BaptistsTexas Committed January/February 2001 Visit us at www.txbc.org TEXAS BAPTISTS FOCUS ON THE FUTURE

By David Currie, coordinator ommended budget changes claiming they sonally believe we will, at least to some Historical decisions creating significant were punitive in nature and designed to extent. More than anything, unity will de- change were made by Texas Baptists in hurt the SBC and its institutions. Nothing pend on the winning side of the choice that their annual convention in Corpus Christi, could be further from the truth. was made. Oct. 30Ð31, 2000. The choices mark a con- Texas Baptists have no interest in hurt- If they are fair, reach out to the oppos- tinuing effort to focus on Jesus Christ and ing the SBC. They are now and have al- ing side and seek to find common ground, to identify their role in spreading God’s ways been deeply committed to being ef- unity will probably be the result. Kingdom. fective partners with God in spreading His Texas Baptists cannot reunite with the Texas Baptists approved a report from kingdom. SBC because we are on the losing side of the Seminary Study Committee which rec- Providing money for traditional theologi- that battle. The SBC must reach out to us. ommended changes in how Texas Baptists cal education which is historically consis- But Texas Baptists can reach out to the financially support theological education. tent with Baptist principles is not punitive losing side in our recent budget vote and Messengers also approved a new budget but good stewardship. Supporting Hispanic are already doing so. Hopefully unity can which changed the allocation of funds as ministries, adoption services and traditional be the result of our action. recommended by the Seminary Study Com- Baptists efforts to undergird religious lib- How are Texas Baptists reaching out to mittee, defunded the Southern Baptist Con- erty is not punitive, but God-honoring. SBC loyalists within the BGCT? First, they vention Ethics and Religious Liberty Com- Baptists are at a time when difficult have pledged to honor the giving wishes of mission and drastically reduced funds to choices have to be made. Usually these any BGCT-related church. Second, they the SBC Executive Committee. Details are choices do not please everyone. Our great have not sought to ostracize any BGCT on page 14. country has just been through a difficult church. Third, they will continue to include Southern Baptist Convention leaders vi- and dividing experience in the election of SBC loyalists who also support the BGCT ciously attacked BGCT leaders for the rec- our president. Will our country unite? I per- Continued on Page 2… THANK YOU PRESIDENT CARTER By David R. Currie, coordinator I want publicly to thank former President Jimmy Carter for his courageous statement about Southern Baptist events. I firmly be- lieve that ignorance is our greatest enemy and his word opened many eyes and ears across the country. As people see what has happened to the Baptist witness in America these past 20 years, more people will resist fundamentalism. People will seek to coop- erate the traditional Baptist way, united around missions with respect for freedom. Personally, it was one of the greatest priviledges of my life to sit and visit with Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter in their home. They made me feel like we were old friends, nearly family. In truth, we are family, a part of the traditional Baptist family. We did what families do. We shared our griefs over certain actions that have happened to fellow Baptists. Then we dreamed new dreams of a President and Mrs. Carter with David Currie at their Georgia day when all this will be behind us. Thank you, Mr. Carter, for home. Read President Carter’s open letter to his fellow Baptists your continuing witness of character, courage and grace. on page two of this newsletter. Unhealthy Faith System BGCT’s Historic Steps INSIDE by Charles McLaughlin ...... 6 by Warner/Allen...... 14 Why We Do What We Do Spiritual Freedom In Praise of Baptist Women by David Currie ...... 3 by Phil Lineberger ...... 8 by Sandra Magee ...... 20

— 1 — The following is a personal reflection from President Jimmy Carter as a Baptist ORIGIN OF SBC layman. He also promotes the hearing of an explanation by Dr. Charles Wade, Executive Director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. “CONTROVERSY” By Bill Jones, layman, Hunter’s Glen Baptist Church, Plano In a May 1986 address to Sunday School Board employees, retired President James JIMMY CARTER ¥ OCTOBER 2000 L. Sullivan told of a 1970 conference with an associate editor of a magazine in an To My Fellow Baptists, eastern state. Sullivan had requested the conference, because the magazine was pub- Like millions of other Baptists, I have been deeply distressed by the unpleasant lishing things that Sullivan knew “weren’t and counterproductive divisions within our denomination. In November 1997 and precisely true.” March 1998, invited two dozen Baptist leaders to The Carter Center, in an attempt This conference took place in 1970, nine to overcome differences that were impeding our common mission “to bring about a years before the SBC controversy became spiritual awakening in our nation and around the world.” public. The man complained about the sys- The group who attended included six presidents of the Southern Baptist Conven- tem of electing trustees of Baptist agencies tion and leaders of the Women’s Missionary Union, American Baptists, Coopera- and institutions. He blatantly warned tive Baptist Fellowship, the Texas and Virginia Baptist Conventions, and other Sullivan, “We’re going to do whatever it prominent organizations. We finally agreed on a common statement, pledging takes to take over the state convention and ourselves to a concerted prayer effort, mutual respect for each other, a spirit of the Southern Baptist Convention, and we racial reconciliation, unfettered religious liberty, and “to seek other ways to cooper- intend to do it as quickly as it can be ac- ate to achieve common goals, without breaching our Baptist polity or theological complished.” integrity, in order that people may come to know Christ as Savior, and so that God Their strategy? “We’re going to orga- may be glorified in ever increasing measure.” nize the losers of every election and cause I had never been involved in the political struggle for control of the SBC, and of Southern Baptist history we can identify have no desire to do so. My hope was that, as a traditional Baptist layman, I could … Winners soon forget but losers never find some channel through which I could help fulfill our Christian commitments. do.” As Sullivan explained, “He felt if they But since that brief interlude of apparent harmony, I have been disappointed and could identify and organize [all of] the los- feel excluded by the adoption of policies and an increasingly rigid SBC creed, ers, they would have the majority.” including some provisions that violate the basic premises of my Christian faith. I When Sullivan asked the man what is- have finally decided that, after 65 years, I can no longer be associated with the sue he and his cohorts planned to use to Southern Baptist Convention. take over the SBC, he replied, “We haven’t What am I to do? I’ll certainly continue in my role as a deacon and Sunday picked it yet, but when we pick it, it will be School teacher at Maranatha Baptist Church and support sending half our mission one that no one can give rebuttal to without contribution to the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. In addition to our fellow church hopelessly getting himself into contro- members, Rosalynn and I have been trying to identify other traditional Baptists versy.” How can we believe current SBC who share such beliefs as separation of church and state, servanthood of pastors, leaders that the fundamentalist takeover was priesthood of believers, a free religious press, and equality of women. about the Bible rather than a naked grab We agree with the adherence of most Texas Baptists, Virginia Baptists, and for power? The takeover plan preceded the members of CBF to these principles as expressed in the 1963 Baptist Faith and issue. (Quotes from 1986 article in Facts Message. and Trends magazine) As Georgia Baptists, we are quite concerned by the effort of SBC leaders to impose their newly adopted creed on our state convention. Our prayer is that we Focus on the Future, from Page 1… can avoid this divisive action, and adhere to the traditional beliefs that, for genera- in important leadership positions. Fourth, tions, have sustained our ancestors and us in a spirit of unity and cooperation. Not BGCT leaders and TBC leaders can guard having any religious or theological training, I am not qualified to explain how our rhetoric about those who disagree with profound and revolutionary are the changes in the Baptist Faith and Message that us (without allowing lies to go unchal- are being proposed to unsuspecting Baptists. The best explanation that I have heard lenged). is by Dr. Charles Wade, Executive Director of the Baptist General Convention of I hope and pray the result will be unity Texas, who attended our meetings at The Carter Center almost three years ago. I among Texas Baptists. In the future, elec- hope you will listen carefully to this tape of his remarks concerning the creedal tions will be held in America and in Texas decisions of the 2000 SBC assembly, and share it with others who might help to Baptists’ life. The issues will be argued preserve the Baptist heritage that is so precious to us. strongly and with emotion. One side will Sincerely, win. After the election, the important thing will be the way the losing side is treated. I think Texas Baptists have a wonderful record of fairness to minority viewpoints. I never expect that to change. — 2 — A MATTER OF They opposed a compassionate interpreta- passion not judgment. Baptists will reunite PERSPECTIVE tion of the law. Thus, when Jesus healed when Baptists hold up the Jesus of the on the Sabbath (technically the wrong day); Scriptures. Mainstream talked to women in public (technically the I urge you to become obsessed with Baptists: wrong sex); traveled through Samaria (tech- Jesus, with preaching Jesus, with living for nically the wrong race), they criticized him. Jesus, with imitating Jesus, with telling Why Do We Many modern fundamentalists also preach people about Jesus, with doing good deeds Do What a Jesus who is judgmental, angry, and in Jesus name and for His sake. The result We Do? meanspirited. of the past 21 years in Baptist life must be For fundamentalists, what is good is less a revival of our focus on Jesus. We do By important than what is legal, and the law what we do because Jesus deserves to be David R. Currie, Coordinator determines the truth, not grace. Barclay says presented truthfully. in his commentary on Galatians: “what Paul 2. We do what we do because we I was recently invited to speak at Main- is saying is, ‘this legalistic movement may believe the Bible. stream Baptists of Virginia. I was pleased not have gone very far yet, but you must to be in Virginia, which many believe to be root it out before it destroys your whole The myth of the past 21 years is that the birthplace of Religious Liberty in religion.” Fundamentalism will destroy the Baptists are battling over the authority of America. The following are excerpts from Baptist witness in America. We must stop Scripture. This is now and has always been my speech to a group of Virginia Baptists. it! an outright lie! People will long remember the contri- Division in Southern Baptist life is the Let me be clear about Scripture: I do bution John Leland of Virginia made to result, most of all, of our belief in a differ- not believe we have any knowledge of Jesus religious liberty.Virginia is an island of in- ent Jesus! Mainstream Baptists and many apart from the Scriptures. I also believe we dependence and freedom. You know what fundamentalist Baptists have different, have a personal relationship with Jesus, the it means to be Baptist. John 1:17, says “For the law was given “For the law was given through Moses, through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” This text is significant because it de- — John 1:17 scribes the battle we are in today, one as old as the first century. Is Jesus about law unreconcilable visions of the Gospel. The living Christ. He helps us interpret the or is Jesus about grace and truth? The an- Jesus of the Scriptures is a person of love, Scriptures and interacts with us daily in a swer also addresses one about Mainstream/ compassion and grace. The danger of fun- way consistent with the Scriptures. Traditional Baptists. damentalism is portraying Jesus as an The Bible is our final authority in all Why do Mainstream Baptists do what unreflecting legal literalist. The Jesus writ- matters of faith and practice. Jesus will we do? Why do we resist fundamentalism? ten about in Scripture was severly criti- never reveal Himself inconsistently with Why do we try to preserve the Baptist Wit- cized by the fundamentalist religious lead- the Written Word. ness in America? Why not just “go along ers of his day. Likewise, traditional Bap- to get along?” Since traditional Baptists and tists are severly criticized by the current Fundamentalism is fighting fundamentalist Baptists both believe in SBC fundamentalist leadership. Both Jesus Jesus, why can we not work it out, recon- a cultural war while we are was, and traditional Baptists are, criticized cile, focus on the “main thing,” Jesus? for the same reason—our understanding of fighting a spiritual war. 1. We do what we do because the character and nature of God. of Jesus. As traditional Baptists, we resist funda- Nevertheless, Jesus is alive as the Holy I believe this “Jesus stuff” as I like to mentalism because it does not focus on the Spirit. He reveals Himself daily to us in call it. Recently, I preached the funeral of Jesus of Grace and Truth, only on surface many ways, but always consistent with His one of my best friends and it was my faith elements of divine laws revealed to Moses. character as revealed in Scripture. in Jesus that gave me the strength to preach. Fundamentalism is more interested in I wrote a book about God speaking to I believe Jesus is the way to salvation. I telling people how to live than telling people me through secular music. We find God believe Jesus was God in the flesh, fully about the power to live, Jesus the Christ. many ways. We can know Him long be- human and fully divine. Fundamentalism is fighting a cultural war fore we know Scripture through the Holy The Jesus preached by many fundamen- while we are fighting a spiritual war. Spirit. He guides us as we read and inter- talists is similar to the character of God In short, we believe Jesus is the answer pret Scripture. Without Jesus, we cannot preached by some of the religious leaders of for the world today. Above Him is no other. know the truth of Scripture nor interpret Jesus’ day. They saw a God that was narrow, The heart of Christianity is a personal rela- Scripture. petty, legalistic, judgmental and more inter- tionship with Jesus Christ. We believe the Bible. It is our authority. ested in the surface details of the law rather We must resist fundamentalism because I do not know a single Baptist who does than in its spiritual intentionality. America and the world needs a Baptist wit- not believe the Bible as our final authority Some religious leaders focused on be- ness focused on Jesus, not power; grace in matters of faith and practice. I do not ing “technically right” but not morally right. not a narrow interpretation of the law; com- know a single Baptist who does not base — 3 — their personal beliefs on the Bible. I don’t I believe women whom God calls should damentalist leaders have sought to destroy know any Baptist that believes that their be ministers, deacons or church leaders pre- the reputations of those with whom they personal beliefs are based on teachings that cisely because I believe in the authority of disagree. They are constantly accusing are “extra-Biblical” in origination. We be- Scripture and the eternal principles taught people of not believing the Bible. lieve the Book of all Books and to claim in Scripture. I do not believe these things The Bible is to instruct and teach us we do otherwise is to lie blatantly! “in spite of Scripture” but because of Scrip- eternal, spiritual truths about God, our- We do what we do because we are try- ture! Nevertheless, I also respect those who selves, sin and salvation. We must use the ing to reclaim the authority of Scripture disagree with me and do not question their Bible for, “teaching, rebuking, correcting and preserve the power of Scripture. The commitment to the authority of Scripture. and training in righteousness.” (2 Tim:3:16) Bible is a living book. Its truth is eternal Traditional Baptists must save the Bible Rebuking and correcting does not mean to and its application is constantly expanding from legalistic fundamentalists who have destroy rather to enlighten, learn, grow, to meet the needs of modern society, made its eternal truths “locked in time” deepen. The Bible needs to be rescued from whether it is the 1st century, the 11th cen- prescriptions for time long past. We must those who use it to divide rather than unite. tury or the 21st century. save the authority of Scripture for modern 3. We do what we do because That is the beauty and power of God’s society, not from modern society. Baptists believe in freedom eternal written word. Its authority tran- The Bible’s truths are eternal. Traditional Baptists, more so than fundamentalists, have The genius of the Baptist faith is free- The Baptist way builds a high view of Scripture. We believe its dom. Freedom is the reason Baptists have principles have application in all situations been effective partners with God in recon- into its structure checks and will continue to have application in the ciling the world unto Himself. Jesus told 21st century. us that the truth will set us free. Jesus said, and balances on license “I am the way and the truth and the life.” when freedom goes (John 14:6) Jesus will never reveal What is the truth that sets us free? Two beyond Scripture. Himself inconsistently with pillars of Baptist authority are Jesus and scends all time and its application is rel- Scriptural revelation. the Scriptures. If we stand firm on the per- evant for any time. The Bible is a timeless son of Christ and the Scripture, the result is freedom, not creedalism. book and its truth is absolute! The world needs the Bible. The world The Bible is not a time-locked book. It needs eternal, timeless, absolute truth and was written for its own time and period, we are seeking to preserve it. Freedom under Christ is but its principles are eternal in application. That is why the 1963 Baptist Faith and essential to being Fundamentalism is in danger of locking the Message preamble had the words “Bap- Bible’s truth in time and space, making the tists are people who profess a living faith. effective partners with Bible irrelevant for modern problems and This faith is rooted and grounded in Jesus God in carrying out the situations. We must rescue it for our gen- Christ who is ‘the same yesterday, and to- eration and generations to come. day, and forever.’ Therefore, the sole au- Great Commission. An example: I know of no Baptist church thority for faith and practice among Bap- that ordained a woman that did not do so tists is Jesus Christ whose will is revealed Mainstream/traditional Baptists resist based on their understanding of Bible teach- in the Holy Scriptures. A living faith must fundamentalism for the sake of freedom ings. No one questions Paul’s writings about experience a growing understanding of given us through our relationship with women being silent in the church as he truth and must be continually interpreted Christ and the freedom promised us in wrote to a first century audience where they and related to the needs of each new gen- God’s written word. Mainstream Baptists regulated women to non equality. Paul gave eration.” must resist creedalism because being free the exact perfect, God-inspired advice to They deleted these words in the 2000 is the secret to our success as God’s part- churches he was writing to in the first cen- BF&M. This reflects a narrow view of ners. We must preserve freedom or the Bap- tury. His words were inspired and appro- Scripture by persons more interested in tist vision will die! priate. fighting a culture war determined to return They accuse Mainstream Baptists of hav- God also told Paul to write that “in modern society to a cold-hearted world ing no standards because we believe in free- Christ, there is no male or female, Jew or view. This is disrespectful of the eternal dom. Nothing could be further from the Gentile, free or slave.” This is the eternal truth of Scripture. The Bible is a living truth. Our standard is Jesus Christ revealed principle of Paul’s teaching. In Christ, all book and we must reinterpret its truths with in Scripture. The Baptist way builds into are equal. Reading Paul’s message to first each new generation. We must apply them its structure checks and balances on license century Christians because of the culture in to situations readers never imagined. when freedom goes beyond Scripture. To which he wrote is not liberal. Mainstream Baptists work to rescue stifle freedom is to stifle the genius of the Interpreting his words differently in light Scriptural truth from those who downgrade Baptist way. of modern society also is not liberal. it to legalism rather than grace. What are the freedoms Mainstream Failing to interpret Scripture in light of Additionally, we must save the purpose Baptists treasure? I mention these acknowl- modern culture is to deny its eternal truths of the Scriptures from those who use the edging that Buddy Shurden said it better and make the Bible a dead book with no scriptures as a weapon, a club to beat people than anyone in his book, Four Fragile authority in our time. they oppose. This has been done when fun- Freedoms. — 4 — Bible Freedom: We are people of the Baptists will die if we do not focus on nationally. Freedom is essential to fulfill- book. Historically, we have never required individual evangelism. I challenge you to ing the call and challenge God has given allegiance to a humanly crafted document make it a priority in your church because us. We can be successful only as free Bap- such as a faith statement or loyalty oath. God has ordained some to be evangelists. tists, not creedal Baptists. As creedal Bap- The modern SBC has a loyalty oath, the Preach Jesus and challenge people to share tists, we will have no creativity, Spirit or 2000 BF&M. You cannot serve on any SBC their faith as God gives them the opportu- power. Ultimately we will die as a move- agency board or institution unless you as- nities. ment. cribe to it. Today, the Bible is not enough. Local Church Freedom: This principle Why have I come from Texas to Vir- Reformers resisted the creeds of their day gives us the genius of creativity. Churches ginia? Why are we here early in the morn- and demanded “Scripture alone” as their should not be alike, worship alike or min- ing on a November day? Are we about authority. SBC’s current leaders have taken ister alike. Church members have different anything worthwhile? Yes! I believe God a position that would have condemned gifts and different purposes. We must re- is specifically asking Texas and Virginia Luther, Zwingli, Calvin and our Anabaptist sist control and conformity because it is Baptists to be the two poles of support for forebears for their emphasis on Scripture essential to spreading the Kingdom of God. the Mainstream Baptists’ movement around alone. The kingdom needs all kinds of Baptists. which other states can rally. Religious Freedom: I do not nor should America and the world not need to discuss this in Virginia, but Mainstream Baptists needs a Baptist witness sadly we must emphasize it everywhere. Leland, according to Baptist historian, Wil- work to rescue Scriptural focused on Jesus, not liam Estep, fought for religious liberty be- cause they imprisoned 90 Baptist ministers truth from those who power; grace, not law; and lay persons in colonial Virginia for downgrade it to law compassion, not preaching the Gospel. Leland called for absolute religious lib- rather than grace. judgment. erty. He wrote, “Let every man speak freely without fear, maintain the principles that The 2000 BF&M says it will be used as he believes, worship according to his own We are here because God has given us a document of doctrinal accountability. No faith, one God, three Gods, no God, or an unbelievable challenge. God is asking authentic Baptist would ever dream of such twenty Gods; and let government protect us to preserve the Baptist vision in America. a thing. him in so doing.” He wants us to do this for Jesus, the Bible Individual Freedom: The Priesthood of George Truett said, “God wants free be- and for the sake of the Gospel truth itself. each Believer is critical to Baptist effec- lievers or none at all.” If we do not pre- We cannot compromise Jesus’ true char- tiveness. It means God can call, lead, di- serve this truth in Baptist life, who will! acter. We cannot compromise the Bible’s rect anyone in specific situations for spe- We ground commitment to religious lib- authority and purpose. Freedom under cific ministries anywhere. It means we are erty first in our commitment to evange- Christ is essential to being effective part- all ministers. lism. We want the freedom to preach Jesus ners with God in carrying out the Great What will happen to evangelism when anywhere, anytime, within the bounds of Commission. We do what we do because they vest all authority in the pastor and do religious civility. Many fundamentalists at- of so much more to God and His Word not challenge lay persons to be ministers? tack religious freedom because they want than fundamentalists will ever see. We resist fundamentalism for the sake of to use the state’s power to promote Jesus, One Baptist vision will dominate the 21st evangelism! Without the priesthood of each enforce and spread faith. Authentic Bap- century. Will it be the vision of personal believer, Baptist evangelism will die. tists want freedom from the state to preach judgementalism, creedalism and control, or When Richard Jackson was pastor of Jesus. That is a huge difference. will it be the vision of grace and truth, North Phoenix Baptist Church, he baptized We cherish these freedoms. I also want Jesus, the Bible and freedom under Christ? more than 20,000 people. Lay people led to emphasize freedom overall. Search your heart. The answer lies within. most of them to Christ, not Jackson, because Mainstream Baptists must defend and The vision that will survive is the one with he taught them to be authentic Baptists. make freedom a key emphasis of Baptists most people deeply committed to it. — Quote to Consider — “The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary is unembarrassed in our commitment to require all professors to teach ‘in accordance with and not contrary to’ our Abstract of Principles and the Baptist Faith and Message. Furthermore, we expect our professors to hold these convictions as personal beliefs and commitments, not merely as contractual obligations for teaching. This model of robust confessionalism is a critical dimension of our accountability to the churches.” —Al Mohler’s letter/advertisement in the Western Recorder, November 14, 2000

