The 1.5 million members and 5,800 congregations of American Baptist Churches USA share with more than 43 million Baptists around the world a common tradition begun in the early 17th century. That tradition has emphasized the Lordship and atoning sacrifice of jesus Christ, believers’ baptism, the competency of all believers to be in direct relationship with God and to interpret Scripture, the importance of the local church, the assurance of freedom in worship and opinion, and the need to be Christ’s witnesses within society.

The following facts are representative of the tradition and
practice of American Baptists around the world

ONE
American Baptists believe that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, and that the Bible is the divinely inspired word of God that serves as the final written authority for living out the Christian faith.

TWO
For American Baptists, the local church is the fundamental unit of mission in denominational life.

THREE
American Baptists partake of two ordinances: BELIEVERS’ BAPTISM and THE LORD’S SUPPER.

FOUR
American Baptists believe that the committed individual Christian can and should approach God directly, and that individual gifts of ministry should be shared.

FIVE
American Baptists take seriously the call to evangelism and missionary work.

SIX
American Baptists support religious freedom and respect the expressions of faith of others.

SEVEN
American Baptists acknowledge that God’s family extends beyond our local churches, and that God calls us to cooperative ministries.

EIGHT
American Baptists have been called to be Christ’s witnesses for justice and wholeness within a broken society.

NINE
American Baptists Churches USA celebrates the racial, cultural and theological diversity witnessed within its membership.

TEN
American Baptists heed the biblical call to renewal and the need for a vital witness in a new millennium.

Source: “10 Facts You Should Know About American Baptists” brochure, 2000,
American Baptist Churches USA, www.abc-usa.org