U.S. named Pro-life evangelicals to gather on latest in nation’s capital persecution report Page 4 Page 7

JANUARY 28, 2017 • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists • VOLUME 183 NO. 2 • BRnow.org

National SBC High court URGED meetings take shape to reverse BR staff lans are well underway for the two largest annual gatherings pro-transgender ruling of Southern Baptists in 2017 – Pthe annual meeting and the pastors’ conference – both of which By TOM STRODE | Baptist Press will take place in Phoenix, Ariz., in he Southern Baptist Ethics & Virginia county violated federal law “The administration has attempted early summer. Religious Liberty Commission by refusing to permit a transgender to create new law through the execu- The annual meeting of the (ERLC) has joined with other high school student – who is a female tive branch that jeopardizes student Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Tfaith organizations to urge the biologically but identifies as a male privacy, undermines parental authority is scheduled for June 13-14. Presi- U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a – to use the boys’ restroom. In a 2-1 and further conflicts with religious dent Steve Gaines announced the lower-court ruling that a federal anti- opinion overturning a federal judge, liberty,” Wussow told Baptist Press in event’s theme in mid-December: discrimination law regarding sex cov- the Fourth Circuit panel agreed with written comments. “If any president “Pray! For such a time as this,” taken ers gender identity. an Obama administration letter in wishes to redefine what the words from Esther 4:14 and Luke 11:1. In a friend-of-the-court brief filed ruling the ban on sex discrimination ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ mean for every “The Southern Baptist Convention Jan. 10, the ERLC and its allies told in the Title IX education amendments public school in the country, he must needs to be a people of prayer,” the justices a refusal to reverse the ap- encompasses gender identity. make his case in the legislature, not a Gaines said in an interview with SBC peals court opinion in the case “would The ERLC “gladly joined in this small government office in Washing- LIFE, journal of the SBC. “Only then unleash conflicts over religious liberty important case to stand against the ton, D.C.” will God send the power we need to resembling the conflicts over same-sex Obama administration’s latest effort When it issues an opinion, the fulfill the Great Commission.” marriage” and could even marginalize to take power from Congress,” said Supreme Court may provide a defini- Phoenix has served as the annual people of faith. Travis Wussow, the ERLC’s general tive victory in a battle being waged in meeting’s host city on two previous The Supreme Court has yet to counsel and vice president for public American schools regarding transgen- occasions, 2003 and 2011, which schedule oral arguments in the case, policy. der rights – one advocates for such drew more than 7,000 and nearly which is likely to be argued in March rights have been winning 5,000 messengers, respectively. or April. If so, a decision recently. The annual meeting’s website is expected before the high About a month (sbcannualmeeting.net) provides court adjourns in late June or after the Fourth information about hotel reservations, early July. Circuit’s decision, messenger registration, a map of The Fourth Circuit the Obama admin- the convention area and other use- Court of Appeals in istration issued ful links. The site will be updated as Richmond, Va., ruled a sweeping additional details are confirmed. in April the school directive on Hotel registration opened in Oc- board of an eastern See Ruling tober. Online reservations may be page 11 made around the clock at sbc annualmeeting.net/sbc17/hotels. The Sheraton Grand Phoenix is the official convention hotel, located a block from the convention site. Hotel rates, ranging from $89 to $165 at 16 recommended hotels, are available with hotel locations on an interactive map at sbcannual meeting.net/sbc17/hotels. See SBC page 8 2 Opinion JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Rescue us from darkness atthew’s Gospel tells us that lauded them are living in the same dark- of this providential governance of your ERLC is committed to seeing the nation’s immediately after the temp- ness, the same spiritual blindness. way in the world, in America now. So largest abortion provider (Planned Par- Mtation of Jesus, He began In spite of the large number of protest- God, I ask that the church would not rely enthood Federation of America) deprived His public ministry quoting Isaiah 9:2, ers in many cities, the marches appeared on government and would not rely on a of federal funds.” saying, “The people who sat in darkness have to be little more than a platform for the Trump presidency. Another Sanctity of Human Life goal is seen a great light, and upon those who sat in the ungodly to protest the ungodliness they “I pray for evangelical leaders not to to see a pro-life Supreme Court nominee region and shadow of death, Light has dawned” see in President Donald Trump’s past. celebrate Donald Trump’s presidency presented to the Congress. Four other (Matthew 4:16). If someone’s rights were with no apparent qualification, no tears, goals are identified with the last one, the Then Jesus immediately violated, the women’s protests no brokenness, no sadness, that he set “Mexico City Policy,” which President began to preach on repentance, would be justified. Absent a such an awful example for this land.” Trump signed three days after his inaugu- according to the scriptures. decent reason to protest, we We join Piper in his prayer. ration. Darkness is an important only see undisciplined anger There is darkness in the land and in The second category is religious word in the Bible. In creation, and childish whining because the hearts of many leaders – politicians, liberty. ERLC staff will push to repeal God conquered the darkness they did not get what they singers, actors, business people, church the U.S. Department of Health and by making light. Throughout wanted. What is the value people – the list is endless. The darkness Human Services Mandate, support the history, individual people and in all of the noise? Has their can be defeated. We know because that Conscience Protection Act, oppose the whole nations were described behavior actually galvanized is the testimony of every person who has Department of Education’s interpretation as people living in spiritual K. ALLAN BLUME Trump supporters and pushed welcomed the grace of God, repented of Title IX, confront the sexual revolution darkness. Editor some borderline supporters of sin and experienced the new birth dogma in the military and restore Russell Before we came to know firmly into his camp? through Jesus. Amendment protections. Jesus Christ personally, we lived in dark- In contrast to the protests, John Piper, There is much work ahead for our The other categories are family and ness. But Paul said God “... rescued us from who is an author and retired pastor, newly elected president and Congress. marriage, justice, and international en- the domain of darkness, and transferred us to prayed an impromptu prayer for the na- In spite of the displeasure of some, they gagement. Targeted legislation includes the kingdom of His beloved Son,” (Colossians tion while in a small gathering of his staff are our leaders. We must move forward, women in combat, the Civil Rights 1:13). When we followed Jesus’ call to at Desiring God ministry. The prayer has seeking the face of God every day in the Uniformity Act, Criminal Justice Reform, repentance, God gave us His light. been widely circulated. I want to share a spirit of Romans 13. Payday Lending, the Iraq and Syria Geno- It does not take much discernment to portion of it with you. The Ethics and Religious Liberty Com- cide Emergency Relief and Accountabil- know that spiritual darkness is domi- Piper asked the Heavenly Father, mission (ERLC) of the Southern Baptist ity Act, reauthorization of the Traffick- nating the United States of America. As “... that [Y]our name would be hallowed Convention recently published their 2017 ing Victims Protection Act and fighting recent evidence, review the Women’s in Washington, and hallowed by Donald Legislative Agenda. I would like to point global antisemitism. A complete copy of March on Washington on Jan. 21. At the Trump and his family, his cabinet, the out some highlights of the report and in- the 2017 Legislative Agenda is available at event and at simultaneous rallies across congress; that [Y]our kingdom would vite you to pray for this ministry and the ERLC.com. the country, speakers were profane in come, that [Y]our will would be done leaders they influence in our country. Pray for the leaders who serve us in their speech and vile in their message. there. The opening paragraph says the Washington, our states and our commu- Profound hypocrisy characterized the “To that end Lord, we ask that [Y]ou agenda is not exhaustive, but “provides nities. Pray for those who live in dark- events. would bring Donald Trump out of dark- insight into the range of issues the ERLC ness. Our responsibility is to be the light Performing at the Washington march, ness and into light. Give him a spirit of will focus on this year.” The first cat- and to introduce them to the One who is the singer Madonna told the crowd she brokenness and humility. ‘Unless you turn egory, labeled Sanctity of Human Life, the light of the world. had “thought an awful lot about blow- and become like children, you will never enter itemizes six legislative initiatives. The Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. He ing up the White the kingdom of heaven’ first target is the defunding of Planned who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but House” but that it (Matthew 18:3). ‘Un- Parenthood. The summary reads, “The have the light of life” (John 8:12). wouldn’t change less one is born again he anything, in her cannot see the kingdom opinion. of God’ (John 3:3). Everything about “I pray that you her message ex- would break his (ISSN 0279-8182) Volume 183 No. 2 uded darkness and heart, give him News Journal of the Baptist State Convention (919) 847-2127 confusion. Christian humility, show him Fax (919) 467-6180 what it feels like of North Carolina women had every Founded 1833 by Thomas Meredith now.org reason to avoid the to be penitent and K. Allan Blume, Editor/President Board of Directors: Lee Pigg, chair; Nate Jones, vice event and be of- to admit he’s done [email protected] chair; Angela Brady, secretary; David Clary, treasurer; fended by the bad wrong – to confess Kevin Atchley; Kelli Benfield; Christina Brown; Frankie Seth Brown, Content Editor characterizations of he was wrong, ask (919) 459-5697; [email protected] Gordon; Lisa Harris; Gerald Hodges; Tony Honeycutt; forgiveness from Todd Houston; Dan Meyer; Jim Pennington Jr.; Michael women the speakers Dianna L. Cagle, Production Editor Smith; Marilyn Thurman; Aaron Wallace; Tammy Weeks; painted. [Y]ou, and ask for (919) 459-5698; [email protected] Keith Whitfield and Ed Yount Any responsible forgiveness from Alison McKinney Liz Tablazon Subscriptions person would be the people that he’s Business and Circulation Manager • Individual subscriptions, $15.99 (one year); $27.99 (two Advertising Manager (919) 459-5693 years); $39.99 (three years) cautious to make wounded or people • Bulk Plan, $11.50 • Club Plan, $13.50 (919) 459-5691 [email protected] • Family Plan, $12.50 • Single copies, .60 cents each such careless com- that he’s set a bad [email protected] example for. He Payable in advance. N.C. sales tax is included. ments. Laura Crowther Kelly Hunter Digital rates: $5.99 (one year); $10.99 (two years); $15.99 So far, secular media has given Ma- needs to be given the gift of faith and Editorial Aide Graphic Designer (three years). donna a pass. Either they brush her off as humility and repentance, and I pray that Publication irresponsible or they quietly agree with [Y]ou would give it to him.” Published biweekly on Saturdays by Biblical Recorder Inc., 205 Convention Drive, Cary, NC 27511, as her. Piper prayed that God would authorized by the Baptist State Convention in annual session at Winston-Salem, November 21-23, 1939. It is obvious that Madonna, actress “... surprise even [Trump] at what is able Periodicals postage paid at Raleigh, NC 27676. Ashley Judd – who also spoke at the to be brought about. Protect him from Postmaster Washington rally – and the women who the deceptions of the Evil One at the level Send address changes to Biblical Recorder Inc., P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC 27512-1185. JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Opinion 3 Our differences & our mission

