More Baptist Voices for the KJV: Primitive Baptist

These “Voices for the KJV” come from the Primitive Baptist tradition. These Baptists trace their distinct “origin” – that is, separate from Missionary Baptists – to their opposition to the new ideas of Missionary Societies and Church Auxiliaries between about 1820-1840 throughout the U.S. Their grouping on this page does not imply that any church or association is related to or in fellowship with the others.

Aberdeen Primitive Baptist Church, Aberdeen, Mississippi, Doctrine & Practice
“1. That the Bible, being composed of both the Old and New Testaments,  is the inspired Word of God and is our sole authority for doctrine and practice.  We believe that the King James translation is the most accurate translation we have today.  II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1:20-21”

Antioch Primitive Baptist Church, Forney, Texas, Excerpts from the Antioch Primitive Baptist Church Records
“Art. 2 - We believe in the Scriptures of the old and new Testament. That they are the written word of God, and the only infallible rule of Faith and Practice. We prefer the translation made during the reign of King James.” [Adopted by 1935, when these excerpts were included in History of Forney and Its Surrounding Communities by Mrs. George Riter, 1934-35.]

Bethany Primitive Baptist Church, Ecru, Mississippi, The King James Version
“The following is an article by Elder Josh Winslett on which Bible Version (translation) should be used. It is an excellent treatment of the subject that we should all give the most earnest heed. I would have no other Bible other than the King James Translation.–Elder Larry Wise”

Bethlehem Anti-Mission Baptist Association, Abstract of Principles, November 17ff, 1838 [Kentucky]
“Article 2. We believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, as translated by King James, to be the Word of God, and the only rule of faith and practice.” A History of Kentucky Baptists, Volume II, J. H. Spencer, 1885, p. 508

Eastern District Association of Primitive Baptists [Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia], Articles of Faith
“2. We believe the Old and New Testament Scripture, as recorded in the King James translation of 1611, to be the written and revealed Word of God. II Tim. 3:16; II Pet. 1:20, 21.”

Ebenezer Primitive Baptist Church, Westover Alabama, This We Believe
“Article 2. We believe that the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the Word of God, and the only rule of faith and practice; and we believe the scriptures of the 1611 King James Version to be the infallible Word of God.”

Flint River Primitive Baptist Church, Brownsboro, Alabama, Our Beliefs
“We believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the Word of God, and the only rule of faith and practice.  (King James Translation only)”  [This page says Articles of Faith were adopted in 1808, but it is no indication whether the KJT statement is that old or added later.]

Hickory Spring Progressive Primitive Baptist Church, Savannah, Georgia, Articles of Faith
“We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments (of which we consider the King James Translation to be the best) to be the inspired word of God, and that they alone are to govern God's people both in faith and practice. (II Tim. 3: 16-17)”

Mars Hill Primitive Baptist Church, Articles of Faith, Hoboken, Georgia

“2nd. We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, of the original King James Bible, are the words of God, and the only rule of FAITH AND PRACTICE. References: 2 Peter 1:21; Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Luke 24:45; Isaiah 8:20” (Also “Our beliefs and preaching are from the King James Bible.”)

Mount Olive Primitive Baptist Church, Opelika, Alabama, Church Finder and Facebook
“Mount Olive is a member of the Sequatchie Primitive Baptist Association. The King James Version is the only interpretation used in our services. We believe in the Doctrine of Original Sin, and believe that sinners are justified in the sight of God only by the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ.”
“We believe the 1611 King James Version to be the superior English translation of the scriptures...We believe the scriptures to be the inspired Word of God and the sole rule of faith and practice.”

Mountain District Primitive Baptist Association, [North Carolina, Virginia]

In Giving Glory to God in Appalachia: Worship Practices of Six Baptist Sub-Denominations, Howard Dorgan (p. 16) tells of the Mountain District Primitive Baptist Association peacefully changing one of their articles of faith in 1978. “The article had read: ‘We believe that the scriptures of the Old and New Testament is [sic] the written word of God and the only rule of faith and practice.’ The change resulted in the following: ‘We believe that the scriptures of the Old and New Testament, as translated in 1611 into the King James Version of the Holy Bible, is the written word of God and the only rule of faith and practice.’” [Such changes in most cases reveal a change in the articles of faith to reflect prior practice, rather than a change in practice.]

New Hope Primitive Baptist Church, Milan, Tennessee, Doctrine
“The Scriptures: We believe the scriptures are inspired and preserved by God (2nd Timothy 3:16, 2nd Peter 1:20-21), without error or contradiction (Psalms 12:6-7, Proverbs 30:5-6).  We also believe the King James 1611 translation of the scriptures to be a work of God’s Providence in preserving the scriptures for English speaking people.  Everything people need to know about God, the after-life, the nature of man, relationships, attitudes, decisions, ethical values, problem solving, life, and death is addressed comprehensively in Scripture. (2nd Timothy 3:14-17).”

Old Carroll Primitive Baptist Church, Mt. Airy, Maryland, Articles of Faith

“2. We believe that the King James translation out of the original tongues is the scripture of truth, and the only rule of faith and practice.”

Old Harmony Association of Primitive Baptists, Minutes of the One Hundred Thirty-Fifth Annual Session, July 12-14, 2013, Articles of Faith [Texas]
“2. We believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are the words of God and only rule of faith and practice, and prefer the translation made under the authority of King James to any now in existence. II Tim. 3:16; II Peter 1:20, 21.”

Original Bear Creek Primitive Baptist Association, Minutes of the One Hundred Seventieth Annual Session, September 13-15, 2002, Articles of Faith [North Carolina]
“Article 3. We believe that the scripture of the King James Version of the Old and New Testaments contain the only written, revealed word of God and the perfect rule of faith and practice for God's Church in her militant state while here on earth.” [See also 1982 minutes.]

