12 July 2010

Volume 8, Number 16 news.sbts.edu Augustine as Mentor A Model for Preparing Spiritual Leaders

Augustine of Hippo (354-430) has influenced virtually every philosopher and theologian of the last fifteen centuries. But his personal character and ministry are even more remarkable, for in a time when many monastery dwellers sought solitude, Augustine was always in the company of friends, visiting disciples, and mentoring those he knew.

Augustine as Mentor will help pastors and spiritual leaders to guide and equip others in such timeless matters of the heart as integrity, humility, faithfulness, personal holiness, spiritual hunger, and service to others.

“Few topics are more central to ministry and few scholars are more qualified than Augustine, who enacted this process in the lives of others. Smither, an exceptional church historian, combines these results into an excellent sourcebook of applied theology.” —GARY R. HABERMAS, distinguished research professor, Liberty University

“Smither investigates ancient practice with the expertise of a scholar and the heart of a pastor. His conclusions about Augustine’s approach to mentoring are as relevant in the twenty-first century as they were in the fifth.” —BRYAN LIFTIN, associate professor of theology, Moody Bible Institute

$17.99 / ISBN: 978-08054-4707-1

The Unquenchable Flame Discovering the Heart of the Reformation

“That fire which all the world shall never be able to quench.”

That’s how theologian Richard Sibbes described the spiritual passion God kindled through Martin Luther at the illustrious dawn of the Protestant Reformation.

The Unquenchable Flame, a remarkably accessible introduction to the historic era, brings to life the move- ment’s most colorful characters—Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, the Puritans—and examines their ideas, showing the profound and personal relevance of Reformation thinking for Christians today.

“With the skill of a scholar and the art of a storyteller, Michael Reeves has written what is, quite simply, the best brief introduction to the Reformation I have read.” —MARK DEVER, senior pastor, Capitol Hill Baptist Church, Washington, DC

“A lively and up-to-date account of this important event in Christian history that will stir the heart, refresh the soul, and direct the mind towards a deeper understanding of our faith.” —GERALD BRAY, research professor, Beeson Divinity School, Samford University

$14.99 / ISBN: 978-1433-66931-6

BHAcademic.com

2 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu IN THIS ISSUE GCRTF report passes easily; Southern Seminary grad Wright nominated SBC president 4 By Garrett E. Wishall Becoming a Great Messengers to the Southern Baptist Con- Commission Church vention approved a slightly-amended Great By Chuck Lawless, Commission Resurgence Task Force (GCRTF) Dean of the Billy Graham School report by a 3-1 margin and nominated Atlanta- of Missions and Evangelism area pastor and Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary graduate Bryant Wright as conven- tion president at the SBC annual meeting June 15-16 in Orlando, Fla. 5 At the historic convention that saw more than 11,000 messengers take part — and that Mohler steps away some called the most important annual meet- from live radio show ing since the Conservative Resurgence — a for other ministry spirited, but kind, hour and a half debate pre- opportunities ceded the passage of the GCRTF report. Once messengers had their say and aft er two changes to one of the seven GCRTF recommendations, the report passed easily. 9 Aft er the vote, task force chairman Ronnie Floyd said even those who did not vote for the Southern Baptist Convention President Johnny M. Hunt looks out over more than 10,000 messengers to the Professor profi le: report should be viewed as friends. 2010 SBC annual meeting. Via uplift ed ballot, messengers overwhelmingly voted to adopt the recommenda- Timothy K. Beougher “We … would say to the watching world tions of the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force. Photo by Devin Maddox that the diff erences between those who sup- that is committed to a missional vision of tist Church in Pensacola, Fla. Both candidates port the Great Commission Resurgence report presenting the Gospel of Jesus Christ to every were in favor of the adoption of the GCRTF and recommendations and those who do not person in the world and to make disciples of report. 10 should not be exaggerated,”* said Floyd, senior all the nations. We are a Great Commission In the runoff , Wright defeated Traylor, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Spring- Moore chairs people.” receiving 4,225 votes (55.11 percent) to Tray- dale, Ark. and Th e Church at Pinnacle Hills in lor’s 3,371 votes (43.9 percent). Wright received SBC resolutions Rogers, Ark. committee Bryant Wright nominated SBC the most votes in the fi rst election — around “We are still brothers and sisters in Christ. president 30 percent — closely followed by Traylor and We diff er on no article of faith. We are guided Th e nominating speeches and fi rst elec- Jimmy Jackson, pastor of Whitesburg Baptist by our shared commitment to the Gospel itself tion for SBC president took place just before Church in Huntsville, Ala. Leo Endel, executive and to the articles of faith identifi ed in the the GCR discussion, with the runoff between director of the Minnesota-Wisconsin Baptist 13 Baptist Faith and Message 2000. Th e Southern Wright, pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Convention, also ran in the fi rst election. Baptist Convention is a convention of churches Backstage wisdom Church, and Ted Traylor, pastor of Olive Bap- In his nominating speech for Wright, David from the 2010 SBC Uth, pastor of First Baptist Church in Orlando, said the Atlanta-area pastor’s commitment to Pastors’ Conference the Great Commission is evident. “While we’ve been talking about Great Commission stuff , Bryant’s been quietly leading his church to do it,” Uth said, according to a 14 Baptist Press article by Norm Miller. “He wasn’t Students hone waiting on a resurgence; he wasn’t waiting on a discipleship skills at vote of a convention. He heard his Lord speak, D3 Conference and he did it.” Wright, who earned his master of divinity from Southern Seminary, began as Johnson Ferry’s fi rst full-time pastor in 1981, a year aft er the church began as a plant. Th e church 16 has since given more than any other church in 3 questions with the SBC to the Lottie Moon Christmas Off er- Greg Gilbert ing for International Missions and more than 1,500 members of the church participated in 70 mission trips to 27 countries last year, Uth reported. Bryant Wright, senior pastor of the 7,600 member Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, Ga., won the At Southern’s alumni luncheon, Southern run-off election for president of the Southern Baptist Convention with 55 percent of the vote. More than 7,660 messengers voted during the June 15 election in Orlando, Fla. BP photo (Continued on page 6) nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu J Julyuly 12,12, 20102010 TTOWERSOWERS 3 issue insight TOWERS Becoming a Great Commission Church Towers is published every two to Th is article is an excerpt of a book- more emphasize prayer and more ships mentioned above, and then pray to the Gospel. Decide now to start three weeks, except during the let that may be accessed at www.sbts. forcefully challenge your church to for at least two more non-believers. or strengthen your church’s missions summer and January terms, by edu/resources. pray if you know that prayer in your Determine to pray at least weekly that training for children and youth. the Offi ce of Communications own home is consistent. God will open their blinded minds (2 of Th e Southern Baptist Th eo- Even with the phenomenal oppor- 3. Do Bible studies on great Cor 4:3-4) and transfer them from the 3. Promote, promote, and pro- logical Seminary, 2825 Lexing- ton Road, Louisville, KY 40280. tunities we have to spread the Gospel prayer warriors. It is diffi cult to dominion of darkness to the kingdom mote again any missions off ering today, much of the world still waits read the stories of prayer in the early of His Son (Col 1:13). Pray as well that that your church supports. Out Staff for a Gospel witness. Th e numbers church without longing to pray as you will share the Gospel boldly and of the wealth God has given us, we Executive Editor: around the world reveal the need. clearly when an open door is apparent are privileged to help sustain global Dan DeWitt Of 11,000+ people groups, more Chuck Lawless, (Eph 6:18-20; Col 4:3-4). outreach. I am convinced that, even Dean of the Billy Managing Editor: than 6,600 remain unreached. More 3. Set a goal for sharing the in a time of economic crunch, God’s than 2,000 of these groups have a Graham School Gospel. As you develop relationships, people will give if they believe in the Garrett E. Wishall of Missions and Dir. of News and Information: population of more than 100,000 Evangelism, pray for others and begin to speak cause — and if their leaders chal- Jeff Robinson people. Of these 2,000 groups, slightly Southern Seminary about God, trust Him to empower lenge them. Teach your members 1 Director of more than 500 are still unengaged. you to speak the Gospel to some- about the needs of the world, and Communication Projects: Th e numbers in North America are one. If you are not evangelizing now, introduce them to the sacrifi cial work Jared Hallal no less ominous. Of the 340 million consider a goal to share Christ at least of missionaries around the world. Lead Designer: people in North America, at least 75 twice a month. If you are already Show them that their giving matters, Tyler Deeb percent are assumed to be non-believ- they did. More specifi cally, it is hard doing evangelism, ask God to move and challenge them to give until the 2 Design/Layout: ers. What churches will choose to not to pray more when we read how you toward sharing Christ at least sacrifi ce is real. John Rogers make a dent in this global darkness? much Jesus prayed (consider the book weekly, if not daily. 4. Challenge your church mem- Copy Editors: of Luke). Learn about prayer warriors, bers to be missionaries, including in Emily Griffi n Getting started: pray and you will likely pray more. Touching the world: promote their own neighborhoods. No longer Lindsey M. Poenie Th e famous English pastor Charles and do missions is the mission fi eld only overseas. Th e Gabi Henry Spurgeon once wrote words that still Setting goals: personally For some amazing reason, God has world has come to North America, Photographer: demand our attention today: “Do not evangelize graciously chosen to use His church to and our neighbors sometimes speak Devin Maddox restrain prayer. . . . For only through I teach evangelism, but evangelism reach the world. Th rough the preach- a diff erent language and worship a prayer can the prosperity of a church does not always come easy to me. Th at ing of the Word and the witness of His diff erent “god.” Evangelism in North Contact Information be increased or even maintained.”3 is surprising to me now, as sharing people, God is drawing to Himself a America now requires crossing cul- Phone: (502) 897-4310 Church leaders — primarily the my faith was quite easy when I was people from around the world (Rev 5:8- tural barriers in order to gain a hear- Fax: (502) 897-4880 ing and speak the Gospel. Challenge E-mail: [email protected] pastor — must set the example in lead- a young believer. In fact, evangelism 10). Th e fact that we are permitted to Web: news.sbts.edu ing a church to pray to become a Great was never diffi cult until I became a share in this great work is astounding. your members to be missionaries Commission church. Most church pastor — when the multiple tasks of Too oft en, though, we leave mis- much like the early church, who “went Advertising Information leaders want a ready-made program ministry seemed to get in the way sions to the “professional” mission- everywhere gossiping the Gospel; they Towers, the award-winning cam- for prayer, but almost every prayer of evangelism. Th e more involved I aries who are serving “somewhere did it naturally, enthusiastically, and pus publication of Th e Southern study indicates that a praying church was in leading my church, the less over there.” How regrettable (and with the conviction of those who are Baptist Th eological Seminary, begins with a praying pastor. If you involved I seemed to be in evangelism. disobedient) this is, especially when not paid to say that sort of thing.”4 provides an excellent advertising are a church leader, take a moment I have since realized that I must communication and transportation opportunity for businesses and to answer this question honestly: “If intentionally plan evangelism into my are so advanced today. Consider these Conclusion ministries. Rates for ads are avail- all of our church members prayed as life. I have also learned that I am not simple ways to increase your church’s Our task is to preach the Word able upon request, by emailing [email protected] or calling 897- much and as fervently as I do, should I the only pastor who has to work to commitment to global outreach: to all the nations, beginning where 4310. All material for the ads is expect our church to be a Great Com- keep evangelism at the forefront of his 1. Ask God to give you a heart for we live and trusting His power to subject to approval. Th e adver- mission church?” If your answer is ministry. For me, doing so includes the world. I have seen entire churches do the work (Luke 24:46-49). May tiser assumes full responsibility “no,” you know where to begin. setting personal goals in evangelism. grow burdened about the Great God work through you to lead your for the accuracy of the content. Here are a few steps toward 1. Set a goal for developing Commission aft er God moved fi rst in congregation to be a Great Commis- becoming a praying church leader: relationships with non-believers. In the life of only one church member. sion church. To Submit Insight Articles 1. Hold yourself accountable to most cases, we get so isolated in our Ask God to move in your heart in For more thoughts on missions, To submit Insight articles, someone. Find someone who knows Christian bubble that we seldom have that way. Read about the world; learn evangelism, and biblical church email [email protected]. you well, and who cares enough strong friendships with non-believers. about needs; weep over lostness. growth, visit www.chucklawless.com about you to confront you with this Countering this tendency is not 2. Teach the next generation July 12, 2010, Vol. 8, No. 16. Copyright ©2010 Th e Southern question: “Have you prayed today?” easy unless we intentionally strive to about missions. I fear that many of End notes: Th e age of email makes it possible develop relationships with people out- our churches have so neglected mis- 1See http://www.imb.org/globalresearch/ Baptist Th eological Seminary. 2 for someone to ask us this question side of the church. Consider setting sions training for our next generations See http://www.namb.net/atf/cf/{cda250e8- Postage paid at Louisville, KY. 8866-4236-9a0c-c646de153446}/EVANGELISM_ every day, and most of us need daily a goal to be in a growing relationship that our children no longer have mis- AND_CHURCH_PLANTING_IN_NA.PDF Postmaster: Send address changes accountability for our praying. with at least three non-believers at sionary heroes. If Lottie Moon is only 3Charles Spurgeon, Th e Power of Prayer in a to Towers, 2825 Lexington Road, 2. Pray with your spouse and any time — while always watching for a name and the needs of the world are Believer’s Life (Lynnwood, WA: Emerald Books, Louisville, KY 40280, or e-mail family every day. Even a few minutes opportunities to share the Gospel. known only through cable news, few 1993), 105. 4 [email protected]. a day is a starting point, especially 2. Set a goal for praying for non- of our children will ever grieve for 1.7 Michael Green, Evangelism in the Early Church (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2003), 243. if you have small children. You will believers. Pray for the three relation- billion people who have little access

