Lecture Notes on Baptismal Regeneration

Introduction

• Discussion on baptismal regeneration in the context of Christian theology.
• Part of a series of conversations; this is the second installation.
• Participants: Dr. Gavin Ortlund and Dr. Jordan B Cooper.
• Importance of defining terms to avoid miscommunication.
• Focus on how baptismal regeneration is viewed across different traditions.

Definitions

Baptismal Regeneration

• Different traditions view it differently.
• Term 'regeneration' is rare in the Bible but is used in the context of baptism in Titus.
• Linked to the washing of regeneration.

Dr. Ortlund's Perspective

• Baptism is a means of grace but not the sole means of regeneration.
• Describes baptism as an "ordinary means" rather than absolutely necessary.

Dr. Cooper's Perspective

• Baptism saves through the word of God, not as a human work or magical act.
• Emphasizes participation in Christ’s baptism.

Does Baptism Save?

• Both agree baptism saves but with nuanced interpretations.
• Dr. Ortlund: Baptism is representative of salvation.
  • Uses metaphors: coronation, graduation, wedding ring.
• Dr. Cooper: Affirms baptism saves, not by human work but through God's means.

Typology and Baptism

Old Testament Typology

• Flood of Noah:

  • Water as a form of judgment and salvation.
  • Saves Noah’s family just as baptism saves Christians.

• Crossing of the Red Sea:

  • Israelites saved through water; symbolic of spiritual salvation in baptism.

• Challenge:

  • Dr. Ortlund questions how these typologies directly result in baptismal regeneration.

New Testament Context

1 Peter 3:21

• Baptism now saves you.
• Dr. Cooper: Salvation not just symbolic but real through baptism.
• Dr. Ortlund: Questions literality and suggests baptism is an appeal to God rather than the mechanism itself.

Acts 10 and Cornelius

• Cornelius receives the Spirit before baptism.
• Raises questions about regeneration timing.
• Dr. Ortlund: Examples show baptism and Spirit reception are not always simultaneous.
• Dr. Cooper: Acknowledges the uniqueness of Acts and its redemptive historical context.

Conclusion

• Discussion highlights different interpretations of scriptural passages relating to baptism.
• Emphasizes the role of baptism in salvation and its relationship with faith and regeneration.
• Ongoing theological debate with interpretations grounded in scripture and tradition.