James W. Dale

Biography: James Wilkinson Dale (1812-1881) received a BA from the University of Pennsylvania in 1831; he later received an MA and MD, also from the University of Pennsylvania. He studied theology at Andover and Princeton. Dale was a pastor and missionary; he retired in 1876, when he devoted himself to studying literature. His sermons were often published in newspapers. Dale is best known for his writings on baptism, which began as a private study. He carefully examined the Scriptures and early church writings to determine their teachings regarding baptism; the results of this study formed the foundation for several volumes on baptism. Dale authored Classic Baptism (Draper & Halliday, 1876; reprinted by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co. and Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers, 1989), Judaic Baptism (Presbyterian Board of Publication and Sabbath-School Work, 1869; reprinted by Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers, P&R Publishing, and Loewe Belfort Projects, 1991), Johannic Baptism (Presbyterian Board of Publication and Sabbath-School Work, 1898; reprinted by Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers, P&R Publishing, and Loewe Belfort Projects, 1993), and Christic and Patristic Baptism (Philadelphia Presbyterian Board of Publication, 1974; reprinted by Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers, P&R Publishing, and Loewe Belfort Projects, 1995).