​Dr. Iver Olson gave a series of lectures in 1951 on the subject, “Baptism and the Spiritual Life.” From those lectures, we have this little book of the same title. Do not let the length of the book (86 pages) deceive you; it is a helpful study of pertinent biblical texts regarding Baptism.

Olson sets forth that Baptism is a means of grace. The Word of God is the primary means of grace. The Word of God then makes Baptism into a means of grace, means by which God conveys His forgiveness to sinful man.

In chapter 2, Olson moves to a discussion of how to interpret the Scriptures. He discusses five interpretative principles of which all Christians can and should agree. This is an especially important chapter as most of the book addresses Bible passages that deal with Baptism.

In the next chapter, Olson establishes the fact that all are sinners. All mankind including children are sinners by nature and deserve God’s wrath. Both young and old are in need of salvation and the mercy of God in Christ.

Chapter 4 is a highlight in this little book. Using the solid biblical interpretation principles discussed earlier in the book, Olson studies eleven Bible passages regarding Baptism. He concludes by setting forth the value of Baptism. Baptism makes one a disciple of Christ; it is an agent of regeneration; it leads to the forgiveness of sins; it washes and cleanses; it unites with Christ and His death, burial, and resurrection; and it saves.

Chapter 5 is another highlight of the book. Olson argues from Bible passages the validity of infant baptism. He sets forth the necessity and reasons for such a practice.

In chapter 6, Olson discusses the forms of Baptism: immersion, sprinkling, and affusion. He focuses much of his attention on the argument against immersion and for affusion. If there is one criticism, it is that I would have liked a discussion about sprinkling and pertinent Bible passages, such as Isaiah 52:15, Ezekiel 36:25, and Hebrews 10:22.

Olson concludes the book with a helpful discussion on the spiritual life after Baptism. He encourages the telling of Bible stories to children, attendance in Sunday school and Bible study, participation in the congregation’s Confirmation program, Bible camps, and revival meetings. All of these things should have as a primary goal to assure the baptized Christian of salvation in Christ.

I highly recommend this little book. The value of the book lies in Olson’s careful and clear thinking and interpretation of Bible passages about Baptism. He provides a valuable resource to laity and pastors alike.

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