Proposed: New Name
- MBSG
- Jul 25
- 2 min read
I would like to propose a new name for our church, which may or may not be adopted in the future. At the same time, I encourage everyone to submit their own suggestions for consideration.
This new name would serve a few purposes:
It would merge the acronyms MBSG and MIBC into a unified identity.
It may become necessary if, in the future, we secure a permanent premises.
And finally, it allows us to reconsider our ongoing association with the name "Baptist."
A Brief Historical Context
The Baptist movement has a history spanning over 400 years — the first hundred years in Europe, and the last three hundred primarily in America. It eventually spread to other nations, such as the Philippines, where it has thrived for over a century.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the First and Second Great Awakenings brought revival across Europe and America. However, this same period also saw the rise of various cults and fragmented movements, including the Brider movement, which ultimately contributed to division within Baptist circles.
A Present Concern
Over the past decade, I’ve observed increasing division among Baptist churches, with growing emphasis on segregations such as Calvinist, Brider, and other theological camps.
This has made genuine fellowship between Baptist churches more difficult, and it has become a concern as we seek to see our Milford church continue to thrive.
Through prayerful discernment, I believe it may be time to step away from the "Baptist" name. I understand this may not sit well with everyone, and I don’t take this lightly.
What Does It Mean to Step Away?
Simply put, it means:
Not using "Baptist" in the church name.
Choosing a single-word name that inspires both believers and non-believers — a name that reignites faith and reflects our mission.
Moving away from naming patterns like Bible or Missionary, which are often tied to Brider identity.
Removing ourselves from the debate over whether other churches are Brider or non-Brider.
What About Doctrine?
Our doctrine remains unchanged. A change in name does not mean a change in belief. The two are not the same.
What About Personal Identity?
Each member is free to continue identifying as:
Baptist
Christian
Bible-believer
Biblicist
Our unity is not in the name, but in Christ, our shared faith, and our mission.
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