History | Baptist

: In 1609, John Smyth , an English Separatist in Amsterdam, became convinced that infant baptism was unscriptural. He baptized himself and then his followers, forming the first identifiable Baptist congregation.

: Most modern scholars view this as a theological rather than a strictly historical claim, noting that many of these early groups held diverse beliefs that do not perfectly align with modern Baptist doctrine. Growth in the New World

: Emerged in the 1630s with a Calvinist perspective, believing Christ died only for the elect ("particular" atonement). baptist history

Baptist history is a complex narrative shaped by a commitment to individual conscience, local church autonomy, and the practice of believer's baptism. While some traditionalists argue for an "unbroken succession" back to the New Testament, most historians trace the formal emergence of the Baptist movement to . Origins and Early Development

Baptists became a major force in American religious life through their focus on religious liberty and evangelism. Why Am I A Southern Baptist? - For the Church : In 1609, John Smyth , an English

A notable but historically debated view within the tradition is the or successionist theory.

: Followed Arminian theology, believing Christ died for all people ("general" atonement). Growth in the New World : Emerged in

: Early Baptists divided into two theological streams: