The Baptist Faith and Message is a statement of faith that outlines the beliefs held by many Baptist churches in the United States. It serves as a guide for doctrine and practice, emphasizing the authority of the Bible, the importance of personal faith in Jesus Christ, and the necessity of baptism for believers. This document reflects the core values of the Southern Baptist Convention and is periodically revised to address contemporary issues. Originally adopted in 1925, the Baptist Faith and Message has undergone several revisions, with the most recent update occurring in 2000. It covers various topics, including the nature of God, salvation, the church, and the role of the Holy Spirit. This statement helps unify Baptist congregations while allowing for local church autonomy in interpretation and practice.