Contains SEPTEMBER Nurturing Faith Lessons GENEROSITY MULTIPLIED 39

AUGUST 2012 baptiststoday.org

House today, temple tomorrow BAPTISTS IN CUBA GROWING AMID UNIQUE CHALLENGES | 4

McDade joins staff of Baptists Today | 12

™ BIBLE STUDIES Kentucky volunteers build for adults and youth 17 house in ten days | 42 SEPTEMBER lessons inside August 2012 Vol. 30, No. 8 11 baptiststoday.org DO BAPTISTS HAVE John D. Pierce Executive Editor A CORE IDENTITY? [email protected]

Julie Steele Chief Operations Officer [email protected]

Jackie B. Riley Managing Editor [email protected]

Tony W. Cartledge Contributing Editor [email protected]

Bruce T. Gourley Online Editor [email protected]

David Cassady Church Resources Editor PERSPECTIVE [email protected] Getting more comfortable Terri Byrd with an uncertain future Contributing Writer 7 13 John Pierce Vickie Frayne Art Director Describing a healthy pastor search process 14 Jannie Lister Bill Wilson Customer Service Manager [email protected] When the church is the church’s Kimberly L. Hovis greatest threat 15 Marketing Associate [email protected] Guy Sayles

Walker Knight, Publisher Emeritus Communication involves shared Jack U. Harwell, Editor Emeritus understanding of a group 38 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mark Borchert Georgia pastor challenges “inerrancy” Walter B. Shurden, Macon, Ga. (chairman) claims that drive fundamentalism. Robert Cates, Rome, Ga. (vice chair) IN THE NEWS Jimmy R. Allen, Big Canoe, Ga. Nannette Avery, Signal Mountain, Tenn. Southern Baptists elect Luter Kelly L. Belcher, Spartanburg, S.C. as first black president 8 Cover photo: By Tony W. Cartledge. Thomas E. Boland, Alpharetta, Ga. Donald L. Brewer, Gainesville, Ga. Baptists in Cuba are growing churches CBF approves new plan, Huey Bridgman, The Villages, Fla. despite economic challenges. 4 Mary Jane Cardwell, Waycross, Ga. seeks new coordinator 9 Jack Causey, Statesville, N.C. Anthony D. Clevenger, Pensacola, Fla. U.S. Baptists support Kenny Crump, Ruston, La. James M. Dunn, Winston-Salem, N.C. new Zimbabwe seminary 10 Gary F. Eubanks, Marietta, Ga. Quotation Remarks 6 R. Kirby Godsey, Macon, Ga. BWA aims to increase participation 31 Ben Gross, Chattanooga, Tenn. Editorial 7 Leslie D. Hill, Lexington, Ky. Fisher Humphreys, Birmingham, Ala. Tax exemption for religious groups Classifieds 32 Michael M. Massar, Baton Rouge, La. faces challenge 35 William T. Neal, Stone Mountain, Ga. In the Know 32 Roger Paynter, Austin, Texas Michael G. Queen, Wilmington, N.C. Evangelical group proposes code of Lighter Side 33 Kathy B. Richardson, Rome, Ga. ethics for pastors 37 Lee Royal, Greensboro, N.C. Baptists and the Civil War 36 Mary Etta Sanders, Dalton, Ga. Charles Schaible, Macon, Ga. FEATURES Reblog 43 Macon Sheppard, Folly Beach, S.C. Charlotte Cook Smith, Winston-Salem, N.C. Pastoral Perspectives with David M. Smith, Houston, Texas Mitchell Simpson 34 Leo Thorne, Valley Forge, Pa. Cathy Turner, Clemson, S.C. An autonomous, national David Turner, Richmond, Va. Beyond Sundays 40 news journal since 1983 Tom Waller, Alpharetta, Ga. Terri Byrd Winnie V. Williams, Seneca, S.C. Cynthia Wise, Birmingham, Ala. 2 | Feature READERS SERVICES

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Information | 3 !"#$% &'( )*#"#! +% "#'% ,&$"-.(/., Contributing Editor House today, temple tomorrow Baptists in Cuba find sure footing for growth amid challenges

ANTIAGO DE CUBA — Make a mental list of places where Baptist work is growing, and chances are it wouldn’t include Cuba — but it should. S The Eastern Baptist Convention of Cuba (EBCC) has seen remarkable growth during the past decade. After more than a century of tepid growth that was almost completely stymied during the first two decades of Fidel Castro’s Socialist revolution, Baptists have found a sure footing for growth. Joel Luis Dupont, executive president of the EBCC, told a group of volunteers from North Carolina that Baptists in Cuba have always had “a strong missionary concern and a heart for social work.” Speaking from his office in Santiago, on Cuba’s southeastern coast, Dupont said that in the century or so after its beginning in 1898, the EBCC developed about 200 churches. But in the past 10-15 years, he said, “there has been a great evangelistic movement that has resulted in 300 more churches, 800 house churches or missions, and thousands of cell groups called ‘houses of prayer.’”

HOUSE CHURCHES As used in Cuba, the term “house church” denotes far more than a dozen people meeting occasionally in some- one’s living room, as is often the case in the U.S. In the Cuban context, “house church” describes a congregation that meets regularly in a building that’s also used as a home, often for the pastor’s family. It is easier to get gov- ernment permission to use a building for church purposes if a family also lives there. House churches can be sizeable. At Tenth Baptist Church in Santiago, for example, pastor Rolando Ortiz Donkeys, horses and carts are common forms of transportation in Cuba, where few people own cars. Below: Pastor Alexi Garcia speaks with leaders of Maranatha Baptist Bodie’s family lives in a tiny three-room apartment Church in front of a small house they hope to renovate and expand for use as a house behind a rickety sanctuary space that can pack in 120 to church. 150 people.

4 | Feature The congregation has 130 members and supports multiple missions, but is still called a “house church.” Self-standing church buildings are called “temples.” Cuba was very closed to the gospel for many years, Dupont said, “but God has opened many doors through miracles.”

SEEING MIRACLES Government approval for a senior center designed to house retired pastors and spouses is one miracle, said Dupont. Volunteers affiliated with North Carolina Baptist Men have been assisting Cuban Baptists in the construction of the sizeable cen- Baptists from the Cuban villages of El Caoba and El Cobre sing with typical exuberance during a joint ter for nearly 10 years. The main building was service held in the Eastern Baptist Convention of Cuba seminary gymnasium. recently dedicated, but it lacks needed equip- ment such as hospital beds and commercial people spill out among the flowers in the yard. able to complete it. washing machines because the United States’ The church recently baptized 19 new In the rural community of El Esparillo, long-running trade embargo has made such converts, none of whom have Bibles. The con- Christ the Rock Baptist Church also meets in goods difficult to find in Cuba. gregation has purchased a ramshackle home on an open shelter constructed less than a yard The number of Cubans converting to a plot of ground nearby, which members hope from the pastor’s home. The church first met Christianity in the past decade is another mir- to renovate and expand to serve as a house in the shade of a large tree, but built the shelter acle, Dupont said. And, current president Raul church. after a hurricane uprooted the tree. Castro has publicly asked Christians to pray Garcia meets separately each month with The shelter has rudimentary benches fac- for him and for the government, Dupont said, cell group leaders, outlines an emphasis for the ing a speaker’s stand on which Cristo la Roca a miracle in itself. month, and leads them in a related Bible study. (“Christ, the Rock”) is carved. In the back is “We believe, like Esther, that God has Group leaders then replicate the study in their an outdoor kitchen and fellowship area used prepared us for this time,” Dupont said, as he homes so the monthly emphasis (family, evan- for Sunday school, along with a primitive bath- appealed for additional funds and promised a gelism, or support for the senior center, for room for the 50-75 people who attend. continued emphasis in planting new churches. example) spreads through the church. A woman who works with the church as Noting that the Cuban government just While many cell groups remain small, an evangelist — but does not own a Bible — recently began allowing Cubans to sell prop- others grow and take on a life of their own. said remnants of witchcraft from Cuba’s early erty, he said: “We need to buy houses so we Working with the convention, the congrega- West African slave population continue to be can start house churches in them; to have a tion then appoints a missionary pastor to lead a strong force in the community, as does alco- temple tomorrow, we need a house today.” the house of prayer to become a house church holism fed by homemade liquor distilled from Many houses can be bought for $6,000- that can function on its own. fermented molasses. $12,000 U.S., but poverty, inflation and the Much prayer goes into the ministry, she low value of the Cuban peso make it very diffi- OVERCOMING OBSTACLES said: both prayer and weeping for those who cult for the churches to raise the needed funds. To be constituted as an independent church, come, but then fall away. Garcia said, congregations must have a Women are free to preach in the EBCC, PLANTING, GROWING minimum number of members, at least two and several churches have women pastors. Baptists in Cuba have a straightforward “departments” (such as a men’s and women’s There’s no question that women are the back- strategy for planting and growing churches. organization), and the ability to pay at least bone of the church in Cuba. Existing churches encourage the development half of the pastor’s salary. Though most of the pastors are men, of “houses of prayer” throughout the commu- Pastors generally make 350-400 Cuban most of the members are women, and children nity and in surrounding communities. pesos per month, about 20 U.S dollars. The abound. “Men often feel too much machismo Typically, participants in the “houses of EBCC provides limited financial assistance for to want to come to church,” one pastor’s wife prayer” outnumber members in the church. new church starts, decreasing funding as the said, but women are much more open to the At Maranatha Baptist Church in Sevilla, for church grows. gospel. Then, in time, they try to draw in the example, pastor Alexi Garcia took visitors to With finances tight, the churches struggle. men in their families. a large open garage currently used as a meet- The Hope of Life Baptist Church, near Oasis, Obstacles abound, but Baptist churches ing place. The garage, attached to the home currently meets beneath a small outdoor shel- in eastern Cuba are alive and well and growing. of church members who don’t own a car, can ter adjacent to the home of a woman who From “houses of prayer” to house churches to accommodate the 80 members who normally began by hosting a house of prayer. Members the occasional freestanding “temple,” they believe attend. When the church’s 17 cell groups gather have laid the foundation for a church building God has given them a special opportunity in a for a monthly meeting, however, more than 140 at a nearby location, but are far from being special time, and are striving to see it through. BT

Feature | 5 quotation remarks

“Hate will blind you to so many things; …It consumes you.” “Partisan Christianity cannot effectively change our culture … If —Chris Simpson, a 38-year-old garbage man and American Christians continue to see the culture wars as the primary former Marine who gave up white supremacy for way of shaping culture, they should expect to see their numbers decline Christianity and is having his many Nazi and white pride tattoos removed (RNS) and their influence wane. But if they wake up to our current reality and return to the foundations of their faith — love, compassion, and a “Many Southern Baptists were on the rigorous commitment to the ‘Gospel’ story that drives them to faith in wrong side of the hoses in Birmingham. And I think that brings with it a memory the first place — the faith’s best days may yet lie ahead.” that lasts a long time. I think Southern —Author Jonathan Merritt, a graduate of Liberty University and son of former Baptists have the opportunity and the Southern Baptist Convention president James Merritt (The Atlantic) necessity to go further and be more intentional than anyone and everyone else.”

—Ed Stetzer, president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Lifeway Research, on the election of Fred Luter as the first African American to serve as “There was a sense that we are not “Anything to put the Bible in people’s president of the SBC (Fox News) just a fellowship, but are cooperative hands is a good thing.” Baptists.” —Gideons spokesman Ken Stephens, responding to “This kind of behavior is not isolated to —George Mason, chair of the search committee plans by the InterContinental Hotels Group to replace children and school buses and suburban seeking a new executive coordinator for the printed Bible with electronic versions loaded on communities. It stretches to the upper Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, on the input received Kindle e-readers (kypost.com) reaches of society — our politics and from hundreds of participants our pulpits and our public squares.” “Christians have perpetrated the myth “…[G]ender-inclusive language is that the man or woman of God who —New York Times columnist Charles Blow on a group of boys tormenting a grandmotherly bus foundational to the entire question of has been called to ministry doesn’t monitor in upstate New York ‘women’s place’ in church and society. have the same struggles, stresses and Language shapes thought; thought temptations that the person in the pew “Let’s celebrate religious pluralism; precedes action.” experiences. Those of us who have been after all, we [Baptists] helped invent it.” in ministry any length of time know —Naomi K. Walker, music and worship pastor how wrong that is!” —Church historian Bill Leonard of Wake Forest at Immanuel Baptist Church in Frankfort, Ky. University, speaking to a Baptist Joint Committee (ethicsdaily.com) —Ircel Harrison, coaching coordinator for Pinnacle for Religion Liberty gathering in June, on Roger Leadership Associates and adjunct professor for Williams creating Rhode Island as a shelter for people “It would have been terrible if we elect Central Baptist Theological Seminary, encouraging of conscience Fred [Luter] with enthusiasm and then ministers to seek pastoral counseling (ABP) reject one of the biggest needs that “We have never considered ourselves in African Americans expressed to us. It “Andy was a person of incredibly strong any way unfaithful to the church, but if would have been inconsistent.” Christian faith and was prepared for questioning is interpreted as defiance, the day he would be called home to his —Jimmy Draper, retired president of the SBC’s that puts us in a very difficult position.” Lord.” LifeWay Christian Resources and chairman of a task —Sister Pat Farrell, head of the Leadership force whose recommendation that Southern Baptist —Cindi Griffith, in a statement issued through Conference of Women Religious, speaking to the churches be able to use the alternative identification the Andy Griffith Museum in Mount Airy, N.C., National Catholic Reporter about strained relations of “Great Commission Baptists” received just 53 following the July 3 death of her husband at after the Vatican criticized American nuns (RNS) percent approval (RNS) age 86 (CNN)

6 | Perspective Editorial By John Pierce Getting more comfortable with an uncertain future

In growing numbers, Baptists seem and greater cultural shifts that deserve the full discerning congregational direction or reorga- attention of churches and denominational nizing a denominational approach to ministry, to be getting more comfortable groups. the best starting place is a confession that we Panic is never the right response to ongo- don’t know what the future will look like. This with an uncertain denominational ing change and uncertainty. But that can is especially true for Baptist congregations and future. That is good. happen when old ways of doing things don’t other groups where affiliation and cooperation work anymore and once robust organizations are voluntary. uch a perspective allows for doing cre- struggle as their resources dwindle. We don’t know what the future holds ative ministry “in the now” — without The most constructive response, however, — and that is OK. We will face the current San illusion that the latest shift will be appears to be a growing affirmation of the context with faith, hope and love — and with the current shift in the future. And denomina- state of uncertainty — open eyes to whatever might change before us. tional life, in response or resistance to cultural a willingness to be nimble For me to call anyone or any organization changes, is continually shifting. That is neither enough to adjust to ongo- to patience is the height of hypocrisy. Patience startling news nor a fact that can be easily ing change. has never been my strongest virtue. However, denied. In my earlier work it is important during times of shifts and Those made nervous by shifting sands as a campus minister, I uncertainty. or an uncertain future will continue to be would often have new Like some other denominational groups, troubled. However, it is encouraging to see the students stumble into my the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship is going growing willingness of church leaders in con- office with great concern. through such a time of transition and reor- gregational and denominational life to accept They were uncertain ganization amid great cultural shifts. Unlike the challenge of ongoing adjustments. about which major to choose and what career some historic denominations — with their old We hear less about “long-range plans” to pursue. Often that pressure was coming structures — CBF is more nimble. But even now because more of us are admitting that no from parents or other external forces. 20 years worth of doing things a certain way one can see around enough corners. The result My response to them was always to relax requires more than simple tinkering. is not necessarily a fly-by-night but rather a fly- and engage in college life and dig into the core Trusting God with the future is easier said by-faith approach that seriously considers the curriculum as a way of refining their interests. than done. But I am pleased to see more faith current context for ministry without assuming I urged them to get practical experience in a and patience — and less panic — at play. that context will remain unchanged for any variety of jobs to determine what kind of work In individual congregations, the changing discernable time. might fit their gifts. landscape calls for revisiting established ways While such an approach can be frighten- Often I reminded those less-certain of doing church — with the heightened aware- ing, it can also be freeing. It removes the risk of students that changing majors is not a crime ness that the new social context of today may building fortified structures — figuratively and — and that hardly anyone retires from the well be an old context in just a few years. literally — that are quickly outdated and hard first career they begin anymore. Chill. Explore. We are learning — and must learn — to live to renovate or demolish. Learn. Then decide a clearer course with open- more comfortably with a mix of ongoing discern- In our communications role, Baptists ness to another. ment and action. Perhaps we can find comfort Today seeks to provide information about and Those with uncertainty about the future also in knowing that emerging church leaders will analyses of the changing landscape in which concerned me a lot less than the one who know no other way of being and doing church congregations and related organizations carry had every aspect of his or her life determined than within a sea of constant change. out their tasks. Such information, I often tell before reaching age 20. The landscape is too Both sincere prayers and good plans allow church leaders, is necessary to discern between prone to shift, and the future is too uncertain. us to move ahead while realizing that the desti- a fad that is here today and gone tomorrow Whether seeking a vocational course or nation may change before we get there. BT

We don’t know what the future holds — and that is OK. We will face the current context with faith, hope and love — and with open eyes to whatever might change before us.

