BaptistsTexas Committed October 2001 Newsletter of Mainstream Baptists of Texas Campbell, McBride, Vernon to be nominated at BGCT

DALLAS Ð Three veteran Texas Baptist pas- the BGCT Black Advisory Board. He was tors will be nominated for president and vice a member of the BGCT Effectiveness/Effi- presidents of the Baptist General Convention of ciency Committee, and has served on vari- Texas during the 2001 annual meeting, Oct. 29- ous state and associational committees. 30, in Dallas. Anderson called McBride “a great leader Bob Campbell, pastor of Westbury Baptist … a man of integrity and honesty. He is Nominee, Church of Houston, will be nominated for presi- familiar with Texas Baptists” and can help president dent by Phil Lineberger, pastor of Williams Trace strengthen the state convention. BGCT Baptist Church in Sugar Land. Vernon has been vice chairman of the Bob Campbell Paul McBride, pastor of Friendship Baptist BGCT Christian Life Commission and Church in The Colony, will be nominated for serves on the commission’s board of con- first vice president by Howard Anderson, pastor sultants. He has been trustee of Wayland of Singing Hills Baptist Church of Dallas. Baptist University and moderator of the Steve Vernon, pastor of First Baptist Church South Plains, Amarillo and Staked Plains in Levelland, will be proposed as second vice Baptist associations. president by Milton Cunningham, chaplain of “Steve Vernon has demonstrated his sup- Nominee, Baylor University athletics. port for the Baptist General Convention of first vice All three of the nominees are active in BGCT Texas and his willingness to be part of the president affairs. goals the convention has established,” BGCT Campbell has been pastor of Westbury Bap- Cunningham said. “His record as a pastor tist Church since 1991. He was chairman of the and his cooperation with other Baptists on Paul McBride BGCT Executive Board in 1996 and 1997. Most the local and state levels make him very recently, he was chairman of the BGCT Semi- knowledgeable of Baptist life in Texas and nary Study Committee in 2000. what we are trying to do.” In announcing his intent to nominate Campbell said he feels honored “to even Campbell, Lineberger, a former president of the be considered for such an office. We’ve BGCT, called the Houston pastor “a statesman had such great leaders Ð for a long time. To Nominee, and proven leader. At this time in Texas Baptist think you might be included in that group second vice life we need a strong leader Ð one who is com- is an honor. I would look forward to trying president mitted to the Baptist General Convention of to keep up that track record.” BGCT Texas.” He said he thinks he can “bring some McBride is past president of the BGCT Af- skills and ideas and thinking that would Steve Vernon rican-American Fellowship and is a member of Continued on Page 2… INSIDE Visit us at www.txbc.org Bill Wilson to be Breakfast Speaker Matter of Perspective by David R. Currie ...... 3 Bill Wilson, co-chair of the Network of Mainstream Baptists, United We Stand will be the speaker for the thirteenth annual Texas Baptists by Greg Magruder ...... 7 Committed breakfast. Wilson is pastor of First Baptist Church, Public Relations Terrorism Waynesboro, Virginia. We look forward to having Bill Wilson by Mark Wingfield ...... 9 as our breakfast speaker and anticipate a meaningful message. Ground Zero The breakfast will be at 7:00 a.m., Tuesday, October 30, by David Massengill ...... 11 Lone Star Ballroom B at the Adam’s Mark Hotel, Dallas. Tick- Walking In Faith ets are $20 and reservations are still available. An order form is by Dennis Harris ...... 12 found on page 23 of this newsletter. Missouri in Turmoil Bill Wilson He serves as the national co-chair of the by Mark Wingfield ...... 19 Continued on Page 2… — 1 — Nominations, from page 1… In addition to his BGCT positions, he has been a member of the Oklahoma Bap- Duke McCall Oral help churches in Texas. We need to keep tist Student Union Advisory Board and the focused on missions. The new church starts Southern Baptist Convention committee on History are so very important. Our work with His- boards and national student work commit- panics is vital, since that represents such a tee. He also has served in various associa- ‘Powerful and growing part of our state. tional, community and civic capacities. “I still have a deep interest in theologi- He and his wife, Judith Ann, have two Prophetic’ cal education for our Texas students Ð not adult children, Michael Andrew Campbell just at the seminaries and Hispanic Baptist and Michelle Andrea Zimmerman. A new book, chronicling Duke Theological School. But the graduate McBride is the founding pastor of McCall’s up-close