Baptist Distinctives

Virginia Baptists have practiced certain fundamentals which have guided the denomination historically.

• Believer's Baptism is basic to Baptist belief. It asserts that the church is composed of believers only. Baptists stand for the necessity of conversion. Therefore, they do not practice infant baptism. Baptism by immersion is a requirement for church membership, but not for salvation.

• Christ is Lord of the individual believer and head of the church. The Bible is authoritative in matters of faith and practice, and no man-made creed is necessary.

• Priesthood of the Believer. Each individual believer is competent to deal directly with God in responding to the claims of the gospel. The Christian is free to read the Bible and to be guided in its meaning by the Holy Spirit through devoted study. The Pastor is first among equals, but not the ruler.

• Ordinances are composed of baptism and the Lord's supper. Neither of these secures salvation for the believer, but they reenact the gospel story in an effective manner.

• Democracy in the operation of the church, the district association, the state association, and any national convention. Each congregation is self-governing, and its relation to other Baptist bodies is voluntary. No other Baptist body can legislate the affairs of the local church.

• Separation of church and state.The state exercises necessary civil authority, and the church witnesses to the gospel of Christ seeking to enlist and build up believers in the faith. Each must maintain separate administrations, separate funding and separate educational programs.

• Missions. Baptists have maintained a fervent missionary spirit in affirming that the gospel must be proclaimed to the whole world. This has been demonstrated in an outreach which has led to the ends of the earth.
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