Expert: Bruce Gourley - 6/18/2004

Question
What are the main differences between United Methodist and Fundamentalist Baptist?

I'm not talking about church administration I'm talking doctrine.

Blessings,

Answer
Doctrinally speaking, Fundamentalist Baptists and United Methodists are somewhat varied within their respective groups, but do share some similarities.

Some Fundamentalist Baptists hold to the King James Bible only, others do not; some are pro-education, others are not; most are premillenial dispensational, but some are not; etc., etc.

Among United Methodists, a variety of Bible translations are employed, and I am unaware if one particular translation holds sway over the others.  Most Methodists are not fundamentalists, but do hold to the basics of the faith (Christ's virgin birth, resurrection and atonment; the authority of Scripture; salvation through faith by grace, etc.).  Fundamentalists tend to be more theologically dogmatic, to the point of oftentimes being legalistic on such matters as Bible translations, eschatology, political views, the exact nature of Christ's atoning work, etc., etc.).  Methodists tend to be less dogmatic, less legalistic.  

Finally, Baptists hold to believer's baptism by immersion (an important element of Baptist theology), while Methodists typically practice sprinkling, sometimes of infants (viewed as a dedication), followed by a professed confirmation of faith at an older age.  Many Methodists these days also allow immersion as an option.

I hope this helps,

-- Bruce Gourley
  www.baptistlife.com