Response:

Hi, I am not sure I completely understand your question. Baptists today would trace their history through both the Anabaptists and the Waldensians, though I am sure we would have our differences with both groups. In fact, it could be argued that the Anabaptist name was simply applied to groups that already carried the doctrine of the Waldensians.

Neither the Anabaptists nor the Waldensians would be considered Protestants. Both of these groups existed apart from the state churches (both Catholic and Protestant), and both suffered persecution from the established state churches. Both groups believed in salvation by grace, and both believed in baptism by immersion for believers only. They held to the Bible as their authority (as opposed to church councils, papal decrees, etc.), and had independent, autonomous churches as opposed to religious hierarchies.

I agree with you that it is troubling that so much of Christianity traces its history to the heresy of Catholicism. Christ said the He would build His church, and the gates of Hell would not prevail against it (Matt 16:18). I find it hard to believe that Christ's church turned into Catholicism, and had to be rescued by the Protestant Reformation. This is especially hard to believe in light of some of the strange teachings of the reformers, and also in light of their persecution of groups like the Waldensians and Anabaptists.

If your question deals with what TYPE of Baptist church, I would say that the Independent, Fundamental Baptists are the ones that you should look for. Again, as a rule, Independent, Fundamental Baptist churches believe in the inspiration, inerrancy, and complete authority of the Bible. They do not establish hierarchies and conventions, but rather have independent churches. They practice separation from false teaching, and attempt to separate themselves from worldly behavior as well. Certainly not all churches that call themselves Independent, Fundamental practice these things. But, for the most part, these are the churches that continue in the tradition of the Anabaptists.

Hope this helps. May the Lord bless you.

By Dr Mark Montgomery Ambassador Baptist Church 1926 Babcock Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15209 (412)477-3210