Introduction
The questions and answers dealt with here are by no means intended to be
viewed as an
exhaustive study of all characteristics, doctrines, or beliefs of Primitive
Baptists. These
questions are simply some basic questions often asked by those who are earnestly
desirous of
knowing Biblical truths. Please search the Scripture references to see for
yourself the foundation
of principles used to answer the questions contained herein.
First Question
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A Brief History of Primitive Baptists
To understand our history you must know the proper meaning of the word
PRIMITIVE as it denominates the Baptists. According to Webster's
Dictionary, Primitive describes that which is
"of, or existing in the earliest time or ages; original." So to understand what
the Original
(Primitive) Baptists believe you must discover what Baptists believed from the
very beginning.
As you study the questions and answers addressed in this book, you will begin to
understand the
doctrines and practices to which the majority of Baptists subscribed before the
period
1828-1842. We believe the Original Baptist teachings are identical to the
doctrinal beliefs held
by Primitive Baptists today.
There was a major division among the Baptist churches during the period from
1828-1842.
Up until that time the majority of Baptists stood together on doctrinal beliefs.
Unrest sprang up
in some quarters because of differing opinions on the true meaning of such
subjects as particular
redemption, election, effectual calling. Some Baptist ministers began to preach
that eternal
salvation was based on a general atonement and was offered to every man of the
Adamic race
and every man was given a free will to exercise in determining his final abode.
Mission boards
began to be formed to send men to preach the gospel as a means of salvation.
Those who held the views of general atonement providing only the opportunity
for salvation,
based on man's acceptance of an offer of salvation were first known as New
School Baptists but
later took the name Missionary Baptists. The beliefs these Baptists hold are
referred too as
Arminian beliefs, because they subscribed to the doctrinal teachings of James
Arminius, a
staunch opponent of John Calvin. Those who remained faithful in the Bible's
teaching of the
Sovereign Grace of God were first known as Old School Baptists and later became
known as
Primitive Baptists. They held to the original teachings of Ephesians 1:4-11;
Romans
8:28-31.
Our Articles of Faith include The Three-Oneness of God; His Self-Existence
and
Sovereignty; The Total Depravity of the Natural Man; The Eternal, Personal;
Unconditional
Election of all the members of the body of Christ; The Special and Definiteness
of the
Atonement; The necessity of a Spiritual Birth in order to worship God in Spirit
and in Truth; The
Sovereign and Efficacious Operation of Divine Grace upon all the Vessels of
Mercy; and the
Baptism of Believers by Immersion.
According to historical records, Dr. John Clark, a physician, constituted the
first Baptist
church in America in the year 1638 at Newport, Rhode Island. The first Baptist
association in
America was organized in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1707.
This all means nothing to the individual except the Holy Spirit reveals
Christ in you the hope
of glory. Then and only then will you find yourself in the believer's ranks.
What is the basic difference between Primitive Baptists and other
religious
societies?
Next Question
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The basic difference is that Primitive Baptists believe in salvation by
grace. There are really
only two positions that a person can have on this matter. One is that salvation
is by grace, and
the other is that salvation is by works. It cannot be a combination of both.
The salvation under
consideration is what Scripture calls eternal life. "Verily, verily, I say unto
you, He that heareth
my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not
come into
condemnation; but is passed from death unto life" (John 5: 24). Jesus proceeds
in the next
passages to speak of two resurrections. Verse 25 speaks of the dead in
trespasses and sins
hearing the voice of Jesus and coming forth to everlasting life. These are the
same dead
referred to in Ephesians 2:1. We know that nothing short of God's Grace is able
to raise the dead.
A person may say that he believes in salvation by grace, but if he sets forth
any act of man's
will, such as repentance, faith, baptism, or hearing the gospel as a condition
for obtaining it, then
this position must be put on the works side. Primitive Baptist believe that
salvation is of the
Lord, that it is by His grace, and nothing needs to be added to it.
We do believe that good works accompany eternal salvation. This is sometimes
termed
works salvation. It is very simple to believe that the dead cannot perform any
work. It is only
when a person becomes alive that works begin. This work does include
repentance, faith,
baptism, and hearing the gospel. These works are not done in order to obtain
salvation; rather,
they are done because of salvation. This is the main difference! Most other
religious orders
believe there is something the individual must do in order to be saved. We
believe the work of
saving is entirely God's gracious act rendered out of pure love. Paul told the
Philippian brethren
to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which
worketh in you
both to will and to do according to His good pleasure" (Phil. 2:12-b, 13). With
God being in us,
it is He, after all who is doing the good work. He will get the glory, and
honor, and praise. Let
us give to God that which is due His high and holy name. Salvation is not an
offer! It is an
assurance to all who were given to Jesus Christ by the Father (See John
6:37).
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What do Primitive Baptists believe about the fall of man?
Next Question
TopThe Bible teaches that Adam willfully transgressed the law of God and
therefore plunged
himself and his posterity into a state of guilt and corruption. (Rom. 5:12-14).
Paul wrote to
Timothy that "Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the
transgression"(1 Tim. 2:14). The word deceive means to make a person believe
what is not true;
to mislead. This bears out the above statement: Adam being fully knowledgeable
of the
judgment of God willingly partook of the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good
and evil. Adam
seemed to be the responsible party to this act. "And the Lord God commanded the
man, saying,
Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: but of the tree of knowledge
of good and evil,
thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt
surely die" (Gen. 2:16,
17). However, Gen. 3:1-3 shows that Eve was also knowledgeable of God's decree.
She was
deceived by believing the serpent who told her, "Ye shall not surely die" (Verse
4). Further, the
serpent told Eve their eyes would be opened and "Ye shall be as gods." When
she said "that the
tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be
desired to make one
wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband
with her; and he
did eat." Here are the three categories into which every sin fits and which
have plagued
humanity since that fall: appetite, pleasure, and wisdom. Satan deceived the
woman, but Adam
was not deceived! He ate knowing full well the consequences.
You may ask if there are any who are exempt from this fall? "Nevertheless
death reigned
from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude
(likeness) of
Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come" (Rom. 5:14).
The whole
Adamic race was in the loins of Adam when he sinned. Therefore: "For all have
sinned and
come short of the glory of God" (Rom. 3:23), also "Wherefore, as by one man sin
entered into
the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have
sinned" (Rom.
5:12). This death is explained in Ephesians 2:1: "For you hath he quickened, who
were dead in
trespasses and sins." Natural death is a separation from all things including
the senses of touch,
sight, smell, hearing, and taste. Primitive Baptists further believe that it is
impossible for man to
recover himself from this state of sin into which he has fallen. We simply
cannot reach out to
any object to take hold of it because we are dead. So it is spiritually; we have
not the ability to
reach out to God. We are separated from Him because of sin making us dead to
God. "There is
none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone
out of the way,
they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not
one" (Rom.
3:11-12). Man is totally depraved. The corruption extends to every part and
faculty of his being.
Man cannot recover himself from this state into which he has fallen. He must be
given life in
order to move!
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How do Primitive Baptists support their view of Unconditional
Election?
Next Question
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Primitive Baptists believe that just as God had a covenant people which He
chose out of the
seed of Abraham, He also has a covenant people chosen in Christ Jesus.
Unconditional election
signifies that God chose a people in Christ and that choosing was not
conditioned on any good
which they would do. But, he determined their final condition based on what
Jesus Christ would
do for them. Let us study carefully some passages found in Ephesians chapter 1:
"According as
he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world..." The word chosen
in the Greek is
eklegomai. It is made up of two primary Greek words: 1) ek; a primary
preposition
denoting origin (the point from where and when motion or action proceeds); from
out of place,
time or cause; literally of figuratively, direct or remote. 2) lego; to lay
forth, i.e. relate in words
usually of systematic or set discourse. From these two Greek words we find the
word chosen
denotes that God from out of place, time, or cause did lay forth a systematic or
set plan for our
Salvation. Ephesians 1:4 gives us a divine expression by God concerning our
election, or
choosing us to glory. If indeed this was from before the foundation of the
world (and it was),
then it could not be because of any good thing in us. But, being chosen in
Christ, our Salvation
is based upon His righteousness being substituted for our lack of
righteousness.