Original Mates Creek Regular Primitive Baptist Association, Articles of Faith, Minutes of the One Hundred Fifteenth Annual Session, September 1-3, 1967, p. 22 [Kentucky]
“10. We believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as translated under the reign of King James, are a revelation from God, inspired by the Holy Ghost, and that the New Testament is the standard of faith and the only authorized rule of practice to the church of God under gospel dispensation. We therefore consider ourselves solemnly bound by our allegiance to the King of Zion to reject, disclaim and disfellowship all modern and ancient religious institutions or societies of which we have neither precept nor example in the New Testament.”

Roaring River Primitive Baptist Association, Articles of Faith, Minutes of the One Hundred Fifth Annual Session, September 21-23, 1951, [North Carolina] p. 6

“2. We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments (as recorded in the authorized King James Version) are the words of God, and the only rule of faith and practice.”

Savannah Progressive Primitive Baptist Church, Savannah, Georgia, Articles of Faith
“II: The Scriptures. That the Scriptures, comprising the Old and New Testaments (of which we consider the King James Translation to be the best), are full of divine Authority, and are to be accepted as the only rule of faith and practice.”

Senter District Primitive Baptist Association, Articles of Faith, Ashe County, North Carolina, Minutes of the Ninety-third Annual Session, September 6-8, 1946

“2. We believe that scriptures of the Old and New Testament as translated in the 1611 King James version of the Holy Bible, is the written work of God and the only rule of faith and practice.”

St. Andrew Primitive Baptist Church, Panama City, Florida, Articles of Faith, King James Bible
“We believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments of the Authorized King James Version of the Holy Bible are the revealed Word of God, and we believe the Scripture of the New Testament to be the only rule of our Faith and practice in Church Government.”

Washington District Regular Primitive Baptist Association, Abstract of Principles

“Article 2. We believe that the King James Translation (out of the original tongues) is the Scripture of truth and the only rule of faith and practice.” (History of the Washington District Regular Primitive Baptist Association 1811- 1951 by Elihu Jasper Sutherland. In Chapter Two Sutherland writes, “The 1867 Abstracts are reprinted in this Chapter, along with the Abstracts published in the 1951 minutes, wherein differences appear.” He says, “The change in the wording of this article was made in 1896.” Before that time it read “We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the Word of God and the only rule of faith and practice.” Sutherland also writes that he had access to the minutes, 1811-1951.)

Yellow Creek Primitive Baptist Association, Articles of Faith, [Missouri]
“1. We believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament (the translation made in the reign of King James) are the words of God, and the only rule of faith and practice.” (General History of Macon County, Missouri, Edgar White, editor, Chicago, IL: Henry Taylor & Co., 1910, p. 157) This statement was in the Yellow Creek minutes at least by 1909. White’s book was published in 1910, and he speaks of the September 1910 meeting of the association as yet in the future.

The Primitive or Original Baptist Church (1952, February)
(“In the latter part of 1950 we received a letter from the Sociology Department of the Florida State University, Tallahassee, Fla., requesting a short article (limited to so many words) on the organization of our church (Primitive baptist) and of our belief. We sent the letter to Elder C. M. Mills, Charlotte, N. C. Brother Mills wrote the following article: You can ascertain from reading Brother Mills’ article the points they were especially interested in.—Mrs. C. H. C. [Mrs. C. H. Cayce]”)
“The New Testament Church of Jesus Christ was constituted and made up of believers in Jesus Christ, who upon confessing their sins and bringing forth fruit, meets for repentance, were baptized by John the Baptist. The Original Church was a baptized assembly of believers, called out to serve and obey God by obeying the teachings of Jesus Christ; and were, thereby, separated from the worldly throngs of people. These people have always held most sacred the Holy Scriptures. We believe that all the Old and New Testament, which has been translated into the English tongue, in what is known as the King James Version, is of Divine Inspiration...” Elder C. M. Mills, Charlotte, North Carolina, 1952

More Baptist Voices for the KJV: Old Regular

These “Voices for the KJV” come from the Old Regular Baptist tradition – mostly found in Appalachia. Many of the Old Regular Associations and Churches are connected by correspondence, and have the same or very similar article of faith regarding the Bible. Therefore, I chose to just give a few illustrations.

Lily of The Valley Old Regular Baptist Church of Jesus Christ, Geneva, Ohio, Articles of Faith
“Article 2. We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testament of the 1611 Authorized King James version of the Bible are the written words of God, and the only rules of Faith and practice. 2nd Peter 1:21, 2nd Tim. 3:16”

Mates Creek District Association of Old Regular Baptists, Minutes of the Fifty-Third Annual Session, September 1-3, 1905, Abstract of Principles, p. 7 in pdf; original page numbers missing [Kentucky]
“10. We believe that the Scriptures of the Old Testament and New Testament, as translated under the reign of King James, are a revelation from God, inspired by the Holy Ghost; and that the New Testament is the standard of faith, and the only authorized rule of practice to the church of God under the gospel dispensation. We therefore consider ourselves solemnly bound by our allegiance to the King of Zion to reject, disclaim and disfellowship all modern and ancient religious institutions or societies of which we have neither precept nor example in the New Testament.” [A local association of 14 churches, in correspondence with five other local associations. A few earlier minutes on the web site do not include the Abstract of Principles.]

New Salem Association of Old Regular Baptist of Jesus Christ,  Minutes of the One Hundred and Sixtry-First Annual Session, September 26-28, 1986, Articles of Faith of the New Salem Association [Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio]

“2. We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments of the Authorized King James version of the Bible are the written words of God and the only rules of faith and practice.” [See also page 6.]

Northern New Salem Association of Old Regular Baptist of Jesus Christ, Articles of Faith, Minutes of the Fifty-Ninth Annual Session, August 5-7, 2016 [Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio] 

“Article 2. We believe the scriptures of the Old and New Testaments of the 1611 Authorized King James version of the Bible are the written words of God, and the only rules of Faith and practice. 2nd Peter 1:21, 2nd Tim. 3:16”

Sardis Association of Old Regular Baptist, Articles of Faith, Minutes of the One Hundred and Eighteenth Annual Session, September 10-12, 2010 [Kentucky]

“Article 2. We believe the scripture of the Old and New Testaments of the Authorized King James Version of the Bible are the written words of God and are the only rules of faith and practice.” See also Sardis Old Regular, 1994

Union Old Regular Baptist Church and Pastor Jeff Little [Kentucky]

“We use the King James Version of the Bible as our only rule of faith, order, and practice because we see it as the best English language version of the Bible.”