Perspective | 7 +% &(.--. 3. +&'4!, Religion News Service

In a close vote, members of the Southern Baptist Convention have voted to accept the alternate unofficial name of “Great Commission Baptists.’’ The debate immediately followed the election of Fred Luter as the denomination’s first African-American president. RNS photo courtesy Baptist Press

‘Historic Moment’ Southern Baptists elect Fred Luter as first black president

EW ORLEANS — Pointing heav- “Let’s give our ballots a voice and shout out to plagiarism and the racial tension his remarks enward and wiping away tears, Fred the world: Jesus is Lord! This is our president! caused, was among those immediately cheer- NLuter was elected June 19 as the first We are Southern Baptists!” ing Luter’s election. black president of the predominantly white Crosby’s church, which sustained less “Today was as truly a historic moment Southern Baptist Convention. damage after Katrina, shared space with Luter’s as Southern Baptist life will ever experience,” “To God be the glory for the things that remaining congregants after the hurricane. said Land, who helped craft the denomina- he has done,” Luter said moments after more Members of black Southern Baptist tion’s 1995 statement apologizing for the than 7,000 Southern Baptists leapt to their churches — which make up about 8 percent “deplorable sin” of racism. “Praise God for his feet, cheered and shouted “Hallelujah” when of the SBC’s 45,000 congregations — hailed redeeming grace.” he was declared their next leader. the expected election. Some said they were Many said before his election that Luter Luter, 55, a former street preacher who shocked and never thought they’d live to see deserved to be elected not because he is black but brought his mostly black New Orleans con- such an occurrence. because of his commitment to the denomina- gregation back from near annihilation after Black Southern Baptists have attended tion, preaching skills and success in rebuilding Hurricane Katrina in 2005, will lead the the annual meetings in limited numbers and his church into one of the largest in Louisiana. nation’s largest Protestant denomination for at some have complained when they seldom saw A recent survey by the SBC’s LifeWay Research least a year. Most Southern Baptist presidents people who look like them speaking from the found that the majority of Southern Baptist pas- traditionally serve two one-year terms. convention platform. This year, more attended tors were ready for a black president. Southern Baptists leaders had urged the than usual and ushers came from Luter’s Luter closed out the annual pastors’ nomination and election of Luter for more Franklin Avenue Baptist Church. conference on the eve of the Southern Baptist than a year. Many said it was long time for In the months before the election, SBC meeting, and had the audience on its feet as he such a move for a denomination that was born ethicist Richard Land was embroiled in con- waved his Bible in a fervent sermon. in 1845 in a defense of slavery. troversy for saying President Obama and “Only the Word of God can change the “We have the opportunity to make his- civil rights leaders had exploited the case of heart of a racist; only the Word of God can tory, to show a watching world the truth about Trayvon Martin, the unarmed Florida teen change the desire of a child molester,” he our savior and ourselves,” David Crosby, pas- who was killed by a neighborhood watch preached. “The Word of God can change a tor of the mostly white First Baptist Church of volunteer. Land, who was reprimanded and lifestyle of a homosexual. The Word of God is New Orleans, said in his nomination of Luter. lost his radio talk show as a result of on-air the only hope for America today.” BT

8 | Information +% +#+ &--.', Associated Baptist Press Transition time: CBF approves plan, seeks new executive coordinator

FORT WORTH, Texas — The promoting and collecting the Global Missions Offering; participating in regional or national Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF) CBF ministries and attending their state or looks forward to an “in-between national General Assembly. That section of the report was amended year” characterized by implementa- during the General Assembly to clarify gram- tion of a new identity statement and a matically the intent is not to force the issue of CBF affiliation within churches where it might search for a successor to retiring CBF be divisive. Executive Coordinator Daniel Vestal, Hull said the task force heard from many churches requesting a way to highlight their the group’s incoming moderator said CBF identity above and beyond giving money. during the June General Assembly. “There is nothing required by this at all,” Hull said. “Some churches said, ‘Give us a way to n this coming year, we’ll lay down the identify with CBF apart from just sending money foundations for a new organizational to you.’ Many churches will choose not to do “Istructure and we’ll welcome a new leader this. That’s fine. This is for churches who want who will give direction to our shared calling, to say in a public sense, ‘This is who we are.’” who will partner with us and who will lead,” CBF Moderator Keith Herron The new plan also calls for more commu- said Keith Herron, pastor of Holmeswood nication in the process of developing budgets Baptist Church in Kansas City, Mo. “You have spoken; we have listened,” for state/regional and national CBF organiza- With final approval of a new model Hull, pastor of First Baptist Church of tions. Currently the budgets for various CBF for identity, governance and financial sup- Huntsville, Ala., said in a presentation dur- entities are developed separately, sometimes port intended to guide the moderate Baptist ing the opening business session of the 22nd with little or no communication between the group formed in 1991 for the next 20 years, annual CBF General Assembly. “Together we two. The new plan recommends that regional Herron, who assumed the gavel from outgoing have tried to imagine a future of life and vital- and national bodies negotiate cooperative moderator Colleen Burroughs, now turns to ity for Cooperative Baptists.” agreements about not only division of funds implementation of the plan. The new plan seeks to pull together a but also responsibilities for ministry resources. Herron said he and interim CBF coordi- myriad of national, state and regional CBF Connie McNeill, task force member and nator Pat Anderson will assemble a group of organizations into “a seamless cooperating coordinator of administration for the CBF strategic thinkers and leaders to sort through community,” while doing a better job of shar- Atlanta staff, said the plan affirms both the the report and “develop a playbook that out- ing resources that already exist and reducing national organization’s role in missionary and lines how we think we can best put this plan duplication of effort among CBF and partner resource work and the geographical proximity into action.” organizations. offered in the state and regional CBFs. Herron said he hopes to have a first “Our future lies in our ability to live into The plan will “create a process for national, draft of the implementation plan for the our name,” Hull said. “We are cooperative state and regional organizations to work Coordinating Council to consider when they Baptists.” together more closely, while respecting the meet in October and again in February before The plan also for the first time suggests a autonomy and uniqueness of each,” she said. presentation to next year’s General Assembly in way for churches desiring to identify publicly Ruth Perkins Lee, vice chair of the 2012 Greensboro, N.C. with CBF mission and values to do so beyond Task Force, said while much attention the last “There are several alignments we can financial contributions. few years has been on budget shortfalls at the begin to lean into this fall, while other steps “Congregations may embrace their national level, the listening sessions actually will take some time to put into practice,” identity by sending a letter that outlines the revealed an abundance of resources that aren’t Herron said. “This work won’t happen in a details of their partnership with CBF,” the being fully tapped. corner, and its implications are wide-ranging report recommends. Such a letter might list She called for “a paradigm shift that rec- and important.” or describe ways the congregation participates ognizes we are the best resources CBF has.” The new identity plan is the result of a in CBF, including but not limited to affirm- “We have done great things together, and two-year study that included more than 100 ing its identity, values and mission; praying we can do infinitely more,” said Lee, minister listening sessions conducted by a task force for CBF; including CBF ministries — state/ of students at Auburn First Baptist Church in chaired by David Hull. regional and/or national — in church budgets; Auburn, Ala. BT

Information | 9 +% +#+ &--.', Associated Baptist Press Baptists in U.S. provide support for new Zimbabwe seminary

Twenty-three years after launch- speaking engagements being arranged by the Baptist scholar Glenn Hinson donated his Lott Carey Missionary Convention, which lists entire library. “It is not easy even at age 80 to ing Baptist Theological Seminary the new Zimbabwe Theological Seminary as a part with things you have cherished much of at Richmond (BTSR), the Alliance global partner. your life,” Hinson, senior professor of church The Lott Carey convention, formed in history and spirituality at the Baptist Seminary of Baptists is now working with 1897 by black Baptists in the U.S. committed of Kentucky, said in the news release. to missionary work on the African continent, When the seminary requested Bibles, partners to birth the Zimbabwe was one of several funding sources tapped by students at BTSR and the library at Union Theological Seminary. Mugabe in the 1990s to make up for a reori- Theological Seminary in Richmond donated entation of Southern Baptist International more than 75. The committee quickly deter- wo U.S. Baptist groups that formerly Mission Board priorities that meant funds mined that fundraising was needed to help sponsored a Baptist seminary in would no longer be available for operating offset the cost of shipping: $3.50 per pound TZimbabwe have switched loyalty to a institutions such as the Baptist Theological and more than $13,000 to date. They recruited new school started since the 2011 firing of a Seminary of Zimbabwe. individuals, schools, Sunday school classes and principal who opposed changes in governing Another was the Alliance of Baptists, vacation Bible school programs in Maryland, documents that included required adherence to a 25-year-old organization of 135 churches Virginia, North Carolina and Kentucky to the Southern Baptist Convention’s 2000 Baptist formed by progressives seeking distance from adopt the cause as a mission project. Faith and Message. the “conservative resurgence” in the SBC in A former BTSR student donated her time to The Zimbabwe Theological Seminary the 1980s. One of the Alliance’s early actions design a new seminary logo. Colleagues at Lott in Gweru, Zimbabwe, opened classes last in 1989 was to launch BTSR to fill a void of Carey volunteered their webmaster to design, September and enrolls 50 students, said Philip “reverence for biblical authority and respect launch and maintain a new website, now up and Mudzidzi, an adjunct lecturer at the new semi- for open inquiry and responsible scholarship” running at www.zimsem.org. The Italian Baptist nary and former national youth and student created by the loss of Southeastern Baptist Union, another longtime partner of the Baptist director of the Zimbabwe Baptist Convention. Theological Seminary, an idea at the time Theological Seminary of Zimbabwe, also pledged In July 2011 the Zimbabwe Baptist widely viewed as ambitious or even audacious. support for the new school. Convention fired Baptist Theological Seminary Recently the Alliance sent out a press The website describes the Zimbabwe of Zimbabwe principal Henry Mugabe for release saying for similar reasons, the group Theological Seminary as committed to a “dis- refusing to abide by an amended school charter is “helping give birth” to the new Zimbabwe tinctively Baptist heritage with an ecumenical adopted by a new council formed to replace Theological Seminary. According to the release, commitment, a global perspective, and partici- the seminary’s board of trustees. a group of U.S. Baptists committed to the new pation in the worldwide Christian mission.” Changes reportedly related to the transfer seminary began teleconference meetings last Mudzidzi said about 10 denominations of school property from the SBC International summer to coordinate support efforts. are represented so far, including Anglicans, Mission Board to the Baptist Convention Chris Caldwell, pastor of Broadway Evangelical Lutherans, Methodists, Baptists of Zimbabwe, naming the president of the Baptist Church in Louisville, Ky., provided the and some of the African-initiated churches, Zimbabwe Baptist convention the seminary’s phone bridge and took early leadership in the also known as indigenous churches, indepen- official legal authority, and requiring all aca- conversations. Early meetings included staff dent denominations established by African demic staff “to subscribe to the 2000 Baptist members from the Alliance, the Lott Carey initiative rather than foreign missionaries. Faith and Message upheld by the Baptist Convention and BTSR. Mudzidzi said the new seminary is seek- Convention of Zimbabwe, IMB and the In addition to funding, the group focused ing accreditation through Great Zimbabwe Southern Baptist Convention.” on securing books for the new seminary’s library University in Masvingo. The Alliance of Mugabe, a Ph.D. graduate of Southern and helping to develop and launch a website. Baptists press release described successes so far Baptist Theological Seminary who has taught Beginning with a book list provided by as “a testimony to the power of collaboration adjunctively at U.S. seminaries affiliated with the seminary, team members e-mailed col- and cooperation.” the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, is appeal- leagues and friends across the country asking “No one group or organization could ing his termination in Zimbabwe and is not for assistance. Some donors gave books from have launched this groundbreaking new school officially connected to the new seminary. He their personal libraries; others purchased books alone,” the release stated. “As a global village, is visiting the United States this summer, with and donated them to the new school. however, we are making the dream a reality.” BT Some donors gave books from their personal libraries; others purchased books and donated them to the new school.

10 | Information !"#$% &'( )*#"# +% "#'% ,&$"-.(/., Contributing Editor Do Baptists have a core identity?

Philip Thompson, professor of systematic theology and Christian heritage at Sioux Falls Seminary, says theological disputes among Baptists are often cast in terms of violating Baptist principles or distorting Baptist history.

When the Baptist History & Heritage Thompson, professor of systematic theology people separated from the world by repentance and Christian heritage at Sioux Falls Seminary, and a confession of faith in Jesus.” Society met in Raleigh in June, argued for one distinction. This has been normative from the begin- the official topic was “Baptists and Noting that Baptists talk a lot about ning of the movement, he said. “principles,” Thompson said that the formula- Leonard pointed to several aspects of Theology.” Through three keynote tion of Baptist principles in the 19th century a believer’s church in the Baptist tradition, addresses and a variety of breakout displaced dogmatics from theology to history. including beliefs in the necessity of an unco- Baptist principles state the Baptist dogma, or erced faith, freedom of conscience, the right of sessions, both historians and theolo- what makes us identifiable, he said. dissent, and a separation of church and state. gians addressed the subject. When theological disputes occur among He added that Baptist congregations hold to a Baptists, Thompson said, they are often cast tension between biblical authority and liberty he meeting was held at both of Raleigh’s in terms of the violation of Baptist principles of conscience, congregational autonomy and First Baptist churches: the predomi- or a distortion of Baptist history. Whatever the associational fellowship. Tnantly Anglo Salisbury Street church issue, people holding opposing views are likely Baptists have been inevitably confessional and the predominantly African American to accuse each other of abandoning historic and selectively creedal, he said: “From the begin- Wilmington Street church. Baptist principles. ning, Baptists have constructed confessions of Historian Glenn Jonas, chair of the “Clearly, principles are bound up with his- faith but have differed in how to apply them.” religion department at Campbell University, tory,” Thompson said, “But lists of principles The Baptist identity continues to evolve, he highlighted some of the theological develop- are not enough to establish Baptist identity.” said, impacted by everything from demographics ments in the two churches, which began as Historian Bill Leonard, who holds the to technical developments to cultural change. One one, including issues of race relations and Dunn Chair of Baptist Studies at Wake Forest of the greatest challenges facing Baptists, Leonard leadership roles for women. Jonas recently University Divinity School, spoke of convic- said, is that we live in a time when one of the fast- published Nurturing the Vision: First Baptist tions and contradictions in Baptist life. He est growing identity groups is the “nones” (people Church, Raleigh 1812-2012. pointed to widely divergent theological views who express no religious identity). Theologian Fisher Humphries, retired held by both early and contemporary Baptists, As a result, Baptists must confront the professor of divinity at Samford’s Beeson with special emphasis given to the doctrine of reality that a growing number of people, Divinity School, reviewed significant theo- salvation, which Calvinist and non-Calvinist including younger Baptists, are increasingly logical works written by Baptists since 1950, Baptists understand quite differently. indifferent to theological or ecclesiastical highlighting a number of those from a list of Leonard asked, “What might be the center aspects of the debate over the Baptist identity. more than 250 titles. of Baptist theological and ecclesial identity?” In other words, the question is not only who Numerous other papers were presented As he has done before, Leonard said “I gains the upper hand in the debate over Baptist with theologians and historians agreeing that continue to insist that it rests in the concept identity, but also how many people — even there is no single Baptist theology. Philip of a believer’s church ... a company of faithful among Baptists — really care. BT

Information | 11 Ben McDade joins staff of Baptists Today

MACON, Ga. — Benjamin L. McDade relies on mutually beneficial partnerships with other organizations and the strong support Sr. is executive vice president of the of individuals who value the mission of the national news journal, Baptists Today, news journal. McDade will help expand those as of Aug. 1. He comes from the partnerships and solidify the support base as well as broaden awareness of the news journal, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF) books, curriculum and other resources being where he has worked in communications produced now and in the future. and advancement since 2002. McDade recalled how the news journal, that predates the creation of CBF, provided cDade will direct all development unrestricted coverage of Baptist life during a and marketing efforts and help give tumultuous shifting of the denominational Mstrategic direction to the expand- landscape during the era in which the ing organization. The news journal, which Fellowship was born. has grown in circulation since adding the autonomous, national news journal head- “While we all owe a debt of gratitude to Nurturing Faith Bible Studies in 2011, recently quartered in Macon, Ga., and guided by an those who were committed to keeping Baptists launched a subsidiary to publish books, addi- independent Board of Directors. McDade will informed with unvarnished news and infor- tional curriculum and other church resources work out of Atlanta, while other staff is spread mation during those days, it’s the continuing under the Nurturing Faith imprint. from Raleigh, N.C., to Bozeman, Mont. innovative vision, passion, enthusiasm and “With a background in journalism and “Ben brings the right gifts, experience commitment to excellence of Baptists Today’s advancement, and a knowledge of the Baptist and energy to Baptists Today at just the right staff and board leadership that call me to this people, Ben McDade is a natural to help time as we grow and expand our ministry,” next phase of ministry,” said McDade. “I am lead Baptists Today,” said Board Chairman said Executive Editor/President John Pierce. most pleased that my work will allow me to Walter B. Shurden, minister at large for Mercer “He will be a vital part of a dynamic team of continue serving within the greater Fellowship University. “Our Board of Directors is thrilled talented and committed people with whom I’m community as Baptists Today builds on its to have him on board.” privileged to work.” proud tradition — and to be a part of the new Founded in 1983, Baptists Today is a fully Because of its independence, Baptists Today publishing venture Nurturing Faith.” BT

in your own words

“While I cannot determine the specific number of responses we received due to the ad in Baptists Today, numerous respon- dents noted seeing the ad there. The response to our effort was overwhelming …. Response was so high that, at one point, our church website crashed due to heavy traffic. “We received résumés from applicants that matched well with our advertisement. I can attest that the majority of those were because we were able to place our full ad with you. Other publications were some- what pricey, requiring us to edit our ad to save money. … Thank you for working with us.” FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH KING, N.C.