— 5 — An Unhealthy Faith System

Southern Baptist accept God’s word, and where they stand on family and church is- cooperation will follow as day follows sues. Now it is up to the churches to decide night.” with whom they agree — with a liberal, The leader will set up a toxic faith sys- culturally acceptable view of family and tem that allows for free rein and no ac- church, or with a Christ-honoring, Bible- countability. There may be a board of di- believing perspective.” rectors, elders, or deacons, but when the Or consider the leadership and words authoritarian ruler picks them, he or she conveyed by Paul Pressler, “We are going picks people who are easily manipulated to destroy the BGCT!” Charles C. and easily fooled. What appears to be a Special Claims McLaughlin, board of accountability is a rubber-stamp Associate group that merely gives credibility to the 3. The members of the toxic faith system make claims about their character, abili- Coordinator leaders’ moves. The strategy of the SBC takeover was ties, or knowledge that make them “spe- In Stephen Arterbum and Jack Felton’s to appoint only those who agreed with the cial” in some way. Challenging the au- book, Toxic Faith, one chapter identifies leadership as institutional trustees and board thority or correctness of the leader is 10 characteristics of a toxic faith system. or committee members. Paige Patterson equated with challenging the very Word of While the book deals with “religious ad- said, “We want an open, pro-life position God. Who would want to be pitted against diction,” it serves as a description for an in all of our institutions and agencies, deal- the Word of God? unhealthy faith system. After reading those ing with both abortion and euthanasia. Em- Chuck Kelly, President, New Orleans characteristics, it became apparent that the ployees who would be required to agree Baptist Theological Seminary, claimed spe- leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention with the Baptist-elected leadership would cial ability over his predecessor, Landrum are presently exhibiting at least eight of include; professors at the six Baptist semi- Leavell. According to the Times-Picayune these 10 characteristics in terms of their naries, members of the Christian Life Com- of New Orleans in an October 29 article, leadership style. mission which addresses social and moral “It is true,” Kelly said. “Seminary presi- This does not mean that every church concerns, writers of literature published by member led by a fundamentalist-type pas- the Sunday School Board, and employees From the outside, the tor is an unhealthy one. In almost every of denominational hospitals and other agen- church there are persons of deep faith, car- cies.” (The Baptist Messenger, 1986) whole ministry appears ing hearts, sacrificial lifestyles, and fine In a meeting with Directors of Missions negative and punitive, out representatives for what it means to be a in Texas, Patterson was asked about his Christian. Nor, does it mean following the appointments as president of the SBC. Ac- of balance, and distorted SBC leaders makes one an unhealthy Chris- cording to the September article, he and from the love, acceptance, tian. other recent SBC presidents “have tried to However, examine the following char- be as fair as we could,” he said, “but were and forgiveness freely acteristics and determine whether those limited by a commitment that the only given by God and His Son. leading the SBC are contributing to the cre- people to be placed on SBC boards and ation and continuation of an unhealthy faith agencies should be people who affirm ev- dents are consistently conducting careful system. ery syllable of the Bible to be true.” doctrinal screening of faculty, as their pre- decessors always claimed to do.” But the (Due to space limitations only a few examples will be An “Us vs. Them” Mentality given. Excerpts from Toxic Faith will be in italics.) truth of the matter is, they were NOT. And 2. Religious addicts are at war with the while his own predecessor, the Rev. Authoritarianism world to protect their terrain. Religious ad- Leavell, was a conservative committed to 1. The leader is dictatorial and authori- dicts line people up in two camps. There is hiring conservatives, Kelley said he is bet- tarian. Problems arise when the leader no middle ground. A person is either part ter equipped than Leavell to smoke out takes the leadership role as license to dic- of the toxic faith system or against it. Rail- closet moderates hiding behind academic tate whatever he or she feels is right or ing against the evils of the world they make language. “I’m probably more thorough in wrong. There is no room to compromise personal attacks on the sinners and glorify my investigation of faculty candidates than since the dictatorial leader believes that the existence of the saints. Anyone not ad- he was,” Kelly said. everyone should submit to his or her rule hering to the rules is an enemy of the soci- SBC leaders made special claims over without question. ety and everyone in it. the abilities of Herschel Hobbs. According T. C. Pinckney, leader of the new fun- Patterson stated, “To my way of think- to the BGCT Seminary Study Committee damentalist State Convention in Virginia, ing, there’s no room in Baptist life for all report, two of the four seminary presidents said denominational leaders should not ne- viewpoints.” (Charlotte Observer, 1998) In said, “There was not a professional theolo- gotiate with others who don’t share their addition to calling Texas a weak state for gian among the 1963 BF&M committee. theology. “The Southern Baptist tent should not following the direction of the SBC, The closest thing they had to a professional be just as broad as God’s word-no broader, Patterson stated, “I am grateful that the theologian was Herschel Hobbs, and he was no narrower,” Pinckney said. “Scripture, BGCT leadership has made crystal clear duped.” They maintain unnamed neo-or- not cooperation, is primary. Let every for the sake of the Texas Baptist churches thodox theologians suggested the language — 6 — of the 1963 BF&M to the writers. at Southeastern with 88% of the theology have made strong statements to the con- To challenge some SBC leaders appears faculty being new hires since 1992. trary of the erroneous accusations. like a challenge to the very Word of God. A long list of persons can be provided James Merritt warned of “spiritual croco- Richard Land, President of the SBC Ethics that have been forced to retire, resign, or diles that line the banks of the river of & Religious Liberty Commission said, “Let have been fired since the SBC purging be- Christianity” and “stealth liberals who fly is be clearly understood that Dr. Glazener gan. in under spiritual radar.” (From Merritt’s and those who support him in the intent of Closed Communication convention sermon to the SBC in 1998) the BGCT’s motion have a disagreement No Objective Accountability with the Apostle Paul, not merely with the 5. Communication is from the top down Southern Baptist Convention. As for me or from the inside out. Information is valid 7. Religious addicts lack objective ac- and my house, we are going to stick with only if it comes from the top of the organi- countability. the Apostle Paul.” zation and is passed down to the bottom or Accountability is questionable when R. Albert Mohler, Jr., President of the from within the organization and shared seminary trustees approve a request from Southern Seminary said, “The motion with the outside. With an attitude of spiri- the wife of the seminary president for ex- adopted by the BGCT is an intentional re- tual superiority, religious addicts reinforce travagant refurbishing of her residence. jection of a clear teaching of the Bible.” that they are always in greater touch with According to the May 13, Biblical Re- He added, “Their problem is not with the God’s truth, more sensitive to God’s will, corder article, Dorothy Patterson, wife of SBC; it’s with the Apostle Paul.” and more worthy of being listened to than the president and an assistant professor of When asked about the prohibition on anyone else. Womens Studies, described a need for a women pastors, Land responded, “We don’t A much-cited criticism of SBC manage- $230,000 expansion of Magnolia Hill, the really have a choice. I’m not in the habit of ment is the practice of top-down control or residence of the Pattersons. “We want to asking God why he does things. I just say, coercion. For example, in July a Baptist be the center of hospitality (on campus),” ‘Yes, sir.’” Press article reported Morris Chapman, Dorothy Patterson told Trustees. She wants Kelley stated, “The BF&M document president of the SBC Executive Commit- to add a utility room, a library, a living simply states what the Bible teaches.” He tee, and Wyndell O. Jones, president of the area, and a bedroom where her grandchil- added, “Those who do not accept the revi- Association of State Baptist Executive Di- dren or other guests can sleep. Trustees sion are basing their belief on experience rectors initiated a meeting of State Execu- approved the expenditure and indicated it and not on the Bible.” tive Directors to form a Task Force on Co- could be funded through private donations. In other words, the Bible and the new operation. Results were, Chapman was Paige Patterson wrote the BGCT Semi- 2000 BF&M, which these men helped to named the Chairman of the Task Force. nary Study Committee Chairman. “I can shape, are synonymous. (Who would, therefore, represent the State appreciate the difficulty of taking 15 com- Executive Directors?) Jones would, and mittee members to a seminary.” Punitive Nature three others that he and Chapman would However, he added, “By the same to- 4. The minister addicted to power pun- appoint. ken, we did not appoint the committee nor ishes and purges the system of anybody Labeling ask for it, and we are not directly account- who would upset the status quo. From the able to State Convention committees any- outside, the whole ministry appears nega- 6. The technique of labeling is used to way.” tive and punitive, out of balance, and dis- discount a person who opposes the beliefs torted from the love, acceptance, and for- of the religious addict. Labeling attempts Legalism giveness freely given by God and His Son. to dehumanize persons so that dismissing 8. Rules are distortions of God’s intent The first president of Midwestern Semi- them or their opinion is much easier. La- and leave Him out of the relationship. In nary to be selected by a fundamentalist/ bels must be used to polarize the oppo- God’s place, rules are implemented. They conservative board of trustees was later dis- nents and energize the followers to fight believe their rules are accurate interpreta- missed for “misappropriation of anger.” It against those opponents. Once the label is tions of God’s standards. It becomes a faith is reported that “expression of anger had in place, it becomes more difficult to see system based on don’ts rather than a faith irreparably damaged his ability” to lead the that person as a human with real needs centered on God. seminary. and the potential for good judgment. It is well known that the revisions of the When the Southwestern Seminary Board Most are aware of the consistent use of 1963 BF&M are used as a litmus test for of Trustees were preparing to fire Russell the word “liberal” to describe those who service in the SBC and its institutions. Wil- Dilday, trustee Chair Ralph Pulley said, disagree with SBC leaders, such as the 1995 liam O. Crews, president of Golden Gate “We don’t need a reason. We can do it. We mailed brochure, Leadership Links of South- Seminary, writing on behalf of the semi- have the votes, and we will [fire Dilday].” ern Baptists in Liberal Organizations. Blan- nary President’s Council said, “All six of A purging of the present system is an ket accusations are common. “States like the seminaries stand together in affirming obvious one when considering the signifi- Texas, Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, that we will indeed make the 2000 Baptist cant faculty turnover in SBC seminaries. and Mississippi have strong liberal infiltra- Faith and Message Statement an issue of The purging continues. Since 1995, South- tion.” (Plumbline, published by Southern non-negotiable accountability for all who western Seminary has enlisted 37.5% new Baptists of Texas) teach in our institutions.” faculty, Southern Seminary exceeds South- Other terms used to describe those who In summary, a Baptist Press article car- western with over 66.6% of new faculty disagree are as demeaning as “skunks, infi- ried the words of R. Albert Mohler, Jr.: since 1993. Forty-two full-time Southern dels, half-infidels, gallstones, parasites, bar- “This statement [2000 BF&M] is a regula- Seminary faculty members resigned, retired, nacles and rats.” CBF and BGCT are con- tive document for use by the agencies and or were fired between 1992 and 1996. An- stantly under attack as supporters of homo- institutions and seminaries of the denomi- other significant purge of faculty occurred sexuality and abortion. Both organizations nation.” — 7 — The Call to ness Across The Centuries, “Creeds are the sheer rock face. Below there was nothing uninspired, fallible systems of man mas- but air to support the wings of each child. Spiritual querading as the final measure of faith. ‘Is it possible that this time it will not work?’ Freedom Creeds tend to alienate people from each she thought. Despite her fears, the eagle other and ultimately from God himself.” knew it was time. Her parental mission was Phil Lineberger, Some say that we have always had con- all but complete. There remained one final pastor, Williams fessions of faith. Again McBeth says, “The task, the push. Trace Baptist difference between a confession and a creed “The eagle drew courage from an in- is this: nate wisdom. Until her child discovered Church, ¥A confession designates what people their wings, there was no purpose for their Houston lives. Until they learned how to soar, they DO believe would fail to understand the privilege it ¥a creed what they MUST believe was to have been born an eagle. The push Editor’s note: The following are excerpts ¥A confession is voluntary and seeks was the greatest gift she had to offer. It from the message delivered at the TBC to inform, educate, and inspire was her supreme act of love. And so one by annual breakfast in Corpus Christi. The one she pushed them, and they flew!” text is Galatians 5:1-2. ¥a creed is REQUIRED and serves to DIS- CIPLINE and EXCLUDE Texas Baptists find themselves in a battle The most important power to keep from being dragged back into an ¥A confession offers guidelines under Old Testament legalism that has resurfaced the authority of Scripture our SBC Fundamentalist in Fundamentalist creedalism. ¥a creed tends to become binding au- creedal leaders have over us Is this fight anything new? NO! It has thority, in subtle ways REPLACING the been around since the First Century. Paul’s Bible.” is the power to make us think letter to the Galatian Christians addressed —(emphasis by Lineberger) we have only one choice. this challenge to spiritual freedom. The Christian faith was at a crossroads We may look back someday and see when Paul wrote the Epistle to the One should not surrender that the greatest gift Fundamental Galatians. Did it continue to flourish in the to man what should be creedalism has given us is a push! Now it freedom Christ gave or did it sink back is up to us to fly! It is our responsibility to into the slavery of Fundamentalist legal- kept sacred to God! protect our freedom in Christ! ism? How do we do this? I want to borrow According to Galatians 5:1-2, freedom We have come to a time in which tell- three phrases from John Chaffee’s The is the reason Christ has set us free. We do ing the truth, acting honestly and treating Thinker’s Way. To protect our freedom we not work ourselves into spiritual freedom. people decently have been sacrificed. They must: think critically, live creatively and Our responsibility is to protect and main- do it in the name of the bottom line-reli- choose freely. tain our spiritual freedom. Paul says we gious control and conformity through a 1. To protect our freedom in Christ we must stand firm and not let ourselves be creedalistic loyalty oath. must think critically. burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Bap- We have come to a time for Christians The word critical comes from the Greek tists did not invent this idea of spiritual identifying with the BGCT, to articulate word for “critic,” which means to question, freedom, but throughout their history they who we want to be. We must use our cre- to make sense of, or to analyze. Jesus ex- have fought to protect it. ative ability to invest that vision with mean- pected critical thinking. Men’s questions For Paul and the First Century Chris- ing and commit ourselves to making choices do not threaten God. tians, the snare that tried to enslave them that will get us there. A Fundamentalist creedalist does not was a Fundamentalist legalism whose sign Changing the course of the BGCT is want a person to think, to question, to make was circumcision, a forced outward con- like changing the course of a large ship. sense of or to analyze. We are simply to formity. The First Century trap of circum- We need to turn the rudder to change sign a loyalty oath. They have the ques- cision and legalism has become the 21st course. The past momentum of the ship tions and the answers. Our role is to learn Century trap of creedalism. makes the turn a gradual process. We will them, not to ask questions of our own. change by choosing to set the rudder on a For our creedalistic SBC leaders, think- Creedalism 21st Century Trap new course and maintaining its position. ing is dangerous. I, however, want to say Paul says in no uncertain terms in verse Questions are always in change. that thinking is not dangerous. Non-think- 2 that if you let Fundamentalist legalism David McNally, writing in Even Eagles ing is dangerous. It endangers our ability trap you, Christ is of no value to you. Say Need a Push, “The eagle gently coaxed to become the people we have the potential no to legalistic creedalism and yes to Christ! her offspring toward the edge of the nest. to be. John Leland, 18th Century Virginia Bap- Her heart quivered with conflicting emo- Do we want schools where students can tist preacher, said, “One must not surren- tions as she felt their resistance to her per- ask questions but professors cannot give der to man what should be kept sacred to sistent nudging. ‘Why does the thrill of soar- honest or thoughtful answers? Do we want God.” Fundamentalist creedalism is an at- ing begin with the fear of falling?’ she schools where an ecclesiastical cap is on tempt to get us to surrender our God-given thought. what one can learn? Do we want churches spiritual freedom in Christ. “As in the tradition of the species, her where people are afraid to dream? Leon McBeth, writing in the Baptist Wit- nest was located high on the shelf of a When a self-appointed ecclesiastical hi- — 8 — erarchy, a 21st Century Sanhedrin, tells us allowed no light in the slave quarters for bile looked alike. It was deadening. People that all power and authority in life belong fear they might read, learn and question who fight against creativity will always be only to men, based on Ephesians 5:22-33, their own slavery. For the slaves, freedom there. ask them about Ephesians 5:21, which com- and light went hand in hand! It is time for Do we really want to achieve genuine mands the Christian couple to submit to Texas Baptist’s to think critically! fulfillment or are we willing to settle for one another out of reverence for Christ or 2. To protect our freedom in Christ, we superficial contentment? It is time for Texas mutual submission. must live creatively. Baptists to live creatively! When a self-appointed ecclesiastical hi- The novelist Dostoyevsky observed, 3. To protect our freedom, we must erarchy tells you that a Sanhedrin will de- “Taking a new step, uttering a new word, choose freely! termine if you believe the right things about is what people fear most.” Yet, taking new The most important power our SBC lead- the Bible based upon their creed, remind steps, uttering new words will be the only ers have over us is the power to make us them that Romans 14:12 says that each of way for us to become what God wants us think we have only one choice. That, how- us will give an account of himself to God. to be. ever, is not God’s way. God has created us John Leland said the rights of conscience Christianity was a new step and a new as free moral agents. He gave us the free were inalienable, for “every man must give word in the First Century. Jesus spoke of will to love and follow Him. He also made an account of himself to God, and there- God’s grace as new wine they could not us free to reject Him and go our own way. fore every man ought to be at liberty to contain in old wineskins. His major ob- Texas Baptists have many choices for serve God in a way that he can best recon- stacles to this new freedom were the creedal accomplishing the Great Commission. We cile to his conscience.” Fundamentalist. They remained His enemy have the resources to reach not only Texas, until they could put Him on the cross. When but to network with like-minded Christians We have the resources to they put Him on the cross, they thought to reach the whole world for Christ. they were doing God a favor. reach not only Texas, but The idea of gifts of the Spirit in the to network with like- New Testament is a witness to God’s cre- Do we really want to achieve ativity in His people’s lives. The gender of minded Christians to the individual does not limit the Spirit’s genuine fulfillment or are we reach the whole world for gifting. If God has gifted you, you have a willing to settle for moral responsibility to fulfill that gift as superficial contentment? Christ. best you can. No convention leader gifted you. No convention leader can take away When a self-appointed ecclesiastical hi- your gift. No convention leader called you. Real freedom consists of making erarchy asks you to give sacrificially to Jesus did. thoughtful choices from among available missions offerings, ask them why they in- The greatest ideas we have today came options. We can have choices reflecting our vest almost $500 million mission dollars in because people were willing to live cre- true desires and deepest values. Resisting banks rather than in people. Remind them atively. While the price of creativity may pressure to surrender our autonomy to ex- that when they reorganized the SBC agen- sometimes be high, the debilitating cost of ternal pressures or internal forces is our cies in 1995, they said it was to give mis- conformity is always higher! Creativity God-given right. Our choices may be pain- sions more money. helps us overcome the coercion of confor- ful, but it is the sort of pain that leads to Ask them why the International Mis- mity. When people impose rigid limitations growth. When the pain of same becomes sion Board budget went up 18.2 percent, or fixed boundaries, creativity cannot ex- greater than the pain of change, we will the North American Mission Board budget ist. There are guidelines but not unbreak- change! went up 11.8 percent, while the Ethics and able rules. The pain for traditional Baptists has Religious Liberty Commission budget has Religious leaders have been reluctant to lasted 21 years. We need a change. We can gone up 78.35 percent and the SBC Execu- change because of vested interests. In 1543, choose to educate rather than indoctrinate. tive Committee budget has gone up 32.96 the Polish astronomer, Nicolaus Copernicus, We can choose to network with like-minded percent. published a book arguing that the sun, not Christians in friendly cooperation rather When a self-appointed ecclesiastical hi- the earth was the center of the solar sys- than be bound to denominational leaders erarchy tells you that Neo-orthodox people tem. This ran counter to the theological who limit what we can do by an oath of misled Herschel Hobbs, one of Southern beliefs of the time, and he paid with his life loyalty. Baptists greatest scholars, when he helped for this heresy. We can choose to work with honest construct the 1963 Baptist Faith and Mes- Sixty-eight years later, the Italian physi- people. We can choose to work with people sage, ask them if we are to believe the cist and astronomer, Galileo also challenged who respect differences. We can choose to words of Morris Chapman and Jimmy church leaders by championing run the race marked out for us rather than Draper, carried on the back of the Baptist Copernicus’ views. He was summoned to waste our money and our energies on frivo- Faith and Message book in 1998. (See page Rome, where he was interrogated before lous controversies. We can choose to be 10 for quotes) the Inquisition and forced to publicly re- anchored in Texas and reach the world! Henry Ward Beecher said that after nounce his beliefs. Let us protect our spiritual freedom by Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation When I visited the Soviet Union in 1982, thinking critically, living creatively and Proclamation, freeing the slaves, the slaves to preach, deadening conformity struck me. choosing freely. We must have no reserve, asked first for candles. The slave masters Every airline was Aeroflot. Every automo- no retreat, no regret! — 9 — Reflection on the Seminary Study Committee Herschel Hobbs J. Dowell Loftis, pastor tinue to support his seminary while cutting moves from Shearer Hills Baptist Church, San Antonio funds to the other seminaries. “brilliant” to “duped” The Baptist General Convention of Please hear this, at his request, his semi- Texas recently held its annual meeting in nary was treated in concert with all the Then — Corpus Christi. As most of you know, the others for he said to treat him differently The Baptist Faith and Message book published in 1971, written by BGCT voted to redirect some funds away would “draw a bulls-eye” on his back with Herschel Hobbs, which was revised from the six Southern Baptist seminaries the SBC leadership. I find it unbelievably in 1996 and last reprinted in 1998 and to send those funds to Texas institu- disingenuous for him to turn down our sup- has the following endorsements on tions; Truett Seminary in Waco, Logsdon port and then accuse us of abandoning them. the back cover: Seminary in Abilene, and the Hispanic Third, we were sending $14.90 outside “Herschel Hobbs’ brilliance, convic- Bible Institute in San Antonio. the state for theological education for ev- tion, and compassion will make him This move was made on the recommen- ery $1.00 we spent in the state. Our com- a lasting memory in the minds of dation of the Seminary Study Committee, mittee felt it was better stewardship of your Southern Baptists for all time to a special committee created the year before come. As chief architect of “The at the annual meeting in El Paso. I had the We were also told that Baptist Faith and Message,” he honor of serving on the Seminary Study practiced what he preached; a Committee and I would like to share with Southwestern has no faithful witness to all and a wonder- ful friend to many.” you a few things concerning that experi- more ties to Texas than —Morris H. Chapman, President and ence. Some of these things you’ve prob- Chief Executive Officer, Executive ably heard, some you have not. to any other state in Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention Our committee found no the SBC. “No one in Southern Baptist life has joy in discovering the money to support our own Texas seminar- cast a longer shadow of influence in our times than Herschel H. Hobbs. ies that hold to traditional Baptist doctrines depth of the changes that He is the architect and spokesman and are young and have very little endow- for “The Baptist Faith and Message” have taken place in the ment funds; instead of continuing to sup- statement and has long been port well- established institutions with large recognized as the authority in this SBC Seminaries. area. This revision of this wonderful endowments that are moving away from book is one of his last accomplish- First, there is no doubt that the SBC traditional Baptist thought and practice. ments before he went home to be seminaries have changed. It greatly sad- Fourth, it has been an absolute shame with the Lord. Praise God for his dened me to find that the Southwestern Bap- the way the Hispanic Bible Institute has faithfulness. These pages will be an invaluable aid in studying this tist Theological Seminary that I attended been neglected down through the years. no longer exists. pivotal document in our Southern By 2030, demographers tell us that His- This was never more evident than when Baptist life.” panics will be the largest ethnic group in we met with President Hemphill and some —Jimmy Draper, President, The Texas. Today, over 97% of the Hispanic Sunday School Board of the Southern of the faculty and trustees. We were told Baptist Convention during that meeting that if a person felt pastors in Texas, who have any formal theo- good about the BGCT, that would almost logical education, got it at the Hispanic Now — certainly disqualify them from being hired Bible Institute. We felt that to invest in this SBC apologist Jerry Sutton ex- to teach at Southwestern. strategic institution was vital to the Lord’s plained the alterations saying, “The If you know your history, that’s a long work in Texas. 1963 committee was in many ways way from the position of the B.H. Carrolls Finally, understand that all the recom- naive and they permitted neo- and the George W. Truetts of the past. We orthodox language to be inserted mendations that came were made after ex- were also told that Southwestern has no unbeknownst to most of them.” haustive research, careful examination of more ties to Texas than to any other state “Two of the four seminary presi- in the SBC. That statement speaks for it- the facts, and much prayer. dents said, ‘There was not a profes- self! Our committee found no joy in discov- sional theologian among the 1963 Second, the committee has been accused ering the depth of the changes that have BF&M committee. The closest thing of not caring about fulfilling the Lord’s taken place in the SBC seminaries. How- they had to a professional theolo- gian was Herschel Hobbs, and he work outside the borders of Texas. In fact, ever, we found great joy in recommending one seminary president who has spoken the was duped.’ They maintain that that Truett, Logsdon, and the Hispanic Bible unnamed neo-orthodox theologians loudest about Texas abandoning the rest of Institute be more properly funded. By suggested the language of the 1963 the world was offered continued support BF&M to the writers.” because the committee found no fault with adopting these measures in Corpus Christi, Texas Baptists have assured that the future —Seminary Study the workings of his seminary. He was asked Committee Findings directly by the committee if we could con- of theological education is bright in Texas! — 10 — Texas Baptists take a solid stand for historic Baptist distinctives