esus: to the Neighborhood and the difficult but we can do it. We love because we have Nations” was the cry during the 2012 been loved by God. We go because He came. And that “JSouthern Baptist Convention (SBC) an- saving love compels us to tell others about that divine Bearing God’s image, nual meeting in New Orleans. That cry for missions love. and cooperation encapsulates the heart of That’s why we seek to work with those Southern Baptists since the days of men like who may disagree with us on non-gospel racial reconciliation Jesse Mercer and women like Lottie Moon. and non-ecclesiological issues. Together n Sun., Feb. 12, we will observe Racial Reconcilia- It was during that SBC when I heard we can accomplish far more than what tion Sunday, a time when we come together before seminary president Danny Akin say to a we can accomplish by ourselves. It can be Othe Lord and our brothers and sisters and work group of pastors: Within Southern Baptist messy, but it is glorious. It can be painful, toward being more united in Christ. life we have different theological ideas. We but it is rewarding. It is heartbreaking to think about the racial injustice in disagree on different issues but we agree on We Southern Baptists must keep in our nation’s history. Even today, I know that racism is an the gospel and the urgency of missions. mind that the Christian life is a life of issue that continues to detrimentally affect so many. We I remember saying to a friend, that’s repentance. And a spirit of repentance should pray that God will pour His healing balm upon the the kind of spirit and leadership we need should mark our interactions within our EDGAR APONTE wounds and atrocities that have been caused by racial strife – in our churches. We want to bring people local churches and denominational activi- Guest Column throughout the world, our nation and in our own state. together rather than divide ourselves over ties. Let’s love one another because we I firmly believe that racism goes directly against every non-gospel issues. The gospel makes us can. We cooperate for something that is aspect of the gospel – and it is sinful. one, and that gospel compels us to go to reach our greater than ourselves, the glory of the Triune God Our Lord desires that we love each neighborhood and the nations for King Jesus. among the nations. other as Jesus loved us, and that each But the reality is, even for redeemed sinners like Let’s work together knowing that our ministry person should “esteem others better than us, this work of cooperation is challenging. is not only impacting the next 10 years, but the next himself” (Philippians 2:3). It requires personal sacrifices and humility; it 10,000 years and more. For this reason, each of us should requires a heart that is slow to be offended and quick (EDITOR’S NOTE – Edgar Aponte, @EdgarRAponte, is look to our Heavenly Father this Sun- to forgive. Cooperation toward missions is like love; the International Mission Board’s vice president of mobiliza- day and ask Him to point out anything it demands intentionality and patience. It can be tion.) in our attitudes that could be a barrier or stumbling block to working together with those of other races. All human Keys to Dabo Swinney’s success MILTON A. beings were made in God’s image, and here’s so much more to the cliffhanger family and a stable home quickly diminished when HOLLIFIELD JR. if we do not show love and respect to national championship college football game her husband, Ervil Swinney, turned to alcohol to cope BSC executive an individual from any ethnic group, T that captured the attention of millions on with his problems. director-treasurer we fail to bring glory to our Lord in Jan. 9. The Clemson Tigers entered the game as the Swinney, his mom and brothers were left to fend this area of our life and gospel testi- underdog and defeated the most dominant college for themselves. At times they were homeless. Those mony. All individuals who have accepted Christ as Savior are football program in a decade, the Alabama Crimson experiences instilled fierce determination in Swinney one through the blood of Christ and in the bond of Christ. Tide. to provide for his mother, and to win back Our Lord desires that we see beyond the differences in skin The victory began years ago in the towns his father by making him proud. color, languages, customs and cultures in our acceptance of of Pelham, Ala., and Gainesville, Ga., with Determination is what compelled others. It is time that we confess our sin of any discrimina- two young boys whose lives would feature Swinney to walk on at The University of tive prejudice that we secretly harbor toward others, even if significant trials and adversity. Alabama and become a first-string wide we are this way because we were raised in a Southern culture In a chapel sermon delivered by former receiver who played a role in their 1992 that once gave approval. NFL player C.L. “Shep” Shepherd earlier national championship victory. Let us celebrate the fact that God chose to create different this season, Clemson players and coaches After becoming a coach at Alabama, then races and cultures! Chris Green of The Summit Church has in heard a message about adversity. losing his position in a leadership turn- the past encouraged Southern Baptists to strive for oneness, “The best teacher in life is not success, “ over, Swinney landed a job under Tommy rather than sameness (http://bit.ly/RacialReconcilliation), and I he proclaimed. “It’s adversity.” Bowden as the assistant wide receiver’s hope we will all put his words into action this Sunday. That message rang loud and clear when GINNY DENT BRANT coach for Clemson in 2003. Some years ago, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Clemson was unexpectedly beaten by Guest Column Bowden resigned mid-season five years formally and publically denounced racism, saying that “we the unranked Pittsburgh Panthers. What later, and much to the surprise of Clemson affirm the Bible’s teaching that every human life is sacred, should have been an easy win for the Tigers became fans, Swinney was named interim head coach. After and is of equal and immeasurable worth, made in God’s im- an obstacle that proved to make them stronger. winning the program’s respect, he was offered the age, regardless of race or ethnicity (Genesis 1:27), and that, Coach Dabo Swinney was born to a mother, Carol, full-time position and began rebuilding a program with respect to salvation through Christ, there is neither Jew who at an early age overcame polio. Her dreams of a with great potential. nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither Swinney eventually reunited with his father. He male nor female, for (we) are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians Submissions calls forgiveness “One of the greatest gifts we have 3:28).” (http://bit.ly/SBCresolution) from God.” I am grateful for the progress we have made in destroying for Tar Heel Voices Swinney’s father came to faith later and turned his racial hatred, but I am painfully aware that we still have quite life around before his death to cancer in 2015. He even a distance to go. Please send no more than 300 words, along lived with Swinney during cancer treatments – a time There is still much work to do. Will you pray for racial with contact information, to editor@BRnow. of healing for both. reconciliation this Sunday? Ask the Lord to use you personal- org or Biblical Recorder, P.O. Box 1185, Cary, NC Swinney’s wife of 23 years, Kathleen, also felt the ly to help advance our churches toward racial reconciliation. 27512-1185. Only one letter from the same sting of loss when her sister lost a nine-year battle to Pray that we will be able to see each other the way that God writer will be published in a 90-day period. cancer. sees us – as image bearers of God, and as brothers and sisters All submissions will be edited by Recorder style After her sister’s breast cancer diagnosis, Kathleen in Christ regardless of our ethnic differences. guidelines. Have questions? Call (919) 847- and her younger sister underwent genetic testing “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He cre- 2127. and discovered they also had the gene with links to ated him; male and female He created them” – Genesis 1:27. See Swinney page 6 4 JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists U.S. named on latest persecution report BR staff anywhere near the same level of persecution” as some Islamic extremism but has the effect of placing “incred- other countries, but recent events “indicate declining ible restrictions” on Christians and other religious he United States ranks for the first time among religious freedom and are cause for alarm.” people not affiliated with the Russian Orthodox Church. the worst countries in the world at protecting Examples of persecution in the U.S. included media Mexico’s infringements included non-enforcement T religious freedom, according to a new report by backlash against Christians for creating an “anti-LGBTQ of religious liberty protections in rural areas where International Christian Concern (ICC). atmosphere” after a Muslim-American who claimed al- residents have been coerced by violence and others The non-denominational Christian aid and advocacy legiance to the Islamic State killed 49 people and injured means to participate in village ceremonies considered by group recently released the 2016 Hall of Shame report many more in an attack on a gay nightclub in Orlando, Christians to be pagan or even satanic. on its website, Persecution.org, which highlights the U.S., Fla. ICC also highlighted various examples of Christians Iraq and Syria were listed as some of the worst na- along with Russia and Mexico, in a “New and Notewor- and other religious people being “marginalized through tions in the world for severe religious persecution. thy” category of nations where religious liberties are the law.” “Christianity in Iraq and Syria is on the verge of declining. The report detailed, “From the case of a Christian extinction as a result of atrocities by [the Islamic State], The document classifies the world’s 12 “worst per- football coach suspended for praying at the 50-yard line, other militant Islamic groups and a widespread increase secutors” under three headings: “Worst of the Worst,” to Christian business owners forced to pay a $135,000 in radical Islamic thought,” the report said. which includes countries like Syria and North Korea; fine for declining to bake a cake for a same-sex wedding, Many Christians have been taken hostage or killed, “Core Countries,” a category for regular abusers of the number of troubling cases directed toward Chris- but the “vast majority” fled their countries as refugees, religious freedom such as China, India and Saudi Arabia; tians has exploded.” according to the report. and the “New and Noteworthy” category for significant Russia’s 2016 Yarovaya Law was cited as the principal View the full document here: persecution.org/ but less dangerous offenders. religious liberty threat in the former Soviet Union. The persecutionnl/2017-01/ICC%202016%20Hall%20of%20Shame%20 The ICC said the U.S., Russia and Mexico are “not legislation expands counter-terrorism measures against Report.pdf. Walker joins Lankford as prayer caucus leader

Baptist Press dom for religious schools and employers’ hiring rights, according to a release from nother Southern Baptist has Lankford’s office. stepped up to provide leader- Walker gained election to the House A ship for the Congressional in 2014 after serving Southern Baptist Prayer Caucus. churches for about 15 years in such roles Rep. Mark Walker, R.-N.C., will be as executive pastor, as well as lead pastor the new House of Representatives co- of a church plant. He most recently was chairman of the caucus; it was announced associate pastor of music and worship at Jan. 9. Sen. James Lankford, R.-Okla., the Lawndale Baptist Church in Greensboro, other co-chairman of the prayer caucus, N.C. and former Rep. Randy Forbes, R.-Va., The second-term congressman said in made the announcement. All three are the release he looks forward to “fighting members of Southern Baptist churches. to protect one of the foundations of our Rep. Mark Walker, left, will join Sen. James Lankford as co-chair of the Congressional Prayer Caucus. Forbes, a seven-term congressman, First Amendment” as the caucus’ co- (Provided photo) founded the caucus in 2005 to help chairman. protect the right of people to exercise “Though politics can be divisive at policy, as well as culture.” expression by military service members; their religious belief and pray freely. The times, prayer should be a uniting force In 2015, Lankford became the first defending the rights of student religious caucus had more than 90 members in for Congress and for our nation,” Walker member of the Senate to join the caucus. ministries at secular universities; and the last congressional session. Walker is said. He won a special election in 2014 to com- gaining reversal of a policy that prevented replacing Forbes, who lost in the Re- Forbes said in the release, “Freedom plete a Senate term and was elected to a people from distributing religious mate- publican primary last year in his bid for of conscience is part of who we are as a full term in 2016. rial during visits to Walter Reed National re-election. nation, and we must preserve this funda- During its first 11 years, the Con- Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Russell Moore, president of the Eth- mental freedom in our nation. That’s why gressional Prayer Caucus’ efforts have Md. Walker is also the new chairman ics & Religious Liberty Commission, I founded the Prayer Caucus. Today, the included: helping pass a bill to confirm of the Republican Study Committee, a expressed his gratitude for the leadership strength and size of the Caucus is a testa- “In God We Trust” as the national motto; caucus for conservative House GOP mem- Forbes and Lankford have provided to ment to the importance of protecting and successfully working to protect religious bers. the Congressional Prayer Caucus. preserving our nation’s Judeo-Christian “I’m overjoyed to see Congressman heritage.” Forbes’ tireless work in praying and Lankford – the director of the Bap- speaking on religious freedom issues will tist General Convention of Oklahoma’s be continued by the new leadership of Falls Creek Baptist Conference Center Congressman Mark Walker,” Moore said for 13 years before his 2010 election to in a written statement. “I’m honored to the House – welcomed Walker as co- call Congressman Walker a friend who chairman and expressed his gratitude for represents Southern Baptists and all Forbes. people of faith with excellence, integrity “America is stronger because of his and skill in the United States Congress. commitment to creating this Caucus, and “This important caucus is raising being a consistent champion for religious awareness of the dire state of religious freedom,” Lankford said in the release. freedom around the world.” “Our nation is a diverse country that The caucus intends to advocate this values the freedom to have faith or have year for religious liberty on such issues as no faith at all. It is vitally important that health-care conscience protections, free- Congress respects these values in public JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptist 5 Report: Abortion rate hits all-time low

