A Confessional People: The Importance of Confessions of Faith among Baptists from the 17th Century to the Present

Contrary to the attempts by some ecclesiastical leaders to both revise Baptist history and undermine confessional importance within Baptist life and associationalism — confessions of faith have played a crucial role in shaping Baptist theology, identity, and practice throughout their history. This brief article aims to provide a detailed historical analysis of the use of confessions of faith among Baptists, spanning from the 17th century to the present day. By drawing upon various academic resources, we will explore the development, significance, and evolving nature of confessions within the Baptist tradition.

During the early 17th century, the Baptist movement emerged in England as dissenters from the established Church of England. As the movement grew, Baptists sought to articulate their theological positions and distinctiveness. Confessions of faith served as written declarations of their beliefs and practices, providing a framework for organizational unity and theological clarity.

One of the earliest and most influential Baptist confessions is the 1644 London Baptist Confession of Faith. This document, influenced by the Reformed tradition, established foundational Baptist principles such as believer’s baptism and the autonomy of the local church. It set a precedent for subsequent confessions, which continued to refine and articulate Baptist theology like the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith, which remains a pillar of Baptist confessionalism used by many congregations still today.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, Baptist confessions of faith became more standardized and denominational in nature. Denominations, such as the Regular Baptists and the General Baptists, produced their own confessions to establish theological boundaries, provide guidelines for membership, and create a standard of association with like-minded congregations.

One notable example is the Philadelphia Confession of Faith (1742) adopted by the Philadelphia Baptist Association. This confession, influenced by the New England Puritan tradition, affirmed key Calvinistic doctrines while emphasizing congregational autonomy. Similarly, the New Hampshire Confession of Faith (1833) reflected a more moderate and evangelical stance, embracing revivalism and missionary endeavors.

Confessions of faith also played a significant role in resolving doctrinal controversies within the Baptist tradition. The 19th century witnessed theological debates, particularly regarding Calvinism and Arminianism. Confessions served as tools for clarifying doctrinal positions and promoting theological unity.

The Abstract of Principles (1859) adopted by the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, for instance, reaffirmed the Reformed theological heritage of Southern Baptists amidst the growing tensions between Calvinistic and non-Calvinistic factions. It provided a unifying theological foundation for the denomination and influenced subsequent Baptist confessions.

In the 20th century, the use of confessions of faith among Baptists evolved in response to changing cultural and theological contexts. While confessions continued to affirm core Baptist principles, there was a growing emphasis on flexibility and inclusivity.

The Baptist Faith and Message (1925, revised in 1963 and 2000) became a widely accepted confession among Southern Baptists. It addressed various contemporary issues, including social ethics, the authority of Scripture, and the role of women in ministry. This confession reflects the ongoing tension between preserving Baptist identity and adapting to cultural shifts.

Furthermore, many Baptist denominations and organizations have adopted statements of faith rather than traditional confessions. These statements are often more concise and flexible, allowing for a broader range of theological interpretations within the Baptist tradition.

Conclusion

Confessions of faith have been instrumental in shaping Baptist theology, promoting unity, and addressing theological controversies throughout their history. From the 17th century to the present day, Baptist confessions have served as foundational documents that define Baptist identity, articulate theological positions, and guide denominational practices.

While the content and scope of Baptist confessions have evolved over time, they remain integral to the Baptist tradition. Confessions continue to provide a framework for theological clarity, organizational unity, and the preservation of core Baptist principles. As Baptists navigate the challenges of the 21st century, confessions of faith will undoubtedly and necessarily continue to play a vital role in affirming and preserving Baptist identity while fostering continual theological dialogue, addressing social and cultural shifts, and cooperating together for the fulfillment the Great Commission.

Bibliography

Bebbington, David W. Baptists through the Centuries: A History of a Global People. Baylor University Press, 2010.

Brackney, William H. A Genetic History of Baptist Thought: With Special Reference to Baptists in Britain and North America. Mercer University Press, 2004.

Lumpkin, William L. Baptist Confessions of Faith. Judson Press, 2013.

McBeth, H. Leon. The Baptist Heritage: Four Centuries of Baptist Witness. B&H Academic, 2006.

Pinson, William M., ed. A Free Will Baptist Handbook: Heritage, Beliefs, and Ministries. Randall House Publications, 2008.

Schreiner, Thomas R., and Shawn D. Wright, eds. Believer’s Baptism: Sign of the New Covenant in Christ. B&H Academic, 2007.

Torbet, Robert G. A History of the Baptists, 3rd ed. Judson Press, 2005.

Vedder, Henry C. A Short History of the Baptists. B&H Academic, 2001.