In the Philippines, Republic Act 11897, also known as the “National Baptist Day Act,” declares the second Thursday of January each year as a special working holiday. This recognition honors the contributions of Baptists to our nation’s spiritual and social development.
The Baptist movement in the Philippines began in May 1900, when Rev. Eric Lund, a Swedish Baptist missionary, arrived in Iloilo together with Braulio Manikan from Aklan, who had been baptized in Barcelona, Spain, in 1898.
Their partnership led to the establishment of the first Baptist church in Iloilo – Jaro Baptist Church later renamed as Jaro Evangelical Church.
Later, American Baptist missionaries arrived and, together with Filipinos, founded local churches, schools like Central Philippine University and Filamer Christian University, and hospitals like Capiz Emmanuel Hospital and Iloilo Mission Hospital.
As we celebrate National Baptist Day on Jan. 9, let us reflect on the rich heritage and lessons of being a Baptist—principles that guide us in faith, service, and community.
First, embrace the Bible as the sole authority for faith and practice.
One of the defining principles of being a Baptist is our commitment to the Bible as the ultimate authority. This means we turn to God’s Word as the foundation for our beliefs and actions.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” Historically, Baptists have championed literacy and education to ensure everyone could read and interpret the Bible.
Let us ask ourselves a question: How can we deepen our commitment to studying and living out the Word of God in our daily lives?
Second, uphold the priesthood of all believers.
The Baptist faith teaches that every believer has direct access to God through Jesus Christ. This doctrine is powerfully illustrated in Matthew 27:51, which describes the moment of Jesus’ death: “At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split.”
The tearing of the curtain signifies the removal of barriers between God and humanity, emphasizing that we no longer need an earthly mediator to approach God.
This doctrine is also affirmed in 1 Peter 2:9, which declares, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.”
Historically, this belief fueled the Baptist emphasis on personal responsibility in faith and the church’s collective decision-making through congregational governance.
Third, defend religious liberty for all.
Baptists have long been advocates of religious freedom, understanding it as a God-given right. Galatians 5:1 declares, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.”
This principle guided Baptists to promote separation of church and state, ensuring that faith is a matter of personal conviction. Our history challenges us to protect the freedom of worship, not just for ourselves but for all people.
As we commemorate National Baptist Day, may we celebrate these lessons of being a Baptist. Let us stand firm on the authority of Scripture, embrace our roles as a royal priesthood, and champion religious freedom.
These principles remind us of the rich heritage we have received and the responsibility to live out our faith with conviction and love. | NWI
