History of Baptists

In the past two class meetings, I have learned interesting facts about the history of Baptist denomination. It began in the year 1612 with Englishmen John Smyth and Thomas Helwys. Both gentlemen argued for religious freedom for all individuals which led them to establish the Baptist movement who were then called the “dippers” referring to total immersion at baptism. Two principles that I believe are historically true and relevant for today is the genuine focus of missions that the Baptist movement had and also defending religious freedom for all individuals. Regarding missions, I believe Baptist mission leaders like ‘Lottie’ Moon  and Annie Armstrong who led mission journeys to China and in the United States would concur with the continuation of reaching out to the unbelievers of the world to show God’s love to the world. Both of these women have foundations founded because of their hard work. And I believe they would love to see the impact that they are continuing to have on the world. Concerning religious freedom principles, I believe these have had a huge impact on countries all over the world, including the United States. Citizens here have the ability to choose where and how to worship in whichever way preferred. And not only in this country has the work of God through Smyth and Helwys has been reaching but throughout the continents of the world.