There was also a purpose for this systematic, or set way: "that we should be
holy and
without blame before him in love" (Eph. 1:4-b). We could never stand before
Him justified in
our lost and ruined condition inherited from our first father, Adam. Being dead
in the ruins of
sin, we were unable to do anything. If we were to ever be made holy and without
blame, the
doing of it must be a condition met in Jesus Christ. Therefore, God
unconditionally elected a
people and gave them to Christ. He further determined that these same people
would be holy and
without blame before Him in love. Some people say election is not fair! But what
if God had
chosen to leave you in a condition of eternal separation? (This was God's
sovereign right).
Would this be fair? That system which sets anyone in a state of righteousness is
said to be by
grace which is called unmerited favor.
Someone has asked the question, "What do you do with the passage found in II
Peter 1:10?"
This certainly merits our attention. "Wherefore the rather, brethren, give
diligence..." If this
were the end of the statement, without any qualifications, then it would seem
that something
must be done on our part to assure this election! But we find the writer did
not end the passage
upon these words. He added, "...for if you do these things, ye shall never
fall" (verse 11). "For
so and entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting
kingdom of our
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." The phrase "...for if ye do these things..."
refers to the former
verses 5-7. "Add to your faith..." We notice that faith is presupposed! "For
by grace are ye saved
through faith; and that not of yourselves; it (faith) is the gift of God"
(Eph. 2:8). If we have
faith already existing, we are born of God. By adding to this faith, we assure
ourselves that we
are chosen (elected) of God. Otherwise, grace would have ceased and works would
be the means
instead of the shed blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.
One more passage before leaving this question. Paul wrote to the brethren at
Thessalonica:
"knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God" (1 Thess. 1:4). Again, we are
pointed forward
to find the qualification for this knowledge: "For our gospel came not unto
you in word only,
But also in power and the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance, as ye know what
manner of men
we among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us and of the Lord,
having received
the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: So that ye were
ensamples (examples)
to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia" (1 Thess. 1:5-7). These brethren
were fulfilling
that grand purpose stated in Ephesians 1:4-b: "that we should be holy and
without blame before
him in love." Only this adding to faith and practicing a holy walk before men
by example will
assure us of our election. But let the word of God again stress the fact that
when we find these
things abounding in ourselves, we have already received the effects of election.
This is called
unconditional election. May God establish this in your heart and minds. Only
this will give you
joy and peace through Jesus Christ our Saviour.
Next
Question
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What is the position (belief) of Primitive Baptists on
Predestination?
Next Question
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The teaching of Scripture is that God has chosen a great number of people and
predestinated
(predetermined) them to be conformed to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:28-30).
While some
may object to this doctrine because they say it is unfair, Primitive Baptist
rejoice in it. They see
that except for predestination, the whole human family would have been doomed
forever.
Predestination is not that which condemns a man or places him in a ruined
condition, but it is the
very way in which he is removed from such a state. Predestination does not deal
with what
(things) but with whom (people). It is the great purpose of God to lift a people
up from sin and
corruption and make them like unto Jesus Christ. That is glorious!
"For whom he (God) did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to
the image of
His Son." Two words here need our attention! 1) Foreknow is made up of
two words:
fore and know. The word fore (pre) indicates a former time. The word know as
given by
Webster (when used in a Biblical or legal usage) means "to have sexual
intercourse with. v.i. 1.
to have knowledge. 2. to be sure, informed, or aware." 2) Predestinate is
again two
words: pre (before), and destine (determine). So when we put the two words
together, it simply
means to determine something beforehand. Therefore, the application of Romans
8:29; God
determined beforehand that we would be conformed to the image of His Son. "So
God created
man in His own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female
created he them"
(Gen. 1:27). That image was righteousness and true holiness. Upon the
disobedience of Adam
that image was forfeited or lost. Jesus came to seek and to save that which was
lost. Through
Him, we regained that image. His righteousness was imputed again to those who
were given
Him in the covenant of grace. Paul tells us to "...put off concerning the
former conversation the
old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in
the spirit of your
mind; and that ye put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness
and true
holiness" (Eph. 4:22-24). "If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every
one that doeth
righteousness is born of him" (I John 2:29). And "...he that doeth
righteousness is righteous,
even as he is righteous" (I John 3:7-b). Even so, God has predestinated that we
should again have
that image which was lost in the fall. "The first man is of the earth, earthy:
the second man is
the Lord from heaven. As we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also
bear the image
of the heavenly" (I Cor. 15:47-49). Isn't it wonderful that God not only
foreknew us, but also
predestined us that we would rise in His likeness, His image of righteousness,
and true holiness?
We shall be like Him, for we shall know Him as He is.
Predestination is not spoken of in the Bible as being on the negative side.
i.e., God did not
predestinate any to Hell. When all died in Adam, all were then vessels fitted
to destruction
(Rom. 9:22-24). As has already been stated in the question on unconditional
election, God, out
of mercy, elected to bring some from the state of death unto life: "But God,
who is rich in
mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins,
hath
quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved)..." (Eph. 2:4-5).
Those vessels fitted to
destruction willingly and willfully continue on that path. God does not force
them in that way.
They are alive and free in the area of sin but are dead unto the things of God.
Before caring for
the things of God, the individual must be given life. God is active in that
area! Now to consider
predestination in this light, we see God in a special, loving relationship with
those whom He
chose in Christ Jesus our Lord. He is the Alpha and the Omega. To Him be all
honor, glory, and
praise for ever and ever. Amen.
Next Question
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Didn't Jesus die for the whole human race?
Next Question
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This question, like many others, could be answered with a short, compact
statement which
would be sufficient for those who are taught the truth of God's sovereign grace.
Jesus said that
He came into the world to do the will of His Father, and this being that He
should have all (the
elect) who were given Him before the world began (John 6:37-39). Jesus came to
save His
people from their sins and certainly he accomplished that (Matt. 1:21; Rom.
8:33, 34). He died
for His sheep (John 10:15). He died for sons, for the sanctified, for the
brethren, for the church,
and for the children (Heb. 2:9-15). He saw the travail of His soul and was
satisfied (Isa.
53:10-12). However, for the benefit of those who for some reason or another
have not been
instructed in the truths of God's sovereignty and grace, we will let the Holy
Scriptures
speak.
Listen to the words of Jesus: "Marvel not at this: [Jesus had been speaking
of those who are
spiritually raised from the dead state of nature] for the hour is coming, in the
which all that are
in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done
good, unto the
resurrection of life and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of
damnation" (John
5:28-29). This is commonly referred to as being the general resurrection and is
the same as that
spoken of in I Thess. 4:13-17 and also in I Cor. 15:50-55. However, the proof
text which
answers this question is found in the wording of John 5:29b "...they that have
done evil, unto the
resurrection of damnation." The wording of this phrase could result in a
misunderstanding of the
true meaning of salvation by grace. To some who believe in a work's doctrine,
the stress would
be put on "...they that have done evil." However, scripture proves scripture!
The reason for
anyone doing evil is based upon the doctrine of total depravity. Paul explains
it best in these
words: "Wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world,
according to the
prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of
disobedience: among
whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh,
fulfilling the
desires of the flesh and of the mind: and were by nature the children of wrath,
even as others"
(Eph. 2:2-3). The term by nature, is that human nature in which we were all
clothed by natural
birth. Except that nature be changed in regeneration, there is no hope for any
of Adam's
posterity. "But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he
loved us, even when
we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are
saved)" (Eph.
2:4-5). Out of all of Adam's posterity God chose to redeem and save some for
eternity through
the effectual work of Jesus. (Please read Eph. 1:4; John 6:37-39; Matt.