4 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu Mohler steps away from HISTORY HIGHLIGHT: live radio show for other E. Y. Mullins elected ministry opportunities as president of SBTS By Garrett E. Wishall on more than 100 stations in the United States, By Steve Jones when he was an operator, it was a bit awkward Mohler noted that taking the program to the to catch signals correctly and get into the swing R. Albert Mohler Jr., president of Th e next level would likely involve an expansion to On June 29, 1899, 36 members of the of things. Telegraphers are sensitive as their fi n- Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary, a three-hour daily broadcast. Southern Seminary board of trustees gathered gertips strike unexpected things. So, one lusty announced at the end of his radio show June “Th is is just not a practical possibil- in Atlanta, Ga., for the purpose of electing a new operator called back to the interloper, ‘Who 21 that he needed to prioritize other min- ity,” Mohler explained, “given my other seminary president. William H. Whitsitt had in h—- are you, anyway?” and the interloper istry responsibilities and “a diff erent media responsibilities.” resigned as president earlier that year amid con- chuckled as he replied, ‘Never you mind, just platform.” Th e fi nal live broadcast of Th e Albert In coming days, Mohler said more troversy surrounding his published views regard- go ahead with your thunder.’ He soon got the Mohler Program was held July 2. announcements will be made about the new ing the history of baptism by immersion. Th e hang of things, as he told his wife, and took message aft er message for himself, the very last being the offi cial message from the Board of Trustees of the Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary calling him to its presidency.”2 Mullins offi cially accepted the presidency on July 8, 1899, and took offi ce on Oct. 2 of that year. He would go on to serve in that position for 28 years until his death in 1928. During that time, Mullins left his mark on the direction of the seminary and Southern Baptist life as a whole. He led the seminary in an extensive fundraising eff ort that facilitated the relocation of the seminary to its current location in 1926.

E. Y. Mullins, president of Southern Seminary, 1899 – 1928. Photo from SBTS archives “On June 29, 1899, 36 members of eff ects of that controversy and the decision by the Southern Seminary board of J. P. Greene of William Jewel College to decline Russell D. Moore (left ) interviews R. Albert Mohler Jr. on the air July 1, the day before the fi nal live broad- the seminary presidency left the seminary in trustees gathered in Atlanta, Ga., cast of the Albert Mohler Program. Photo by Devin Maddox urgent need of a new president. Th at leader was for the purpose of electing a new In an offi cial letter explaining his plans, shape of his media plans. One component will chosen in Atlanta as the trustees unanimously Mohler expressed gratitude to his listeners, be a recorded interview and discussion based voted to elect E. Y. Mullins to the presidency. seminary president. ... Th at leader Salem Communications and others who have program without callers. Mohler will also con- Mullins was serving as pastor of Newton was chosen in Atlanta as the trustees had a hand in the radio program. Ed Atsinger tinue to do national broadcast commentary for Centre Church in Massachusetts as the semi- and Stu Epperson, the founders of the Salem Salem Communications. nary trustees gathered in Atlanta. According unanimously voted to elect to his wife, Isla May Mullins, the fi rst telegram Radio Network and Salem Communications, Mohler expressed a measure of regret over E. Y. Mullins to the presidency.” were among those Mohler thanked for “believ- the decision to end the live program that he that was received regarding his election as ing in this program and for building a great knows had to be made. president provided for more confusion that Christian radio network that is not afraid to “Th ere is a sense of sadness in leaving this clarity. Th at telegram from the editor of the As a seminary president and writer, Mullins take on the issues and off er conviction.” stage of ministry and media for another,” he Baptist Argus simply read “Congratulations. also greatly infl uenced the theological direction 1 “I have had the privilege of talking to people wrote. “I need to be most available — at my Send your photograph.” Mullins was unaware of the seminary and many Southern Baptists all over the world each weekday through the best — for those who mean the most to me, that he was even being considered for the towards progressive theology. In addition to medium of radio,” wrote Mohler, president of to Southern Seminary, and to the advance of presidency and initially dismissed the thought. his service as seminary president, Mullins also Th e Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary Christ’s Kingdom.” Telegrams continued to arrive into the evening, served as president of the Southern Baptist Con- in Louisville, Ky. “I believe we have indeed Mohler, who also serves as Joseph Emer- however, and they all confi rmed that he had vention from 1921-1924 and as chairman of the developed a model that lived up to our promise son Brown Professor of Th eology at Southern, indeed been elected as the fourth president of Baptist Faith and Message Committee in 1925. of ‘intelligent Christian conversation about the noted that removing the constraints of a radio his alma mater. His wife recorded the following To learn more about E. Y. Mullins or to issues that matter.’ I have been energized every schedule will allow him to be more present in recollection of the evening of June 29, examine the papers of the presidents of the single day by the experience of sitting behind areas of life and ministry. “Th e messages continued to come at seminary, visit the archives on the second fl oor that microphone and talking to people across “I need to be more present on the mission intervals through the evening; and then, know- of the library or our website at archives.sbts.edu. the nation and around the world.” fi elds of the world, more present with our ing that the telegraph offi ce closed early, Mr. ENDNOTES 1 Mohler cited the continually shift ing students and faculty and more present with Mullins went down and asked, as he had on Isla May Mullins, Edgar Young Mullins: An medium of radio, ministry responsibilities at friends of the Seminary.” another occasion, to take charge of the wire Intimate Biography. (Nashville: Sunday School Southern Seminary and other media opportu- Digital fi les of Th e Albert Mohler Program until his messages ceased coming. Th e agent Board of the Southern Baptist Convention), nities as reasons for the ending of the live radio will continue to be available at www.albert- knew him well, smiled and gave him the wire. 104. 2 show. While the radio program is broadcast mohler.com. As E.Y. tuned in, as he had done in the old days Ibid., 105. nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu J Julyuly 12,12, 20102010 TTOWERSOWERS 5 GCRTF report passes easily (Continued from page 3)

