The National Baptist Convention of America (NBCA) is a predominantly African-American Baptist denomination in the United States. It was organized in 1915 following a split from the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. over several disagreements. The NBCA currently has an estimated membership of over 3.5 million people in over 8,500 churches.
The NBCA adheres to Baptist doctrine and polity. This means they believe salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, baptism is for believers only by immersion, the Bible is the sole authority for faith and practice, and each local church is autonomous and led by its own pastor and deacons. Some key beliefs include:
- The Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16).
- There is one God who exists eternally in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).
- Jesus Christ is the Son of God who was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died on the cross to pay the penalty for sin, rose bodily from the grave, and will one day return (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
- Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Good works have no part in salvation but are the evidence of true conversion.
- Eternal security – once saved, always saved (John 10:28-29).
- The church is made up of all true believers. Local churches are led by pastors and deacons (1 Timothy 3:1-13).
- Baptism is by immersion after salvation and has no saving power (Romans 6:3-5).
- The Lord’s Supper and baptism are the two ordinances practiced (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
The NBCA was formed in 1915 following a dispute at the National Baptist Convention meeting in Chicago. Several African-American pastors and leaders were dissatisfied with financial reports and the centralized power structure. The NBCA was formed with a more congregational polity, giving more autonomy to local churches. They also objected to the NBC endorsing certain insurance companies.
Some key NBCA founders and early leaders include:
- Reverend Richard Henry Boyd – Founding president from 1915-1928. Pastored the first NBCA church, Fourth Baptist Church in Nashville.
- Reverend L.K. Williams – Elected second president in 1928 and led the convention for 28 years. He helped grow the convention to over 1 million members.
- Dr. T.J. Jemison – Third president from 1953 to 1982. He helped push for civil rights and was a leader in the boycott of segregated buses in Baton Rouge in 1953.
- Dr. E.C. Morris – Elected president in 1982. First president elected by popular vote of NBCA messengers rather than a nominating committee.
The NBCA is a member of the Baptist World Alliance along with other Baptist conventions around the world. They conduct annual sessions each September in various cities to conduct business, vote, and elect officers. The current president is Dr. Samuel C. Tolbert, Jr. who was elected in 2018.
Some key ministries and auxiliaries of the NBCA include:
- Home Mission Board – Supports church planting and evangelism efforts.
- Foreign Mission Board – Sends and supports missionaries to other countries.
- Publishing Board – Publishes materials including the National Baptist Voice newspaper.
- Women’s Convention – Trains and engages women in missions, ministry, and leadership.
- Laymen’s Movement – Organizes the men of the churches for service and giving.
- Congress of Christian Education – Promotes Christian education in local churches through conferences and events.
The NBCA operates two liberal arts colleges: American Baptist College in Nashville, TN and Saints College in Lexington, MS. They also have partnerships with several seminaries for theological education including Morehouse School of Religion (GA) and Jackson Theological Seminary (MS).
The National Baptist Convention of America has a long history of promoting education, civil rights, and leadership development. They have emphasized the authority of Scripture along with the autonomy of local congregations. With millions of members across the country, they continue to have a significant impact today.
The Bible does not speak directly about denominations since these developed over the centuries after the New Testament was written. However, the Scripture gives principles that relate to this issue of unity and division among believers.
Jesus prayed for unity among his followers: “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” (John 17:20-21)
The apostle Paul also appealed for unity: “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.” (1 Corinthians 1:10)
At times, division is necessary for the sake of truth: “As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him.” (Titus 3:10)
Ultimately, true believers will be united in heaven: “After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands.” (Revelation 7:9)
The New Testament gives principles of servant leadership, financial integrity, doctrinal orthodoxy, and gospel focus that should guide any Christian organization. There will always be some disagreement and division among believers, but ideally this should be minimized for the sake of our witness to the watching world.
The National Baptist Convention of America has sought to maintain a biblical foundation while allowing freedom in local churches. They aim to promote the gospel and biblical doctrine while also advocating for important social issues that align with a Christian worldview. As with any denomination or association, there is room for critique but also much good that can be affirmed as they endeavor to exalt Christ and serve others.
While Christians may have disagreement over methods and secondary issues, the call to unity around the gospel remains primary. The NBCA seems to strive for this balance – upholding orthodox doctrine and morality while allowing diversity in local contexts. Their ministry efforts show a commitment to advancing the kingdom of God through evangelism, discipleship, education, and social justice.
As the NBCA enters its second century of ministry, they continue to have a substantial impact among African American churches and communities across America. Their annual sessions provide inspiration, training, and fellowship for local churches and leaders. They are well-positioned to keep making a difference for Christ through their various boards, auxiliaries, colleges, and partnerships.
The National Baptist Convention of America has given the Black church a unified voice and institutional support for over a century. They have faithfully declared the Word of God while also addressing critical social issues. As they move forward, they aim to keep fulfilling their mission of equipping pastors, empowering churches, and evangelizing the world, all for the glory of God.