and personal eye schools at some of our universities certainly Friendship Baptist Church, which was be- view of four turbulent Southern Baptist also need to be held up.” gun as a mission in 1983 and constituted as decades, is available from the Baptist Campbell said his experience as Ex- a church in 1984. It now has 1,350 mem- ecutive Board chairman would be helpful bers. History and Heritage Society. if he were elected president. “It gave me an “If I am elected, I want to be able to Duke K. McCall: An Oral History opportunity to see the wide variety of min- show that there is a unified body of believ- has been called “must reading” by those istries through the BGCT and our institu- ers working together” in the convention, tions. Being able to help facilitate that kind who have seen drafts the volume of he said. “I would like to see our churches McCall’s candid and insightful re- of ministry is exciting.” over Texas be as we were eight to 10 years sponses to penetrating questions from He noted he is interested in Texas Part- ago Ð how we were so unified, and there nership missions work, and said he believes was no battling between the families of Baptist historian A. Ronald Tonks. “Texas Baptists should not only be inter- believers.” ested in ourselves, but we should have a He has been affiliated with the BGCT Baptist historian strong base to reach out beyond our bor- since 1983, and said he has “seen the con- ders.” vention grow and change.” He cited an un- Charles Deweese says: Westbury Baptist Church has 1,374 resi- precedented “opportunity to reach out to “Powerful and sensitive memories dent members and averaged 504 in Sunday the unchurched, to bring people who don’t drive this volume. In a gracious act of school attendance last year, when it bap- know Jesus Christ into the body of believ- stewardship, Dr. McCall shares his tized 35 new Christians. The church con- ers.” soul. His no-holds-barred responses to tributed $40,452 to the Cooperative Pro- McBride is a graduate of Eastvale Jun- penetrating questions hide nothing. Be gram unified budget, which was 5 percent ior College, Southern Bible Institute of Dal- prepared to laugh, to cry, to admire, of budget receipts. las, Trinity Valley Baptist Seminary and perhaps, at times, to dissent. The sec- Before becoming pastor at Westbury, Andersonville Baptist Seminary. He is re- tion, ‘How to Deal with Controversy,’ Campbell was pastor at Calvary Baptist tired from GTE. sharpened in the line of fire, is worth Church in Garland; Northwest Baptist He and his wife, Ida, have three chil- the price of the book. And McCall’s Church in Ardmore, Okla.; Salt Creek Bap- dren and five grandchildren. tist Church in Brownwood; Plum Grove analysis of recent Southern Baptist con- Vernon has been pastor of the 3,218- troversy reeks of the prophetic. This is Baptist Church in Markley; and Calvary member First Baptist Church of Levelland, Baptist Church in Forest Hill, La. a choice contribution to the literature since 1991. Previously, he was pastor of of free Baptists.” He also was assistant professor of Bible First Baptist Church in Panhandle, First and Greek and director of religious activi- Baptist Church in Kress, and First Baptist McCall, retired president and later ties at Howard Payne Baptist University in Church of Ames, Okla. chancellor of Southern Baptist Theologi- Brownwood. He has been an adjunct pro- Cunningham said Vernon’s character cal Seminary, was a key moderate fessor at Southwestern Baptist Theological and demeanor form the foundation of an Seminary in Fort Worth, and New Orleans exemplary life. “He has been a role model Southern Baptist Convention leader dur- Baptist Theological Seminary. for his family and community. He’s a man ing the decades of SBC controversy. He is a graduate of Louisiana Collage in who has led his church to be supportive of He is also former executive secretary of Pineville, and Southwestern Seminary, the BGCT, and he’s demonstrated his lead- the SBC Executive Committee, former where he earned a doctorate in New Testa- ership ability in the responsibilities given president of New Orleans Baptist Theo- ment. him over the years.” Vernon has served on numerous BGCT logical Seminary and former president Wilson, from page 1… and associational committees, and has par- of the Baptist World Alliance. Religious Liberty Council and as a mem- ticipated in missions projects in Mexico, ber of the Board of Trustees for the Uni- South Africa and Brazil. He has been ac- The book is available for $20 from the versity of Richmond. Bill is a former presi- tive in community causes, and was named Baptist History and Heritage Society, dent of the Baptist General Association of 2000 Man of the Year by the Levelland P.O. Box 728 Brentwood, TN 37024- Virginia (1997-98) and a former member Area Chamber of Commerce. 