Announcement: ‘International Baptist Church of Tampere’ is now ‘Grace Baptist Church’ (‘Armon Baptistiseurakunta’ in Finnish).
Why a new name?
With our renewed focus on developing the Finnish-speaking ministry of the church it became apparent that we needed a name that would work well in both English and Finnish. Therefore, in September 2018 the church unanimously decided to change its name from ‘International Baptist Church’ to ‘Grace Baptist Church – Armon Baptistiseurakunta’ in order to have a name that works better in both languages and also reflects our central commitment to the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24).
Why ‘Grace’ Baptist Church?
‘Grace’ is one the most foundational Christian words as it reminds us of the grace of God revealed in the gospel of Christ. It rightly communicates that we are a church focused on proclaiming the biblical gospel clearly and accurately.
It accurately communicates our theological beliefs as a church, since ‘Grace’ has often been used as a church name by Calvinistic Baptist churches like ours. This stems from our belief in God’s sovereignty in salvation, theologically described as the ‘Doctrines of Grace.’
The word ‘Grace’ also reflects our connection and agreement in doctrine with Grace Community Church (pastored by John MacArthur) and Grace Ministries International, which is the missionary organisation that helps support the ministry of our church.
“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” Acts 20:24, ESV