1:21;Rom. 8:33-34; John
10:15.) Jesus said to some: "Why do ye not understand my speech? even because
ye cannot hear
my word. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will
do" (John
8:43-44b). Pray over these things! If Jesus died for all persons, then without
exception, all shall
be in heaven! He did not fail in anything which was determined for Him to do!
We will be
discussing this further in answering the question, Do Primitive Baptists deny
that Christ died
for the world?.
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Do Primitive Baptists deny that Christ died for the
world?
(This is known as the doctrine of General Atonement.)
Next Question
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Primitive Baptists do not believe in the doctrine of General Atonement. To
do so would be
to deny all of the above scriptures which declare that Christ died for a
particular people who
were given Him before time began. He did not fail in one thing! We repeat
again: If Jesus died
for all persons, then without exception, all shall be in heaven! However, we
know this will not
be the case. This would embrace the doctrine of universalism which states that
none shall be
lost eternally. The doctrine of General Atonement simply puts the shedding of
the blood of
Jesus Christ without strength. It teaches that salvation is only an offer. If
this be the case, it
leaves no alternative except to believe that Jesus died for some whom He is not
able to save.
"Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou
shalt make his soul an
offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the
pleasure of the Lord
shall prosper in his hand. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall
be satisfied." (Isa.
53:10-11a). This alone justifies the words of Jesus on the cross when He cried,
"It is finished"
(John 19:30). He had finished the work of redemption for the sins of His
people. (See Rom.
8:28-33.)
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are
passed away, behold,
all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to
himself by
Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that
God was in Christ,
reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and
hath committed
unto us the word of reconciliation" (II Cor. 5:17-19). The Greek word for world
as used in this
passage was Kosmos, and meant "...an orderly arrangement." We could never be
reconciled
(made friendly) to God without an orderly arrangement. This arrangement was not
made as an
afterthought. It was planned by God before the world began and pertained to a
particular people
who are called the elect (those chosen in Christ). This sheds a brighter light
on the words
spoken by Jesus to Nicodemus: "For God sent not his Son into the world (Kosmos)
to condemn
the world (Kosmos); but that the world (Kosmos) through him might be saved"
(John 3:17).
Jesus came among God's own people to pay the sin debt for them.
They, along with the whole of humanity, were already condemned by the sin of
Adam! So
Jesus Came to "...save his people from their sins" (Matt. 1:21). "He that
believeth (present tense)
on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because
he hath not
believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God" (John 3:18). Only those
who were
reconciled unto God were those for whom Christ died. They are the world of
God's elect.
Next QuestionTop
How do you know that all of the elect will respond to
the call
of the Spirit?
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This is what is known as the doctrine of effectual calling. Paul addressed
this subject clearly
in his epistle to the Roman Church. "For whom he did foreknow, he also did
predestinate to be
conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many
brethren.
Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them
he also
justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified" (Rom. 8:29-30). All of
this is spoken of
as if it had already been done. The terminology is placed as past tense. This
all took place in
eternity before time began. God is the only one who is able to speak of things
not yet done, as
though they had already been accomplished. What God has determined cannot be
annulled. He
changes not! "Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none
else; I am
God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from
ancient times
the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do
all my pleasure"
(Isa. 46:9-10). He foreknew all whom he will call. The revealed intention of God
is that all of
these shall be conformed to the image of His son. That final image will only be
completed at the
final resurrection. Then we shall rise in His likeness. No one would deny that
the resurrection
call is effectual (John 5:28-29). We will then be completely free from sin and
be transformed
into the righteousness and true holiness of Jesus Christ.
God's calling is also effectual in time to those whom He chooses to bring out
of darkness
into His marvelous light. "All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and
him that cometh
to me I will in no wise cast out" (John 6:37). Jesus is saying that His will and
the Father's will is
in complete harmony. Peter also testified to this: "But ye are a chosen
generation, a royal
priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the
praises of him who
hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Pet 2:9).
To those who would seek to find inconsistencies in God's word by pointing to
the Jews
whom God also called, we will only say, "You have not rightly divided the word."
"What then?
Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath
obtained it, and the rest
were blinded (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of
slumber, eyes that
they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day" (Rom.
11:7-8). The
apostle Paul begins the chapter by saying, "I say then, Hath God cast away his
people? God
forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of
Benjamin. God hath not
cast away his people which he foreknew" (Rom 11:1-2a) He continues in this great
purpose of
God: "For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what
shall the receiving of
them be, but life from the dead?" (Rom. 11:15). Paul places a finality on the
doubting minds of
men by saying, "As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but
as touching the
election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes. For the gifts and calling of
God are without
repentance" (Rom. 11:28-29). If these disobedient Jews were beloved at any time,
they are still
beloved! God's will shall be done in the army of heaven and among inhabitants of
the earth, and
none can stay His hand, or say unto Him, "What doest thou?" Satan is
continuously striving to
disprove the greatness and love of our sovereign God. Yet, he can never prove
that God has
either failed or that He has changed. God is effectual in all His works and
ways! This includes
His calling. In time and in eternity the vessels of mercy whom He hath afore
prepared unto glorydo answer Him.
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Do you not then teach that some might want salvation,
but can
not have it because they are not one of the elect?
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I suppose this question will have to be first dealt with by asking a question
in return: Who is
it that is endowed with the ability to have a desire? Certainly the dead have no
desires! This is a
simple deduction. Then it must be one who is alive that has the ability to
desire anything.
Therefore, if any person desires salvation, it is an evidence of life!
"...except a man be born
again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3b). To desire to be in the
kingdom surely
indicates that one has seen the beauty of that kingdom and believes it does
exist. "He that
heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and
shall not come
into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life" (John 5:24b).
Furthermore, a person does
not pass from death unto life spiritually except that he is one of God's elect.
Again, I ask you to
read Romans 8:29-30; Ephesians 1:4-9. We could close the subject here and it
will be believed
by the spiritual person who thinks rationally concerning God's work in
salvation. The person
who desires to have salvation—already has it, but like Nicodemus, that one does
not understand
the ramifications of God's plan. Like the rich young ruler who came to Jesus,
one needs to be
told what to do in order to enter into life.
Let us examine the other element of Adam's race. First, they are termed them
that perish.
Speaking of hearing the gospel: "the preaching of the cross is to them that
perish foolishness" (1
Cor. 1:18). We know there is only one group of people to which this could apply:
the unsaved,
those dead in trespasses and sins! To this group the word of God means nothing!
It is foolishness
to them! Only after God has dealt with man spiritually, does he change his mind
about the word
of God. The natural mind can learn the wisdom of the world, but cannot discern
the wisdom of
God in Spiritual things. These are called "...vessels of wrath fitted to
destruction..." (Rom. 9:22).
Man in his natural state is dead in sins and is already in a perishing
condition. In this condition
he does not desire salvation. Only that one who is born of God has the desire of
Salvation. This
knowledge alone brings peace.
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Why do you preach if you are already sure that all of
the Elect
are going to be saved in Heaven?
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The Scripture tells us that the gospel is good news. It is good news because
it reveals what
God has done for us through Jesus Christ our Lord. "Comfort ye, comfort ye my
people, saith
your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare
is
accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's
hand double for
all her sins" (Isa. 40:1-2). The word double used in this passage is kaphal in
the Hebrew and
means "...to fold so as to put out of sight." This comfort is a prophecy
concerning the coming
Messiah. If you continue on through verse 3, it prophesies of John the Baptist.
This is the gospel
which declares that instead of receiving a double portion of punishment,
heavenly Jerusalem has
had her sin-debt hid from sight by the blood of Jesus Christ. There are two
other passages which
use the word double: (First) Isaiah 61:7 which is speaking of the bringing in of
the Gentiles, "For
your shame ye shall have double; and for confusion they shall rejoice in their
portion: therefore
in their land they shall possess the double: everlasting joy shall be unto
them." (Second)
Zechariah 9:12 (again speaking of the King riding upon an ass having salvation):
"Turn you to
the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare that I will
render double unto
thee." The word for double used in both of these passages is Misneh' and
translated document.
