WHY BAPTISTS DO NOT OBSERVE LENT

Here are some reasons given my Dr. M. James Hollowood worthy of your consideration.

Baptists are not liturgical people and have definite reasons for omitting the observance of Lent.  The first of these is the fact that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is celebrated by Baptists, not only on Easter, but every Sunday of the year.  This is why Sunday is called "The Lord's Day".  The only possible explanation for worshipping on Sunday instead of Saturday is that Sunday worship is an observance of the resurrection of the Lord!  Baptists are more conscious of worshipping a risen and victorious Christ than perhaps some others.  It would be very difficult for us to enter into the feelings of deprivation, of sorrow, and of remorse which many others dwell upon during Lent.  We are filled with the joy of the knowledge that Christ is risen and we serve a living Saviour.  Jesus is no longer on the cross but rather victorious over death, sin, and the grave. 

Second, Baptists believe in an experiential religion rather than a formal or institutional religion.  We believe that the Christian life should be lived all the time, not just a few weeks of the year.  Someone has well said, "If it is wrong during Lent, it is always wrong."  We preach and teach against the indulgence of the flesh at all times.  The Bible states "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."  (Romans 8:6)

Third, Baptists reject the idea that self-denial which is institutionally enforced can enhance the worthiness of the individual.  Popular ideas about Lent suggest that the observance of the Lenten period with self-denial brings the observer closer to Christ and makes him more worthy of receiving forgiveness and eternal life.  As Bible believing Baptists, however, we are very conscious of the teaching of Scripture which says:  "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God,  not of works,  lest any man should boast."  (Ephesians 2:8,9)

Finally, Baptists believe in Christ centered living the year around.  Baptist churches offer a full program of appointments for worship and study every Sunday of the year.  On week-nights also, Baptist churches offer opportunity for Bible Study, prayer, and evangelism.

A Baptist who feels he needs the spiritual experience of observing Lent may well need a revival.  Let Him observe Lent by placing Christ first in all parts of His life.  Then, let him celebrate Easter by promising to live his (Lenten) vows to the glory of Christ throughout the entire year.

-Written by G. Archer Weniger