: Most modern scholars view this as a theological rather than a strictly historical claim, noting that many of these early groups held diverse beliefs that do not perfectly align with modern Baptist doctrine. Growth in the New World

A notable but historically debated view within the tradition is the or successionist theory.

: Following the Act of Toleration, Particular Baptists formally adopted this confession, which remains a foundational document for many Reformed Baptists today. The "Successionist" Theory (Trail of Blood)

: Proponents argue that Baptist-like churches have existed continuously since the time of Christ, often identifying groups like the Anabaptists, Waldensians, and Lollards as their spiritual ancestors.