12 | Information +% +#+ &--.', Associated Baptist Press ‘Intellectually dishonest’ Pastor challenges biblical inerrancy claims based on unidentifiable original autographs

Biblical inerrancy — the idea that the theology from Southern Baptist Theological There is not some dusty text, this original hid- Seminary, said the reason some people want den away in some obscure cave in Israel.” Bible’s authors were safeguarded against to treat the Bible like a science book is “the “The Bible came into being over a period error when inspired by God to write facts doctrine of plenary verbal inspiration,” which of centuries,” Kremer said. “Its pages origi- he summarized as, “God said it, and humanity nated in diverse places and in diverse times. about science and history in Scripture — wrote it down.” The Old Testament existed in oral tradition, is a misleading and harmful concept that Kremer said there are a few Bible passages passed down from generation to generation before it was ever recorded in print. When it has been used to hurt people and is dam- that seem to support the idea, such as God dic- tating the Ten Commandments to Moses and was printed it was written in a variety of places aging to the cause of Christ, a Baptist commanding Moses to write them down. On in a variety of versions.” pastor in Georgia said recently. the other hand, Kremer said, God would have “There is no such thing as an original to be pretty egotistical to dictate words to the autograph of the Scripture, and to claim such “Few words in the last 30 years have caused psalmist to be read back a manuscript is the basis for the inerrancy is more mischief than the word inerrancy,” Pastor as praise unto himself. intellectually dishonest,” he said. Richard Kremer said in a sermon at Garden Kremer said the Kremer said some people might desire to Lakes Baptist Church in Rome, Ga. fact that each of the four just dismiss the whole argument with, “Why Kremer, who came to Garden Lakes three Gospels reports differ- does it matter?” but in fact it does matter what years ago from St. John’s Baptist Church in ent details surrounding people say about the Bible. Charlotte, N.C., said while the word “iner- Christ’s resurrection, such “I don’t want young people thinking rant” might seem like a perfectly fine word to as who was present and they have to discard their faith because some describe the authenticity and authority of the how many angels were at scientist has made a discovery that seems to Bible, the term “has been used and manipu- the empty tomb, shows Richard Kremer contradict some biblical principle,” he said. lated,” especially during the divisive area in the Bible wasn’t intended “I don’t want a scientist having to put his/her Southern Baptist life often called the “conser- to convey history in the same way that a mod- brain on ice because his/her discoveries contra- vative resurgence.” ern historian would write a book about the dict what the Bible allegedly teaches about one “This word has in fact done horrendous Civil War. scientific discipline or another.” damage to the character of the Bible and ruined Kremer noted that the creation account Kremer said nearby Shorter University’s countless lives,” Kremer said. “The cause of in the first chapter of Genesis says that God new statement of faith “We believe the Bible Christ is being damaged by its use even now.” created everything in the world first and ... is the inerrant and infallible Word of God” In a sermon text picked up by a website humanity last. Another account in chapter 2 is true to a point. “When you come to talking opposed to recent changes at the Georgia says that God created humanity first, and then about the character of God, the Bible is indeed Baptist Convention-related Shorter University, followed with the natural order. Kremer said inerrant,” he said. “When you’re talking about Kremer referred to a biology professor there the editor of Genesis was surely smart enough the revelation of God in Christ, we can trust who resigned because his boss wanted him to to notice the discrepancy, “but he didn’t care,” that information with perfect confidence.” teach theories such as young-earth creationism because he was not proposing a scientific Those who assert that the Bible is cor- that have no scientific basis. explanation of creation, only that it ultimately rect on its teaching about geology, however, In effect, Kremer said, the administrator goes back to God. “grossly misinterpret the Bible’s purpose,” he wanted the professor to “turn a blind eye to the Kremer also pointed out that the tra- said, because the ancient biblical writers did fossil records, ignore the evidence of geological ditional understanding of biblical inerrancy not even know that an endeavor known as shifts and continental drifts, ignore the pot- applies not to modern versions of the Bible but “geology” would ever exist. tery shards — all of which make the point that to a hypothetical original referred to as “the Kremer said those who argue for the Bible’s 6,000 years is but a sliver of human existence autographs.” perfection go beyond what Scripture has to say on this earth, much less the history of the earth “That’s very convenient,” he said. “For about itself. “The word never claims perfection as a whole.” no one has ever seen the Bible’s original auto- for the word,” he said. “The perfection is for the Kremer, who holds a Ph.D. in systematic graphs. Do you know why? They don’t exist! Word made flesh in Jesus Christ.” BT

“I don’t want young people thinking they have to discard their faith because some scientist has made a discovery that seems to contradict some biblical principle.”

Information | 13 +% +5-- 65-!#'

Describe a healthy pastor search process, please

he search process for a new pastor is both we had to work to maintain confidentiality programming so that I was free to move around an exhilarating and a risky time for a about the search process. The committee did an and observe what was going on, talk with Tcongregation. Healthy congregations go extraordinary job with this.” persons as I had opportunity, etc. This arrange- at this task from the framework of a spiritual ment was valuable in helping me get a feel for discernment process that is unique to the free- Integrating a new pastor into an estab- programs and become acquainted with a sizable call tradition of congregational life. lished staff is one of the most perilous segment of the church leadership.” While every search is unique, there are aspects of a call. How did you approach some guiding principles that apply to all of us. this? Setzer: “An intentional interim process had While there is a good bit of generic material on identified and begun to work with some of the the market, best practices remain an excellent Setzer: “I was blessed to meet with the staff hot-button issues in the congregation. Also, way to learn from one another. ministers at length at a mid-point in the pro- the church held a big installation service several Recently, I asked four pastors who have cess. They had long tenure at the church, and weeks after my arrival that was an important transitioned to new churches in recent months knew the church far better, in some ways, than celebration for them and for me.” a series of questions about their experience. the search committee.” The pastors are: Mike Smith (Central Baptist What advice would you give other of Fountain City, Knoxville, Tenn.), Bob Setzer Smith: “I spent one full day meeting with each clergy involved in a search process? (Knollwood Baptist, Winston-Salem N.C.), staff member individually and with the entire Charity Roberson (Sharon Baptist, Smithfield group twice. Each had prepared and shared a Dortch: “The chairman of the search committee N.C.) and Doug Dortch (Mountain Brook written document outlining their backgrounds, formalized the terms of the call with a ‘Memo Baptist, Birmingham, Ala.). Here is a glimpse at current work, aspirations and what each was of Understanding,’ something I had never been some of their observations. looking for in the next pastor. These docu- given in other situations. It served to clarify for ments helped make our conversations quite all parties all aspects of my transition.” What about the search process meaningful.” impressed you? Roberson: “Don’t be afraid to slow down the What worked well for you in terms of process. When a search committee gets to the Smith: “The committee took time to research and your entry into the life of your new point of having narrowed down to a candidate, report back to me on difficult questions. They church? sometimes I think they are just really ready to did not attempt to rush me, but actually prayed move forward and be done with the job. It’s a and reflected with me about the decision.” Roberson: “The pictorial directory was invaluable great game of wait, wait and then hurry up.” to me. I kept referring to it 10 weeks in, [and] I Dortch: “During the introductory weekend, find myself still going back to it regularly.” Setzer: “Ask for whatever you feel you need and the committee planned a Saturday morning want at the front end prior to your arrival. I reception. This activity served to ‘lower the Dortch: “I was fortunate to come during Advent negotiated a sabbatical that included ‘credit for temperature’ of the weekend and gave that time and was able to meet with a number of small accrued service’ that took into account my ser- a much more relaxed feel.” groups that had already planned Christmas vice at my previous church. Also, try to cobble socials. One way or another, I would recom- together a good chunk of time between pastor- Setzer: “Using video conferencing allowed us to mend small group gatherings.” ates. It was invaluable to us as we prepared a ‘meet’ one another without the expense, trouble house for sale, said goodbye to good friends, and exposure of a trip. Having not done this in Smith: “My first two months on the job, the and regrouped and retooled for the next leg of 15 years, I was surprised at how much harder staff assumed responsibility for Wednesday the journey.”

Smith: “Don’t want the new place too much. Force yourself to take your time and discern the health and honesty of the potential situation, to pray and reflect honestly to discern if your gifts and skill set fit their needs and if God might be in this.”

Let those who have ears, hear. BT

—Bill Wilson is president of the Center for Congregational Health in Winston-Salem, N.C. This column was distributed by ABP.

14 | Perspective Guest Commentary By Guy Sayles When the church is the church’s greatest threat

FDR famously said, “The only thing we result of broader trends away from civic engage- When church people use the Bible like a ment and social affiliation. The gap between weapon to bludgeon people with whom they have to fear is fear itself.” Similarly, I people’s fascination with Jesus and their indif- disagree or to oppress women and keep them sometimes think the church’s greatest ference, or even resistance, to the church also “in their place”; when fear is a tactic to force has to do with the church’s own failure to be like conformity of behavior and uniformity of threat is the church itself. Jesus. thought; when condemnation is more com- hese days, many people are intensely Big and obvious wrongs show how the mon than compassion; when legalism overrules interested in Jesus, but, at the same time, church can fail to look and sound like Jesus: freedom; when forgiveness gets lost in the fog profoundly disinterested in the church. Priests abuse children. Preachers call for men and of judgment; when status matters more than T women created in God’s service; and when harshness drives out humility, This wide gap between how people feel about Jesus and how they feel about the church image to be rounded up, then the church has made itself unlike Jesus. reflects, in part, a broad cultural trend away locked up and quarantined When these kinds of things happen, people from involvement in organized groups. or killed because of their outside the church see sooner and more clearly Across America, membership in civic clubs lifestyles. Televangelists than do people inside that something is desper- — Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions — has been declining amass wealth scammed ately wrong. for two decades. from people living on fixed They wonder how there can be so much Far fewer Americans vote in elections, incomes. talking and singing about Jesus and so little evi- participate in political parties, and attend city But there are every- dence that the people doing all that talking and council, county commission or school board day ways in which the singing mean to follow him and be like him. meetings. church denies Jesus, just as surely as Peter did The greatest threat the church faces is the More and more Americans say something on the night before Jesus’ death. church itself, and the best hope for the church like: “I am spiritual but not religious,” which When justice, peace and concern for the is Jesus. Those of us who claim to follow him means they have feelings of connection with the marginalized get pushed aside by petty moral- need actually to do so. BT divine and practices that nurture such connec- ism, nervous deference to the status quo and tions, but keep their distance from churches. anxious refusal to share resources with those —Guy Sayles is pastor of First Baptist Church of Jesus is popular. The church? Not so much. who need them, then the church is a long way Asheville, N.C. This column also appeared on his That distance from the church isn’t simply the from Jesus. blog and at ethicsdaily.com. The gap between people’s fascination with Jesus and their indifference, or even resistance, to the church also has to do with the church’s own failure to be like Jesus.

Perspective | 15

September lessons in this issue Wise Women

A Woman Who Loves — Song of Songs 2:8-15 A Word About Justice — Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 A Shout in the Street — Proverbs 1:20-3 ™ A Woman Beyond Belief — Proverbs 31:10-31 A Winning Woman — Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22

Bible study curriculum for adults and youth

Teaching resources at nurturingfaith.net

HOW TO USE THESE BIBLE STUDIES

1. Order a copy of Baptists Today news journal for EACH MEMBER of the class. The weekly lessons are found only here. 2. Teachers can go to nurturingfaith.net to access all opular Bible teacher and writer Tony W. Cartledge of the free resources needed for presentation. writes each of the weekly Bible studies in Baptists Today Teaching the Lessons (beginning on page 18). Themes are based on selected texts from the Revised Common Lectionary. After reading Tony Cartledge’s weekly Bible study P These lessons — found exclusively in this Nurturing Faith lessons starting on page 18, Sunday school teachers and other Bible leaders can access helpful teaching section of Baptists Today — form the foundation for the teaching resources (at no charge) at nurturingfaith.net. resources for all age groups. Each class participant should have These include: a copy of Baptists Today with these lessons in hand. Christian educator Rick Jordan of the Cooperative Baptist * Tony’s video overviews Fellowship of North Carolina provides a teaching plan for each * Adult teaching plans by Rick Jordan lesson, available at nurturingfaith.net. His FIT FAITH approach * Youth teaching plans by Jeremy Colliver to teaching allows for class engagement with the biblical texts * Tony’s “Digging Deeper” notes and ”The Hardest Question” as well as with one another. * Links to commentaries, multimedia The Youth Lessons — found on pages 22-23 — build off of resources and more Tony’s Bible studies and direct these biblical truths to the daily lives of students. Curriculum developer David Cassady writes the How to Order youth lessons in the news journal, and student minister Jeremy Bible Studies in Baptists Today are copyrighted and Colliver provides the online teaching guides for each lesson found not to be photocopied. at nurturingfaith.net (or linked from baptiststoday.org).

* Orders may be placed at baptiststoday.org or 1-877-752-5658. * The price is just $18 each for groups of 25 or more — for a full year — with no additional costs. Thanks sponsors! * All online teaching resources are available at no These Bible studies for adults and youth are sponsored through generous charge and may be printed and used by teachers of gifts from the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (Bo Prosser, Coordinator of the Nurturing Faith Bible Studies. Congregational Life) and from the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation. Thank you!

© Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org | 17 Song of Songs 2:8-15

with Tony W. Cartledge

Sept. 2, 2012 A Woman Who Loves

ho is the wisest person you know? Chances are good Wthat it’s a woman – perhaps a grandmother or teacher who offered you good counsel in times past. In the ancient world, wisdom was often asso- ciated with women. During the month of September, we’ll be studying five lessons that relate to wisdom in some way, and four of them directly involve women. Our first lesson might not strike you as wisdom literature, but wouldn’t we all like to be wiser in the ways of love? Sunday school lessons from the Song of Songs may be even scarcer than ser- mons on that beautiful but mysterious text, but the ancients were wise enough and inspired enough to preserve it as a part of the scriptures. This may seem strange, because the Song never men- probably a later addition to the original she admires. She is assertive and sexual tions God or Israel, has no religious text. and clearly appreciates the joy of inti- themes, and is frankly, exotically, eroti- “Song of songs” is a superlative macy apart from its role in procreation cally focused on human intimacy and expression, a way of saying “the greatest or patriarchal family systems. It is also sex with no mention of marriage – or of song.” Catholic-influenced translations interesting that she often speaks of her sin. call it “Canticles,” after the title in the mother’s house and her mother’s bed- So, what wisdom might we find in Vulgate. chamber, both of which speak of female the Song of Songs? The short book’s 117 verses com- power or autonomy in lovemaking. prise anywhere from five to 50 different The fact that the woman speaks so The wisdom of love poems, depending on how one counts often suggests the distinct possibility them. The book is not a unified, lyrical that a woman could have written all or The Song of Songs, traditionally love song or a clear drama, though some part of the poetry found in the Song of (but erroneously) called the Song of scholars have labored hard to argue for Songs. Solomon, is one of five short books the that and identify speaking parts. It is a Hebrew Bible refers to as the Megilloth collection of love poems that probably Love desired (scrolls). refer to more than one couple. Just how (vv. 8-9) The name of the book comes from the Song functioned in Israel’s life and Today’s text is the latter part of a its first verse, which literally reads, worship is unclear. speech in which a smitten woman “The song of songs, which is to/of/ A fascinating aspect of this book is speaks gleefully of her beloved and by/for Solomon.” This notation, like that, despite the patriarchal dominance the joy she takes in him. In v. 7, she the superscriptions of the psalms, was of Israel’s history, the woman plays a addresses “the daughters of Jerusalem,” positive and powerful role in the Song. who are likely the audience for her Additional background information She is not a passive target for the man’s earlier musings. She describes her beau online where you see the “Digging affection, but appears just as bold as he in lavish terms as a rare find, “like an Deeper” icon in describing what she wants and what apple tree among the trees of the wood”

