Dimensions of Baptism Biblical and Theological Studies

KEARSLEY Baptism Then and Now 243

chal' theology.^19 Tertullian focuses on the disciplina, the rigour of the

Christian life, Moltmann on freedom. Tertullian is pre-modern, Moltmann

a dialogue partner of modernity. There should be little in common between

the two theologians. The truth, however, seems to be that they both incul-

turate Christian thinking into their social setting with a similar passion for

an authentic Christianity. This surprising outcome carries a bonus for the

ecumenical quest on baptism. If the comparison between Tertullian and

Moltmann exposes a shared baptismal understanding, firm enough to

withstand the centuries, we may be looking at pillars of baptismal belief,

essences (to change the metaphor), with significance for all. Such endur-

ing strength suggests an intangible rootedness in the whole Christian

psyche.

But is it the case? To explore that question one has to ask another. Does

Moltmann's agenda resemble Tertullian's in any respects? We find that it

does.

Divine Rule and Ethics

In his most definitive handling of the sacraments, Moltmann defines

baptism as a call.^20 But a call to what? In his view, a call to freedom of

course. But, paradoxically, it is also a call to the 'rule' (!) of God in one's

personal life and a common conversion to that rule.^21 Granted, he is a far

cry from Tertullian's ascetic drive and rigour. But he is doing the same

kind of thing—calling the Church to a baptismal practice and outlook

which combats creeping nominalism and complacency. For Moltmann, the

Church's calling can only be realized as the Church 'ceases to be a non-

committal religious society and turns into a recognisable messianic fel-

lowship of service for the kingdom of God'.^22

So, despite his distaste for patriarchal and royal metaphors, Moltmann is

not without a doctrine of Christ's 'lordship'. But it is the lordship of the

crucified one, as in Tertullian at his best, and hence does not arise from

'Christendom' and 'Constantinianism'. But nor is Moltmann simply pan-

19. J. Moltmann, 'The Motherly Father: Is Trinitarian Patripassianism Replacing
    Theological Patriarchalism?', in J-B. Metz and E. Schilebeeckx (eds.), God as Father
    (Concilum, 43; Edinburgh: T. & T. Clark, 1989), pp. 51-56.


20. J. Moltmann, The Open Church: Invitation to a Messianic Lifestyle (London:
    SCM Press, 1978), p. 124.


21. J. Moltmann, The Church in the Power of the Spirit: A Contribution to Mes-
    sianic Theology (Lodon: SCM Press, 1978), p. 226.


22. Moltmann, Church in the Power of the Spirit, p. 242.