FAITH & PRACTICE
The Free Will Baptist Treatise
A denominational guide to doctrine, Christian conduct, church life, and cooperative ministry.
A SHARED CONFESSION
What Is the Treatise?
The Free Will Baptist Treatise is the principal denominational document used to explain the faith and practices commonly held by churches within the National Association of Free Will Baptists.
It is not a substitute for Scripture and does not govern the local church as an authority above the Bible. It is a careful, revisable summary that helps churches describe their shared convictions and cooperate with theological clarity.
01
The Holy Scriptures
The Treatise begins with Scripture because the Bible is the foundation for every Christian doctrine and practice. Free Will Baptists affirm the inspiration, truthfulness, authority, and sufficiency of God’s written Word.
Read alongside: Psalm 19:7–11; 2 Timothy 3:14–17; 2 Peter 1:19–21.
02
The Triune God and His Saving Work
The Treatise confesses one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and explains creation, providence, the person and work of Jesus Christ, the ministry of the Holy Spirit, human sin, atonement, repentance, faith, justification, regeneration, adoption, sanctification, and perseverance.
At the center is the gracious work of God accomplished through Christ and received through repentant faith.
03
The Church and Its Ordinances
The Treatise addresses the nature and mission of the church, the responsibilities of members and ministers, local church government, worship, discipline, and the ordinances historically recognized by Free Will Baptists.
Because congregations are locally governed, particular schedules and methods of observance are handled by the local church under Scripture.
04
Christian Ethics and Daily Life
Christian doctrine is inseparable from Christian conduct. The Treatise applies biblical principles to personal holiness, family life, stewardship, speech, integrity, compassion, public witness, and moral responsibility.
These applications call believers to honor Christ in every area of life rather than separating Sunday worship from everyday obedience.
05
Cooperative Ministry
The Treatise also explains how autonomous churches may voluntarily cooperate through associations, boards, commissions, departments, and agencies.
This structure supports shared efforts in missions, education, publishing, church planting, pastoral development, and other ministries while recognizing the authority and responsibility of each local congregation.
06
How to Read the Treatise
Read it with an open Bible. Follow the Scripture references, consider the full context of each passage, and distinguish between timeless biblical doctrine and organizational procedures that may be revised.
Use it as a guide for study and conversation. Questions should lead to deeper engagement with Scripture and, when helpful, discussion with the pastor and church leadership.
OFFICIAL DOCUMENT
Read the Current Free Will Baptist Treatise
Use the official National Association page to access the current document and available purchase options.
OFFICIAL DOWNLOAD
Free Will Baptist Treatise
Open the official Treatise page maintained by the National Association of Free Will Baptists.
LOCAL SUMMARY
What We Believe
Read Pine Hills’ concise summary of the biblical convictions that guide our church.
QUESTIONS ARE WELCOME
Study the Faith With Us
We welcome thoughtful questions and encourage every person to examine Christian teaching carefully in the light of God’s Word.