Regular Baptist is a collective term used to refer to a number of denominations that are moderately Calvinistic, and largely in the Southern United States.
Although there are differences between one Regular Baptist denomination and another, the Regular Baptists represent the theology of the original English Baptists before they split into Particular and General Baptist factions, one taking a strict Calvinist stance, the other Arminian. The Regular Baptists developed in the United States, but were influenced by the Particular and General Baptist churches.
The number of Regular Baptists outgrew the General (Free) Baptists in the early 1700s, as many General Baptists became Regular Baptists. By 1790, most of the Baptist churches in the United States were Regular Baptists. Their number dropped considerably in the early 1800s, however, when most of the Regular Baptist churches merged with the Separate Baptists to form the United Baptists. Some have continued to refer to themselves as Regular Baptists, though.
The General Association of Regular Baptist Churches split from the American Baptist Convention in 1932, largely over modernistic tendencies and teachings by the ABC, including the denial of the historic principle of autonomy for local congregations, and the control of missions work by the Convention. The GARBC follows a fellowship rather than a denominational model, in which local churches are free to act independently in all matters, while the Association exists for fellowship purposes.
The Old Regular Baptists are found largely in the Appalachian region of the United States. When the majority of Regular Baptists merged with the Separatists in the early 19th century, this group began a series of name changes, from Regular Baptist to Regular United, Regular Primitive, Regular Baptist, and Old Regular, as they are now known. Some Old Regular churches originated from other associations and groups.
The theology of the Old Regular Baptists is that of election by grace, although there are differences of opinion within the group concerning election and predestination. The doctrine of Old Regular Baptists can range from absolute predestination to the belief that people are free moral agents, with most holding a view that is somewhere in between.
Some consider the Old Regulars to be a branch of the Primitive Baptists that hold to a stricter order but were more liberal in doctrine. There have been a number of splits within the Old Order Baptists over the years, some forming other Regular Baptist associations.
Union Baptists began during the American Civil War, as churches and associations were torn apart over secession, war, and reconstruction. Union Baptist groups arose in the border areas of Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Today, there are no known churches of this small denomination in any other areas. There are no significant differences in theology or doctrine between the Union Baptists and the Regular Baptists.
Additionally, there are several associations of independent Regular Baptists, which can be found throughout the country. Although their doctrine may differ wildly, the independent churches tend to be conservative, but closer to Arminian than Calvinist.
Web sites listed in this category should relate to denominations, associations, or fellowships that either refer to themselves as Regular Baptists or that have a clear relationship, historical or doctrinal, with the Regular Baptist churches. Sites representing local congregations or churches should be listed in the appropriate Local & Global category.
Recommended Resources
An Old Regular Baptist of Jesus Christ
Created by Daryl Stone, who grew up in an Old Regular Baptist church and continues to be a member of a Regular Baptist congregation, the site offers the author’s experiences and views on Christian doctrine, biblical theology, matters of faith, and other biblical topics. A mission statement, statement of faith, articles of faith, and links to videos of several Regular Baptist sermons and songs are included.
https://regularbaptist.net/
Indian Bottom Association of Old Regular Baptist Churches of Christ
Based in Sassafras, in Knott County, Kentucky, the association includes churches from Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia, although the majority of its churches are in Kentucky. A church directory, a list of ministers, and association officers are put forth, along with its constitution, articles of faith, rules of decorum, and circular letters. Minutes can be downloaded from the site, and music files are included.
http://www.oldregularbaptist.com/
Minnesota Association of Regular Baptist Churches
Headquartered in Winnebago, the MARBC is a fellowship of independent, autonomous Baptist churches throughout Minnesota, which is partnered with the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches. Its leadership and ministries are set forth, and an overview of its church planting services, a calendar of programs and events, and administrative contacts are included. An archive of photographs, newsletters, and sermons is presented.
http://marbc.org/
Northeast Regular Baptist Fellowship of Churches
The NRBFC is a fellowship of churches in eastern New York State and New England, who have joined together for fellowship, encouragement, edification, and evangelism. Its constitution, confession of faith, and resolutions are published to the site, along with its membership policies, a list of affiliated churches, and administrative contacts. Conference dates and other events are posted to the site.
http://www.nrbfc.org/
Ohio Association of Regular Baptist Churches
The OARBC is an association of independent, autonomous Baptist churches that share a doctrinal statement, which is highlighted here, along with its beliefs, leadership and organizational structure, and a calendar of programs and events. Member churches may be found by fellowship, region of the state, city, or church name, and its church planting services, camp programs, Bible institute, and other ministries are highlighted.
http://www.oarbc.org/
The General Association of Regular Baptist Churches (GARBC) is a voluntary fellowship of churches that share a common doctrine. Its official website presents its beliefs and constitution, leadership, and a library of downloadable materials, including historical literature and resolutions. A number of resources for churches are discussed, such as consultation, pastoral support, and publications. Book reviews, statements on doctrinal issues, and network blogs are included.
http://www.garbc.org/
Founded as the publishing arm of the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches, the publishing and distribution company provides church educational resources, such as Sunday School curriculum, ministry training materials, children’s ministry material, Bible study texts, books, and other resources to churches, ministries, and members of the GARBC, Its products and materials are featured online, and may be purchased through the site.
http://www.rbpstore.org/
The Old Regular Baptist, Union Church, and My Family
Jeff Little offers his understanding and views of the Old Regular Baptists, stating that much of the information found on the Internet is misleading or wrong. He presents a history of the Old Regular Baptists, including its heritage in the Colonies and the United States, the Union Old Regular Baptist Church, and the text of circular letters of the Union Association, as well as its articles of faith. Photos of his family and church are included.
https://oldregularbaptist.weebly.com/
