Kinship - Our Baptist Heritage
Kinship (Our Baptist Heritage)
Outside the Word of God, one of the greates areas of spiritual ignorance is that concerning the history of New Testament churches over the past almost 2, 000 years.
The Roman Catholic is led to believe his is the only true “Church” that began with St. Peter and continued intact down through the centuries. All non-Catholic denominations are therefore referred to as ‘departed brethren’.
The average Protestant assumes true Christianity virtually disappeared during the “Dark Ages” and was revived with the Protestant Reformation. A lot of Baptists have been hoodwinked into believing they are Protestants who had their beginnings in England during the early part of the 17th Century.
History is to be studies in light of the Word of God. The scriptures promise- and history confirms – the existence of true New Testament churches in every period
of the last 20 centuries.
1. The Perpetuity Of Baptist Churches
By this we mean that in every age there have always been true New Testament churches and believers who have remained faithful to the Word of God.
A. Read: Matthew 28:18-20
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
This commission was given to His churches and is for the churches to fulfill.
i.) In it, the Lord promised to be with them ALWAYS, even to the end of the world.
ii.) If God made such a promise, then we can expect churches to be around until the end of the age to receive the promise.
B. Read Matthew 16:18
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Upon the Rock (Himself) the Lord established His Church, and He said the gates of Hell would not prevail [withstand the onslaught] against it.
C. Read 1 Corinthians 11:26
For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.
The Lord’s Supper is an ordinance given to the Lord’s churches, and is to be perpetually observed – “till He comes.” This again presupposes the existence of New Testament churches at all times to be able to observe this ordinance.
D. Read Ephesians 3:21
Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
In a special way, God is glorified among His churches. This glory is to continue throughout ALL AGES. If true churches disappeared as a result of the apostasy that eventually developed into the Catholic system, this scripture would be meaningless.
E. Much of the New Testament is addressed to Christians in a CHURCH setting. If there have been periods of time when churches have not existed, much of the New Testament was or is useless.
2. The Tail Of Blood
There are many excellent books dealing with the subject of Baptist history. If you enjoy history and would like to read more in-depth presentations, ask your pastor for a list of recommended texts. (The publisher of this book has a two volume church history available for the serious student entitled: Landmarks of Baptist Doctrine.)
Right now, we will read from the little booklet entitled the “The Trail Of Blood” (click the title) by J. M. Carroll. This is a great primer on some of the true facts about church history that will bless your heart.
Answer the following questions from the pamphlet “Trail Of Blood:
A. List three ways many of our Baptist forebears were harshly dealt with:
i.) Way one: At Zurich…. The drowning of those who re-baptize those who had been baptized as infants.
ii.) Way two: In the year of our Lord AD 1539 …. Two Ana-Baptists were burned beyond Southwark and five Dutch Ana-Baptists were burned in Smithfield
iii.) Way three: In 1160 …. In 1160 a company of Paulicians (Baptists) entered Exford. Henry II ordered them to be branded on the forehead, publicly whipped, to have their garments cut short at the girdles, and to be turned out into the country.
See attached scans from pamphlet.
Outside the Word of God, one of the greates areas of spiritual ignorance is that concerning the history of New Testament churches over the past almost 2, 000 years.
The Roman Catholic is led to believe his is the only true “Church” that began with St. Peter and continued intact down through the centuries. All non-Catholic denominations are therefore referred to as ‘departed brethren’.
The average Protestant assumes true Christianity virtually disappeared during the “Dark Ages” and was revived with the Protestant Reformation. A lot of Baptists have been hoodwinked into believing they are Protestants who had their beginnings in England during the early part of the 17th Century.
History is to be studies in light of the Word of God. The scriptures promise- and history confirms – the existence of true New Testament churches in every period
of the last 20 centuries.
1. The Perpetuity Of Baptist Churches
By this we mean that in every age there have always been true New Testament churches and believers who have remained faithful to the Word of God.
A. Read: Matthew 28:18-20
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
This commission was given to His churches and is for the churches to fulfill.
i.) In it, the Lord promised to be with them ALWAYS, even to the end of the world.
ii.) If God made such a promise, then we can expect churches to be around until the end of the age to receive the promise.
