The Sign of the Gospel: Toward an Evangelical Doctrine of Infant Baptism after Karl Barth
Author(s): W. Travis McMaken (Author)
Publisher: Fortress Press
Publication Date: 1 Aug. 2013
Language: English
Print length: 352 pages
ISBN-10: 0800699998
ISBN-13: 9780800699994
Book Description
The theology of the sacraments is one of the most contested parts in Barths theology, none more so than the doctrine of baptism. Barths proposals on baptism have generated intense conversation and disagreement, not only on its application to Protestant and ecumenical theology but even on its own consistency with Barths larger dogmatic project. McMaken takes up this controversial question, sets it in its proper context within the history of doctrine and Barths systematic work, and argues for a constructive reclamation of infant baptism that accords with Barths overarching theological concerns and insights, notably from Barths mature theological commitments. Pivotally, this volume claims that a reorientation of the doctrine of baptism opens up a new perspective on the practice of infant baptism on the basis of Barths theology; this new perspective, as well, holds the potential for wide, ecumenical application as a form of the proclamation of the gospel and a vital dimension of the churchs missional vocation. A commanding volume for scholars and students in systematic theology, ecumenical studies, and sacramental theology.
Editorial Reviews
Review
The rejection by the ‘mature’ Barth of infant baptism has long been problematic for paedo-baptists, raising the question of whether there is a contradiction with and departure from his earlier theological position. In this thorough and careful study, Travis McMaken demonstrates that Barth’s view is a quite logical development from the earlier theology of election, but not the only logical development. This work is an important contribution to both Barth studies and the theology of baptism. –Bryan D Spinks, Yale Divinity School
This wide-ranging, insightful, and sophisticated work is, without doubt, a signal contribution to Barth studies: a fascinating explication of the Church Dogmatics, and related texts, that will be gratefully received. Yet it is also a valuable intervention into contemporary discussions, and will be of especial interest to those who wish to think well and to think better about baptism. –Paul Dafydd Jones, University of Virginia
Exhibiting lucid analysis and deep insight, The Sign of the Gospel offers an impressive exploration of the doctrine of baptism in the theology of Karl Barth. McMaken traces the historic and scriptural backdrop to Barth’s position, analyses his mature rejection of infant baptism, and constructs one way of accepting infant baptism within Barth’s framework. The result is a welcome and significant contribution to Barth studies in particular and sacramental theology in general. –Paul Nimmo, University of Edinburgh
About the Author
W. Travis McMaken is associate professor of religion and assistant dean of multidisciplinary humanities at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri. He is the author of The Sign of the Gospel: Toward an Evangelical Doctrine of Infant Baptism after Karl Barth (Fortress Press, 2013) and coeditor of Karl Barth in Conversation (2014).
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