The Baptist denomination began with the reformation. John Smyth and others began to separate from the church in England in 1608 (“Baptist Denomination” http://christianity. about.com/). The founding of the first Baptist church was in 1609. A group of exiled British rebels escaped England and formed a Christian group. Some of the traditions that were started way back with the rebels continue today in the modern Baptist churches. The name ‘Baptist’ started as a nickname because of their commitment to baptising believers. The denomination has built a reputation because of some of their practises but ultimately, the Baptists are just trying to spread the message of Jesus’ love (“Understanding Congregational Government” http://www.baptist.org.au/).
Baptists believe in two ordinances, one being baptism and the other The Lord’s Supper. Baptists believe that baptism is not necessary for salvation but it is a symbol of salvation. Believers get baptised by immersion in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The Lord’s Supper (communion) is also a symbolic gesture. Baptists believe that communion is sacred and should not be taken carelessly. Baptists also believe that those people who are truly saved cannot lose their salvation. By God’s grace and power their salvation is maintained. Baptists believe that a believer can approach God’s throne for himself through the mediation of Jesus Christ. There is no need for someone to tell believers how to live (“What We Believe...” http://www.trinityyukon.com/).
The Baptists follow the rules set up in the Bible very closely, in particular, the New Testament. However, some people are questioning how the denomination is governed. Currently, the Baptist churches are independent. They make their own rules and decisions to help the church the most. Although the churches are individual, the churches here in Australia follow a few common practices. The Baptist community believe that:
The Scriptures are the supreme authority for faith and practice. Congregational polity and the autonomy of the local church. The baptism of believers by immersion. Church membership for the regenerate. The freedom of conscience, soul liberty and the right of private interpretation. (“Understanding Congregational Government” http://www.baptist.org.au/)They also believe in the priesthood of all believers. This is based from 1 Peter 2 verse 9, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God...” (“1 Peter 2:9” http://www.biblegateway.com/) The system of governance in place in the Baptist churches is under pressure. It may have been right for the church when it first began but some people argue that the long tradition should be changed to fit modern times.
The liturgy of the Baptist church is slightly different for each church because of the individual governance. However, the church services do have some common factors. The Baptist churches have a mandatory alter call after the sermon. The pastor will either congratulate those who have accepted his call or convict those who did not accept. This is the climax of the service. The communion at a Baptist church generally consists of bread and juice handed out to the congregation. The pastor will share about the significance of communion, and then it is taken. The tithes are normally collected before the sermon but in some churches it happens after. This is because the church feels that the people will respond more after they have heard the message. Basically, the liturgy of the Baptist churches is very loose and flexible (“Liturgy: Praxis & Pistis ” http://brotherquotidian.blog spot.com/).
The music played at the Baptist churches is very traditional. At Birkdale Baptist Church, the music was quiet with only a few instruments used. The main highlight was the voices of four singers. The songs played were songs that I had sung around five years ago. This was very different to what I was used to, coming from Hillsong. Baptists believe that worship is meant to prepare you for the sermon that will follow (“Baptists Music” http://www.allaboutbaptist s.com/). The quietness and traditional type of music was very refreshing and it made it easier to really appreciate God’s love.
Overall, Birkdale Baptist Church is a quiet little church that provided an interesting experience that I thoroughly enjoyed.