By TOM STRODE | Baptist Press the truth of what unborn human life is In 2016, 43 states considered more The Guttmacher report also included and matching that call with real ministry than 360 abortion-related measures, ac- the following information: he abortion rate in the United to women in crisis. While a lower rate is cording to AUL’s annual report released • Nearly half – 45 percent – of all States declined to an all-time undoubtedly good news, the violent tak- Jan 10. The bills introduced included abortions in the first nine weeks of gesta- T low, while the number of lethal ing of the life of even one unborn child such measures as bans on government tion were performed using pills, and the procedures dropped below a million for ought to cause us to weep and redouble funding of abortion, restrictions on late- percentage of such nonhospital abortions the first time since 1975, according to a our efforts to protect every human life term abortions, ultrasound requirements increased from 24 percent in 2011 to 31 new report. and contend against the predatory abor- and prohibitions on abortions based on percent in 2014. The Guttmacher Institute reported tion industry.” sex, race or genetic abnormality. • The abortion rate declined between Jan. 17 the rate fell to 14.6 abortions per Americans United for Life (AUL), the The Guttmacher Institute, which is 2011 and 2014 in all but six states and the 1,000 women 15 to 44 years old in 2014, country’s leader in helping state legisla- affiliated with the abortion rights move- District of Columbia. which is a decline of 14 percent since its tors pass pro-life laws, cited such poli- ment, suggested the improved use of con- • Ninety percent of all U.S. counties in most recent survey in 2011. In its census cies, as well as technology, in explaining traceptives attributed to the falling rate 2014 contained no abortion clinic. of all known abortion providers in the the trend. and total, but it also acknowledged state • Five states – Mississippi, Missouri, country, Guttmacher found abortions to- “Research has shown that life-affirm- regulations and the declining number of North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyo- taled 958,700 in 2013 and 926,190 in 2014. ing laws do have an impact on lowering abortion clinics may have contributed. ming – had only one abortion clinic each The abortion rate reached its zenith at the number of abortions, and with all the “Abortion restrictions and clinic in 2014. 29.3 in 1980 and ’81, and the total number life-affirming laws passed since 2010, we closures mean that patients may need to • The number of abortion clinics fell of abortions peaked at more than 1.6 mil- have a reason to celebrate the number travel greater distances to access servic- by 17 percent from 2011 to 2014 lion in 1990, according to Guttmacher. of lives saved and women protected as es,” said Rachel Jones, lead author of the • Abortion clinics made up 16 percent Pro-life advocates welcomed the re- legislators worked to defend them from a study, in a written release. “The majority of all abortion facilities in 2014 but pro- port and pointed to the work of pro-life predatory and rarely accountable abor- of abortion patients – 75% – are poor or vided 59 percent of all abortions. citizens and legislators as a reason for the tion industry,” AUL Acting President low-income, and nearly two-thirds are al- The Guttmacher Institute acknowl- dramatic decline in abortions and their Clark Forsythe said in a written state- ready parents. It can be very difficult for edged its report has limitations. For rate. “The falling abortion number is due ment. “But another factor in lower[ing] them to arrange for time off from work, instance, it reported only 58 percent of to the ceaseless advocacy and ministry of the number of abortions is the power transportation and child care. While facilities it believes provided abortions in the pro-life community in neighborhoods of beautiful pictures of life inside the many find ways to access care despite 2014 responded to the survey. Guttmach- all around this country,” said Russell womb, through ultrasound,” he said. these obstacles, some of the abortion rate er used state health department informa- Moore, president of the Southern Baptist “Such pictures are worth more than a decline is likely attributable to women tion for 20 percent of facilities and made Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission thousand words when it comes to help- who were prevented from accessing estimates on another 17 percent. (ERLC). “The pro-life movement ad- ing people understand whose lives are on needed services.” While the Guttmacher report is based vances by calling out to consciences with the line.” The good news for pro-lifers came partly on estimates, it covers all 50 only five days before the anniversary of states. The federal Centers for Disease Roe v. Wade – the Supreme Court’s Jan. 22, Control and Prevention (CDC), which 1973, decision that legalized abortion na- also reported a decline in abortions in tionwide – and the observance of Sancti- its December announcement, does not ty of Human Life Sunday on the Southern require states to provide information Baptist Convention calendar. on abortions. Three states – California, It also arrived shortly before the sec- Maryland and New Hampshire – did not ond annual Evangelicals for Life confer- provide data to the CDC. Forsythe said ence Jan 26-28 in Washington, D.C. (See the country needs “a more complete pic- more about the conference and its speak- ture of the impact of abortion on women, ers on page 7.) Conference attendees will through verifiable tracking.” be able to participate in the Jan. 27 March Visit guttmacher.org/journals/psrh/2017/01/ for Life. abortion-incidence-and-service-availability- united-states-2014.

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Swinney Continued from page 3 the disease. Realizing this gave her a 90 al Championship victory, Dabo said, “It’s his wife – “My rock who has stood by Never has that been truer than Jan. 9. percent chance of developing breast can- been an unbelievable night. All of our me even when I didn’t have a car or was And the Freedom From Religion Foun- cer, Kathleen made the difficult decision teams get a piece of this trophy.” living at a friend’s house” – and his three dation is eating crow as God’s message to endure a hysterectomy and double He makes it a priority to train play- sons. through His messengers is reaching out mastectomy. ers to be successful in all aspects of their Swinney even mentioned his late to a world enamored by sports. It’s a Adversity was not only limited to the lives – work, community service and father: “I know he is here.” message of hope for all who face adver- coach and his family, but also Clemson’s their families. Shep’s inspiring message earlier in the sity. five-star quarterback, Deshaun Watson. Swinney, a committed local church season was God’s way of preparing this God can make a difference in our Born the eldest son of a single mom, member, is unashamed of his commit- team for a greater ultimate victory – one lives, and His creation of the family is an Watson took on many responsibilities. It ment to Christ, which he made through in which He would be glorified. important building block. Adversity is was Habitat for Humanity and his moth- the influence of the Fellowship of Chris- My father, Harry Dent, who was trans- a powerful teacher that can develop you er’s hard work that provided a home for tian Athletes in high school. formed from a politician to God’s king- into what God created you to be. the family of five. It also provided escape In 2014, Swinney’s faith was chal- dom strategist always gave this example (EDITOR’S NOTE – Ginny Dent Brant is a from crime and drugs. lenged by the Freedom From Religion in encouraging Christians to be salt and writer and speaker. Her book about her spiritual Responsibilities increased for Watson foundation, but he held firm. As a man light in this world: journey with her father, Harry S. Dent Sr., when his mother was diagnosed with of conviction he said, “I try to be a good “Your pastor is the coach and you are Finding True Freedom: From the White tongue cancer during his sophomore year example to others and to live my life ac- the team. As you play the game of life, House to the World, was released in 2010. in high school. cording to my faith.” remember that folks around you in the She is a former trustee of the International Mis- “I was scared,” Watson recalls. “Coaching,” he said, “Was God’s call- stadium are watching every play you sion Board. She and her husband, Alton, live His mother’s fight inspired Watson to ing for me.” make. In this way, you will be His salt in Clemson/Seneca, S.C. More info at ginny- do the same in his football career. Known Watson came to faith in Christ in the and His light in a darkening world.” brant.com.) for being calm under fire, Watson’s ninth grade – a decision that changed his motivation made him a finalist for the path. Both coach and quarterback gave Heisman Trophy two times, winner of credit where credit is due on national WHY PASTORS AND CHURCHES OFTEN the Davey O’Brien Quarterback Award television in the first moments after win- DON’T GET ALONG twice and the recipient of the 2016 Bobby ning the title. Bowden Award. Speechless at first, Watson said, “It What Swinney lacked in childhood, was what God wanted. It’s far bigger “If You treat me like this, please kill me to want to get rid of him? Well, it he was determined to provide for his than us.” here and now …” (Moses in Numbers seems that churches and pastors often family. As a devoted husband and father, Swinney’s words echoed that senti- 11:15). don’t get along because he doesn’t his family usually travels with the team, ment, “Only God,” he said, “Can take a make them happy. That’s right. He and he involves his sons as game score guy like me … I’m thankful to the good hen pastors are terminated doesn’t make them happy. trackers. But that family atmosphere also Lord.” from their churches, some- They thought he could fix things extends to how he treats coaching staff Alabama’s tenacious defense tried ev- times it’s easy to see what in their lives and in their church. He and players. erything in their power to stop Watson, W went wrong and other times no one couldn’t. When he doesn’t arrive at The team is infused with a family- but his words in the huddle will never be knows exactly what hap- the hospital to visit, he focus making everyone feel part of the forgotten. pened. doesn’t make them happy. team, treated with respect and given high “Don’t panic,” he said, “We were But one thing is for sure, When his preaching hits too expectations. The team usually watches built for moments like these. … Let’s be church leaders and pastors close to home, or never hits an inspiring movie together the night legendary.” usually blame each other for home, he doesn’t make them before a game. Clemson scored 21 points in the last the collapse. happy. Swinney expects players to attend quarter as part of a memorable comeback. It seems like it would When he changes things class, make an effort and be good citi- The winning touchdown was scored take something sizeable to too soon, he doesn’t make zens. Each staff member has a picture of by the five-star quarterback’s pass to a fire your spiritual leader, them happy. their family outside their door. walk-on wide receiver, Hunter Renfrow, like moral failure or unethi- You get the idea. They Through family focus, Swinney pro- who had overcome his own obstacles. cal or illegal behavior. Not chose him, and now they’re vides players with the support and role Renfrow entered Clemson’s program at EDDIE THOMPSON even close. disappointed. However, it’s models many never had. 5’11” and 155 pounds, making him vulner- Some of the reasons not a new story. Even still, expectations are high. And able to a “runt” mentality. church leaders give for terminat- Moses sometimes made the Israel- don’t be late for any meeting or team That play gained Renfrow hero status ing a pastor include: he’s not a good ites very angry, especially over water meal or you’d better have a good excuse. in the eyes of fans, not to mention the preacher, he has a big ego and won’t and food. Once he even begged God Former players are welcomed back to cover of Sports Illustrated. He also ac- listen and he never shows up when to kill him if things were going to stay visit the family they established while knowledged God in his comments after people are in the hospital. as they were. But Moses knew that there. It’s just a part of Swinney’s “all in” the game. Pastors frequently say they don’t keeping people happy wasn’t the same philosophy. After thanking God, Swinney thanked know what happened. They may say as them having miraculous encounters In a press conference after the Nation- his mom, calling her “a special lady,” things like the church never got over with God. Christian persecution increases; North Korea still No. 1 their last pastor. One group in the Moses knew God was the only one church was behind me, but another who could meet their needs. Good Baptist Press Watch List from Open Doors USA came never liked me. I could never please pastors know that and help people as religious freedom advocates call for these people no matter what I did. understand it, too. orth Korea ranks as the most President-elect Donald Trump to act in Admittedly, all these reasons con- (EDITOR’S NOTE – Eddie Thompson Ndangerous country for Christians the first 100 days of his administration tain some truth, but none of them are is a pastoral ministries consultant for the for the 16th consecutive time after a year to protect Christians and other people of the real truth. Baptist State Convention of North Carolina. in which the persecution of followers of faith overseas. About 215 million Chris- What is the real truth? Why do Contact him at ethompson@ncbaptist. Jesus continued to rise, according to a tians underwent “high, very high or people get so angry at pastors, enough org or (800) 395-5102, ext. 5644.) new report. Release of the annual World extreme persecution” last year. JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 7 Pro-life evangelicals to gather in nation’s capital