B. Read Matthew 16:18
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
Upon the Rock (Himself) the Lord established His Church, and He said the gates of Hell would not prevail [withstand the onslaught] against it.
C. Read 1 Corinthians 11:26
For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.
The Lord’s Supper is an ordinance given to the Lord’s churches, and is to be perpetually observed – “till He comes.” This again presupposes the existence of New Testament churches at all times to be able to observe this ordinance.
D. Read Ephesians 3:21
Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
In a special way, God is glorified among His churches. This glory is to continue throughout ALL AGES. If true churches disappeared as a result of the apostasy that eventually developed into the Catholic system, this scripture would be meaningless.
E. Much of the New Testament is addressed to Christians in a CHURCH setting. If there have been periods of time when churches have not existed, much of the New Testament was or is useless.
2. The Tail Of Blood
There are many excellent books dealing with the subject of Baptist history. If you enjoy history and would like to read more in-depth presentations, ask your pastor for a list of recommended texts. (The publisher of this book has a two volume church history available for the serious student entitled: Landmarks of Baptist Doctrine.)
Right now, we will read from the little booklet entitled the “The Trail Of Blood” (click the title) by J. M. Carroll. This is a great primer on some of the true facts about church history that will bless your heart.
Answer the following questions from the pamphlet “Trail Of Blood:
A. List three ways many of our Baptist forebears were harshly dealt with:
i.) Way one: At Zurich…. The drowning of those who re-baptize those who had been baptized as infants.
ii.) Way two: In the year of our Lord AD 1539 …. Two Ana-Baptists were burned beyond Southwark and five Dutch Ana-Baptists were burned in Smithfield
iii.) Way three: In 1160 …. In 1160 a company of Paulicians (Baptists) entered Exford. Henry II ordered them to be branded on the forehead, publicly whipped, to have their garments cut short at the girdles, and to be turned out into the country.
See attached scans from pamphlet.
B. Read the statement from Cardinal Hosius (President of the Council of Trent, 1545 – 1563) concerning the Baptists. The council’s main object was the definitive determination of the doctrines of the Church in answer to the heresies of the Protestants; a further object was the execution of a thorough reform of the inner life of the Church by removing the numerous abuses that had developed in it.
From page 3… “Were it not that the Baptists have been grievously tormented and cut off with the knife during the past 1200 years, they would swarm in greater number then in all the reformers."
Historical dates/notes from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther#95_Theses:
o On 31 October 1517 Luther wrote to Albert, Archbishop of Mainz and Magdeburg, protesting the sale of indulgences in his episcopal territories and inviting him to a disputation on the matter. He enclosed a copy of the 95 Theses. According to tradition, he posted this document on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg on the same day.
o Diet of Worms – Luther refused to retract theses. Diet of Worms in 1521 presided by Charles V – Luther stated: "Unless I am convicted by Scripture and plain reason—I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other—my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe."
o Charles V initially dismissed Luther's idea of reformation as, "An argument between monks". He later outlawed Luther and his followers in that same year but was tied up with other concerns and unable to try to stamp out Protestantism.
C. How many “marks” or doctrines of true New Testament churches does Dr. Carroll enumerate?
i.) It’s Head and Founder is CHRIST (Col 1:18 )
And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
ii.) It’s only rule of faith and practice – THE BIBLE (2 Timothy 3:15-17)
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
iii.) It’s name CHURCH or CHURCHES Read Matthew 16:18
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
iv.) It’s Policy – CONGREGATIONAL – All members are equal. Matthew 20:24-28
And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
v.) Its members – only saved people.
a. Ephesians 2:21
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
b. 1 Peter 2:5
Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
vi.) It’s ordinances – Believer’s BAPTISM followed by THE LORDS SUPPER
a. Matthew 28:19-20
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
b. 1 Corinthians 11:26
For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.