0728; phone: 800-966-2278; FAX: and chair of the Board of Directors for the He is a graduate of Baylor University (615) 371-7939; website: Baptist Center for Ethics (1995-2000). Wil- and Southwestern seminary. son and his wife, Kathy, have three chil- He and his wife, Donna, have three chil- www.baptisthistory.org dren: Jennifer, Brent and Ryan. dren. — 2 — A MATTER OF also fail, in time, as people are turned off the true genius of the American system of PERSPECTIVE by self-proclaimed Christians exhibiting total religious freedom for all. Religious such hate. liberty is the very reason we have seen Overcoming As horrible as the events were that oc- such a turning to God by so many, while at Public curred on September 11, God is making the same time, strong words of support and Relations some good come from this tragedy. Cer- tolerance for those of other faiths. I am Terrorism tainly we must all continue to pray for the especially proud of how President George By families that lost so many loved ones — Bush has handled this delicate issue. David R. Currie, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, sisters, More and more, informed lay persons are embarrassed by the Pharisaical atti- Coordinator brothers. This was a horrible tragedy caused by radical Middle Eastern fundamentalists. tude of many fundamentalist leaders in As Texas Baptists head toward our Fall A positive coming from this event is the SBC and want a Baptist witness based annual convention this October 29-30, 2001, people across the world, including our fel- on Christ and his everlasting love and we have several reasons to be encouraged. low Baptists, now understand the danger grace. Many lay persons in churches that Allow me to examine a few positive things of radical fundamentalism. The word fun- have joined the Southern Baptist of Texas happening. damentalism will never be viewed in any convention now realize they are no longer Texas Baptists are tired of negative sort of positive light again. supporting Baylor, Howard Payne, Dallas attacks based on lies and half-truths. Yet, Southern Baptist Convention fundamen- Baptist or any of our eight universities as the SBC continues to follow this modus talists are not as strident as terrorists, that well as Buckner Benevolences, our Baptist operandi because it is the nature of the fun- would be ridiculous to infer. They do not hospitals and retirement centers, the river ministry and many other programs and in- damentalist mind-set. They must have an try to take away people’s lives, just people’s stitutions. They are demanding their enemy. freedom to practice Baptist principles (see churches return to partnering with the This approach is starting to backfire Greg Magruder’s article on page 7 regard- BGCT. as people are tired of lies. The SBC lead- ing events in Florida; Johnny Pierce’s ar- These are positive events happening in ership recently made a huge mistake in at- ticle on page 23 regarding the “Inquisition our state and we must continue to work for tacking Buckner Benevolences, the Texas attitude” sweeping Georgia, and the articles unity among all who are willing to cooper- Baptist ministry to children. This is an or- regarding recent events in Missouri on ate. Please resist all efforts by fundamen- ganization beyond reproach, that does won- pages 19). talists to impose a creedal faith on your derful work. The SBC attack, linking Yet all fundamentalists — whether Is- state convention, association or church. Di- lamic, Jewish or Christian or other faith Buckner to Planned Parenthood and pro- vision in Baptist life is ALWAYS insti- — share common traits. Fundamentalists abortion groups was ludicrous. Buckner gated by fundamentalists. Only fundamen- all tend to (1) be threatened by freedom; had worked with Planned Parenthood, along talists want everyone to think alike. Only (2) see themselves involved in a holy war with 23 other groups, in an abstinence edu- fundamentalists want to tell others how to against modernism; (3) seek to control all cation for fourth-through eighth-graders believe. Only fundamentalists want to con- held in Amarillo. (See story on page 9 of they can gain power over; (4) seek power trol others. Hear me. EVERY SINGLE this newsletter.) ruthlessly; (5) want to use the power of the INCIDENT OF DIVISION IN BAPTIST Ken Hall, President of Buckner said their state to enforce their particular interpreta- LIFE TODAY IS INSTIGATED BY attack amounts to “public relations ter- tion of faith; (6) believe the end justifies FUNDAMENTALISTS. I dare anyone to rorism.” Hall added, “Slander is an abomi- the means; (7) have no shame