18 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes Who were the foxes that threatened (v. 3). “I sat in his shadow,” she says, are available at “and his fruit was sweet to my taste.” the couple’s love, which was just in The image of shade suggests both pro- nurturingfaith.net bloom? The poem does not say, but evi- tection from the blazing sun and the dence in other parts of the Song point delight of a secretive location. It is her to possible ethnic or class differences. beloved who is the source of shade, words that sound reminiscent of a rite of In 1:5 she is “black but beautiful,” however, and she extends the metaphor spring he bids her come away with him, though she attributes her dark coloring with a figurative description of their apparently to relish their love amid the to being forced to work outdoors as a happy encounter. beautiful world of springtime. vine-keeper. The notion of taste leads to v. 4, With the passing of winter rains In chapter 5 she goes out in search where “the banqueting house” (literally, (v. 11) – when planting was done of her lover, but is caught and beaten “house of wine”) is a metaphor for the – springtime offered a window of by night watchmen, though the cause of feast of love they share. While the opportunity for other pursuits. Kings led her offense is not clear. woman asks for raisin cakes and apples their armies forth to war in the spring Whatever obstacles they had to for sustenance in her love-sick state (2 Sam. 11:1) because they weren’t overcome, the lovers succeed, and the (v. 5), the cure she most desires is to be needed in the fields until harvest. The woman describes their love (or perhaps in her beloved’s arms: “O that his left same freedom brought the man to his lovemaking) through metaphor: “My hand were under my head and that his beloved, declaring that spring had beloved is mine and I am his,” she says, right hand embraced me” (v. 6). arrived and it was time for love. “he pastures his flock among the lilies” Enamored with thoughts of love, As romantic partners today enjoy (NRSV, or NET: “he grazes among the the maiden calls on her companions, the hiking mountain trails, strolling through lilies,” v. 16). The woman hopes the “daughters of Jerusalem,” to swear that floral gardens, or ambling along a encounter will last through the night they will not “awaken or arouse love” beach, the man calls the woman to (“until the day breathes and the shad- until “it delights” (literally), some- come away with him. He speaks of ows flee”), urging her beloved to “be times translated “until it is ready” (v. 7, flowers, birdsong, fig trees, and fragrant like a gazelle or a young stag on the NRSV). Here, as in many other places vineyards, all possible background cleft of the mountains” (v. 17). in the Song, “love” is not abstract, but settings for expressions of love (vv. What do we do with such a frank descriptive of physical passion. The 12-13). and erotic description of love between idea seems to be a caution that one Despite her earlier enthusiasm, two people? Why is this in scripture? should not arouse one’s ardor before the the woman appears to have become As noted in the online “Digging time is right. afraid. The male lover speaks of her as Deeper” comments, interpreters have With v. 8 (and the official begin- a dove hiding in one of the many holes employed a variety of approaches in ning of today’s text), the maiden exults characteristic of the pockmarked rocky trying to make sense of the text or to in the sound of her beloved’s voice and cliffs of Palestine (v. 14). He calls her make it palatable to prudish readers. the sight of his approach. She describes to come out of hiding so he can see her While the idea that the Song describes him as being like a gazelle or a young face and hear her voice, “for your voice God’s love for Israel may have been the stag (v. 9), “leaping upon the moun- is sweet, and your face is lovely.” most popular, it is exegetically the least tains, bounding over the hills.” Both With v. 15, the woman speaks satisfying, for such an interpretation stags and gazelles, sure-footed residents again, apparently giving voice to her has to be imposed on a text that doesn’t of the area’s mountain crags and open fears. Whether she is speaking to her really invite it. plains, were often associated with male lover or to a wider audience is unclear, In the end, we may regard this and virility in the ancient Near East. but she appeals for someone to “catch other texts from the Song of Songs as The maiden is so anxious for his the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the a welcome biblical endorsement of the arrival that she does not wait for a vineyards, for our vineyards are in wonder and beauty of love, passion and knock at the door, but watches for him blossom.” sexual encounter as being among God’s as he approaches. Earlier, the man had spoken of most beautiful and praiseworthy gifts. vineyards in blossom, and now she The man considers the woman to be Love invited returns to the image as a metaphor for a “lily among the brambles” (v. 2) while (vv. 10-15) their love, which appears to be threat- she considers him to be “an apple tree With v. 10, the beloved arrives, and ened. Several of the poems in the Song among the trees of the wood” his voice – quoted by the woman – is speak of lovers who don’t match up (v. 3). Surely that kind of joyful, heard in the next several verses. The with social conventions and are thus devoted relationship has something man is just as eager to see the woman discouraged from meeting, leading them sacred about it, something worthy of as she is to be reunited with him. In to meet at night or in secret places. poetry and song – even of scripture. BT

LESSON FOR SEPTEMBER 2, 2012 | 19 Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23

with Tony W. Cartledge

Sept. 9, 2012 A Word About Justice

ave you ever spent much time reading the Book of Proverbs? HIf so, you have noticed that the book includes a variety of materials that address many different topics. Today’s texts deal, in one way or the other, with issues of justice. Before we get into specifics, however, let’s get a quick overview of Proverbs, which we’ll be studying for the next three weeks. The Book of Proverbs, along with Job, Ecclesiastes and a few of the Psalms, belongs to a genre of writings we refer to as Wisdom literature, which differs from other Old Testament writings. Wisdom’s primary purpose is not to narrate the redemptive history of Israel’s relationship with God, as we teacher/tutor to a student. Terms such as find in the Pentateuch, the narrative 22, but they come from two different “your father” and “my son” may refer to literature, and the prophets. Nor is it collections. The first two pairs (vv. teacher and pupil, not just family rela- to express joyful or lamenting worship 1-2, 8-9) are found near the end of 375 tionships. to God, like the Psalms. The Wisdom proverbs identified as “Proverbs of In structure, Proverbs are basically books explore what it means to live Solomon” (10:1-22:16). The last pair is short, popular sayings that communicate wisely, and also ask questions about near the beginning of a section called a familiar truth in easily memorized God that are not broached in the other “The Sayings of the Wise” (22:17- form, usually two- to four-line poems. writings. 24:22). While some of the Proverb collec- Wisdom literature says nothing of The first text deals with a proper tions are attributed to Solomon, this Abraham or Moses or covenants with attitude toward wealth, and offers an does not mean he wrote them all. Many God, but is based largely on a theology appropriate word for our materialistic, of the proverbs, no doubt, are bits of of creation and providence. Like their greed-driven society. traditional wisdom that had been passed compatriots in Egypt and Mesopotamia, “A good name is to be chosen rather down for many years. the Hebrew sages saw God primarily than great riches,” v. 1 contends, “and as the creator and sustainer of all. They favor is better than silver or gold.” The A good name word “good” is not present but implied: believed that God had instilled a divine (vv. 1-2) order into the universe, and that the wise a literal translation would be “A name could perceive relationships between The other four Bible studies for Sept- (is to be) chosen over great riches, and cause and effect based on that order. ember deal specifically with female favor over silver and gold.” The Book of Proverbs consists characters. Today’s lesson focuses on The proverb does not criticize the mainly of practical wisdom that would issues of justice, which is not gender- enterprise of seeking honest gain to have been passed down from father or specific. In my experience, however, provide for one’s family and prepare for mother to son or daughter, or from a when I think of people I know who old age. Other proverbs, in fact, extol work for social justice, most of them are hard work and strategic planning (e.g. Additional background information women. 6:6; 12:24, 27; 13:4; 15:9; 19:24; 20:4; online where you see the “Digging Our study consists of three pairs 21:25; 26:13-16). This same chapter, in Deeper” icon of proverbs. All are found in chapter fact, chides those who make any excuse

20 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes to avoid work: “The lazy person says A good advocate ‘There is a lion outside; I shall be killed are available at (vv. 22-23) in the streets!’” (22:13). nurturingfaith.net The third proverb pair in today’s study The caution expressed in this proverb is in the same chapter, but belongs to a is not about money, but extreme amounts different collection, called “The Words of money: a good name and good favor remaining 80 percent of the population. (or Sayings) of the Wise.” Scholars have are contrasted with the possession of Wealthy people may not con- often noted that this collection of sayings “great riches” and “silver and gold.” sider profiting at the expense of the (22:17-24:22) bears many similarities What is your attitude toward poor to have a moral aspect, but to an Egyptian wisdom text called “The money? Is enough ever enough? Is your Israel’s Wisdom teachers would have Instructions of Amen-em-o-pe.” sense of self-worth measured by your considered it unjust, and warned of The second set of proverbs con- net worth? consequences: “Whoever sows injustice trasted human injustice with human The proverb reminds us there will reap calamity, and the rod of anger generosity, and our third set goes a step are things far more important than a will fail” (v. 8). further by insisting that Yahweh (the fat bank account, luxurious vacation In contrast, “Those who are gener- Hebrew name for God represented by homes, and more vehicles than fam- ous are blessed, for they share their “the LORD”) is an advocate for the ily members. Specifically, this proverb bread with the poor” (v. 9). poor, and pleads their case. speaks to the value of our (good) name The metaphor of sowing and reap- Those who are wise will not “rob the – a common Hebrew way of talking ing occurs commonly in the Bible, poor because they are poor, or crush the about our reputation, the esteem we nearly always some variation of the afflicted at the gate” (v. 22). People do have in others’ eyes. notion that we reap what we sow. Those not take from the poor just because they Would we rather be known for our who sow injustice will reap calamity, are poor, of course, but because they are kindness or our cash? For relationships the writer said. easy targets, with little power to resist. or riches? For investing in a better com- The global financial meltdown of The prophets roundly criticized munity, or accumulating capital? the past several years – triggered by a those who acquired large tracts of land The companion proverb adds per- wildly speculative and undisciplined by fraudulent means, often by bringing spective to the first: “The rich and the financial system that rewarded greedy false charges against poor farmers and poor have this in common: the LORD risk and ultimately collapsed – could be hiring false witnesses to testify against is the maker of them all” (v. 2). We all “Exhibit A” in the sage’s case. Despite them before the elders who sat in judg- come into the world as part of God’s losing more total wealth, the richest ment at the city gate (e.g. Isa. 1:23, 5:8). creation. When we exit this world, we Americans suffered far less than those Robber barons should be warned take nothing with us. When we stand in the lower economic strata who lost that the poor may have no defense at before God, the goods we gained on their jobs and who remain unemployed the city gate, but “the LORD will plead earth will have no value: all we will or who earn far less than before. their case, and will rob those who are have is our name, and what it signifies. In contrast, one who is generous robbing them” (v. 23, NET). Such ret- understands the moral imperative of ribution may not happen immediately A good heart helping the poor. They share, taking or even individually, but over time, bal- (vv. 8-9) action to feed the hungry. “Those who ance will come. When the Assyrians Our second set of two proverbs moves are generous” is from an idiom that conquered Israel in 722 B.C., and when from personal greed to intentional literally means “one [who is] good the Babylonians gained sovereignty over injustice. Even a small group of people of eye,” or “one [who has] a bounti- Judah in 597 B.C., the first people to go devoted to amassing wealth – if suc- ful eye.” A good eye is the opposite into exile were the elites: the wealthy cessful – can foment an economic of the dreaded “evil eye.” It is open to and well-educated people whose power system in which the deck is stacked so the needs of others, and seeks to bless could prove threatening to the new over- that the rich get richer and the poor get rather than to curse. lords if they were left in place. poorer. As the exceedingly rich increase In return, the sage insists, generous As we consider the economic dis- their slice of the fiscal pie, the less there people are blessed. Such blessing may parities of our world and our nation is for everyone else. or may not be in the form of material today, do you think these texts might Statistics compiled in 2007 showed gain. Those who give of their money or have something to say to us? Do our that one percent of Americans control volunteer their time on mission trips or personal financial practices, or even about 35 percent of the nation’s finan- in social ministry efforts often remark our investments, contribute to an ineq- cial wealth and the top 20 percent own that they feel more blessed than the uitable, unjust system that favors the 85 percent of the nation’s net worth. people they have helped. Have you had “haves” and leaves the “have-nots” That leaves just 15 percent for the this experience? wanting? BT

LESSON FOR SEPTEMBER 9, 2012 | 21 David Cassady and Jeremy Colliver

Youth lessons are made possible through the generous YouSeptember 2 — September 30,th 2012 support of the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation. Her Love Story SEPTEMBER 2

o you remember the love notes you seems to have changed her mind because Think About It: used to pass in class: “Do you love me? now she is hiding from him. Why did a poem about two people in love that DCheck ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’” You usually didn’t He describes her as a bird hiding in the doesn’t directly mention God make it into the check either box but rather created your own: clefts of the hill. She hears his voice and Bible? What does the relationship of these “Maybe.” Then you would send the note back comes out of hiding to speak truth into his people reveal about how God loves and seeks through the maze of friends who brought it fears. The poem ends with the woman com- us? to you. ing back to the man and hoping that he will Our passage for today is a short love stick around through the night. poem between a woman and the man she So where do we fi nd God in this poem of Make a Choice: desires. a man and a woman chasing after each other Have you ever pursued someone you love? The woman begins by speaking of hear- and speaking their love to each other? They Did you base your relationship on the joy the ing the voice of the man she loves, and she don’t even speak of their love being grounded other brings as with the two people in this continues to describe the way he comes over in God. Maybe the relationship that is built of poem? the hills after her. He arrives at her place and joy and devotion to each other is one that is waits while looking through the windows being shown as sacred, or maybe it is meant for her. When he speaks to her, he is trying to remind us of the way God pursues and to persuade her to come with him now that loves us. Pray: it is springtime and he has time for her. She God, we praise you for the joy and love that relationships between two people in love bring.

Dollars and Sense SEPTEMBER 9

eenagers earn more than $90 billion a the results of intentionally sowing injustice. Think About It: year! That’s a lot of iTunes downloads People who treat others unjustly are not Teens make more than $90 billion a year. Tand clothing bought at the mall. On blessed because they are wealthy but cursed. That’s between $2,000 and $4,000 per youth! what do you spend all the money you earn or Those who are blessed are the ones who Where does your money go? that is given to you each year? How much of share with the poor. that money do you give to the church or to The third set of proverbs adds another other charitable organizations? dimension of responsibility to the fi rst two Make a Choice: The three scripture references for this sets: the LORD pleads the case of the poor You have an amazing amount of spending session from Proverbs 22 will help you con- and affl icted. We are not to take advantage power. What you spend your money on infl u- sider what you should with your money. of these people; they have no one to speak on ences how producers create their products. The fi rst set of proverbs gives us some their behalf except the LORD. The LORD does Research where your products come from, insight into the extreme wealth a person can not only plead their case, but also destroys and then buy from companies that treat their possess. There are, after all, things that are the life of those who destroy the life of the workers well. more important than wealth — for example, poor and affl icted. a good reputation. We are also to remember Through these proverbs we see that it that whether we are rich or poor, the LORD is is not money that is evil but rather the heart Pray: the maker of us all. in which the money is amassed. Be aware of God, we ask that we spend our money in ways The second set of proverbs talks about what your money can do to you. that build up the Kingdom of God. May we have hearts to help those who are less fortunate as we spend our money.

22 | Youth Woman of Wisdom SEPTEMBER 16

f you were to ask most people you know listen to her so they may come out of their Think About It: what face they would put with wisdom, troubles. They do not listen to her, and so she There are a variety of voices you can listen to Imost likely they would mention a wise old will not help them when their day comes. for advice. How do you decide to whom you man with a long grey beard and pointy nose. Lady Wisdom does offer some hope in will listen? In the passage for this session the saying that some will listen to what she has character presented is not an old man, but a said. Those who listen will be at ease in their woman called Sophia. life and will avoid disaster. She does not Make a Choice: Lady Wisdom operates in the circle of promise they will have no trouble, but rather You make hundreds of choices every day, men but is not bound by what they say to it will not be self-infl icted. some bigger than others. Where do you fi nd her. She has her own authority and even calls So where or from whom do you hear wisdom in making your choices? those around her simple. She wants them to words of wisdom today?

Pray: God, we pray that the choices we make will refl ect your will.

Womanhood SEPTEMBER 23

uys, what do you look for in a girl? her hands in everything and done well. She Think About It: Girls, what type of woman are you not only is strong, but also is wise. Above all, How many of the personal traits we desire Gstriving to be? though, she has had time to teach and serve begin with faith in God? Today’s passage from Proverbs provides the poor. some criteria of what a woman should strive Her accomplishments do not go unno- to be. There is some debate as to whether ticed as she has praise heaped on her by her Make a Choice: this advice came from a mother to her son or children, her husband and others who know How can you help women see that true whether it was a man refl ecting on women. of her deeds. beauty fl ows out of a relationship with God Either way, the passage provides attributes It is the closing verses of the passage instead of what society pushes on them? for an ideal woman. that reveal where all of her wisdom comes The proverb begins with a list of the from: the fear of the LORD. And this is where accomplishments of this woman. She has had we should all begin, whether male or female. Pray: God, we pray that we will hold up attributes of women that are sustainable and in your will.

Saving Her People SEPTEMBER 30

hat is the most pressure-packed to Haman as the man whose actions have Think About It: situation you have been in because endangered her people. This disclosure sends Esther had Mordecai as someone to support Wof your faith? In our scripture from the king into a rage because Haman is his her when times got diffi cult. Who do you have Esther we read about how she saved the lives number-two man. The king orders Haman in your life to hold you up? of every Jew in Persia. to be hung from the gallows Haman had The passage begins in the middle of the constructed for Mordecai’s hanging. (You story with the king dining with Esther. The wouldn’t believe this stuff if it was a movie Make a Choice: king has again asked her what he can do for plot!) Esther could have requested anything from her. This time Esther responds by asking him Through all of this intrigue we read of a the king. What would you have asked of him? to save her life and the life of her people. woman who used her position not for herself If the king didn’t know why, Esther but to help her people. She followed the will tells him of her people’s history. She points of the LORD. Pray: God, we ask that the decisions we make refl ect your will.

