Table of Contents

Introduction Baptists Beginnings Baptists in the Twentieth Century Baptists' Beliefs and Practices Baptists' Groups: Denominations, Subdenominations, and Churches Bible, Ordinances, and Polity: Debates and Divisions Among Baptists Baptists and Religious Liberty: Citizenship and Freedom Ethnicity and Race in Baptist Churches Women in Baptist Life Baptists and American Culture: "In the World But Not of It"

Promotional Information

Baptist churches and their members have encompassed a range of theological interpretations and a variety of social and political viewpoints. At first glance, Baptist theology seems classically Protestant in its emphasis on the Trinity, the incarnation of Jesus Christ, the authority of Scripture, salvation by faith alone, and baptism by immersion. Yet the interpretation and implementation of these beliefs have made Baptists one of the most fragmented denominations in the United States, often characterized as a people who "multiply by dividing." In Baptists in America, Bill J. Leonard traces the history of Baptists, beginning with their origins in seventeenth-century Holland and England. He examines the development of Baptist beliefs and practices, offering an overview of the various denominations and fellowships within Baptism, and considers the disputes surrounding the question of biblical authority, the ordinances (baptism and the Lord's Supper), congregational forms of church governance, and religious liberty. Leonard also examines the role of Baptists in the Fundamentalist and Social Gospel movements of the early twentieth century, the Civil Rights movement, and the growth of the Religious Right. Leonard explores the social and religious issues currently dividing Baptists, including race, the ordination of women, the separation of church and state, and sexuality. He concludes with a discussion of the future of Baptist identity in America.

About the Author

Bill J. Leonard is dean and professor of church history at Wake Forest University Divinity School. He is the author or editor of fourteen books, including God's Last and Only Hope: The Fragmentation of the Southern Baptist Convention, Christianity in Appalachia: Profiles in Regional Pluralism, and Baptist Ways: A History. His work is often cited in the media, and he appears frequently on NPR and other radio and television stations. In 2007, he was awarded the W. O. Carver Distinguished Service Award from the Baptist History and Heritage Society.

Reviews

"Leonard carefully chronicles the clashes...in an instructive and compelling way." -- Library Journal "Leonard's superb historical and cultural study of this diverse denomination offers an understanding of this sometimes perplexing religious group." -- Henry L. Carrigan, Jr., ForeWord Magazine "Leonard has produced an excellent volume on Baptists in America... Recommended," -- Choice "Leonard's book demonstrates an equanimity badly lacking in many of the Baptist debates." -- Thomas S. Kidd, Journal of Religion "This book covers everything important about the Baptists of America... With respect, balance, and an obvious, genuine love." -- John Crowley, Valdosta State University, Journal of Southern History "This book provides an avenue for consideration of challenges that face Baptists in the dawn of this century." -- Omer Hancock, Review and Expositor "[An] excellent and informative volume." -- Paul Harvey, H-Amstdy