in using un- give one single piece of evidence to the nation to the Lord. We become the devil’s truth to advance their goals; (8) claim that contrary. instrument” by practicing it. all their activities are blessed by God. Every single traditional Baptist reading Hall is correct, but unfortunately, “pub- Jerry Falwell, now a prominent South- this is more than happy to COOPERATE lic relations terrorism” is a critical part of ern Baptist who speaks often at SBC events, with fundamentalists in sharing the gospel. SBC standard operating procedure. will never recover from his insidious re- It is fundamentalists who do not want to Roger Moran, a member of the SBC marks. Traditional Baptists who have read cooperate with us unless we think as they executive committee, has practiced “public his writings or heard him preach, know his do and allow them to control them. I know relations terrorism” for years and his mate- theology is as mean as that expressed on of no traditional Baptists who desire to con- rial is now circulating not only in Missouri the 700 Club’s nationally televised broad- trol anyone. We just want our birthright, and Texas, but in Kentucky, Arkansas, cast. Many believe he meant what he said i.e., that we be allowed to be Baptists and North Carolina, Tennessee, Mississippi and about God punishing America and that exercise our Baptist freedoms of local other states as well. This is the material his apology had a great deal to do with a church autonomy and the priesthood of ev- former BGCT employee Ken Coffee is re- fear of lost revenue and little to do with ery believer. ferring to in his article on page 6. It attacks sincere remorse. We will leave the final We are moving forward. There are thou- the Baptist General Convention of Texas, judgment of that to God, but I predict the sands in Texas who do not know Christ. the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, Main- SBC will never use Falwell on a major Most of our churches and pastors want to stream Baptists, Texas Baptists Commit- program again. unite around the goal of winning this state ted, and individuals like Charles Wade, Phil The cause of Religious Liberty has also to Christ. “Public relations terrorism” will Strickland and me in a slanderous manner. gained support. Those who attacked our fail. It will fail if it receives no hearing No secular business would attack a com- country come from a political system where from good Baptist people. Let that day be- petitor with such malice. These attacks will the faith controls the state. Many now see gin now. — 3 — Make Sure Your Church is a “Baptist” Church

By Brian L. Harbour my schedule to go down to the Baptist tist churches. Let me elaborate on what that Western Hills Baptist Church, Ft. Worth Building and spend a day working with means. that committee, I would ask myself, “Now, Christologically Focused I owe a great debt to Texas Baptists. exactly why am I doing this?” But now, as Our churches must be, first of all, I was saved in a Texas Baptist church at I observe the wonderful work this commit- christologically focused. the age of 8, the First Baptist Church of tee is doing to keep Texas Baptists “Bap- When Jesus asked the disciples at Ganado, in south Texas, under the preach- tist”, I have my answer to that question. Caesarea Philippi, “Who do you say I am?” ing of Brother Tierce and the influence of Texas is still a place where Baptists can be Peter confessed, probably speaking for the my Christian parents. real Baptists. The Baptist Distinctives Com- entire group, “You are the Christ, the Son I was called to the ministry in a Texas mittee and the Texas Baptist heritage cen- of the living God” (Matt. 16:16). Baptist church as a senior in high school in ter are helping to insure Texas will con- According to Matthew’s account, Jesus the First Baptist Church of Rogers, in cen- tinue to be that kind of place. responded: tral Texas, under the preaching of Clyde It has been my privilege for the last “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, Lee Herring. eleven years, since coming back to Texas, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you The legacy of Texas Baptists has shaped my ministry. I feel an that you are Peter, and on this rock I will obligation under God to provide that same legacy for the men and build my church, and the gates of Hades women God is calling into the ministry today and will be calling in will not overcome it” (Matt. 16:17). the days ahead. That statement needs to be regularly re- peated in our churches as a reminder that So how can we do that? Many strategies must be developed, and I the church is not ours but his. am thankful for David Currie’s leadership in developing and carrying