More Baptist Voices for the KJV: American Baptist Association

Several churches of the American Baptist Association are included in the “Missionary Baptist” Voices post. I decided to add some more and create a post specific to the American Baptist Association (ABA). I have some knowledge of and background in this group.

The roots of the American Baptist Association are in the Landmark Movement within the Southern Baptist Convention. Events and controversies at the end of the 19th century led to the organization of two new state associations that separated from the older state associations affiliated with the SBC – the Baptist Missionary Association (BMA) of Texas in 1900 and the State Association of Missionary Baptist Churches in Arkansas in 1902. Associations in Oklahoma, Mississippi, Missouri and Louisiana would eventually follow suit. Some who desired to see a national organization for Landmark Baptists organized the General Association of Baptists in the United States of America in 1905. A move for unification of the Baptist Missionary Association of Texas and the General Association led to the formation of the American Baptist Association at Texarkana, Texas in 1924. The BMA of Texas continued as a state organization, and General Association adjourned ‘sine die’ - giving place to the newly formed American Baptist Association.

Later controversies created a division between the ABA and BMAT. A minority of churches pulled out of the BMAT and formed the Missionary Baptist Association (MBA) of Texas in 1950. This body’s current Doctrinal Statement says, “1. We believe in the plenary verbal inspiration and inerrancy of the whole Bible as originally written, and that the Bible is the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice, (Psalm 119-160; II Tim. 3:16-17).” The Statement Of Doctrines of the leading Texas school, Texas Baptist Institute & Seminary, states, “5. The Holy Scriptures, which we call, ‘The Bible,’ in their original expression, are the Words of God; they are verbally inspired and the author of them is God.” This indicates a non-KJV originals-only perspective of the leaders of these bodies. On the other hand, the Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock, Arkansas uses the Doctrinal Statement of the ABA, which speaks of the infallible, verbal inspiration of the whole Bible and avoids mention of the “originals.”[i]

My take: Leading schools and leading preachers of the American Baptist Association are not pro-KJV, but due to the generally conservative nature of the people, their doctrine, and their practice, the rank-and-file often have a specific preference (and beyond) for the King James Bible. The Bogard Press and Baptist Sunday School Literature sticks with the King James Version as its text – possibly for practical reasons more than conviction. Here are some samples from across the web, and a few written sources:

Beacon Missionary Baptist Church, Redding, California, Doctrinal Statement

“We believe the Authorized King James Version of 1611 to be the preserved Word of God for the English speaking people, faithful and true to the original autographs; that other versions are inferior and flawed, with some being outright perversions of God’s Word; that other versions are totally unnecessary, as the King James is not only faithful, but an absolutely effective conveyance of God’s message to mankind.”

Berean Missionary Baptist Church, Duck Town, Tennessee

“Berean MBC is seeking a pastor. The minister has to be mission minded and believe the King James Bible is the preserved Word of God. Must adhere to ABA doctrine.” The Baptist Anchor, October 2014, p. 10

Bethany Missionary Baptist Church, White Hall, Arkansas, About us page
“The King James Version (KJV) Bible: authoritative, inerrant, our standard for truth and obedience.”

Bogard Press of the American Baptist Association, Texarkana, Texas

“Bogard Press has been producing Bible literature for over 100 years – using the King James Version (KJV) and remaining ‘Always True to the Word’.”

Bogard Press, Reports Book of the American Baptist Association, 2016

“Bogard Press introduced a new logo earlier this year. The new logo is a cross that indicates this is a Christian publication. It also points to one purpose of the literature: to lead people to Jesus who died for man’s sins on the cross. The colors and lettering of Bogard Press indicate the freshness and innovative design we want people to recognize in the literature. What has not changed is the slogan for Bogard Press: Always True to the Word. And it is always King James Version.”

College Town Baptist Church, Hammond, Louisiana

“College Town Baptist Church, an old line Missionary Baptist Church is looking for a like-minded pastor. It presently has an interim pastor who wishes to retire from pastoral duties due to age and health.

We are looking for a pastor with ‘Shepherd qualities’ preferable one with some Bible training, able to feed the sheep, willing to seek out the wanders and lost sheep, user of the King James Bible verison and one who loves to meet and fellowship with people.” West Florida Baptist News, July-August 2017, p. 4

Columbus Baptist Church, Columbus, Indiana, Constitution

“For consistency, all teachers will strive to use the King James Version in their teachings, and use materials in harmony with the doctrinal statement of our Church (II Timothy 3:16-17, Revelation 22:18-19).”

Eastern Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Rock Hill, South Carolina, Who We Are

“Whether it’s Sunday School, discipleship training or preaching, we adhere firmly to the truth of God’s Word and use the King James Version.”

Emmaus Baptist College, Brandon, Florida, Doctrinal Statement

“Further, Emmaus Baptist College holds that God has preserved His infallible Word in the Hebrew and Greek manuscripts and that the Authorized Version (KJV) is an accurate English translation of the preserved Word of God. It is the College’s practice to use only the King James Version in the classroom and pulpit. The Majority Text is used for Greek instruction and the Masoretic Hebrew text is used for Hebrew instruction.”

First Baptist Church of White City, Fort Pierce, Florida, Our Beliefs
“The Bible. We believe the Holy Scriptures, composed of the thirty-nine books of the Old Testament and the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, are the verbally inspired Word and Revelation of God. The Bible is inerrant, infallible, God-breathed. The initial miracle of divine inspiration of the original autographs also extends to the divine preservation of a pure text to this day. Therefore, we have the very Word of God in the King James Version preserved through the Hebrew Masoretic Text and the Greek Textus Receptus. We stand firmly as a King James only church.”

