Baptist Distinctives

The basic Baptist beliefs can be summarized in a simple acronym that utilizes our namesake.

B - Belief in the Bible 

We believe that the following are true of God's Word:

• Inspired
• Infallible
• Inerrant

A - Autonomy of the Church

We believe the church is to be self-governing and not under some organizational headquarters.

P - Priesthood of the Believer (1 Peter 2:5, 9)

We believe each individual has the right to:                                                                  

• Decide their soul's destiny.
• Offer their life to God as a living sacrifice.
• Offer their substance in sacrifice to God.
• Offer a gift of praise.

T - Transformed Membership (Acts 2:40-42)

We believe salvation is the first requirement for church membership.

I - Immersed Membership (Acts 2:41)

We believe that baptism by immersion is the second requirement of membership.

S - Separation from the World (Romans 12:1-2)

We believe there should be a difference between the world and the life of a Christian.

T - Two Ordinances and Two Offices

We believe the two ordinances that take place within the church are the following:

• Ordinance #1: Baptism
• Ordinance #2: Communion

We also believe that God has established two offices within the church. They are as follows:

• Office #1: Pastor
• Office #2: Deacon

It is also important to mention that we believe each member has the following position and duty within the Baptist church:

• Each member is valuable (1 Corinthians 12:12-26).
• Each member has been placed within the local church by God.
• Each member should use their spiritual gifts to help their local church.
• Each member should love others (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

In conclusion, allow us to paraphrase and slightly change a quote made famous by the late John F. Kennedy, "Ask not what your church can do for you, ask what you can do for your church."

How are you allowing God to work through you in your local Baptist church?