Building on a Common Foundation: The Baptist Union of Scotland 1869–2019

Abstract

This is an exceptionally detailed account of the Baptist Union of Scotland from its origins up until almost the present day. However, despite the level of detail, Talbot’s account never becomes bogged down. It simply moves effortlessly through the passage of time highlighting how the unfolding strategic vision of the Union’s founders served to support and enhanced the life of Scotland’s Baptist churches. The timeline 1869–2019 is neatly divided into accessible chunks with separate chapters covering the First and Second World Wars. As for the chapters themselves they have an easy rhythm encompassing ministry, mission, ecumenical relationships and association with the wider Baptist family. Obviously, there are times in any organisation when points of tension arise. Talbot does not avoid these. Moreover, he handles with great sensitivity the Union’s struggles over the appointment of women as ministers, the tensions with the Baptist College and its ecumenical involvement. What is more, in these three areas, Talbot’s account of the Union’s actions reflects the difficulties many individual congregations continue to face as they attempt to navigate the changing social, philosophical, and theological landscape. If there is a weakness in Talbot’s writing it is that it is overly positive, particularly in his assessment of the post-war period. Although many historians and social commentators portray this as a bleak time for the church Talbot highlights the strategies developed by the Union to stem the tide of ever dwindling numbers. However, despite this positivity, Talbot does not neglect to mention that in some cases churches fail to flourish and close. Obviously, there is a question as to whether this work will appeal to an audience outside of Scotland. The answer to this may be found in Talbot’s writing style which makes this comprehensive account of the Scottish Baptist Union such a compelling read. Therefore, for a reader with an interest in Baptist life, Building on a Common Foundation easily justifies its place on the bookshelf be that within, or without, Scotland.