The Baptist Faith and Message (BF&M) is a historic statement of beliefs adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) to express their core theological convictions. Originally drafted in 1925, and revised in 1963, 1998, and 2000, the BF&M serves as a confession of faith outlining how Baptists understand and apply biblical truth in doctrine, worship, and life.
History and Development
The SBC commissioned the first Baptist Faith and Message in 1925, amid growing concerns about theological liberalism. It was based largely on the 1833 New Hampshire Confession of Faith but adjusted to address contemporary issues of the day. In 1963, under the leadership of theologian Herschel H. Hobbs, the convention revised the statement to emphasize the centrality of Jesus Christ and reaffirm confidence in Scripture during a time of cultural upheaval. A smaller amendment was made in 1998 to add a statement on the biblical view of the family. Finally, a significant revision occurred in 2000, led by a committee chaired by Dr. Adrian Rogers, reflecting the SBC’s renewed commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture, the exclusivity of Christ for salvation, and a complementarian view of gender roles. Each edition of the BF&M reflects an effort to maintain fidelity to Scripture while responding to the doctrinal and cultural challenges of its time.
Core Beliefs
At its foundation, the BF&M affirms the authority, inerrancy, and sufficiency of Scripture. It teaches that the Bible is God's revelation to man, "a perfect treasure of divine instruction," and is the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.
The BF&M articulates a Trinitarian view of God: God the Father as Creator and Ruler, God the Son as Redeemer through His atoning death and resurrection, and God the Holy Spirit as Comforter and Guide. It also emphasizes the total depravity of man and the necessity of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone.
Distinctive Baptist beliefs found in the BF&M include the emphasis on believer’s baptism by immersion and the autonomy of the local church. Religious liberty and the separation of church and state are also strongly affirmed.
The BF&M addresses Christian ethics, family life, and social issues, urging believers to seek justice, practice compassion, and uphold the sanctity of all human life. It remains a guiding document, reflecting the SBC’s commitment to biblical fidelity, evangelistic fervor, and cultural engagement.