The Baptist Church is a Christian denomination that emphasizes baptism by immersion and the authority of the Bible. Baptists believe in the autonomy of the local church, meaning each congregation governs itself independently. They also uphold the principle of "soul competency," which asserts that individuals can interpret the Bible and have a personal relationship with God. Baptist churches can vary in beliefs and practices, but they generally share core tenets such as salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and the importance of evangelism. The denomination has a rich history, with roots tracing back to the early 17th century in Europe, particularly in England.