When we rebaptize someone, it becomes a symbol of our division among us.An obvious question that emerges is, well, what about believer’s baptism, infant baptism? Well, the fact is that if you look at the history and the record that we do have, the ancient church practiced both. There's just no question about that. A great illustration from the fourth century would be the experience of two of the wonderful church fathers: Saint John Chrysostom in the East and Saint Augustine in the West, both of whom were raised by very godly, Christian mothers who chose not to baptize those boys as their little ones, but upon profession of faith, they receive baptism. Yet, both of these great men, when they became bishops, were strong advocates of infant baptism. The bottom line is both were acceptable. But the whole issue that was a big one for them is that you don't practice rebaptism. And I think one question a person could ask is, “What if a person would come to our church that was a Mormon? Would you rebaptize them?” Well, of course you would because they did not receive Trinitarian baptism with water. Why is it, as Christians, as Protestants, that we treat our Christian brethren like we would a heretical cult by encouraging them to be baptized a second time? So the big question is: Are we just a bunch of marginally-connected Christian sects as Protestants, or are we genuinely a part of the one holy catholic and apostolic church? And if it's the latter, then we only practice one baptism.
Dennis E. Johnson, Professor Emeritus of Practical TheologyDr. Waters has written an accessible, sound, and pastoral introduction to the life and theology of the Apostle to the Gentiles. Careful exegesis and theological discernment yield concise but rich expositions of Paul's teaching on sin, salvation, the church, redemptive history, and the future. Each thematic treatment closes with consideration of its relevance to the church's life today, building bridges from Paul's proclamation of Christ and His redemptive achievement into the issues that Christians today confront. This brief study is an excellent way to get acquainted with the persecutor-turned-propagator of Christ's gospel, whom God's Spirit inspired to write more New Testament books than anyone else.
Andreas J. Köstenberger, Research ProfessorThe Life and Theology of Paul is a very useful introductory treatment of the major contours of Paul's theology. While conversant with contemporary scholarship, the author does an excellent job focusing on what is most essential and in distilling complex interpretive issues. Warmly recommended!
James Buchanan Harrison, Professor of New Testament InterpretationIf you are looking for a concise, clear, and faithful summary of Paul's theology, Guy Waters' work is the perfect fit. Waters faithfully exposits some of the main themes in Paul's thought and also includes practical lessons for believers and churches today. A very helpful resource for students, pastors, and those who are looking for a brief textbook on Paul's theology.