the church's answers to how, whom and when to baptize, and even what it means or does, are famously varied. This book provides a forum for thoughtful proponents of three principal evangelical views to state their case, respond to the others, and then provide a summary response and statement. Sinclair Ferguson sets out the case for infant baptism, Bruce Ware presents the case for believers' baptism, and Anthony Lane argues for a mixed practice.
As with any good conversation on a controversial topic, this book raises critical issues, challenges preconceptions and discloses the soft points in each view. Evangelicals who wish to understand better their own church's practice or that of their neighbor, or who perhaps are uncertain of their own views, will value this incisive book.
As with any good conversation on a controversial topic, this book raises critical issues, challenges preconceptions and discloses the soft points in each view. Evangelicals who wish to understand better their own church's practice or that of their neighbor, or who perhaps are uncertain of their own views, will value this incisive book.
200 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2009
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276 people want to read
About the author
David F. Wright
8 books1 followerLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
David F. Wright (1937-2008) was professor of patristic and Reformation Christianity at New College, University of Edinburgh. He wrote a number of books on both historical and theological topics.
David F. Wright (1937-2008) was professor of patristic and Reformation Christianity at New College, University of Edinburgh. He wrote a number of books on both historical and theological topics.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 10, 2025
4/5 – I would recommend
Like many “viewpoint” books, this one presents three separate perspectives with responses from each author:
Ware (Credobaptist), Ferguson (Paedobaptist), and Lane (Dual-View).
I thought Ware and Ferguson offered strong arguments for their positions. Lane, however, did not contribute much of substance to the discussion. I will briefly compare Ware and Ferguson first and then comment on Lane.
Both Ware and Ferguson employ the regulative principle in forming their conclusions about baptism, and both rely heavily on exegesis.
Admittedly, I am biased toward the Baptist position and found Ware’s arguments far more compelling than Ferguson’s. Ware provides many of the exegetical and practical reasons for being a credobaptist. That said, I don’t think many paedobaptists will find his chapter persuasive, since he does not frame his position within a covenantal framework. This is not to say Ware ignores the covenants- rather he does not develop a covenantal framework for his argument.
Ferguson, on the other hand, offers one of the best succinct defenses of paedobaptism I’ve read. I would definitely recommend his chapter to those who want to better understand that position. However, I find his covenantal argument, his exegesis of Acts 2:39, and his practical concerns unconvincing. Addressing each of these points would go beyond the scope of this review; moreover, they have been discussed thoroughly elsewhere.
It’s interesting that both authors appeal to silence. Ware argues it is striking that Scripture never mentions infant baptism; Ferguson counters that it is striking there is no mention of infants being excluded from the covenant community. I find both arguments from silence unconvincing, as either could be made depending on one’s assumptions—the fact that both rely on this method only reinforces its weakness.
Lane contends that the early church held to neither position consistently, making it difficult to take a definitive stance. He therefore focuses on historical data to make his point. His practical observations about both perspectives are thoughtful, but by refusing to take a side, he fails to engage the practical implications of his own position.
Ultimately, Lane’s chapter was underwhelming and brought down the overall quality of the book. A chapter arguing for a regenerative view of baptism might have been a stronger and more balanced contribution.
Overall, though, the book is a valuable resource for anyone exploring baptismal theology from the credo and paedobaptist position.
Like many “viewpoint” books, this one presents three separate perspectives with responses from each author:
Ware (Credobaptist), Ferguson (Paedobaptist), and Lane (Dual-View).
I thought Ware and Ferguson offered strong arguments for their positions. Lane, however, did not contribute much of substance to the discussion. I will briefly compare Ware and Ferguson first and then comment on Lane.
Both Ware and Ferguson employ the regulative principle in forming their conclusions about baptism, and both rely heavily on exegesis.
Admittedly, I am biased toward the Baptist position and found Ware’s arguments far more compelling than Ferguson’s. Ware provides many of the exegetical and practical reasons for being a credobaptist. That said, I don’t think many paedobaptists will find his chapter persuasive, since he does not frame his position within a covenantal framework. This is not to say Ware ignores the covenants- rather he does not develop a covenantal framework for his argument.
