The concept of Baptist Church Perpetuity, also known as Baptist Successionism, has been a subject of intense debate within Baptist circles. This theory posits that Baptist churches have existed in an unbroken line since the time of Christ and the apostles. However, this claim is not without its critics. Let's examine the arguments for and against this controversial idea. The Case for Baptist Church Perpetuity Proponents of this theory argue that: Jesus promised church perpetuity when He said, "upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18). The church is defined as a local, visible entity composed of properly baptized, organized groups of people, given the exclusive right to propagate in perpetuity until Christ's return. This perpetuity is claimed because it is promised by an all-powerful God. Even in the absence of historical documents, faith in Jesus' promise is sufficient. Various historical groups, such as the … [Read more...]
Why do protestants disagree with the Roman Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation in the Lord’s supper ?
There are differing views among the various Christian denominations with regards to “Real Presence of Christ in the Lord’s Supper. This is a controversial issue; so controversial that even Protestants among themselves have differing views, however none of the Protestants adopt the Roman Catholic view of transubstantiation although Luther’s view while rejecting transubstantiation, is regarded as that closes to the Roman Catholic view among the Protestant views. For the sake of Protestants not familiar with the term, transubstantiation is the Roman Catholic doctrine that changes the substance or essence of the bread and wine offered during the mass. Roman Catholics believe that the bread is transformed into the body of Christ while the wine is transformed into His blood. As in other matters, Roman Catholicism goes beyond the bounds of Scriptures and holds on to transubstantiation. Why do the Protestants disagree with the Roman Catholic church’s position regarding … [Read more...]