vii.) It’s officers – PASTORS and DEACONS (what they are supposed to be like): 1 Timothy 3:1-15
This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre [monetary reward or gain; money]; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
viii.) It’s work – getting people saved and baptized (with a baptism that meets all the requirements of God’s Word)
The Four (4) REQUIREMENTS for Baptism to be scriptural (from Study 9 – Immersion)
• Saved candidates
• Submersion in water
• Symbolic representation
• Scriptural authority
ix.) It’s financial plan – TITHES and OFFERINGS from 1 Corinthians 9:14
Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. (to follow in Lesson #20 – Tithing and Stewardship)
x.) It’s weapons – SPIRITUAL not CARNAL 2 Corinthians 10:3-4
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
xi.) It’s independence – separation of church and state. By virtue of the fact scripture dictates obedience to the state, it implies separation of church and state.
a. Titus 3:1
Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
b. 1 Peter 2:13-16
Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
c. Matthew 22:21
They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
Many churches have departed from these marks or doctrines over the ages. Other churches have been true to these doctrines.
SUMMARY - Some unerring or infallible marks of the (true) Christian religion:
o Christ organized His followers into churches
o Churches had two types of officers: bishop (pastor) and deacons selected by the church to serve the church.
o Churches and government were to be separate (churches from churches and churches from government).
o Only two ordinances were given (perpetual and memorial in nature).
o Only “saved” were to received as church members and partake in the Lord’s supper.
o The inspired scriptures (ONLY) are to be the rule and guide of faith and life.
o Christ Jesus is to be the ONLY Lord and lawgiver and head of the churches. The churches to be the executive only in carrying out the Lord’s will and completed laws, Churches never legislate, to amend or abrogate old laws or make new ones.
o This religion of Christ to be individual, personal, and PURELY VOLUNTARY or persuasion. NO physical or governmental compulsion. A matter of distinct individual or personal choice.
o Neither Jesus nor t he apostles ever gave followers denominational names. Followers were referred to as disciples while an organization of disciples was referred to as a church. The singular use of the word church never referred to all the Christian “churches”.
o Complete separation of church and state.
o Special things about Christianity:
* It is a religion not of this world
* It’s founder (Jesus) gave it no earthly head and no temporal power
* It sought no support from any establishment, state, or government
* It does not seek dethronement of any government
* Being spiritual, Christianity is the rival of no earthly government
* Christianity teaches to respect all civil law and governments:
Romans 13: 1-7
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
AND
1 Peter 2:13-16
Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
From page 3… “Were it not that the Baptists have been grievously tormented and cut off with the knife during the past 1200 years, they would swarm in greater number then in all the reformers."
Historical dates/notes from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther#95_Theses:
o On 31 October 1517 Luther wrote to Albert, Archbishop of Mainz and Magdeburg, protesting the sale of indulgences in his episcopal territories and inviting him to a disputation on the matter. He enclosed a copy of the 95 Theses. According to tradition, he posted this document on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg on the same day.
o Diet of Worms – Luther refused to retract theses. Diet of Worms in 1521 presided by Charles V – Luther stated: "Unless I am convicted by Scripture and plain reason—I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other—my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe."
o Charles V initially dismissed Luther's idea of reformation as, "An argument between monks". He later outlawed Luther and his followers in that same year but was tied up with other concerns and unable to try to stamp out Protestantism.
C. How many “marks” or doctrines of true New Testament churches does Dr. Carroll enumerate?
i.) It’s Head and Founder is CHRIST (Col 1:18 )
And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.
ii.) It’s only rule of faith and practice – THE BIBLE (2 Timothy 3:15-17)
And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
iii.) It’s name CHURCH or CHURCHES Read Matthew 16:18
And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
iv.) It’s Policy – CONGREGATIONAL – All members are equal. Matthew 20:24-28
And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
v.) Its members – only saved people.
a. Ephesians 2:21
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
b. 1 Peter 2:5
Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
vi.) It’s ordinances – Believer’s BAPTISM followed by THE LORDS SUPPER
a. Matthew 28:19-20
Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
b. 1 Corinthians 11:26
For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.