is “Respecting human dignity through The public square is an uncivil place in By SETH BROWN | BR Content Editor civil discourse.” When life or death many ways. That’s why the proverb, “A he Southern Baptist Ethics & issues like abortion and euthanasia are soft answer turns away wrath,” is one of Religious Liberty Commission part of the current cultural conversa- the most familiar yet neglected. I mean, T (ERLC) partnered with Focus tion, is civility really that important? who does that? “A soft answer” – that’s a on the Family to host their second annual revolutionary thing to say. Evangelicals for Life Conference Jan. The reason we care about these is- In reality, most of what we do is 26-28 in conjunction with the 2017 March A: sues is because of what we believe respond with the same attitude as the for Life in Washington D.C. to be true. The reason we ought to be person who is challenging us. The idea of The conference features more than civil is because of what we believe to be offering a soft answer doesn’t even occur 50 speakers and panelists, including true. In other words, it’s not a strategy, it to us many times because of our human ERLC President Russell Moore; Jim Daly, is a requirement because every person we nature. president of Focus on the Family; Matt meet is made in the image and likeness We’re now in a culture-wide dis- Chandler, teaching pastor of The Village of God. course that lacks civility. Church in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and That’s not a negotiable fact in the The third thing is understanding that president of church planting network Christian worldview. It’s central. It’s one we’re not just dealing with disagree- Acts 29; Jennifer Marshall, vice president of the central questions of any world- ments about specifics. We’re dealing of The Heritage Foundation; and many view – “Who are we? What is a human with disagreements about universals. more. person?” We’re not just talking about the color of a Speaker and panel session topics Every single person, as C.S. Lewis ob- building’s paint job. We’re talking about include legislative and judicial issues, served, is someone eternal who reflects the building’s foundation, to use that human trafficking, foster care, adoption, the image of God, who bears inherent metaphor. crisis pregnancy dignity of being an When we disagree on who gets into ministry, pro-life image bearer. So, which bathroom or the definition of church leadership civility is not an marriage, these are surface level indica- and others. option. It’s not a tions that we’re disagreeing on the most The event sched- strategy. important questions in human history – In an age in which the discourse has ule reserves a block We need to un- questions about the meaning of life, the become so uncivil and politically divi- of time for attendees derstand, too, that purpose of our existence, morality and sive, it’s kind of all-or-nothing. There’s to participate in the when you start talk- norms. These aren’t just small disagree- no room for people who agree on certain 44th Annual March ing about the darker ments. things but not on the whole package – the for Life on Jan. 27. cultural moments The public discourse right now is di- whole Republican package or Democratic Organizers encour- throughout church vided by opinions on the most important package. Christians need to be clearer age participants to history, and even questions of any culture. We’re dealing than that. join tens of thou- some of the issues with very deep rifts. And we’re deal- We can’t just go down the party line sands of pro-life we’re dealing with ing with them in a culture in which the because that’s where the platform is. We advocates for a rally near the Washington today, you can be as civil as you want and discourse has already gotten out of hand, need to have the ability to discern and Monument at noon, followed by a march it’s not going to work. There are few peo- and we’re using tools that are inadequate distinguish between those things that are along the National Mall to the steps of ple more civil than Baronelle Stutzman, to treat people well. What could possibly essential and those that aren’t. the United States Supreme Court. the florist grandmother [who was sued go wrong? The other thing is there’s just no sub- To offer a snapshot of the conference, for refusing to make floral arrangements stitute for relational capital. If you tend the Biblical Recorder interviewed event for a same-sex wedding], and yet she’s Can you offer any practical tips to know someone and know the names of speaker John Stonestreet, president of still called a bigot, intolerant and hateful. Q: on how to sustain civil dis- their children, you’re probably less apt to the Colson Center for Christian World- Civility doesn’t win the day. You’re course when we disagree passionately send out a tweet that is uncivil. view. Below is the lightly edited tran- civil because of what is true about human with someone over pro-life issues? We need to get past the devices that script. people. separate us into places where we can ac- We don’t want to pretend like tually look each other in the eyeball and Why does the Colson Center Why do you think people are A: those deep rifts don’t exist. The know each other’s name and think about Q: exist? Q: tempted to become uncivil in answer is not just, “Well, be nice.” We’re what’s best for each other. public discourse? dealing with issues in which there is an In our culture, there’s not always the To help Christians think clearly awful lot at stake, including human des- opportunity to get to know people with A: about culture and act in a way The mediums of communica- tiny, human value, dignity and so on. To whom you deeply disagree. We need to that helps to restore the culture. This A: tion we use lend themselves to pretend like there is really no disagree- be razor sharp and laser clear on this idea is one of the legacies of Chuck Colson. incivility, or either a lack of caring about ment is foolish. that every single person is made in the After spending so many years in prison, civility. For example, Twitter allows us to We need to be clear. The level of clar- image and likeness of God. [the former special counsel to President be anonymous. We feel like we’re talking ity that we need is as great as ever. Part Now is the time for clarity, courage Richard Nixon] wanted to start focusing to a handle instead of a real person. We of that clarity, then, is understanding the and conviction – and that should lead us on what was happening in the culture say things on social media that we would difference between those things that are to compassion. We’ve got to have it now, that was creating an alarming spike in the never say to someone’s face. It’s mainly political divides and those that are theo- because the issues that we’re debating prison population. We carry on that part because of that illusion of anonymity. So, logical essentials. are so important. of his legacy, helping to bring clarity to at some level, it’s the mechanics of what the church on what’s happening in the we use. Not able to attend culture through the lens of a Christian Another thing is that the cultural Evangelicals for Life in person? worldview. conversation has lacked civility for so long, we think it’s the rules of the game. Visit evangelicals.life/simulcast/ to register The title of your talk at the 2017 We’re not thinking differently on how to for a free simulcast. Q: Evangelicals for Life conference engage the public square. 8 JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists LifeWay releases new Christian Standard Bible

assured they have a translation that communicates “We know millions of pastors, teachers and Bible By AARON EARLS | LifeWay ancient truths to a contemporary audience as faithfully readers have a commitment to God’s Word. At LifeWay, ifeWay Christian Resources released its newly and clearly as possible,” Wax said. we share that commitment. revised Bible translation recently. More than 100 Bible scholars from 17 denominations “Because God’s Word is faithful and true, we wanted L The full text of the Christian Standard Bible translated the HCSB from the original Hebrew and to provide a translation that is faithful to the original (CSB) is available at CSBible.com, with print versions Greek manuscripts. See Bible page 11 releasing in early March. The CSB revision and oversight committee, a team of As a revision of the Holman Christian Standard top biblical scholars, incorporated advances in bibli- Bible (HCSB), the CSB balances linguistic precision cal scholarship since the original translation, as well as to the original languages and input from Bible scholars, pastors and readers to pro- readability in contemporary vide an accurate and readable English. translation. “We believe this is a trans- “This team has delivered a lation that combines accuracy translation that hits the sweet and readability without com- spot between fidelity and promise,” said Trevin Wax, readability,” Wax said. Bible and reference publisher Tom Schreiner, professor at B&H Publishing Group, of New Testament interpreta- part of LifeWay Christian tion at The Southern Baptist Resources. Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky., and David Independent research from the Global Bible Initiative Allen, dean and professor of preaching at Southwestern reported the CSB had the best combination of adher- Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, co- ence to the original text and readability for a modern chaired the multi-denominational committee. audience. LifeWay President and CEO Thom S. Rainer said he “With the CSB, Bible readers and teachers can rest was excited about the release of the CSB. Danny Akin reminds students SBC Continued from page 1

to ‘be doers of the Word’ Housing may be reserved at special convention rates Turning to the familiar parable of the house on the through May 17. By HARPER MCKAY | SEBTS sand in Matthew 7, Akin warned against amassing Organizers for the 2017 Southern Baptist Convention aculty and staff of Southeastern Baptist Theo- knowledge of God’s word without applying it to one’s Pastors’ Conference have been busy as well. logical Seminary (SEBTS) and The College at life. Attendees to last year’s conference voted to chart a FSoutheastern welcomed students to a new spring “It is not enough just to hear the Word, just to study new course when they elected as president Dave Miller, semester at the Jan. 19 convocation service. President the Word,” he said. “If all you are is a collector of pastor of Southern Hills Baptist Church in Sioux City, Danny Akin delivered the convocation address, speaking knowledge, you are a fool.” Iowa. from Matthew 7 about obedience to God’s Word. Fitting for the beginning of a semester, Akin told Miller ran on a platform that promised to feature an “Every one of us in this room today has a source of students to keep in mind they could earn all the degrees ethnically diverse lineup of preachers from “average- authority that shapes our worldview,” said Akin, adding in seminary and still be far away from God. size” churches. Baptist Press reported in late December that these sources of authority come from four main “On the surface initially, there doesn’t seem to be any that six Anglo, three African Americans, one Jamaican categories, including reason, experience, tradition and difference between the two men who built the houses,” American, a Cuban American and an Asian American are revelation. he said. “What then is the difference? Their foundation scheduled to preach at the June 11-12 event. “Revelation is that which affirms that I think the way and obedience to the word.” The preaching roster will also teach passage-by-pas- I think because God’s word says so,” he said. “This is In his final encouragements, Akin added, “I plead sage through the book of Philippians, breaking from the the only reliable source of authority and the only place with you my brothers and sisters, as you enter into your conference norm of focusing on a topic or theme. we gain knowledge and wisdom.” studies, don’t just be a hearer of the word. Be a hearer Fellow pastors aided Miller in developing the plat- Akin offered his definition of wisdom as the ability to and a doer, and let the Lord bless you in your work.” form through a collective blog to which he contributes, look at life as God sees life and then to respond accord- (EDITOR’S NOTE – Harper McKay is a news and informa- SBCVoices.com. He also credited other pastors, SBC ingly. tion specialist at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.) entities and the Caskey Center for Church Excellence at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with helping to coordinate the logistics for the event. Well-known Christian artists and songwriters Keith and Kristyn Getty will lead worship for the event, ac- cording to an announcement at SBC Voices. For more information visit the pastors’ conference website at sbcpc.net. The North American Mission’s Board’s yearly out- reach event is set to feature a change to its regular programming too. Crossover Arizona 2017 has forged a partnership with Southern California pastor Greg Lau- rie’s evangelistic Harvest America crusade. The Crossover crusade, which will include a gospel message by Laurie and music from top-name Christian artists, is set to be simulcast nationally just before the “It is not enough just to hear the Word, just to study the Word,” said Danny Akin, president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, to SBC annual meeting. students at the convocation service Jan. 19. “If all you are is a collector of knowledge, you are a fool.” (SEBTS photo) Visit namb.net/crossover. JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 9 God & inaugurations: Baptists continue tradition