First Missionary Baptist Church, Mascotte, Florida

“FMBC Mascotte is currently seeking to match ourselves up with the pastor that we faithfully believe God is preparing for us. We firmly believe that this man will preach only from a King James Version Bible.”  The Baptist Anchor, October 2014, p. 10

Gethsemane Bible Institute, Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, Doctrinal Statement

“The Bible - We believe in the infallible, plenary verbal inspiration of the entire Bible and that it is the absolute, sole, authoritative rule for faith and practice. We believe that the Authorized King James 1611 Bible is the perfect preserved word of God for all English speaking people. (Psalm 12:6-7)”

Hallmark Missionary Baptist Church, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte, Philippines, Hallmark page at NetMinistries

“1. We believe that King James Version is the Word of God in English language. The Bible is composed of sixty six (66):39 books and 27 books.”

Hillcrest Baptist Church, Acworth, Georgia, Super Pages

“Our preference for scripture is the King James Version of the Bible. We use it exclusively in our preaching, teaching, and ministry. We are landmark Baptists (independent and self-governing) and fellowship with the American Baptist Association.”

Hyde Park Baptist Church, West Monroe, Louisiana, About Us

“Welcome to Hyde Park Baptist Church; a church that is progressively conservative and distinctively Baptist. Progressive in the sense that we are fully engaged in reaching our world for Christ; doing whatever it takes. Conservative in that we stand for the ‘old-time religion’ and the King James Version of the Bible. This will be readily seen in our teaching, singing and preaching.”

King James Version Resolution, 1973

Bro. J. O. Phillips (South Carolina) read a resolution as follows: “I make a motion that our literature writers be instructed to quote only from the King James version of the Bible (or a translation closer to the original languages) in our literature, and that we do not promote the sale of ‘GOOD NEWS FOR MODERN MAN’ and ‘THE LIVING BIBLE’ in our Book Stores or Publications.”
Brother Chastain moved to insert the words which appear above following the words King James Version of the Bible “or a translation closer to the original languages.” The amendment carried. The motion also carried as amended.

American Baptist Association, 1973 Yearbook, June 19-21, 1973, p. 29; See page 166, and also History of the American Baptist Association: Commemorating the Seventy-Fifth Meeting June 20- 22, 2000, Robert Ashcraft, editor, 2000, p. 347. [It is my opinion that the amendment by Hoyt Chastain[ii] denuded the original motion of all its practical meaning.]

Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Casa Grande, Arizona, Beliefs

“2. We believe the Bible is God’s inerrant Word and preserved in the King James Bible.”

Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Pensacola, Florida

“We are prayerfully seeking a God-called preacher who is in agreement with the ABA doctrines, uses KJV and has the qualifications of a pastor given in Timothy and Titus.” The Baptist Anchor, October 2014, p. 10

Louisiana State Missionary Baptist Association, 1981 Yearbook, “Doctrinal Policies,” p. 45
“I. We believe in the infallible, verbal inspiration of the whole Bible (II Peter 1.19-21; II Timothy 3.16) and specifically, that the Bible is the Word of God and does not merely contain the Word of God. We reject any and all modern translations and or versions which are not substantially in keeping with the 1611 Authorized Version of the Bible.”

New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, Kokomo, Indiana

“We are a small church of 20-30 people, located in the flat lands of central Indiana. Kokomo, is an automotive / farm community of approximately 80,000 folks. We are needing a God chosen man to lead us in the spreading of God’s teachings as outlined in the King James Bible, a man grounded in the beliefs that parallel the ABA principles. At present, you would probably need to supplement your church supplied salary with a secular vocation.” Baptist Church Seeking Pastors Group on Facebook (2-7-17)

North Hills Missionary Baptist Church, Helena, Montana, North Hills page on Church Angel

“Bible Used: King James Version” [I know the pastor.]

Northside Missionary Baptist Church, Ocala, Florida

“...is currently seeking a full-time pastor. Applicant must believe that the Holy Bible is the inspired and infallible word of God, meet all the qualification of 1 Tim. And Titus, preach and teach only from the King James Version, be a part of and in good fellowship with the American Baptist Association, be in complete conviction/agreement with the ABA Doctrinal Statement...” (“Churches Seeking a Pastor,” West Florida Baptist News, November-December 2017, p. 15)

O’Leno Baptist Church, High Springs, Florida

“O’Leno Missionary Baptist Church of High Springs, Florida is seeking a pastor. The church is 25 miles north of Gainesville and is situated on 8 acres of land. The church is small, but debt-free. They cannot support a pastor full-time. The church believes in the King James version of the Bible and is very supportive of missions.” The Baptist Anchor, May 2014, p. 19

Pastor Thomas Adams, Huntington, Texas, Comment on King James Version

“I believe the King James is God’s inspired and preserved Word. All other versions either take away from God’s intended meaning or are complete error. To preach what God intends for people to hear the preacher must study what God said not what men think He said.

“I believe all scripture should be quoted from the KJV!”

Pigott Branch Missionary Baptist Church, Ludowici, Georgia

“Pigott Branch Missionary Baptist Church is a small rural church located in Southeast, Georgia. We are prayerfully seeking a God called pastor who is in agreement with the ABA doctrine and the KJV Bible. Individual should also possess the qualifications of a pastor given in Timothy and Titus. Pastor may need to be bi-vocational until membership increases.” West Florida Baptist News, November 2014, p. 5

Pilgrim Baptist Church, Florida

“...is seeking a Pastor. The Pastor has to be Mission minded and believe the King James Bible is the only true and living word.” (“Churches Seeking a Pastor,” West Florida Baptist News, November-December 2017, p. 15)

Quaker Avenue Missionary Baptist Church, Lubbock, Texas, KJV Churches Website[iii]

“Quaker Avenue Missionary Baptist Church in Lubbock, Texas believes the King James Version of the Bible and offers traditional worship services in English. They have a service on Wednesday Evening. They may be associated with the following associations and fellowships: American Baptist Association. They offer the following ministries: Faith Bible Institute.”

Home Page: “KING JAMES VERSION EXCLUSIVELY”

Report of the Mongolian Mission Team to Coastal Cooperative Association of Missionary Baptists, California

“We are starting our eighth year in translating the King James Bible into Mongolian. In 2014 our completed New Testament was published and put in the hands of every church member. Each church has copies available for any who want one, and it is being used in several countries. At that time, we put together a year plan to have the Old Testament translated, the entire Bible published, and in the hands of God’s people.”

