Church History

The First Years at Bible Baptist Church

In 1950 the population of Jacksonville, Arkansas was 2,474. During the fifties and into the sixties there was such a tremendous growth and development that Jacksonville became recognized as Arkansas’ fastest growing community . This growth was due to the opening of Little Rock Air Force Base and the movement of people from larger cities to suburban areas. By 1962, the population had increased to 16,715. The Arkansas Baptist Bible Fellowship recognized this rapid growing community as a potential site to hold an old- fashioned tent revival, with the thought of planting a New Testament, Fundamental, Independent Church in the area. In the summer of 1959, the fellowship preachers from the Little Rock area set up a tent on an open field off First Street, just north of the business buildings and across from the Railroad Depot. There they conducted an old-time revival. From this meeting, the Bible Baptist Church emerged.

Marching On – 1971

1971 brought new challenges for Bible Baptist. February marked many victories. The missions monthly budget for the new year was increased to $205.00. The kitchen in the new building was completed.

Also, the new baptistry was received and installed. February 14th marked a record attendance of 188 in Sunday School.

On February 28 , 1971 was the first baptismal service in the home church. Youth Camp was divided into two camps for 1971 – a Junior and a Senior Camp.

The Years Since

The Lord has continue to bless Bible Baptist Church over the many years since the old-fashion tent-revival held during the summer of 1959.

Bible Baptist Church has since been under the leadership of great men such as Dr. Harris and Dr. Mike Files who both had the vision to expand the ministry to reach more people for the cause of Christ.

Jacksonville Christian Academy was formed to provide the youth of Jacksonville with a Christian education. Also, a 65 acre property was able to be purchased as home of Bethel Baptist College to train servants for the Saviour.

Children all around the Jacksonville area come to Camp Hope every summer to leave the worldly influences in their life and get their hearts in tune with God.

Our prayer is that the Lord will continue to bless Bible Baptist Church in the many decades to come and continue to use the church for His glory, as He has over the last 50 years.