What is the difference between Baptist and united methodists?

I can speak of Southern Baptist Convention and United Methodist. The Southern Baptist predominately believe in the literal interpretation of The Bible. They consider it the inspired Word of God as well as the teachings and writings of Paul to be the example for the New Testament church. The four spiritual laws are a foundation for their evangelism as well. God created man in his own image to dwell with Him. Man sinned and has a sinful nature that is abhorrent to God and therefore He cannot commune with man. God sent His only Son, Jesus, to become man and dwell among us and to be a sacrifice for mankind's sin and to be a bridge to God. Man can become a Child of God by accepting this gift and be rejoined with God now and forever.

United Methodist believe that God sent His Son and that man needs to commit himself as an individual and as a church to the earthly needs of man as well as accept Jesus as Savior. Methodists are more ecumenical than Southern Baptists and may be perceived as less critical of other religions. In larger churches you might find the Methodist to appear to be less evangelical.

If I were on a spiritual journey and wanted clear cut dogma, I would go with Southern Baptist. They are into strong belief in prayer and personal Bible study.

If in my spiritual journey I wanted a variety of opinions and more intellectual banter, I would search out a Methodist church.

Whichever journey on you are on, God bless you and give you strength.