Isaiah 40:2, 61:7, and Zechariah 9:12 together, say that God hath folded the
document which
declared us guilty! Then some would ask why Primitive Baptists preach the
wonderful gospel of
good news? This is what the quickened sinner desires to hear! The Apostle Paul
surely was right
when he declared, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the
power of God unto
salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
For therein is the
righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just
shall live by faith"
(Rom. 1:16-17 ).
Ephesians 4:11-16 gives a clear definition for the purpose of preaching the
gospel. (Prophets
and Apostles) "For the perfecting of the saints; (Evangelists) for the work of
the ministry;
(Pastors and Teachers) for the edifying of the body of Christ: (purpose?) That
ye henceforth be
no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of
doctrine, by the sleight
of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But
speaking the truth in
love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ"
(Verses 12, 14, 15).
The gospel gives growth to the body by the edifying of itself in love. This is
why Primitive
Baptists preach! The beloved doctrines of Grace are the only words that will
bring the Children
of God unto perfection. When they learn what God did for them they eat and grow
in
knowledge.
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Don't you believe that the preaching of the gospel is
God's
ordained means of bringing eternal salvation to the sinner?
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The purpose of preaching has already been discussed in the foregoing
Question, "H2>Why
do you preach if you are already sure that all of the Elect
are going to be saved in Heaven?". We do not believe that the preaching of the
gospel is God's
ordained means of quickening sinners to
eternal life. It seems that the Apostle Paul's letter to Timothy answers the
question fully. He was
speaking of God, "Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not
according to our
works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ
Jesus before
the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus
Christ, who
hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the
gospel" (II Tim.
1:10). This is clear that eternal salvation was given us by God through Jesus
Christ who
abolished death. Also it is clear that the gospel was the means by which the
light shined on the
life (salvation) which was given through Jesus Christ our Saviour.
Next, let us examine John 3:6-8. "That which is born of the flesh is flesh;
and that which is
born of the Spirit is spirit." Here we find the natural man and the Spiritual.
The natural is first
and then the Spiritual. So Jesus said to Nicodemus, "...Ye must be born again."
The natural man
knows nothing except by the spirit of nature. In order to see the kingdom of God
it was necessary
for Nicodemus to have that change from nature (see verse 3). Then Jesus compared
the Spirit
with the Wind, "The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound
thereof, but canst
not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of
the Spirit." Jesus
preached the gospel to Nicodemus. But before He preached we hear Nicodemus
confessing,
"...Rabbi (or Master), we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man
can do these
miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." (John 3:2). When it is seen
in this light, verse
3 is clarified and can be classed as a statement rather than setting a
condition. The point is that
the natural spirit in Nicodemus could never discern the things of God. So his
eyes must have
been spiritually open before confessing that Jesus came from God. Therefore, the
preached word
did not give life; life preceded action!
Let us go to the words of Jesus at another time and to some who did not
believe. At
Capernaum Jesus was speaking to some who had been fed natural food and were
still following
Him. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the
miracles, but because
ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled" (John 6:26b). Then He spoke of meat
which perisheth
and meat which endureth unto eternal life, "...which the Son of man shall give
unto you: for him
hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we
might work the
works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that
ye believe on
him whom he hath sent" (John 6:27b-29). Regeneration gives eternal Salvation.
Deaf ears do not
hear the gospel.
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If preaching the gospel is not God's ordained means of
bringing eternal salvation to the sinner, how then do you explain I Corinthians
1:21 and other
passages like it?
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The text reads, "For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew
not God, it
pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe." Please
notice that the
one saved by the gospel is already a believer! The text does not say, "to save
them that will
believe." This would put it in the future tense. It simply keeps it in the
present tense by saying,
"them that believe." Let us go back and put things in proper perspective. "For
the preaching of
the cross is to them that perish foolishness…" (1 Cor. 1:18a). One who is a
present believer is not
the same as them that perish. These last to whom the preaching of the cross is
foolishness cannot
and will not hear the gospel to their saving! "…but unto us which are saved it
is the power of God.
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and will bring to
nothing the
understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is
the disputer of
this world? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?" This flows so
gently into the
text (verse 21) until it would be foolish not to understand, "it pleased God by
the foolishness of
preaching to save them that believe." Until those who take the gospel to be
foolishness are
regenerated (born again), they will never receive the gospel message. How then,
can the
preaching of the gospel be God's ordained means of bringing eternal salvation to
the dead alien
sinner? "For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which
is in him? even
so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God" (I Cor 2:11). May
God open the
hearts of those who are confused.
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Why is it that Primitive Baptists do not send out
missionaries?
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Please read 2 Tim. 1:9-10 for two important facts: (1) Speaking of what God
has done, "Who
hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works,
but according to
his own purpose and grace, (2) which was given us in Christ Jesus before the
world began, But is
now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath
abolished death, and
hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:"
The question as to why Primitive Baptists do not send out missionaries,
really must be
answered with a question: What is the purpose of sending missionaries? If the
answer is to save
souls for heaven, I believe the above Scripture states that God hath saved
(given eternal life), and
only those who are saved are able to respond to the message of Christ being
preached. If the
answer is to make disciples of those who God has given life, then every
Primitive Baptist
preacher is a missionary, or to use the Biblical term, an evangelist. If a poor
sinner has hearing
ears, then that person has already passed from death unto life and shall not
come into
condemnation eternally. (Please study Eph. 1:4-6; 2:1-8).
Primitive Baptists believe stronger than most that the gospel should be
preached. We also
believe in going wherever the Holy Spirit leads rather than being sent by a
mission board. The
purpose of preaching the gospel has already been stated in this lesson, but let
us go further. "And
he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some,
pastors and
teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for
the edifying of the
body of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and
carried about
with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness,
whereby they lie in
wait to deceive;" (Eph. 4:11-14). Nothing is said in these verses about saving
souls for Heaven!
It all declares that every office mentioned here is for the purpose of edifying
the body of Christ!
One of the most moving sermons preached by the Apostle Paul was to the elders
whom he
summoned from Ephesus as he journeyed to Jerusalem. "Take heed therefore unto
yourselves,
and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to
feed the church
of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood" (Acts 20:28). We believe
that preachers'
appointments are made by God.
We find recorded in Acts chapter 8 an account of Philip being in Samaria.
Stephen had been
stoned to death and a man named Saul had consented to his death. Saul made havoc
of the
church, entering into every house, and haling men and women he committed them to
prison.
Therefore, the Twelve were scattered abroad and went everywhere preaching the
word. Philip
had great success in Samaria and the people gave heed to the things preached.
Verse 26 begins
with an angel appearing and telling Philip to go down into the desert. Philip
obeyed and was led
to a man of Ethiopia. He was told to get into the chariot and he obeyed! The
Ethiopian was
reading from Isaiah, "he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep
before her shearers
is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth" (Isa. 53:7). Philip began there and
preached unto him
Jesus. Philip did not make a child of God; rather he preached the gospel of good
news to one
whose heart the Lord had opened. By all standards Philip would not have been
sent by a modern
mission board. He had just recently been chosen as one of the seven deacons. His
name was first
on the list. He probably would have been chairman of this board of deacons.
Nothing has been
said about him being called into the ministry. We can see where a decision by
the Mission Board
to send Philip on this mission would have conflicted with policy making. But
contrary to the
ways of men, God made a way for His higher purpose for Philip's life. The
preaching of Philip
had fallen on hearing ears and the eunuch went on his way rejoicing.
We do find in the book of Acts where certain men had been sent out by the
church at
Antioch. The church acted under the auspices of the Holy Ghost. "Separate me
Barnabas and
Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. So they, being sent forth by the
Holy Ghost,
departed unto Seleucia" (Acts 13:2b-4). Although the church at Antioch sent
them, they did not
direct them as to where they were to preach. They went wherever they were
directed by the Holy
Ghost. Great success was given them.