vii.) It’s officers – PASTORS and DEACONS (what they are supposed to be like): 1 Timothy 3:1-15
This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre [monetary reward or gain; money]; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
viii.) It’s work – getting people saved and baptized (with a baptism that meets all the requirements of God’s Word)
The Four (4) REQUIREMENTS for Baptism to be scriptural (from Study 9 – Immersion)
• Saved candidates
• Submersion in water
• Symbolic representation
• Scriptural authority
ix.) It’s financial plan – TITHES and OFFERINGS from 1 Corinthians 9:14
Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. (to follow in Lesson #20 – Tithing and Stewardship)
x.) It’s weapons – SPIRITUAL not CARNAL 2 Corinthians 10:3-4
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
xi.) It’s independence – separation of church and state. By virtue of the fact scripture dictates obedience to the state, it implies separation of church and state.
a. Titus 3:1
Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work,
b. 1 Peter 2:13-16
Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
c. Matthew 22:21
They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.
Many churches have departed from these marks or doctrines over the ages. Other churches have been true to these doctrines.
SUMMARY - Some unerring or infallible marks of the (true) Christian religion:
o Christ organized His followers into churches
o Churches had two types of officers: bishop (pastor) and deacons selected by the church to serve the church.
o Churches and government were to be separate (churches from churches and churches from government).
o Only two ordinances were given (perpetual and memorial in nature).
o Only “saved” were to received as church members and partake in the Lord’s supper.
o The inspired scriptures (ONLY) are to be the rule and guide of faith and life.
o Christ Jesus is to be the ONLY Lord and lawgiver and head of the churches. The churches to be the executive only in carrying out the Lord’s will and completed laws, Churches never legislate, to amend or abrogate old laws or make new ones.
o This religion of Christ to be individual, personal, and PURELY VOLUNTARY or persuasion. NO physical or governmental compulsion. A matter of distinct individual or personal choice.
o Neither Jesus nor t he apostles ever gave followers denominational names. Followers were referred to as disciples while an organization of disciples was referred to as a church. The singular use of the word church never referred to all the Christian “churches”.
o Complete separation of church and state.
o Special things about Christianity:
* It is a religion not of this world
* It’s founder (Jesus) gave it no earthly head and no temporal power
* It sought no support from any establishment, state, or government
* It does not seek dethronement of any government
* Being spiritual, Christianity is the rival of no earthly government
* Christianity teaches to respect all civil law and governments:
Romans 13: 1-7
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
AND
1 Peter 2:13-16
Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
EXPLANATION OF THE CHART
By DR. J. M. CARROLL ILLUSTRATING the History of the Baptist Churches from the time of their founder, the Lord Jesus Christ, until the 20th Century.
1. The purpose of this book and chart is to show according to History that Baptists have an unbroken line of churches since Christ and have fulfilled His prophecy -- "I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH AND THE GATES OF HELL SHALL NOT PREVAIL AGAINST IT." In the irregular churches is clearly seen the growth of Catholicism and Protestantism. Baptists are not Protestants since they did not come out of the Catholic Church.
2. The numbers at the top and bottom represent 20 centuries. The first vertical line is A.D. 1, and the second, A.D. 100, and so on.
3. The horizontal lines at the bottom have between them the nicknames given to Baptists during the passing years and ages -- Novations, Montanists, Paulicians and Waldenses.
4. THE RED CIRCLES REPRESENT BAPTIST CHURCHES beginning with the first Church at Jerusalem, founded by Christ during His earthly ministry, and out of which came the churches of Judea, Antioch and others. The red indicates they were persecuted. In spite of the bitterest opposition and persecution Baptist Churches are found in every age. The first nickname given them was Christians, the next Ana-Baptists, and so on. You will notice that the dark ages are represented by a dark space. Even during this time you will notice a continual line of churches called Ana-Baptists. They were continually and bitterly persecuted even unto death by the Catholics. Near the first of the 16th Century the Ana was dropped and they were simply called Baptists.
