Should we let a denominational group borrow our baptistery?

Question:

Hello, Mr. Hamilton,

I hope this finds you well.

Every morning on my way to work I listen to your sermons. I greatly appreciate the work you have put into your program, as I have learned so much listening to them over the last couple of years.

I belong to the church of Christ. Recently, one of the men of our congregation was asked by a local Baptist pastor if their church could retain the use of our baptistery as theirs was out of service. When discussing this matter during the men's meeting some were ok with it and others were not. Myself, I did not see anything wrong with loaning the baptistery. My view is that the baptistery is just a part of the building, not part of the church. Others were opposed, worried about how it would look to other congregations. And quite honestly, I can see their point as well.

If you don’t mind me asking, I would love to hear your view on this matter.

Thank you.

Answer:

The vast majority of Baptists do not see baptism as necessary for salvation. They use baptism as a way to join their local church.

It is true that the building is not the church, but what the church allows its building to be used for gives the impression to the world around that the congregation approves of the use. "Providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men" (II Corinthians 8:21). We have to keep in mind that others are watching us. How can the group there argue that the type of baptism performed by the Baptists is wrong when they help the Baptist gain members?

There is a strong desire in people to avoid conflict. They want to say that every group calling itself "Christian" is the same. But it isn't the truth. The Lord's people are not a denomination (I Corinthians 1:10), nor can they be involved in promoting denominationalism.

Response:

Thank you!

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