President R. Albert Mohler Jr. recognized Th e vote on Waters’ proposed amendment ballot vote on Waters initial motion. tions, you’ll note they are written as advised by Wright and led attendees in prayer for him. was too close to call and to avoid a lengthy Just before Bryant’s motion, David Tolliver, legal counsel and those with special responsi- Wright expressed a desire to see every Southern ballot vote process, the GCRTF suggested that a messenger from Concord Baptist Church in bility and polity in this convention in order to Baptist pastor lead his church on a mission trip Waters sentence be an addition to the recom- Jeff erson City, Mo., and executive director of do exactly what you are asking to do,” Mohler over the next year and of his SBC presidency, mendation, but not a replacement for the the Missouri Baptist Convention, moved that said. “We’ve sought to write these motions he said, “I am absolutely passionate about language of Great Commission Giving. Th is the GCRTF report be referred to the Executive with due deference and appreciation for our people renewing their relationship with Jesus amendment passed easily, but minutes later Committee for further review. polity to say exactly what it appears that this Christ, that individual relationship with God messenger Jan Bryant, a messenger from Mor- “Jesus in Luke chapter 14:28 admonished amendment would seek to have us to say which through Christ. I’m absolutely passionate about row Baptist Church, Morrow, Ohio, asked that all Christians to count the cost prior to enter- is we are going to trust the trustee system, our global missions and seeing what can happen in Waters initial motion be brought back to the ing into any kind of major undertaking … the Baptist polity, to move from this point onward? the local church when people begin to not only fl oor for a ballot vote. fact is we don’t know the ramifi cations or the Th e real question is, are we going to move from give, and not only pray, but to go and develop At that time, Waters — pastor of First implications of the report,” Tolliver said. “We this point onward?” partnerships around the world.” Baptist Church of Statesboro, Ga. — came to the don’t know the fi nancial ramifi cations. We Tolliver’s motion was rejected by a signifi - For more on Wright’s thoughts on the SBC platform and, aft er discussion with the GCRTF, don’t know the organizational ramifi cations. cant majority. presidency, see page 7. presented a motion that retained the language of How will the work of North American Mission *Quotations from the GCRTF recommenda- Great Commission Giving and added the follow- Board be aff ected through decentralization? … tions and debate come from a transcription by Amendments and debate of the ing sentence: “We affi rm that designated giving Why don’t we take some time and study that?” Melissa Deming, with assistance from Tammi GCRTF report to special causes is to be given as a supplement to Floyd called on Mohler to address Tolliver’s Ledbetter, both of the Southern Baptist TEXAN. Th e two amendments came to recommen- the Cooperative Program and not as a substitute motion and Southern’s president noted that the Story based on personal coverage and stories dation three, which affi rmed the Cooperative for Cooperative Program giving.” Th is amend- task force’s report did precisely what Tolliver by Mark Kelly, David Roach and Norm Miller, Program and called for the addition of the term ment passed overwhelmingly and Bryant said was requesting. reporting for Baptist Press at the SBC, and “Great Commission Giving” to describe the she was satisfi ed and withdrew her request for a “As you look at the actual recommenda- Southern Seminary’s Emily Griffi n. combination of CP giving and designated giving to Southern Baptist entities. Th e amendments read: “continue to honor and affi rm the Coop- SBTS archives adds fi rst edition of erative Program as the most eff ective means of mobilizing our churches and extending our monumental missionary book by Fuller outreach” and “We affi rm that designated giving to special causes is to be given as a supplement By Jeff Robinson published an expanded fi nal version of “Gos- has allowed it to hold up well over the years. to the Cooperative Program and not as a substi- pel Worthy” in 1785. Linen paper had a sturdiness that 19th century tute for Cooperative Program giving.” Andrew Fuller could not escape the ques- “It is very unusual for two reasons: number paper did not, Haykin said. Albert Mohler Jr., a member of the task tion: Does every man have a duty to repent one, this is America and to have the document Publication of “Th e Gospel Worthy” force, said he thought the amendments strength- and believe in the Gospel? in America rather than in the United King- embroiled Fuller in heated controversy ened the recommendation and caused it to bet- Fuller, a young British pastor at the time, dom is very unusual because Andrew Fuller throughout much of the remainder of his min- ter refl ect the priorities of Southern Baptists. wrestled with this critical conondrum for was a Baptist minister in the United Kingdom ister over the so-called “modern question” of “Th e bottom line is that in an inelegant way more than a decade from the mid 1770s well and never came to America,” Haykin said. “duty faith.” Fuller’s work countered the hyper- we have a superior recommendation,” he said, into the 1780s and his study, which landed “Th e document actually came here through Calvinism which deadened many churches in according to a Baptist Press article by David on the answer “Yes, all men have a duty to (Fuller’s) son who made a trip to New York England in the mid-late 18th century by deny- Roach. “I think it’s, in one sense, Southern repent and believe,” became a famous work around 1860. ing duty faith and thus refusing to proclaim Baptists at their very best — sometimes a bit “Th e Gospel Worthy of All Acceptation” that “Secondly, it is very rare to have this sort of the Gospel to the lost. clumsy but determined to get to the same place provided a theological framework that sparked thing because normally it would be destroyed Fuller’s work recovered a theology of together. And I appreciated the spirit of the the modern missions movement that sent by the author upon the writing of the second evangelism and missions and drove Carey, messengers. William Carey to India and Adoniram Judson draft if there was a second draft . Generally, Fuller and others to take the Gospel to the “I especially appreciated the intent and to Burma. these draft s don’t exist for the 18th century nations. tenacity of Dr. John Waters [who proposed the Recently, Th e Southern Baptist Th eologi- because these draft s would be taken to the “Fuller tackled some of the great theologi- amendments] to come and actually get to our cal Seminary acquired Fuller’s fi rst draft of printer and unless the author requested that cal giants of the day in his world — men like attention what further he wanted to say. In one “Gospel Worthy,” a work that is on display in the draft be returned to him, the printer would John Gill, John Brine, who had written fairly sense, if we had received that word prior to the the school’s archives and special collections. end up keeping them and usually most printer extensively against indiscriminate preaching formulation of the fi nal report, I can basically Michael Haykin, professor of church his- records would be thrown out and destroyed of the Gospel, and Fuller was proposing that assure you it would have been in there because tory and biblical spirituality and head of the aft er a number of years. So, to have this is a there would be an open and free off er of the we resonated with that language.” Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies at tremendous fi nd in terms of the rarity of this Gospel to all,” Haykin said. Waters initially moved that the proposal to Southern, bought the rare manuscript for $900 sort of thing, but also in terms of who it is and “What we have is the fi rst draft of that. It create the category “Great Commission Giving” from the Philadelphia Rare Book and Manu- what the book is.” is tremendous to have this document because to refer to CP giving and designated giving to script Company. Th e document will be available in PDF compared to the later draft that was published SBC entities be removed from recommenda- To fi nd an early manuscript of such a format for researchers in Southern Seminary’s it gives us some idea of how his mind devel- tion three and replaced by “to continue to famous work is incredibly rare, Haykin said, archives and special collections library and oped. You can actually see the genesis of his honor and affi rm the Cooperative Program especially to fi nd it in good condition and to the manuscript itself will be rebound and thinking here and comparing that to the later as the most eff ective means of mobilizing our be able to buy it at such a low price. made available for perusal, Haykin said. Fuller version that was published you can see how he churches and extending our outreach.” Th e fi rst draft entails 60-plus pages. Fuller printed the fi rst edition on linen paper, which matured. Th is is a great fi nd.”

6 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu Wright envisions Baptists returning to fi rst love, making radical shift in Cooperative Program priorities By Tammi Reed Ledbetter reduce CP giving in order to designate more to the real heroes in carrying out the Great Com- churches are going to have to really be prayer- the International Mission Board. mission” since they control budgets and decide fully committed to fulfi lling what God has Newly elected Southern Baptist Convention “We realized it does cause the church to appear how much goes out of state for distribution to called us to do with the Great Commission.” President Bryant Wright wants to see South- not to be as supportive of the main approach to Southern Baptist causes. If more Cooperative In America, local church members need ern Baptists return to their fi rst love, radically missions in the Cooperative Program, and yet, at Program dollars were sent to the international to repent of materialism, hedonism and other reprioritize their lives, funding and ministries the same time, we continue to give very heavily mission fi eld, Wright said he believes Southern idols that distract them from their fi rst love and to fulfi ll the Great Commission and directly to the Cooperative Program,” Wright said, noting Baptists would see an increased passion for CP inhibit their love of lost people, Wright added. participate in overseas mission work. that Johnson Ferry contributed the second-highest giving, especially among younger pastors, the “Th e beginning point for all of us is to Speaking to reporters less than an hour aft er Cooperative Program amount in the Georgia group from whom he has received the greatest renew our hearts. Jesus Christ could not be his election on the fi rst day of the SBC annual Baptist Convention last year. support for his stand. clearer, as politically incorrect as it is in our meeting, Wright shared his dream of seeing “We would very much prefer that all those Asked to refl ect on the passage of the contemporary culture, that He is the only way every Southern Baptist pastor and church take funds go straight through CP,” Wright said, Great Commission Resurgence Task Force to God,” he said. at least one mission trip. “but there needs to be a radical reprioritization recommendations during the annual meeting Asked where he stood in his convictions “Th e pastor needs to experience what it’s of that money.” immediately prior to his election, Wright said: regarding Calvinism, Wright described himself like to be out there in another culture sharing He said state conventions as the place where “We have been a people that have been united as “a follower of Jesus Christ that believes the the Good News of Jesus Christ,” Wright said. change must occur and regards Cooperative on missions and evangelism and reaching our Bible.” He added: “I really don’t believe that Wright commended the Atlanta-area Program allocations at the national level as world with the Good News of Jesus Christ and human beings are ever going to completely rec- congregation he pastors, Johnson Ferry Baptist generally healthy. yet we are not moving ahead in that area as we oncile the sovereignty of God and the free will Church in Marietta, for having sent more than Asked about a column he wrote urging state have done a lot of our years.” of man. To have a neat theological system is 1,500 people on 70 mission trips to 27 nations conventions to retain only 25 percent to 30 per- He praised SBC President Johnny Hunt’s great for human beings, but it sure makes for a last year. cent of undesignated CP gift s from churches, courage in raising the issue and to messengers small God. We can have a greater awe about the In the midst of Kingdom-focused work like Wright said, “I’d love to see states move in for engaging in a healthy discussion. majesty and wonder of God when we believe in developing partnerships with Southern Baptist that direction, knowing it will be a long, long “Th e task force leadership has led the con- both.” (BP) missionaries, Wright said Johnson Ferry’s process.” Even a goal of splitting receipts 50/50 vention in taking a very courageous step, but it Tammi Reed Ledbetter is news editor of the leaders began to question why so much of their between state and SBC causes would allow is really just a beginning,” Wright said. “If we’re Southern Baptist TEXAN (www.texanonline. Cooperative Program contributions remained funding for many more missionaries, he said. going to be radically serious about reaching this net), newsjournal of the Southern Baptists of in the United States. Th at led to a decision to Wright said state convention leaders “can be world for Christ, we as individuals and we as Texas Convention. Frank Page elected Executive Committee president By Erin Roach before me is one that’s bigger than any one per- “One of my goals is to be a unifi er. We’ve got to reach the nations for Christ. son, and I am very cognizant of that. So there’s to, based on John 17:21,” he said. “It is impera- “Everyone knows I’m a strong Cooperative Frank Page was elected as the next president a level of nervousness, and I’m not a nervous tive for our evangelistic eff orts that we be uni- Program supporter. I’ve said many times, not just of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Executive fi ed, and that is extremely important to me.” in there but everywhere, ‘Just look at the record,’” Committee June 14 in Orlando, Fla. A former Page, who will work alongside Chapman Page told reporters. “While a lot of people talk president of the Southern Baptist Convention, as president-elect until Oct. 1, hinted at an about the Cooperative Program, I’ve been raising Page will succeed Morris H. Chapman, who is emphasis he’ll unveil in the fall to support millions through it because I do believe in it. I retiring aft er 18 years in the position. international missions, North American believe in what it does in the states. I believe in Page, 57, most recently served as vice presi- missions, the seminaries and the Ethics & Reli- what it does in supporting missions.” dent of evangelization for the North American gious Liberty Commission. Page said the Cooperative Program plays a Mission Board and was pastor of First Baptist “Th e EC is not a missions-sending agency, unique role that must never be overlooked. Church in Taylors, S.C., for nine years and SBC but I want to be the greatest supporter our “It alone pulls us together. It alone provides president from 2006-08. agencies have ever seen,” Page said. for the work of our state conventions that helps Executive Committee members deliber- Aft er Page emerged from the closed-door support so many hurting churches. I love that,” ated for nearly two hours in a closed session session with the Executive Committee mem- he said. the aft ernoon of June 14 before announcing bers and while they were praying and taking A native of Robbins, N.C., Page holds a Ph.D. a decision to call Page as president, and he the vote, he told reporters he answered some in Christian ethics focusing on moral, social and accepted the role with “a great sense of destiny members’ questions regarding the Great Com- ethical issues from Southwestern Baptist Th eo- and awareness that God has a great future for mission Resurgence Task Force report. logical Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, along Southern Baptists.” Frank Page, newly elected president of the SBC As a member of the task force, Page said with a master of divinity degree from South- Page told the Executive Committee his goal Executive Committee, answers questions during a he voiced deep concerns about some of the western. He earned a bachelor of science degree is that the group will be unifi ed in its passion to press conference June 15. BP photo recommendations both to the task force and to with honors from Gardner-Webb University in see the world won to Jesus Christ. In comments person, but I realize the task ahead is great,” the Executive Committee. North Carolina, majoring in psychology with to Baptist Press aft er the vote, Page said he is Page said. “Th ere’s great division amongst the “But I do want to join our president in a minors in sociology and Greek. following the call of God and is excited about brethren and to pull us together is going to be call for a Great Commission Resurgence,” Page Page was named to President Obama’s Advi- the future. a God-ordained task that I shall deal with as said. “I believe that. I love Dr. [Johnny] Hunt sory Council on Faith-based and Neighbor- “I’m somewhat nervous because the task best I can. and love his heart and want to see us do more hood Partnerships in February 2009. (BP) nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu J Julyuly 12,12, 20102010 TTOWERSOWERS 7 Tweetable features “tweets” from Southern Seminary faculty and other leaders in Southern Baptist life.