By DAVID ROACH | Baptist Press

he participation of at least five Southern Baptist pastors in T inaugural activities for President Donald Trump continues a tradition of prayer, scripture and references to God surrounding presidential inaugurations dating back to George Washington. Dallas pastor Robert Jeffress preached Jan. 20 at a private worship service for the families of Trump and Vice President Mike Pence at St. John’s Church near the White House. The service is a pre- inauguration tradition dating back to the 1933 inauguration of Franklin Roosevelt, according to the U.S. Capitol Historical Society. A Jan. 21 National Prayer Service at the National Cathedral in Washington featured Arkansas pastor Ronnie Floyd, Texas pastors Jack Graham and Ramiro Peña and California pastor David Jeremi- ah. The National Prayer Service tradition also dates to at least 1933, according to a President Donald Trump reportedly used two Bibles during his inauguration Jan. 20. (C-SPAN screen capture) press release from the Presidential Inau- gural Committee. Jeremiah all serve on Trump’s 25-member Coolidge (1923) and Obama in 2009 after The inauguration ceremony itself Evangelical Executive Advisory Board. Chief Justice John Roberts incorrectly re- featured prayers, a scripture reading by Franklin Graham’s appearance at the cited the oath of office during the public evangelist Franklin Graham, two Bibles inauguration was the sixth at a presiden- ceremony. used for Trump’s oath of office and a tial inauguration by either Graham or his The Museum of the Bible, set to open continuation of the tradition of presi- father, evangelist Billy Graham, accord- in Washington later this year, posted a dents’ invoking God in their inaugural ing to media reports. Richard Nixon’s series of videos on social media about addresses. 1969 inauguration was the first time Billy Bibles used by various presidents for the “This is a time of change for America Graham offered an inaugural prayer. oath. Among the historical facts noted: and the world,” pastor Jack Graham said Trump set a record with six total invo- • Harry Truman took his oaths in in a statement. “At moments, it has felt cations and benedictions, inauguration 1945 and 1949 on a Bible opened to The as if so much hangs in the balance. Yet, I historian Jim Bendat told Baptist Press in Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12. In 1949, he believe we can approach this new era of an email. also used a copy of the Guttenberg Bible our nation’s history with hope, for one The tradition of prayers at presiden- opened to the Ten Commandments in Evangelist Franklin Graham read from 1 Timothy thing hasn’t changed – we remain ‘One tial inaugurations dates back to Franklin Exodus 20:1-17. 1 and 2 at President Donald Trump’s Jan. 20 Nation Under God.’” Roosevelt, The Hill reported. • Lyndon Johnson took his 1965 oath inauguration. (Fox News screen capture) Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Church To take his oath of office, Trump on a Bible given to him by his mother, in Dallas, preached from the biblical placed his hand on two Bibles: one used opened to 2 Chronicles 1:10. Johnson was of Psalm 133:1, every U.S. president to be book of Nehemiah. His sermon was titled by Abraham Lincoln in 1861 and again by the first president whose wife held the inaugurated has referenced prayer or the “When God Chooses a Leader,” accord- President Obama at both of his inaugura- Bible during his oath. Bible in his inaugural address. ing to Jeffress’ Twitter account. tions, and another given to Trump by his • Carter took his 1977 oath with Wash- Though some counts of divine refer- “I told you that you would be the mother in 1955. ington’s Bible and a Bible given to Carter ences in inaugural addresses exclude 45th president of the United States long Though the tradition of using a Bible by his mother, opened to Micah 6:8. Hays and Theodore Roosevelt – for before the first primary vote,” Jeffress for the oath of office is not a legal re- • Ronald Reagan took his 1981 and example, a 2013 assessment by National told Trump in the sermon according to a quirement, the custom dates back to 1985 oaths on his mother’s King James Public Radio – Hays referenced “guid- tweet by Trump social media and senior Washington’s first inauguration in 1789, Bible opened to 2 Chronicles 7:14. ance of that Divine Hand” in 1877 and advisor Dan Scavino. Bendat wrote in a Washington Post op-ed. With Trump’s mentions of God in his Roosevelt referenced “gratitude to the At the National Prayer Service, Jack Washington’s Bible was used by four inaugural address, including a quotation Giver of Good” in 1905. Graham, pastor of Prestonwood Baptist subsequent presidents: Warren Harding, Church in Plano, Texas, led a prayer Dwight Eisenhower, Jimmy Carter and Congress majority Christian but less Protestant “for those who serve,” according to the George H.W. Bush. Inaugural Committee. Peña, pastor of “Records from 1793, 1797 and most of Baptist Press body has declined from 95 percent Christ the King Baptist Church in Waco, the first half of the 19th century are silent to 91 percent Christian. Protestants, Texas, led in The Lord’s Prayer. Scrip- on whether a Bible was used, and in 1825, ongress has remained majority while still maintaining a majority, have ture readings were presented by Floyd, John Quincy Adams placed his hand on CChristian and Protestant for as long declined from 75 percent in 1961 to 56 former Southern Baptist Convention a book of constitutional law instead,” as the Pew Research Center has been percent today, Pew announced. The 72 president and pastor of Cross Church in Bendat wrote. tracking data, but the number of Protes- Baptist Congressional members comprise northwest Arkansas, and Jeremiah, pastor Private inaugural ceremonies with no tants has declined by nearly 20 percent- 13.5 percent of the body, trailing the 15 of Shadow Mountain Community Church Bible, Bendat stated, were conducted for age points. percent of U.S. adults that are Baptist, as in El Cajon, Calif. Rutherford Hays (1877), Chester Arthur Since Pew began tracking religion well as the 14.8 percent of Baptists in the Jeffress, Jack Graham, Floyd and (1881), Theodore Roosevelt (1901), Calvin in 1961 during the 87th Congress, the 114th Congress of 2015-2016. 10 JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists ERLC names 73-member Leadership Council

the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). next generation pastor of Biltmore Church, Ashe- By TOM STRODE | Baptist Press • Jen Wilkin, author and Bible teacher, member of ville; and Jeff Long, senior pastor of Parkwood Baptist he Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty The Village Church in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Church, Gastonia. Commission (ERLC) announced Jan. 19 its • Byron Day, senior pastor of Emmanuel Baptist In written comments provided by the ERLC, Merritt T 73-member Leadership Council for 2017. Church in Laurel, Md., and president of the National said he is part of the Leadership Council because of his The council’s 73 pastors and leaders receive train- African American Fellowship of the SBC. deep interest “in the political and social issues which ing from the ERLC through events and conference calls • Matt Chandler, lead pastor of teaching at The Vil- have spiritual ramifications for the church and culture to help them and their churches apply the gospel of lage Church in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. today” and his “confidence in the ERLC leadership in Jesus to all areas of life. Council members also provide • Clint Pressley, senior pastor of Hickory Grove Bap- its engagement with these issues.” counsel to commission staff and sometimes write for the tist Church in Charlotte, N.C. Day said, “The current cultural climate in America ERLC’s website. • Kevin Smith, executive director of the Baptist Con- demands a Christian worldview response,” adding the The ERLC inaugurated the council in 2014, seven vention of Maryland/Delaware. ERLC “is essential to equipping the followers of Jesus to months after Russell Moore became president. Each • Jimmy Scroggins, lead pastor of Family Church in stand in grace and godliness in an ungodly society.” January, the commission unveils a new list of council West Palm Beach, Fla. Wilkin said she is “looking forward to learning from members, who typically serve for one year. • Bart Barber, senior pastor of First Baptist Church in the other members and gaining exposure to new ideas.” “Churches around the country are on the front lines Farmersville, Texas. For Pressley, “There is not another organization, of engaging some of the most difficult cultural and • Willy Rice, senior pastor of Calvary Baptist Church like the ERLC, that helps evangelical Christians think societal questions imaginable, ones that our parents in Clearwater, Fla., and a former president of the SBC through the pressing issues with a genuinely Christian and grandparents often never had to consider,” Moore Pastors’ Conference. framework. To be a small part of such a great organiza- said in a written release announcing the latest council Other North Carolina pastors among the leaders of tion is a rare privilege.” members. this year’s Leadership Council are Andy Davis, senior The entire list of council members is available at erlc. “With our Leadership Council, I’m thrilled to be able pastor of First Baptist Church, Durham; Matt Kendrick, com/about/leadership-council. to partner with a new group of leaders from around the country who are eager to address these issues with a Judge in mosque case: Baptist church treated ‘better’ gospel focus both in the life of their churches and in the Baptist Press Board of Bernards Township, N.J., violated federal law public square,” Moore said. when it required the Islamic Society of Basking Ridge, Among the members of this year’s Leadership Coun- federal judge’s ruling that a New Jersey Islamic N.J. (ISBR), to include more than twice as much park- cil, which includes women for the first time, are: A society faced unlawful religious discrimina- ing in its site plan for a proposed mosque as it required • H.B. Charles, pastor-teacher of Shiloh Metropolitan tion has noted local Baptists were treated “differently for local Christian and Jewish houses of worship. The Baptist Church of Jacksonville and Orange Park, Fla. and better” under similar circumstances. U.S. district ruling came in a case that stirred discussion among • James Merritt, lead pastor of Cross Pointe Church judge Michael Shipp ruled Dec. 31 that the Planning Southern Baptists last year. in the north metro Atlanta area and former president of It’s very simple!

n Someone joined your church from a non-Baptist background.

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n The Biblical Recorder can help.

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Bible Continued from page 8 Siblings combine for 140 years of praise music View, his first pastorate. “I have known and observed Mallory text, while being highly readable,” Rainer By MIKE CRESWELL | BSC Communications and Katy for some 47 years. Since leaving Mountain View in the said. “I believe the CSB will engage more summer of 1973, we have maintained a close, personal relation- people in reading and sharing God’s empted to skip choir practice? Maybe you should think ship with the folks there. So much of who I am is what I learned Word.” about Mallory Carrick and his sister, Katy Palmer. from Mallory and Katy over these years. I will always cherish Already, the CSB has been endorsed T Carrick led the choir at Mountain View Baptist and value their touch upon my life and ministry,” he said. by numerous pastors including Tony Church near Lexington from about 1945 to just a couple of years It was Katy who encouraged Phillips to have a world mis- Evans, Robby Gallaty, Eric Mason and ago – about 73 years. He’s now 88 years old. sions conference at the church, and a Southern Baptist mission- Derwin Gray, as well as Bible teachers His sister, Katy Palmer, has played piano and organ at ary from Africa wound up staying a week in the Phillips’ home. Kelly Minter, Lisa Harper and the team Mountain View for about 67 years. She’s now 82 years old, still Phillips said that visit was the beginning of a missions journey behind the popular women’s Bible study, playing on Sundays. for him and his wife, Kathy. She Reads Truth. Between them, that’s 140 years of commitment to praising After he served at one other North Carolina church, they For Wax, who also serves as a teaching God through music nearly every Sunday. went on to serve as Southern Baptist missionaries in Peru for pastor, the CSB makes an easy transition Music wasn’t all they had done in their church. “They’ve 20 years. Of late, Phillips uses the Spanish he learned in Peru from the pastor’s study to the pulpit. done everything – Vacation Bible School, kids ministry, deacon, to serve as immigrant ministries strategist for the Baptist State “As a pastor, I’ve grown more confident missions. Their lives have existed in and around the church. Convention of North Carolina; he has ministered with the in the CSB’s accuracy and precision,” We just love them. They are precious people,” said Tim Miller, state’s Spanish speakers in several capacities for the convention he said. “It is a text I can use for sermon Mountain View pastor who’s a relative newcomer with his 11 over the years. preparation and serious Bible study.” years of service there. Phillips recalled how Mallory was able to “calm and encour- He also believes the new revision That precious label is seconded by Mountain View member age” his young and inexperienced pastor’s heart. “I knew him makes discipleship and evangelism easier. Bonnie Carrick, a distant cousin of Mallory and Katy through at his sock factory in Denton, at the local ball field, in his home, “Because it is clear and easy to read, I can her husband. in the community, at the beach. In all those times and places, share it with people who are new to the “Mallory and Katy have always been available for everything he has always been himself – one of the few Christian statesmen Word of God as well as those who are – weddings or funerals. They would take time off work when we still have with us,” he said. already regular Bible readers.” needed. Mallory would always put his heart into whatever mu- Katy Palmer said it was in 1949 that Mountain View’s previ- A full version of the CSB is available at sic he chose, and he would come up with appropriate music to ous pianist had to quit for maternity leave. “So I started playing Read.CSBible.com. Beginning this month, sing. His love for missions has been overwhelming,” she said. then,” she recalled. “I’d hate to hear what it sounded like,” she the translation will be available through Besides music, Katy has always loved missions, whether said with a grin. other Bible apps and websites. CSB overseas or home, Carrick said. “They’re always there for She took piano lessons only during during grades five Bibles will be available at LifeWay Stores whatever.” Carrick has been a member of Mountain View for 56 through seven. After that, it was mostly practice that honed her in March. years, and yes, Mallory and Katy were already serving when she skills. She took on playing the organ after one was given to the (EDITOR’S NOTE – Aaron Earls is a writer joined the church. church around 1970. at LifeWay Christian Resources.) Larry Phillips agrees with Carrick. He got to know Mallory and Katy between 1969-1973 as he served as pastor of Mountain See Siblings page 16