We find these same men later going and strengthening the churches. "And as
they went
through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep. And so were the
churches
established in the faith, and increased in number daily" (Acts 16:5). We
continue to follow those
men of God in the early church, and they ever prove the fact that they did not
save one soul for
eternity. However, they preached to those whom God had quickened and the
direction of their
lives were changed. They were saved to the church kingdom. The gospel surely did
shine a light
on that which God had already done. They were gathered into the assembly of the
saints.
Primitive Baptists do not support foreign mission boards, but we will support
men of God
who forsake houses and lands, father and mother, home and loved ones in order to
preach the
gospel to poor sinners who have been quickened to life by the Holy Spirit and
have their ears
opened to hear the good news of what Jesus had done for them! Those who are dead
in
trespasses and sins (Eph. 2:1) have not the faculties to act and therefore,
cannot have the desire.
LET US GIVE THE GLORY TO GOD! He will not share His glory with another! "For
after that
in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the
foolishness of
preaching to save them that believe" (1 Cor 1:21). We can readily see those who
are believers
are the only ones who understand this wisdom of God. Evangelism will never make
a child of
God! But preaching will bring children from darkness to light.
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Why are your ministers called Elder?
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We often hear the word Reverend applied to one who is a preacher. This is not
a Biblical
name for man who is made of flesh and blood. The name reverend is used only one
time in the
Bible. (Psa. 111:9) "He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his
covenant for
ever: holy and reverend is his name" (Psa. 111:9). This certainly is not
speaking of man! No man
can redeem one soul from hell. How dare this name be used in reference to man
even though he
be sent to preach the word of God.
The answer given is from I Tim. 5:17 "Let the elders that rule well be
counted worthy of
double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine." There has
been much
debate on what ministers should be called. There are other words used in the New
Testament
which denote the ministers which were recognized in the early church, one of
which is Bishop.
Paul writes, "Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the
saints in Christ Jesus
which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons:" (Phil. 1:1). Paul tells
Titus to ordain elders
in every city "as I had appointed thee" (Titus 1:5). In verse 7 he calls these
same elders also
bishops. Their purpose: "Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught,
that he may by
sound doctrine both to be able to exhort and convince the gainsayers" (Verse 9).
In I Peter 5:1;
they are called elders. Peter tells us they are not to be lords over God's
heritage. They are to be
examples to the flock. Paul exhorted the elders to feed the flock of God over
which the Holy
Ghost "...hath made you overseers." They are to feed the church of God which he
has purchased
with His own blood. (Acts 20:28).
They are also called preachers. "How then shall they call on him in whom they
have not
believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how
shall they
hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent?…" (Rom.
10:14-15a). In
other places they are called ministers. Paul explains that a ruler (one set over
the word) is the
minister of God to them for good. "For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for
they are God's
ministers, attending continually upon this very thing" (Rom. 13:6). In all these
places the terms
used above are synonymous. Nevertheless, they speak of one who is sent to tend
the flock of God
and preach the word rightly.
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Are Primitive Baptists Protestants?
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The true church of Jesus Christ was established before the religious
institutions of men
bearing the name Christian came into being and has been somewhere in the world
since that
time. The true church was in existence long before the Protestant Reformation,
so it cannot
really be called a Protestant Church. Hassell's Church History states twelve
characteristics of the
Apostolic Church. We will deal with some of the more evident characteristics
which set us apart
from Protestantism.
(1) They believed in a Regenerated membership. This is one of the general
beliefs of
most denominations. Primitive Baptists need proof of our stand. We believe that
in order
to act upon the proposition of Salvation, the New Birth (regeneration) must take
place. John
1:13: "Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the
will of man, but of
God." Certainly this is self-explanatory to the rational mind. Regeneration is a
prerequisite of
Repentance, Acceptance, Baptism, or any other act which brings us into the will
of
God.
(2) They believed in a baptized membership. Baptism, is from the Greek word
baptizo,
"meaning to put into or under water, so as to entirely submerge or immerse." It
never means
pouring or sprinkling. Until the Protestant Reformation in the sixteenth
century, there were
people known as Montanists, Tertulianists, Waldenses, Albigenses, United
Brethren of Bohemia,
and Lollards; who were known as Ana-Baptists (or re-baptizers) because they did
not
acknowledge the scripturalness or validity of infant baptism, and therefore,
baptized those who
joined them on a profession of faith. The first authorization, by a Roman
Catholic Council was
made at the Ravenna Council, 1311, for the substitution of sprinkling or
pouring for
baptism. They left it to the choice of the officiating minister.
Concerning infant baptism: (Hassell's Church History, page 271) "For since
in these
very young children baptism could not be a profession of personal faith, it
could only lead the
masses to suppose that it acted as a charm, and that the child was more
safe in case of death,
a view carefully cherished by the clergy. Thus arose the belief that all,
even infants,
dying without baptism, would be lost: The first known instance of the baptism
(sprinkling) of
infants of even one day old, was A.D. 256 in North Africa. These ideas slowly
and gradually
pervaded the ‘church', so states the historian Neander. (Page 451 Elder
Hassell's Church
History). In accordance with all recorded history, especially the Bible (the
written
word of God), Primitive Baptists stand where the Apostolic Church stood on the
question
of baptism."
(3) The Lord's Supper. According to the record of the Scriptures, those who
were baptized
believers came often around the Table of the Lord, and commemorated the
sufferings and
death
of their precious Redeemer, and used common wine to represent His blood shed for
them. The
two practices of Baptism and the Lord's Supper, or Communion, were called
ordinances of the
Church. These were strictly observed. Only those people who were regularly
baptized were
admitted to the Table of the Lord to partake of the Bread and Wine. Acts 2:46
records
these as "...continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking
bread from house to
house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart" Acts 20:7 tells
us that Paul and
the Apostles came together to break bread. The Church is also admonished not to
admit those
who were guilty of some sins: "...if any man that is called a brother be a
fornicator, or covetous,
or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an
one no not to eat" (I
Cor. 5:11b). Paul admonished each one to examine himself before partaking
of
the Lord's Supper (I Cor. 11:26-34). In some religious congregations infants
and/or
unregenerated persons are allowed to take Communion. This was clearly forbidden
in the early
Apostolic Church. This is not practiced by true Primitive Baptists. This
practice is another mark
which sets us apart from protestant bodies. If others desire to rebel against
God's
commandments, that is their privilege. However, it does not mean that God
approves of these
practices.
(5) The independent or congregational polity or government of each local
body, subject only
to the headship of Christ. This has been the cause of much error. When there is
a ruling body
over a number of churches, it violates the rights of the individual body.
Primitive Baptists have
always taken the standard of the autonomy of each church congregation as being
supreme under
God. Too much power can be ruinous.
(6) The complete separation of Church and State. [This was the cause of much
of the
persecution of the early Church by Rome.]
(11) The sending forth of the ministry by the Holy Spirit, and their going
wherever the Lord
directed.
Upon examination of the other marks of the Apostolic Church, it is self-evident that
Primitive Baptists stand upon the precepts taught throughout the New Testament.
Some of the
other characteristics will be discussed as we proceed through the questions with
which we intend
to deal.
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What do Primitive Baptists believe about Biblical
giving?
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In order to answer this question properly we need to see: (1) What does God's
Word say
about Biblical giving? (2) Is this still in effect today? In finding the answer
to Biblical giving, let
us go back to God's dealing under the Old Testament.
The first giving to God that we find in the Bible is Cain bringing of the
fruit of the ground
and Abel bringing the firstlings of his flock and their offering them unto God
(Gen. 4:3-4). Very
early in the history of man, there has been the idea of giving from those who
were mindful of
God's mercy. This giving came to be called offerings. When Noah came forth from
the Ark, he
took from the clean beasts and clean fowls and built an altar where he offered
them unto God.
