Ethics and Community
The Baptist view of the church is fundamental to both its theology and its practices, and is of one of the core elements that distinctively shape the tradition.
The leadership of a Baptist church usually consists of one or more ordained, professional ministers or "pastors," as well as a board consisting of elected members of the congregation and some of the pastoral staff.
Principles of Moral Thought and Action
The ways in which Baptists approach moral thought and action reflect their emphasis upon the Bible, particularly on the New Testament, as well as their consistent emphasis on individual responsibility.
Vision for Society
Baptists maintain that societies best serve their members when societies are ordered in accord with God's will as revealed in the Bible. This includes the separation of Church and state but not the exclusion of religion from the public arena.
Gender and Sexuality
Historically, Baptists have held to views of gender and sexuality that are consistent with Protestant views in general. More recently, as with other Protestant traditions, a significantly increased diversity of views has emerged.