5. THE BLACK CIRCLES REPRESENT CHURCHES INTO WHICH ERROR CAME AND ARE THEREFORE CALLED -- IRREGULAR CHURCHES. The first error was in church Government--Pastors assumed authority not given them by Christ. Pastors of larger churches claimed authority over other and smaller churches. Thus in the 3rd Century the Roman Hierarchy was established. The Emperor Constantine issued a call in 313 inviting all churches to send representatives to form a council. The red churches--that is Baptist Churches--refused the invitation but the irregular churches responded. The Emperor was made the head and thus the group of churches known as irregular churches became the State Church. The Emperor continued to head the churches until Leo II claimed authority as the successor of Peter. Thus is seen how the error in church Government developed into Popery. In the 16th Century the Protestant Churches began to come out of the Roman Catholic Church. They are called Protestants because they protested against the errors of Catholicism.
6. It was in the year 251 that Baptist Churches declared non-fellowship with the irregular churches. They refused to accept Baptism administered in infancy or for Salvation and thus came the oldest nickname--Ana-Baptists which means re-baptizers.
======================================================================================================
Some martyrs: Stephen was stoned, Matthew was slain in Ethiopia, Mark dragged to death, Luke hanged, Peter and Simon were crucified, Andrew tied to a cross, James beheaded, Philip crucified and stoned, Bartholomew flayed alive, Thomas pierced with lances, James thrown from the temple, Jude shot with arrows, Matthias stoned to death, and Paul beheaded.
Churches grew quickly during the first 3 centuries. Paul had a big job on his hand keeping things straight as evidenced by all his epistles. Scripture warns of problems to come: Acts 20:29-31
For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
D. What was possible the first serious departure from New Testament church order? Beginning at the end of the 1st century, some bishops and elders began to assume authority not given to them in scripture. An early example can be found in 2 John 1:9
I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
E. What was possibly the first serious departure from New Testament church doctrine? Since scripture had so much to say about baptism, some concluded it had an association with salvation! [Baptismal Regeneration – since baptism was a means to salvation, do it as soon as possible! See chart in 2nd century]
F. What was the year of the first recorded baptism of a child? 370 AD
G. What happened in year 251 AD? The first formal separation of churches – loyal churches declared non-fellowship for churches which accepted and practiced errors.
Three important changes (errors) in doctrine occurred in first 3 centuries.
* The error of the authority and formation of a bishop and church government
* Regeneration Baptism [salvation associated with baptism}
* Infant Baptism - the baptism of children (formalized by Catholic church in 416 AD)
H. What was formed in year 313 AD? First formal edict to persecute Christians by Emperor Galerius.
What happened to Jesus Christ as a result of this? Christianity grew and in 311 AD Galerius retracted his edict and granted tolerance toward Christianity and permission to live the religion of Jesus Christ.
I. In 313 AD, Constantine accepts Christianity as the state religion and began a marriage of state and religion. He enthroned himself as head of this state religion. The empire divides into East and West empires.
J. In what year did the DARK AGES begin?
Eight councils held from 325 AD to 869 AD to solidify Catholic Church power. (page 21 and 22). READ #5 on page 23 through #14 on page 26.
K. What doctrines and practices do the Greek Catholics reject? In the 8th council in 869 AD, - division between the two heads. Read #15, Page 26
READ #17 on page 27 through #24 on page 29 about legislation from councils in the DARK AGES. This is where a lot of the Catholic Doctrine comes from.
L. What action was taken by the council of Toulouse in 1229 AD? (# 25 on page 30) DENIES SCRIPTURE to LAYMEN.
1400 – 1600’s
Attempts at reform:
• ( #4 page 31) by: John Wycliff,
• (#5 page 31) John Huss,
• Savonarola (#6 page 32),
• Zwingle, Martin Luther (Luthern – Church of Germany), Melancthon (aided Luther),
• John Calvin (Presbyterian – Church of Scotland),
• John Knox, Henry VIII – Church of England.
GIVES RISE TO Other CHURCHES.
M. List Five “churches backed by civil governments” that were established before the close of the 16th century? (#15, page 35).
• Roman Catholic – Various southern European countries
• Greek Orthodox - various SE European countries
• The Church of England
• Lutheran – Germany
• Presbyterian - Scotland
What was their general attitude toward Anabaptists and Waldenses? They hated Anabaptists. The promised reforms were a delusion – Anabaptists took refuge in hiding places all other the world.