"And the LORD smelled a sweet savour; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not
again curse
the ground any more for man's sake..." (Gen. 8:21a). God was pleased with this
offering or
giving. During the lifetimes of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob they offered from time
to time
sacrifices to God. As the law had not yet been given, these were for the most
part free-will
offerings to God. It was not until the law was given to Moses that a certain
amount was required
by God. Let us look at one exception. We find that a specified amount was
mentioned in Gen.
14:20 when Abraham met Melchisedec as he returned from the rescue of Lot:
"...and he gave
him tithes of all." This is mentioned in the book of Hebrews 7:1-2: "To whom
also Abraham
gave a tenth part of all" This man who followed God by faith practiced giving
and tithing even
before the law was given.
Leviticus 27:30 gives what is called the law of the tithes: "And all the
tithe of the land,
whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD'S: it
is holy unto the
LORD." (Being holy simply meant it was set aside for the Lord). "The first of
the firstfruits of
thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the LORD thy God..." (Ex. 23:19a).
Of the animals
which were brought to the Lord, they were to bring the first of the flock. These
were to be
without blemish or spot. (God gave His only begotten Son for us). Why should we
offer to Him
only that which is left over? Many people say this was under the law! They say
it is no longer
required for we are under the liberty of Grace! THINK!!! Abraham paid tithes in
Melchisedec
before the law was given! He gave through faith! "Therefore it is of faith, that
it might be by
grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only
which is of the law,
but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us
all..." (Rom. 4:16).
Let us look at what God teaches in the New Testament. Is this tithing still
in effect today?
Jesus admonished the Scribes and Pharisees in this way: "Woe unto you, scribes
and Pharisees,
hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the
weightier
matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done
[tithe of your mint,
anise, cummin], and not to leave the other [judgement, mercy and faith ],
undone" (Matt. 23:23).
According to the teaching of Jesus, they were not excused from giving a tenth of
their material
things. Paul wrote, "Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have
given order to the
churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the week let every one
of you lay by
him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I
come" (1 Cor.
16:1-2). Also "For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to
that a man hath, and
not according to that he hath not" (2 Cor. 8:12). Not only are we not excused in
withholding
from God in our tithes and offerings, Divine Scripture gives us a rule to be
used in our giving.
We are to lay this aside on the first day of the week (Sunday) according to how
God has
prospered us! Many times God's people accuse God of not providing. This
accusation is often
shown in the form of our giving! The flesh says, "I am not able." God says, "But
this I say, He
which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth
bountifully shall reap
also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him
give; not
grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver" (II Cor. 9:6-7).
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What does the Bible say about the support of the
ministry?
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God's Word is specific in instructing the congregation as well as giving
instructions to the
minister (Elder). "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double
honour, especially
they who labour in the word and doctrine. "For the scripture saith, Thou shalt
not muzzle the ox
that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward" (I Tim.
5:17-18). There are
three thoughts in this passage: (1) The congregation is not to withhold from the
Elder a portion
of their harvest; (2) The Elder is admonished to apply himself so as to obtain
the greatest yield
from his labors; (3) That which is received by the minister (Elder) is called a
reward. Great
salaries (so-called) have sometimes persuaded the minister to covet the
congregation which paid
the most. When these teachings are kept in proper perspective, God will bless
both congregation
and minister. Paul wrote many things to the Church at Corinth because they
lacked in
understanding. "Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live
of the things of
the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even
so hath the Lord
ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel" (I Cor.
9:13-14). Paul
continues by saying he has not used these things lest the gospel becomes a thing
of boasting on
their part. (Please read I Corinthians 9 entirely).
Lastly, Paul admonishes Timothy concerning preaching on this subject: "Charge
them that
are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain
riches, but in the living
God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be
rich in good works,
ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a
good foundation
against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life" (I Tim. 6:17-19). The rich young
ruler who came to Jesus was told what he must do in order to enter into life.
He had kept the
law (so he thought), yet he had not been willing to communicate or distribute to
the poor. He
was a covetous man who trusted in material things. As we answer the question as
to what
Primitive Baptists believe about Biblical giving, we dare not stop short of
Scriptural teaching.
Neither do we dare go beyond what God's Word teaches us. May we ever endeavor
to follow
these teachings trustingly and God will make us able.
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Is it true that Primitive Baptists participate in
washing feet at
communion?
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It would be sufficient just to say yes and go to the next question. My reason
for making this
statement is that many have a watered down answer which they believe to be
scriptural. It has
been stated by many that this did not mean a literal washing. They say it can be
done by giving
something to the needy and hungry. There are others who say this was done
because of their feet
being tired and also being dirty from wearing sandals. These reasons are neither
scriptural nor
logical.
(1) As to giving to the needy and hungry, Jesus first provided these things
before this night
of nights. He fed thousands on two different occasions. He taught by precept and
word the
blessedness of giving. He healed the sick, opened the eyes of the blind, caused
the deaf to hear,
among many other things for those who were in need. After having done all of
this, "He poured
water into a basin, girded Himself with a towel and began to wash the disciples
feet and to wipe
them with the towel wherewith He was girded" (John 13:5). If this carried the
meaning of simply
doing another good deed, why did not our Saviour just remind them again to
continue in these
things?
(2) As to the idea of washing their feet because of tiredness or being dirty
from wearing
sandals, this is simply a fabrication. Certainly, it was a custom of hospitality
that was done
during this period. Satan is deceitful enough to use something which is feasible
in order to
deceive those who consider it beneath their dignity to wash their brother's or
sister's feet. This
certainly sounds logical! But let us ask the question, "Why were not their feet
washed as they
entered the room? Or, certainly before eating supper?" Instead, it was after
supper that this was
done! "He (Jesus) riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a
towel, and girded
himself" (John 13:4). We need to be careful lest we belittle the intentions of
our Lord in our
striving to justify our fleshly desires to remain in the bracket of the worldly
wise.
After Jesus had finished washing their feet he sat down and began to talk to
them. He said,
"Know ye what I have done to you?" (John 13:12b). This is needful yet today. We
need to strive
to understand why Jesus did certain things. In understanding we will find
ourselves more and
more fashioning our lives to conform with His. Jesus told them, "Ye call me
Master and Lord:
and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your
feet; ye also
ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye
should do as I have
done to you" (John 13:13-15) The example, as explained by Jesus, was to show
humility: "The
servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he
that sent him" (John
13:16b). He also said that "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do
them." There is
happiness found in imitating the life of Jesus.
Let us look at another phase of this passage. Peter asked a question which is
very revealing.
"Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash
my feet? Jesus
answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know
hereafter"
(John 13:6-7). He was speaking of a later day when Peter would need this lesson.
Then Peter
made one of his famous rash statements: "Thou shalt never wash my feet." Jesus
answered him,
"If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me." What an humbling statement this
was for Peter.
He loved the Lord and became very humble and willing for not only his feet to be
washed, but
his hands and head also. Peter did not want to be put away from fellowship with
Jesus.
Obedience would be needed when they were left to carry out the work of the
kingdom to which
Jesus had appointed them. A failure to be obedient now would continue to be a
pattern in the
lives of these whose work was very important. To fail in this part would mean
failure in a more
important part. When preaching the gospel and teaching the things of the kingdom
would put
their lives in danger, they would need to be obedient and believing that
protection comes from
the Lord. If obedience to the washing of feet could not be observed, what would
be the outcome
when they must stand before kings and the Gentiles? Does this have anything to
do with our
lives? Certainly it does! Cowardice can become a pattern in our lives just as
living on the edge
between falsehood and truth can become a pattern. So will obedience become a
pattern when
practiced in small things. When greater tasks become our lot in life, the
muscles of obedience
which were exercised in small things will cause us to continue in faithfulness.
Jesus was saying
to Peter, "If you do not carry on in this part, I cannot use you in times when
obedience is of the
essence." Jesus was looking to other times when boldness would be needed by
these Apostles.
