Expert: Rev. Stuart Woodward - 8/30/2011

Question
I'm returning home to the Baptist church! I was a convert to the Roman Catholic Church. I have a few questions.... What bible can I use? Is it ok to have a glass of wine or beer without becoming in drunkenness? Is it ok to beleive in forms of science, as long as I know and proclaim God the creator of all things? When I commit a sin, do I just pray to Jesus to forgive, that's it? Thanks!

Answer
Hello Shawn,
Thank you for your questions. I ought to explain that I am English and minister in England and the situation in the USA (which is where I guess you are from) is slightly different.
There are different groupings of Baptists in the USA and they are all a little different from each other in how they view some of the issues you mention especially in regard to alcohol, so let me address the other matters first.
With regard to version of the bible, in England most Baptist Churches use the New International Version. Many Baptists in the USA also use this but more will use the New American Standard Bible. Some Baptist Churches still will only use the Authorised King James version of the Bible and tend to disapprove of those who do otherwise. You need to find the norm in the church you wish to attend. It is certainly not just OK but important to respect scientific understandings. Most Baptist Churches in the USA will have a fairly strict six days creation view. Some want to simply proclaim that and not have discussion on the matter whilst others are willing to enter the discussions with greater openness.
When we sin we need to come to Jesus in genuine repentance and His forgiveness is sure. Sometimes if we are battling a particularly ongoing and strong temptation it is good to seek out an experienced Christian and confess to them as well asking them to help us be accountable and win the victory.
My understanding of the USA situation is that most Baptist Churches take a strong stand against the consumption of alcohol though some take a more biblical stand of simply being against its abuse. Again you need to work out with the particular church that you wish to join what its particular stance is.
Having said all this let me now share my own (English) perspective. Essentially we believe in salvation by grace through faith. Grace frees us from legalistic observance of the law and instead places us in the situation where we seek to live right not to earn our salvation or through fear but out of loving gratitude to the God who has saved us through the blood of Jesus by grace alone. In the light of this I don't think it matters what translation of the bible you use as long as it is a good one. I believe it is entirely up to you whether you drink alcohol or not but you will want to avoid any hint of drunkenness as you will not want to displease God.
The scriptures are to be accepted and believed but there are many areas that real Christians disagree about, such as the precise understanding of creation, matters regarding the second coming of Jesus and the like. We are foolish to build barricades that exclude those who disagree with us on nuances of interpretation.
I hope these comments are of some help and I pray that God will lead you and bless you as you move forward with Him.
Stuart Woodward