The reformed denominations still practiced:
• Preacher – Church government
• Church – State combination
• Infant Baptism
• Sprinkling or pouring Baptism
• Baptismal Regeneration – association of salvation with baptism
• Persecuting others (forced religion)
Summary of 1400’s through 1600’s - Read #18 through #23 beginning of page 36. It explains why New Testament Baptists can never reconcile with the Catholic Church:
• The authority of the Bible
• Baptism
• Withholding of scripture from laymen (prevent private interpretation).
The Independents or Congregationalists were NOT satisfied by the changes wrought by the reformation. Specifically, they repudiated the doctrine of preacher rule and church government. Not surprisingly, this concept bought the persecution of all existing denominations. Furthermore, these Independents retained some of the false doctrine from the Catholic Church:
• Infant baptism
• Sprinkling or pouring
• Some eventually returned to the Church-State idea
These (English) Congregationalists had markedly similar doctrine to Baptists of today:
• Jesus Christ is the head of the church
• The Word of God (Bible) is it’s statute book
• Visible churches are distinct assemblies of Godly men gathered out of the world for purely religious purposes
• These separate churches have full power to choose their own officers and maintain discipline
• That in respect to their internal management, each church is independent from all other churches and equally independent of state control.
Read # 5 through # 11 beginning on page 39
Read # 12 through # 21 beginning on page 41
• Church of England
• Toleration (#13 on page 42) – the beginning of religious liberty
• Methodist Church (1744) – Wesleys and Whitefield
• Methodist Errors
o Preacher-church government
o Infant baptism
o Sprinkling
o But… a genuine case of spiritual religion!
• John Bunyan – Baptists Preacher – Pilgrim’s Progress
Read 5th lecture (religion in the US) beginning on page 45
• Congregationalists (Puritans)
• Presbyterians (Calvinism)
• These groups denied religion liberty (they believed in church-state)
• Read # 4 beginning on page 46
• No religious liberty!
• Religious liberty first began with Rhode Island’s charter from Charles II in 1663 and subsequent state constitution.
• Read #21 on page 53 about formation of American religious liberty in the constitutional congress about 1790).
• Read #25 on page 55
• Read 1 through 6 beginning on page 56.
N. From the book and chart, fill in the list of names given at various times to our Baptist forefathers?
i. Christians
ii. Montantists
iii. Donatists
iv. Novations
v. Puritans
vi. Waldenses
vii. Ana-Baptists
viii. Baptists
What we believe in. (Fundamental Doctrines from page 57-58 of The Trail of Blood):
• A Spiritual Church, Christ as its founder, it’s only head and law giver.
• It’s ordinances: only two, Baptism and the Lords Supper (they are typical and memorial, NOT saving)
• Its officers: only two, bishops/pastors and deacons. They are servants of the church.
• Its government: A pure democracy and that executive only, NEVER legislate.
• Its laws and doctrines: The New Testament and that only.
• Its members: Believers only, they are saved by grace, not works, through the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit.
• Its requirements: Believers on entering the church to be baptized, that by immersion, then obedience and loyalty to all New Testament Laws.
• The various churches: Separate and independent in their execution of laws and discipline and in their responsibilities to God, but cooperate in work.
• Complete separation of Church and State.
• Absolute Religious Liberty for all.
By DR. J. M. CARROLL ILLUSTRATING the History of the Baptist Churches from the time of their founder, the Lord Jesus Christ, until the 20th Century.
1. The purpose of this book and chart is to show according to History that Baptists have an unbroken line of churches since Christ and have fulfilled His prophecy -- "I WILL BUILD MY CHURCH AND THE GATES OF HELL SHALL NOT PREVAIL AGAINST IT." In the irregular churches is clearly seen the growth of Catholicism and Protestantism. Baptists are not Protestants since they did not come out of the Catholic Church.
2. The numbers at the top and bottom represent 20 centuries. The first vertical line is A.D. 1, and the second, A.D. 100, and so on.
3. The horizontal lines at the bottom have between them the nicknames given to Baptists during the passing years and ages -- Novations, Montanists, Paulicians and Waldenses.
