Elmhurst Baptist Church - Leadership Workshop
General Baptist Information
Doctrine: That which we believe in.......
  • Authority of the Scriptures
  • Believer's Baptism, by Immersion (exclusion of Infant baptism)
  • Freedom of conscience; priesthood of believers
  • Autonomy of the local church; freedom of government
  • The separation of the Church and the State
  • The primary ordinance of the church are: communion and baptism
 
Baptist Polity: "Polity".... the functions of the church... church order... church organization, i.e., the way we order or arrange our resources to enable the church to exist and to do God's work.
Examples:
  • Criteria for church membership, church officers - number of officers, etc.
  • Inter-church relationships.
  • Manner of worship, witness, auxillary fellowships
 
Corporate Meeting: Relates to the financial resources, the budget, or structure of an "organization." This area of the church organization is governed by the Board of Trustees. Corporate Meetings include: Annual or Special-called meetings that are held at the church facility, and are required by the State of New York.
 
The Business Meeting: Relates to any business of the church, other than that involving money, or money management.  Examples include:
  • Church polity issues
  • Ecclesiastical or ecumenical matters
 
Distinguishing Characteristics in American Baptist Churches in the U.S.A:
  • Open communication to all who respond to Christ's call
  • Ecumenical commitment to those furthering God's will
  • Inclusive: Without regard to race, sex, color, or nationality
  • Leadership of women in all areas of ministry
 
Characteristics Common to Most Baptist Groups:
  • Soul Competency/Liberty of Conscience
  • Priesthood of All Believers
  • Scripture Authority in Faith & Practice (no creeds)
  • Regenerate Church Membership
  • Autonomy of the Local Congregation (democracy)
  • Ordinances are Symbols not Sacrament
  • Baptism is for Believers Only
  • Immersion is the fullest Symbol for Baptism
  • Separation of Church and State
  • Freedom of Government
  • Voluntary Association of Churches (non denominational)
  • Attach Importance to Missions, Evangelism & Christian Education
12 Rules for bringing out the best in people
Teamwork
Leadership is Enabling
Soul Freedom
Priesthood of All Believers
Congregational Autonomy
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