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The Distinctive Convictions of Reformed Baptist Churches
Reformational (as expressed in five Latin phrases)
Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone) The Bible is the complete, closed and clear authority in all matters of faith.
Solus Christus (Christ Alone) Our confidence is in Jesus Christ alone for salvation.
Sola Gratia (Grace Alone) Grace secured redemption without reference to works.
Sola Fide (Faith Alone) We are declared righteous by God through faith alone.
Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone) The goal of creation and redemption is God’s praise.
We are saved by faith alone (as the only means of salvation) in Christ alone (as the only ground of salvation) by God’s grace alone (as the only cause of our salvation) revealed in Scripture alone (as the only authoritative rule for faith and practice) for God’s glory alone (as the chief end and ultimate goal of life).
Practical
Worship - The Bible clearly reveals how God is to be worshipped. (The Association of Reformed Baptist Churches has a great article on the Regulative Principle of Worship.)
Preaching - Primacy of preaching. Both exposition and application emphasized.
Instruction - Confessional. Publishing what we believe the Bible teaches.
Family - Parents are to instruct and discipline their children in the Lord.
Behavior - Maintaining a good conscience before God and man.
Theological
Unity of the Bible - Many parts yet one message.
Christ-centered Interpretation - Jesus’ person, work and kingdom is the theme of the Bible.
Law / Gospel Distinction - Law commands and condemns. Gospel saves.
One Way of Salvation - Christ has saved all the elect throughout all the ages.
Optimistic View of History - Jesus Christ is now King ruling over all. He will soon come again.
Baptist
Biblical Church Practice - Ordinances for believers only. Church discipline lovingly exercised.
Biblical Church Freedom - The state is not to intrude into matters of conscience.
Biblical Church Government - Elders and deacons. The local congregation chooses its leaders.
Biblical Church Growth - Gospel proclamation to the world. Repentance and Faith demanded of all.
Biblical Church Ministry - Priesthood of all believers.
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