4. THE RED CIRCLES REPRESENT BAPTIST CHURCHES beginning with the first Church at Jerusalem, founded by Christ during His earthly ministry, and out of which came the churches of Judea, Antioch and others. The red indicates they were persecuted. In spite of the bitterest opposition and persecution Baptist Churches are found in every age. The first nickname given them was Christians, the next Ana-Baptists, and so on. You will notice that the dark ages are represented by a dark space. Even during this time you will notice a continual line of churches called Ana-Baptists. They were continually and bitterly persecuted even unto death by the Catholics. Near the first of the 16th Century the Ana was dropped and they were simply called Baptists.
5. THE BLACK CIRCLES REPRESENT CHURCHES INTO WHICH ERROR CAME AND ARE THEREFORE CALLED -- IRREGULAR CHURCHES. The first error was in church Government--Pastors assumed authority not given them by Christ. Pastors of larger churches claimed authority over other and smaller churches. Thus in the 3rd Century the Roman Hierarchy was established. The Emperor Constantine issued a call in 313 inviting all churches to send representatives to form a council. The red churches--that is Baptist Churches--refused the invitation but the irregular churches responded. The Emperor was made the head and thus the group of churches known as irregular churches became the State Church. The Emperor continued to head the churches until Leo II claimed authority as the successor of Peter. Thus is seen how the error in church Government developed into Popery. In the 16th Century the Protestant Churches began to come out of the Roman Catholic Church. They are called Protestants because they protested against the errors of Catholicism.
6. It was in the year 251 that Baptist Churches declared non-fellowship with the irregular churches. They refused to accept Baptism administered in infancy or for Salvation and thus came the oldest nickname--Ana-Baptists which means re-baptizers.
======================================================================================================
Some martyrs: Stephen was stoned, Matthew was slain in Ethiopia, Mark dragged to death, Luke hanged, Peter and Simon were crucified, Andrew tied to a cross, James beheaded, Philip crucified and stoned, Bartholomew flayed alive, Thomas pierced with lances, James thrown from the temple, Jude shot with arrows, Matthias stoned to death, and Paul beheaded.
Churches grew quickly during the first 3 centuries. Paul had a big job on his hand keeping things straight as evidenced by all his epistles. Scripture warns of problems to come: Acts 20:29-31
For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
D. What was possible the first serious departure from New Testament church order? Beginning at the end of the 1st century, some bishops and elders began to assume authority not given to them in scripture. An early example can be found in 2 John 1:9
I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them, receiveth us not.
E. What was possibly the first serious departure from New Testament church doctrine? Since scripture had so much to say about baptism, some concluded it had an association with salvation! [Baptismal Regeneration – since baptism was a means to salvation, do it as soon as possible! See chart in 2nd century]
F. What was the year of the first recorded baptism of a child? 370 AD
G. What happened in year 251 AD? The first formal separation of churches – loyal churches declared non-fellowship for churches which accepted and practiced errors.
Three important changes (errors) in doctrine occurred in first 3 centuries.
* The error of the authority and formation of a bishop and church government
* Regeneration Baptism [salvation associated with baptism}
* Infant Baptism - the baptism of children (formalized by Catholic church in 416 AD)
H. What was formed in year 313 AD? First formal edict to persecute Christians by Emperor Galerius.
What happened to Jesus Christ as a result of this? Christianity grew and in 311 AD Galerius retracted his edict and granted tolerance toward Christianity and permission to live the religion of Jesus Christ.
I. In 313 AD, Constantine accepts Christianity as the state religion and began a marriage of state and religion. He enthroned himself as head of this state religion. The empire divides into East and West empires.
J. In what year did the DARK AGES begin?
Eight councils held from 325 AD to 869 AD to solidify Catholic Church power. (page 21 and 22). READ #5 on page 23 through #14 on page 26.
K. What doctrines and practices do the Greek Catholics reject? In the 8th council in 869 AD, - division between the two heads. Read #15, Page 26
READ #17 on page 27 through #24 on page 29 about legislation from councils in the DARK AGES. This is where a lot of the Catholic Doctrine comes from.
