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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

  • Southern Baptist Surprise!
    Southern Baptist Surprise!Subscriber Access Only
    Why are so many African Americans attracted to a church that was once identified with white racism?
    By Amy Green|September 01, 2004
  • ARTICLE: Black Southern Baptists
    ARTICLE: Black Southern BaptistsSubscriber Access Only
    The SBC's valiant efforts to overcome its racist past.
    Joe Maxwell|May 15, 1995
  • ARTICLE: Passing the Southern Baptist Torch
    ARTICLE: Passing the Southern Baptist TorchSubscriber Access Only
    Preserving a rich theological heritage.
    Timothy George|May 15, 1995
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    The historic designation comes as the government shuts down fellow Christian congregations in the province, leaving advocates to wonder whether it represents propaganda or progress.
    David Roach|December 06, 2019
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    First Baptist Church of Naples, Florida, continues to investigate whether Marcus Hayes’s rejection was the result of racial prejudice or preexisting turmoil following its previous pastor’s departure.
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    The author and English instructor will become the first research professor and one of the only female faculty members at the Southern Baptist college.
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    At the recent Caring Well conference, J. D. Greear said the denomination mistakenly saw abuse claims as “attacks from adversaries instead of warnings from friends.”
    Abby Perry in Grapevine, Texas|October 07, 2019
  • This Sunday Is Southern Baptists’ New Namesake Holiday
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    Adelle Banks – Religion News Service|September 06, 2019
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    He was the face of Southern Baptist seminary. Now the school keeps taking steps to separate from his legacy.
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