BAPTIST Meaning and
Definition
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A Baptist is an individual who is affiliated with the Christian theological tradition known as Baptist, which emphasizes the practice of believer's baptism by immersion and the autonomy of local churches. Baptists adhere to the belief that baptism is meant to be reserved for those who possess personal faith in Jesus Christ and have made a conscious decision to publicly declare their commitment to Him. This act is considered a pivotal rite of passage within the Baptist tradition.
Furthermore, Baptists typically place a strong emphasis on religious freedom, personal spiritual experience, and the authority of the Bible as the sole basis for faith and practice. While there is no centralized Baptist authority or hierarchy, local Baptist churches are primarily autonomous, with individual congregations having the freedom to govern themselves without external interference. This congregational autonomy distinguishes Baptists from other Christian traditions that are more centralized in structure.
The term "Baptist" can also refer to the wider community of believers who identify with the Baptist tradition, encompassing a diverse range of denominations, associations, and individuals around the world. Despite these differences, Baptists are generally united by their adherence to core principles such as the centrality of faith in Christ, the significance of baptism by immersion, and the belief in the importance of individual conscience in matters of religious belief and practice.
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One of a religious sect which opposes infant baptism; John the Baptist.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for BAPTIST *
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Other Common Misspellings for BAPTIST
Etymology of BAPTIST
The word "Baptist" has its roots in the Greek word "baptizō" (βαπτίζω), which means "to dip" or "to immerse". This word is derived from the Greek word "baptō" (βάπτω), meaning "to dip" or "to plunge". The term "Baptist" initially described a person or group that practiced baptism by immersion, as opposed to other forms of baptism, such as sprinkling or pouring. The noun "baptist" eventually came to represent a member of a Christian denomination that emphasizes adult baptism (instead of infant baptism) and the act of immersion. The term was first used to identify the followers of John the Baptist, a significant figure in the Bible who baptized Jesus Christ. Over time, "Baptist" became associated with different Christian denominations that share a similar belief in adult baptism and immersion.
Idioms with the word BAPTIST
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the Baptist
The idiom "the Baptist" typically refers to John the Baptist, a prominent figure in the Christian faith. John the Baptist was a prophet who is believed to have baptized Jesus Christ in the Jordan River, as mentioned in the Bible. In a broader sense, the idiom can be used to refer to someone who strongly advocates for a cause or prepares the way for a significant event or change.
Similar spelling words for BAPTIST
- Baptized,
- baptists,
- baptize,
- baptistery,
- baptism,
- baptistic,
- baptistry,
- baptised,
- baptismal,
- Baptista,
- baptise,
- baptisia,
- Baptiste.
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