Evangelization and missions

Proclamation of the gospel and church planting are historical priorities of the movement.

73%

Confidence

Supportive

Contrary

Neutral

What it is: The Baptist tradition strongly values evangelization, local and cross-cultural missions, church planting, and biblical teaching.

How the tradition understands it: The local church is called to proclaim the gospel, form disciples, and cooperate in broader missionary projects.

Basis and context: Global Baptist growth was closely linked to the modern missionary movement, religious press, and theological education.

Debates and variations: Some currents emphasize international missions more; others focus on local revitalization, discipleship, or evangelical social action.

Supportive

Acts 13:1-3

baptist,missions,cooperation,church

The community sends missionaries in spiritual cooperation.

Reference: Acts 13:1-3.
Content: The church in Antioch sends Barnabas and Saul for mission after prayer and discernment.
Use in debate: It is important for missions and cooperation among churches.

Matthew 28:19-20 and Acts 1:8 in the Baptist Missionary Tradition

baptist,missions,evangelization,discipleship

The Baptist missionary tradition reads these texts as central calls to the spread of the gospel.

Reference: Baptist readings of Matthew 28:19-20 and Acts 1:8.
Content: The movement historicized these texts in missionary societies, church planting, and global evangelization.
Use in debate: It is an important source for Baptist missionary identity.

William Carey, An Enquiry

baptist,william-carey,missions,history

A classic text of the modern Baptist missionary impulse.

Reference: William Carey, An Enquiry into the Obligations of Christians....
Content: Carey argues for the Christian duty to evangelize the nations and to organize missions intentionally.
Use in debate: It is one of the principal sources of the modern Baptist missionary movement.