The Waters That Divide [Session 1] with Dr. Stephen Wellum

The speaker expresses gratitude for being present and introduces the topic of baptism, referencing the Great Commission from Matthew 28, which emphasizes the importance of baptism as a command from Jesus. He highlights that baptism signifies entry into the New Covenant and the church, serving as a public declaration of faith in Christ.

The speaker discusses the significance of baptism, noting that it is an initiatory rite that marks a believer's transition from being in Adam to being in Christ. He emphasizes that the New Testament does not recognize any Christian who has not been baptized, indicating the importance of baptism in the life of the church.

The speaker addresses the historical disagreements surrounding baptism, including its meaning, proper subjects, and modes of administration. He notes that the early church practiced believer's baptism by immersion, while infant baptism arose later, leading to ongoing debates within Christianity.

The speaker argues that differing views on baptism reflect broader theological commitments, particularly regarding the relationship between the covenants and the nature of the church. He emphasizes that baptism is a test case for understanding one's overall theology and hermeneutics.

The speaker outlines the covenantal argument for infant baptism, distinguishing it from other views, such as those held by Roman Catholics and Lutherans. He emphasizes that the covenantal view incorporates believers and their children into the church, based on the continuity of God's covenantal promises throughout Scripture.

The speaker explains the concept of covenant theology, which organizes Scripture around covenants, particularly the Covenant of Grace. He discusses the significance of the Covenant of Grace in relation to the Abrahamic, Mosaic, and New Covenants, emphasizing the unity and continuity of God's redemptive plan.

The speaker elaborates on the essential unity of the Covenant of Grace, arguing that all biblical covenants are part of one overarching plan of salvation. He highlights the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, particularly regarding the people of God and the signs of the covenant.

The speaker discusses the nature of the church, emphasizing the mixed community of believers and unbelievers within both Israel and the church. He argues that this mixed nature supports the practice of infant baptism, as children are included in the visible covenant community.

The speaker addresses the relationship between circumcision and baptism, arguing that both serve as signs of entrance into the covenant community. He emphasizes that while the signs are administratively different, they signify the same spiritual realities and the need for faith in Christ.

The speaker concludes by reiterating the covenantal argument for infant baptism, emphasizing the continuity of God's promises and the inclusion of children in the covenant community. He acknowledges the need for further examination of specific biblical texts to support this argument.