What Defines Calvinist Baptists?

Calvinist Baptists are a small but distinct branch of the Baptist movement that emphasizes the doctrines of John Calvin, a 16th-century French theologian. These doctrines include the sovereignty of God, the depravity of humanity, the election of the saved, the efficacy of Christ's atonement, and the perseverance of the saints.

Calvinist Baptists are known for their commitment to the Westminster Confession of Faith, a document that summarizes the beliefs of the Reformed tradition. They also hold to the principles of congregational government, believer's baptism, and the separation of church and state.

History of Calvinist Baptists

The Calvinist Baptist movement originated in England in the 17th century. The movement was led by John Bunyan, a pastor who wrote the classic allegory, "The Pilgrim's Progress." Bunyan and his followers rejected the Arminianism that was prevalent in the Church of England at the time. They believed that salvation was not a matter of free will but of God's sovereign choice.

The Calvinist Baptist movement spread to the American colonies in the 18th century. Many of the early Baptists in America were Calvinists. The Calvinist Baptist movement continued to grow in the United States throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.

Calvinist Baptist Distinctives

Calvinist Baptists share many of the same beliefs as other Baptists. However, they are characterized by their distinctive emphasis on the doctrines of John Calvin. These doctrines include:

• The Sovereignty of God: Calvinists believe that God is sovereign over all things. He is the creator and sustainer of the universe. He is also the one who determines who will be saved and who will be condemned.
• The Depravity of Humanity: Calvinists believe that humanity is totally depraved. This means that we are all born with a sinful nature. We are unable to save ourselves from sin, and we are all deserving of God's judgment.
• The Election of the Saved: Calvinists believe that God has chosen some people to be saved. This election is not based on anything we have done, but on God's sovereign grace.
• The Efficacy of Christ's Atonement: Calvinists believe that Christ's death on the cross was sufficient to atone for the sins of all those who have been elected to salvation.
• The Perseverance of the Saints: Calvinists believe that those who have been truly saved will persevere in faith until the end. They will not fall away from salvation, because God will keep them secure.

Calvinist Baptists are a group of Christians who hold to the doctrines of John Calvin. They are characterized by their strong commitment to the Bible, their emphasis on the sovereignty of God, and their belief in the perseverance of the saints. Calvinist Baptists are a vibrant and growing community of Christians who are committed to spreading the gospel and glorifying God.