Resolution to Prefer the King James Version

“Whereas, for over two hundred years, the Authorized King James Version of the Bible has been the standard from which the doctrine and practice of English speaking Baptist Churches was derived, and

“Whereas, this standard is becoming obscured as other Bible versions are being accepted among our churches as alternative standards, and

“Whereas, in fulfillment of the words of our Savior, “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away,” God has preserved the King James Version for several centuries and it yet meets with wide acceptance and respect in matters of morals and religion,

“Whereas, we the messengers to the American Baptist Association recognize the King James Version as the translated Word of God,

“Therefore, in the spirit of I Corinthians 14:33 and for the sake of unity, we recommend its sole use in our national associational meetings, auxiliaries, conferences, and other joint endeavors.”

Submitted for consideration of the messengers to the American Baptist Association by order of First Missionary Baptist Church, Casa Grande, Arizona, in regular conference, June 4, 2000.[iv]

Sulphur Springs Missionary Baptist Church, Mt. Enterprise, Texas

“Our church is looking to fill the role of Pastor. Our previous pastor retired after 7 years leading the congregation. We are a small country church, We are looking to find the man that God intends to fill our pulpit. We currently have services on Sunday morning and Wednesday evening. We have a parsonage available on site. The individual will most likely need to be willing to work outside the church. We are a King James only congregation.” Baptist Church Seeking Pastors Group on Facebook (4-4-17)

The Baptist Chapel, Grand Bay, Alabama, Our Beliefs

“Our preference for scriptures is the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible.”

Tuscanooga Baptist Church, Groveland, Florida, http://www.wfbi.net/images/wfbinews05.pdf

“The Tuscanooga Baptist Church of Groveland, FL, is seeking an ABA pastor. We believe and only use the King James Bible and we support several mission works. We are a loving church, who is seeking a pastor to lead, teach and share our burden for lost souls. We are located in a small community, approximately 35 miles west of Orlando.” West Florida Baptist News, May 2012, p. 3

Unity Missionary Baptist Church, Ada, Oklahoma

In its paper The Landmark Baptist, Unity Church promoted the King James Bible, with such articles as “Bible Succession, Part I” and “Bible Succession, Part II” by Neil Quick (February & March, 1987), and “Why I Prefer the King James Bible Only” by Lee R. Tillman (July, 1989).

Zion Missionary Baptist Church (ABA), Van Buren, Arkansas, About us
“Some may say that we are a traditional Baptist church because we still sing the old hymns and use the King James version of the bible, but that’s okay. Our goal is not to be old fashioned. We are just convinced God does not change with the passing whims, movements or programs of every generation.”

58th Avenue Missionary Baptist Church, Amarillo, Texas, About Us

“We use the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible and would recommend its use by all.”

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[i] It is my understanding that the Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock – which is the ABA’s oldest seminary – is not and has never been “KJV-O” but would place inspiration and infallibility only in the original autographa.

[ii] Brother Chastain was a “critical text” partisan. In a reply to me in The Waterview Baptist Report (Vol. 1, No. 5., p. 2) he said that “the ‘textus Receptus’ is based on late manuscripts” and “I use many different Greek Texts to make my translations including the three most ancient.”

[iii] I noticed several ABA churches on the KJVChurches.com website, including: Beacon Missionary Baptist Church, San Angelo, Texas and Carthage Missionary Baptist Church, Carthage, Texas.

[iv] “Re: Resolution,” E-mail from Chad Whiteley to R. L. Vaughn, Monday, July 17, 2000 (The resolution was brought to the floor, debated, and then tabled.)

More Baptist Voices for the KJV: Missionary Baptist

These “Voices for the KJV” come from the Missionary Baptist tradition – often groups that opposed the Missionary Society and Mission Board systems later than the Primitive Baptists. Their grouping on this page does not imply that they are related to or in fellowship with one another.

Barren River Missionary Baptist Association, Minutes of the One Hundred Sixty-Ninth Annual Session, August 26, 1999, p. 15 [Kentucky]
Articles of Faith the Association Set Up in 1830…“1st. We believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as translated by the authority of King James, to be the words of God, and is the only rule of faith and practice..”

Beacon Missionary Baptist Church, Redding, California, Doctrinal Statement

“The Bible - We believe that the Holy Bible is a supernatural Book; that it is the very God-breathed Word; that it is the full, the final, and the complete revelation of God’s will to man; that it has God the Holy Spirit for its author, salvation for its end, and truth without any admixture of error for its matter; that it was written by holy men of old as they were moved by the Holy Spirit; that it is verbally inspired and a perfect treasure of holy instruction; and that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us, and is, therefore, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions shall be tried. We believe the Authorized King James Version of 1611 to be the preserved Word of God for the English speaking people, faithful and true to the original autographs; that other versions are inferior and flawed, with some being outright perversions of God’s Word; that other versions are totally unnecessary, as the King James is not only faithful, but an absolutely effective conveyance of God’s message to mankind.”

Bethany Missionary Baptist Church, White Hall, Arkansas, About us page
“The King James Version (KJV) Bible: authoritative, inerrant, our standard for truth and obedience”

Big Bear Creek Missionary Baptist Association, Minutes of the One Hundred Fifty Ninth Annual Session, October 8-11, 1994, pp. 37-38 [Alabama]
Resolution # 4, Adopted 1980…“We, the messengers of the Big Bear Creek Association, go on record as reaffirming our opposition to any revision of the 1611 edition of the King James version of the Bible. We believe the first Declaration of Faith as it states, ‘And truth without any mixture of error’ is the King James Version of 1611.
“We are opposed to the New King James Version that came out in 1978. We should warn our members of this one. It is full of errors.
“Let us watch our Churches in which we hold membership and make sure no one preaches from any other version except the old King James Version of 1611.”

Blount County Baptist Association, Minutes of the One Hundred Thirty Fifth Session, October 11-12, 1994, p. 28 [Alabama]
Religious Literature Report…“We urge the use of the King James Version of the Bible as the rule not the exception, making sure anything used is in harmony with, not in contradiction to the Word of God.”

