What Being Baptist Really Means

There are many kinds of Baptist churches, and differing beliefs, so what defines Third as Baptist?

Most Baptist beliefs and practices are ones held in common with other Christian denominations. But there are specific beliefs known as the "Baptist Distinctives."
Primary among them are these core beliefs embraced by Third Baptist Church:

Priesthood of the Believer

You do not need an intermediary in order to gain access to God; not a church, not a denomination, not a member of clergy. Actually, there is no substantial difference between clergy and laity; those in pulpits and those in pews stand before God on equal footing. As an individual believer you have direct access; you have a one-to-one relationship with God.

Autonomy of the Local Church

The ultimate authority in Baptist life is the local church. No denomination or other entity dictates to us who we should accept as a member or choose as a pastor, or where our money goes, or what congregational statements we adopt.

Separation of Church and State

The First Amendment to the Constitution says “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” Baptists believe in keeping a wall of separation between church and state; we believe government must not dictate values and beliefs to the church, and we believe the church—while it may proclaim beliefs that seek to influence public policy—must not attempt to use the power of government to force its beliefs on others. All this, because we answer to a higher calling than that of the state; we follow the ways taught by Jesus.

Third's Affiliations

In addition to the Baptist Distinctives, "being Baptist" may be evaluated by denominational affiliations. These are ours:

American Baptist Churches USA

Our affiliation with ABC-USA is an essential part of our global missionary outreach to a world in need. The 1.3-million members and approximately 5,000 congregations of American Baptist Churches USA share with more than 42 million Baptists around the world a common tradition begun in the early 17th century.

That tradition emphasizes the Lordship and atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, believers’ baptism, the competency of all believers to be in direct relationship with God and to interpret Scripture, the importance of the local church, assurance of freedom in worship and opinion, and the need to be Christ’s witnesses within society.

Cooperative Baptist Fellowship

Our CBF affiliation provides great value to our local, regional and international ministry efforts. The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship is a Christian network of individuals and churches working together to spread the hope of Christ. This diverse community includes partners all over the globe, and the fellowship supports a wide range of missions and ministries that give people meaningful opportunities to put their faith into action.