Ferguson, on the other hand, offers one of the best succinct defenses of paedobaptism I’ve read. I would definitely recommend his chapter to those who want to better understand that position. However, I find his covenantal argument, his exegesis of Acts 2:39, and his practical concerns unconvincing. Addressing each of these points would go beyond the scope of this review; moreover, they have been discussed thoroughly elsewhere.
It’s interesting that both authors appeal to silence. Ware argues it is striking that Scripture never mentions infant baptism; Ferguson counters that it is striking there is no mention of infants being excluded from the covenant community. I find both arguments from silence unconvincing, as either could be made depending on one’s assumptions—the fact that both rely on this method only reinforces its weakness.
Lane contends that the early church held to neither position consistently, making it difficult to take a definitive stance. He therefore focuses on historical data to make his point. His practical observations about both perspectives are thoughtful, but by refusing to take a side, he fails to engage the practical implications of his own position.
Ultimately, Lane’s chapter was underwhelming and brought down the overall quality of the book. A chapter arguing for a regenerative view of baptism might have been a stronger and more balanced contribution.
Overall, though, the book is a valuable resource for anyone exploring baptismal theology from the credo and paedobaptist position.
June 6, 2021
A short, interesting exposition on three evangelical views of baptism: paedobaptism, credobaptism and dual-practice baptism. I had never heard of the third one. This is not a "big" book by any stretch of the imagination, but it has served its purpose of adding some nuance to my thought and clearing up some confusion about the theology behind infants' baptism. I deem this book very helpful, especially so if one is (like myself) at the beginning of their journey in trying to understand the profound and far-reaching concept of Christian baptism.
May 17, 2012
This book ought to be titled "Three Evangelical Views of Baptism". Doing so would underscore that this book isn't inclusive of a wider discussion of baptism which would include those churches which teach some form of baptismal regeneration (some mainline churches as well as Catholicism). It also reflects Christian Smith's observation of "pervasive interpretive pluralism" within evangelicalism. At the end of the day, it seems that about the only thing all three writers agree upon is the baptism of new converts.
The book is organized around arguments for "credobaptism", "paedobaptism" and "dual practice" (the latter a view allowing for both infant baptism or the option of waiting until a later time to baptize). The format is an essay by the person holding that view followed by responses by the two holding other views, with a final rejoinder. What this does reveal is the different hermeneutic assumptions of each approach with credobaptists not being willing to go beyond the explicit teaching of the biblical texts dealing with baptism whereas paedobaptists doing much more of a theological exposition of scripture. The dual view seems to use the silence of scripture on the issue of infants and children as license to try to read the history of the early centuries of the church back into the biblical text.
What none of the authors really address is what it means for us to affirm "one baptism". How shall we view the baptisms of others with different beliefs? Should we "re-baptize" those outside our communions--or is this a scandal?
What's troubling to me with regard to a book like this is that it seems merely to perpetuate the divisions within the church rather than lead to an understanding of how those divisions may be mended. Who will lead the way to a different conversation about baptism?
The book is organized around arguments for "credobaptism", "paedobaptism" and "dual practice" (the latter a view allowing for both infant baptism or the option of waiting until a later time to baptize). The format is an essay by the person holding that view followed by responses by the two holding other views, with a final rejoinder. What this does reveal is the different hermeneutic assumptions of each approach with credobaptists not being willing to go beyond the explicit teaching of the biblical texts dealing with baptism whereas paedobaptists doing much more of a theological exposition of scripture. The dual view seems to use the silence of scripture on the issue of infants and children as license to try to read the history of the early centuries of the church back into the biblical text.
What none of the authors really address is what it means for us to affirm "one baptism". How shall we view the baptisms of others with different beliefs? Should we "re-baptize" those outside our communions--or is this a scandal?
What's troubling to me with regard to a book like this is that it seems merely to perpetuate the divisions within the church rather than lead to an understanding of how those divisions may be mended. Who will lead the way to a different conversation about baptism?
June 16, 2017
This is a brief but solid book on baptism. One thing I learned was that there even exists a dual view approach. Lane is closer to paedobaptism than might initially come across, he just doesn't go far enough. He accepts many of Ferguson's arguments, but remained unconvinced that just because it's permissible doesn't mean it should be prescribed.