We find the first of this recorded in the book of Acts. "But Peter, standing up
with the eleven,
lifted up his voice..." (Acts 2:14). Among those who had followed Jesus
throughout this time,
Peter was the first to be obedient to the Holy Ghost. The sermon which followed
was so
convicting that at the end Jews who had been foremost in the persecution of
Jesus cried out to
Peter and the rest of the Apostles, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" (Acts
2:37). This was
the beginning of that part to which Jesus was referring on that last night
before going to the
cross.
One other thing of distinction which we need to observe before ending this
answer. If we
knew that we were speaking to our loved ones for the last time, would we not
speak of things
which we felt would be of great importance in their lives? Jesus loved us far
greater than we are
able to love our family and friends. I believe He spoke of things which would be
of importance
to their carrying on the work to which they were appointed. By participating in
the Last Supper,
it was important that they understood that this was to show forth His death and
suffering until He
comes again. In the washing of the feet, He showed that humility was very
important in the lives
of servants who carry on the Master's work. Obedience is very important if we
are to be faithful
to Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. If there is no
humility nor
faithfulness in our lives, we certainly have no part with Jesus. He will not use
us in His
kingdom's work. Our lives will be void of the joy and happiness which is to be
found in Him.
Peter realized what this darkened side of life would be without Jesus. He cried
out in the greatest
act of obedience, "Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head." Let
us know of a
surety, "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." May God bless us
in obedience to
do whatever Jesus commands us to do.
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Do Primitive Baptists actually believe they are the
only ones
going to Heaven?
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While it may be that this view has been misconstrued by someone who did not
have proper
understanding, it has never been the Biblical view of Primitive Baptist
teaching. There have
been different views drawn because of interpretation of God's Word. Each view
may have been
drawn by individuals who desired to justify a particular human belief. If the
view stated in the
question is held by any who call themselves Primitive Baptists, it is because of
ignorance. They
have either failed to study God's word or willfully and with prejudiced minds
misinterpreted
[and/or with malice aforethought misrepresented. skb] it. There are also those
who through
ignorance reject the doctrines of sovereign grace and have gathered such things
which they think
justify their darkened minds and hearts. We need to measure our beliefs by God's
Holy Word!
Jesus told the Pharisees to "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have
eternal life: and
they are they which testify of me" (John 5:39). Also, we are told that Scripture
is sure; "Knowing
this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.
For the prophecy came
not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved
by the Holy
Ghost" (II Peter 1:20-21). If an interpretation is to be made either pro or con,
we must be careful
that the same Holy Ghost who moved holy men to write it also moves us to the
right
interpretation of God's meaning.
"After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first
voice which I
heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither,
and I will show
thee things which must be hereafter" (Rev. 4:1). The scene which follows
describes the praise to
God who sat on the throne, (ch. 1:2-11). As we continue we hear a new song which
declares, "for
thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred,
and tongue, and
people, and nation;" (Rev. 5:9). "and the number of them was ten thousand times
ten thousand,
and thousands of thousands;" (Rev 5:11 (KJV). Some might say this was not
Heaven, but only
heavenly places. Regardless of this (which does not change God's word), we will
have to admit
they were all redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. If they were redeemed,
they shall be in the
eternal glory of Heaven! I ask you the question, "Does this mean that all of
these countless
millions were Primitive Baptists on earth?" Preposterous! There are people in
our own country
who have never heard of Primitive Baptists. So we refer to the statement made by
the one who
composed these questions. "One's doctrinal views or church affiliation has
nothing to do with his
eternal destiny." In order to further examine what the Scriptures say about our
eternal destiny, let
us look at the Question, "H2>Doesn't the belief that your destiny is in the
hands of God and
that you can do nothing about it cause you a great amount of anxiety?".
Answering this question
will help us understand that it is not whether
you are a Primitive Baptist or of some other religious order. However,
understanding what
Primitive Baptists believe should direct your church affiliation. To know the
truth and stay in
error is sin!
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Doesn't the belief that your destiny is in the hands of
God and
that you can do nothing about it cause you a great amount of anxiety?
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No! On the contrary: Just to know that God cares about His elect people gives
rest and peace
to the soul. When one understands rightly the doctrine of total depravity and
that condition being
our state when we are born into this world, it is a comfort to know that only
God can change that
condition. Our destiny would have been Hell had God not changed that destiny!
"Nay but, O
man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him
that formed it,
Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same
lump to make
one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonor?" (Rom. 9:20-21). Man was made
of clay,
and unless God mold that lump into a vessel unto honor, our destiny is forever
doomed. "What if
God, willing to show his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much
longsuffering
the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction: And that he might make known the
riches of his glory
on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory, Even us, whom
he hath called,
not of the Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?" Rom. 9:22-24). It does not take
any imagination
to find the truth declared concerning our destiny in the above message from God!
Verse 23c tells
us that the vessels of mercy were before prepared unto glory. If this be the
case, it was not an
afterthought on God's part. The destiny of His elect people was a well-planned
affair!
Paul writes in the Ephesian letter that God the Father chose us in Christ the
Son before the
foundation of the world. He declared at that time that we would be holy and
without blame
before Him in love (Eph. 1:4). Verse 5 tells us that he predestinated us (pre-determined our
destiny) to be adopted as children by Jesus Christ to Himself all because of His
good pleasure!
He has made us accepted in the beloved Son (Verse 6). We are told, "But God, who
is rich in
mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins,
hath
quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)" (Eph. 2:4-5). At
that time we were
without hope, and without God in the world, but now we are made nigh by the
blood of Christ
(Eph. 2:13-14).
There are many things which could be said in answer to this question.
However, in
conclusion, let us go to the words of Jesus Himself. "And this is the Father's
will which hath sent
me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise
it up again at the
last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth
the Son, and
believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last
day" (John
6:39-40). After all this proof of the sovereign work of God who saw all things
and predetermined
that His elect would be with Him in Glory should we be anxious about where we
will spend
eternity? NEVER! We should just feel abundant peace!
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For what purpose were the Scriptures written?
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Someone has said, "The Scriptures are meant as a blueprint to show us how to
get to
Heaven." For a number of reasons this is not a true statement. First of all,
Paul wrote to Timothy
advising him to continue in the things which he had learned. "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" (II Tim. 3:15). Paul continued by saying, "...it is
profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness..." Rather than being
a blueprint to show
us the way to get to Heaven, it is the inspired word of God telling us how we
should conduct our
lives here on the earth. The Scriptures will throughly (thoroughly) furnish us
unto all good
works. For every situation, or trial in our lives, there is a solution to be
found in God's inspired
word.
Scripture says: "for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of
God. For what man
knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so,
[meaning by the
same reasoning] the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God" (I Cor.
2:10-11).
Jesus told us, "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you
into all truth: for
he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he
speak: and he will show
you things to come" (John 16:13). In conclusion to these things concerning the
purpose of the
written word, we are brought to the knowledge of the impossibility of
understanding the written
word without the Holy Spirit being our interpreter. So, therefore, it is to
instruct the child of God
in doctrine and righteousness. The written word was not intended to give life,
nor was it
intended to be used as a road map to Heaven.
Is the word the means by which we are born
again?
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In order to answer this question we need to know the difference between
causes and effects!
Understanding the written word does not cause one to be born again. However,
understanding
the written word is the effect of being born again!
This word is not the same as The Word when spoken of in the Bible.
EXAMPLE:
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged
sword, piercing
even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow,
and is a discerner
of the thoughts and intents of the heart" (Heb. 4:12). The word here is not
capitalized and is
referring to the written word. On the other hand, John wrote: "In the beginning
was the Word,
and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). "And the Word was
made flesh,
and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten
of the Father,)
full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). This Word is speaking of Jesus Christ. He
is the only
Saviour of men! If this then be true, the written word has no power to save in
the eternal sense.
However, we do believe there is deliverance (saving) through the written word.
When rightly
understood, it will deliver (save) us from error in this life. There is nothing
better for the child of
God to study than the written word of God. There is no other book to which we
can turn that will
speak to the heart things which God intended us to know by way of instruction.