who call themselves Christian: Catho- ism. Now, if only every Texas Baptist lic, Protestant and Orthodox. will learn Spanish! ¥ They re-upped their intense dedica- Ethical note: tion to personal religious experience, ¥ Texas Baptists, it is fervently hoped, the right and responsibility of every reminded Southern Baptist spokesmen President, believer to read and understand the that you cannot fool all of the people BJC Bible for himself/herself. No creed that all of the time. The sub-Christian be- Endowment must be signed or hierarchy that must havior of the fundamentalists back- fired. High-handed hubris fell flat James Dunn (I Corinthians 10:12). Taxation with- No creed that must be signed out representation won’t work in a or hierarchy that must be democratic polity. “The Baptist Convention of Texas is not obeyed can trump one’s ¥ But more seriously the basic ethic of a farm club of the Southern Baptist Con- responsible freedom was lifted up. The vention,” Dr. McBride of First Baptist immediate access to God and one distinctive gift of Baptists to the Church, San Angelo, said almost a decade individual accountability. larger family of faith in the biblical ago. On Oct. 30, more than 74 percent of tradition (Christians, Jews, Muslims) those at the annual state convention proved is the emphasis on soul freedom, the true his prophecy. be obeyed can trump one’s immedi- competence of the individual before It’s easy to dismiss this action as an ate access to God and individual ac- God. internal church fight. Wrong! The decision countability. Everyone hankers for that by Texas Baptists to chart their own course sort of vital and voluntary religion. Taxation without has meaning for most believers, not only Everyone from new age seekers to representation won’t work in Baptists. It has political implications. It square-baled, thick-skinned, narrow- springs from theological depth. It will have minded, hard-shelled Baptists hungers a democratic polity. social consequences. It sounds an ethical for intimate personal faith. There is, note. indeed, a God-shaped empty space in We believe and identify with all oth- How so? every life. ers who join this accountable band Political implications: Social consequences: that persons can, must, do and will ¥ Texas Baptists rejected the religious ¥ Texas Baptists committed significant decide for themselves about their re- right posture of the Southern Baptist funding (big bucks) to theological edu- lationship with God. When anyone’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commis- cators that they know and trust. Lay religious liberty is denied, everyone’s sion. That agency, identified with persons demonstrated that they know religious liberty is en-dangered. We school vouchers, football prayers and the difference between indoctrination hold that religious freedom, not mere right-wing candidates, does not speak and education, between close-minded, toleration, is a universal human right, for Texas Baptists. propositional, safety-first, creed-sign- that self-determination about affilia- ¥ Public servants need to know that Bap- ing professors and those who refuse tion, beliefs and policies are a logical tists in Texas will face political is- to be bound. W.T. Connor said “ev- consequence of that right and respon- sues, fight injustice, form coalitions ery generation must rewrite its theol- sibility. for social change, but will not aban- ogy.” We’ve just got to speak the lan- So Baptists resist a binding creed, a don historic Baptist church-state sepa- guage to share the message. propositional religiosity, a book-bound ration principles. ¥ They took note of the demography of bibliolatry, any external control of a local Theological depth: the state and the opportunity for out- church, any use of the state by the church ¥ Texas Baptists affirmed their loyalty reach. As the state rapidly becomes or any use of the church by the state. to Jesus Christ as the ultimate test for multilingual, the Hispanic Baptist At least, real Baptists do. Texas Bap- biblical interpretation and doctrinal Theological School is being enabled tists took a big step toward staying Bap- clarity. This view is shared by those to equip leaders for the new plural- tists. — Quote to Consider — “We’ll probably end up getting more. Half the churches in Texas won’t cooperate with the state convention [BGCT]. Many of them are going to get around the state or leave the [state] convention. We’re already getting checks.” Patterson said the actions in Texas amounted to “a gnat on a rhinoceros’ horn.” Interview with Paige Patterson, News and Observer, November 11, 2000

— 11 — ‘Baptist Faith and Message’ revisions take center stage at state conventions By Bob Allen, ABP Baptist state conventions in Alabama and Tennessee are the lat- est to give qualified support to more conservative theology ex- pressed in recent revisions to the Southern Baptist Convention’s official faith statement. The last time Southern Baptists reviewed the “Baptist Faith and Message,” in 1963, the presidents of the various state conventions affiliated with the denomination formed the drafting committee in an effort to honor regional diversity. Following a 20-year movement aimed at returning the nation’s largest Protestant faith group to its “conservative roots,” however, the SBC president handpicked a committee for revisions approved this summer. The group sought to eliminate loopholes that allegedly allowed liberals to infiltrate seminaries and agencies during the 1960s and 1970s. Changes in the faith statement included limiting the office of pastor to men, calling for wives to submit to their husbands and eliminating references to Jesus as the criterion for interpreting the Bible. Not surprisingly, they became in effect a referendum in several state conventions this fall on what has been coined the “conservative resurgence” that gained control of the national body in the 1980s. The Baptist General Convention of Texas, the SBC’s largest ment. affiliate, cited changes in the faith statement in reducing support to Colo- six SBC seminaries and two other agencies by more than $5 million. rado Bap- Another moderate stronghold, the Baptist General Association of tists also voted to Virginia, voted to create a committee to determine whether its na- make the 2000 “Baptist tional mission partners are consistent with its own approach, with- Faith and Message” their out specifically naming the SBC. official faith statement, de- In contrast, Louisiana Baptists, who in recent years have sought feating an amendment that would have broadened constitu- reconciliation between conservative and moderate factions, voted to tional language to include any of the three SBC statements. make the 2000 “Baptist Faith and Message” the state convention’s Oklahoma Baptists overwhelmingly adopted a resolution official statement of belief. It marked the first time that Louisiana affirming the 2000 statement, defeating two amendments pro- Baptists have approved a confession of faith. posed from the floor. Georgia Baptists approved by about a two-thirds margin a reso- Several state conventions, meanwhile, sought a middle road, lution affirming “approval and appreciation” for the new faith state- affirming ties with the SBC by recognizing the revised faith ’Mainstream’ group organizes in Illinois By Michael Leathers