Ferguson does a great job explaining covenant theology which is at the heart of why we baptize infants, not because they are regenerated by it, nor is there a guarantee that they will come to faith, but because the covenantal promise to Abraham and in the new testament (Acts 2:39)that the "promise is for you and for your children". The children of believers are in the covenant, and baptism is a sign of the covenant, and if they fail to come to faith, they are subject to the curses of the covenant.
Ware explains the baptist position well, but has to work hard to explain why "household" didn't include infants in the new testament examples, and to show a discontinuity of the old and new covenant. Of course there is discontinuity, just not as much as he would argue. One of the continuities is that children received the sign of the old covenant, and they should receive the sign of the new covenant.
Regardless of what your view of baptism is, this will leave you more well informed on the subject.
Ferguson does a great job explaining covenant theology which is at the heart of why we baptize infants, not because they are regenerated by it, nor is there a guarantee that they will come to faith, but because the covenantal promise to Abraham and in the new testament (Acts 2:39)that the "promise is for you and for your children". The children of believers are in the covenant, and baptism is a sign of the covenant, and if they fail to come to faith, they are subject to the curses of the covenant.
Ware explains the baptist position well, but has to work hard to explain why "household" didn't include infants in the new testament examples, and to show a discontinuity of the old and new covenant. Of course there is discontinuity, just not as much as he would argue. One of the continuities is that children received the sign of the old covenant, and they should receive the sign of the new covenant.
Regardless of what your view of baptism is, this will leave you more well informed on the subject.
December 27, 2014
This is a great book detailing the three different views of baptism. Each author was given an opportunity to present its position, the other two authors were given a chance to respond, and then the original author was given a chance to wrap it up for each of the three sections of the book. This caused the topic to be discussed very thoroughly, although towards the end of it, it almost felt like it was dealt with too thoroughly, bordering on repetition. Ferguson's defense of infant baptism was excellent. Ware's defense of credobaptism (though from a more Reformed position on it than most might have) was also a good presentation, although I wasn't convinced of everything. Lane's "both" view, while it had some interesting points (his argument about "convert's baptism" was interesting and new), ultimately seemed to be much more based off of very sparse historical data than of biblical exegesis, and while it was interesting, I didn't find it very convincing. Ferguson's and Ware's dialogue, however, was quite good. Overall, this was a great book detailing the arguments on each side, and I was impressed with the quality of both Ferguson and Ware's arguments.
3.5-4 stars. (Very Good)
3.5-4 stars. (Very Good)
February 22, 2024
I really appreciated the format of this book. In my own journey, the different views of baptism (or explanations of them) frequently seem convoluted and not-distinct in their foundational arguments. Distinguishing exactly where the views divert can be tedious. Being able to read something where the opposing views respond directly to the presenting view, without unpacking their own views, is really helpful.
The baptist and presbyterian views are the most compelling, as they start with a premise that the Bible is clear on the subject. Lane, however, does not affirm that premise, and therefore concludes that dual (or multi) practice is the intended apostolic doctrine. I found this view wanting.
Last item of note is that Ferguson uses far, far to many Latin (I think) terms in his general language, and makes it difficult for a simpleton like me to understand what he's saying without considerable effort. But that's just a preference.
The baptist and presbyterian views are the most compelling, as they start with a premise that the Bible is clear on the subject. Lane, however, does not affirm that premise, and therefore concludes that dual (or multi) practice is the intended apostolic doctrine. I found this view wanting.
Last item of note is that Ferguson uses far, far to many Latin (I think) terms in his general language, and makes it difficult for a simpleton like me to understand what he's saying without considerable effort. But that's just a preference.
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November 7, 2025Dr. Ferguson did an outstanding job arguing for infant baptism. Dr. Ware, on the other hand, was very uncharitable.
It would have been far more interesting reading through the arguments of Rome or the Eastern Orthodox than Dr. Lane’s dual-practice view.
It would have been far more interesting reading through the arguments of Rome or the Eastern Orthodox than Dr. Lane’s dual-practice view.
June 20, 2025
Not a very enjoyable read, but an informative one. The historical analysis was the most interesting part for me.
November 8, 2021
Ten times better than the Zondervan Four Views book on baptism. Dr. Sinclair Ferguson does amazing job in defense of infant baptism.
