About FBC

Our Affiliation

First Baptist Church has historically been affiliated with three groups of churches:
-The Northwest Baptist Association
Over 40 churches and missions that fellowship together and work together to reach Benton County.
- The Arkansas Baptist State Convention
Nearly 1300 churches that fellowship together and work together to reach and minister to the state of Arkansas.
- The Southern Baptist Convention
Nearly 40,000 churches that cooperate together in missions, education, ministry, and other efforts.

We give a percentage of our budget to help the work in all three of these groups.

What is the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC)?
- It is the largest association of churches in Arkansas and in America. One out of every 10 churches is affiliated with the SBC. 40,000 churches and 15 million members - more than most other denominations combined.
- It is the most diverse association of churches. SBC churches include every race, nationality, and ethnic group. Each Sunday services are held in over 80 languages in the U.S..
- It is one of the fastest growing groups. The SBC baptizes over 1000 new Christians a day in the U.S. and begins nearly 5 new churches a day!

Why not just be an independent church?
We are an independent church! Every SBC church is completely independent. Each church is self-governed and determines its own affairs. For example:
- Every SBC church chooses its own pastor
- Every SBC church owns its own building and assets
- Every SBC church determines its own programs

What are the advantages of affiliating with the SBC?
1. It allows us to identify with other Christians around the world who are known for their commitment to the Bible. The Bible is our highest authority.
2. It allows our church to participate in the largest missionary organization in the world. Through the SBC "Cooperative Program" we help support over 7500 missionaries in 104 countries around the world.