CARBONDALE, Ill. (ABP) — In the wake of a state “I want us all to have freedom to cooperate around the annual meeting where debate over the “Baptist Faith essentials of doctrine and around issues relating to evangelism and Message” family amendment captured some of and missions.” the limelight, a gathering of Southern Baptists has Although a press release said the Illinois organization was announced the formation of a group to keep Illinois a conceived as a response to the so-called fundamentalist takeover free-Baptist state, its first president said. of the Southern Baptist Convention, Foskey said no particular The newly formed group, Mainstream Illinois incidents on the state level triggered the group’s formation. Baptists, is patterned after similar statewide “I personally have not seen a whole lot of political controversy in organizations that have issued a call for a return to Illinois,” he said, describing the group’s formation as a what they call traditional Baptist principles and are preventative measure. at odds with the conservative leadership of the The press release said the group’s two purposes are to protect Southern Baptist Convention. the Illinois Baptist State Association from “fundamentalist “We are trying to help keep Illinois free for people to aggression,” while supporting its programs and personnel, and be as conservative as they want to be,” said Sam to “educate about and preserve traditional Baptist beliefs,” such Foskey, president of Mainstream Illinois Baptists and as the priesthood of the believer, local-church autonomy and pastor of University Baptist Church of Carbondale. soul competency.

— 12 — as their “final authority for faith and prac- While the “Baptist Faith and Message” tice,” noting that it is up to churches to drew the most attention in state meetings choose what faith statement they use. Ken- this year, some conventions featured hotly tucky Baptists voted Nov. 14 to appoint a contested elections for president and other committee to study changes to the docu- officers, pitting candidates backed by con- ment and report back next year. servatives and moderates vying for control In other states, a majority of messengers of state organizations. approved adding the 2000 statement to their North Carolina moderates, after losing constitution and bylaws but were thwarted key elections for several years, elected two because votes fell short of a required two- vice presidents this year. President Mike Cummings, who won a second term unop- thirds majority. posed, is a conservative but is well-liked Arkansas Baptists voted just short of a by both sides. two-thirds majority to make the 2000 “Bap- Kentucky Baptists elected former mis- tist Faith and Message” their doctrinal sionary Jim McKinney as president. Backed guideline. As a result, the 1963 statement by moderates, he defeated conservative can- will remain the convention’s faith state- didate Kevin Ezell, pastor of Highview Bap- ment. Later, they passed resolutions sup- tist Church in Louisville, 1,091-978. statement while porting the Southern Baptist Convention carefully avoid- Louisiana Baptists re-elected Tommy and against the Cooperative Baptist Fel- French, a conservative, to a second term as ing language that lowship, a moderate group based in At- president. South Carolina Baptists elected might exclude lanta. a conservative president, Wendell Estep, churches that disagree. Illinois Baptists didn’t get a two-thirds pastor of First Baptist Church in Colum- The Alabama Baptist vote to add a 1998 family amendment, bia, by acclamation. Convention approved a which is retained in the most recent “Bap- Missouri conservatives swept elected of- resolution affirming the 2000 tist Faith and Message” revision, to their fices in for the third straight year, buoyed “Baptist Faith and Message,” constitution. They later adopted a non-bind- by a record attendance credited to get-out- but also earlier versions in ing resolution, however, affirming the fam- the-vote efforts by competing conservative 1963 and 1925, as non- ily statement. and moderate organizations. binding “guides for bet- ter understanding doc- trinal practices of faith.” The resolution urged the ’Mainstream’ group gets state’s Baptists to “uti- lize the ‘Baptist Faith underway in North Carolina and Message’ as a resource” and affirmed commitment to the Bible as By Tony Cartledge the “sole authority for faith and practice.” RALEIGH, N.C. (ABP) — A group of pastors who say they want to preserve The Tennessee Baptist Convention historic Baptist principles and protect the Baptist State Convention of North passed a resolution acknowledging the Carolina and its institutions has taken steps toward the formation of a “Baptist Faith and Message” as “a source “Mainstream Baptists” group. of information in assisting believers to ex- North Carolina is the ninth state to form a centrist/moderate network press their faith” while affirming the Bible patterned loosely after Texas Baptists Committed, an organization led by as “the final authority for faith and prac- David Currie. tice.” Florida Baptists updated their constitu- Organizers have planned six regional laity conferences to talk about changes tion to make the 2000 version of the faith in the newly revised “Baptist Faith and Message” statement and other issues. They will also promote a Laity Conference to be held on Monday, Nov. 13, at statement, rather than the 1963 edition, their College Park Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. official statement of faith, declaring soli- darity with the SBC. They declined, how- Speakers for the 2-4 p.m. gathering have not yet been confirmed. None of the ever, to make the new statement a litmus pastors involved wanted to start another movement, said David Hughes, test for leadership, allowing a nominating pastor of Winston-Salem’s First Baptist Church. Hughes strongly supported committee to consider trustees from the shared-leadership effort that failed to win a two-thirds majority at the state convention’s annual meeting last year. He appeared in a promotional churches that embrace any similar state- video shown at the convention meeting, saying that he didn’t want to spend ment of historic Baptist principles. another five minutes on political maneuvering. New Mexico Baptists approved a rec- ommendation making fidelity to the Bible “And I still don’t,” he said, “but the truth is worth standing for.” and support for the Cooperative Program Hughes said he had no regrets about his deep involvement in promoting criteria for convention leaders. In New shared leadership and described the decision to get involved in the Mexico, gifts to the unified budget are di- mainstream movement as “gut-wrenching.” vided between New Mexico and Southern “I saw we would either have to give up and give in, and have a hard time Baptist causes, unless a church designates living with ourselves, or try a new tack,” he said. “We had hoped this would otherwise. not be necessary.” Mississippi Baptists affirmed the Bible — 13 — BGCT Takes Historic Steps

Adapted from ABP article by mit to their husbands and the deletion of a leaders can take place,” he continued. “The Greg Warner and Bob Allen phrase in the earlier edition that said Jesus right conversation needs to take place with Texas Baptists agreed by a 4-to-1 mar- Christ is the criterion for interpreting Scrip- the right people. It would be wrong to try gin Oct. 30 to cut $4.3 million from six ture. to close the door. But I don’t see any open- Southern Baptist seminaries they say have A special committee conducted a six- ness.” abandoned some traditional Baptist beliefs month study of SBC seminaries before rec- Ken Hemphill, president of Southwest- and forced doctrinal conformity on their ommending the funding cut in September. ern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort faculties and trustees. Instead the money The BGCT’s 200-member Executive Board Worth, Texas, said he wished there had will be spent on three theological schools voted overwhelmingly Sept. 26 to pass the been an opportunity to respond to some of in Texas. committee’s report on to the state conven- the charges by the BGCT committee. Before approving the report of the Semi- tion. “Many of the points we made [to the study nary Study Committee, messengers easily In recommending the seminary plan to committee] were ignored” in the final re- defeated an amendment that would have the convention, study committee chairman port, he said. phased in the funding cuts over three years. Bob Campbell said the new faith statement Other messengers, who numbered 6,475 at is called “an instrument of doctrinal ac- “Let us leave behind the the time of the vote, said they were at- countability” and is being used to “demand tempting to make motions when debate was creedal adherence” from those who teach contant battle with other called off. in SBC seminaries. He said it is inaccurate to say Texas Baptists. We can no “Anyone who says Texas Baptists are breaking off a 92-year rela- longer be embroiled with tionship with the SBC abruptly. “It has been Baptists believe the Bible decided over 21 years,” he said, referring those who want to teach is just another book to the two-decade dominance of fundamen- talist/conservatives in the SBC. rigid creedalism” knows he’s lying even as “Let us leave behind the constant battle —Bob Campbell with other Baptists,” Campbell said. “We Chair of Seminary Study Committee he speaks.” can no longer be embroiled with those who —Dr. Clyde Glazener want to teach rigid creedalism.” Before the Hemphill said the revised “Baptist Faith BGCT President discussion, Charles Wade, executive direc- and Message” is “an excellent document” tor of the Texas convention, said it was and that Southwestern Seminary gladly A separate vote further reduced money necessary to approve the plan to get the “stands accountable to the Southern Bap- the state will send to the SBC next year by attention of Southern Baptist leaders. tist Convention.” another $1.1 million, slashing funds to the “[W]e need to do this because Southern Three schools in Texas stand to benefit SBC Executive Committee to a token Baptist leaders have shown greater will- from the funding change. Baylor $10,000 and completely defunding the Eth- ingness to talk with Texas Baptists in the University’s George W. Truett Theological ics and Religious Liberty Commission. last six weeks than ever before,” Wade said. Seminary in Waco and Hardin-Simmons With one of every six Southern Baptists “If we vote to do this today and the University’s Logsdon School of Theology living in Texas, however, and 13 percent of churches heartily follow the recommenda- in Abilene, which both opened in 1996, the SBC’s funding coming from the state, tions adopted, then I believe we may have will each receive a share of the $4.3 fund- Texas Baptists’ decision to redefine their some influence with Southern Baptist lead- ing cut from SBC schools, along with His- relationship to the 41,000-church national ers.” panic Baptist Theological School in San body could be the most far-reaching to date. Wade said he hoped the SBC would be Antonio. The Texas funding cuts culminate sev- persuaded to consider changes to the newly In weeks prior to the BGCT annual meet- eral years of disagreement between funda- adopted “Baptist Faith and Message” state- ing, SBC leaders launched an unprec- mentalist/conservative leaders of the SBC ment to allow more differences of opinion edented effort to urge Texas Baptists to and the conservative/moderate-led BGCT, and freedom of interpretation. attend their state convention and defeat the the largest SBC affiliate with some 2.7 mil- Albert Mohler, president of one of the proposal. The SBC Executive Committee lion members. defunded schools, said there is no provi- started a special Web site and mass mailed The dispute came to a head this summer sion in the plan for further discussion. material to Texas Baptist churches coun- when the SBC approved a rewrite of its “They didn’t say ‘We want a hearing.’ They tering criticism leveled by Texas Baptist “Baptist Faith and Message.” Texas Bap- said, ‘This is how we will fund the semi- leaders. tist leaders have been critical of the rewrite naries,’” said Mohler, president of South- A companion recommendation also ap- and say it is un-Baptist to use it as a creed. ern Baptist Theological Seminary in Lou- proved Oct. 30 eliminates $345,000 in fund- Among disputed changes in the faith isville, Ky. ing for the SBC Ethics and Religious Lib- statement are a ban on women preachers, a “Only time will tell whether any fruitful erty Commission and reduces an allocation family article that says wives should sub- discussion between the SBC and BGCT to the SBC Executive Committee from