May 28, 2020
If you're wanting to understand more about the differences between credobaptism and paedobaptism, this book might be helpful. The authors articulate alternate positions for credo and paedo baptism, and I found that the question of what the “seals” of circumcision and of baptism represent is the crucial linchpin in determining the function of baptism.
April 28, 2015
This is, by far, the best three views book I've read. Most lose you in the minutiae as they parse the different uses and English glosses of abstract Hebrew nouns. This one is very accessible and the authors are winsome and engaging. Very much deserving of the five stars I gave it.
March 15, 2016
This was most definitely an informative book, yet all the information in the world doesn't make up for the lack of humility and Christian love from authors as they debated this issue.
February 13, 2016
Not bad. Be warned: everyone who argues for their point thinks they're right.
What in the world was that last guy talking about?
What in the world was that last guy talking about?
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December 20, 2019This book will give you three views on Baptism.
November 18, 2019
This is an exceptionally engaging, accessible and theologically rich title that is the best in its class. You'd want to compare it against the Zondervan Counterpoints title Understanding Four Views on Baptism (edited by James Armstrong), as it is not necessary to purchase both. See my review on the latter title for a comparison on why this IVP Spectrum Multiview title is a far superior choice in almost every way - https://www.goodreads.com/review/show....
When comparing the respective chapters on the credobaptist view (between Thomas Nettles and Bruce Ware) and on the paedobaptist view (between Richard Pratt Jr. and Sinclair Ferguson), it is obvious how the clarity and accessibility of the IVP Spectrum Multiview contributors clearly outshine that of the Zondervan Counterpoints. This IVP Spectrum Multiview title also provides each contributor to provide a concluding response to the response chapters of the other contributors, which is helpful in closing the loop and providing clearer interaction than the Zondervan Counterpoints book (which does not provide a concluding response to the rebuttal sections).
The only aspect that this title pales in comparison to the Zondervan is its introduction, which is written by Daniel Reid, the IVP editor. It is truly a pity that David Wright passed away before he could leave us with an inspirational introduction, but I guess we should be thankful that he managed to finish the marvellous editorial work in this delightful and informative labour of love. I would recommend borrowing the Zondervan Counterpoints title from a friend or library to read its glorious introductory chapter - that provides a helpful, sombre call for humility, love and unity even when we approach other Christians who hold differing views on baptism. If ever a revised edition is to be released, it would be great if a theologian could provide the introduction to this otherwise wonderful gem of a book.
I heartily recommend this title for novice readers who seek an introduction on the various theological positions on the topic of baptism, as well as seminary students and pastors who are examining the multiple views on a deeper level.
When comparing the respective chapters on the credobaptist view (between Thomas Nettles and Bruce Ware) and on the paedobaptist view (between Richard Pratt Jr. and Sinclair Ferguson), it is obvious how the clarity and accessibility of the IVP Spectrum Multiview contributors clearly outshine that of the Zondervan Counterpoints. This IVP Spectrum Multiview title also provides each contributor to provide a concluding response to the response chapters of the other contributors, which is helpful in closing the loop and providing clearer interaction than the Zondervan Counterpoints book (which does not provide a concluding response to the rebuttal sections).
The only aspect that this title pales in comparison to the Zondervan is its introduction, which is written by Daniel Reid, the IVP editor. It is truly a pity that David Wright passed away before he could leave us with an inspirational introduction, but I guess we should be thankful that he managed to finish the marvellous editorial work in this delightful and informative labour of love. I would recommend borrowing the Zondervan Counterpoints title from a friend or library to read its glorious introductory chapter - that provides a helpful, sombre call for humility, love and unity even when we approach other Christians who hold differing views on baptism. If ever a revised edition is to be released, it would be great if a theologian could provide the introduction to this otherwise wonderful gem of a book.
I heartily recommend this title for novice readers who seek an introduction on the various theological positions on the topic of baptism, as well as seminary students and pastors who are examining the multiple views on a deeper level.
May 30, 2023
Great book on the 3 views of baptism (in the evangelical circle. The authors do not believe that baptism leads to regeneration). The book is structured like "baptism on trial" where each author presents his case in "direct examination", has the case "cross-examined" by the other two, then the author presents his closing argument. I wish the authors have "rebuttals."