L. What action was taken by the council of Toulouse in 1229 AD? (# 25 on page 30) DENIES SCRIPTURE to LAYMEN.
1400 – 1600’s
Attempts at reform:
• ( #4 page 31) by: John Wycliff,
• (#5 page 31) John Huss,
• Savonarola (#6 page 32),
• Zwingle, Martin Luther (Luthern – Church of Germany), Melancthon (aided Luther),
• John Calvin (Presbyterian – Church of Scotland),
• John Knox, Henry VIII – Church of England.
GIVES RISE TO Other CHURCHES.
M. List Five “churches backed by civil governments” that were established before the close of the 16th century? (#15, page 35).
• Roman Catholic – Various southern European countries
• Greek Orthodox - various SE European countries
• The Church of England
• Lutheran – Germany
• Presbyterian - Scotland
What was their general attitude toward Anabaptists and Waldenses? They hated Anabaptists. The promised reforms were a delusion – Anabaptists took refuge in hiding places all other the world.
The reformed denominations still practiced:
• Preacher – Church government
• Church – State combination
• Infant Baptism
• Sprinkling or pouring Baptism
• Baptismal Regeneration – association of salvation with baptism
• Persecuting others (forced religion)
Summary of 1400’s through 1600’s - Read #18 through #23 beginning of page 36. It explains why New Testament Baptists can never reconcile with the Catholic Church:
• The authority of the Bible
• Baptism
• Withholding of scripture from laymen (prevent private interpretation).
The Independents or Congregationalists were NOT satisfied by the changes wrought by the reformation. Specifically, they repudiated the doctrine of preacher rule and church government. Not surprisingly, this concept bought the persecution of all existing denominations. Furthermore, these Independents retained some of the false doctrine from the Catholic Church:
• Infant baptism
• Sprinkling or pouring
• Some eventually returned to the Church-State idea
These (English) Congregationalists had markedly similar doctrine to Baptists of today:
• Jesus Christ is the head of the church
• The Word of God (Bible) is it’s statute book
• Visible churches are distinct assemblies of Godly men gathered out of the world for purely religious purposes
• These separate churches have full power to choose their own officers and maintain discipline
• That in respect to their internal management, each church is independent from all other churches and equally independent of state control.
Read # 5 through # 11 beginning on page 39
Read # 12 through # 21 beginning on page 41
• Church of England
• Toleration (#13 on page 42) – the beginning of religious liberty
• Methodist Church (1744) – Wesleys and Whitefield
• Methodist Errors
o Preacher-church government
o Infant baptism
o Sprinkling
o But… a genuine case of spiritual religion!
• John Bunyan – Baptists Preacher – Pilgrim’s Progress
Read 5th lecture (religion in the US) beginning on page 45
• Congregationalists (Puritans)
• Presbyterians (Calvinism)
• These groups denied religion liberty (they believed in church-state)
• Read # 4 beginning on page 46
• No religious liberty!
• Religious liberty first began with Rhode Island’s charter from Charles II in 1663 and subsequent state constitution.
• Read #21 on page 53 about formation of American religious liberty in the constitutional congress about 1790).
• Read #25 on page 55
• Read 1 through 6 beginning on page 56.
N. From the book and chart, fill in the list of names given at various times to our Baptist forefathers?
i. Christians
ii. Montantists
iii. Donatists
iv. Novations
v. Puritans
vi. Waldenses
vii. Ana-Baptists
viii. Baptists
What we believe in. (Fundamental Doctrines from page 57-58 of The Trail of Blood):
• A Spiritual Church, Christ as its founder, it’s only head and law giver.
• It’s ordinances: only two, Baptism and the Lords Supper (they are typical and memorial, NOT saving)
• Its officers: only two, bishops/pastors and deacons. They are servants of the church.
• Its government: A pure democracy and that executive only, NEVER legislate.
• Its laws and doctrines: The New Testament and that only.
• Its members: Believers only, they are saved by grace, not works, through the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit.
• Its requirements: Believers on entering the church to be baptized, that by immersion, then obedience and loyalty to all New Testament Laws.
• The various churches: Separate and independent in their execution of laws and discipline and in their responsibilities to God, but cooperate in work.
• Complete separation of Church and State.
• Absolute Religious Liberty for all.