Youth | 23 Proverbs 1:20-33

with Tony W. Cartledge

Sept. 16, 2012 A Shout in the Street

oday’s text introduces us to one of the more intriguing characters Tin the entire Bible, a figurative representation of wisdom – the most valuable of all things – as a woman. Scholars have tended to call her “Lady Wisdom,” “Dame Wisdom” or “Woman Wisdom.” The word for “wisdom” in Greek is Sophia, and there was a Greek goddess known as Sophia. Some writers refer to the biblical Lady Wisdom as “Sophia,” but the two should not be confused. The authors of Proverbs used the metaphor of Lady Wisdom as an effective rhetori- cal device. Whether the poet behind Prov. 1:20-33 also considered her to be will recall that a supernatural character mostly of individual proverbs, the first a literal, supernatural being is unclear. named Sophia makes an appearance nine chapters contain longer units of Lady Wisdom appears again in near the end of the book. Since other instruction. Scholars generally consider Prov. 3:13-20, where she is much to be representations of the Trinity are this section to have been composed later desired, and in Proverbs 8, where she already present in the narrative, many than the proverb collections that make again calls for the unlearned to follow readers find Sophia’s presence and up the bulk of the book. Evidence sug- her. divine characteristics to be confusing. gests that final composition took place In Prov. 8:22-36 we find a power- An awareness of Lady Wisdom’s role in some time after Israel’s intelligentsia ful, elegant poem in which Wisdom the Book of Proverbs reveals the source returned from exile. describes herself as God’s first creation, of Young’s “Sophia.” The opening verse, probably an an ever-present companion as God While these poetic tributes to even later addition, attributes the established the foundations of the earth, Wisdom as a personified woman are instructions to Solomon, but it does shaped the sky, and delimited the seas. intriguing – and as offering a helpful so tongue-in-cheek, because later sec- In verses 30-31, Wisdom implies that balance to the Bible’s preponderance of tions are clearly credited to other sages. she was a participant in creation, not male language about God – we should Solomon was regarded as a wise man just an observer: “then I was beside him, still regard Lady Wisdom as a useful par excellence, however, and was also like a master worker; and I was daily his metaphor rather than a fourth person of known as a patron of wisdom. delight, rejoicing before him always … the godhead. The purpose of the Book of and delighting in the human race.” Proverbs is set forth in vv. 2-6: its Another impressive ode to Wisdom The beginning of wisdom intent is to teach. Note the piling up of is found in Job 28, where Job wants (vv. 1-19) nouns and verbs that indicate the book’s understanding and searches constantly didactic purpose: learning, instruction, for Wisdom, but cannot find her. Today’s text begins with v. 20, but a understanding, insight, shrewdness, Those who have read The Shack, quick review of the opening verses will knowledge, discerning – all point to the a popular novel by William Young, help us to appreciate the context for Lady Wisdom’s speech. Both are part of book’s educational objective. Additional background information a larger section of extended instructions While much of the wisdom to be online where you see the “Digging that characterize chapters 1-9. found in Proverbs is practical or secular Deeper” icon While later parts of the book consist in nature, the writer believes that all

24 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes knowledge is grounded in God; that of hope. She is aware that many people wisdom begins with a healthy respect are available at will prove deaf to her call and suffer for for the creator of all things, including nurturingfaith.net it, but retains hope that some will listen. wisdom (v. 7). In Hebrew thought, listening is obeying. Specific instruction begins with vv. dangerous complacency (v. 24). They Those who follow Wisdom’s advice and 8-19, which warns young men against have ignored her counsel and spurned live with respect for God’s way “will various enticements to evil. We note her reproof (v. 25). be secure and will live at ease, without that the book consistently addresses Such recalcitrance comes at a cost. dread of disaster” (v. 33). young men, because in Israel’s patri- By remaining committed to their shift- This promise, of course, is in archal system, men held the power to less ways, Wisdom says, she will have direct contrast to the fate of the fool- make most decisions. Whatever edu- no pity when they meet the inevitable ish. While those who reject Wisdom’s cational system Israel had would have disaster that awaits them. Unlike the way will panic and cry out in the face targeted boys only; girls would have narrative and prophetic literature, in of calamity, Wisdom’s followers will been expected to learn at home. which both the nation and individu- live in peaceful security, without fear of als cycle in and out of favor with God, trouble. Following wisdom constantly being given another chance, Readers may be inclined to respond (vv. 20-33) Wisdom sees a day when the foolish to this final claim with skepticism. We While vv. 10-19 speak of brigands who will run out of chances. know better than to think those who would entice young men to embark on When that day comes, when calam- seek to follow God will be invulnerable a raffish life of violence and greed, vv. ity strikes and they panic in the face of to trouble. We all have known saints of 20-33 offer a different kind of entice- the storm, when distress and anguish God who tried to live wisely but still ment, as Lady Wisdom calls the simple finally get their attention, it will be too had to face cancer, job loss, storm dam- to a more profitable path. late. Wisdom will offer no helping hand age or heartache. How does this match A number of scholars have pointed then, but threatens to laugh and mock up with v. 33? to the chiastic structure of 1:20-33, in their discomfiture (vv. 26-27). At this point, it might be helpful which a sequence of elements or themes “Then they will call upon me, but I to read the online “Hardest Question” is set out and then repeated in reverse will not answer,” she says. “They will response from last week’s lesson. There order, often surrounding a central point. seek me diligently, but will not find is a sense, however, in which we can This has the effect of adding emphasis me.” regard Wisdom’s claim as perfectly to the main point, and making the larger They will have ignored her one time accurate. Her speech has consistently instruction more memorable. too many, and it will be too late to turn insisted that the foolish will face calam- Note the extended parallelism of vv. around. ities they bring upon themselves. They 20-21: Wisdom’s voice is heard in the The announcement of judgment should live in fear of trouble, because street, in the squares, at busy corners and is framed by the motivation for it, as they are constantly courting trouble. at the city gates. Why is this significant? vv. 29-30 reflect the similar thoughts Those who follow Wisdom’s Wisdom is personified as a woman, but to those in vv. 24-25. The foolish have way are not immune to trouble (often she operates in the sphere of men. She ignored the way of Wisdom and chosen brought on by others who choose the is not bound to the home or under a hus- to follow the empty-headed road that way of folly!), but they can rest easy in band’s control, but speaks on her own leads to destruction. knowing that any trials they may face authority and does her work in the mer- What is different in vv. 29-30 is that will not be self-inflicted. cantile streets, the public squares and the Wisdom makes it clear that the knowl- In the end, the problem is that those very gates of the city, where the “elders” edge, counsel and reproof she offers has who are most subject to self-destructive (inevitably men) presided over a com- divine roots: the foolish have refused to behaviors are also most likely to be mon law justice system. choose “the fear of the LORD,” which blind to the danger. Wisdom addresses her audience as v. 7 had identified as the root of true How does Wisdom speak today? “simple ones,” “scoffers” and “fools” wisdom. Surely we don’t expect to see a robed who seem stuck on the dead-end road Those who choose errant ways will woman striding through our streets with of dullness, mockery and foolishness “eat the fruit of their way and be sated a strident voice, calling for the foolish (v. 22). She calls upon them to “give with their own devices” (v. 31), an to change their ways. heed to my reproof” and hear her words alternate way of saying “you reap what Wisdom, however, may speak of wisdom (v. 23), then decries their you sow.” Wayward and foolish per- through our voices, in our streets, in our stubborn refusal to respond. They have sons will suffer, but their suffering will homes. Where have you heard the voice refused her invitation and disregarded be self-inflicted. of Wisdom? Has it often been in your the hand she offered to lift them from Wisdom’s speech ends with a word own speech? BT

LESSON FOR SEPTEMBER 16, 2012 | 25 Proverbs 31:10-31

with Tony W. Cartledge

Sept. 23, 2012 A Woman Beyond Belief

uperwoman: Is there a better word to describe what is expected of Smany women today? It’s now more customary than not for a woman to work outside the home, yet surveys show that the burden of housekeeping and childcare still falls mainly to her. Who can live up to the expecta- tions of being a sharp businesswoman, a terrific parent, a perfect wife and an effective housekeeper? Proverbs 31:20- 31 describes just such a woman, a woman who seems too good to be true. Could any mortal woman really be and do all the things attributed to “the ideal wife” in this text, or should this paean to virtuous womanhood be under- In either case, we note that the orig- this final bit of instruction came from a stood as another description of wisdom inator of this teaching is not the king’s woman, too. personified, this time in the form of the father or a male teacher, but a woman consummate spouse? – his mother. This is also the only bibli- A heroic wife (vv. 10-27) A mother’s advice cal example of instructions being given (vv. 1-9) directly to a king, although it was quite The poem describing the “capable wife” common in Mesopotamia for wisdom or “ideal woman” is carefully structured Proverbs 31 is attributed to a king texts to address the king directly. on a number of levels. Most obviously named Lemuel, who passed it on as les- Many scholars have noted that – at least to Hebrew readers – it is an sons his mother taught him. This is a Proverbs 1 and 31 contain many simi- acrostic. The poem contains 22 lines, surprise, because the Bible never speaks lar themes, and both feature a strong and each line begins with a letter of the of any Hebrew king named Lemuel. An woman who personifies wisdom. As Hebrew alphabet, in alphabetical order old Jewish tradition holds that Lemuel such, they frame the teachings between from ’alef (v. 10) to tau (v. 31). was an alternate name for Solomon, and give us cause to wonder how much Further, the composition – like the which would mean the advice origi- of the wisdom in Proverbs originated poem about Lady Wisdom in 1:23-30 – nated with Bathsheba, but there is no with women. can be analyzed as a chiasm, with two real evidence to support the claim. The queen mother urges her son to mirrored descriptions surrounding a An alternate translation could be avoid losing himself in either women central thought. In this case, the central “The sayings of Lemuel, king of Massa, or in wine, lest his judgment should thought is how the woman’s tireless which his mother taught him.” Massa become cloudy and he should be dis- labors and eminent wisdom honor her may have been a small kingdom in tracted from upholding justice and husband. northern Arabia. This may suggest that defending the rights of the poor, which While a surface reading might lead the author borrowed from non-Israelite are his main functions (vv. 3-9). While one to assume the poem is simply a traditions, giving credit to the source. this may end the advice directly attrib- model pattern for an idealized wife, uted to Lemuel’s mother, there is no there is more to it. No woman could Additional background information indication of another speaker before actually be expected to live up to this online where you see the “Digging the closing poem about the ideal wife. woman’s accomplishments. She appears Deeper” icon Thus, the reader is led to consider that to work both day and night. She takes

26 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes perfect care of her family while also where respected elders of the city acted owning and managing real estate inter- are available at as legal authorities to settle cases and ests, vineyards and a commercial cloth/ nurturingfaith.net uphold justice. clothing enterprise. She finds time to From the poet’s perspective, the assist the poor, and imparts her wisdom noble wife’s untiring efforts to sup- to others as she works. Exercising economic acumen, she port the family enable her husband to Reading beneath the surface, we invests in real estate and plants vine- contribute to the larger community by see that the poem, coming at the end yards (v. 16), always running a profitable promoting justice. of the book, distills the essence of the business (v. 18a) in part because she The final two verses of the poem collected wisdom and virtues that make works tirelessly and extends her interests address the reader directly as they up the prior chapters. Men as well as widely. “Her lamp does not go out at elaborate on the value of the ideal wife, women can learn from the poem’s night” (v. 18b), and “she rises while it is whose characteristics have so much approach, which praises “godly wisdom still night” to care for her children and in common with Lady Wisdom. Both that is beneficial to the family and the manage the servants, never stopping to charm and beauty could lead one astray, society” (NET, Prov. 31:10 n. 23). “eat the bread of idleness” (vv. 14-15, the poet says, but a woman who fears We get a clue as to the “super- 17). Despite that busy schedule, she finds the LORD is to be praised” (v. 30). woman” status of the ideal wife with time to reach out and provide for the This closing thought revisits the the title given to her in v. 10: “a capable poor (v. 20). book’s opening verses, which set the wife, who can find?” (NRSV). “Capable The woman’s impressive activ- stage with the foundational concept wife” is really inadequate to express the ity and optimistic outlook are further that “the fear of the LORD is the begin- fullness of the term ’ayshet khayîl. described in more metaphorical fash- ning of wisdom” (1:7). Thus, the entire The word ’ayshet can mean either ion: “She girds herself with strength, book is framed by the admonition that “woman” or “wife.” Although the same and makes her arms strong” (v. 17). respect for God’s way is the root of true term was used of the heroic Ruth (Ruth “Strength and dignity are her clothing, wisdom. 3:l1), khayîl is more commonly used of and she laughs at the time to come” The closing verse multiplies praise men to indicate a high level of wealth, (v. 25). She is both wise and strong. for the valorous wife who seems such power or valor. David, for example, The relationship of the heroic wife to an embodiment of wisdom. “Give her a was called a gibbor khayîl, indicat- Lady Wisdom as a model for emulation share in the fruit of her hands” suggests ing his prowess as a warrior. In Judg. is furthered strengthened with the claim that she should rightly share ownership 6:12, Gideon was addressed by the that in the course of her work, she takes of the fruits of her vineyard, the profits same term, usually translated “mighty time to teach others: “She opens her of her labor. It could also, however, be a warrior.” mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of figurative way of saying “give her credit We get a second clue to the kindness is on her tongue” (v. 26). for what she has accomplished” (NET). woman’s special nature through the The noble wife’s very works should Give her a hand awareness that she is an uncommon bring honor to her, the poet says: “let her (vv. 28-31) treasure who has to be sought out, and works praise her in the city gates.” when found, “is far more precious than The wise and hard-working woman of A close look at Proverbs, then, jewels” (v. 10, cp. 3:15 and 8:11). vv. 10-27 deserves praise upon praise, reveals that the teachings of wisdom The woman’s husband is most for- and receives it. “Her children rise up are not just for men or by men, despite tunate. His wife contributes steadily to and call her blessed,” we read, “and her the frequent use of “my son.” Wisdom the family’s income as an accomplished husband, too” (v. 28). “Many women begins with a healthy respect for God, businesswoman (v. 11), and he can trust have done excellently,” he says, “but who created all things and ordered the her implicitly, for she “does him good you surpass them all” (v. 29). universe to act as it does. Wisdom is and not harm all the days of her life” The husband certainly should be not bound by gender; it may be taught (v. 12). pleased. While his heroic wife works by women or men, all of whom should The noble wife engages in a variety her fingers to the bone and spreads wis- follow its path if they are to understand of business ventures. She seeks out dom all around, he apparently spends how the world works and to succeed in the raw materials of wool and flax his days sitting at the city gate with the life. (v. 13), and works with distaff and other elders of the city (v. 23). The “noble wife” may be a model spindle to weave them into cloth (v. 19). While we might look askance at the of perfection that none of us could She makes clothes of scarlet to keep her husband, who appears to be sponging match, but the call of wisdom extends family warm in the winter (v. 21), and off of his wife, the narrator has a dif- to all, and wiser living is a goal to fine linen garments for herself and to ferent perspective. The city gate was which every boy, girl, man and woman sell in the marketplace (vv. 22, 24). the locus of justice in Israel, the place should aspire. BT

LESSON FOR SEPTEMBER 23, 2012 | 27 Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22

with Tony W. Cartledge

Sept. 30, 2012 A Winning Woman

ur month-long study of “wise women” concludes with Esther, Oa Jewish heroine of the post- exilic period. Like the woman in Song of Songs 2:8-15, Esther was beautiful and charming. Like the Noble Wife of Proverbs 31, she was careful and calculating. She knew how to do what needed to be done – nothing less than saving the lives of every Jew in Persia. How wise is that?

Esther’s predicament The short Book of Esther appears in the Hebrew Bible as one of five books called the Megillot, or “Scrolls,” each was enraged, and with his counselors’ because he refused to bow and scrape in of which was read in conjunction with advice, he banished her. Haman’s presence (3:1-5). a major Jewish feast. Esther is read dur- To find a new queen, young The infuriated Haman persuaded ing the Feast of Purim, for which Esther women throughout the kingdom were the king that all members of “a certain alone offers an explanation. brought to the palace, where they were people” scattered throughout the land The story is set in Persia under elaborately purified and beautified, then were disloyal and should be extermi- a king most English translations call brought to the king for an overnight nated. He chose the 13th of Adar as Ahaseurus, and who is often identified visit. a propitious date for the genocide by as Xerxes I (486-465 BC). The king One of the promising candidates casting lots (purim), and promised to is said to have ruled over lands from was Esther, a young Hebrew who had deliver at least 10,000 talents of silver Egypt to Afghanistan, similar in size to been raised by her uncle Mordecai after to the royal treasury, to be acquired by what we know of the ancient Persian her parents had died. plundering the offensive segment of Empire (1:1). Esther lived up to her name, which the population. The king, apparently With this king, everything is super- meant “star.” Everyone loved her, the without asking who the “certain people” sized. The story claims he threw a text says, from the eunuchs in charge were, affirmed a public proclamation to banquet for his nobles that lasted for of the harem to the other women. The that effect (3:7-11). 180 days! Then, he reportedly gave a king loved her as well, and was so When he learned of the plot, seven-day banquet for ordinary men, pleased after his night with Esther that Mordecai pleaded with Esther to inter- while Queen Vashti hosted a weeklong he declared she would be his new queen cede with the king. She was hesitant at banquet for women (1:2-9). (2:15-17), not realizing she was Jewish first, aware of the danger to anyone who Near the end of the banquet, the (Mordecai had advised her to keep it a approached him unannounced. story says, the drunken king called for secret, 2:20). In the most memorable line from Queen Vashti to come out so all could Mordecai, a palace official, was the book, Mordecai suggested there was admire her beauty, but Vashti refused known as a Jew, but had served the king a deeper plan behind her phenomenal to put herself on display. The king faithfully and had once saved his life by rise: help might come “from another uncovering an assassination plot (2:21- quarter,” but perhaps Esther was Additional background information 23). This put Mordecai in good standing brought to royalty “for such a time as online where you see the “Digging with the king, but Haman, the king’s this” (4:14). This is the closest thing to Deeper” icon next highest official, hated Mordecai a mention of God in the Hebrew version