with David Wells A cross section of the student body of Southern Seminary @albertmohler What is your hometown? What local church are you a Paragould, Ark. member of and how do you minister there? All the radio out here is playing What is your degree track? “I am a member of New Heights Baptist M.Div.; great commission ministries Church where I teach Sunday school, serve @DrMoore music. People are divorcing, as a deacon, and participate in outreach What were you doing before you ministries.” losing in love, breaking each other’s came to Southern? “I worked in the telecommunications What are your future ministry hearts, and having a blast. industry managing an engineering services plans: group, data conversion group and a small “Lord willing, my wife and I hope to http://twitter.com/albertmohler I.T. department.” serve in Ecuador as missionaries with a new and exciting ministry group.” How has your idea of ministry changed been shaped at Southern? How do you see your ministry at “Ministry is going to be harder and Southern preparing you for future @DonWhitney messier than I thought, but the reward ministry? comes from seeing the Holy Spirit trans- “I have learned so much at Southern, but form people, conforming them to the image the one constant I have heard at some point The nearer a man lives to God the more of Jesus and God being worshipped and in every class is simply this: ‘know Christ, glorifi ed.” know His Word and minister in the power intensely he [will fi nd that he] has to and strength of His Holy Spirit.’” mourn over his own evil heart — C.H. “Ministry is going to be harder Advice for other students: and messier than I thought, but “As good as other books can be nothing Spurgeon supplants the Word of God. Never allow the reward comes from seeing the anything to get in the way of learning your http://twitter.com/DonWhitney Holy Spirit transform people.” Bible and knowing it intimately. Also, if you have a spouse and children then ministry — David Wells begins in the home.” @jd_payne • Shine Your Smile! New patient special: $99 (includes initial exam, x-rays, cleaning and Students in Mexican schools have free take home whitening) • Hours 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday survival training in case of shootouts. • Free consultation Pray 4 gospel transformation in • Most dental insurances are accepted • Now accepting new patients! Mexico. Azam Hakim, D.D.S. • 148 Chenoweth Lane http://twitter.com/jd_payne advanced, St. Matthews Advanced Dentistry cosmetic, and general 502-897-1677 www.advanceddentistry.us dentistry Bird illustration Copyright © 2009 Luc Latulippe

8 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu Professor Profi les

Tom Schreiner Timothy K. Beougher Billy Graham Professor of Evangelism and Church Growth and associate dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions and Evangelism

trying to encourage them and say ‘keep doing motions; they really want to impact the world has been one of the most helpful things for our that.’ But we have other students that come with the love of Christ. Th at passion and com- marriage. Sometime it will raise issues that we here that still need encouragement. I once had mitment continues to challenge me.” hadn’t been thinking about and it really helps a student in my personal evangelism class that us communicate.” said ‘I have to admit I was sure I was going to hate this. Th e whole concept of evangelism was “One of the things that my wife Sha- How do you personally feed your terrifying to me but it’s not anymore.’ soul? “People think that evangelism is not for ron and I have done for almost 28 “Spending time with God’s Word is foun- them, and then they start to understand it and years is every year we read a book dational. Even though I am not tremendously that is a transformation that happens from the technological I have learned how to use an iPod inside out. Th at transformation is something together. We each get a copy so we and that has been invaluable to me. I have said that the Lord does, not me.” can mark it up and ask questions, for years that every minister needs a minister, every pastor needs a pastor, and since I’m You have been at Southern You share that your conviction for then we’ll take a mini-retreat away preaching almost every weekend somewhere Seminary’s Billy Graham School practicing and teaching evangelism I like to listen to other preachers as oft en as of Missions and Evangelism for and sit down and go through the comes from Matthew 12:34, where I can. I like to listen to David Platt and the 15 years. How did the Lord lead Jesus says our mouth speaks out of book together and talk about what London church St. Helen’s Bishopsgate. I am you here? that which fi lls our heart. Can you always challenged and encouraged by Platt. I “I got a phone call from Th om Rainer, elements of the book spoke to each elaborate on that? like to listen to St. Helen’s Bishopsgate because founding dean of the Billy Graham School, “When we are passionate about something, of us. Th at has been one of the most they are very good expositors and also it helps asking me if I’d be interested in leaving we talk about it. Th at is why grandparents don’t me remember that North America is not the Wheaton College to come to the Billy Gra- have to have a training seminar about how helpful things for our marriage.” world (there is more to the world than just ham School. While on the phone I told him to talk about their grandkids – they just do it North America).” ‘thank you, but no.’” — Tim Beougher naturally. If we’re in love with the Lord, if He Rainer convinced Beougher to visit is real in our lives, then our witness will just the school before making a hasty deci- be an overfl ow of our walk with Him. A lot of What are you currently reading? sion. Beougher visited Southern Seminary evangelism training focuses on methods — “I love biographries. Spurgeon once said Books: soon aft er, coming more for fellowship and and there certainly is a place for that — but I that every pastor should divide his library up in not thinking that he would be interested think it ought to center in our relationship with two sections – biography and everything else. in a teaching position. Aft er listening to Author of: Christ.” He understood that biographies inspire. I have Southern Seminary President R. Albert • “Overcoming Walls to Witnessing” read and reread the biographies of Dawson Mohler Jr.’s vision for the institution and How do students at Southern Trotman and Jim Elliot because they challenge • “Richard Baxter and Conversion” Rainer’s vision for the Billy Graham School, challenge you? me and inspire me. Beougher was convinced that he needed to “Currently the book on my nightstand Co-author of: be a part of the Billy Graham School. “It’s best to phrase it through a conversation is Paul David Tripp’s new book on marriage “It was the kind of thing that the Lord’s that I had with one of my daughters. We were • “Evangelism for a Changing World” ‘What Did You Expect?: Redeeming the hand was all over. Given the vision for the talking about diff erent generational things and Realities of Marriage.’ I fi nd that everything • Editor of: “Accounts of a Campus Revival: Billy Graham School, it was clear that this is I asked her what her generation thinks about he writes really speaks to me; he really stomps Wheaton College 1995” where I needed to be.” my generation. She said, ‘We think that you all are just playing church.’ She quickly followed all over my toes. I wouldn’t say I enjoy reading that with, ‘I don’t think that about you and him as much as I need to be reading him. One of several editors of: What is your favorite element of mom! I think you two really mean it. But your “One of the things that my wife Sharon and • “Training Leaders to Make Disciples” teaching? generation is just going through the motions I have done for almost 28 years is every year “Th e best part is when the light bulb playing church and my generation doesn’t want we read a book together. We each get a copy so comes on for the students, in particular in to just go through the motions. We really want we can mark it up and ask questions, then we’ll terms of evangelism. We have a lot of stu- to do it and have our hearts there.’ take a mini-retreat away and sit down and go dents who come here with great experience “I sense that among our students. I sense through the book together and talk about what and great passion, and I am just basically that our students aren’t just going through the elements of the book spoke to each of us. Th at

nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu J Julyuly 12,12, 20102010 TTOWERSOWERS 9 Moore chairs SBC resolutions committee Newsbriefs By Robert E. Sagers Moore said that his responsibilities as chair resolution specifi cally on divorce since 1904,” of the committee were to “set the agenda and Moore said. “Given the destruction divorce Motion to make GCRTF Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary’s lead the discussion of our committee in decid- is reeking on the churches right now — and deliberations public fails Russell D. Moore led the Southern Baptist ing what issues we would address and what has been for a generation — that is, in itself, a A motion by Jay Adkins of First Baptist Convention to pass resolutions on issues rang- issues we would not address.” Moore has served scandal. Church in Westwego, La., to make public ing from environmental protection to the SBC’s on the resolutions committee twice previously, “Also, the divorce resolution is speaking immediately the minutes and recordings own culpability in tolerating divorce at the in 2002 and 2003. to ourselves, calling ourselves to repentance, of all Great Commission Resurgence Task annual meeting June 15-16 in Orlando, Fla. rather than simply an expression of outrage Force meetings was defeated on a show of Moore, Southern Seminary’s senior vice- directed toward the outside culture and our lost ballots June 16. Th e task force had voted president for academic administration and friends and neighbors,” he continued. previously to seal its records for 15 years. dean of the School of Th eology, served as Th e resolution on the recent oil spill in the Adkins admitted during debate on his chairman of the SBC’s committee on resolu- Gulf of Mexico hit particularly close to home motion that “there are times when there tions. Th e committee presented seven resolu- for Moore, as he hails from the coastal town needs to be privacy in delicate issues,” but tions to SBC messengers, all of which passed of Biloxi, Miss. He said that the way in which he argued that the GCRTF proceedings with overwhelming majorities (for more on the Southern Baptists spoke to the issue of the care should not be treated as a confi dential resolutions, see the story below). of creation through the resolution is “healthy matter. Aft er the convention, Moore refl ected on for the future.” “I just wonder, what better way could we the resolutions process. Moore said the committee wasn’t all busi- as a body not come together but to then see A resolution, Moore said, is “a statement of ness and planning. the process by which you, as a diverse group opinion or conviction by the messengers at a “It was a really warm-hearted fellowship,” of people, came together and made your meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention.” Moore said of his time with the members of the consideration?” Adkins said. A resolution is “both an internal and an exter- resolutions committee itself. “A good bit of our Speaking against the motion, task force nal conversation,” Moore said, because each time was spent praying — praying for wisdom, member R. Albert Mohler Jr., president of resolution “addresses other Southern Baptists Russell D. Moore, chairman of the 2010 Resolutions praying for one another.” Th e Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary, and also “speaks to the outside world about Committee for the SBC, gives a committee report Th e full content of the seven resolutions said unsealing the record now would cause what Southern Baptists are thinking and feeling June 16. Photo by Devin Maddox passed by this year’s meeting of the Southern the committee to break its promise of confi - and believing at a particular time.” Of the seven resolutions passed by this Baptist Convention — “On the Centrality of dentiality to participants in the deliberation Th e committee exists, Moore said, to receive year’s messengers, Moore said he was most the Gospel,” “On Family Worship,” “On Homo- process. resolutions from Southern Baptists and to craft personally invested in two of them: “On the sexuality and the United States Military,” “On “We invited persons to come meet with resolutions of their own for consideration by Scandal of Southern Baptist Divorce” and “On the Employment Non-Discrimination Act,” us, and we promised them confi dentiality,” the convention. SBC president Johnny Hunt the Gulf of Mexico Catastrophe.” and “On Appreciation,” in addition to the two Mohler said. “In the course of those delib- appointed the entire committee, including “Th e divorce resolution encouraged me previously noted — may be accessed online at erations, of necessity we had to deal with Moore. because Southern Baptists have not passed a www.sbc.net. some questions about personnel that are indeed legally privileged and are confi denti- ality covered and are matters of tremendous Resolutions address Gospel’s implications sensitivity. Th is motion would require your task force to break its word to those we By Tom Strode morning session June 16. Th e other measures: the Gospel to unbelievers but to Christians as invited to come meet with us.” • Encouraged prayer for the end of the well “that through the renewing of our minds James A. Smith, executive editor of Messengers adopted a resolution calling for massive oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico and for we might continually be transformed by the the Florida Baptist Witness, spoke for the reaffi rmation of the centrality of the Gospel of those aff ected by the crisis, and action by the Gospel.” It called for pastors “to keep the Gos- motion, arguing that “there is interest, Jesus and endorsed other resolutions addressing government and corporations to prevent future pel foremost in every sermon” and churches I believe, in Southern Baptist life to now the implications of the Good News June 15-16. catastrophes. “to display the Gospel by transcending ethnic, know today and in future weeks rather than Russell D. Moore, chairman of the Reso- • Opposed the eff ort to change federal law racial, economic and social barriers due to our in 15 years the deliberations this task force lutions Committee, told reporters aft er the to permit homosexuals to serve openly in the unity in Christ.” engaged in.” messengers’ votes the committee members military. It also encouraged Southern Baptists “to But Greg Wills, professor of church “wanted to make a very clear statement at the • Expressed disapproval of the Employment speak to the outside world as those who are history at Southern Seminary, pointed very beginning that we believe the Gospel is Non-discrimination Act, which would grant forgiven sinners, who have received mercy as out that records of sensitive matters are central not only in our evangelism, although rights in the workplace based on homosexual- a free gift , and not as those who are morally or customarily sealed for a period of time. He that is certainly true, but in every aspect of the ity and other “sexual orientations.” ethically superior to anyone.” cited the SBC Peace Committee, the diary Christian life.” • Called for the “scandal of Southern Baptist Th e resolution on the Gulf oil crisis asserted of Southern Seminary president William Th e committee was “very intentional on trying divorce” to be addressed by the convention and that mankind’s “dominion over the creation is Whitsitt and transcripts of a 1958 Southern to speak in a Gospel-focused way not only in the its churches. not unlimited, as though we were gods and not Seminary trustee committee as examples of fi rst resolution” but in each of the others, said • Urged Christians to participate in family creatures,” meaning there is a higher standard temporarily sealed records. Moore, senior vice president for academic admin- worship in their homes, with fathers taking the than economic profi t. Wills said opening the GCRTF records istration and dean of the School of Th eology at lead, and churches to promote the practice. “[W]e are acknowledging here there is no now would force future SBC committees Th e Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary. • Th anked God and those He used to pro- unlimited, Pharaoh-like dominion over the to eschew audio recordings in order to Th e resolution on the Gospel was one of duce the annual meeting of Southern Baptists. earth,” Moore said at the news conference. “Th ere preserve confi dentiality and that such an seven approved by messengers either unani- Th e resolution on the centrality of the is a Christ-like stewardship over the earth, and action would impoverish the historical mously or with almost no opposition during the Gospel urged churches not only to proclaim that would apply in every aspect of life.” (BP) record. (BP)

10 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu Books old and new

“Bonhoeff er: Pastor, Bonhoeff er and his profoundly courageous pages, but you will not be able to put it down be found in Germany and the book also sheds Martyr, Prophet, Spy” leadership of the confessing church in Nazi for long. light on his involvement in smuggling Jews by Eric Metaxas (Th omas Germany, a faithful church that led resistance Th e book provides thrilling details about into neutral Switzerland. For Bonhoeff er, the Nelson 2010, $29.99) to the demonic Th ird Reich and its unholy Bonhoeff er’s involvement in a plot to assassi- true church was composed of Jews and Greeks, leader Adolf Hitler. nate Hitler. A man of deep piety and conviction slaves and free, and any church that articulated By Jeff Robinson Metaxas’s book provides as much insight who wrote a work on ethics while imprisoned, a gospel of ethnic supremacy had become a into the wickedness of the Th ird Reich as it Bonhoeff er nonetheless believed it was God’s false church in league with Satan. And any As a church historian, does into the indefatigable eff orts of Bonhoeff er will and served the greater good to kill Adolph Christian who would do nothing to oppose biographies are among who was executed at a concentration camp in Hitler. Arrested in the aft ermath of the failed the machinations of such wickedness had not my favorite kind of books Flossenburg mere days before Germany surren- attempt, Bonhoeff er’s intimate involvement in rightful claim on the name of Christ. and thus, I am constantly dered to the Allies. the plot came to light only aft er another failed Th e work is well-written and impeccably reading one. I said that to provide context for “Bonhoeff er” provides a well-researched attempt on the Fuhrer’s life, the now-famous researched. At more than 500 words, it is this statement: Metaxas’s work on Bonhoeff er is and deeply intimate look at the Lutheran pastor Valkyrie operation. densely packed with quotations and source one of the fi nest and most inspiring biogra- and the theology of the cross that drove him Readers also learn of Bonhoeff er’s com- material, but readers will be quickly drawn into phies I have ever read. to participate in an attempted assassination of mitment to conservative theology during a the enthralling story that is part biography, part Metaxas paints a bold picture of Dietrich Hitler. Th e work is lengthy and detailed at 540 time when few orthodox theologians were to living theology and part spy story.

