how to become a baptist?

[Family man]

Being a newbie to this forum, I respect the idea that there is a “Baptist only” section, but I have to admit the lively debates are intriguing and look like a lot of fun.

So if I may ask, because I have only attended a Baptist church once (and that was when I was about 11 years old), (now 70) how does someone actually become a Baptist as opposed to some other kind (not real sure what word to use there) of Christian? Are there Baptists and then just “generic Christians,” or is that the wrong way to think about it? Do you have to have a certain kind of baptism to be considered Baptist or is in a name brand?

I’m asking genuinely, not trying to stir the pot. I’d just like to understand how Baptists see this.

 

[Ben1445]

I have seen folks who call themselves Baptist and claim that there is no Baptist church to attend but still claim the title.
In my opinion a people fellowship with people who believe like they do. Generally speaking, if you agree with Baptist doctrine, I would expect that you might be looking for a Baptist church. I don’t mean that you must. Just that, generally speaking Baptists go to Baptist churches because they agree with the doctrine.
There are some people who go as far as to say it doesn’t matter whether you call yourself Baptists or not so long as you believe the right doctrine.
In reality, it doesn’t matter what you call yourself as long as you believe truth. Truth defines the believer. But the question is are you looking to be a follower of Christ or a Baptist?
I’m a follower of Christ and I believe that Baptist doctrine is as close to accurate as it gets, otherwise I would be somewhere else.

I recognize that it is not necessary to be a Baptist to follow Christ.

There is my two cents. Someone will follow up with the Baptist distinctives, I’m sure.

I am out of time.

 

[KenH]

There are various kinds of "Baptists" with differing beliefs as to what the Bible teaches. I think that originally the name "Baptist" referred to folks who immerse as the method of baptism as opposed to the sprinkling or pouring as in the Catholic Church, and also that baptism is for those old enough to understand the Bible and to place their faith in Christ and His finished work to save His people from their sins.

Now, as an example, here are the articles of faith of Grace Baptist Church of Ruston, Louisiana, where I am a member:

Articles of Faith

 

[37818]

Being a newbie to this forum, I respect the idea that there is a “Baptist only” section, but I have to admit the lively debates are intriguing and look like a lot of fun.

So if I may ask, because I have only attended a Baptist church once (and that was when I was about 11 years old), (now 70) how does someone actually become a Baptist as opposed to some other kind (not real sure what word to use there) of Christian? Are there Baptists and then just “generic Christians,” or is that the wrong way to think about it? Do you have to have a certain kind of baptism to be considered Baptist or is in a name brand?

I’m asking genuinely, not trying to stir the pot. I’d just like to understand how Baptists see this.

1. Baptist is a persuasion.
2. That the New Testament documents are the sole authority in all matters of the Christian Faith and practice.

* I was lead to Christ as my Savior in the summer of 1962, by way of Faith Baptist Church of Canoga Park, California. [Was 14]
* I later received believer's immersion.
* In 1966 being 18 joined the US Air Force. Had to specify a religion. Christian was TOO generic. So I specified Baptist.
* In the summer of 1970, being discharged from active duty. I made the choice to join Faith Baptist Church of Canoga Park.
* In fall of 1978 moved my membership to Central Baptist Church of Pomona, California.
* Moved to Riverside county after approximately 2007.
* Attend other churches.
* Currently attending Highland Baptist Temple. California.
* I am Baptist by persuasion.