What is the Southern Baptist Convention?

I remember in high school, when I really did not enjoy learning, almost failing a book report. It was my senior year, last semester of school, graduation in full view. I was working 30-40 hours a week on the side, which wrecked my motivation and free time. Therefore, I did what any irresponsible person would do…I read the covers, the start of the chapters and the last page. Then I fashioned together the vaguest book report given in the history of the world. My teacher knew that I had not done my research, and thus, she was ready to bury me where I stood.

Fast forward about 10 years. I was taking a class at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. By this time, I loved learning and was ready to tackle each class with full energy. In my hand was a copy of “The Baptist Story.” As a church member, I loosely understood the Baptist denomination but had not really studied its past or impact. Now as a seminary student, my eyes were opened to a history of mission and collaboration unprecedented in protestant history. As I put down the book, I can still remember thinking, “Why don’t more people know about the SBC?”

Fast forward again, now the pastor of a SBC church, how can I show the heritage and continued work of Southern Baptists for the kingdom of God? This will be the first of a few blogs to help you better understand the Southern Baptist Convention.

The Convention is not a ruling authority in the life of local churches. Unlike the Catholic or Presbyterian churches that are led by others outside of the local church, the SBC believes in and operates on voluntary cooperation and fellowship. Each SBC church operates in complete autonomy, which provides space to cooperate as they desire. The SBC is comprised of nearly 47,000 Baptist churches that align theologically and missionally in Christ worship. One could find the core of beliefs outlined in the Baptist Faith and Message 2000.

It is clear that churches can do more for the kingdom together rather than separate. This belief has mobilized SBC churches to develop the world’s largest and most organized missionary organization, the International Mission Board. Because of the generosity and sending of SBC churches, more than 3,500 missionaries are deployed to places with little or no gospel access. The International Mission Board seeks to share the gospel, make disciples, plant churches, and raise up leaders.

As we just scratch the surface of SBC life, I pray that you will look into the history of Baptists and how God has helped us partner to make a gospel impact around the world. Look ahead to the coming blogs that will detail more information about the SBC, our work, and ways that our church can partner ahead.

-Pastor John Richardson