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Discover the SBC

June 4, 2015

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What is the Southern Baptist Convention?

  • It is the largest association of Christian churches in America.
  • It is the most diverse association of churches.
  • It is one of the fastest growing association of churches.
  • It is one of the most missions minded association of churches.

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How is the SBC Organized?

  1. Local Associations - there are 32 Associations across Louisiana
  2. State Conventions - Louisiana Baptist Convention is 1,600 Churches across Louisiana
  3. The National Convention - the Southern Baptist Convention is 50,000 churches across the U.S.

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SBC Entities

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WHAT DO SOUTHERN BAPTIST BELIEVE & PRACTICE?

What do Southern Baptist Believe?

  • The Baptist Faith & Message
  • Distinguishing Beliefs: Priesthood of All Believers, Believers Baptism
  • Distinguishing Practices: Evangelism, Cooperative Missions, Regenerate Membership

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Cooperative Missions?

  • the Local Association - suggested is 2% of undesignated receipts. Some churches give less, some give more.
  • the Southern Baptist Cooperative Program - suggested is 8%-10%. Some churches give less, some give more.
  • Special mission offerings:
      • Lottie Moon Offering for International Missions
      • Annie Armstrong Offering for North American Missions
      • Georgia Barnette Offering for State Missions

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Why Affiliate with the SBC?

  • It allows our church to identify with other Christians around the world who are known for their commitment to God and the Bible.
  • It allows our church to participate in the largest Christian missionary organization in the world. Through contributions to the SBC we help support over 10,000 missionaries in over 100 countries.

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Why not just be independent?

WE ARE!

  • Every SBC church chooses its own pastor
  • Every SBC church owns its own property and buildings
  • Every SBC church determines its own focus

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How to join the SBC?

  • Determine your willingness to believe and practice the faith together with other Southern Baptist Churches.
  • Start COOPERATING by contributing to the Cooperative Program.
  • Petition the local Association for membership. Usually needs to be done by September 1st.

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Church Planting with the SBC?

  • Be SENT OUT or SPONSORED by a Southern Baptist Church.
  • Complete a Church Planting Assessment.
  • Cooperative Missions Funding may be available depending on completed assessment & local strategy.

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