Theology and Practice
The general theological perspective of the churches of the Southern Baptist Convention is represented in the Baptist Faith and Message (BF&M). The BF&M was first drafted in 1925. It was revised significantly in 1963 and again in 2000, with the latter revision being the subject of much controversy. The BF&M is not considered to be a creed, such as the Nicene Creed. Members are not required to adhere to it. Churches belonging to the SBC are not required to use it as their statement of faith or doctrine, though many do in lieu of creating their own statement. Despite the fact that the BF&M is not a creed, faculty in SBC-owned seminaries and missionaries who apply to serve through the various SBC missionary agencies must affirm that their practices, doctrine, and preaching are consistent with the BF&M.
In addition to the BF&M, the SBC has also issued the following position statements:
- Autonomy of local church — Affirms the autonomy of the local church.
- Church and state — Supports a free church in a free state. Neither one should control the affairs of the other.
- Cooperation — Identifies the Cooperative Program of missions as integral to the Southern Baptist Convention.
- Creeds and confessions — Statements of belief are revisable in light of Scripture. The Bible is the final word.
- Missions — Honors the indigenous principle in missions. The SBC does not, however, compromise doctrine or its identity for missional opportunities.
- Priesthood of all believers — Laypersons have the same right as ordained ministers to communicate with God, interpret Scripture, and minister in Christ's name.
- Sanctity of life — At the moment of conception, a new being enters the universe, a human being, a being created in God's image.
- Sexuality — Asserts God's plan for marriage and sexual intimacy—as one man and one woman, for life, through matrimony. Homosexuality, extra-marital sexual relations, and polyamorous relationships are not seen as valid "alternative lifestyles."
- Soul competency — Affirms the accountability of each person before God.
- Women in ministry — Women participate equally with men in the priesthood of all believers. Their role is crucial, their wisdom, grace and commitment exemplary. Women are an integral part of Southern Baptist boards, faculties, mission teams, writer pools, and professional staffs. The role of pastor, however, is specifically reserved for men.
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