Baptist History

Baptist history began in the early 17th century in England, emerging from the Protestant Reformation. Early Baptists emphasized believer’s baptism (as opposed to infant baptism), religious freedom, and the authority of Scripture. Key figures like John Smyth and Thomas Helwys played pivotal roles in forming Baptist beliefs and practices. The movement spread to America in the 17th century, leading to significant congregations such as the Philadelphia Baptist Association. Over time, Baptists have diversified into various denominations, united by their core principles of baptism by immersion and the separation of church and state.