Southern Baptists
The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) ranks among the world’s largest Christian denominations and is the largest Protestant body in the United States. Founded in Georgia in the years preceding the Civil War, the denomination remains centralized in the South, but claims member churches throughout the nation. Since its inception, the denomination has faced internal and external tension over a bevy of social issues—notably slavery, racism, missions, homosexuality, and women in ministry—but always central to its theology has been the traditional Baptist doctrine of believer’s baptism. During the first decade of the 21st century, the SBC was recognized as leader in humanitarian aid for its response to a series of regional natural disasters.
Featured Articles
Why are so many African Americans attracted to a church that was once identified with white racism?
Taking the Lord’s Name in Vain Without SwearingInstitutions may break the third commandment to excuse their abuse.
After Annual Meeting, Southern Baptists Begin the Hard Work of Abuse ReformSurvivors sensed a godly shift as messengers approved plans and their new president put sexual predators “on notice.”
Saddleback Female Pastors Debate Raises Bigger Questions for the SBCEven without a decision on whether to disfellowship Rick Warren’s megachurch, Southern Baptists are left wondering about where a denomination of independent churches draws its boundary lines.
In Another Win for Abuse Reform, SBC Elects Bart Barber as PresidentTexas pastor beats Conservative Baptist Network–endorsed Tom Ascol in a runoff.
Southern Baptists Overwhelmingly Approve Abuse Reforms, Public DatabaseA month after groundbreaking report, SBC creates another task force to oversee reform plans: “Without action, there isn’t repentance.”español
Southern Baptists Prep for Annual Meeting With Heavy Hearts, Cautious HopeIt was a fight to get the landmark abuse investigation to happen. Now, will the denomination be able to overcome divides to enact reforms?
Half of Americans Rule Out Pentecostal ChurchesSurvey finds nondenominational churches have the least baggage in people's minds.
Abuse in the Church and the Road to JerichoIt wasn't the robbers Jesus castigated in the Parable of the Good Samaritan. It was the religious leaders.
SBC Task Force Asks for ‘Ministry Check’ Website, Other Reforms to Stop Sexual AbuseChurches and state conventions would not be required to use resources.
When Churches Become MafiasThe recent SBC abuse report shows that churches often prioritize tribal unity and safety over “divisive” truth.españolPortuguês简体中文Indonesian繁體中文
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