— 14 — $746,000 to $10,000. Texas leaders say they have been routinely criticized and “slan- Wade cites SBC’s ‘rigid limitations’ as dered” by the Executive Committee and its news service, Baptist Press, and that the cause for rift with Texas Baptists SBC’s social-concerns agency has turned into a partisan political organization instead By Scott Collins and Mark Wingfield guage concerning the Bible, they could not of educating churches about moral and ethi- CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (ABP) — be considered for service. People who be- cal issues. The crisis that prompted Texas Baptists to lieve the Bible were not eligible because The BGCT also gave final approval to eliminate more than $5 million in funding they would not frame their convictions re- constitutional changes that allow churches for the Southern Baptist Convention was garding the Bible using the special code from outside Texas as members of the state caused by “rigid limitations” imposed by word,” he said. group. Some say the change opens the door SBC leaders, Charles Wade told messen- Wade then held up a letter he received for the Texas convention to become a re- gers to the Baptist General Convention of within the last month from SBC president gional body rivaling the SBC. Other ob- Texas annual session Oct. 30. James Merritt, who was asking state-con- servers, however, say it is unlikely that large In his first convention report as BGCT vention executive directors to nominate in- numbers of churches from other states will executive director, Wade addressed head- dividuals for service on SBC boards and join the BGCT. The stated intent for the on what he labeled “a controversy that committees. change is to allow moderate churches in threatens the Baptist vision.” Wade criti- overwhelmingly fundamentalist/conserva- cized SBC leaders for creating a “non-Bap- tive states, such as Oklahoma, to partici- tist confession of faith” in the revised ver- pate in a state convention where they feel sion of the “Baptist Faith and Message” more at home. adopted by the SBC in June. “And they Messengers adopted a $52 million bud- have proceeded to use it in a non-Baptist get for 2001, which puts in place the new fashion — as a creed rather than as a con- reduced funding levels for Southern Bap- fession of faith,” he added. tist agencies. The budget still includes more “I know there are those who question than $17.8 million in funding for SBC mis- my judgment in this matter,” Wade told sion boards and other ministries. messengers, “but I simply point out that The budget was approved by 74 percent never before have Baptists adopted a state- of messengers, with 26 percent opposed. ment of faith that claims to be an ‘instru- Earlier a motion to cut all funding to causes ment of doctrinal accountability.’” Charles Wade outside Texas was defeated. A motion to Previously, Baptist confessions of faith restore funding of SBC agencies to origi- have been a witness to the community and nal levels was ruled out of order. a guide for instructing new members, Wade “One of the qualifications he listed was Clyde Glazener, pastor of Gambrell said. “Never before have we called a con- that they ‘be fully supportive of our 2000 Street Baptist Church in Fort Worth, was fession of faith an instrument of doctrinal edition of the Baptist Faith and Message,’” re-elected convention president. accountability. Accountable to whom? Wade said. “That means it is not only those In his presidential address, Glazener said Some religious authority? Some ecclesias- who are employed by Southern Baptists, “Any who say Texas Baptists believe the tical committee?” but also any pastor or layperson who might Bible is just another book like any other This is the next progression in a pattern be asked to serve in a position of shaping book knows he’s lying even as he speaks. that Baptists have witnessed over the last policy or making important decisions on We do love the Bible as the Word of God. 21 years, Wade said, a period in which behalf of the rest of us, who will have to But we adore and worship Jesus who is the “there has been a rigid limitation on who sign on to the new confession of faith.” expression of God.” can serve Southern Baptists.” “That makes it either a creed or a loy- “Unless a pro- alty oath or both,” Wade said to loud ap- fessor or a prospec- plause from the audience. tive trustee or com- He also criticized the SBC’s removal mittee member from the “Baptist Faith and Message” of a was prepared to sentence that declared: “The criterion by use certain lan- which the Bible is to be interpreted is Jesus Christ.” “This is not a neo-orthodox idea as some have claimed,” Wade said. “It is a New Testament truth and the consistent view of Baptists since there have been Baptists. And now it has been removed from our confes- sion of faith. .. I am sure they did not in- tend to nudge the Bible into a place of Clyde Glazener, president, Mark Newton, first vice president idolatry, but that is exactly the effect of and Joy Fenner, second vice president. deleting that sentence.” — 15 — Pastor urges Texas Do Texas Baptists Have Amnesia? Baptists to leave By Billy Ray Parmer ies and have only 102 salaried missionaries behind ‘Great Director, Gloria Al Padre and no qualifying or clarifying statement This is a very good question to ask con- about the situation in their funding adver- Commotion’ sidering what I hear in conversation with tisements and requests is deceptive advert- Texas Baptists and as I listen to Texas Bap- izing. By Dan Martin tist pastors and people. Many Baptists have These are only two of many occasions CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (ABP) — some type of lost memory. of deception and denial, practiced by those Texas Baptists “must leave behind the Great First Example: who have captured the SBC and its institu- Commotion for the Great Commission,” I still hear talk of reconciliation. Do Texas tions. Jim Denison said in the annual convention Baptists not remember that at the recent Or- sermon at the Baptist General Convention lando SBC Convention, a motion to form a of Texas. Have Baptists forgotten reconciliation committee was voted down? Denison, pastor of Park Cities Baptist Forget it. The bully who beats up the nice Church in Dallas, said Texas Baptists must the reaction of Jesus to kid and takes his lunch money will not give take two simple but life-transforming steps: it back due to the appeal of words. “First, love the lost with all your heart. . legalistic interpretations Second Example: Second, preach Jesus with all your Do Texas Baptists not remember the strength.” of the law? proven deception of the former Home Mis- Texas Baptists “exist to take the gospel sion Board? In the 1995 Annual of the Bap- Do you want future generations to be of God’s love into our fallen, dark, dying, tist General Convention of Texas there is a trained by those who are forced to sign and decaying, immoral world. Not wait for them full report of the BGCT/HMB Study Com- teach the doctrines of the 2000 Baptist Faith to find us — to find them. To go to them mittee. This report is on pages 124-133. and Message? Doctrinal integrity is more with the incredible good news that God In case you have forgotten the decep- important than harmony. That was why loves us,” Denison insisted. tive practices of the HMB I will remind Jesus so strongly confronted Pharisees in The BGCT annual session in Corpus you. They reported 4,913 home missionar- His ministry and why Paul confronted Pe- Christi was held “in the midst of the great- ies in the 1994 report. Of these, 1,099 were ter publically about his incorrect practice est conflict and commotion we have ever unpaid Mission Service Corps volunteers. of his faith. known as Texas Baptists,” he acknowl- 3,774 were jointly paid by HMB and some Have the Baptists who want peace at edged. other Baptist entity, only 102 were full time any price forgotten the reaction of Jesus to Denison said there are an estimated 10 salaried missionaries. legalistic interpretations of the law? Have million unchurched persons in Texas, “and There were 343 salaried employees at they forgotten that Paul confronted Peter we Baptists have not been famous in recent the HMB office. HELLO! Texas Baptists, publically and forcefully for Peter’s bow- years for loving them.” do you not remember this report? ing under pressure from the Judaizers? A survey of residents who live near the To request funding for 4,913 missionar- Wake up Texas Baptists! North Dallas church where he is pastor dis- covered that people associate the words “pushy,” “self-serving,” “cliquish,” “dis- We are God’s Design… criminates,” “fundamentalists” and “hate- Phil Lineberger, thought of by ful” with Baptists, Denison said. many for his keen wit, “You and I must determine to love the enthusiasm, sense of humor, lost people we know, today, with all our and spiritual depth brings to life hearts. Only then can we prove to them his interpretation of God’s intent that God loves them,” he added. on the progressions of courtship, “Today, we Texas Baptists say to our love, marriage, and commitment world: ‘We love you and Jesus loves you. as told in the Song of Solomon. We are committed to fellowship, to friend- • Don’t Rush Love ship, to unity for the sake of the gospel. We love you, and more importantly, Jesus • The Art of Appreciating Your loves you,’” he stressed. Spouse To critics, Denison said, Texas Baptists • The Joy of Sex say: “We believe that the Scripture is the • Not Older But Better word of God, his truth for the world. We Reserve believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, Dr. Phil Lineberger Your Copy his hope for the world. We believe that the Williams Trace Baptist Church only Great Commission is his purpose for the 16755 Southwest Freeway $10 church, his mission for the world. And we Sugar Land, TX 77479 are ready to get on with it.” (281) 980-4431

— 16 — McLaughlin Accepts Fort Worth Pastorate To my TBC friends, By David R. Currie IT HAS BEEN A GREAT FIVE YEARS! TBC Associate Director, Dr. Charles C. Five years ago this month I moved to San Angelo, beginning my work McLaughlin, has accepted the pastorate of with Texas Baptists Committed. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to Western Hills Baptist Church, Fort Worth. work with David Currie, Charlotte Caffey and some of the finest Baptist He is already preaching each Sunday, and leaders in the country. The pastors are the best and the lay people I have left our staff Dec. 31. worked with are generous, intelligent and full of Christlike conviction. This has been an honor to come to know so many of you as we work together for Charles has done us a wonderful job good to build the kingdom of God. these last five years that he has been a part As my last staff article I want to share a few observations. What does it of our staff. mean when conservative/moderates have passed almost all recommendations While in most cases, it may not be best at the BGCT by a 3-to-1, and this year a 4-to-1 margin? for friends and relatives to work together, It means not only do the changes need to be implemented by the BGCT, this was not the case with Charles and me. we must provide leadership in our churches to help them be better stewards. We had a wonderful relationship and I will We have a lot of educating to do. It means we must learn from the fundamentalist leaders of the SBC, how miss him deeply. NOT to treat those who lose the votes. As conservative/moderates we are not As first cousins, we have known each immune to some of the characteristics found in an unhealthy faith system (see other all our lives and understand each oth- article on page 6). ers gifts, moods and temperaments. I think It means our leaders must continue to be magnanimous. Texas Baptist this is an excellent move for Charles as I institutions play such an important role in kingdom work. Greatness in the always knew that someday he would fol- future may yet be measured by how leaders of an institution will not only low his heart into a position of more direct seek what is best for themselves, but for their sister institutions as well. This personal ministry for which he is immensely also means we Texans must think bigger than Texas as so many Baptists in other states identify with our historic Baptist distinctives. gifted. In the next five years I hope to see our commitment to Hispanic work I know all TBC supporters are aware of continue to make significant strides in education and shared leadership. Women, the tremendous work Charles has done for young leaders and non-pastoral staff (like my Dad before he became the TBC and join me in wishing him an effec- BGCT State Missions Director) must also be given greater opportunities for tive pastorate. service. After January 1, Charles can be reached The workload at TBC has increased dramatically. We have implemented a at Western Hills Baptist Church, 8500 new data base system, so be patient with the staff as changes are made for the better. We have more requests than ever before for help from churches, Chapin Rd, Fort Worth, TX, 76116. The pastors and laypeople. TBC is vitally needed, not only for Texas but for the church phone number is 817-244-0216. Baptist witness across America. No decision has been made on a replace- I am grateful to the people of Western Hills Baptist Church, Fort Worth, ment for Charles as the TBC Administra- for extending a call for me to be their pastor. It takes courage and grace to call tive Committee is working with me to study a person who is divorced and single. I have been the custodial parent of two the best way to structure our office for maxi- daughters since they were 12 and 15 years of age. Both are now attending and mum effectiveness. loving Howard Payne University, my alma mater. San Angelo has been a I welcome their input and am excited great place for their mother and me to be active in their lives. I look forward to continuing my relationship with TBC supporters as one about a period of re-examination of “how of you! to do what we do more effectively.” We hope to have our staff restructured Charles C. McLaughlin Associate Coordinator by February 1.

— Quote to Consider — “The SBC reports a surplus this year of $18-plus million. There’s no reason for anybody to have to suffer at any of the SBC seminaries, if they use the money correctly. “We’re going to stop giving the most money to those who need it least and the least money to those who need it most.” — Rick Davis, pastor, FBC Midlothian, at BGCT

— 17 — BAD THEOLOGY by David Flick Baptists have moved from where I am theo- tion to man is a bad theology. I have very The Baptist Faith and Message 2000 re- logically. strong feelings about the Bible. I believe it minds me of the story about the elderly Never before in Southern Baptist life is the divinely inspired, authoritative, in- gentleman who was taking his wife for a have confessions of faith declared the Bible fallible, written word of God. It is my sole drive in the country on a Sunday after- itself to be God’s revelation of Himself. rule for faith and practice. Nevertheless, I noon. Feeling a bit romantic, the wife re- The first confession of faith used by South- know the Bible is not God’s revelation of minded her husband that during their dat- ern Baptists was the New Hampshire Con- Himself to man. It contains the record of ing days they sat snuggled close together fession of Faith (1833). God’s revelation of Himself. Jesus Christ in the old jalopy during the drives. She alone is God’s revelation of Himself to man- asked her husband, why they no longer sat I have very strong feelings kind. close together. I cannot agree with the bad theology of The gentleman replied, “Well, my dear, about the Bible. I believe it is the “new and improved” wording of Ar- I ain’t moved a solitary inch. You’re the the divinely inspired, ticle 1 in the BF&M 2000. This marks the one who moved.” first time in Southern Baptist history that I feel much like the elderly man be- authoritative, infallible, the Bible alone has been declared to be cause the Southern Baptist Convention has written word of God. God’s revelation of Himself. moved away from me. Southern Baptists I have not moved from the belief that once believed the Bible was the record of This confession declared the Bible to be the Bible is the record of God’s revelation God’s revelation of Himself to man. South- “a perfect treasure of heavenly instruction of Himself to mankind. I do not plan to ern Baptists also once believed we inter- that has God for its author, salvation for its move in the near or distant future. My pret the Bible by Jesus Christ. end, and truth without mixture of error for grandfather used to say, “If it ain’t broke, Things have changed. Some Southern its matter.” The article on Scripture in the do not fix it.” The BF&M of 1963 was not Baptists have elevated the Bible to near 1925 BF&M is worded precisely the same broken and I do not plan artificially to fix it deity status by declaring that it is now God’s as the New Hampshire confession. by agreeing with Article 1 in the BF&M revelation of Himself rather than a record The 1963 BF&M says the Bible is “di- 2000. Therefore, I cannot recommend its of that revelation. vinely inspired and is the record of God’ s adoption to anyone or any church. I have not moved an inch from the view revelation of Himself to man.” None of that the Bible is the record of God’s revela- these confessions do with the Bible what David Flick is an associational Director tion. I am theologically the same as I was the 2000 BF&M does. of Missions in Oklahoma, Grady Baptist two years or even 20 years ago. Southern To say the Bible itself is God’s revela- Association of Oklahoma What’s Behind Baptist Press’ ‘Lack of Objectivity’?