Ware is the proponent of credobaptism. His case for credobaptism leaves a lot of "holes" and I personally find that he endeavors to "disprove" the opposing view rather than proving his own view. He is operating on the premise of (as he acknowledges) the discontinuity of the OT and NT covenants. He's also arguing that the lack of evidence in support of paedobaptism means a case AGAINST paedobaptism. I find that he is EXCELLENT on cross-examinations and closing argument.
Ferguson is the proponent of paedobaptism. His "direct examination" is EXCELLENT as he addresses the historical, biblical, theological aspects thoroughly. He is operating on the premise that there is great continuity between the OT and NT covenants. He is arguing that the lack of evidence in support of paedobaptism DOES NOT negate the validity of infant baptism. However, when other 2 authors respond to his case, I think he merely restates his points rather than directly addressing and disproving the arguments.
Last is Lane who is the proponent of dual-practice. I was excited to read his perspective but found Lane’s case to be based on the premise that the Bible does not specify one practice as correct and hence we should all hold hands and be united as one(?!). The other two authors (rightly) criticize his premise and his arguments, specifically where he claims that since there were records of both paedo and credo baptist churches, we should have a credopaedobaptist church. His case, cross-examinations, and closing argument lack Biblical references(which were the focus and strength of Ware and Ferguson).
Regardless of your view on baptism, you should definitely read this book! I love that the authors most often use the same Bible passages to prove their points, hence you can see how they interpret the Bible differently.
Ware is the proponent of credobaptism. His case for credobaptism leaves a lot of "holes" and I personally find that he endeavors to "disprove" the opposing view rather than proving his own view. He is operating on the premise of (as he acknowledges) the discontinuity of the OT and NT covenants. He's also arguing that the lack of evidence in support of paedobaptism means a case AGAINST paedobaptism. I find that he is EXCELLENT on cross-examinations and closing argument.
Ferguson is the proponent of paedobaptism. His "direct examination" is EXCELLENT as he addresses the historical, biblical, theological aspects thoroughly. He is operating on the premise that there is great continuity between the OT and NT covenants. He is arguing that the lack of evidence in support of paedobaptism DOES NOT negate the validity of infant baptism. However, when other 2 authors respond to his case, I think he merely restates his points rather than directly addressing and disproving the arguments.
Last is Lane who is the proponent of dual-practice. I was excited to read his perspective but found Lane’s case to be based on the premise that the Bible does not specify one practice as correct and hence we should all hold hands and be united as one(?!). The other two authors (rightly) criticize his premise and his arguments, specifically where he claims that since there were records of both paedo and credo baptist churches, we should have a credopaedobaptist church. His case, cross-examinations, and closing argument lack Biblical references(which were the focus and strength of Ware and Ferguson).
Regardless of your view on baptism, you should definitely read this book! I love that the authors most often use the same Bible passages to prove their points, hence you can see how they interpret the Bible differently.
November 23, 2023
"Baptism: Three Views" presents a thought-provoking and comprehensive exploration of the diverse perspectives on baptism, skillfully curated by David F. Wright, Bruce A. Ware, Sinclair B. Ferguson, and Anthony N. S. Lane. This collaborative work delves into the heart of theological differences, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of baptism from distinct vantage points.
Wright, Ware, Ferguson, and Lane bring their unique expertise to the table, creating a dialogue that is both illuminating and respectful. The book engages with the historical, biblical, and theological aspects of baptism, offering readers a rich tapestry of insights that encourages thoughtful reflection.
One of the strengths of this book is its ability to present complex theological concepts in a digestible manner. Each contributor articulates their views with clarity, making the content accessible to both scholars and those new to theological discourse. The diversity of perspectives adds depth to the discussion, enriching the reader's understanding of baptism's significance within the Christian tradition.
The collaborative nature of "Baptism: Three Views" fosters a spirit of intellectual openness and encourages readers to engage with differing theological positions. The contributors engage not only with each other's perspectives but also with the broader historical and biblical context, providing readers with a well-rounded view of the subject matter.
In summary, "Baptism: Three Views" stands as a valuable resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive exploration of baptism within the context of Christian theology. Whether you are a student, pastor, or curious reader, this book offers a balanced and informed discussion that deepens understanding and promotes respectful dialogue within the broader Christian community.
