by Benjamin Keach
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
"A Short Confession of Faith" by Benjamin Keach is a succinct yet profound articulation of the core doctrinal beliefs held by the Baptist tradition, particularly those churches that affirm personal election and final perseverance. Originally published as a more accessible version of a larger, more detailed confession, this work distills the essentials of faith into an easily comprehensible format, making it an excellent resource for both newcomers to the faith and long-standing believers seeking to reaffirm their doctrinal foundations.
The confession is structured around 39 articles, each dealing with significant theological topics such as the nature of God and the Holy Trinity, the decrees of God, creation, providence, the authority and role of the Scriptures, original sin, and Christ as the Mediator. Further articles delve into the ecclesiastical and eschatological beliefs of Baptists, including views on baptism, the Lord's Supper, church governance, and eternal judgment. Each article is crafted with clarity, providing scriptural references that anchor the doctrines in biblical truth.
This confession not only serves as a doctrinal reference but also as a spiritual guide, helping believers understand and articulate their faith in a world that increasingly demands coherent and reasoned expressions of religious belief. Keach's work is particularly notable for its emphasis on the experiential aspects of faith—such as effectual calling, justification, and sanctification—underscoring the transformational nature of true Christian doctrine.
About Benjamin Keach: Benjamin Keach (1640-1704) was a prominent Baptist preacher, theologian, and hymn writer known for his influential role in developing Baptist theology and practice in the 17th century. He was a staunch advocate of the particular Baptist movement in England, which emphasized a Calvinistic interpretation of Christian doctrine. Keach's works, including sermons, catechisms, and confessions, were foundational in the establishment of Baptist beliefs, particularly regarding the proper subjects and mode of baptism and the role of congregational singing in worship. His legacy includes not only his theological writings but also his contribution to the acceptance of hymn singing in Baptist churches, enhancing the worship practices that continue to resonate within the denomination today.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
To the Reader
The Articles of Faith
Of God, and of the Holy Trinity.
Of the Decrees of God.
Of Creation.
Of God's Providence.
Of the Holy Scriptures.
Of Original Sin.
Of Man's Free-Will.
Of Christ the Mediator.
Of the Offices of Christ.
Of Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation.
Of Effectual Calling.
Of Justification.
Of Adoption.
Of Sanctification.
Of the Souls of Men at Death.
Of the Law.
Of Faith and Repentance.
Of the Means of Grace.
Of Baptism.
Of a True Church.
Of Laying on of Hands.
Of the Lord's Supper.
Of Church-Officers.
Of Prayer.
Of Singing of Psalms, &c.
Of the Christian Sabbath.
Of Ministers, and their Maintenance.
Of the First Covenant.
Of the New and Second Covenant.
Of Election.
Of Final Perseverance.
Of the Resurrection.
Of Eternal Judgment.
Of Marriages.
Of Civil Magistrates.
Of Lawful Oaths.
Of Personal Propriety.
Postscript