Religion Differences of Baptist vs. Catholic
There are many differences between Baptists and Catholics. Roman Catholics trace their history back to St. Peter, the first leader of the church, while John Smyth founded the first Baptist church in 1609. Baptists are typically identified with the Protestant church, although some Baptists would dispute this. All Baptists believe in the fundamentals of the Evangelical tradition, while the Roman Catholic Church disagrees with the Evangelical tradition on a number of doctrinal points.
Other People Are Reading
-
Virgin Mary
-
One of the biggest differences between Roman Catholics and Baptists are their views about Mary, mother of Jesus. Roman Catholics believe that Mary was perfect in word and deed; they believe that she was sinless and pure, and can consequently act as a mediator between God and us. Baptists on the other hand, believe that Mary was a faithful servant of God, but deny that she was sinless. Baptists also stress that there is only one mediator between God and us, which is Jesus Christ.
Salvation
-
Roman Catholics believe that God grants salvation based on faith, works and participation in the Holy Sacraments, like Communion and penance. Baptists believe that God gives salvation to anyone who has faith in him. Baptists stress the doctrine of "Sola Fide," which says we are justified by faith and not works. Although both Roman Catholics and Baptists believe that faith is necessary, Roman Catholics don't believe that it is the only aspect of salvation.
-
The Security of Salvation
-
Baptists believe the traditional Evangelical phrase, "Once saved, always saved." They believe that once you are joined with Jesus Christ in the spirit, nothing can remove you from his presence. Baptists would cite certain Biblical passages like Romans 8:37-39 that show this eternal security. Conversely, Roman Catholics believe that you can lose your salvation by dying without confessing a mortal sin. Catholics would cite passages such as Matthew 24:13, which show that perseverance is necessary.
The Role of the Church
-
Baptists believe that churches are to be fully autonomous and separate from one another. They believe that the church does hold authority, although they believe this authority is limited. Roman Catholics believe that the church holds ultimate authority, because they believe in apostolic succession: the belief that the papacy has been passed down since Jesus Christ appointed St. Peter as the leader of the church. Roman Catholics and Baptists therefore see the roles of the church in completely different ways.
-
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