Broadway Avenue Missionary Baptist Church (BMAA), Bay, Arkansas, Welcome page
“Broadway Avenue Missionary Baptist Church is a King James Bible believing church that seeks to lift high the name of Jesus Christ while fulfilling the work He gave His church to do.”

Cane Creek Baptist Association, Minutes of the One Hundred Twenty-Eighth Annual Session, October 7-8, 1990, p. 8-9 [Missouri]
Report on Religious Literature. “...Further we constantly urge that the King James translation of God’s word be used both by the ministry and in the open study and discussion in the home. We believe that it is all sufficient to reveal man’s lost state and also will reveal God’s plan of redemption for all humanity…”
Report on Christian Education. “We the committee on Christian Education recommend the study of the King James translation of the Bible in both the home and in the church…”

Cedar County Baptist Association, Minutes of the One Hundred & Thirteenth Session, August 19-20, 1997, p. 5, 7 [Missouri]

Sunday School Report. “We believe in being very diligent in teaching the Bible that we use the King James Version Bible exclusively and that the Church elect offices and teachers who have been saved by grace, can witness to the fact, and are members in full fellowship of the church in which they serve…”

Education and Periodicals Report. “We endorse that the authorized King James Bible be used by all churches in all study of Jesus Christ and His Church. We believe that the Bible is the word of God written by man as inspired by the Holy Spirit…”

Citrus Missionary Baptist Church, Inverness, Florida, Articles of Faith
“I. The Scriptures: We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men Divinely inspired (II Sam. 23:2; Acts 1:16; Rom. 3:1-2; II Peter 1:21) and that is the perfect treasure of heavenly instruction (Ps. 19:7); that it has God for its Author (II Tim. 3:16-17; I Thess. 2:13), salvation for its end (II Tim. 3:15; Acts 1: 14; Rom. 1: 16; 10:8-10; John 5:38-39; 1 Peter 1:10-12), and truth without any mixture of error for its matter (Prov. 30:5-6; John 17:17; Rom. 3:4; Rev. 22:18-19); that it reveals the principles by which God will judge us (John 12:47-48; Rom. 2:12; James 2:12; Deut. 18:19); and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union (I Cor. 1:10; Eph. 4:3-6; Phil. 2:1-2; 3:16; I Peter 4:11) and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried (Acts 17:11; II Cor. 13:5; I Thess. 5:21; I John 4:1; Isa. 8:20); that though there are no longer any original autographs of the Bible, that the Lord has providentially preserved His Holy Word in what is commonly called the Masoretic Hebrew Text of the Old Testament, and the Textus Receptus Greek Text of the New Testament, and that the King James Version of the English Bible is a true and faithful translation of these two providentially preserved Texts. We reject modern translations of the scriptures. We only use the King James Version.”

Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church, Street, Maryland, Welcome
“We use only the King James Version of the Bible in all our programs, Bible study, Sunday School, Childrens Church, and Bible School.”

County Line Association of Missionary Baptists, Minutes of the 96th Annual Session, October 11-12, 1985, p. 5-6 [Missouri]
Report on Religious Literature. “...We believe in using the King James Version of the Bible in our Sunday School and churches. We do not substitute any literature written by man, unless it harmonizes with our Articles of Faith…”

Eastern Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Rock Hill, South Carolina, Who We Are

“Whether it’s Sunday School, discipleship training or preaching, we adhere firmly to the truth of God’s Word and use the King James Version.”

First Baptist Church of White City, Fort Pierce, Florida, (ABA) Our Beliefs
“The Bible. We believe the Holy Scriptures, composed of the thirty-nine books of the Old Testament and the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, are the verbally inspired Word and Revelation of God. The Bible is inerrant, infallible, God-breathed. The initial miracle of divine inspiration of the original autographs also extends to the divine preservation of a pure text to this day. Therefore, we have the very Word of God in the King James Version preserved through the Hebrew Masoretic Text and the Greek Textus Receptus. We stand firmly as a King James only church.”

First Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Springfield, Oregon

“Only the Authorized King James Bible contains the Word of God...We will show you how the King James Bible harmonizes perfectly and why we study it exclusively.”
“It should become blatantly obvious, in light of this information, who is behind all the modern versions of the Bible. Satan himself desires to imitate, but only to dilute the PURITY of Christ. Don’t be his pawn, use only the King James Version, and make sure to ‘rightly divide the Word of Truth’, II Timothy 2:15.” The Original Baptist Observer, April 2015, p. 4

Hidden Hills Sovereign Grace Baptist Church [Historic, Sovereign Grace, Landmark, Missionary] Willow, Alaska, May we introduce ourselves? 

“We believe and use the King James Version of the Bible.”

Interstate and Foreign Landmark Missionary Baptist Association, Minutes of the Fifteenth Annual Session, March 15, 1966, p. 16
Publications Committee Report: “…Of course, the Bible is the greatest of all publications, and we recommend the King James Version above all others…”

Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Casa Grande, Arizona, Beliefs

“2. We believe the Bible is God’s inerrant Word and preserved in the King James Bible.”

Landmark Missionary Baptist Church, Hayward, California, Pastor’s Wife Page
“We teach and preach from the King James version of the scriptures.”

Louisiana State Association of Regular Missionary Baptist Churches, Minutes of the Forty-Third Annual Session, November 14, 1967, p. 14
Publications Committee Report: “…We also recommend the King James Version of the Holy Bible, the Voice of Faith, Master’s Call, and papers…”

Louisiana State Association of Regular Missionary Baptist Churches, Minutes of the Fifty-Sixth Annual Session, July 13, 1981, p. 15
Publications Committee Report: “…We believe the material people read has an effect on their lives and on the lives of others. We recommend the King James version of the Holy Bible, to be the inspired Word of God and translated for our understanding…”

Louisiana State Missionary Baptist Association (ABA), 1981 Yearbook, “Doctrinal Policies,” p. 45
“I. We believe in the infallible, verbal inspiration of the whole Bible (II Peter 1.19-21; II Timothy 3.16) and specifically, that the Bible is the Word of God and does not merely contain the Word of God. We reject any and all modern translations and or versions which are not substantially in keeping with the 1611 Authorized Version of the Bible.”

