Denominationism: A Baptist Principle?

Denominationism: A Baptist Principle?

Nathan K. N.G.

This article tries to demonstrate historically and theologically that denominationism should not be a Baptist principle. Five reasons are listed. Firstly, the earliest Baptists evolved from English Puritans. Their main concern was to gain religious liberty against the Anglican State Church. They were very willing to cooperate ecumenically with other free churches in order to achieve their common goal. Secondly, Baptists of the seventeenth century tried their best to unite themselves with the Presbyterians and Congregationalists by revising their Confessions of Faith. Such ecumenical spirit was especially strong in Particular Baptists, who are the real fore-fathers of modern Baptist churches. Thirdly, Baptist faith emphasizes the lordship of Christ and the authority of the Scriptures. As Christian unity is a clear biblical teaching, there is theologically no reason to discriminate a non-Baptist denomination unless it is obviously apostate. Fourthly, the deterioration of catholic spirit among some Baptist groups was a tragic result of Landmarkism and Mullins' theology, both of which are problematic. Finally, Baptists all over the world have participated in the ecumenical movement again, including Southern Baptists who were most seriously influenced by the denominationism of Landmarkism and Mullins' theology.