“Th e Last Stand: “Th e Masculine that are present in the best players: he hit for a Maravich’s life is a not uncommon tale of Custer, Sitting Bull, and Mandate: God’s Calling high average, hit for power, had blazing speed someone living his life apart from submis- the Battle of the Little to Men” by Richard D. on the base paths, was an excellent defensive sion to God and a personal relationship with Bighorn” by Nathaniel Phillips (Reformation player and possessed a howitzer arm. Him before one day realizing that such a life Philbrick (Viking 2010, Trust 2010, $15) Hirsch tells of Mays’ life and career, which is meaningless and without hope. Th e original $30) began in the old Negro Leagues, and shows element of Maravich’s story – other than every By Jeff Robinson how he became one of the most beloved players person’s story and life being unique and valu- By Jeff Robinson in history in the face of the ungodly racism of able to God – is his gift edness as a basketball Phillips brings us a the 1950s and 60s in the big leagues. Th is book player and intensity as a human being. Only a Th e author of the fresh treatment of the tells of baseball during its golden age when handful could control and make a basketball best-selling book “May- crucial topic of biblical manhood. Written from many Hall of Famers roamed the classic old sing like Maravich and he did everything full fl ower” is back with a new and compelling a robust complementarian viewpoint, Phillips ballparks, salaries were a bit more sane and throttle. examination of the famous Battle of Little Big applies his clear writing style to teasing out the steroids were injected only in farm animals. Federman and Terrill weave a compel- Horn. From Booklist’s Gilbert Taylor: “Shift - myriad implications of the two-fold calling of ling account of Maravich’s growing up years, ing between the movements of Custer’s cavalry every man from Genesis 2:15, a calling that “Pete Maravich: record-setting time as the star of Louisiana and regiment and the Cheyenne and Lakota village originated with the fi rst man in the garden: to Th e Authorized Biog- the college basketball world at Louisiana State it was approaching, Philbrick both quickens the work and to keep. raphy of Pistol Pete” University and injury-plagued NBA career, pace and fl ashes back to the lives of the princi- In God’s mandate to Adam in Eden, the by Wayne Federman before turning to his conversion to Christianity pal characters in the drama: Custer; his subor- author perceives a template for manhood, one and Marshall Terrill in following his retirement. dinate offi cers Frederick Benteen and Marcus that, when carried out with diligence, provides collaboration with Jackie Th e authors present an honest account of Reno; and on the Indian side, Sitting Bull and dignity to men, service to mankind and glory Maravich (Tyndale 2008, Maravich’s pre-conversion life, noting that Crazy Horse. Although in the aft ermath of to God. He then goes on to show that men are $14.99) some loved him and considered him the life of Custer’s annihilation, contemporary American called to lead, to love their wives, to discipline the party, while others thought him selfi sh and blame fell on the dead man, Philbrick arraigns their children and to serve the church of Jesus By Garrett E. sullen, including teammates. Th e stark account Reno (for being intoxicated) and Benteen (for Christ. Here is biblical exposition of the most Wishall of Maravich nearly being shot one night being slow to link up with Custer). However, practical sort teaching that reveals not only outside a tavern, and his obsessive devotion Philbrick keeps hold of a hint that Custer let what men are to think but what they are to be. God has given His creation many good to sports, success, UFO’s and nutrition set the Reno attack unsupported so as to garner the Don’t miss this excellent, concise work. gift s, but none can substitute for a personal stage well for his dramatic conversion. glory for himself. Evoking such tantalizing relationship with the Giver. Th at, in a nutshell, Th e intensity of Maravich’s devotion to details, as well as the fi ght’s tragic context of “Willie Mays: Th e is the story of Pete Maravich, a life that is well Christianity led to a strong witness for Christ being the Plains Indians’ own last stand, Phil- Life, the Legend” by captured in “Pete Maravich: Th e Authorized that found expression in dozens of speaking brick delivers a compellingly readable rendition James S. Hirsch (Scribner Biography of Pistol Pete.” engagements across the United States. Mara- of the famous battle.” 2010, $30) Having previously enjoyed the movie “Pistol: vich’s heart attack in Dobson’s arms at age 40 Th e Birth of a Legend” (1991) and another Mara- ended his life, as the Lord chose to bring him By Jeff Robinson vich biography, I was intrigued to read the newest home aft er just a few years as a Christian. Maravich biography written by Wayne Federman Th ough some of the game accounts drag Mention the name and Marshall Terrill in collaboration with Jackie on a bit, this book provides an interesting Willie Mays to a real Maravich, widow of the basketball great. inside look at Maravich’s life through personal baseball fan and one Th e forward by James Dobson started off accounts from Maravich and those close to thought will usually the book, as the Focus on the Family founder him. Maravich’s life is a testimony to the great- spring to his mind: fi ve tools. Many consider recounted Maravich dying of a heart attack in his ness of God’s grace and the futility of life apart Mays the greatest baseball player of all time arms aft er a pick-up basketball game with Focus from Him. because he was omni-competent in fi ve areas staff . It was the fi rst time that the two had met. nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu J Julyuly 12,12, 20102010 TTOWERSOWERS 11 Adoption spotlighted at SBC Pastors’ Conference Moore challenges Southern Baptists Th e Pastors’ Conference program featured ing the June 14 aft ernoon session. Buff and they stopped crying out for help. to picture the Gospel by caring for the launch of a national campaign to help pas- Cissy McNickle, a Florida couple who adopted “(Before we adopted our boys) we walked the fatherless tors adopt children (www.sbcadoption.com). twin boys, appeared on stage. Buff is a minister into their room one last time and told our boys Kevin Ezell, president of the Pastors’ Confer- at Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, Fla. that … we would not leave them orphans and By Garrett E. Wishall ence and senior pastor of Highview Baptist “Adoption is not God’s Plan B ever. Adop- we would come to them,” said Moore in his tion is always Pastors’ Conference message. Under the banner of “Greater Th ings,” God’s Plan A, “When we walked out of the room, we speakers during the June 14 aft ernoon and if that’s what heard that little one-year-old boy fall down evening sessions of the 2010 Pastors’ Confer- He’s called the on his face in that crib and scream. My wife’s ence focused on the Great Commission and the family to,” Cissy knees buckled as she started to cry and I held launch of a national campaign to help pastors McNickle said back tears myself as I said, ‘that is the most adopt children. during a short beautiful sound I ever heard in my life because Russell D. Moore called attendees of the video that told he has parents who will hear him when he Southern Baptist Convention Pastors’ Confer- their adoption calls.’” ence to view adoption and orphan care not as story. Paul wrote of men who were known as a charitable eff ort, but as an extension of the Ezell, whose children of God, Moore said, not because they Gospel that characterizes churches that are three adopted were part of ethnic Israel, but because the same serious about the mission of God. children are Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead dwelled Moore, preaching from Romans 8:12-23, from China, within them. Such people regularly cry to God said God adopting people who were once Ethiopia and ‘abba!” a term that entails relationship and spiritual orphans should be a life-shaping real- the Philip- familiarity, but also much more. ity. Instead, he said it is something we oft en pines, also “Paul is telling us that the cry ‘Abba!’ is liter- quickly forget. presented the ally a scream through the Spirit of adoption,” “God has said to us that every single one of McNickles with Moore said. “Th ose who are the children of us was isolated and alone and spiritually father- Kevin Ezell, senior pastor of Highview Baptist Church, prays for Buff and Cissy an unexpected God are crying out, with arms lift ed up, ‘father! less and we have a Father who rescued us from McNickle, who recently adopted twin boys. Th e couple received a donation at the SBC $10,000 check Father! Father!’ that and a Father who has given us a Gospel Pastors’ Conference that paid their adoption debt of $10,000. Ezell announced that the to go toward “Adoption and orphan care is not char- that is enough to say ‘whoever calls upon the Pastors’ Conference will provide $2,000 adoption grants from an off ering surplus to the adoption ity; adoption and orphan care is not another Southern Baptist ministers and missionaries. Photo by Devin Maddox name of the Lord will be saved,’” said Moore, of their twins denominational program. Adoption and senior vice president for academic administra- Church, who initiated the fund, hopes to raise from the ministry partners who sponsored this orphan care is spiritual warfare, because adop- tion and dean of the School of Th eology at Th e a $1.5 million endowment in order to match year’s conference. tion and orphan care is about Gospel and about Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary. the fi rst $2,000 a pastor raises to adopt a child. Moore — who has adopted two boys from mission.” “If we believe that and if we have received Pastors’ Conference attendees gave a $26,000 Russia — recounted walking into a Russian Th e section on the launch of a national adop- that then we should picture and show that, off ering toward the fund. orphanage that was totally silent because tion campaign was compiled by Shannon Baker including to the fatherless children of the world.” Th e fi rst adoption grant was awarded dur- infants had needs go unmet for so long that from various reports for Baptist Press.

Mohler focuses on necessity of conversion at SBC Pastors’ Conference By Garrett E. Wishall While Nicodemus came to Jesus for preach the Gospel, we bear witness to the Gos- to His ascension, where He is lift ed up now as conversation, Jesus quickly turned the discus- pel and we see the aff ect of the Spirit as there is Savior and as Lord.” No matter how orthodox one’s theology or sion to conversion for Nicodemus was not a a response to the Gospel by faith.” Finally, Mohler highlighted the Gospel in how favorable his opinion of Jesus, unless one believer. First, Mohler noted the imperative of Th ird, Mohler fl eshed out a theology of conversion. Scripture teaches about the pur- is converted from a self-centered life of sin to conversion. conversion, focusing on the necessity of a sub- pose and plan of God in salvation, man’s neces- repentance and faith in Jesus Christ he will not “Jesus makes very clear that conversion stitutionary sacrifi ce. sary response and the imperative to proclaim receive salvation, R. Albert Mohler Jr. said June is not an option,” he said. “It is not a way one “In the Old Testament, Moses was the Gospel to all men. 14 at the Southern Baptist Convention Pastors’ becomes a believer. It is not one understanding instructed to craft a bronze serpent so that “God’s love underlines the divine initiative Conference. among other possible understandings. Jesus everyone who was bitten by a venomous snake in the Gospel,” Mohler said. “God’s purpose Mohler, president of Th e Southern Baptist says the defi nitive, essential experience is that might look to the snake and live,” he said. “It before the cosmos was created was to redeem Th eological Seminary, worked through the one must be born again.” is a pointer to a substitutionary atonement. a people through the blood of His own Son. story of Nicodemus in John 3 to demonstrate Second, Mohler highlighted the mystery Th ere was nothing that the Israelite could do to To clothe His people in the righteousness of the centrality of conversion in Scripture. of conversion. He said such mystery empha- save himself. His salvation had to come from His Son. To declare His people as sinners who “We come to understand that conversion sizes both the essential ministry of the Holy completely outside of himself: his salvation had are drawn to faith in Christ as the Gospel is is so central to our theology that it must be Spirit to awaken the dead and the means God to come from God. proclaimed. in every sermon,” Mohler said. “It must be in uses in conversion: the proclamation of the “Here in this gospel, John three times makes “And there is a whoever here: that whoever every church. It must be always the confes- Gospel. the statement of Jesus being lift ed up and all believes in Him should not perish but have sion of the church, that we are not the ones “Here we have a testimony to the fact that three times it refers to Jesus being lift ed up on eternal life. And thus we fi nd our confi dence born merely, but twice born by the promise the wind blows and we cannot orchestrate it or a cross: the sinless Son of God paying the full to declare the Gospel: that if any sinner and power of God and by the Gospel of Jesus manipulate it: we can’t even predict it and that penalty for our sin. But it all three times in the believes in the Lord Jesus Christ, he or she Christ.” is how it is with salvation,” Mohler said. “We Gospel of John also points to His exaltation, will be saved.”

