WHAT MAKES US BAPTISTS
We believe that the strict, literal interpretation of the Bible makes us Baptists. The Baptist Distinctives are easy to remember using the acronym B.A.P.T.I.S.T.S. Many Christians believe some of these distinctives, but true Baptists believe them all. The Baptist distinctives are listed below:
Bible Is The Authority
The Bible is our sole authority for faith and practice. It is the final authority on all matters of faith, practice, and polity. The tradition of men, human opinion, false science, religious creeds, nor popular opinion override the plain teaching of God's Word. The Bible is inspired and preserved by God and carries His absolute authority. Baptists believe the Bible and strive to live according to its teaching. It is the Divine Revelation of God to man and is the complete and infallible guide to faith and life. (Psalm 12:6-7; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Peter 1:20-21)
Autonomy of the Local Church
Each local church is an independent body accountable to the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the Head of the church. Each church is autonomous, or self-governing, and contains all human authority for leadership within its congregation. No denomination, governmental body, or religious hierarchy may dictate the church's beliefs or practices. A Baptist church may choose to associate with other churches of like faith around mutual interests or ministry opportunities, but one church cannot exert authority over another. (Colossians 1:18; Matthew 18:15-20; Acts 15:22; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 19, 23)
Priesthood of the Believer
All born-again believers have the privilege of direct access to God. Jesus Christ is the mediator between God and man. We need no other human agent or spiritual mediator. As God's priests, we can study His Word, pray for our needs, intercede for others, offer worship, and serve in His work. Every child of God has equal access to their Heavenly Father. (1 Timothy 2:1-6; 1 Peter 2:5,9; Revelation 5:9-10)
Two Ordinances
The local church is mandated by God to practice two ordinances. 1. Baptism of believers by immersion in water symbolizes sincere faith in Christ's death, burial, and resurrection with the desire to walk in newness of life. 2. The Lord's Supper, or Communion, commemorates Christ's broken body and shed blood giving each believer an opportunity for self-examination and rededication. These are not sacraments to earn salvation, but privileges granted by grace. (Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 6:4; 1 Corinthians 11:23-32)
Individual Soul Liberty
Every individual, believer and unbeliever, possesses the God-given privilege of free will having the liberty to choose what to believe. No one should be forced to any belief against his or her will. God speaks to individuals through His Word and His Spirit. Every person is individually responsible to God and will be judged according to the beliefs and practices he or she freely chooses. Freedom of choice demands personal responsibility. (John 3:36; Romans 14:4-12; 2 Corinthians 4:2; Titus 1:9)
Saved Church Membership
Local church membership is restricted to individuals who give a believable testimony of personal faith in Christ and have publicly identified with Him in believer's baptism. Church membership is a necessary privilege for believers who follow Christ. Fellowship, guidance, and encouragement of the local church family are essential for believers to maintain an unwavering testimony and a meaningful life of service. (Acts 2:41-47; 1 Corinthians 12:12,18; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Hebrews 10:23-25)
Two Offices
Scripture mandates two offices for the local church: Pastor and Deacon. The Pastor leads, feeds, guides, and guards the church at the direction of Christ. The Bible terms “pastor,” “elder,” and “bishop” refer to different responsibilities for the same office. Deacons help the pastor care for the flock so he can give priority to prayer and the ministry of the Word. The Bible gives qualifications for each office. (1 Timothy 3:1-13; Acts 6:1-7; Philippians 1:1)
Separation of Church and State
God established both civil and local church governments. They have distinct responsibilities and operations. Neither should control the other. Believers in a free society should influence government toward righteousness, but should not make an unholy alliance for control, influence, or favors. No government should interfere with the local church's preaching, activities, and ministry. (Matthew 22:15-22; 28:19-20; Romans 13:1-7)