The word of the
Gospel is good news to that one who is laboring under the load of sin and guilt.
Conviction of
sin is proof of life.
Let us look at some other passages concerning the purpose of the written
word. "Now all
these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our
admonition, upon
whom the ends of the world are come" (I Cor. 10:11). Paul is speaking of sins
committed by the
children of Israel. He is instructing us (upon whom the ends of the world are
come) that we will
be saved from destruction by refraining from the same sins. "For whatsoever
things were written
aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of
the scriptures
might have hope" (Rom. 15:4).
Jesus used the written word in combating the temptations of Satan while in
the wilderness.
"It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of
God...for it is written,
Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve" (Luke 4:4,
8). By
prophecies which were written, Jesus was revealed to those who were looking for
His
appearance on earth. "As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the
prophet, saying, The
voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his
paths straight"
(Luke 3:4). There are many, many more references which prove the purpose for the
written word
of God. However, the written word will never save us for Heaven, but it will
save us from evil
things which confront us everyday of our lives. So let us study to show
ourselves approved unto
God, rightly dividing the word of truth, "...for it is profitable for doctrine,
for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be
perfect, throughly
furnished unto all good works" (II Tim. 3:16, 17). In order to understand this
word we must first
be born again! Understanding is the effect of being born again, not the
cause!
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Do Primitive Baptists believe in preaching the gospel
to
sinners?
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Yes! In fact, the only people in the world interested in the gospel of grace
are poor, needy
sinners. A person must be made sensible to sin by the Holy Spirit. A person must
be born again
in order to receive the gospel message. Jesus was criticized by the Pharisees as
He sat down to
eat with Publicans and sinners. "And Jesus answering said unto them, They that
are whole need
not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but
sinners to repentance"
(Luke 5:31-32). Paul wrote to the Corinthian brethren saying, "But the natural
man receiveth not
the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can
he know them,
because they are spiritually discerned" (I Cor. 2:14). In the prayer of thanks
from Jesus to the
Father, He thanked God that these things were hid from the wise and prudent, and
were revealed
unto babes. "...I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou
hast hid these
things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. Even so,
Father: for so it
seemed good in thy sight" (Matt. 11:25b-26). The idea projected by many
religious orders is that
God uses the Gospel to quicken (give life) to those classed as sinners. The
words of Paul to
Timothy states that God hath "...brought life and
immortality to light through the gospel:" (II Tim. 1:10b). The purpose of the
offices of the
Gospel is for the perfecting of the saints; for the edifying
of the body of Christ, so that we might grow in knowledge of Christ and His
Church (Eph.
4:11-16). A sinner is one who has been made knowledgeable of his sins. One who
is dead in
trespasses and sins will never see himself as a sinner without the giving of
life. As those who are
quickened to life, Primitive Baptists strive to follow in the steps of Jesus: we
strive to recognize
those so quickened that we might preach to them the Gospel of their
salvation.
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Do Primitive Baptists call upon men to repent and
believe?
Top
Yes, the burdened sinner ought to repent and believe the truth. This is the
only way in which
he will ever find relief from his burdens and find peace to his soul. Jesus
said, "Come unto me,
all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matt. 11:28).
In coming to Jesus
in repentance, the sinner is told the steps to take in order to fulfill all
righteousness. This
counseling of the Gospel (when followed) will save him from the distress felt,
and it will save
him from error and confusion. This is the context of Paul's admonition to the
Church at Rome:
"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in
thine heart that
God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved" (Rom. 10:9). (Please
continue reading
the remainder of Rom. 10.) Verse 16 of this passage reveals that "But they have
not all obeyed
the gospel..." And verse 17, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by
the word of God."
The above is a modifying clause based upon faith (or believing) that Jesus
Christ is the answer to
all the needs from that of Eph. 2:8. It is that faith exercised! It carries the
same meaning as
Paul's admonition to the Roman Church of not being ashamed of the Gospel of
Christ. "for it is
the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first,
and also to the
Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith (of Eph. 2:8)
to faith: (that
which is exercised)" (Rom. 1:16-17). Again we are reminded of the saving
involved in believing
and obeying: "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that
believeth not shall be
damned" (Mark 16:16). Also on the day of Pentecost, they were told to repent and
be baptized.
"...Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name
of Jesus Christ..."
"And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves
from this
untoward generation" (Acts 2:38, 40). This was not meant to convey the idea of
an eternal
saving, but rather, saving themselves from the error of a generation that was in
rebellion against
God. In discussion of this question you will be led into other Scriptures which
will lock together
the truths of God's word. There can be no peace to the sinner except he repent
and believe the
good news of the Gospel proclamation. We are saved for Heaven by the grace of
God in
regeneration! We are saved from error by repenting of our sins and believing,
not only on Jesus,
but in Jesus as our only hope. This was the message of John the Baptist, it was
the message of
Christ in His first sermon, and it is the message of Primitive Baptists. We call
upon quickened
sinners to repent and believe!
Top
Where did the Primitive Baptists get their name?
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The true Church has been known by several different names since Christ set it
up during His
earthly ministry. In centuries past those who made up the Gospel Church have
been known by
the names of Christians, Donatists, Waldenses, Albigenses, Ana-Baptists, and
others.
The following statements were taken from Church History by C. B. and
Sylvester
Hassell, pp. 335-336. "The earliest Confession of Faith denominated Baptist was
published in
Switzerland in 1527." "In 1633 the first Particular or Predestinarian Baptist
Church was formed
in London, and in 1639 another; and in 1644 there were seven of these churches
in London, and
they then published a predestinarian Confession of Faith. In 1656 sixteen
churches in Somerset
and the adjoining counties published a similar Confession. In 1677 and in 1688,
and again in
1689, was published the fullest and most esteemed Baptist Confession of Faith,
in 1689 the
ministers and messengers of above a hundred churches in England and Wales
meeting in London
for that purpose, and, as they say in their prologue, 'denying Arminianism.'
This Confession is
published in this volume [Hassell's Church History], and adopts, on the subject
of predestination,
the strong language of the Westminster (the most esteemed Presbyterian)
Confession. The great
majority of Baptists in England and America (those called the Particular
Baptists in England,
and those called Regular or Calvinistic or 'Missionary' Baptists in America)
still profess to
adhere to this old London Confession." "...from 1633 to the present time (1886)
the most of
those called Baptists have professed to be Predestinarians."
"The first Baptist Missionary Society was formed in Kettering, England, Oct.
2, 1792.
Andrew Fuller was chosen and remained its secretary till his death, traveling
almost continually
through the British Isles, and pleading for the mission cause, and charging the
society nothing
for his services" (Page 341, Hassell's Church History). "Mr. Fuller admitted
these views were
different from those held by the Baptists during the most of the eighteenth
century. His views
were essentially the declaration of the Roman Council of Trent which state that
Divine
commands necessarily imply human ability just as though man had never fallen"
(Page 339,
Hassell's Church History). Andrew Fuller and William Carey are considered
to be the
fathers of Missionary Baptists.
Around the year 1832 there was a division in the Baptist family in America.
Those who
insisted on establishing mission boards, and other unscriptural societies in the
church became
know as the New School or Missionary Baptists. Those who continued to walk in
the old paths
were known as Old School or Primitive Baptists. The word Primitive simply means:
"of early
times; of long ago; first of the kind; very simple; original." The name was more
or less
interpreted by many as meaning that we were backward and ignorant. It was placed
upon us by
those who wanted to improve on the things taught by the Holy Scriptures. It is
the sincere desire
of this writer that all who are interested in the truths of God's word will
study prayerfully the
explanations to the twenty-four questions and that you will measure this
exhaustively with all
other references to which you will be led in your study. It is my belief that
when you have
exhausted every avenue of God's word that you will have a solid background for
our belief of
what the word teaches. The name of Primitive Baptist is not the most important
thing! Rather
than this, it is the doctrine of God's word. May God open your minds and hearts
to the embracing
of this doctrine.
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Elder Bill Taylor
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