Have you noticed our Free Will Baptist church in the commu­nity? Maybe you have heard of “Baptists” all your life but never realized there are actually dozens of Baptist groups. But who are these Baptists with “Free Will” before their name? And how are they different from the other Baptist groups?

ABOUT FREE WILL BAPTIST

The Free Will Baptist denomination is a fellowship of evangeli­cal churches that adhere to the Bible as the foundation of faith and practice. The denomination began in 1727, and for nearly 300 years has contributed to the moral and spiritual fiber of the nation. Bound by common beliefs, common worship, and a common mission, nearly 300,000 individuals from 2,500 congregations across 40 states have come together voluntarily to extend their impact throughout the world.

Free Will Baptists share the historic Christian Faith with all other genuine Chris­tians. They are, as the name indicates, Baptist in doctrine, teaching that immersion—not sprin­kling or pouring—is the correct method of baptism. Finally, Free Will Baptists are free will in doctrine. Some Chris­tian groups believe God predetermined who would be saved and lost, that Jesus died only for certain “elect” individuals, and the rest have no opportunity to be saved.

In contrast, Free Will Baptists believe God desires salvation for all and sent Jesus to die for everyone. Still, He has given man the freedom of choice to accept or reject Christ’s sacrifice. Those who put faith in Christ’s work are saved. 

Free Will Baptist churches are self-governing, own their own property, and call their own pastors. Yet these independent churches have chosen to work together to carry out various enterprises and programs beyond the scope of the local church. These efforts include several colleges and missions efforts both at home and abroad. The denomination supports missionaries in 20 international locations as well as the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Virgin Islands, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Free Will Baptists enjoy an extensive publishing ministry headed by Randall House Publications.