“If Anyone Suffer as a Baptist?”

Is there anywhere in the Bible it says, “If anyone suffers as a Baptist, let him not be ashamed?” No. Does it say, “The disciples were first called Methodists at Antioch?” Nope. Or, have you ever read where it says, “You almost persuade me to become a Pentecostal?” Never.

The Bible does say, “If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed …” (1 Pet. 4:16). “The disciples were first called Christians at Antioch” (Acts 11:26). “You almost persuade me to become a Christian” (Acts 26:28).

The word of God also says, “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God …” (1 Pet. 4:11). When men call themselves by denominational names, they do not speak as the oracles of God; they speak by the authority of man, not heaven (cp. Matt. 21:23-27). Doing this causes one’s religion to be vain, worthless (Matt. 15:7-9). So, why do it?

Denominational names bring about division. Dropping these names would be a good first step in bringing about unity among those who believe in Jesus (Jn. 17:20-23). Instead of one saying, “I am a Baptist,” another, “I am a Methodist,” and another, “I am a Pentecostal,” each could say, “I am a Christian” (cp. 1 Cor. 1:12; 3:1-4).

Denominations, their names, organizations, and peculiar teachings are totally foreign to the New Testament of Jesus Christ. If men seek to please God, then why do they adopt that which is not found in God’s will, His word (Jn. 16:13; 1 Cor. 2:10-13)? Ask your preacher why your church uses a name not found in the Bible. Ask him why it is necessary to call yourselves Baptists or Methodists or Pentecostals. Ask him if it would be acceptable to give up all such names and simply be called Christians? If not, why not? If would like to study further on this or any other Bible subject, contact us.

Steven F. Deaton

Bible Lectureship

(March 17-20, 2024)

prayer study book

We would love to have you as our guest! 

Register below for the event, and we’ll also send you a prayer e-devotional. Our gift to you.