Ruling Continued from page 1 transgender rights. Officials with the De- that “a person’s identity as male or female impose a stigma on religious people and is determined by biological sex and not partments of Education and Justice told is created by God and immutable.” institutions whose faith dictates that by one’s self-perception.” The resolution public school districts, as well as colleges “Not surprisingly, then, interpreting gender identity is determined by one’s “regard[ed] our transgender neighbors and universities, to allow transgender ‘sex’ to include gender identity would birth sex. as image-bearers of Almighty God and students to use the restrooms and locker create thorny conflicts between federal “[R]eligious Americans could find therefore condemn[ed] acts of abuse or rooms of their gender identity. The civil rights law and widely held religious themselves increasingly marginalized for bullying committed against them.” guidance was not legally binding, but it beliefs,” according to the brief. believing that gender is immutable and The resolution also said, “We invite implied noncompliance could result in Such an interpretation, the brief said, divinely ordained.” all transgender persons to trust in Christ the loss of federal aid. could result in students being taught Congress – which has not added and to experience renewal in the gospel.” The high court has said it will rule beliefs contrary to those of their parents gender identity as a protected class in Others signing onto the brief were the on two issues in the case – whether the and in religious colleges and universities federal law – is the appropriate branch to National Association of Evangelicals, U.S. Obama administration’s interpretation having problems in preserving single-sex “balance competing interests” and settle Conference of Catholic Bishops, Union that protections against sex discrimina- dormitories and maintaining privacy in the issue, the brief said. of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of tion include gender identity is valid and showers and changing rooms. “Legislators and local authorities can America, The Church of Jesus Christ of whether a federal agency letter to that If expanded beyond federal law in step in where reasonable solutions are Latter-day Saints, The Lutheran Church– effect should be granted deference by the the field of education, the inclusion of not offered voluntarily,” according to the Missouri Synod and Christian Legal courts. gender identity under sex discrimination brief. “But if bureaucratic fiat supplants Society. The Department of Education said in a could produce legal problems in such the democratic process, gender identity The Gloucester County (Va.) school letter last January, “When a school elects areas as employment and housing, the will become yet another flashpoint for district had provided a separate restroom to separate or treat students differently ERLC and its allies said in the brief. social tension and conflict.” for the student who brought suit, but she on the basis of sex ... a school generally If the high court affirms the Depart- The brief includes statements of belief said being forced to use the alternative must treat transgender students consis- ment of Education’s view, it “would also on gender from nine different faith per- restroom further stigmatized her. The tent with their gender identity.” In its take a long step toward delegitimizing spectives, including the Southern Baptist Obama administration backed her posi- opinion, the Fourth Circuit panel said the traditional religions,” according to the Convention (SBC). The SBC section cites tion. She underwent hormone therapy, department’s interpretation should be brief. statements from the Baptist Faith and legally changed her name to a male name “accorded controlling weight.” “Making gender identity a protected Message, the convention’s confession of and asked to be treated as a male before The ERLC and the other signers of the class under Title IX implies that tradi- faith, and resolutions approved at the an- her sophomore year of high school in brief said the Department of Education’s tional attitudes toward gender identity nual meeting in 2014 and 2016. 2014. interpretation contradicts the belief of are discriminatory. That implication, en- The 2014 SBC resolution “affirm[ed] The case is Gloucester County School their faiths and other religious traditions shrined in federal civil rights law, would God’s good design that gender identity Board v. G.G. 12 JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists Mars Hill president to retire in 2018 Colorado Baptists Mars Hill Communications marked by growth in many areas, fitting the theme seek new leader of his presidency: Preserving the Past, Assuring the ars Hill University President Dan Lunsford Future. Under Lunsford the school transitioned from a Baptist Press announced Jan. 11 that he will retire next college to a university in 2013; completed its first com- he Colorado Baptist General Convention Myear from the position he’s held for 15 years. prehensive capital campaign (and is in the final stages (CBGC) is receiving applications for a new The exact timing of his retirement will depend on the of its second); saw the largest building boom in campus T executive director to replace Mark Edlund, retiring completion of a successful search for a new facilities since the 1970s (with the addition in July after 15 years of service. The executive direc- university president, but Lunsford said it will of three new residence halls and three new tor would serve a unified and healthy convention of be in the first half of 2018. classroom and laboratory buildings, as well 391 churches and church plants in one of the fastest Lunsford became president on an interim as the building and renovation of several growing states in the nation, said CBGC President basis in January 2002, following the resigna- athletic facilities); established the Asheville Mike Routt, citing Edlund’s tenure. tion of the late Max Lennon. The board of Center for Adult and Graduate Studies in “Dr. Mark Edlund has provided excellent spiritual trustees of what was then Mars Hill College south Asheville; added a large portion of the guidance and counsel during his tenure,” Routt said. made the position permanent in May 2003. campus to the National Register of Historic “When he leaves his office in July, Mark departs with In announcing his retirement plans, Luns- Places; strengthened and added academic a difference-making legacy of servant leadership.” ford thanked the students, staff and faculty programs (including an Honors Program, The new leader would continue Edlund’s focus on for their efforts over his tenure as president. master’s degrees in elementary education and DAN LUNSFORD planting new churches and helping revitalize existing He also thanked the trustee board, which he in management and a nursing school); and congregations, Routt said, in efforts to reach the state described as “incredibly supportive.” Luns- increased funding for scholarships and other that has no Southern Baptist churches in 115 of its 200 ford said his promise to the board, when he accepted financial aid for students. zip codes. Colorado Baptists have especially focused the position, was that, “whenever I finished my tenure, Lunsford is a 1969 Mars Hill graduate, earned his on church planting along the state’s front range, that Mars Hill would be stronger than when I began. I graduate degrees at the University of North Carolina extending from Fort Collins to Pueblo and housing believe that we have achieved that promise.” He prom- (UNC) at Chapel Hill, and participated in postdoctoral 80 percent of the state’s 4.24 million people. Among ised that in his remaining months in the presidency study at Vanderbilt University and the UNC-Chapel Hill new residents, 80 percent are drawn to the region, he “will remain as active and engaged in the life of the Institute of Government. He began his career as a sixth the CGBC said. The new leader should be an experi- institution as I have been from ‘Day One.’” grade teacher in Durham; was a principal, director of enced and active leader in Southern Baptist life with Wayne Higgins, current chair of the trustee board instruction, associate superintendent and assistant su- at least five years of administrative experience, a his- and a member of that board when Lunsford became perintendent for Orange County Schools before serving tory of sound financial management, and knowledge president, said Lunsford’s “passion for and dedication that district as superintendent from 1983-1990; and was of Southern Baptist Convention polity and structure. to Mars Hill is widely recognized.” Higgins called him superintendent of Henderson County Public Schools A master’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited “truly a visionary and academic leader,” adding, “Dr. from 1990-1998. He began his employment at Mars Hill seminary is required. Lunsford will be tremendously missed at Mars Hill in 1998 as dean of the School of Education and Leader- Applications and recommendations for the posi- University but we know he will continue to be very sup- ship. tion can be sent to: 11200 W. 32nd Ave., Wheat Ridge, portive and engaged with the university.” He and his wife, Beverly, are active in the life of the CO, 80033, or at [email protected]. Lunsford’s tenure at Mars Hill University has been university and the town of Mars Hill. Old Testament scholar, theologian dies at 70 SEBTS & Gateway Seminary reports teams for the New Living Translation and Tracy McKenzie, associate profes- Sailhamer earned a bachelor of arts de- the Holman Christian Standard Bible. sor of biblical studies, worked closely gree in journalism from California State ell-known professor of Old The SEBTS community remembers with Sailhamer as a teaching assistant University, Long Beach, and worked as Testament, John Herbert Sailhamer for his contributions to Old and Ph.D. student at SEBTS. In a tribute a general assignments reporter for the W Sailhamer, 70, died Jan. 9 af- Testament scholarship and the greatness to Sailhamer, McKenzie wrote, “Much Dallas Morning News before completing ter a long battle with Parkinson’s disease of his character. could be said of Sailhamer’s career in a master of theology degree in Old Testa- and Lewy Body Dementia. “John Sailhamer was the quintes- teaching and publishing … The numbers ment from Dallas Theological Seminary During his career, Sailhamer served a sential Christian scholar. of his students who now in 1974, a master of arts degree in Semitic number of institutions, including South- His thoughtful writings will serve in the academy – both languages from UCLA in 1976, and a doc- eastern Baptist Theological Seminary continue to bless the Church inside and outside of evan- tor of philosophy degree in ancient Near (SEBTS), where he worked from 1999- for years to come,” said SEBTS gelicalism – not to mention the East languages and literature from UCLA 2006. Most recently, Sailhamer taught at President Danny Akin. “His pulpit, attest to his profound in 1981. He was ordained by the Evangeli- Gateway Seminary, formerly Golden Gate ability in the classroom is truly influence in the field through cal Free Church of America in 1983. Baptist Theological Seminary, until he legendary. I do not choose teaching and supervising Ph.D. His 36-year teaching career began in retired in 2012. my words lightly. He was that students.” 1975 at Los Angeles Bible College and Sailhamer’s work at SEBTS was good and how we will miss The Library at Southeastern continued at Biola University, Bethel marked by service to students, as he him.” is home to Sailhamer’s person- Seminary, Trinity Evangelical Divinity spent much of his time advising master “John Sailhamer was not al library, a collection of rare School and Western Seminary before of theology and doctor of philosophy only a great man but a pro- JOHN SAILHAMER volumes documenting the his- starting work at SEBTS. (Ph.D.) students through the thesis and foundly good man. He was tory of the Old Testament in- He is survived by Patty Engdahl Sail- dissertation process. great in that he was the consummate terpretation in post-Reformation Europe. hamer, his wife of 45 years; his children, During this time he also served as the research scholar and a master classroom Through this special collection, students David Sailhamer, Elizabeth Sailhamer president of the Evangelical Theological instructor who received standing ova- have and will continue to benefit from Soukup, John Christian Sailhamer and Society in 2000 and wrote his last major tions at the end of his courses,” said Sailhamer’s work for years to come. Peter Sailhamer; eight grandchildren; publication The Meaning of the Pentateuch in Provost Bruce Ashford. The author of more than 15 books, brother, Paul Sailhamer; and sister, Clau- 2009. That work was called his magnum “But more significantly he was a good various articles and essays, his writing dette Miller. opus and was listed among Amazon.com’s man, a humble and loving servant of the centered on reading the Bible, the Penta- Memorials to: the Compassion Fund top 100 sellers. Lord who was loved by his peers and teuch in particular, as a unified, coherent or Disability Family Fund and the First He served on the review and editorial students.” whole. Evangelical Free Church. JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 13