12 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu Backstage wisdom from the 2010 SBC Pastors’ Conference By Emily Griffin C.J. Mahaney, leader of Sovereign Matt Chandler, lead pastor of The Ravi Zacharias, founder of Ravi Grace Ministries Village Church in Dallas, Texas Zacharias International Ministries Southern Seminary alums Kevin Ezell, Mandrell: How do you stay fresh in Scroggins: You talked a lot about how Scroggins: As pastors listen to preachers Jimmy Scroggins and Ben Mandrell served as preaching? our preaching and our programming in local like you, what is your hope for them? If we are president, vice president and treasurer, respec- Mahaney: Surely, you could have found churches tends to basically encourage people going to turn things around what needs to hap- tively, of the 2010 SBC Pastors’ Conference. somebody else more experienced, more eff ective to chase works-righteousness as opposed to the pen in the lives of pastors? Th e three developed the conference to chal- than myself in answering this question! Here is Gospel of Jesus. What can pastors do to begin Zacharias: We need to rescue the opportu- lenge pastors and church leaders to consider my attempt to encourage any pastor who under- to retrain their churches to think diff erently nity of the moment. It will go away otherwise. about the Gospel? Th e most important thing is reaching our Chandler: I think that the pastor’s weapon youth. We are in deadly trouble because the is vision casting and the pulpit every weekend. youth are being swept aside in our universities Almost every program that I know of, whether by hostile ideas, atheistic worldviews and other that’s a Southern Baptist church or an Acts 29 ideas that actually are incoherent to their core church, almost any program that started with but made so appealing to their sensibilities. Th e its roots in “How do we clearly communicate church has to come to terms with the questions the Gospel in this area?,” and then it drift s. So of our time and, without compromising the what I think you have to do is go back. I don’t substance of the Gospel, reach this generation. necessarily think you have to shred all your Scroggins: With popular culture so strong programs, stop everything that you’re doing and jamming demonic ideas down the throats and start some new work; you need to simply of our children and families, what can we do? go back to what those works started for and Zacharias: One of the things that you can what they were about. know for sure is that as awful as those ideas are they leave them empty. It’s like Jack Higgins the J.D. Greear, lead pastor of Summit writer said, I wish I’d known that when I got to Church of Raleigh-Durham, N.C. the top there would be nothing there, the lone- Mandrell: What words of encouragement liest moment is when you’ve just experienced would give to young pastors? that. So the hollowness is there, what they are Greear: In the world we live in it becomes very easy Johnny Hunt, outgoing SBC president, answers a question from Jimmy Scroggins aft er his sermon at the to think “I can just 2010 SBC Pastors’ Conference. Photo by Devin Maddox fl y solo, I don’t need all the mess the “greater things” they can achieve in their stands the labor intensive nature of preparation that comes with personal walk with Christ, for their family, for of preaching and then the proclamation event the SBC.” In any their churches and for the mission fi eld. as well. I want to encourage you to watch your group of people As each speaker fi nished delivering their life and doctrine. I fi nd it easier to watch my that you join up message, Scroggins and Mandrell briefl y doctrine than I do to watch my life. I must pay with you are going interviewed them and asked them to share wise attention to my life, I must pay attention to my to fi nd that there words to young pastors. Here are some of the soul and watch over my heart with all diligence is always dysfunc- backstage interview highlights. as we are commanded in Proverbs 4. tion and mess. Th e SBC is not Johnny Hunt, pastor of First David Dockery, President of Union unique in that and Baptist Church of Woodstock, Ga. University in Jackson, Tenn. that is true of any Scroggins: What would you say to pastors Mandrell: What would you say to a young network. who need some encouragement? pastor who is trying to fi gure out where he fi ts I would Hunt: When I think about the pastors of into the SBC? encourage young small churches I am mindful that we have all Dockery: I would call for us to focus on pastors that there Matt Chandler, pastor of Th e Village Church in Texas, delivers a sermon at the 2010 been there. My fi rst church had 35 [people], our commonalities and pray that God would are things in the SBC Pastors’ Conference. Aft er the sermon, Pastors’ Conference President Kevin Ezell second 37, third 90. But I wanted to do the bring about unity, consensus and renewal. To SBC that God has prayed for Chandler who is battling terminal cancer. Photo by Devin Maddox best I could there. You don’t have to have a recognize that one of the four core values being given them and big church to do big things. If you experience proposed by the GCR is to focus on the King- that we can do much more eff ectively together. looking for is the coherence of what it is we are a Great Commission resurgence in your own dom and that as Southern Baptists we need to One of those is international church planting; trying to present. We need to communicate heart, then in your local church and then take be Southern Baptists but not Southern Baptists one of those is theological education. I am a why it is that this bridges the head to the heart. the people that God has committed to you and exclusively — we need to relate to other personal benefi ciary of both of those: I spent Scroggins: And the Gospel of Jesus does embolden them and empower them through Gospel partners across the Kingdom and work two years in the mission fi eld and didn’t have that? the proclamation of the Word to win their together for the good of the Gospel, holding to raise any money because of the Cooperative Zacharias: It is the only message that does community … I know of nothing more encour- hands as friends and creating new networks. I Program and I graduated from seminary debt that, there is no other message. aging to a young pastor than literally embrac- think there is opportunity for young pastors to free — which is almost unheard of — because of Video of each backstage interview is avail- ing and doing the Great Commission. lead this over the next decade. the Cooperative Program. able at www.sbcpc.net. nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu J Julyuly 12,12, 20102010 TTOWERSOWERS 13 Students hone discipleship skills at D3 Conference By Emily Griffin he appeared when Jesus was hungry. Jesus a living sacrifi ce is the one, who by defi nition Dumas challenged students to think care- faced the temptations that we face but He set on the authority of Scripture, is not conformed fully about this point. If you see His all-present “Th is week is about what it means to fol- His eyes on the Father and overcame them, to the world because he or she has a mind that nature as a threat rather than a comfort, then low Jesus as a disciple,” Denny Burk, dean of Moore said. is renewed.” you need to deepen your walk with the Lord, Boyce College, told the nearly 100 students Moore implored D3 students to understand Dumas preached a message that challenged he said. that attended the inaugural D3 Youth Confer- that no one is invulnerable to temptation and D3 students to consider how they handle fear. Th ird, God is all powerful, and we need to ence on the campus of Th e Southern Baptist Satan will appeal to the deepest urges and Fear of things other than God is an unhealthy realize that we cannot fully imagine the details Th eological Seminary. wants one has in their life. and unhelpful dimension of faith, Dumas said, of His being. Dumas’ fi nal point was that God Dan Dumas, senior vice president for insti- “If you are going for follow Christ, you are but a fear of the Lord will serve you all the days is all knowing and we cannot have secrets from tutional administration at Southern, designed going to have to understand what it means to of your life. Teaching from Psalm 139, Dumas Him. D3 for high school students wanting to enrich be a person made with an appetite and you said the text reminds believers of the awesome- “Search me, know me, try me - this should their discipleship and develop their under- need to understand that your appetite is going ness of God. be your prayer,” Dumas said. standing of Christian leadership, worldview to be extremely strong,” he said. “Th is text is the single greatest aid to my and missions. R. Albert Mohler Jr., president of Southern personal sanctifi cation,” Dumas said. Leadership, worldview, missions “Our prayer is that this week will be one of Seminary, spoke on developing a Christian Building a high view of God does have D3 students structured their own confer- those watershed moments in your life where worldview from Romans 12:1-2. complications, Dumas said. First, God has full ence experience by selecting one of three focus God sets down some markers in your life about “I want to encourage you to develop a disclosure and is all-knowing, meaning that His tracks: leadership, worldview and missions. what it means to be a disciple and what it Christian worldview because you do not want followers cannot have privacy. Second, God is Dumas led the leadership track and focused means to follow Him,” Burk said. to miss God’s perfect will in your life,” Mohler always present; therefore His followers cannot on fi ve topics: character as king, leaders don’t run away from Him. panic, leaders must live for others, leaders must Hurley challenges students to understand the wrath of God

By Courtney Reissig

Th e subject of God’s wrath is not something we like to think about, Shannon Hurley told the high school students gathered for the fi nal session of the D3 conference. In fact, he said it is a subject that Satan will do everything in his power to turn people away from. “Satan doesn’t want us to think about God’s wrath, which is why he will try to fi ll our day with everything else,” Hurley said. “We are bombarded with this life, everything that will get us not to think about eternity.” Hurley serves as the director of Suffi ciency of Scripture Ministries (SOS) in Uganda. SOS exists to disciple people through God’s Word and biblical training, and is an evangelical voice in Uganda, Hurley said. Hurley challenged students to think about eternity and told them that an understanding of the wrath of God should awaken them to ministering to lost people. It should also awaken them to see the justice of God and their own sinfulness, Hurley said. Dan Dumas leads a session at the inaugural D3 Youth Conference at Southern Seminary. Dumas headed up the leadership track at the conference. Photo by Devin Maddox “We think we are so good, but in reality we are bad,” he said. “God is the judge of the living and the dead. Because He is a righteous judge He cannot let anything go unpunished, there- Discipleship in the Word said. “You do not want to miss God’s plan for fore He must punish. Th erefore the wrath of God is who He has revealed Himself to be.” Russell Moore, dean of the School of Th eol- your life. You are only going to fi nd yourself Using a variety of biblical texts, Hurley showed that God’s wrath is revealed in six ways. ogy and senior vice president for academic faithful in God’s plan for your life if you are “God has revealed his wrath through natural disasters, heavenly powers, various wars, administration at Southern, spoke three times a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is abandonment, the last days and eternal judgment in hell,” he said. during the four-day event. faithful, and if you are fully operational, which But, most notably, God revealed His wrath through the death of His Son, Hurley said. Moore’s fi rst message came from Matthew means thinking like a Christian.” “God poured His wrath on His Son so that people don’t have to suff er wrath,” Hurley said. 3:16-4:4 and addressed temptation. Moore told Mohler said it is going to take everything “God cannot let any sin go unpunished, so He had to pour His wrath on something. So He students that Scripture affi rms that Satan is Christians to be faithful to Jesus Christ in this said ‘let me take my own innocent Son and let me put him on that tree and I ‘will put my leading each of us into temptation like sheep fallen world. He drew attention to the apostle wrath on him.’” to slaughter. Th e Bible says that no one is being Paul, who said that faithful Christians are not When we tell people about the coming wrath of God, we must tell them about the hope of tempted by God, Moore said, but all of us are conforming to the world but are transformed the Gospel, Hurley further explained. being tested by God. Testing occurs when God by the living God. “God sent His Son so that those who realize they are wretched sinners can run to the allows us to go through a time or situation in “Th e Christian worldview is not a mind cross, cling to the cross and hold on to the cross. Th rough this cross their sins are put on God which we see what is really true about ourselves game, it is not an intellectual exercise, it is not a — and they are forgiven.” whereas temptation is something leading us course you can take or a seminar — it is a way “Th e Gospel,” Hurley told the gathered students, “is that God bore the wrath that they towards harm and destruction. of life that equals faithfulness to Jesus Christ,” deserved to show that He is a righteous judge who will judge the world for sin. Moore said Jesus was tempted by Satan and Mohler said. “Without developing a Christian “God has revealed his wrath. Th e question is this: will you believe it and run to Him, the tested by the Spirit. Satan did not approach worldview you can never demonstrate what it only one who can save you, Jesus Christ?” Jesus during His time in the wilderness; rather means to be a living sacrifi ce to Christ because

