What Is a Primitive Baptist?

By Lasserre Bradley, Jr., Cincinnati Ohio

We have been asked the question “What is a Primitive Baptist?” many times through the years, but recently since our broadcast is on the Internet, we have been asked it by several people who had never before heard of Primitive Baptists. Sometimes when I am asked the question in person, I respond, “Do you want the 60 second answer or the 60 minute?” Of course, most people want only a quick, concise answer. But I am thankful to say there are those who were interested enough with the short answer to make further inquiry. I thought a brief response to the question here in the BW might be helpful for those who are just beginning to receive this publication.

The word “primitive” simply means “first or original.” Primitive Baptists continue to place an emphasis on the sovereignty of God and the truth of salvation by grace, as most Baptists did in years gone by.

Because of growing concern over departures from the simple practices by which the early church had been identified, a group of ministers met in 1832 at Black Rock Church near Baltimore, Maryland and signed a document known as the Black Rock Address. Through this division in the Baptist family, those remaining with the original Baptist faith and practice became known as Old School or Primitive Baptists.

There has been much misunderstanding through the years about what was actually said in the Black Rock Address. Some have incorrectly assumed that Primitive Baptists are opposed to the circulation of the gospel. While it is true that our people will emphatically confirm their position that regeneration is the direct and immediate work of the Holy Spirit, it is also believed that the gospel should be preached as doors of opportunity are opened. The Black Rock document says, “We will now call your attention to the subject of missions. Previous to stating our objections to the missions plans, we will meet some of the false charges brought against us relative to this subject, by a simple and unequivocal declaration, that we do regard as of the first importance the command given of Christ, primarily to His apostles, and through them to His ministers in every age to ‘go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature,’ and do feel an earnest desire to be found acting in obedience thereunto, as the providence of God directs our way, and opens the door of utterance for us. We also believe it to be the duty of individuals and churches to contribute according to their abilities, for the support, not only of their pastors, but also of those who go preaching the gospel of Christ among the destitute.”

The services at a Primitive Baptist church are very simple. There is singing, prayer and the preaching of God’s word. Families are together in the worship services rather than being divided into groups by age. As the pastor/teacher feeds and instructs, parents are able to discuss the messages later with their children who have heard the same sermons. Emphasis is put on the responsibility of parents to teach their children and bring them up “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” All members are encouraged to seek a personal communion with the Lord on a daily basis through prayer and study of His word, and strive for Christ-likeness in their individual lives.

In a day when much religious thought and activity has become man-centered, Primitive Baptists preach the truth of what God reveals about Himself in the inspired Scriptures. He is presented as a God of power, working His will and accomplishing His purposes. He is extolled as the God of creation to Whom all glory belongs and the one Who gives His people great joy as they delight in Him. God saves sinners according to the covenant of grace, which was ordered from before the foundation of the world.

The gospel of grace—which points to Jesus Christ as the only hope for fallen sinners—is faithfully preached. It is also recognized that, when Paul laid the foundation of grace, he then gave instruction as to how the recipients of grace should live. So, not only do Primitive Baptists believe it is important to reconfirm on a regular basis, the doctrines of man’s fallen condition, unconditional election, particular redemption, effectual calling and the preservation of the saints, they believe it necessary to teach the principles of Godly living.

Churches enjoy warm fellowship with one another, but there is no central headquarters or ruling body. Each church is governed within its own membership subject to the authority of Christ and the principles of His word. For those looking for the simplicity of New Testament Christianity, and for those who love the message of grace, a visit among the Primitive Baptists should prove to he a rewarding experience.