Baptist Origins: Its Beginnings (Part 1)

This sermon examines the historical emergence of the Calvinistic Baptist movement within the context of 17th-century English Puritan separatism. It traces the theological development from the Jacob, Lathrop, and Jesse (JLJ) Church, highlighting how a congregational ecclesiology emphasizing a pure body of believers naturally led to the rejection of infant baptism. The presentation analyzes primary historical documents, including the Kiffin Manuscript and conference records, to demonstrate how figures like Henry Jesse, William Kiffin, and Hanserd Knollys wrestled with these issues through prayer and sober debate. It clarifies that the Particular Baptists arose distinctly from the Congregationalist movement rather than from Anabaptist or General Baptist lines, emphasizing their shared Reformed soteriology. The tone is instructional and encouraging, inviting the audience to view this heritage as a testament to God’s faithfulness in preserving the apostolic faith.