What Would Jesus Say to the Baptists?



Holding Fast to the Word—But Not Forgetting the Weightier Matters

The Baptist movement, with its many branches—Southern Baptists, Independent Baptists, Free Will Baptists, Missionary Baptists, and others—has left a powerful mark on Christianity. Known for its unwavering commitment to the authority of Scripture, believer’s baptism, and passionate evangelism, the Baptist tradition has long been one of the strongest voices calling the world to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

But what if Jesus stood before a Baptist congregation today? What would He affirm? What would He challenge? What would He lovingly correct?

Let’s imagine.

Faithfulness to the Word

Jesus might begin with a commendation:
“You have honored My Word. You have stood firm on the authority of Scripture in a time when many are compromising. You have not shied away from proclaiming the gospel clearly and boldly. You have cherished My teachings, upheld baptism by immersion as a symbol of new life, and sent missionaries to the ends of the earth.”

Indeed, few denominations have emphasized Bible study and preaching as much as Baptists. The typical Baptist church centers its worship around the Word of God. The pulpit is prominent. Sermons are expected to be expository, and the Bible is the final authority in all matters of doctrine and practice. Many Baptists can quote Scripture readily and have taught generations to memorize the Word from childhood.

This is not insignificant. In a time when biblical literacy is in decline, Baptists have stood as watchmen on the wall, holding the lantern of truth. Jesus would commend their faithfulness—just as He commended the church in Philadelphia in Revelation 3:8:

"I know your works. See, I have set before you an open door, and no one can shut it; for you have a little strength, have kept My word, and have not denied My name."

The Power of Evangelism and Missions

Another point of affirmation would be the Baptist passion for evangelism. The Great Commission is not a forgotten phrase in Baptist churches. Vacation Bible Schools, door-to-door evangelism, gospel tracts, mission boards, and short-term missions have long been a hallmark of Baptist efforts.

Southern Baptists in particular have built one of the largest missionary-sending agencies in the world. From rural villages to bustling cities, Baptist missionaries have brought the Good News to millions.

Jesus might say:
“You have gone. You have preached. You have baptized. And I am pleased.”

But I Have This Against You…

But Jesus, full of both grace and truth, would not stop with commendation. He always calls His people to deeper love, purer hearts, and more faithful obedience.

"Woe to you… You give a tenth… but you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness."
—Matthew 23:23 (NIV)

Jesus confronted the religious leaders of His day for focusing on external obedience while neglecting the internal transformation that flows from love and humility. Might He say the same to some Baptists today?

In many Baptist circles, especially in America, cultural conservatism has been equated with biblical righteousness. While standing for biblical truth is essential, it must be accompanied by the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

There have been times when Baptists have fought so hard to be right that they’ve forgotten to be loving. The Bible warns us that truth without love becomes a clanging cymbal (1 Corinthians 13:1). Jesus might urge Baptists to ask:
Are you known more for what you're against or for the love you show?

The Danger of Division

Jesus also prayed that His followers would be one, even as He and the Father are one (John 17:21). Yet, the Baptist movement has splintered again and again—sometimes over doctrine, but often over culture, preferences, and control.

Local church autonomy is a sacred value among Baptists, and rightly so. It protects churches from outside interference and allows them to be led by the Holy Spirit. But autonomy can sometimes turn into isolation and pride. Congregations may refuse to cooperate, pastors may be ousted for minor disagreements, and fellowship can be broken over personal offenses rather than spiritual concerns.

Jesus might say:
“You are My body. You are not independent from Me or each other. The world will know you are Mine not by your doctrinal statements, but by your love for one another.”

Women in Ministry and the Role of Grace

Another area Jesus may address is how Baptists have interpreted and applied gender roles. Many Baptist churches have been hesitant or outright opposed to allowing women to serve in roles beyond children’s ministry or music. While each church interprets Scripture through its own lens, Jesus often lifted up women in His ministry—teaching them, honoring their faith, and appearing first to them after His resurrection.

He might gently ask:
“Have you used My Word to empower others—or to fence them out? Have you listened for My voice in those you’ve overlooked?”

Return to the First Love

Ultimately, Jesus’ message to the Baptist church would be one of deep love and patient correction. He desires not just doctrinal purity, but passionate intimacy with Him.

As in Revelation 2:4-5, He might say:

“Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works…”

Have some Baptist churches become more about programs than presence? More about structure than surrender? Jesus wants hearts that burn with love—not just heads filled with knowledge.

A Call to Renewal

To the Baptists, Jesus might leave this message ringing in their hearts:

“You are My people. You are salt and light. But do not forget that the world is watching—not only what you preach, but how you love. Preach the Word. Baptize the repentant. But above all, let mercy flow like a river and justice like a mighty stream.”

The Baptist church has a vital role to play in these last days. But that role must be filled with grace and truth, not just one or the other. Jesus does not want a brittle church—but a bold one, full of love, humility, and compassion.

Let us listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches. 

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