14 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu Announcements Ministry

Free sewing class Resources Th e free sewing class led by Mrs. Barbara Gentry meets from 6-7:30 p.m. on Mondays in Ministry position postings Fuller Room 16. Th is class will be continuing Full-time and part-time ministry positions throughout the summer. Sewing machines are may be found on e-campus through the help provided at no cost. No experience is required, desk’s link to Ministry Resources. but women with experience may also partici- pate. Knitting and crocheting lessons will also Résumé service be off ered. Mrs. Barbara Gentry leads the class, Start or update your résumé fi le with Min- assisted by Mrs. Kathy Vogel. For questions, istry Resources by submitting our on-line can- you can call Mrs. Gentry at 380-6448 or Mrs. didate form. Visit the Church Resources quick Vogel at 742-1497. link on www.sbts.edu for the simple instruc- tions. Th e offi ce is also eager to counsel you Vigilance conference: rebuilding over your resume and ministry preferences. Denny Burk, dean of Boyce College, addresses students as worship artist Josh Wilson looks on. Burk led perspective on safety and security Visit Norton Room 150 or call ext. 4208. the worldview track and Wilson led worship at the event. Photo by Devin Maddox Th e Vigilance Conference July 20-22 at be Gospel-driven and acting like men. Heather Southern Seminary will equip pastors, leaders Payne, former member of the Point of Grace and administrators, as well as safety and secu- Health and Rec music group, led the female D3 students in an rity staff , to think biblically about their role as acting like women session. shepherds, providing for the physical security Th e Health and Recreation Center (HRC) will For the character as king discussion of their fl ock. Speakers will include top names be open the following hours during the summer: Dumas pointed students to 1 Timothy 4 and in safety and security to address crucial topics M-F — 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat. — 9 a.m.-9 p.m. told students that leadership is not a sprint, such as executive protection, risk management but is instead a long distance race. Th rough- and security systems. Visit www.sbts.edu/ Aerobics schedule out this race students should have a “healthy events to register or learn more. • Fitness Boot Camp M, W & F 8-8:45 a.m. dissatisfaction” with their own leadership of • Mommy and Me Power Walking others, meaning a desire to mature, grow and Connecting Church & Home W & F 10-11 a.m. strengthen their abilities. Conference • Practical Pilates M, T, & R 4:45-5:45 p.m. Burk led the worldview track and told Th e Connecting Church & Home Con- • Aqua Alive T & R 5-5:45 p.m. students that their worldview needs to answer ference is designed to equip pastors, church • Body Sculpt T & R 9-9:45 p.m. many questions, including what it means to be leaders and parents with practical ministry a human being. Burk told students that gender strategies for shepherding families within the Intramural volleyball confusion exists in the secular and evangelical church. Th e conference will be held at Southern Co-ed Volleyball takes place at 6:30 p.m. every world. Seminary Aug. 20-21. Featuring nationally Monday in the Main Gym of the HRC. “From pop culture idols to Bible profes- known leaders and ministry speakers, this sors you (youths) are seeing a ton of confusion conference is sure to impact your approach to Soccer Camp about gender and what it means to be male and Russell D. Moore exhorts students at the D3 Youth building stronger families in your church. Visit 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., July 12-16 female,” Burk said. “Students, you are being Conference to look to Christ for strength to resist www.sbts.edu/events to register or learn more. $50 per participant temptation. Photo by Devin Maddox confronted, even when you’re not aware of it, Register at the HRC Front Desk. Th is camp is with alternate worldviews on what it means to Martha Peace featured speaker for second through fi ft h graders. be created in the image of God.” at women’s biblical counseling Eric Bancroft , senior pastor of Castleview conference Louisville Bats outing Baptist Church in Indianapolis, Ind., lead the On Aug. 23, the Center for Biblical 6:05 p.m., Friday, July 31. missions track. Bancroft told students that Counseling at Th e Southern Baptist Th eologi- $6 per ticket: tickets may be purchased at the Christian mission is going to places where wor- cal Seminary is hosting author and biblical HRC Front Desk. ship is not happening. counselor Martha Peace for a biblical counsel- “One of the strongest misconceptions ing conference. Peace will address the topics Basketball camp about missions is thinking that missions is of anxiety, depression and discipleship. Th e 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Aug. 2-6 something that happens only in remote parts conference is open to all women. Peace is the $50 per participant of the world. Missions is the proclamation co-author with SBTS professor Stuart Scott Basketball camp for rising sixth through eighth to Christ to people who don’t know Christ,” of the recently-released “Th e Faithful Parent: graders. Th is will be a mid-level camp. Register Bancroft said. A Biblical Guide to Raising a Family.” She is at the HRC Front Desk. “Th e ownership of missions is at the feet also the co-author of “Tying the Knot Tighter” of every person that claims the name of Jesus and the author of “Damsels in Distress” and • Call the HRC at 897-4720 with questions Christ.” “Th e Excellent Wife.” For more information, about scheduling and events. Bancroft walked the students through 1 visit www.sbts.edu/blog/2010/06/21/martha- • Visit the weekly calendar on the Health and Th essalonians 1:4-10 and presented the “K.I.P.” peace-featured-speaker-at-womens-biblical- Recreation Center page of the SBTS website to acronym as a way to remain active in missions: Christian artist FLAME performed at the confer- counseling-conference and click on the view see what is happening at the HRC. Know the Gospel, Illustrate the Gospel and ence. Th e Boyce College graduate will begin as a the brochure link. You may also email CBC@ • Become a fan of the HRC on Facebook and Proclaim the Gospel. student at SBTS in the fall. Photo by Devin Maddox sbts.edu or call 502-897-4608. follow us on Twitter (SBTSHealth_Rec). nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu J Julyuly 12,12, 20102010 TTOWERSOWERS 15 Towers NONPROFIT ORG. Th e Southern Baptist Th eological Seminary US POSTAGE 2825 Lexington Road · Louisville, KY 40280 PAID L&D 3Three Quest ions WITH Greg Gilbert Senior Pastor of Th ird Avenue Baptist Church, Louisville, Ky.

Greg Gilbert earned his M.Div. from South- time again, that’s what people simply don’t ern Seminary and recently accepted the posi- want to talk about, and I can’t help but think tion of senior pastor at Th ird Avenue Baptist that the reason is precisely what Paul told us Church in Louisville. Gilbert is the author of in 1 Corinthians: Th e world around us just the recently-released “What is the Gospel?” doesn’t like the idea of the cross; they don’t like the thought of God being wrathful, they don’t Why did you write “What is the Gospel?” like the thought of themselves being guilty and I wrote the book to drive a stake they don’t like the thought of being saved by a in the ground concerning the essential crucifi ed man. 1 core of the Gospel. Th ere are a lot of But that’s what Paul says is of fi rst impor- conversations going on right now about things tance, that Christ died for our sins according to that are very close to the heart of the Gospel, the Scriptures and that on the third day He rose but I think it’s important to nail down what’s again. So yes, Jesus belongs right at the center really not at issue, what we as evangelicals of the Gospel, but He’s not just Jesus the Rabbi; understand to be of fi rst importance. Th at’s He’s Jesus the Savior. Not just Jesus the Teacher, Country Brook what I’m trying to do with the book. but Jesus the Crucifi ed. Not just Jesus the King, My hope is that it will be useful in at least a but Jesus the suff ering King. If you leave that couple of ways: First, I hope it will help Chris- out, you’ve really got no Gospel at all. Apartments tians to shore up their own understanding of the Gospel, to let them know where some of the What made you include a chapter on the Best Value in the East End contemporary challenges of the Gospel are com- the Kingdom? ing from and to help them defend against those The kingdom of God is a really challenges. I hope it will be the kind of short, 3 important part of the Good News that simple and accessible resource that pastors Jesus and the apostles proclaimed. Th e Bible would be glad to encourage their church mem- tells us that Jesus came preaching, “Repent, for bers to read. Second, I wrote the book so that the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” So that’s Christians will be able to hand it to non-Chris- the main reason I included a chapter on the tian friends in order to introduce them to Jesus Kingdom: When we are saved, God transfers Christ. Hopefully it will be a good way to start us from the kingdom of darkness into the king- conversations with people about the Gospel. dom of his beloved Son. Th e blessings of the kingdom are the great reward we are promised Why do you think people like to because of what Christ has done for us. redefi ne the Gospel without Christ It’s also important to recognize that there being central? are lots and lots of people out there talking 2 Good question. It’s not so about the kingdom these days, and more than a much that people are pushing Christ out of the little of it is fl atly unbiblical — classic liberal- 1 Bedroom $489 Zero Dollar Deposit Special center of the Gospel, though. Most everyone ism warmed over. So one of the things I hope $539 w/W&D hookup (with excellent application score, fee $39). is quite content to keep Jesus at the center. Th e to do in that chapter is simply inoculate people At Country Brook Apartments, trouble is that the Jesus they so oft en want to against some of the falsehood out there by giv- 2 Bedroom $589 put at the center is Jesus the Rabbi, Jesus the ing them some basic, biblical truth about what $629 w/W&D hookup We Love Our Students. Teacher, Jesus the Social Activist or Jesus the the kingdom is and how one becomes a part All prices apply to a 12-month lease. We are located in the 7900 block of Westport Road. (mere) King. What too oft en gets shoved out of it. Th at chapter certainly doesn’t say all one 3 Bedroom $689 of its place — de-centered, redefi ned, implied could say about the Kingdom, but I hope it’ll $729 w/W&D hookup 502-425-9636 or just fl at ignored — is the cross. Time and give people a good start. Prices subject to change without notice. www.MybestApt.com • [email protected]

16 TTOWERSOWERS JJulyuly 12,12, 20102010 nnews.sbts.eduews.sbts.edu