OPPORTUNITY CORNER

Leading Change in the Church is a one day event, March 7, for your entire church staff focused on leading change in the local church. The conference features Thom Rainer, president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, and nearly The Baptists on Mission Regional Ral- Visit baptistsonmission.org/events/region- two dozen ministry leaders from around lies will highlight the variety of oppor- rallies. the country. tunities North Carolina Baptists have to • Feb. 1 – Region 1: Cale Conference Individual registration is $10 and for the entire group. Email questions@ be involved in missions across our state, Center, Hertford; includes lunch. Church staff pricing leadingchange.church or visit leadingchange. in our nation and around the world. • Feb. 6 – Region 2: First Baptist for more than five attendees is only $50 church to register. Worship, testimony, mission video and Church, New Bern; Region 6: Hopewell a prayer time for missions will be fea- Baptist Church, Monroe; tured at these 10 rallies across the state in • Feb. 7 – Region 3: Scotts Hill Bap- February. tist Church, Wilmington; Region 9: First A main focus of these rallies will be Baptist Church, Waynesville; Region 4: state, national and international partner- Southeastern Baptist Theological Semi- ships and projects that are supported by nary, Wake Forest; the North Carolina Missions Offering. • Feb. 13 – Region 8: South River A meal is provided for the N.C. Mission Baptist Church, Statesville; Region 10: Operation Transformation and The focus will be on renewing church- Rallies at no charge, but reservations are First Baptist Church, Robbinsville; Crosspointe Baptist Church in Con- es and changing lives and will include necessary. • Feb. 16 – Region 5: Cross Road Bap- cord are hosting Revitalize 2017 April 8. two sessions (four keynote speakers) and The deadline for reservations is one tist Church, Asheboro; Region 7: Union The conference, which will be held at several relevant breakouts with a time for week prior to the event. Grove Baptist Church, Lenoir. Crosspointe, is a one-day training and dialogue with the speakers. Registration equipping conference for pastors and is $35 and includes all conference materi- church leaders lead by nationally recog- als and lunch. Visit operation-transforma- nized church revitalizers. tion.com/revitalize.

Baptists on Mission or North Carolina • Region 5: Apr. 21-22, Rockingham Baptist Men (NCBM) is offering disaster County; relief training to believers who have a • Region 7: May 5-6, Surry County; passion to serve others. • Region 9: May 19-20, Buncombe Disaster response is a unique mission County. The 2017 Associational Missions menting a written intentional strategy experience because of the sudden nature Specific locations will be announced Conference is being held April 10-13 at plan for the revitalization of churches and of the event, difficult conditions and high later. Caraway Conference Center in Asheboro. church leaders in relation to the mission- expectations from other relief organiza- Cost ranges from $30-45 depending on The theme is Renew and Redirect, Mov- al calling to fulfill the Great Commission. tions and survivors. Options for training which course is being taken and gener- ing from Theory to Practice. Participants Registration is $95 for a single room, $85 include basic training, cross training, ally includes training manual, hat, shirt, will learn how to experience renewal in for a double, or $40-60 for commuters. recertification and advanced training. ID badge, background check (if needed), the areas of personal and spiritual health Deadline to register is March 28. Visit Training sessions are in odd numbered temporary accident insurance and up to and will be lead in developing and imple- ncbaptist.org/renew. regions across the state for 2017: three meals. Housing is provided but par- • Region 1: Feb. 24-25, Chowan ticipants must bring their own bedding County; and toiletries. GRADUATES • Region 3: March 31-Apr. 1, Robeson Visit baptistsonmission.org/training/disas- County; ter-relief-training. Thirteen students graduated from Gardner- Miller, Charlotte Webb University Divinity School in Boiling • Master of divinity in pastoral care and Springs, N.C., in December: counseling – Alexander Ballard, Charlotte; Alli- • Master of divinity in Christian educa- son Greene, Kings Mountain; Kathryn Bonapart, tion – Linda Lockhart, Shelby; and Taura Glaze, Charlotte; and Christopher Hensley, Ellenboro; Matthews Jerry Elmore, Forest City • Master of divinity in intercultural studies • Master of divinity in pastoral ministries – Jamie Efird, Cherryville – Robert Murphy, Gastonia; and Stephen Rush- • Master of divinity in missiology – Keith ing, Mount Holly

Local business leaders present Phantoms check On Fri., Jan. 13, Fred and Doris Huebner, from left, representing local McDonald’s owners/operators, present a check to Baptist on Mission’s Paul Langston, along with Marty Clayton of Duke Energy and Tim Stevens of Show N Tell Ministries. The $51,899.49 check was raised during the Three Phantoms in Concert Nov. 29 in Raleigh. The event starred three former phantoms in concert. Corporate support from Duke Energy and McDonald’s covered the concert’s expenses so all ticket proceeds could be donated to hurricane relief. The funds included a grant from the John Williams Pope Foundation. All of the funds will be used to help with Hurricane Matthew recovery efforts. (BSC photo by K Brown) ADVERTISE – (919) 459-5691 14 Sunday School JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

February 5 BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE February 12 Following with Joy Growing with Joy

Focal passage: Philippians 2:1-11 spire people of all kinds to live for God Focal passage: Philippians 3:12-21 One way to take joy in this journey is and for others.” Each person who shares to follow the example of mature believ- aul challenges us to consider that on their site has come to the realiza- he spiritual giant, Paul, acknowl- ers. There is a couple in my church who the path to living in real joy is tion that instead of placing Jesus first in edges that even he had not recently celebrated 60 years of marriage Pby following Christ. To follow their lives, they had sought to meet their T perfected following Christ. He and ministry as together. They have Christ means to demonstrate humility, needs through allowing other things to realized that it is a process as we move served side by side from the time of semi- then we find joy. take precedence. The list of celebrities, toward the goal of a full understanding of nary, in churches and now in numerous This approach to finding joy is of sports icons and television obedience to Christ. roles in our church. course countercultural. Our culture pro- faces includes Chip and Joanna He points out that there They each have joy in their eyes and claims that temporary measures, such as a Gaines, Darrell Waltrip and always has been and there voices as they share about their Savior. purchase of a new car or taking a certain Josh Turner. Each testimony always will be, those who make They tell funny stories about living on vacation will bring joy. These momentary concludes with the celebrity different choices. It is up to practically nothing during the seminary fixes are all about supposedly meeting stating their name followed by each individual believer and to years and stories of warmth as they share our needs and giving us what we deserve. “I am second.” the church to keep our focus about the latest grandchild who they are After all, we have worked hard or proven Perhaps we could reflect on our “citizenship in heaven” (v. influencing for the cause of Christ. ourselves worthy of such things. How- on what we might share in 20). The wife shares the gospel with those ever, as Christians, we understand that a similar testimony. After We can find joy in the God places in her path at the grocery we only actually deserve an eternity apart all, following Jesus is a 100 growth process. A child most store and the doctor’s office. The hus- SHERRA STILL from God due to our sin. percent commitment. As the likely gets discouraged when band ministers weekly to the senior adult Member, True joy comes from the amazing gift familiar hymn reminds us, “… he struggles to ride a bike or choir. University Hills Baptist of eternal life that we receive through the the world behind me, the cross tie his shoes, and as parents If you compliment them for their ser- Church, Charlotte grace extended to us in the saving rela- before me, no turning back, no we respond. We don’t sit back vice, they very quickly direct the praise tionship with Jesus Christ. Out of that turning back.” and just tell our child to give and glory to God. It is beautiful and realization, we want to obey Christ and Following Jesus gives each believer up! Instead, we encourage them to keep inspiring! experience true joy. love for others and purpose in each day. trying and to maybe look for new ways to They will also let you know they I AM SECOND, is a movement that has As we love others, we find many oppor- accomplish the task. “eagerly await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, helped many individuals consider who or tunities to practice humility as we strive Paul is encouraging us. We can know who will transform our lowly body to be like his what was being placed first in their lives. to follow the example of Jesus. This leads that day-by-day, as we “press on” (v. 12), glorious body” (vv. 20-21). The iamsecond.com site states they “in- to true joy. we can do it with joy. They demonstrate growing with joy! February 5 EXPLORE THE BIBLE February 12 Timid Warrior Compromised Potential Focal Passages: Judges 6:11-16, 25-32 and real faith. He was commissioned to Focal Passages: Judges 16:4-6, 13-20 Samson’s life was defined by his biceps tear down the altars of Baal and Asherah and riddles. No one was a match for the ichael Oher became nationally (Gideon’s name means to “hack or cut en Bias was an All-American and mighty and witty Samson. He infuriated known following the debut of down.”) all-everything college basketball his enemies to the point that the Philis- Mthe movie “The Blind Side.” But these particular objects were not L player. For years he had ter- tines stayed awake at night plotting his The teenage Oher was encouraged to play the idols of a foreign enemy or a benign rorized his Atlantic Coast Conference demise. football, where he initially proved to be a neighbor. These altars be- opponents. Bias so impressed They watched Samson and discov- very large but very timid warrior. He did longed to his father. And while Boston Celtics great Larry Bird ered his greatest weakness was women. not want to hurt his teammates or anyone Gideon could understand of his potential that Bird rec- Therefore, when Samson hooked up with else. that his father was wrong to ommended that Celtics general the beautiful and persuasive Delilah, they Another issue perplexing the young have erected and worshiped manager Red Auerbach draft believed she could deliver Samson for Oher was family. If he accepted the very these false gods, he knew Bias as the overall number two them. And she did. generous offer of the Tuohy family, would there would likely be severe pick in the 1986 NBA draft. The story of Samson began with such he be betraying his race and friends? Still consequences for himself if he Auerbach did, and the Celt- promise – a loving family, the blessing of later, after he had proven to be a mighty obeyed God. ics’ world celebrated. Tragical- God, extreme ability and strength. All warrior on the high school gridiron, he He could lose his life. ly, two days later Len Bias was Samson had to do was keep his vow, his wrestled with the decision of what major In fact, Gideon was so petri- pronounced dead, presumably promises to God. university to play for. fied by the thought of obeying WAYNE PROCTOR as a reaction to a cocaine over- But in his search for pleasure, he Would his decision be to please the God that he demolished his Pastor, Eure dose: compromised potential. wasted God’s gift. Tuohys, himself, or both? father’s altars at night when no Baptist Church, Eure Samson would be the last of Potential is an elusive word. We all Likewise, when the angel of the Lord one could see his actions. The Israel’s judges. His rise from have it, but we don’t all reach it. Len appeared to Gideon as he was trying to next day was reckoning day. obscurity to greatness is well known. Bias reached his potential while at the protect his family’s wheat crop from the Fortunately for Gideon, his father Manoah’s wife was barren, but God University of Maryland. It was assumed Midianites, Gideon was identified as loved him more than the idols and intervened by sending His angel to her he could reach even higher potential as a “mighty warrior.” declared that if Baal and Asherah have with the message that she was to birth a Celtic. It didn’t happen. Gideon responded, “Who me? You must power, let them punish Gideon. son, and this son would take the Nazarite Samson, likewise, was the poster boy have the wrong guy. I’m the last person you The jump from “timid” to “mighty” vow – no alcohol consumed, nothing for “potential.” He had it by the bucket should choose” (v. 15). comes when God’s children have the unclean eaten and uncut hair. loads. Unfortunately, his faith and com- Then the Lord tasked Gideon to do courage to risk an uncertain future for a The boy was born, was given the name mitment to God didn’t match his poten- something that would take real guts certain God. Samson, and God blessed him (13:24). tial. JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists 15

