Review: Baptism: Three Views

Baptism: Three Views by David F. Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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.

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