Revitalize Christian Journalism,” Olasky abortion should be completely anti-abor- Editor’s note: Excerpts from an article by said biblical objectivity is a “commitment tion. When the Bible “is not clear” on is- Baptist Center for Ethics explaining “Baptist Press’ disregard for truthfulness and fairness.” BCE sug- to proclaiming God’s objective truth.” sues, such as NAFTA, biblical objectivity gests that BP’s slant may be taken from the jour- “The Christian journalistic goal… is true should reflect “the biblical view, as best nalistic approach of Marvin Olasky, editor of objectivity: presentation of the God’s-eye we can discern it through God’s Word,” he “World” magazine and professor of journalism at view,” Olasky wrote. said. the University of Texas. Olasky wrote, “A solidly Christian news publication should not be balanced.” “A solidly Christian news publication By Robert Parham, executive director of Olasky and others, who talk non-stop the Baptist Center for Ethics. should not be balanced.” –Marvin Olasky about objective truth, fail to understand how In 1994, the SBC’s Executive Commit- human sinfulness corrupts our perception. tee held a seminar for conservative South- At one point, Olasky wrote, “Biblical They underestimate the power of culture ern Baptist reporters, where Olasky taught objectivity means supporting the establish- and historical settings to shape how we read, his concept of Bible-based journalism. ment and improvement of Bible-based edu- interpret and apply biblical truth. Mark Coppenger, then a SBC vice-presi- cation, and criticizing government schools, Like many Christians, Olasky does not dent for public relations, organized the in the understanding that turning education acknowledge that his conservative seminar. Several years later, he had Olasky over to ‘professionals’ who have no regard worldview can disfigure his understanding deliver lectures at Midwestern Baptist Theo- for God is an abdication of biblical paren- of the Bible, just as a liberal worldview logical Seminary. tal responsibility.” can distort comprehension of the Bible. Olasky’s philosophy of journalism is “Christian reporters should give equal The lack of appreciation for the power based on his belief that the Bible is “the space to a variety of perspectives only when of sin leads to an arrogance that jettisons inerrant written Word of God” and that the Bible is unclear,” he said. fairness for the sake of ideology and per- Christians are under attack. For example, since the Bible is clear mits untruthfulness for the sake of a politi- Writing in “Telling the Truth: How to that abortion is wrong, news stories about cal agenda. — 18 — The Church: Being The Body cess to the Spirit of God in interpreting that Denies Radical Nature word. And as priests we have access to the of Gospel. service of God whatever form that service Rather than upholding the priesthood of may take. the believer, the revisors have fallen prey Within this context we join freely and to the very thing they so diligently argue Professor, voluntarily as a local body of believers in against, a perversion of the gospel prompted Truett Seminary, which there is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave by cultural influences, a backlash against Baylor University nor free, male nor female, but a congrega- cultural movements. The attempt to hold tion in which we are committed to His Lord- the line of biblical fidelity actually denies By Hulett Gloer ship and to one another NOT subservient the radical nature of the gospel which of- to bishop or presbytery or pastor nor any fers equal access to the call of God and earthly authority or creed. Revisions on the 2000 Baptist Faith and equal opportunity to the service of God. Celebrating equal access to the presence Let us never forget that in Christ we are Message are vitally important for Baptists and service of God, we are priests in the all a royal priesthood, priests in the service to consider. Frankly I am both deeply dis- service of the King. This is our New Testa- of the Kingdom. To limit access to the pas- turbed by these revisions and eagerly ex- ment birthright and this is our Baptist heri- toral role is to establish the equivalent of a cited about the opportunity they afford to tage in the church of Jesus Christ where spiritual elitism within the church by di- define clearly the nature of the church as the ground at the foot of the cross is level. viding clergy and laity. It denies the radi- traditionally understood by Baptists. cal nature of the gospel truth that the 1963 The New Testament contains many im- It opens the door for pastor- article so boldly states. ages of the church which help us to under- Church members are responsible equally stand who we are called to be. None has dominated, deacon- for its life. It is to say the ground at the foot been more precious to Baptists than the dominated, elder-ruled or of the cross is not level after all. It is, in the image of the church as a royal priesthood end, an announcement of another gospel or priests in the service of the King. This faction-dominated polity. that is no gospel at all! image stated specifically in 1 Peter 2:9 speaks to us of precious privilege and revo- The 1963 BF&M speaks clearly to this Denies local church history. lutionary responsibility. vision when it speaks of a Baptist church As if this were not enough, this declara- in which “members are equally responsible” tion denies the cherished Baptist principle The precious privilege. to its democratic process of governance, of local church autonomy. It robs local con- Only a select few had access to God in equally responsible under the Lordship of gregations of the freedom to be faithful in Old Testament Israel. The temple was di- Christ, equally responsible for salvation, determining for themselves who it is that vided into the sanctuary and the Holy of equally responsible for service and equally God has called and, therefore, who they Holies. Only priests could enter the sanctu- responsible for the life of the church. may call to serve the church. ary. Only a high priest could enter the Holy They omitted the statement about “equal of Holies and then only once a year. Both responsibility” in the 2000 BF&M and re- Only a select few had access to God and the service of God were placed it with one that says “Each member access to God in Old limited to an elite group among the people is responsible and accountable to Christ as and more specifically to one member of Lord.” No one would argue with this ex- Testament Israel. that group. cept that by the omission of the statement That’s the way it was, however, accord- about equal responsibility, the revised state- Let us remember, it is in the church we ing to the New Testament, when Jesus ment reduces the collective responsibility flesh out the gospel’s revolutionary nature of the congregation. mounted Calvary’s cross the Temple veil for all to see. So let us live in the reality of It removes the notion of equality in gov- what it means to be God’s royal priest- was rent from top to bottom. Access to the ernance and allows for different levels of hood. presence of God and the opportunity to His responsibility and authority. It opens the In the revision of this article then, they service was now open to all people. door for pastor-dominated, deacon-domi- have undermined both the New Testament In Jesus Christ all of God’s people have nated, elder-ruled or faction-dominated pol- and the Baptist visions of church in the become priests. This is the precious privi- ity. In so doing it strikes at the very heart name of biblical fidelity! I can almost hear lege of the priesthood of every believer, a of the gospel. Paul crying out “O foolish Galatians! Who privilege for which Baptists have lived and In spite of objections to the contrary, has bewitched you…?” died throughout the centuries. No earthly the article’s ending statement that only Let us stand firm and stand fast for the mediator is necessary. Indeed we can toler- males may occupy the office of a pastor radical Baptist vision. In the believers’ ate no earthly mediator whether that me- betrays the full intent of the omission of church “members are equally responsible” diator takes the form of a person or a piece the affirmation of equality. We can make for service. Churches are fully autonomous of paper. such a statement only if one is willing to and fully open to God’s leadership in their As priests we have access to the pres- deny the priesthood of every believer that choices of pastoral leadership positions. The ence of God. As priests we have access to demands equality in priestly access to God revised BF&M subtly and clearly rejects the Word of God. As priests we have ac- and priestly service of God. this. — 19 — In praise of Woman’s Missionary Union and Baptist women in ministry