AROUND THE STATE Carol Pipes to lead LifeWay communications Obituaries N.C.; Conrad Memorial Baptist, High Point, N.C.; Sum- ner Baptist Church, Greensboro, N.C.; Immanuel Baptist Baptist Press & LifeWay BARBARA ANN RAVERT VOORHES, 81, of Mauld- Church, Greensboro; and Bethany Baptist, Julian, N.C. in, S.C., died Jan. 14. Early in ministry, he and his wife were involved in ifeWay Christian Resources has announced the A New York native, Voorhes was a member of First working with international students. promotion of Carol Pipes as the ministry’s new Baptist Church, Mauldin, S.C. Her husband, Bill Voor- He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Allie Blanken- Ldirector of corporate communications. Pipes will hees, served as pastor of churches in Virginia, North ship Thompson; and three children, Gary, Barry and replace Southern Baptist Convention veteran communi- Carolina and South Carolina. She was founding direc- Linda. cator Marty King who will retire in February. tor of KOALA, an adult day care service in Transylvania LifeWay Executive Vice President Brad Waggoner County, N.C. Staff changes made the announcement saying Pipes “brings nearly 20 She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Bill Voor- years of communications expertise and experience, as hes; daughter, Cyndee York of Greenville; sons, Anthony JACOB LEWIS has been called as pastor to Haw well as a strong commitment to LifeWay’s mission and S. Voorhes of Wilson, N.C., and John H. Voorhes of Bluff Baptist Church, Ivanhoe. He was ordained Jan. 15 purpose.” Woodstock, Ga.; nine grandchildren; and six great- and is enrolled at Southeastern Seminary. Pipes joined LifeWay in 2012 as manager of edito- grandchildren. rial services and editor of Facts & Trends. Previously, she Memorials to: Open Arms Hospice, 1836 W. Georgia New Prospect Baptist Church, served as team leader of content development at the Road, Simpsonville, SC 29680, or Mauldin First Baptist Shelby, called CHRIS DEVINE as North American Mission Board (NAMB) and editor of Church, 150 S. Main Street, Mauldin, SC 29662. pastor. Devine was previously the On Mission. Prior to NAMB, she worked for The Salvation interim pastor. Army and the former Baptist Brotherhood Commission. LARRY D. THOMPSON, 81, died Jan. 11 at Moses She is a native of Tennessee, and a graduate from the Cone Hospital. H. WOODROW “WOODY” University of Memphis with a degree in journalism. A West Virginia native, Thompson attended Concord FISH has been chosen as Gard- She and her husband Keith have been married 18 years. College before enlisting in the U.S. Army. ner-Webb University’s vice They attend Friendship Community Church in Mount He was ordained into the ministry at Holston Creek president for university advance- Juliet, Tenn., where Keith serves as director of worship Baptist Church, Inman, S.C., and went on to pastor ment. Fish previously was vice ministries. at Wood Baptist Church, Wood, N.C.; First Baptist president for external affairs and King and his wife Barbara have relocated to Jackson, Church, Campobello, S.C.; Central Baptist, Oak Ridge, special assistant to the president. H. WOODROW FISH Tenn., to be near family. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

Pastor Church Staff Jennies Branch Baptist Church of Shallote, NC, Hopewell Baptist Church, Monroe, NC, seeks Moon’s Chapel Baptist Church in rural Siler Lawndale Baptist Church, Greensboro, NC, is is receiving resumes for our Music Minister an Associate Pastor of Discipleship to oversee City, NC, is a multi-generational congregation seeking Associate Pastor of Married Adults. position. This position will provide leadership the discipleship ministries of a large conserva- seeking a full-time Pastor. We are a SBC affili- Overall responsibilities include planning, co- and direction for the Jennies Branch Music tive church and supervision of several staff ated church seeking a man filled with passion ordinating and leading married adult ministry. ministry. The Minister of Music is responsible members. Candidate should have a master’s to work with our congregation and commu- These duties include: development of classes for planning, conducting and promotion of degree or higher and experience in these areas. nity, with an evangelistic mindset to reach to equip parents at different stages of life. the worship programs. Send resume to jen- Resumes accepted until 2-28-17; Kim@what the lost and driven to preach God’s Word. Leading enrichment classes to better equip [email protected]. asavior.com. Send resume to: Pastor Search Committee, 175 husbands and wives. Developing methods White Level Baptist Church, Louisburg, NC, Miscellaneous Moon’s Chapel Rd., Siler City, NC 27344. and materials which facilitate mentoring of is in search of an Associate Pastor/Youth Fred Lunsford’s newest book, “Bloom couples. Counseling couples in marriage issues Minister to serve our youth and our body. Where You Are Planted” is now available. First Baptist Church in King, North Carolina, is and provide a biblical approach to marriage. You must be ordained and we prefer that it Milton Hollifield, Executive-Treasurer of the prayerfully seeking a full-time Senior Pastor. Enlisting and training leaders for on and off not be the first youth group that you have led. Baptist State Convention of NC has the follow- Must have a strong personal relationship with campus groups working within the com - This is a part-time position with plenty of op- ing to say about it: “This book is a collection of Jesus Christ, Bible teaching, strong adminis- munity. Expected skills are solid judgment portunity to deliver Sunday morning sermons inspirational sermons that pastors and Chris- trative skills, someone who can shepherd our and decision-making ability. A knowledge of when Pastor is absent or on occasional special tian leaders will benefit from reading because youth and young adult program, have good membership and how best to meet the needs of event Sunday mornings but most importantly it reminds us of ways that God is at work in our communication skills, must be self-motivated that membership through planned programs. a huge opportunity to impact youth at a criti- life and ministry. These messages are packed and can motivate church staff. Please send And a sensitivity to problems and fluency of cal point in their lives. Please email resume to with Biblical truths, wonderful testimonial resumes to: [email protected]. Pay com- ideas to meet the demands of the many areas [email protected]. patible with experience and ability. of ministry. The successful candidate will have stories and practical illustrations you can use a master of divinity and five years ministry ex- Cornerstone Baptist Church seeks FT direc- in Bible studies and sermons.” For pricing and Hallsville Baptist Church, Beulaville, NC, is perience. Please send resume and salary history tor of Music Ministry. Blended worship to order, call: 828-837-2605 or 828-837-6530. prayerfully seeking a Pastor to faithfully preach to: [email protected] or employment@ style which includes choir and praise team. and teach the Word of God and lead our con- lawndalebaptist.org. Knowledge and utilization of audio/visual. Coffee Shop Contents For Sale. Baptist Pastor gregation. We are a mission-minded Southern Email [email protected] or mail resumes to selling entire contents of Coffee Shop located Baptist church located in rural Duplin County. 8947 Albemarle Rd., Charlotte, NC 28227. in Fremont, NC. Includes La Cimbali espresso We have traditional Sunday School and wor- machine, tables, chairs, counters etc. $8,250. If ship services with average attendance of 50-80 Placing a classified ad in theBiblical Recorder interested please call, 919-273-5358. with expectation to grow. The Pastor will lead three services each week (Sunday morning, Choose one of three avenues: Senior adult leaders from around the state Sunday night and Wednesday evening). Please • Send e-mail to: [email protected]. will meet in Thomasville on May 2 for the send resumes to: Hallsville Baptist Church, c/o • Submit the information via the Recorder’s website at BRnow.org. 3rd annual AAIM roundup! Call NCBAM at Pastor search committee, 1291 Hallsville Rd., • Send a Fax to (919) 467-6180. 877.506.2226 to learn more about AAIM (Aging Beulaville, NC 28518. For more information, call the office at (919) 459-5691. Adults Innovating Ministry). Cost for Baptist churches/organizations is $1.20 per word, number and MOVED? Don’t forget to change your address stand-alone initial ($1.42 for commercial and non-Baptist entities) with a with the Biblical Recorder. Contact Liz Tablazon minimum charge of $35. Classifieds also are carried online. at (919) 459-5693 or [email protected]. 16 JANUARY 28, 2017 • BIBLICAL RECORDER • News Journal of North Carolina Baptists

Siblings Continued from page 11

Mountain View presented Mallory He is especially pleased with the and Katy with plaques of appreciation in church’s outreach ministry to children. a special service Nov. 6, 2016. The ministry uses two vehicles to col- “It was real nice for people to come lect 15 to 30 children around the com- out and to be appreciated in that way,” munity on Sunday morning and evening Mallory said. “Of course, the work that and bring them to services. The church has been done over the years was ac- provides them with dinner and supper as complished by Jesus Christ and the Holy well as Bible teaching and other activi- Spirit. We don’t take any credit for it. ties. It has been a real honor and privilege “If we’re late, they’ll call the church that the Lord let me be here these many and ask if we’re coming to get them to- years.” day,” Miller said. He has missed a few Sundays of late The church also supports missions be- because of his wife’s heart attack, but yond the local community by contribut- said, “I’m 88 years old and still coming to ing through the Cooperative Program and church.” the Southern Baptist mission offerings. These days, Mallory is careful when he On Miller’s office wall are an ar- walks but is still firm of voice and hand- Katy Palmer, left, along with her brother, Mallory Carrick, right, were recognized by their church, Moun- chitect’s sketches for a multi-purpose shake – and still drives his Chevy Impala tain View Baptist Church near Lexington, led by Pastor Tim Miller, center. (BSC photo by Mike Creswell) building he would like to see the church to and from church. construct one day; it would house several He graduated from the local high creep in over the years. He gives “All Hail and find a warm welcome at Mountain community-focused ministries and be school in 1945 and began his music min- the Power of Jesus’ Name” as an example View. built onto the present building, which istry about then. “I love to hear a choir of a good, solid hymn. Miller said the church averages around originally was a one-room schoolhouse join together and sing praises. It’s just Mountain View has been a presence 100 in attendance on Sundays, way up built in 1939. something that always built me up and in the surrounding Southmont Com- from the 30 or so in church when he Just as that modern new building will helped me to worship. It was a blessing munity near Lexington for many years. began serving as pastor. The lively church be added onto an earlier foundation, to me, and I think it’s good for people to It’s a rural area, but development around is growing, and he praised the spirit of Mountain View’s present and future sing,” he said. nearby High Rock Lake has brought in unity he sees. There is no hint of decline growth in membership and faith will be He has stayed with hymns in the new people. or plateau in Mountain View; a children’s added to the foundational ministry of Baptist Hymnal over the years and is not Some of the newcomers from other church time each Sunday morning is a members like Katy and Mallory and their overly fond of the changes he has seen states come looking for a spiritual home key part of the service. long-time commitment to the gospel.