Wright, Ware, Ferguson, and Lane bring their unique expertise to the table, creating a dialogue that is both illuminating and respectful. The book engages with the historical, biblical, and theological aspects of baptism, offering readers a rich tapestry of insights that encourages thoughtful reflection.
One of the strengths of this book is its ability to present complex theological concepts in a digestible manner. Each contributor articulates their views with clarity, making the content accessible to both scholars and those new to theological discourse. The diversity of perspectives adds depth to the discussion, enriching the reader's understanding of baptism's significance within the Christian tradition.
The collaborative nature of "Baptism: Three Views" fosters a spirit of intellectual openness and encourages readers to engage with differing theological positions. The contributors engage not only with each other's perspectives but also with the broader historical and biblical context, providing readers with a well-rounded view of the subject matter.
In summary, "Baptism: Three Views" stands as a valuable resource for anyone seeking a comprehensive exploration of baptism within the context of Christian theology. Whether you are a student, pastor, or curious reader, this book offers a balanced and informed discussion that deepens understanding and promotes respectful dialogue within the broader Christian community.
October 12, 2024
I came into this book as a paedobaptist and left still one, so I guess this book didn't change my mind on much, but it was good to read through some of the different arguments. One of the interesting insights for me was a bit more clarity on understanding where the fundamental disagreement between paedo and credo baptists is. Baptism has in it both an objective (God's promises) and a subjective (our response) sides. It seems the credo-baptists see the dominant symbolism that baptism represents being on the subjective side, while paedo baptist would see the dominant symbolism as pointing to the objective side.
Since I come at baptism from the starting point of seeing it primarily as a sign of the objective reality of God's promises to us it is unsurprising that I found the paedo arguments more convincing, although I did think that some of Ferguson's arguments could have been made with a bit less technical language to make them more accessible and clear.
I was a bit disappointed in the "either one" argument as it mostly focused on the historical argument and didn't take the reader into a lot of bible driven arguments. I think there are some good arguments that could be made for this view, but I didn't find them in this book.
Since I come at baptism from the starting point of seeing it primarily as a sign of the objective reality of God's promises to us it is unsurprising that I found the paedo arguments more convincing, although I did think that some of Ferguson's arguments could have been made with a bit less technical language to make them more accessible and clear.
I was a bit disappointed in the "either one" argument as it mostly focused on the historical argument and didn't take the reader into a lot of bible driven arguments. I think there are some good arguments that could be made for this view, but I didn't find them in this book.
May 8, 2022
Really good overview of the broad spectrum of views on baptism. I would say it is largely coming from an evangelical, dual practice viewpoint, given its structure and positioning of Lane’s essays. This doesn’t detract from the quality of argumentation from Ware and Ferguson, though.
Not sure it will convince you about what stance you take but will certainly provide you with three pretty strong arguments for each position.
Four stars because I don’t think it fully encompasses the nuances of these three views or the views of other traditions beyond evangelicalism. This would have really added to the quality of the debate. Although catholic views are referenced, a fourth catholic and fifth Greek Orthodox view would have been within the scope of this book’s aims and enhanced the reader’s understanding. Granted, there would have been less interaction between all five unless the book would have run to a thousand pages or so.
Would recommend to all thinking this through but only as an introduction.
Not sure it will convince you about what stance you take but will certainly provide you with three pretty strong arguments for each position.
Four stars because I don’t think it fully encompasses the nuances of these three views or the views of other traditions beyond evangelicalism. This would have really added to the quality of the debate. Although catholic views are referenced, a fourth catholic and fifth Greek Orthodox view would have been within the scope of this book’s aims and enhanced the reader’s understanding. Granted, there would have been less interaction between all five unless the book would have run to a thousand pages or so.
Would recommend to all thinking this through but only as an introduction.
December 7, 2023
I was not overly impressed with the argumentation of Bruce Ware, but I do think he came out on top in the end. Ferguson is a competent and careful theologian, and his essay was one of the better presentations in favor of infant baptism that I have read.
That being said, I don’t think he established his position because (as is almost universally the case in paedobaptist literature) Ferguson assumes a Westminsterian framework of the covenants without any justification. He simply assumes the “one covenant/multiple administrations” framework and argues from there. And, if I agreed with that framework, then Ferguson’s essay would’ve been rather persuasive. I wish that in these debates pedobaptists would actually attempt to justify their covenant theology! I think much more fruitful debate would ensue.