Northside Missionary Baptist Church, Ocala, Florida

“...is currently seeking a full-time pastor. Applicant must believe that the Holy Bible is the inspired and infallible word of God, meet all the qualification of 1 Tim. And Titus, preach and teach only from the King James Version, be a part of and in good fellowship with the American Baptist Association, be in complete conviction/agreement with the ABA Doctrinal Statement...” (“Churches Seeking a Pastor,” West Florida Baptist News, November-December 2017, p. 15)

Pilgrim Baptist Church, Florida

“...is seeking a Pastor. The Pastor has to be Mission minded and believe the King James Bible is the only true and living word.” (“Churches Seeking a Pastor,” West Florida Baptist News, November-December 2017, p. 15)

Sanford Missionary Baptist Church, Seminary, Mississippi, Doctrinal Statement

“1. The Word of God is inspired (divinely written and preserved) and infallible (completely trustworthy), and is the only guide for the Church. ‘All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:’(2 Tim. 3:16). Also, we believe the Authorized Version is the translation preserved for the English speaking New Testament Church.”

Sovereign Grace Missionary Baptist Church, Texarkana, Texas

“We believe and teach the King James Bible; while you are welcome to use any bible translation you choose, we only use the King James Bible. We believe the scriptures both Hebrew and Greek text was properly translated for King James and completed in 1611.”

State Line Association of Regular Missionary Baptist Churches, Minutes of the Eighty-Second Session, October 23, 1984, p. 10 [Louisiana]
Publications Committee Report: “…First of all and above all we recommend the reading and studying of the King James version of the Bible. We believe it to be the inspired word of God, and is all sufficient as our guide to lead us in the perfect will of God…”

Wayne Trail Missionary Baptist Association, Annual Report 2015, Constitution of the Wayne Trail Missionary Baptist Association, p. 24 [Ohio]
“Article 4 While this association shall be wholly advisory, and shall never assume any Ecclesiastical authority over churches; yet it reserves the right to withdraw fellowship from any church which departs from the teachings of the authorized KING JAMES VERSION of the HOLY BIBLE, as set forth in the articles of faith of this association.”

Zion Missionary Baptist Church (ABA), Van Buren, Arkansas, About us
“Some may say that we are a traditional Baptist church because we still sing the old hymns and use the King James version of the bible, but that’s okay. Our goal is not to be old fashioned. We are just convinced God does not change with the passing whims, movements or programs of every generation.”

More Baptist Voices for the KJV: Free Baptists

These “Voices for the KJV” come from the General Atonement/Arminian tradition of Baptists – Free Will, General, and Separate. This does not imply that all groups listed here are related to one another otherwise.

Arkansas Association of the Freewill Baptist, Questions for Candidates for Ordination, Minutes of the Arkansas Association of the Church of God Denominated The Freewill Baptist, June 29-30, 1973, p. 8-9
“The purpose of the following examination is to try the man who believes himself to be called of God to preach the gospel, and wishes to be licensed or ordained by one of the Churches of the Arkansas District Association of Freewill Baptists...” (p. 8) “4. Do you believe the Revised Edition of the King James Version of the Bible is literally true? I DO.” (p. 9)

First Free Will Baptist Church, Greenwood, South Carolina, Articles of Faith

“6. Scriptures — we believe that holy men of old wrote the Bible as they were moved, (lit. “Being borne along”) by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21, which harmonizes with 2 Timothy 3:15, which teaches that all Scripture is inspired.” (Lit. “God breathed” or “breathed out by God”).  This means that the Holy Spirit so superintended the writers of the Holy Scripture that, although they utilized their own vocabularies and  experiences, they wrote the very exact message God intended without any omission, addition, or error which means that the Bible is theologically, historically, scientifically, and geographically correct since the Holy Spirit is incapable of erring.  Being plenary verbally inspired by the Holy Spirit guarantees the infallibility and inerrancy of the Bible in every area in which it speaks and makes it the highest authority and guide for the believer.  The King James Version of the Bible shall be the official and only translation used by the church.”

General Conference of Freewill Baptists, 1868, A Treatise on the Faith and Practice of the Free Baptists
“Conference urges more liberal contributions for the distribution of tracts and copies of the Scriptures in India, and, venerating the sacred Scriptures as set forth in King James version, deems it inexpedient to approve the use of the version of the American Bible Union.” Twentieth Triennial Conference, 1868 [See also Minutes of General Conference of the Freewill Baptist Connection, From 1859 to 1886, Volume 2, p. 208]

John-Thomas Association of Freewill Baptists, The Ministry [Virginia, Kentucky]
“10. The John-Thomas Association of Freewill Baptists or any Conference or any Church belonging to the Association for clarification of the term ‘BlBLE’ as our rule of faith and practice will use only the Authorized King James Version of the Scripture of the 1611 translation (translated out of the original tongues, with former translations diligently compared and revised) to read, preach, teach, marry, baptize, bury the dead, present to our Ministers when ordained, and to carry out any Gospel instructions.”

Liberty Association of Free Will Baptists, [Alabama] Proceedings of the 10th Annual Session, September 24-25, 1943, Literature Committee report, p. 11
“We urge our people to be more careful of the kind of literature they read and sanction in their homes; placing the King James Bible first, then all wholesome literature based upon its teachings.” (The fact that they mention “King James Bible” rather than just “Bible” illustrates awareness of other competing Bibles – which they don’t recommend.)

Liberty No. 2 Association of Original Free Will Baptist, Education & Family Religion report, Minutes of the Liberty No. 2 Association of The Original Free Will Baptist, August 13-14, 1993, p. 7 [Alabama]
“We the Education and Family Religion Committee recommend that a good example be set in our homes, such as: family devotions, prayer, grace before meals, etc. We also recommend study of the Scripture using the King James Version...”