28 | © Nurturing Faith Bible Studies are copyrighted by Baptists Today. DO NOT PHOTOCOPY. Order at: baptiststoday.org Resources to teach adult and youth classes of the book. issued an edict declaring that the feast After fasting for three days, during are available at of Purim should be celebrated on both which the other Jews were also asked to nurturingfaith.net the 14th and 15th of the month of Adar fast, Esther approached the king, who (9:20-22). not only accepted her, but also promised to grant any boon she wanted – up to for her life, and the lives of her people Esther’s aftermath half the kingdom. (7:3). Can Christian believers find anything Rather than simply asking the king The story assumes the king would helpful in the Book of Esther? It’s not to find a way around his proclama- have been puzzled by this and unaware easy. tion – which reportedly could not be that Esther’s life was being threatened. One could argue, perhaps, that a revoked – Esther asked only that the So, she continued: “For we have been reading of the book promotes balanced king and Haman come to a dinner she sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, living, as opposed to the excesses of would prepare. At the dinner, the narra- to be killed, and to be annihilated.” the king and his court, or that it testifies tor tells us, the king renewed his offer, If they had only been sold into slavery, to the power of the written word, with but again Esther requested that the two Esther insisted, she might have held her emphasis on the various edicts issued. men return for another meal the next peace, but if the genocide was carried For greater profit, we have to imag- day (5:1-8). out, “no enemy can compensate for this ine ourselves in the place of the Jewish damage to the king” (7:4). people for whom the book was writ- Esther’s plan When Esther fingered Haman as a ten. While we have little interest in the (7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22) wicked “foe and enemy” (7:5-6), the rationale for dating the Feast of Purim, The plot now moves quickly. Haman king went into a rage and left the room, other aspects of the story may be more was so elated by the honor that he was while Haman quailed in fear and fell meaningful. fit to burst, but when Mordecai again upon Esther to beg for mercy. When The Jewish people, who have con- refused to bow, he became furious and the king returned and saw Haman fawn- tinued to be persecuted through the ordered that a 50-foot gallows be built ing at Esther’s knees, he accused him years, may find in Esther a continued for Mordecai’s execution. of trying to accost the queen and grew promise of hope for difficult times. Meanwhile, the king had insom- even more incensed. Although there is no direct correlation nia, and called for someone to read The king soon ordered that Haman to the kind of threat faced by Esther and court records to him. When the records be hanged on the very gallows he had her people, we know that we all face reminded him of how Mordecai had constructed for Mordecai (7:9-10), difficult and trying days. In that generic saved his life, the king realized he had then gave Haman’s house to Esther and sense, readers may find encouragement failed to reward Mordecai. Haman’s position and signet ring to in Esther’s perseverance through trou- A large dose of Hebrew humor Mordecai (8:1-2). bled times. enters the story as the king asked Though the reader may feel We may also find inspiration in Haman for advice on how to honor a relieved, the story is not over nor the Esther’s careful planning. The story favorite of the king. Assuming he was danger ended, for the king’s edict that portrays her as living in a delicate the honoree, Haman said the king’s the Jews be killed on the 13th of Adar balance, having to walk a fine line in robes and crown should be put on the could not be changed. At Esther’s dealing with the king. In that sense, man, he should be seated on the king’s urging, the king issued another edict Esther’s example blends with our horse, and one of the king’s highest allowing the Jews to defend them- month-long introduction to wise women officials should lead him through the selves. The Hebrews then prepared for of the Old Testament. Esther’s ability streets shouting “Thus it shall be done the attack, and on the appointed day to develop a plan and finesse its success for he who pleases the king!” (6:4-9). the Hebrews became the aggressors, may speak to our own need for giving To his chagrin, Haman was then reportedly killing 75,000 persons in the careful thought to our relationships with instructed to go out and do that very provinces (9:16) and another 800 in the others. thing for the despised Mordecai. He capital, where Esther gained permission Additionally, we may take heart returned home in shame and was for fighting to continue a second day. in Esther’s courage. Convinced by berated by his wife before being sum- So, the story says, the Jews in the Mordecai that she had the ability to moned to the second dinner with Esther. countryside won relief on the 13th of save her people, Esther was willing to Finally, the moment of truth Adar and celebrated on the 14th, while do what needed to be done, even at con- arrived. As the king repeated his offer Jews in Susa took their vengeance on siderable risk. If we don’t recognize the to give her up to half the kingdom (7:2), the 13th and 14th, not stopping to feast risks inherent in truly following Jesus, Esther asked for something more impor- and celebrate until the 15th. It is for perhaps we haven’t been following tant than material things: she asked this reason, the text says, that Mordecai closely enough. BT

LESSON FOR SEPTEMBER 30, 2012 | 29 Adventures with Luler Kelly Belcher the Hound The Bow-Wow aptists have two special times in worship that are called Luler says we share Christ’s ordinances. “Ordain” means “set apart for a special purpose,” love and our love for one and these two ordinances are actions we do that are sym- another with this special meal. bols for our love of God. One is baptism, and the other is Remember the two ordinances! B the Lord’s Supper, also called Communion. Watch your church members as they serve and take Communion. We honor our belief in the priesthood of believers by serv- ing one another. Each person serves the next person, ministering to her. We also honor our identity as the body of Christ by eating and drinking at the same time. You don’t just take the bread piece and eat it up. (Well, Luler might do that because she can’t wait!) Baptists hold the piece of bread until everyone is served. We also hold the cup of juice until everyone is ready to drink together. Notice the words that are said as we eat and drink this special meal. We remember Jesus until he comes again. We are hoping that, as we eat and drink, Christ’s spirit is coming again into the heart of every person.

The Question Box Ask grown-ups in your church to tell you about the first time they ever received the Lord’s Supper. Have you received it?

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More Online: Jump online at nurturingfaith.net to discover weekly ideas for children’s leaders.

30 | Children !"#$% &'( )*#"#! +% "#'% ,&$"-.(/., Contributing Editor BWA aims to increase participation

Scenic Santiago, Chile, in the shadow of the Andes, was the setting for this year’s Annual Gathering of the Baptist World Alliance. Below: Membership committee chair Jonathan Edwards of England (left) and president John Upton (right) welcome representatives from the Reformed Baptist Convention of Rwanda into the Baptist World Alliance.

ANTIAGO, CHILE — Participation in and an affirmation of religious liberty that the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) should recalls the 400th anniversary of Thomas Sbe back on the upswing following actions Helwys’ tract A Short Declaration of the Mystery of taken by the organization’s General Council Iniquity, widely regarded as the first document during its annual gathering July 2-7. About 300 to call for complete religious liberty. global delegates convened in Santiago, where A resolution on global missions celebrated Chilean Baptists treated them to an evening of the 200th anniversary of the pioneering work in entertainment and worship July 2. Asia by Adoniram and Anne Hasseltine Judson Following several days of administrative and Luther Rice, along with others who followed, committee and ministry commission meetings, while the fourth resolution called for the BWA the General Council voted July 7 to take steps to endorse a guide for missionary behavior called to involve more persons in the global body’s contribute financially to the organization, even “Christian Witness in a Multi-Religious World.” work. In earlier comments, General Secretary if it is a small amount. The suggestion was later The document has previously been endorsed Neville Callam noted a decline in participation affirmed by the Council. by the World Evangelical Alliance, the World due to changes implemented in 2009 at the rec- Two new bodies were added to the more Council of Churches, and the Catholic Church. ommendation of an appointed task force. than 220 member unions already participat- A fifth resolution built on previous While the task force made some important ing in BWA. These were the Reformed Baptist resolutions in 2008 and 2009 by challenging contributions, Callam said, changes made in the Convention of Rwanda, with 12,000 members, Baptists worldwide to express concern about name of efficiency had left many persons feeling and the Free Baptist Churches of Burundi, with global climate change, and to urge governments, excluded from the BWA’s work. Callam called 8,000 members. multi-national corporations, and other entities for several changes, including the reinstatement Council members adopted a 2013 budget to work toward reducing the impact of climate of the body’s 12 vice-presidents to the Executive of $1,582,050, slightly less than the 2012 bud- change. Committee and the inclusion of more persons get of $1,651,350, but still higher than 2011 A final resolution decried recent violence on the various commissions. The Constitution income of $1,388,118. in Nigeria, calling for Baptists to pray for the and Bylaws Committee made recommendations Edgar Palacios of El Salvador and people there who face religious conflict, and to to that end, which were approved. Washington, D.C. was presented the Denton advocate for peace. Callam also expressed concern that 69 and Janice Lotz Human Rights Award for 2012, The 2013 Annual Gathering of the BWA percent of the BWA’s member bodies made based primarily on his work in helping to bro- will be held July 1-6, 2013, in Ocho Rios, no direct financial contribution to BWA work ker peace during El Salvador’s 1980-92 civil war. Jamaica. Leaders urged participants to begin in 2011. Callam suggested that, as an incen- The Council approved six resolutions, planning for the next World Congress, to be held tive, travel scholarships for entity leaders from including a statement of appreciation for July 22-26, 2015 in Durban, South Africa — the poor countries be limited to those bodies that African-Amercan preacher Gardner C. Taylor, first World Congress to be held in Africa. BT

Information | 31 Classifieds In the Know

Pastor: Lawtonville Baptist Church of Estill, Minister of Music and Youth and/or Carlos Malave is executive director S.C., is prayerfully seeking a full-time pastor. This Children: First Baptist Church Hawkinsville, of Christian Churches Together in the position consists of a salary, benefits and a par- Ga., is seeking a person who would have dual USA, a 10-year-old network aimed at sonage. Our 200-year-old, non-affiliated church ministerial staffing responsibilities. This minister promoting interchurch collaboration. consists of more than 100 members and has a will work with music and worship leadership For 11 years he worked in ecumenical strong children- and youth-oriented ministry. along with a specific age group. Send résumés relations for the Presbyterian Church Please send résumés to Laurie Hanna, P.O. Box to Search Committee, First Baptist Church, (USA). CCT is a network of more 1096, Estill, S.C. 29918. P.O. Box 210, Hawkinsville, GA 31036 or to [email protected]. than 40 churches and Christian groups — including those from Catholic, Pastor: First Baptist Church of Claxton, Ga., is evangelical Protestant, historic black, seeking a full-time pastor with five or more years Minister to Students and Families: historic Protestant and Orthodox tra- of ministry experience in a pastoral position Boulevard Baptist Church in Anderson, S.C., is ditions — that is addressing racism, and who holds a master’s or doctorate degree. seeking a full-time minister to students and fami- poverty, evangelism and immigration. The ideal candidate should be an effective com- lies. Boulevard is a progressive Baptist church municator with leadership and well-developed affiliated with the CBF and affirms women in Aubrey L. Hawkins of Roswell, Ga., vision for the future of our church. First Baptist ministry and all positions of leadership. The died June 22 at age 93. Before retire- Claxton has a membership of 300 and is located candidate should be a graduate of a seminary or in southeast Georgia, 50 miles west of Savannah. divinity school and have a strong sense of call- ment, he had been a longtime employee Interested candidates should submit résumés to ing to work with children and youth. A ministry of the Georgia Baptist Convention and [email protected] or to Pastor Search description can be found at boulevardbaptist. spent much of his career overseeing the Committee, First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 607, com. Submit résumés to jmckinney@boulevard- work of campus ministries and Baptist Claxton, GA 30417. baptist.com. colleges across the state.

Bill Tillman has retired as the T.B. Associate Pastor: First Baptist Church of CBFSC Coordinator: Applications and nomi- Maston Chair of Christian Ethics Augusta, Ga., is seeking to fill the position of nations are being accepted until Sept. 15 for the at Hardin-Simmons University in associate pastor who will work with the senior position of coordinator of the Cooperative Baptist pastor in the following capacities: providing min- Fellowship of South Carolina. The coordinator Abilene, Texas. isterial staff leadership; teaching and preaching; will give leadership to organizing, facilitating and coordinating the ministry calendar; and provid- coordinating CBFSC to fulfill its vision of grow- ing pastoral care leadership. At a minimum, ing as a community of grace on a shared spiritual Help your church come together around qualified candidates must possess a master’s journey that connects people to Christ and one the Bible! Gather ‘Round: Hearing and degree from an accredited seminary and 5 years another. The coordinator will also serve as a cata- Sharing God’s Good News is the Bible of ministry experience. For a complete job lyst to nurture spiritual development, encourage story-based curriculum that connects description or to submit a résumé, please contact congregations to thrive, and value collaborative church and home. Gather ‘Round nurtures [email protected]. and innovative ministry and missions. Inquiries, children, youth and their families in becom- applications or nominations for the position may ing followers of Jesus — exploring their Minister of Music and Worship: South Main be sent to [email protected] or to CBFSC Baptist Church, Houston, Texas, seeks a full- Search Committee, Attn: Casey Callahan, 397 faith and putting it into action. Find sample time minister of music and worship to oversee College Ave., Clemson, SC 29631. sessions, Bible outlines and more at gather- an extensive music ministry, assist with worship round.org. Order a free preview pack today! planning, and serve as a part of a vibrant, col- legial pastoral team. Among other things, the successful candidate will have a minister’s heart; Advertise with Baptists Today Print OR Web an earned graduate degree in music from an Classified Ads accredited school; a passion for music education; Ad Size/Inches Horiz. Vert. Price (1 month) and prior experience as a choral and instrumental conductor, including arranging music for choirs, ensembles, and instruments and overseeing a comprehensive music program from preschoolers through senior adults. Founded in 1903, South Web Display Ads Main today is a growing, multi-generational (1 week) church with a 15-acre campus located in midtown Houston, between the world’s largest medical center and the downtown business district of the nation’s fourth largest city. Our congregation, which averages 525 in Sunday School and 600 in worship, values musical excellence, and our Sunday worship services draw from traditional Baptist, classical, and broader liturgical streams. Please send résumés to [email protected].

32 | Information The Lighter Side By Brett Younger Willie Nelson on my mind

Georgians do not get Willie Nelson. stand “against evil forces.” “Georgia on My Mind,” “Always The crowd at his concert in Atlanta on My Mind,” and “Crazy” (the greatest made me miss Texas. There may jukebox song of all time) are about broken hearts, but like every great country song have been five of the cowboy hats they hold out a hint of hope. that a reasonable person would “Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground” is redemption: “If you had not expect to see, and there were at fallen, then I would not have found you … least a thousand baseball caps. love’s the greatest healer to be found.” In the closing salvation section Willie ore people wore flip flops than Photo credit: Broadway.tv promised: cowboy boots, and most of the Mboots were worn by teenage girls “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Hymns of faith that made us strong … in shorts. Die” for instance, cannot be sung in every Hear the angels sing along … The coolers were filled with pasta church.The legalization of marijuana is There’s a better home a-waiting salad. Where was the barbecue? Far more not an issue on which Willie can count on In the sky, Lord, in the sky. concert-goers drank from wine glasses than church support. Some might argue that beer bottles. he started down the wrong road when he Willie assured us: The crowd only knew the most popu- dropped out of Baylor University in 1956, lar lines. They excitedly shouted, “Mamas but they would be wrong. Some glad morning when this life is o’er, don’t let your babies grow up to be cow- Willie defends family farmers and the I’ll fly away boys,” but mumbled through “they’re environment. He speaks out on issues of To a home on God’s celestial shore … always alone even with someone they love.” war and peace. He sings about heartache (The bearded bald guy in bifocals next to and hope. Willie’s themes are despair and In the finale Willie sang: me knew the songs, but he was wearing a faith, brokenness and healing, death and Bon Jovi T-shirt, so he doesn’t count.) life. Our concert went from sin to salvation. I wandered so aimless, life filled with sin. A senior citizen complained that it The sin portion began with “Whiskey I wouldn’t let my dear Savior in. was so loud we might be bothering the River,” which is about “feeling the amber Then Jesus came like a stranger in the night. neighbors. No one in Austin, Fort Worth or current flowin’” but also a prayer to “warm Praise the Lord, I saw the light. Luckenbach ever made such a comment. an empty heart.” Half the crowd could have been there “Good-Hearted Woman” portrays “the During “Amazing Grace,” Jimmy for Britney Spears and the other half for night life, the bright lights and good timin’ Carter came on stage and, to the biggest Tony Bennett. It had to be the only com- friends,” but laments the “dreams that fell ovation of the night, put on a bandana. pletely white crowd in Atlanta that was not by the way.” Years of teaching the Bible must have made in church. “Seven Spanish Angels” is about a it clear to the former president that the Some ministers are reticent to admit shoot-’em-up, but the eighth angel whis- Gospel shows up in amphitheaters as well their love for Willie Hugh Nelson, but pers “God will keep us free.” as sanctuaries.Some people think that the Willie is the only artist born the same year I wish “Me and Paul” was about St. only place to hear of God’s grace is inside as my father that my son is willing to hear. Paul, but it is, unfortunately, about getting the church. They need to listen to Willie There are legitimate concerns about ador- busted. Nelson. BT ing Willie. My mother would not care for “All He has been arrested almost as many the Girls I’ve Loved Before” or “I Gotta —Brett Younger is the associate professor of times (three we know about) as he’s been Get Drunk and I Sure Do Dread It.” Mom preaching at the McAfee School of Theology married (four). He’s had difficult conver- would definitely have problems with “Beer in Atlanta and the author of The Lighter sations with the IRS. Some of his songs, for My Horses,” even though it is a call to Side: Serving Up Life’s Lessons with a Smile.

