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Reformed Baptist vs Evangelical Overview

Oct 8, 2024

Differences Between Reformed Baptist and Evangelical Denomination

Overview

  • Evangelicalism:
    • Not a denomination but an overarching collection of multiple denominations.
    • Defines any denomination or individual that preaches an Orthodox Christian Gospel.
    • Key belief: Salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.

Evangelicals vs. Roman Catholics

  • Roman Catholics:
    • Do not share the same gospel as Evangelical Christians.
    • Council of Trent anathematized the Evangelical Gospel.
    • Cooperation with Catholics is possible on cultural issues but not on evangelism.

Understanding Evangelicalism

  • Considered as a large category under Christianity along with Catholics and other groups.
  • Includes various denominations: Baptists, Presbyterians, Anglicans, Lutherans, etc.

Reformed Baptist vs. Calvinistic Baptist

  • Reformed Baptist:

    • Confessional, adhering to historic confessions like the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession.
    • Examples: Voddie Baucham, James White, Joel Webben.
  • Calvinistic Baptist:

    • Holds to Calvinist principles but not confessional.
    • Example: John MacArthur.

Doctrinal Differences

  • Sabbatarianism:

    • Reformed Baptists hold to Christian Sabbatarianism, viewing the Sabbath as moral law.
  • Covenant Theology vs. Dispensationalism:

    • Reformed Baptists adhere to covenant theology.
    • Calvinistic Baptists like John MacArthur may lean towards dispensationalism.
  • Eschatology:

    • Covenant theologians are typically Amillennial or Postmillennial.
    • Dispensationalists are usually Premillennial.

Evangelicalism as an Overarching Banner

  • Describes gospel-believing Christians across many denominations.