The Lord had not given me a clear un- by women. derstanding of what missions was all about Second, although tithing is taught in at that young time in life. I just knew I God’s word, it was not a concept that was needed to be part of it. And with the direc- widely known or accepted until Woman’s tion and leadership of women who had dedi- Missionary Union educated Baptists about cated their time to mission’s organizations, the idea. I was a part of it! Third, until an organized group of No, God did not call me to serve in women began “weeks of prayer” and spe- India as he did Ann and Adoniram Judson, cial mission offerings, churches had no or- Sandra Magee or in China as he did Lottie Moon. He ganized method of praying and giving to Womack called me to serve him right here, as he has missions. so many women in ministry today. God Fourth, WMU has been the lifeline for Sandra Magee Womack is a member of needs a listening ear, an open heart and a Baptist missionaries for over 100 years. South Main Baptist Church in Pasadena. willing spirit to work with. He needs some- Still need a “scriptural” reference for one who is willing to take a risk and to your place in women’s ministry? What bet- Reprinted by permission from The answer as Isaiah did. “Here am I Lord; ter example of this than the woman who Baptist Standard send me.” wept at Jesus’ feet when they nailed Him I was literally born a Baptist, you might Time changes everything, so they say. to the cross, Mary Magdalene. Mary possi- say. My dear grandmother, who has since There has been a time of awakening in bly spent more time with Jesus than any passed on, joined a Baptist church in the other woman during His ministry. Jesus early 1940s, where she worked teaching We have been stepping forward used Mary as a willing disciple and role Sunday School, served faithfully in model for all women. Woman’s Missionary Union, and later went and risking the condemnation At a time when the followers of Jesus on to work in the church nursery for 39 of not only an unchurched and were scorned, ridiculed and even threat- years. lost people, but also of our ened by death, Mary remained faithful. She My mother was born a Baptist girl, as was with Him through the hours of cruci- well. I’ve been told that as she stood at the Baptist brothers in our own fixion and death, and she boldly returned kitchen window washing dishes at night, denomination. to be near Him in the garden. Even in the she practiced her hymns for choir with the midst of fear and grief, she risked her life hymnal propped up in the window seal. women in Baptist life as well. It has come and remained committed to Jesus. It’s no And I, too, was raised a Baptist girl, full circle. It is a time that women in minis- wonder that Mary was first to witness the which I still profess to be—an active, main- try today have to be willing to take risks, to resurrection and that Jesus issued his first stream Baptist, though there was a time speak our hearts and to take our place. We commission to a woman, “Go and tell.” that was left unsaid. Now, it is a must in must be willing to risk the journey that If we are to grow as Christian women in order to be heard, not like the time of my God sends us on—whether it be serving our understanding of God, we have to ex- grandmother. When she said, “Get up; Him abroad or in our own church commu- pect tough circumstances and be willing to we’re going to the Lord’s house,” she meant nity. Ladies, we have a vast mission field “risk” the disappointment that is bound to it. She gave the orders in that household. every time we step out of the door. confront us. Baptist women have met with And as you might have guessed, I’m rais- For over 100 years, Baptist women have confrontation since Baptists’ inception, and ing my two teenagers in a single-parent been “risk-takers.” We have been stepping that confrontation has made us strong and household and in the Baptist church. Main- forward and risking the condemnation of even more useful to Christ. stream that is to say. not only an unchurched and lost people, We live in turbulent and fractured times. But I have to tell you, of all that I’ve but also of our Baptist brothers in our own To stand in opposition to the majority al- learned about being Baptist and, more im- denomination. The Lord did not stop with ways involves risk. Baptist women must portantly, about being a Christian and how gender when it comes to confessing your not sit idle, but we must continue to be to be effective with what God has so freely faith. risk-takers. Women in ministry have given me, I’ve learned in the mission’s or- Women in ministry don’t take no for an discipled, educated and trained both men ganizations and from “women in ministry” answer. We are a group that must say, and women to “go and tell.” of the traditional Baptist church. “Look at our history, the foundation we Women in ministry, from teaching to I remember vividly the Holy Spirit mov- have laid, and look to our future women in preaching, is a campaign. It is a campaign ing me as a young girl one night during educating them.” of eternal significance, not a campaign for vesper services at a GA summer camp. I Still not convinced it’s not only your women’s rights. Women in Baptist work felt God was calling me to missions. Of right, but your place? Let the following be today are leaders and already know their course, I thought at the time that meant your basis for taking your place in minis- rights. They are knowledgeable, understand- serving in some remote part of Africa with try: ing, educated, well-groomed and fun to be native tribes, living in a tent, and eating First, the first money given to the first with. They also are accountable to Jesus berries in the wild. nationwide Baptist convention was given Christ and His guidance, not one of any — 20 — NO ONE WAS DENIED Powerful novel about claims of Jesus Christ THE RIGHT TO SPEAK to be released AT THE BGCT Though Dennis Harris’ first novel — Liar, Lunatic or Lord — is a chilling tale that could have been ripped from today’s headlines, it defies a By David R. Currie, Coordinator genre classification. It has been interesting to read the statements The Fredericksburg, Texas, businessman/evangelist uses a blending of by several fundamentalists that they were inten- the New Testament Gospels in conjunction with a contemporary story that tionally not recognized by BGCT President is insightful and suspenseful, weaving within a context of both reality and Clyde Glazener to speak during the discussion doubt the perception each of the novel’s characters have about religion and on the Seminary Study Committee report at the Jesus Christ. annual meeting of the BGCT in Corpus Christi. Georgia Risenhoover, the company’s CEO/publisher, said that in Harris’ This is untrue. novel a widow discovers a series of letters written to her late husband that Prior to the committee report, several other include a blending of the New Testament Gospels and shares them with a people including Phil Lineberger and Russell friend, who begins sharing them with Dilday were at microphones ready to speak in others. favor of the report. Dr. Lineberger stood at “The ripple impact on all the charac- microphone one and Dr. Dilday stood at mi- ters in the book is fantastic,” Risenhoover crophone four. Like a number of others, nei- said. “The letters become miraculously ther was recognized and neither ever got to intrusive, affecting a number of people speak. It really upset me because I think they in a pseudo-sophisticated metropolitan are two of our most effective spokesmen. Were area, one of whom is a tormented, drug- they intentionally ignored by BGCT president addicted young man who has planned Clyde Glazener? the murders of his entire family.” No. They were victims of the “fairness” Risenhoover said Harris, a Baptist, system used by the BGCT, just like the pastor has combined strong characterization of First Baptist, Dallas, Southwestern Baptist with an equally strong plot. Theological Seminary president Ken Hemphill “When you read the book, you’ll and others who wanted to speak in opposition probably recognize someone with an at- to the report. titude or the traits of one or more of the The “fairness” system, used by the BGCT, charmers,” she said. “Dennis has taken works like this. Others were recognized to speak both socially prominent and blue-collar and time ran out. It is always disappointing to families and placed them in a story that lose the vote on a critical issue. I lost them for happens all too often. And through his years at SBC meetings. characters he provides seldom-discussed The BGCT uses a very fair system. The insight into the often-twisted perceptions person presiding does not pick who is recog- many people have about religion, nized nor can he or she see who is at the micro- churches and ministers.” phones due to the bright lights. The parliamen- The publisher said Liar, Lunatic or Lord is an “emotional read,” running tarian tells the person presiding whom to recog- the gamut from laughter to tears. nize based on who pushed the button first and “This is a unique, highly unusual novel,” Risenhoover said, “but people whether or not they need a pro or con response. who know Dennis Harris would expect nothing less. He’s a unique indi- Glazener did tell some of the fundamentalist vidual who has spent a lifetime proving others wrong about his ability to do who are upset about not being recognized to let the seemingly impossible.” him know which microphone they would be at Harris, who is in the oil and gas business, is also an entrepreneur, a and he would see that they were recognized but rancher who raises cattle and horses, the author of 14 children’s books, the none gave this information to Glazener (as founder of Lifeline World Mission, a seminar speaker on the subject of Charles Wade had done in Orlando and was God’s grace and an evangelist. His ministry is worldwide, with specific recognized by Paige Patterson). missions to the Gaza Strip, Romania and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. Though Harris is combating life-threatening cancer, the publisher said she Continued from page 20… expects to publish another of his novels in 2001 — this one built around the “man-made creed.” subject of grace. Let no man tell a woman what to be- “Over the next few years you’re going to hear a lot about Dennis Harris, lieve or not believe, when to speak or not the author,” she said. “His cancer is in remission, and he’s a battler. And he speak. That is a right that remains only has a lot of important things to say through both fiction and nonfiction with Jesus Christ. It is to Him we pledge books.” our allegiance. It is to Him we shall be Additional information about Harris can be obtained by e-mailing him at accountable. It is with Him that we shall [email protected], or going to the Lifeline World Mission web site, at serve, and it is Him that we shall reign www.lifelineworldmission.org. with in eternity. — 21 — Why l Support Changes in Giving by the BGCT No reconciliation, By Stephen Vernon, pastor, know many, if any Baptists who don’t be- No compromise FBC Levelland lieve those things. Yet there has been a Today in the mail I received 25 copies systematic exclusion of most in Texas be- “I’m kind of intrigued that of a mailing from the Southern Baptist Con- cause they were on the wrong side. They now they [some BGCT vention Executive Committee entitled “The didn’t vote the right way. leaders] want to call for Truth about the SBC and Texas.” Some of Several years ago a friend of mine was mediation and these were addressed to staff members who called about serving on a committee at the had not been at the church in 20 years. SBC level. The caller said he had one ques- reconciliation. They do need Others were addressed to people who tion to ask to see if the appointment might to understand up front that were not even members of the church. A be completed. The question was not about there are certain non- call to the Executive Committee offices as- the Bible or about faith. The question was, negotiables, and I can tell sured me that this publication was done “How have you voted in the last five presi- you that the Baptist Faith with Cooperative Program dollars as an of- dential elections at the SBC.” He had evi- and Message as it stands is ficial publication. I don’t know about you, dently voted the wrong way because he a non-negotiable.” but if this is the way my Cooperative Pro- was never appointed. gram dollars are being spent, then it is ob- SBC president James Merritt, vious that some agencies in the SBC can- Christianity Today interview not be trusted with the funds we send. We We must be more must be more intentional in our giving. intentional in our giving. In his cover letter with “The Truth about TBC in major the SBC & Texas,” Morris Chapman asks Texas Baptists to “Challenge your South- As one who has observed the conven- ern Baptist family in Texas to vigorously tion battles from the outset, starting with fundraising effort promote traditional support for the SBC the voting irregularities which I personally by Ed Hogan, TBC treasurer Cooperative Program. I was amazed by this observed at the Houston convention in Each of you receiving this newsletter challenge. This comes from a group who’s 1979, it seems to me that the current SBC should also have received a direct mail plea churches have traditionally not supported leadership had been caught in the web of to give support the last week in December. the Cooperative Program. With only a few their own deceit. They need money from We hope you will respond. If you do give, exceptions, Presidents of the SBC have Texas Baptists. Yet through their lies, their you will receive thanks. If you do not, to pastored churches which have given only exclusionary policies and their arrogance, be honest, we will keep asking. We are token amounts to the Cooperative Program. they have closed the door of relations with trying to raise funds this year. Yet those of us in Texas who have given so the Baptist General Convention of Texas. The reason is simple. This is important much to the Cooperative Program without I am sorry things have come to this in work. How important? How would you feel representation on the national level are told Texas. I am sorry I can no longer encour- right now if SBC-type fundamentalists con- to continue vigorous support. age my church to give with a confidence in trolled the BGCT? How would you feel if Recently in the Baptist Standard, Mor- the SBC and the Cooperative Program that they had fired the president of the Baptist ris Chapman listed eight beliefs that deter- at one time served so well. The Coopera- university you attended along with the reli- mined if a man had the faith of the fathers. tive Program was built upon trust and now gion faculty? How would you feel if Jerry I have been a Baptist all my life. I don’t that trust is no longer valid. Falwell had preached the BGCT annual ser- mon this year in Corpus Christi or another Resources Available ¥ Joel Gregory and Herbert year? Reynolds in Houston, Without TBC, these things could have From TBC audio tape, $3 happened. Much is still to be done. We continually hear of churches torn apart by Texas Baptists Committed has a ¥ Richard Jackson in Brownwood, fundamentalism. We have much education number of resources available through video tape, $10 left to do. Our newsletter reaches less than our office for educational purposes. ¥ Phil Lineberger at TBC 1 percent of Texas Baptists. We need to be “Focus on Jesus” rallies were held Breakfast, audio tape, $3 mailing 500,000 copies instead of 20,000. across the state prior to the October We need to get books and resources into meeting of the Baptist General Con- ¥ David Currie in Georgia, the hands of as many Texas Baptists as vention of Texas in Corpus Christi. video tape, $10 possible. Our influence needs to grow. This As a result we have audio and video ¥ The Fundamentalist Takeover in can happen only as we more widely spread tapes. We also have some books avail- the SBC, book by Rob James and our message. That can only happen when able which have helped many to gain Gary Leazer, $3 we have the funds to share our message. significant insights into the history of ¥ The Battle for Baptist Integrity, Is a free BGCT worth $35 a year to the controversy among Southern book by John Baugh, $6 you? I would hope so. Please give to sup- Baptists. port Texas Baptists Committed. — 22 — God So Loved the World: Traditional Baptists and Calvinism

by Fisher Humphreys and Paul E. Robertson

As Baptists near the four hundredth anniversary of their founding, they find themselves once again face-to-face with questions that claimed the attention of their spiritual ancestors. Calvinistic Baptists argue that God exercises sovereignty over the universe by decreeing in advance everything that will happen, including the fall of human beings into sin and the damnation of some of them. They also claim that their views are biblical and are the true Baptist heritage.

In this readable and helpful book, the authors address the claims of Calvinism. Taking their stand on John 3:16, they argue that the traditional Baptist view is that God loves all people and desires the welfare of all. They say that the fall of human beings into sin and the judgment that follows are things that have been chosen by human beings rather than decreed by God.

Some of the chapters include: Understanding Calvinism Calvinism in Baptist History Scripture: Common Ground Scripture: A Traditional Baptist Reading Traditional Baptist Theology

About the Authors: Fisher Humphreys is Professor of Divinity at the Beeson Divinity School of ,Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama Paul E. Robertson is Professor of Theology and Director of Research Doctoral Programs at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

Publisher: Insight Press, P.O. Box 8369, New Orleans, LA 70182 Ph. 504.727.1638; Fax: 504.727.3532. Retail Price: $12.00

$25,000 Gift Honors Ken Chafin TEXAS BAPTISTS COMMITTED In December, Robert and Anne Foster, of Houston, gave Texas Baptists Committed a P.O. BOX 3330, SAN ANGELO, TX 76902 $25,000 donation in honor of former South Main Baptist Church pastor, Kenneth Chafin and 915-659-4102 • FAX 915-655-3603 his wife, Barbara. The gift comes from the Robert K. and Anne H. Foster Baptist Causes Fund www.txbc.org DR. HERBERT H. REYNOLDS administrated by the Texas Baptist Foundation. The Fosters are members of South Main Chair Baptist Church, Houston. We are pleased we got to share this news with Dr. Chafin prior to DR. RON COOK his death on January 3, 2001. Vice-Chair DR. DAVID R. CURRIE, COORDINATOR The gift is to be used by Texas Baptists Committed “in its worthy mission of encouraging, and Newsletter Editor aiding and promoting TBC-like organizations, as well as moderate churches and individual COLLEEN TAYLOR-MARTIN Baptists, in states other than Texas.” Specifically Mr. and Mrs. Foster want a portion of the COPY EDITOR gift to be used to “promote the growing relationship between moderate Texas Baptists and TEXAS BAPTISTS COMMITTED their counterparts in the state of Georgia.” EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Mr. and Mrs. Foster were reluctant to have their gift publicized but agreed to do so in Texas Baptists Committed is in the process of hopes that the knowledge of their gift might encourage others to make similar gifts. reorganization. Our board of directors will be We are very grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Foster for this generous and most needed donation. announced in our next issue. We are especially pleased to receive a gift honoring a Baptist “legend” like Ken Chafin, who set an example of integrity and courage for us all to follow. We will miss him deeply.

■ $1000 Patron Membership YES! I want to join ■ $300 Supporting Membership Texas Baptists Committed! ■ $100 Contributing Membership ■ $35 Regular Membership Name ______■ Lay Person ■ Church/Denominational Worker Address ______City/State/Zip ______Home Phone ( ______)______Work Phone ( ______) ______Church ______Association ______Mail Form and Check to: Texas Baptists Committed, P.O. Box 3330, San Angelo, Texas 76902-3330 — 23 — THANK YOU TEXAS BAPTISTS

Thank you Dr. Clyde Glazener for your ity in sharing with them and with everyone outstanding leadership during the proceed- else.” ings. Thank you Texas Baptists, especially A new sense of excitement and antici- those who represented Texas Hispanic Bap- pation flows among our students, faculty, tist churches/missions for your extra effort staff and trustees. HBTS received Candi- President of to attend and participate in this convention. date Membership with the Accrediting As- the Hispanic Baptist School Thank you all for your boldness, courage, sociation of Bible Colleges on August 29, in San Antonio, and excellent leadership. 2000. We have needed academic expertise Texas You voted for the future of Texas and and financial resources for accreditation and beyond! You voted to steward your re- certification as a Bible college. We have Albert L. Reyes sources in a way that will affect Hispanic the expertise but not sufficient financial re- Baptist Theological Seminary’s ability to sources. provide theological education that is con- In light of God’s redemptive activity in Thank you Texas Baptists! Thank you textually appropriate for Texas. history, the timing of this decision could for overwhelmingly approving the Baptist You voted to supply the needs of emerg- not be better. The decision to redirect funds General Convention of Texas Seminary ing leaders whom they will equip to meet for theological education ushers in a new Study Committee’s recommendations and the challenges of an increasingly cross-cul- era in Texas Baptist history. Adopting the the 2001 Proposed Budget at the annual tural context. They will use funds to pro- Texas Priority Giving Option through the meeting. vide scholarships, assistance in the accredi- Cooperative Program in your church bud- Thank you Dr. Rudy Sanchez and Pas- tation and certification process and educa- get for 2001 will secure funds for HBTS. tor Mateo Rendon for your excellent lead- tional resources HBTS needs. Pastors, church leaders and budget/fi- ership through the Executive Board and Ad- In I Corinthians 9:12-13, the Apostle nance committee members will aid in en- ministrative Committee. Thank you Dr. Bob Paul says: “This service that you perform couraging churches and missions to adopt Campbell and the BGCT Seminary Study is not only supplying the needs of God’s a budget that reflects the Texas Priority Committee members for your diligent and people but is also overflowing in many ex- Giving Option. We need all Texas Baptist exhaustive effort. pressions of thanks to God. Because of the churches, including Hispanic churches and Thank you Dr. Wade for your outstand- service by which you have proved your- missions, to make this choice. We need ing leadership, passionate message and selves, men will praise God for the obedi- support from every church and mission. No compelling challenge to the Convention ence that accompanies your confession of amount of giving is too small. Thanks be messengers! the gospel of Christ, and for your generos- to God for his indescribable gift! MISSION STATEMENT OF TEXAS BAPTISTS COMMITTED Texas Baptists Committed is dedicated to reach people for Christ through local churches, to uphold historic Baptist principles, and to cooperate with the mission of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and its related institutions.

The TBC Newsletter is a periodical published and mailed six times a year to churches in Texas and to all Baptists Committed members and supporters. You may be on several lists. If you get two newsletters, please pass one along to a friend. Send Address changes to: P.O. Box 3330, San Angelo, Texas 76902-3330.

Texas Baptists Committed Non-Profit Organization P.O. Box 3330 U.S. POSTAGE PAID San Angelo, Texas 76902-3330 Dallas, TX 915-659-4102 75212 Permit No. 2409 Change Service Requested

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