Baptist History, Heritage and Distinctives – Baptism – Spiritual Authority vs. Popular Practice – Part FOUR

Thomas E Kresal December 9, 2019

Baptist History, Heritage and Distinctives – Baptism – Spiritual Authority vs. Popular Practice – Part FOUR

Introduction from Pastor Mac Woody It may be a question to some as to why one would study the history of the Baptist. It is prudent for one to examine the faith which he may profess. With this profession, there needs to be a confirmation that it is indeed Biblical. However, this cannot be accomplished unless there is a historical and a Biblical examination. I have found in my personal life that the more I look into the doctrinal background that constituted the church that Jesus established during his earthly ministry, the more I am convinced that this doctrine is the same doctrine of the historical Baptist. Because of the promise that the Lord gave in regard to His church, that the gates of hell shall not prevail against it, we have assurance that it will endure through all ages.

In Ephesians 3:24-25 the scriptures states that God is to get glory by Jesus Christ through the church throughout all ages. It is not reasonable that the process by which God is to get glory would be cut off from the earth and then reappear as part of the Protestant reformation. Because of the promise of a continual existence of the church which we call the perpetuity, we must assume then that the doctrine that enables a church to be a church will be continually anchored in truth and handed down. Not only is there perpetuity of the church, there must also be succession of the church and its doctrine. The very thing that allows a church to remain a church is contained in obedience to the doctrine that is laid down by Christ and His apostles. If a church does not continue in these doctrines, it will become “apostate,” departing from the doctrine of the apostles. This brings us to the subject at hand, which is baptism.

(to be continued)

Thomas E. Kresal excerpts from: “Baptist Baptism – A Heritage by Scriptural Authority vs. The Corruption of Popular Practice” by Pastor Les Potter and Pastor Mac Woody, pg. 58-59

To purchase this book by request: Shiloh Baptist Church, 664 Dahlstrom Rd. Gwinn, MI 49841 send a check or money order for $10 and specify this book – “Baptist Baptism.”