Expert: Mrs. Priscilla Lyons - 4/21/2011

Question
Was "John the Baptist" a member of the Baptist church? -Matthew 3:1.

Answer
Sorry about the confusion, Glen.  I thought you were joking because there weren't any Christian churches, Baptist or otherwise, when John the Baptist was alive.  As I mentioned earlier--before Jesus died to pay for sins, there were temporary animal sacrifices that covered sins, but only when sin was removed by the death of Jesus, could God live in us.  Thus Christians are the temple of the Holy Ghost (I Cor.6:19), gathering together (Hebrews 10:25) in physical churches such as a Baptist church.
   Baptist churches began after the Reformation, as those who believed the Bible about Baptism, separated from those who practiced infant baptism.
   Not to discount what we owe Martin Luther for the Reformation, we are still learning and growing in understanding and applying the Word of God to our individual lives.  So, while Baptist churches disagree with Martin Luther about baptism, we recognize that God works in different ways and accomplishes different things at different times, so we are thankful for all Christians, Baptist or not.  
   You can have a wonderful day and forever through Jesus Christ as your Lord, whether you are Baptist or not.
   Sincerely,
   Priscilla
P.S. Hope this is more clear.