What We Believe

Every Baptist Church is independent and autonomous so beliefs may vary, but the following are common Baptist beliefs:

The Lordship of Christ

We declare that Jesus is Lord. He is Lord over our individual lives, the life of each Church, and the life of the whole world.

The Authority of the Bible

We affirm that the Bible is the Word of God because its writers were inspired by God’s Spirit. As such, it has authority to guide both what we believe and how we live our lives.

Baptism for Believers

From the example of the New Testament, we recognise that baptism is for those who believe and are prepared to declare that Jesus is Lord. As a symbol of Jesus’ claim on our lives, baptism by immersion is practised, representing a desire to die to self and to live for Christ.

A Believers’ Church

We understand the Church to be a community of believers gathered in the name of Jesus Christ for worship, teaching, witness and service. There is no set Baptist liturgy. Each local Church and community is free to determine its own pattern, though prayer and praise, listening and reflecting on Scripture, and sharing Holy Communion will always be central.

The Priesthood of all Believers

We believe that everyone who attends a Baptist Church has a role to play and can use their God‑given skills and talents for the good of the Church and the community. These gifts include teaching, evangelism, social action, pastoral care, prayer, healing, taking part in worship, administration and hospitality.

Church Members and Church Meetings

When a person is baptised in a Baptist Church, they normally become a Church member. Church members are called to prayerfully discern God’s will for their shared life. Final authority does not rest with the ministers, deacons or any other local, national or international body, but with the members’ meeting together under God’s guidance. Church meetings make significant appointments, including ministers, and agree financial policy and mission.

Interdependence

Baptists believe that Churches should not live in isolation from one another but rather be inter‑dependent. Our Baptist Churches are linked regionally, nationally and internationally for support and fellowship.

Sharing the Faith

Baptists believe that each Christian has a duty to share their faith with others. We recognise that mission is not just evangelism, but also includes promoting justice, social welfare, healing, education and peace in the world.