American Baptist Churches of the Dakotas
Northern and Southern Baptists split in 1845 over the question of slavery. The Northern Baptist Convention was officially organized in 1907 to coordinate the work of its various societies. The name was changed to American Baptist Convention in 1950, then to the current title in 1972. The American Baptist organization continues the Baptist tradition of autonomy, "soul liberty", and the priesthood of believers. The organization does not dictate policy to its approximately 5,800 local churches. Instead, the denomination exists as a resource to support church missions.
Affiliations: National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A, World Council of Churches, Baptist World Alliance, and the National Association of Evangelicals.
Baptism: Baptism by full immersion is administered only to those who have the maturity to understand its profound significance: resurrection to new life in Christ. (Office of Communication We are American Baptists: A People of Faith, A People in Mission, 3.)
Christ's Return: Church tradition holds that Christ will return in glory.
Creation vs. Evolution: Beliefs vary within the denomination.
Communion: Communion commemorates the sacrifice of the Lord. Many churches practice open communion. (Office of Comm., 3.)
Deity of Jesus: American Baptists affirm that God is sovereign over all and that this sovereignty is expressed and realized through Jesus Christ. Therefore, they affirm the Lordship of Christ over the world and the church. (Office of Comm., 29.)
Distinguishing Beliefs/Practices: The denomination has tended to avoid embracing prepared creeds or other statements that might compromise their obligation to interpret Scripture as individuals within the community of faith under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. (Office of Comm., 2.)
Government: Individual churches are autonomous. Regional organizations and national boards lend support to local churches. The Office of the General Secretary coordinates these efforts. The General Board, made up of a diverse group of ordained and lay leaders, speaks to issues of importance within the denomination through policy statements, resolutions, and other declarations. While its decisions give direction to national staff, it does not obligate any congregation or region to any position or course of action. (Office of Comm., 5-8.)
Heaven/Hell: Beliefs vary, but most believe in a literal heaven and hell.
Homosexuality: The General Board resolution is not binding on churches, but it states that the practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching.
Inspiration of Scripture: Holy Scripture always has been the most authoritative guide to knowing and serving God. As the divinely inspired Word of God, the Bible reveals a person's faith and its mandated practice. (Office of Comm., 2.)
Miracles: Beliefs vary by church.
Restrictions: None.
Security of Salvation: There are a variety of beliefs on this topic.
Speaking in Tongues and Other Gifts of the Spirit: There is no denominational statement. Some churches affirm a charismatic lifestyle.
Trinity: There is a triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer).
Women in Ministry: The denomination has ordained women for more than a century, and approximately eight percent of professional church leaders are women. (Office of Comm., 2.)
======================================================
For more information contact:
American Baptist Churches in the USA
PO Box 851
Valley Forge; PA 19482-0851
Phone: (800) 222-3872 or (610) 768-2000
Fax: (610) 768-2320
E-mail: richard.schramm@abc-usa.org
Web site: www.abc-usa.org
Church information from The 60-Second Guide to Denominations: Understanding Protestant Churches of North America (2003) by Shelly Steig, Published by World Bible Publishers, Inc. Iowa Falls, Iowa
Home
