Author Description

In this study, Jim Petty and Miles Cotham have made a thorough analysis of the biblical passages concerning the purpose of baptism, particularly as it relates to holiness and forgiveness. The authors have looked beyond the traditional church dogmas to discover and restore the beauty and significance of the baptismal event. As the doctrine of baptism is wound and entwined through other doctrines taught in the New Testament, a tapestry of salvation emerges in which each doctrine is dependent on and complimentary to the others. Following a careful examination of the meaning of holiness, the authors have demonstrated its close affinity to baptism as seen in the practice of baptism by John the Baptist and Jesus, in the preaching of the early church, and in the writings of the New Testament letters. In the appendix, the study concludes with a selected list of quotations throughout the history of the church that includes various interpretations of the purpose of baptism.