COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers about Scripture, salvation, free will, perseverance, ordinances, church government, and our denominational identity.
QUESTIONS ARE WELCOME
Seeking Understanding With an Open Bible
Christian faith is not strengthened by avoiding sincere questions. We encourage visitors, new believers, parents, students, and longtime members to examine every teaching carefully in the light of Scripture.
These answers are introductory rather than exhaustive. For a fuller explanation, follow the related resource links or contact Pine Hills.
01
What is the final authority for Pine Hills?
The Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are our final written authority for faith and practice. Denominational statements, the catechism, the Treatise, and the church covenant are valuable only as they faithfully summarize and apply biblical teaching.
Key Scriptures: 2 Timothy 3:14–17; 2 Peter 1:19–21.
02
What does “Free Will Baptist” mean?
The name emphasizes that God graciously offers salvation through Jesus Christ to all people and calls each person to repent and believe. Human response does not earn salvation; salvation is entirely the gift of grace received through faith.
03
Do Free Will Baptists believe salvation is by works?
No. We believe salvation is by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, not by human merit or religious achievement. Good works follow salvation as the fruit of grace and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Key Scriptures: Romans 3:21–28; Ephesians 2:8–10; Titus 3:4–8.
04
Who may be saved?
The Gospel invitation is genuinely extended to all. Everyone who repents and trusts in Jesus Christ may receive forgiveness and everlasting life. God does not delight in the destruction of sinners but calls people everywhere to repentance.
Key Scriptures: John 3:16; Acts 17:30; Romans 10:9–13; 2 Peter 3:9.
05
What do you believe about perseverance?
Believers are kept and strengthened by the grace of God and are called to continue in faith. Free Will Baptists take seriously both the promises of divine help and the biblical warnings against deliberate unbelief and apostasy.
Our confidence is not in our own strength, but in Christ; our response is to abide in Him, use the means of grace, and encourage one another faithfully.
Key Scriptures: John 15:1–10; Romans 8:31–39; Hebrews 3:12–14; Jude 20–25.
06
Do Free Will Baptists believe in the Trinity?
Yes. We believe in one true and living God who eternally exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three distinct Persons, one God, equal in divine glory and worthy of worship.
07
What do you believe about baptism?
We practice the baptism of those who personally confess faith in Jesus Christ, ordinarily by immersion, in obedience to Christ and as a public identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
Key Scriptures: Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 2:38–41; Romans 6:3–5.
08
What ordinances do Free Will Baptists recognize?
The denominational Treatise identifies baptism, the Lord’s Supper, and the washing of the saints’ feet. These practices point believers toward union with Christ, remembrance of His saving work, fellowship, humility, and service.
For information about how and when Pine Hills observes each practice, please speak with our pastor or church leadership.
09
What is local church autonomy?
Local church autonomy means that each congregation is responsible under Christ and Scripture for its worship, membership, leadership, discipline, ministry, property, and mission. No denominational office functions as a bishop over the local church.
10
Why participate in associations?
Autonomous churches may cooperate voluntarily without surrendering local responsibility. Associations allow churches to work together in missions, education, publishing, church planting, pastoral development, compassion ministry, and other shared efforts.
11
Are Free Will Baptists the only true Christians?
No. We gladly recognize the wider body of Christ and rejoice wherever the Gospel is faithfully proclaimed. Our denominational identity expresses real convictions and a shared heritage, but it does not place our label above the lordship of Jesus Christ.
12
How can I learn more or ask a question?
Begin with our What We Believe page, explore the official resources linked throughout this library, attend a worship service, or contact Pine Hills. Honest questions are welcome, and we would be glad to speak with you.
CONTINUE LEARNING
Explore Our Beliefs Library
Go deeper through Pine Hills’ beliefs page and trusted Free Will Baptist resources.
START HERE
What We Believe
Read the biblical convictions that guide Pine Hills in worship, preaching, discipleship, and church life.
OUR HERITAGE
What Is a Free Will Baptist?
Learn about Free Will Baptist history, doctrine, local church life, and cooperative ministry.
LEARN THE FAITH
Free Will Baptist Catechism
Discover a practical question-and-answer tool for teaching Christian doctrine to children and adults.
FAITH & PRACTICE
The Free Will Baptist Treatise
Understand the denominational document that explains Free Will Baptist doctrine, ethics, and organization.
LIFE TOGETHER
Church Covenant
Explore the commitments Free Will Baptists make to God, one another, the church, and Christ’s mission.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Beliefs FAQ
Find clear answers about salvation, free will, perseverance, ordinances, church government, and more.
STILL HAVE A QUESTION?
We Would Be Glad to Hear From You
Send us your question or visit Pine Hills. We want to serve you with clarity, humility, and biblical faithfulness.