Introduction

Abstract

This introduction explains the governing argument of the book and how each chapter contributes to that argument. It begins with the rationale for a sacramental understanding of conversion and the practical importance of obtaining forgiveness of sins through the sacrament of penance. It then describes Luther’s grappling with the tension between an instrumental understanding of baptism and one that requires some kind of faith from the recipient. This tension will harden after his death into a great divide between Lutheran and Reformed. The Reformed insistence on an inward baptism by the Holy Spirit will eventually result in evangelicalism.