CNBC Statement of Faith: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of the CNBC Statement of Faith?
The CNBC Statement of Faith outlines the fundamental beliefs and doctrines shared by Baptist churches within the Canadian National Baptist Convention. It serves as a witness to their shared understanding of Christian teachings and their commitment to the teachings of the Bible.
2. What is the Baptist view of the Bible?
Baptists believe the Bible is the divinely inspired Word of God, entirely true and trustworthy. It serves as the ultimate standard for Christian unity, guiding human conduct, creeds, and religious opinions. All Scripture points to Christ, the central figure of divine revelation.
3. How do Baptists understand God?
Baptists believe in one living and true God, existing eternally as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is the Creator, Redeemer, Preserver, and Ruler of the universe, possessing infinite holiness and perfection. Baptists hold that God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and worthy of their highest love, reverence, and obedience.
4. Who is Jesus Christ according to the CNBC Statement of Faith?
Baptists believe Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He is both fully God and fully man, living a sinless life and revealing the will of God. Through His substitutionary death on the cross, He provided redemption for humanity. He rose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and will return to judge the world and complete His redemptive mission.
5. What is the role of the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, fully divine and active in inspiring the Scriptures, illuminating truth, exalting Christ, and convicting people of sin. The Holy Spirit empowers believers, leading them to salvation, enabling spiritual growth, and gifting them for service in the church.
6. What is the Baptist view of salvation?
Baptists believe salvation involves the redemption of the whole person and is freely offered to all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This salvation is based on God’s grace, not human merit, and received through personal faith in Jesus Christ. It includes regeneration, justification, sanctification, and glorification.
7. What is the Baptist understanding of a church?
A New Testament church, according to Baptists, is an autonomous local congregation of baptized believers, united by covenant in faith and fellowship of the Gospel. These churches observe the ordinances of Christ, are governed by His laws, exercise spiritual gifts, and actively work to spread the Gospel. Each member is accountable to Christ, and leadership within the church is limited to men qualified by Scripture.
8. What is the Baptist perspective on Christian responsibility in the world?
Baptists believe that Christians are obligated to share the Gospel and make disciples of all nations. They also advocate for social justice, opposing racism, greed, and immorality while promoting peace, education, and the well-being of all people. They believe in the separation of church and state and the importance of religious liberty.