A Necessary Consequence

<p>Is agreement on the language of Scripture sufficient to determine agreement on doctrines? Or is it possible for individuals with differing doctrines to agree on the language of Scripture? If so how can we ascertain what another truly believes? <i>A Necessary Consequence </i>is a historical study and evaluation of the necessity of using confessional language to clarify one’s beliefs based on Scripture. English Baptists in the seventeenth century witnessed the rise of antitrinitarianism. In response General Baptists used only scriptural language to discuss the Trinity thereby weakening their doctrine as antitrinitarian views were tolerated. However Particular Baptists entered the eighteenth century stronger having clearly stated their belief with confessional trinitarian language. The Salters’ Hall Debates in 1719 highlighted the divide in these two approaches. In 1720 Broadmead Church inaugurated Bristol Baptist Academy with the conviction of imparting sound confessional doctrine to its alumni.<br /></p>