National Association of Free Will Baptists, 1976
“Regarding Various Translations
“Whereas, there is confusion caused among our people by many modern translations of the Bible; Whereas, many of these translations are not reliable or trustworthy; therefore, Be it resolved: That we urge our people to use the King James Version of the Bible in the public services. (Passed in Tulsa, Oklahoma meeting, July 11-15, 1976; 2014 Yearbook, and 2013 minutes, p. A-30)” See also 2013 FWB National Convention: Reflections: “The West Virginia State Association requested that the 1976 resolution urging churches to use the King James Version of the Bible be expanded to apply to all services, speakers, and events at the National level. However, by the required two-thirds majority, the delegates voted not to engage in further discussion of this subject/resolution. While this particular vote could be interpreted several different ways, this much is clear: most Free Will Baptists feel that we’re not going to make much more progress on this issue for now beyond some soft truces that have been drawn among churches, pastors, and agencies.”

Original Free Will Baptists of North Carolina, Literature Committee report, Yearbook for Original Free Will Baptists of North Carolina, 2000-2001, p. 164
“We, your committee, beg leave to report that we recommend to all our churches that we use the King James version of the Holy Bible in our churches for both teaching and preaching, and likewise that we use literature printed by the Free Will Baptist Press in all our churches.”
Educational Committee report, Yearbook for Original Free Will Baptists of North Carolina, 2000-2001, p. 164
“We, your committee, beg leave to report that the first priority in education shall be the teaching of the King James version of the Holy Bible (God’s word) in the home, the church, and schools such as Mount Olive College.”

Original Stone Association of Free Will Baptists, Statement of Faith, [Tennessee]

“B.  We believe the holy scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God, and the only rule of faith and practice (II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1: 20-21).  The King James Version of the Bible shall be the official and only translation used by the Association.”

Springdale Free Will Baptist Church, Oxford, Mississippi Home Page, What We Believe
“A family ministry where there is...Strong belief in the Bible as the inspired, inerrant, and authoritative word of God, preserved in the King James Bible today.”
“THE BIBLE is the inspired, infallible, perfect Word of God.  God preserved His Word for us today in the King James Bible.”

West Virginia State Association of Free Will Baptist, Resolutions, Minutes of the 70th Annual Session, June 12-13, 2015
“Regarding Various Translations
Whereas, There is confusion caused among our people by many modern translations of the Bible;
Whereas, Many of these translations are not reliable or trustworthy; therefore,
Be it resolved: That we urge our people to use the King James Version of the Bible in the public services. 06-08-2013”


General Baptists

Fairview General Baptist Church, Park City, Kentucky, Advertisement on Super Pages
“We are an independent, fundamental, premillennial, pretribulation, King James Bible believing church. Preaching Christ crucified and risen for sinners to be saved and saints to serve.”

Mt. Union Association, Proceedings of the One Hundred and Thirty-Seventh Annual Session of the Mt. Union Association of General Baptists, September 20-22, 2013 [Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana]
“At this time, Rev. Lyles read I Timothy 4:1, Revelation 22:18-19 and Psalms 68:11.  He quoted Article 1.  He referred to it as being true from Genesis 1:1 to the last ‘amen’ in Revelation.  People ask, ‘where did the Bible come from?,’ the answer ‘God gave it and man penned it.’  If a man is not using the King James, he is not using the truth.” [Note: this is from a preacher’s sermon and not an official statement of the association. “Article 1 - We believe that the Inspired Scriptures are the Old and New Testaments, the infallible Word of God, and the only safe rule of faith and practice. II Tim. 3:16-17; Heb. 1:1-2; II Peter 1:21; Luke 1:70; Acts 3:21; Isaiah 8:20; Titus 1:23 and Heb. 6:18.”]

Separate Baptists

Edinburgh Separate Baptist Church, Edinburgh, Indiana, Articles of Doctrine
“1. We believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the infallible Word of God and the only safe rule of faith and practice, using the King James version of the Holy Bible. * The King James Version of the Bible being the choice for English Speaking People.”

General Association of Separate Baptists in Christ, Articles of Doctrine for All Associations

“Article 1. We believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are the infallible Word of God, and the only safe rule of faith and practice, using the King James version of the Holy Bible for English-speaking people (We believe that non-English speaking people should use a Bible comparable to the King James version of the Holy Bible.). Rom 15:4, I Cor 10:11, II Tim 3:16-17, Gen 1:1 through Rev 22:21.”

Nolynn Association of Separate Baptist in Christ, Minutes of the 197 Annual Session, September 16-17, 2016, Articles of Faith [Kentucky]
“Article 1 We believe that the scripture of the Old and New Testaments are the infallible word of God and the only safe rules of faith and practice, using the Authorized King James Version of the Holy Bible. II Timothy 3:16-17.”

North District Association of Separate Baptists [Kentucky] History, Old Cane Springs Baptist Church

“But the records reveal other difficulties which tried the souls of the church members. Even though six full pages of the minutes for the period from October, 1829, to April, 1831, inclusive, were cut from the record book and apparently destroyed, there remains enough in the minutes and in other sources to indicate that the teachings of Alexander Campbell and other kindred spirits disturbed Old Cane Springs. As early as July, 1827, the North District Association had convened in the church there with Elder David Chenault presiding as moderator. The renowned Elder John Smith, often called ‘Raccoon John,’ was present and was arraigned by the brethren for preferring the Holy Spirit to the Holy Ghost in the baptismal ritual, for preferring actually to break the bread when taking the sacrament, and for preferring a more recent translation of the Bible to the King James version. Chenault and a big majority were strongly against him and such innovations.” [The trial of Raccoon John Smith is also related in Raccoon John Smith: Frontier Kentucky’s Most Famous Preacher, John Sparks, pages 235-260

B. F. Dearmore and the KJV

“As for me, I will take the King James translation as the very Word of God for the English people. I believe it is without error. It is 100 percent correct.”

“Greek vs. English,” independent Baptist preacher Benjamin Franklin Dearmore, in The Message, May, 28, 1959 (while pastor of either Jennings Avenue Baptist Church or South Forth Worth Baptist Temple in Fort Worth, Texas). Dearmore authored the booklet The Church in 1948.