Baptism: Its Purpose, Practice and Power

by Michael P. Green

Publisher:

Paternoster

, 1987

Overview

Baptism: It’s Purpose, Practice and Power is a classic introduction to the practice and theology of baptism from a well known evangelical Anglican writer. Michael Green provides a bold, clear explanation of the different approaches, examining clear biblical evidence and teaching. Common ground between the churches is emphasized, along with the insistence that baptism is no substitute for saving faith. Even so, the author’s conviction of the validity and benefits of infant baptism, in appropriate circumstances, is presented with energy and thoroughness. This accessible account will help many to a deeper understanding of the real significance of baptism.

Contents

Top Highlights

“All of this underlines how important baptism is. It cannot be thought of as an optional extra, which is how some modern Christians seem to treat it; nor can it be repudiated altogether, as the Quakers and Salvation Army do. To do this is not merely to disobey Christ, but to pin all on faith, to give way to excessive subjectiveness, and to neglect the entering into the solid, objective event of salvation history which baptism denotes.” (Page 32)

“Baptism is obviously the mark of initiation into the New Covenant, just as circumcision was into the Old.” (Page 13)

“Baptism, then, corresponds to circumcision under the Old Covenant. It is a mark of the covenant or agreement between God’s grace and our response. Not just of his grace, nor just of our response. It is the seal both on his initiative and our response.” (Page 13)

“First, note the background. It is one of judgment and grace” (Page 14)

“First, his baptism meant an anointing by the Holy Spirit” (Page 24)

Praise for the Print Edition

Michael Green’s book on Baptism is a classic. With his usual clear, punchy style and his profound knowledge of the biblical and historical background, he is an excellent guide to this vital topic for the church's life and health.

—Graham Tomlin, Principal of the St. Paul’s Theological Centre, Holy Trinity Brompton, London

Product Details

• Title: Baptism: Its Purpose, Practice and Power
• Author: Michael Green
• Publisher: Paternoster Press
• Publication Date: 1987
• Pages: 120

About Michael P. Green

E. Michael Green is chaplain for the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics, where he also teaches the evangelism module. He formerly served as senior research fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University, England, and as adviser in evangelism to the archbishops of Canterbury and York. As a pastor, evangelist, author and lecturer, he has taught and preached the New Testament for many years.