The position of Anthony Lane was silly. I don’t have much more to say about it than that-ha.
That being said, I don’t think he established his position because (as is almost universally the case in paedobaptist literature) Ferguson assumes a Westminsterian framework of the covenants without any justification. He simply assumes the “one covenant/multiple administrations” framework and argues from there. And, if I agreed with that framework, then Ferguson’s essay would’ve been rather persuasive. I wish that in these debates pedobaptists would actually attempt to justify their covenant theology! I think much more fruitful debate would ensue.
The position of Anthony Lane was silly. I don’t have much more to say about it than that-ha.
February 10, 2017
Quite a useful book in explaining the three main views that evangelical churches have on baptism. Each view is presented, criticised and defended in turn. There is the view that baptism is just a sign of an inward change, a confession of salvation, and therefore o lay for those who understand their salvation. There's the idea that baptism is a continuation of the Jewish practise of circumcision and children of Christians should be baptised into the church when born, and then there's a combined view that both infant baptism and believers baptism should be practised. Some of the arguments are from scripture, some from what we know of history and some from theological ideas based on scripture. Makes for an interesting read, whichever practise you believe to be right.
November 23, 2017
This book gets 4 stars not because I agreed with all that was written in it but because it does what it claims to do: share three different views on baptism. The layout is great and the book is organized in a way to easily study each argument and read each authors feedback about each argument.
But as far as finding each argument compelling or even rooted in scripture would be a whole other rating (and the authors would say the same as they did in their critiques of each other, especially Ware and Ferguson’s critique of Lane). If I were to rate each author based upon how well they argued their view: Ware 4-5, Ferguson 3, Lane 1.
But as far as finding each argument compelling or even rooted in scripture would be a whole other rating (and the authors would say the same as they did in their critiques of each other, especially Ware and Ferguson’s critique of Lane). If I were to rate each author based upon how well they argued their view: Ware 4-5, Ferguson 3, Lane 1.
November 4, 2019
This book will give you a good-introduction into current debates around baptism in the evangelical world. Pretty useful, but overall the balance was slanted too far towards the issue of infant v credo baptism, and nowhere near enough attention towards a the meaning of baptism. I think it would have been much more helpful if each author gave us their own definition of baptism, established that carefully, then perhaps unpacked some of the implications like e.g. should infants be baptised? Ferguson actually nails this problem perfectly on pages 84&85.
Still, pretty handy and thought-provoking foray into this area of theology.
Still, pretty handy and thought-provoking foray into this area of theology.
September 14, 2025
I appreciate how the book allowed each position to argue their opinion, allow for argument, and then a final response. It was well written and organized. I have never studied this debate before and so most of the material was new to me making it a slow read as I tried to understand the various positions. I would like to re-read this book in the future as I know I missed some of the arguments. But for now, I finished the book questioning my original believers baptism stance and more convinced in the infant baptism position.
May 19, 2020
Excellent primer for baptism
This should be required reading for new Christian parents regardless of denomination. For too long, I looked the other way when baptism discussions came up, wanting to stay in an echo chamber. This book presents three views in a readable, thorough format.
This should be required reading for new Christian parents regardless of denomination. For too long, I looked the other way when baptism discussions came up, wanting to stay in an echo chamber. This book presents three views in a readable, thorough format.
May 13, 2021
I think I have more questions than answers, but that's not because of the way this book is written - more so my intellectual limitations :) this book keeps you engaged with the format of having each author's rebuttal serve to answer your questions along the way.
July 12, 2024
I feel strongly that this would have been a much better book had all of the space given to Professor Lane been instead given to Ferguson and Ware (to continue their coherent biblical arguments). In other words, I think the book would’ve been better had it been titled “Baptism: Two Views” 😁
June 25, 2025
An inciteful read. I haven’t changed my view but all contributors do a good job at arguing their points in an informative way. Naturally the two far positions are the most aggressive. I sympathise with Lanes middle view, he manages to convey this with good humour which helps.
March 19, 2018
This is a good discussion by three erudite theologians. It helped me to better understand the meaning of baptism and its practice in different protestant traditions.
May 31, 2019
A pretty good overview on the baptism controversy. Ferguson gives a good defense for our viewpoint.
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