Perspective | 33 “Worship planning hemmed in by perceived congregational expectation is tantamount to a pitcher ‘aiming’ his pitches, instead of simply trusting his eye and his arm; the result in both cases is mediocre and tentative.” Pastoral perspectives

HAPEL HILL, N.C. — Since the sum- aspiring to pastoral ministry be given to precisely mer of 1990, Mitchell Simpson has From Mitchell that lovely imbalance. Cserved as pastor of University Baptist Simpson As to accessibility to the congregation, Elton Church in Chapel Hill. He is a graduate of the Trueblood’s warning still holds true: That person nearby University of North Carolina. He did Pastor, University Baptist Church who is always available has nothing worth hear- graduate studies at Duke Divinity School and in Chapel Hill, N.C. ing when he/she is available. Without personal Florida State University where he earned his time and study, as an adjunct to family time, little doctorate. worthwhile will be forthcoming from the pulpit. the concentrated effort it requires. BT: How would you briefly describe BT: Every church member knows Carlyle Marney, Clarence Jordan, James your leadership style as a pastor? exactly the right time for scheduling Dunn, Flannery O’Connor, my preacher father worship and the proper format of the and my reading mother — these were among my MS: My leadership style is collegial, relational. service. The problem, of course, is that best guides along the way. It seems to me that is the way Jesus went about these are as different as the people. Our congregation, with its mixed lineage of it. I have a strong aversion to the CEO business How do you, as a pastoral leader, plan religious leanings, is nonetheless always respon- model of pastor/church. worship with such varied expectations? sive when we offer studies in what it means to be BT: Can you identify a couple of the MS: Liturgically informed give-and-take, authentically Baptist, for biggest challenges in pastoral ministry employing (but not slavishly) the lectionary which identity we feel no today and share how you and your con- and premised upon the notion that our task as need to make apologies gregation are facing them? preachers is not so much to interpret scripture as in our upscale university to allow scripture to interpret us, then inviting community. MS: Scattered, distracted parishioners with the congregation to eavesdrop on that conversa- We value the diminished ability to pay attention or endure tion between proclaimer and creator — such is Cooperative Baptist quiet or mystery. Blaise Pascal was right: The the stuff of credible worship preparation. Fellowship, Alliance of chief ills of our culture can be traced to our Clarence Jordan’s wisdom endures: Faith is Baptists, Baptist World Alliance and especially inability to sit for 30 minutes, alone and silent, in a life lived in scorn of the consequences. Worship our covenant sister-church relationship with the our room. planning hemmed in by perceived congregational predominately African American First Baptist Entertainment worship is pandemic. At expectation is tantamount to a pitcher “aiming” Church of Chapel Hill. UBC, we work at worship that is both dignified his pitches, instead of simply trusting his eye and and warm-spirited, concerned less with a particu- his arm; the result in both cases is mediocre and BT: How do you keep a balanced life lar style than with the importance of whatever tentative. we offer being of high quality, whether English that allows for personal time and hymnody or bluegrass settings of the Psalms. study while being accessible to your BT: What keeps you coming back for congregation? more? BT: What do you know now that you wish you had known earlier as a pastor? MS: I don’t try to keep a balanced life. My wife MS: O’Connor’s great and damned soul, Hazel and our three children (now ages 24, 22 and 19) Moats, from her novella Wise Blood, says it for me MS: The importance of building a backyard are the delight of my life and, second only to in describing Jesus: “That raggedy figure that lurks shed. Jesus of Nazareth, the center of my being. from tree to tree a-chasing me, and won’t let me In my study there is taped on the bookcase, go.” God’s pursuing love — pure and simple. BT BT: Are denominational identity and where I cannot help but see it every day, a picture engagement important to you? To your I clipped from a pastor’s magazine years ago. EDITOR’S NOTE: congregation? How do you engage with It is the silhouette snapshot of a man holding In this series, experienced pastors are asked other churches — and what value does the hand of a young child as they walk along the same seven questions about the important that bring? a lakeshore, the evening sun reflecting around and sometimes misunderstood work they provide in congregational leadership and care. them, with this caption: “When the sun sets on The monthly feature is designed to help pas- MS: Not so much, but reclaiming the bracing your ministry, your greatest heritage will be your tors learn from one another and to give others impudence and fierce integrity of our English family.” greater insight into the multi-faceted work of Baptist forebears (on their best days) is worth all Amen to that, and may every person pastors in changing times.

34 | Feature +% 453+.$-% 65'!"#', Religion News Service

Tax exemption for religious groups faces challenge

ow much money does the U.S. gov- ernment forgo by not taxing religious Hinstitutions? According to a University of Tampa professor, perhaps as much as $71 billion a year. Ryan Cragun, an assistant professor of sociology, and two students examined U.S. tax laws to estimate the total cost of tax exemp- tions for religious institutions — on property, donations, business enterprises, capital gains and “parsonage allowances,” which permit clergy to deduct housing costs. Their article appears in Free Inquiry maga- zine, published by the Council for Secular Humanism, an organization of nontheists. U.S. tax law grants religious groups and other nonprofits the exemptions because of their charitable nature. And while the authors do not claim theirs is a comprehensive or unbiased appraisal, their findings have raised eyebrows in the nontheist Cragun and his co-authors — Stephanie violate the Constitution’s Establishment Clause community, which has long sought to elimi- Yeager and Desmond Vega — examined federal because they did not favor one religion over nate the tax exemptions on the grounds that tax exemption laws, and some state and local another. they unfairly favor religious institutions. laws, specifically in their home state of Florida. But in 1988, the Supreme Court rejected “The issue of religious tax preferment is They conclude: a Texas state sales tax that exempted religious especially relevant now because the number of publications. Americans living outside any religious tradition year by not requiring religious institutions to Other challenges have had little impact. continues to grow,” said Tom Flynn, editor of pay property taxes. The Freedom From Religion Foundation has Free Inquiry. “That underscores the unfairness twice challenged the parsonage allowance, so of taxing all Americans to subsidize religious institutions may be as much as $41 million far to no avail. FFRF also supported a 1996 institutions that only some Americans utilize.” a year. Colorado ballot initiative to repeal tax exemp- But Mark Rienzi, senior counsel at the - tions for nonprofits, including religious ones. Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, said that lion in tax exemptions annually via the It was defeated by a margin of 60 percent. Americans have made a democratic decision parsonage allowance. Sarah Barringer Gordon, a professor that religious institutions are good for our But Cragun, who specializes in the socio- of constitutional law at the University of communities — believers and atheists alike. logical study of religion, said the article is not a Pennsylvania, says religious-based tax exemp- “Whether it is the Quakers opposing call to completely revoke the tax-exempt status tions date to the late 19th century and have slavery, Reverend King arguing for equality, or of religious organizations. Rather, he would always been controversial. a Catholic soup kitchen feeding and sheltering suggest tax exemptions only for nonprofit “People say we have always had these tax all in need,” Rienzi said, “our history is full of organizations — religious or secular — whose exemptions, but that is not true,” she said. She examples confirming the great public benefit of services the government would have to supply notes presidents James Madison and Ulysses S. our religious diversity.” if those organizations disappeared. Grant both opposed tax exemptions for religious If history is a guide, the Free Inquiry arti- “It makes little sense for a group like the groups. cle and any call for tax reform it may engender Red Cross to pay taxes because what they are Part of the problem is the complexity of are not likely to have much effect. Since the doing is truly a benefit to all society,” he said. tax laws, which vary by state and municipality. 1950s, there have been several attempts to “But if we took religious organizations away, Another complicating factor is determining quantify religious tax exemption and only a would the government say ‘We really need who owns what, as many religious groups handful of legal challenges to those exemp- religious-based charity, so we are going to step own things under different names. Gordon, tions. Most were unsuccessful. in.’ I don’t think they would.” who is at work on a book about the history “It is something lots of people have been Challenges by nontheists to religious of tax exemptions for religious institutions, against, but not very much has been done about tax exemptions have gained little. In 1969, once tried to tally Catholic Church property in it,” Flynn said. “Coming up with hard numbers the Supreme Court ruled in Walz v. Tax Philadelphia. has been so difficult. But if there are going to be Commission of the City of New York that tax “I had to stop at 129 names” under which good discussions about this, we need good data.” exemptions for religious organizations did not the church had holdings, she said. BT

Information | 35 +% +$7,. /#7$-.%, Online Editor In their own words

AND THE AMERICAN

he spirits of the Confederacy are running high. Richmond, the Confederate capi- Ttal, is safe. Generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson are outfoxing their northern counterparts. Conscription is swelling the ranks of the Confederate army. Inflation is a problem, but politicians, preachers, writers, and the slaveholding elite are proclaiming the gospel of self-sufficiency, insisting that the South can endure long enough to tire the northern public of the war and turn the “Stockaded Fort at Hilton Head, S. Carolina.” North against its tyrannical “black president” (Abraham Lincoln). Northward, Washington D.C. is wary of a possible Confederate offensive. The public patience is wearing thin for want of battlefield successes. In addition, many northerners are upset over Lincoln’s reticence in emancipating African slaves. Although he knows that freeing the slaves is the key to victory, and is longing 150 years ago and baptized since our advent among to announce his emancipation plan (but wait- them. Abraham Murchison, a colored ing for the most opportune moment), Lincoln’s ! man in the employ of the Chief Quarter- public response this month is: “If I could save August 1862 master, has been selected as the minister the Union without freeing any slave I would do to these people, and was duly installed as it, and if I could do so by freeing all the slaves I headquarters for the South Atlantic Blockading their pastor on the Sabbath before last. would do it.” Squadron, overseeing the blockade of Savannah. The following was the order of exercises: Baptists, meanwhile, struggle to keep Whereas the town’s former millionaires made Ordination Sermon — Chaplain H. S. their focus on missions in the midst of the war. their fortunes in cotton from the forced labor of Wayland, 7th Conneticut Volunteers; Especially in the Southern states, the number slaves, the Union blockade of the Southern coast charge to candidate — Chaplain W.C. of active pastors and missionaries, as well as has made cotton worthless. Meanwhile, under Patterson, 1st Massachusetts cavalry; baptisms, has plunged since the beginning of the Union policy of seizing “contraband” (a ordination prayer and right-hand of the great conflict. A statement from Kentucky’s United States military term referring to slaves) fellowship — Chaplain H. Hovey, Campbell County Association of Baptists of southerners who oppose the North, Africans Volunteer Engineers; charge to the reflects a common lamentation among many on the island are now freemen, with many church — Chaplain Whitehead, 97th Baptists of the South: former slaves serving as the first black Union Pennsylvania Volunteers. troops. …. the idea that a financial crisis or Against this backdrop, the first African The African Baptists of Hilton Head are national troubles should be an excuse for Baptist Church of Hilton Head is established merely one example of former slaves translat- Christians not endeavoring to have the on August 17. The New South Newspaper, a ing their newfound freedom into religious gospel preached is too glaring an absur- local Union-published paper, reports on the autonomy, and by so doing acting — to dity to be entertained for one moment. “organization of the First Baptist Church of the horror of their former owners — upon Hilton Head, and the ordination of its pastor”: Baptists’ overarching founding principles: Yet, the Kingdom of God is expanding in ways freedom of conscience and voluntary faith. anew, enabled by the slow but steady advance These events occurred on Sunday, The hopes of Baptists of the South, in of the United States military along the south- [August] the 17th instant, and the cere- short, are inherently conflicted. White Baptists ern coastline. monies attending them were conducted in place their hopes of maintaining white suprem- Hilton Head, S.C., now in Union hands, a very impressive manner. The society thus acy in military generals Lee and Jackson, while was one of the wealthiest southern coastal towns established numbers about 120 members, African Baptists know their path to salvation prior to the war. Previously home to several mil- all of whom are contrabands. Of these is through the military might of the North. lionaires (most millionaires in the United States nearly 70 were professing Christians Not only are the prayers of North and South at before the war were large Southern planters) in under the rule of their late masters, odds with one another, but the prayers of the one of the South’s richest states, Hilton Head is while the others have been converted South itself are irreconcilable. BT

36 | Feature +% ,*$5! -5!.., Religion News Service Starting point Evangelical group proposes code of ethics for pastors

WASHINGTON — The National guidelines that often go unspoken. Specifics Rodriguez lauded the code for holding include, among other things, sexual “purity,” leaders to a higher standard in a world he says is Association of Evangelicals is urging regular financial auditing, not recruiting mem- saturated in materialism and moral relativism. pastors to seek a common moral bers from a pastor’s former congregation, and “You would assume that Christian leaders, counseling ethics. of course, would embody the idea of integrity ground by uniting under a consis- Seven in 10 evangelical leaders are not and purity and accountability. This code of tent code of ethics. required by their congregations to sign a for- ethics is a call to affirm standards to not only mal code of ethics, according to a recent NAE live a life above reproach, but to really apply to AE leaders said the new code will survey. Signing the code will not be required higher standards than what society today will provide uniform guidance to church for NAE membership, but NAE President deem appropriate,” he said. Nleaders across the 40 denominations that Leith Anderson said it offers a tool for denomi- Early on, the code received support from comprise the nation’s largest evangelical group. nations to secure moral leadership. prominent evangelical leaders. Signatories The new code is a good starting point The code was compiled by a team of include Rodriguez; Bishop Charles Blake, pas- for ministers in a profession that can be indi- ethicists, pastors and denominational leaders tor of West Angeles Church of God in Christ vidualistic and entrepreneurial, said David P. working over an 18-month span. “It’s like writ- in Los Angeles; megachurch pioneer Bill Gushee, a professor of Christian ethics and ing a book,” Anderson said. “It’s a lot of work Hybels; and The Purpose Driven Life author and director of the Center for Theology and Public to get things correct.” megachurch pastor Rick Warren. Life at Mercer University. Issued in English and Spanish, the code Gushee said the next step is to move from “In some ways it’s the Wild West out covers issues ranging from sexual behavior to a broad framework of principles to specific there in terms of the context of preparation resource management and financial integrity to behavioral guidelines, such as budget oversight for ministry in the evangelical world,” he said. physical health. and counseling practices. He said these might “Any effort to raise the moral bar and establish “It’s setting an example, it’s lifting the bar, best be instituted by individual churches. a minimal set of expectations for clergy — or and it’s calling pastors to meet a standard,” said Anderson said the NAE has already any profession — is a very good thing.” Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National begun its next project — a code of ethics for The code puts into writing ethical Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference. churches. BT

Vatican blames lack of priests on secularism, abuse, parents celibacy.” VATICAN CITY (RNS) — The sexual abuse scandal has tarnished the image The guidelines acknowledge that of the priest and contributed to a crisis of priestly vocations in the Roman “in many places the choice of celibacy is questioned” and say that such “erroneous Catholic Church, the Vatican said in June, while also faulting a widespread opinions within the church” are responsible for a “lack of appreciation” for those who “secularized mentality” and parents’ ambition for their children, which make the choice to remain celibate. leaves “little space to the possibility of a call to a special vocation.” In fact, Western culture, with its “indif- ference to the Christian faith,” is “unable to The “Pastoral Guidelines for Fostering understand the value of vocations to a special Vocations to Priestly Ministry” were prepared consecration.” over the last seven years by the Vatican’s Data presented by the congregation’s Congregation for Catholic Education. undersecretary, Angelo Vincenzo Zani, show The document says candidates to the that priestly vocations over the last 10 years priesthood shouldn’t be accepted if they fell sharply in Europe. They remained stable show “signs of being profoundly fragile per- in North and South America and rose sig- sonalities,” and says future priests should nificantly in Asia and Africa, though still learn the “importance” of their future com- not enough to offset the rapid growth in mitments, “in particular with regard to Catholics’ numbers worldwide.

Information | 37 Editor’s note: This article in the series “Transitions: Helping churches and church leaders in changing times” is provided by the Center for Congregational Health (healthychurch.org) based in Winston-Salem, N.C. Communication involves shared understanding of a group

By Mark Borchert

ne day I made a research visit to two Church leaders, however, tend to think “the possession of a common faith.” nearby churches that taught me one of about communication differently. Rather than Communication involves the shared Othe most important lessons in church focusing on identity, church communication is understanding of a group. This alternative communication. often approached as the sending and receiving understanding of communication focuses atten- In the morning I visited a Baptist church of information. tion on the issue of identity. Communication that had grown rapidly over the past decade, Staff members ask what information needs questions no longer center on imparting infor- adding new members and outgrowing its previ- to go out in the newsletter or announcements. mation but on representing the core values, ous downtown location. The church relocated Does the church need to purchase newspaper beliefs and behaviors of the group. to a new campus and built beautiful new multi- advertisements or radio This identity-oriented view of communica- million-dollar facilities. and television spots to tion can completely change the way churches One of the church programs that the staff communicate an event? approach the process. Seen in a new light, com- highlighted caught my attention. With mounts Perhaps billboards or munication is not only about transmitting a of deer, elk and bear decorating the fellowship social media are ideal message across space but also is characterized by hall, the church invited the community to a ways to inform people. sustaining values through time. “wild game supper.” It is almost second In communication a group creates a cul- Church members and staff donned camou- nature to think about ture, building a sense of shared mission and flage to serve venison, trout and wild turkey to communication as community. This approach clarifies a number of community members, and a speaker related his conveying information church communication principles: hunting exploits to the gospel message. Outdoor to people inside and outside the walls of the enthusiasts, including many visitors, packed church. This perspective on communication into the church’s new facilities for this special seems obvious. by merely applying what has worked at one church event. Communication, of course, is convey- church to another congregation. That afternoon I visited another Baptist ing information. Ideas travel through various congregation that also had experienced unprec- channels to impact the lives of the receivers. identity and context of an individual church. edented growth. It, too, relocated to a new Communication is extending messages across campus and built new facilities. In discussing geographic space. We send email and letters; we every aspect of church life, including wor- church programming, the ministerial staff post blogs and updates, and we make calls in an ship services and events, facilities and decor, shared with me photographs of one of their effort to get out the word. promotional material and websites, and the most recent and significant outreach events. In his seminal collection of essays, stories that members tell about their church. This event involved sacred dance. The pho- Communication as Culture, scholar James Carey tographs showed ballet dancers interpreting the describes this information-oriented approach a church, not merely the church staff. gospel message to an overflow crowd. Dramatic as dominating American thinking and research lighting and music, even a smoke machine, were about communication. This model of commu- values and stories rather than only on convey- used to enhance this graceful retelling of Christ’s nication focuses attention on “transmitting,” ing information. story through dance. “sending” or “imparting” information often for Here were two churches, both experi- the purpose of control. God is at work, shaping the story of each encing growth, and yet in key events they Carey also offers an alternative approach to individual congregation. In church communica- communicated their faith in radically different understanding communication, a model rooted tion, congregations are God’s partners in this ways. In one brief day, visiting two neighbor- in a more ancient concept, but one very familiar storytelling process. BT ing churches, I could not possibly overlook the to Christians. From this alternate vantage point, unique character of individual congregations. communication is linked with the ideas of “com- —Mark Borchert is an associate professor and It is clear to me that the most important monness,” “communion” and “community.” chair of the communications department at step in effective church communication is In contrast to a “transmission view,” Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tenn. first to understand the distinct identity of a this perspective connects communication with His forthcoming book is titled Communicating congregation. “sharing,” “participation,” “fellowship” and Church.

