Since its organization in 1845 in Augusta, Georgia, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has grown to over 16 million members who worship in more than 45,000 churches in the United States. Southern Baptists sponsor about 5,000 missionaries serving the United States and its territories, Canada, and the Caribbean, as well as sponsoring more than 5,000 foreign missionaries in 153 nations of the world.
The term “Southern Baptist Convention” refers to both the convention and its annual meeting. Working through 1,175 local associations and 42 state conventions, Southern Baptists share a common bond of basic Biblical beliefs and a commitment to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the entire world.
One becomes a Southern Baptist by uniting with a Southern Baptist church – one in friendly cooperation with the Southern Baptist enterprise of reaching the world for Christ. Typically church membership is a matter of receiving Jesus as your Savior and Lord and experiencing believer’s baptism by immersion.
The Gospel
The fact that Jesus died for our sin, was buried, and then rose from the grave is foundational for Southern Baptists. He lives today and stands ready to give abundant and eternal life to all those who repent of sin and place their faith in Him. Southern Baptists invite everyone to receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Learn more about how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ!
Included in this area are:
A Closer Look – links to information about why we are a denomination, why the SBC organized as a convention, the roles of local churches, individuals, ministers, state conventions, and local associations within the Southern Baptist Convention. You can also learn about service and mission opportunities, educational opportunities, and insurance and annuity coverage.
Basic Beliefs – this area provides a quick guide to the core beliefs held by most Southern Baptists.
Position Statements – When issues arise that affect Christians and Southern Baptist in particular, it can be difficult to sort out the truth from the fiction. The information in this area will help you understand the specific issues we are dealing with everyday.
Resolutions – This area provides a historical look at resolutions passed at Southern Baptist Annual Meetings throughout our history.
Legal Authorities – Here you can read the Charter, By-Laws, and Business and Financial Plan of the Southern Baptist Convention and view a list of the legal names under which the SBC and its entities are formed.
A Biblical Heritage – learn more about the Biblical underpinnings of the founders of the Southern Baptist Convention. Read about the convictions of our founders and their unwavering stand on the value of Scripture.
Southern Baptist Voices – Read and hear messages from past and present leaders in the Southern Baptist Convention including R.G. Lee’s famous PayDay Someday message.