American Baptists
Learn about who we are as American Baptists—our beliefs, mission, and ministries. Explore resources to grow in faith and serve our community.
An American Baptist Church
10-Facts You Should Know About American Baptists
The 1.3 million members and approximately 5,000 congregations of American Baptist Churches USA share with more than 42 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.
9 Core Tenets of American Baptists
The following facts are representative of the tradition and practice of American Baptists.
1. Authority of Christ and Scripture
American Baptists believe that Jesus Christ is the 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. We celebrate the fact that belief in Jesus Christ assures salvation and eternal fellowship with a loving God. The events of the first Easter week are the cornerstones of our faith: the death of Christ, in which He took upon Himself the sin of the world, and the Resurrection, which gave proof of His triumph over sin and death. Holy Scripture has always been for American Baptists the authoritative and trustworthy guide for knowing and serving the God who is revealed as Creator, Savior, and Advocate.
2. The Centrality of the Local Church
For American Baptists, the local church is the primary locus of mission. Each congregation is autonomous, shaping doctrine, worship, and mission under Christ.
3. Two Ordinances: Baptism and The Lord's Supper
American Baptists observe two ordinances: believer’s baptism by immersion and the Lord’s Supper. Baptism symbolizes new life in Christ; Communion remembers his sacrificial love.
4. Direct Relationship with God
American Baptists affirm that believers approach God directly and interpret Scripture under the Spirit’s guidance within the faith community. God equips all believers with gifts for ministry.
5. A Commitment to Mission and Evangelism
Answering Christ’s call to make disciples of all nations, American Baptists engage in evangelism and ministries of healing, education, and development at home and around the world.
6. Support for Religious Freedom
American Baptists champion religious liberty and the separation of church and state, advocating for the right of all people to worship freely and engage in respectful dialogue.
7. Cooperative Ministries
American Baptists work together beyond the local church, partnering regionally and globally through Baptist and ecumenical relationships to strengthen ministry.
8. Celebration of Diversity
American Baptist Churches USA celebrates racial, cultural, and theological diversity. Unity in Christ grows through fellowship, mutual support, and respectful dialogue, making us the most racially inclusive Protestant body.
9. A Call to Renewal
American Baptists seek Spirit-led renewal for a vital witness today, drawing on our history and Christ’s example to bring transforming hope to the future.
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Our Location
1915 Orchard Dr, Bountiful, UT 84010, USA
(801) 295-6631
HOURS OF OPERATION
Mon-Sun: By Appointment Only
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Please contact Pastor Jim at (385) 777-9057 if you would like to schedule time to meet with him.