38 | Perspective !"#$% &'( )*#"#! +% 8#*' )5.$,. Generosity multiplied Gift for church activities building keeps on giving

ATLANTA — An anonymous gift of $270,000 was offered to Wieuca Road Baptist Church in 1967 to build and equip a new facility for recreation minis- try — and to provide a couple of college scholarships. The donor, who chose to Pastor Mark Wilbanks stands outside the J. Robert Ward Activities Building of Wieuca Road Baptist remain anonymous, approached the late Church in Atlanta. The building — provided by an anonymous gift that keeps growing — was erected in 1968 when Mark’s father served on the church staff. Oliver Wilbanks, who was serving as associate pastor at the time. Wieuca had asked that it be named for the As their gifts have been multiplied, the director of the recreation programs at Second- donors have always stayed in the background, his Christian businessman, who was Ponce during that era. It was a good choice, said Wilbanks. But they have visited each of not a Baptist, had been pleased with the said Wilbanks. the churches — quietly and supportively. Tpositive impact the expansive youth and “Bobby Ward was known as a really good “It was a way for him to say thanks,” he activities ministries of Second-Ponce de Leon basketball coach,” said Wilbanks, recalling pil- said of the businessman who initiated the gift Baptist Church, just a couple of miles down ing into a van with his youthful teammates to that has helped three congregations — and still Atlanta’s fabled Peachtree, had made on his take on teams near and far. counting — to expand their ministries. “You’d children. So he wanted to see such ministries The gift to Wieuca came with three stipu- like to think this is the way churches would available at another church — and perhaps lations. First, an activities building would be partner with each other.” another. built with all new equipment and adequate His is more than a detached, professional Bill Self, Wieuca’s pastor at time, said the staff. The donor even asked that the building perspective. The gift has had a personal impact gift sounded too good to be true. It took the have its own custodian. on Wilbanks — who participated in the rec- congregation two business meetings to accept it. Second, some funds would provide college reation ministries, received the first J. Robert “You can’t believe someone would give scholarships to deserving persons identified Ward scholarship from Wieuca, worked in the you an activities building,” said Self of the through the recreation ministries. activities building, and is now pastor of the con- surprise, anonymous gift. Third, the church would some day seek to gregation where he was ordained to ministry. The timing was good, said Self, in that bless another congregation with a similar gift. “It’s a connection of relationships,” said the recreation facility could be built near the “It was a visionary gift,” said Self, of the Wilbanks, who is hopeful that more relation- same time the congregation would erect its anonymous couple’s wish to see Christian ships will result in new opportunities for current sanctuary with the large white steeple recreation ministries expand — and for each ministry as the result of a gift that keeps on seen from all around the shopping and blessed congregation to bless another. giving. BT business district in bustling Buckhead. Wieuca fulfilled its commitment in the Wieuca’s current pastor has little memory mid-1990s. During an effort to renovate of those events 45 years ago — but a close facilities, the congregation raised an additional connection. $250,000 that was given to the First Baptist Mark Wilbanks, son of Oliver and Betty, Church of Grayson, Ga., east of Atlanta, for a played in the same recreation leagues at similar purpose and with the same hope that Second-Ponce as the donors’ sons. His father the gift would grow yet again. had served on the staff at Second-Ponce before It did. In February of this year, the coming to Wieuca. Grayson congregation presented a check for Mark benefited as well from the J. Robert $250,000 to seven-year-old Woodlake Baptist Ward Activities Building, where he worked Church in nearby Walnut Grove, Ga., for the one summer. The couple making the gift to construction of a multi-purpose building.

Feature | 39 !"#$% &'( )*#"#! +% ".$$5 +%$(

ABOVE LEFT: Children from a YMCA summer camp make good use of the Southside Baptist Church gym. Several community organizations are made to feel at home in the congregation’s facilities in downtown Birmingham. ABOVE RIGHT: Cedric Williams (left) and Associate Pastor Tim Kelley (center) are joined by volunteers Rufus, Martha, Shirley and Doris, who staff the congregation’s clothing ministry while caring for one another. Beyond Sundays Congregation lives out commitment to building an inclusive community of grace

IRMINGHAM, Ala. — Just one block Baptist Church congregation, three other the Korean Baptist Congregation, still meets west of historic Five Points South, in congregations worship in the Southside facili- on the fourth floor of Southside’s Jackson Bthe middle of downtown Birmingham, ties and seven non-profit organizations have Education Building. Ala., sits an imposing but beautiful structure office space within the building. Pastor Steve Other organizations, though not based that is Southside Baptist Church. Jones and Kelley have formed close relation- at the church, make use of the facilities for Established soon after the founding of ships with the various congregations that have meetings and other activities. These include Birmingham, Southside has been at the center met there including Temple Emmanuel and Alcoholics Anonymous, choral groups and the of the city’s physical and spiritual community the Korean Baptist Congregation. YMCA. for more than 120 years. The church’s stated Southside has been sharing space mission is “… to build an inclusive community with other congregations and organiza- OVERLAP of grace, first in our own community and then tions on a consistent basis since the late The beauty of this community-oriented church in the world.” 1970s. From its earliest days, the church has is best realized when the congregation and the Commitment to that mission continues to promoted and been involved in missions and community programs overlap. Cedric Williams shape the congregation’s presence in the inner mission education. is a good example. city. This focus led to the formation of and He works with friends in Southside’s long relationship with two international clothes closet ministry several days each week. CHURCH IN COMMUNITY congregations. The first grew out of working He found his way to Southside while staying at “Southside was built from the very begin- with Chinese students at the University of the Salvation Army in downtown Birmingham. ning, intentionally, with the idea of being a Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), a group that “I still get goose bumps when I think church used every day by the community,” said later evolved into the Birmingham Chinese about that first Sunday that I came to Tim Kelley, associate pastor of ministries and Christian Church. Southside Baptist,” said Cedric. “Being an administration. “When our gym was built in This Chinese congregation met at African American man in Alabama and having 1926, practically unheard of at that time, it Southside until 2006 when they moved to a troubled past, I had often experienced rejec- was with the idea of community use in mind.” a location more centrally located to their tion. But on the first day I came to this church, Currently, in addition to the Southside members. The other international church, the people wrapped me up in love.”

40 | Feature In particular, he recalled the fellowship camp in the gym and several other parts of the time after worship. massive church building. “They not only invited me to stay, but Collaborative Solutions, an organization several people asked me to sit with them at operating more than $2.5 million in grants their table,” he recalled. “I wasn’t left by myself and contracts to strategically enhance housing in a corner.” and services to special needs populations, was Kelley said Williams attended the church moving more furniture into its office space to for a year, always sitting on the fourth or fifth help address low-income housing needs. pew in the sanctuary. The Birmingham Hospitality Network “One day shortly after that, our deacons was trying to figure out how to get another were meeting and discussing whether or not van for its work with homeless families. And we should continue our clothes closet minis- Cedric and his group of volunteers were sepa- try,” said Kelley. “It was being kept up by some rating and hanging up clothes. Southside Baptist Church’s 120-year presence of our wonderful, elderly women but they in downtown Birmingham has been marked by These activities were in addition to were having health and transportation issues commitments to engage the community rather the day-to-day ministry programs of the and we were concerned about them not having than live in isolation. Southside Baptist congregation. Kelley said someone with them upstairs.” such cooperation and collaboration speak to Williams was the answer to their prayers. would concentrate on getting better so she could the congregation’s commitment to building an “The next day, Cedric walked into my come back to church and the clothes closet, then inclusive community of grace. office and said, ‘If there’s something I can do, I would come pick her up.” “There is a strong commitment by I would like to help,’” said Kelley. “I honestly Ever since, Cedric has been picking up Southside to remain in the city, using the wondered about how they would all get along, Shirley and her friend, Martha, each week to resources available, whether financial, human, but they instantly became fast friends and have work in the clothes closet. or building and facilities, to share the love and really kept that ministry together.” “God is love, and that’s what I experi- grace of God to all we encounter,” said Kelley. Williams has been working with the enced when I came here,” he said. “That’s how “We see and understand that God is always clothes closet for two years now — and calls I knew that God was here.” at work around us, working in and through his co-workers “family.” people and organizations that may be different “When Shirley had an accident and couldn’t DOWNTOWN DAYS from us, yet a synergistic effect is realized with drive anymore, I visited her in the hospital and On a Monday at Southside Baptist Church, the positive results through which more of God’s said we would make a deal,” he recalled. “If she Shades Valley YMCA was hosting a summer Kingdom work is made evident.” BT

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Feature | 41 +% +#+ &--.', Associated Baptist Press ‘Beautiful’ Kentucky volunteers build new home in 10 days

PINE KNOT, Ky. — Butch and Mary Ann Brown were nearly at a loss for words walking for the first time through their new home built by volunteers with the Kentucky Baptist Fellowship.

eautiful,” Butch, terminally ill and Browns home and thanked God for them and what none could do on their own. confined to a wheelchair, said of the next chapter in their life,” Speight said. It also serves to reunite veteran volunteers “Bthe three-bedroom house built in The Browns occupied their new house from far-flung KBF churches who otherwise 10 days in place of the deteriorating 40-year- valued at $120,000 after signing a $40,000 probably wouldn’t be acquainted. “We call it old double-wide where he raised a family in long-term, low-interest mortgage they will old-home week,” Speight said. Pine Knot, Ky. be required to pay. They qualified through Charlie Gatton, 88, a veteran of all seven Asked what she would say to each of the Kentucky Highland’s Investment Corporation, Extreme Builds and member of Buechel Park 110 volunteers from various churches across an organization formed in 1968 to stimulate Baptist Church in Louisville, said he has seen Kentucky who made it happen, Mary Ann growth and create employment opportuni- the quality of work improve over the years. said: “Thank you. God has blessed so much.” ties in a nine-county region of Southeastern “Every year we get a little more knowledge Pine Knot is in McCreary County, which Kentucky. In 2003 the service area expanded to and a little more people,” said Gatton, who with Owsley County is one of two Kentucky 22 counties. for the last three years has worked as a con- counties among the 20 poorest counties in the KBF, which put up $20,000 collected sultant with Kentucky Highland’s Investment country identified in the Cooperative Baptist from member churches for the financing pack- Corporation. “I think every year they have been Fellowship’s Together for Hope initiative age, selected the family because the boost will more professional. Everybody finds a niche.” aimed at reversing rural poverty. benefit not only the couple but also will be The dedication ceremony on the Browns’ Desiring seven years ago to involve passed on to children and grandchildren living front porch included handing over keys to the Kentucky Baptists in the ministry, then-KBF in the area. house and gifts including a mailbox hand- associate Rhonda Abbot Blevins networked “We’re looking at changing generational painted by one of the more artistic volunteers with local agencies to help families such as poverty,” Speight said. and large-print Bibles signed by everyone who the Browns who need a new house but can’t The KBF is the only charity operating participated during the week. Lepper led a afford it. She had connections with Habitat for in McCreary County focused on economic dedication prayer, followed by everyone sing- Humanity and took advantage of their experi- development through affordable housing. KBF ing the hymn “Amazing Grace.” ence to coordinate the first “Extreme Build” Coordinator John Lepper said the impact goes Holm summarized the philosophy behind summer mission project. far beyond the seven families helped so far. Extreme Build by referring to a verse from For Joshua Speight, the current associ- “I think the impact of it is in the area of the New Testament book of James. “We’re ate coordinator for missions, this was the fifth hope,” Lepper said, “to build hope to change not saved by works,” he said. “We’re saved for home-building blitz and the first to finish ahead the future of a family and community.” works.” BT of schedule. “It’s a very good feeling,” he said. Lepper recalled one teenager from a past “If we could put a sign up right now that Extreme Build who had been in trouble until said ‘Mission Accomplished’ that would be working with KBF volunteers. At the end of the true,” beamed Steve Holm, general contractor week he announced to his family he was going and a member of St. Matthews Baptist Church back to the regular high school. His siblings in Louisville, Ky. said, “You can’t. You always get in trouble,” but Because of his health, Butch had not been he insisted this time would be different. to the building site since demolition. Neither “We’re not here to build a home,” Lepper had Mary Ann, so when they pulled up for the said. “We’re here to build a new narrative.” noon dedication service, they were seeing the Lepper said Extreme Build, the Kentucky completed home on their property for the very Fellowship’s premiere mission project, is a first time. model of how the statewide Cooperative “It was an emotional moment for all of us, Baptist Fellowship operates — coordinating full of tears, joy and love as we welcomed the resources from various sources to accomplish

42 | Feature Fig-uratively speaking Reblog Selections from recent blogs didn’t crowd out so much of the sun and space. at baptiststoday.org The warm winter and wet spring contrib- uted to a bumper crop. The tree is loaded with smaller figs that will ripen late into the sum- (Mark 11:11-14, 20-21). mer, along with an appreciable early crop. My favorite of Jesus’ parables is about a My biggest problem is getting to the figs fruitless fig tree found in Luke 13:6-9. When a before the birds do. Figs don’t ripen further landowner noticed a tree that had produced no after they’re picked, but as soon as they start fruit for three years running, he told his gar- turning brown, they get pecked full of holes dener to cut it down. and the ants invade. Not ready to give up on it, the gardener That leaves me walking a fine line, watch- asked the landowner to “let it alone” (the same By Tony W. Cartledge ing the figs carefully and either eating holey word as “forgive”) for another year so he could fruit or picking them a day or so before they’re dig around the tree and fertilize it with manure t is a known fact that I’m a big fan of figs. really ripe. They’re not quite as sweet and fla- in hopes of kick-starting some fruit. Few things are better straight from the tree vorful that way, but at least they’re intact and The parable is open-ended, because it’s I— and this year my tree (really more of a still make for a happy snack. really not about a fig tree, is it? It’s about fruit- bush) is loaded. I also like figs because they remind me less folk who face justified judgment but are The tree is an offshoot from a turkey fig that I have at least one thing in common offered the “manurified” mercy of a patient growing near the old house in Georgia where with Jesus, who apparently loved them. master gardener. my grandmother used to live, and where I The gospels include several stories in which Could it be that the messy stuff of life lived for the first four years of my life. North Jesus was disappointed when he checked out serves a purpose? Will we produce the kind of Carolina’s climate suits it well, though it would a fig tree but found no fruit on it. Once, he fruit that betters the world and honors God? do even better if my neighbor’s tall hollies cursed a tree with remarkable results The end of the story remains open...BT

Learning through the lens of history By John Pierce Ford, who plays Branch Rickey, the president and general manager of the he making of two new baseball- Dodgers who signed Robinson, and other themed movies this year would be actors and crew came to Macon after shoots Tgood enough news to me. The fact in Birmingham and Chattanooga, where his- they were filmed in familiar environs adds to toric Engel Stadium was made to look like the excitement. Brooklyn’s now-demolished Ebbets Field. Clint Eastwood rolled into Macon, Ga., Out for some exercise one morn- earlier this year to eat lunch (on film) at a ing during a June visit to Chattanooga, I local hangout and to shoot some scenes at decided to trek over to Engel Stadium to see historic Luther Williams Field. He plays a what might have resulted from the movie baseball scout in Trouble with the Curve. venture. To my surprise, a baseball scene — The film, expected to be released in late with teams and umpires in their ‘40s-style September, also stars Amy Adams and Justin uniforms — was being filmed. I hurried Timberlake. My daughter’s college town, back to my downtown hotel as quickly as Athens, Ga., was also a location for this possible to get my camera, my car and my movie, and apparently Timberlake’s presence family. a baseball uniform number that has been there was well noted. There’s an added pleasure in watch- retired throughout the Major Leagues — is On the heels of such stargazing, ing movies shot in familiar settings, such even greater. Harrison Ford and others came to Macon as as Remember the Titans and Sweet Home May it be a needed reminder that racial well to shoot scenes for 42 — a movie about Alabama, that were filmed at my alma mater, discrimination and bigotry violate the best Jackie Robinson who, as Archie Bunker Berry College. That is especially true when of human behavior — and that the calling once put it, “changed the complexion of the movies, such as those two, are good of God is to see inward qualities rather than baseball forever.” Some downtown Macon ones. outward appearances. streets were made to look like Brooklyn, Since so many films turn out to be And the late groundbreaking Dodger N.Y., in 1947, when Robinson became the duds, I sure hope these two new baseball- player can teach us more lessons as well — first African American to play in the Major themed movies will be good ones. But about discipline, courage and grace. Play Leagues. my hope for 42 — the film named after ball and pass the popcorn. BT

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