The Second London Baptist Confession, also known as the Second London Confession or simply the 1689 Confession, is a historic document that outlines the beliefs and practices of Reformed Baptists. It serves as a foundational statement of faith for many Baptist churches even today.
Background
The 1689 Confession was written in England during a time of religious and political turmoil. In the mid-17th century, England was embroiled in a series of conflicts known as the English Civil War. These events had a significant impact on religious freedom and theological discussions.
During this period, various groups emerged within Protestantism, each with their own theological distinctives. One such group was the Particular Baptists, who held to the belief in believers’ baptism and rejected infant baptism practiced by other Protestant denominations.
Authors
The specific individuals who wrote the Second London Baptist Confession are not known with certainty. However, it is widely believed that it was authored by a group of seven prominent Particular Baptist ministers:
- William Collins: A pastor at Wapping Church in London.
- Nehemiah Coxe: An influential theologian and pastor at Petty France Church in London.
- John Bunyan: The famous author of “The Pilgrim’s Progress” and pastor at Bedford Church.
- Benjamin Keach: A notable preacher and writer, serving as pastor at Horsleydown Church in Southwark.
- William Kiffin: A respected elder at Devonshire Square Church in London.
- Samuel Richardson: A pastor at the church in Newington Green, London.
- Andrew Gifford: A minister at a Baptist church in Bristol.
These men were all influential leaders within the Particular Baptist movement, known for their theological expertise and commitment to Reformed theology.
Content and Influence
The Second London Baptist Confession consists of 32 chapters that cover a wide range of theological topics. It addresses matters such as the character of God, the nature and authority of Scripture, the covenant of grace, salvation, and the church.
This confession played a significant role in solidifying Baptist identity and provided a doctrinal foundation for many Baptist churches. It was widely adopted by churches throughout England and later influenced Baptist associations in America.
Key Features
The Second London Baptist Confession is characterized by its clear articulation of Reformed theology, particularly in relation to soteriology (the study of salvation). It affirms doctrines such as original sin, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints.
Additionally, the confession emphasizes religious liberty and freedom of conscience. It affirms that every individual has the right to worship according to their own convictions without coercion or interference from civil authorities.
Conclusion
The Second London Baptist Confession stands as an important historical document that reflects the beliefs and convictions of Reformed Baptists during a crucial period in history. Although its specific authors may remain unknown, their collective efforts have left a lasting impact on Baptist theology and practice.
In summary, this confession serves as a valuable resource for understanding the theological foundations upon which many Baptist churches are built today.