If I remain as the pastor of First Baptist out many of those strategies. Richardson until my retirement, I will have pastored that church longer than any other Let me give one simple answer to the question: “What can we do?” pastor in its 150 year history. But being the pastor with the longest tenure will not make We can make sure the churches of which we are members remain it my church. genuine, free Baptist churches. Some of you lay people here tonight have contributed sacrificially over the years to your church: I was educated in a Texas Baptist insti- to attend the state conventions as we have ¥ in money, tution Ð Baylor University Ð where I re- met across the state. When I sit in the busi- ¥ in time, and ceived my B.A. and my Ph.D. degrees. ness sessions and hear the bickering back ¥ in leadership. I have served most of my ministry in and forth, I ask myself, “Now, why exactly But that sacrificial offering to that con- Texas Baptist churches. The legacy of am I doing this?” I’d rather be having a gregation does not make it your church. Texas Baptists has shaped my ministry. root canal. But then when I realize what is The church is not my church nor our And I am deeply concerned about the at stake, when I see what has happened to church. It is Christ’s church. legacy Texas Baptists will provide for the other state conventions, I know the answer And if we are to remain distinctively young men and women God is calling to to that question. I go to those meetings Baptist, we must keep Christ at the center. ministry today and will be calling in the because we must continue to support the days ahead. leadership in Texas who will provide a cli- People Inclusive It has been my privilege, since the day mate for the Baptists of this state to be Our churches must also be people in- Truett Seminary opened, to be a part of the genuinely Baptist. Charles Wade is that kind clusive, churches where every Christian is adjunct faculty. Every week when I get in of leader. free to minister at whatever level he or she my car at 5:15 on Friday morning to make The legacy of Texas Baptists has shaped is gifted to serve. the trip to Waco, I ask myself, “Now, ex- my ministry. I feel an obligation under God This is not the case in every church. A actly why am I doing this?” to provide that same legacy for the men universalization of some New Testament Then, as soon as class begins and I look and women God is calling into the ministry texts that were addressed to particular situ- into the faces of the bright young people today and will be calling in the days ahead. ations in specific churches in the first cen- God has brought to that place, I know why So how can we do that? Many strategies tury world, and a neglect of other texts, has I’m doing this. Because I want to contrib- must be developed, and I am thankful for led to a distortion of the biblical teaching. ute to the legacy Texas Baptists is provid- David Currie’s leadership in developing and Some churches, consequently, have re- ing for those young men and women. Truett carrying out many of those strategies. fused women certain positions of leader- is a part of that legacy. Let me give one simple answer to the ship. It was my privilege to serve as the first question: “What can we do?” Other churches have treated individuals chairman for the Baptist Distinctives com- We can make sure the churches of which differently based on their marital status. mittee in 1995-1996. Every time I set aside we are members remain genuine, free Bap- The New Testament calls us to be — 4 — Galatians 3:28 churches where “there is nei- For the sake of the gospel, we must be lowship for him. ther Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male willing to become all things to all people Every one of those 6 billion plus people nor female” but all are one in Christ Jesus. so that by all means we might win some. must come to God through Christ if they When dealing with practical problems ¥ Christologically focused, are to have eternal life. in the churches, Paul did give some spe- ¥ People inclusive, The only way those 6 billion plus people cific instructions for churches concerning ¥ Methodologically pragmatic, and will ever know about Christ is if we make women in leadership. then, the effort to tell them. But when he discussed the theology of ¥ Theologically balanced. ¥ Praying for our missionaries, the church in Ephesians 4, he did not men- The ideology of fundamentalism has in- ¥ Giving to missions, tion gender. Instead, he established a vaded Southern Baptist life in our day. ¥ Developing partnerships with other person’s role in the church strictly on the ¥ Its methodology is top-down churches to do missions, basis of spiritual gifts. authoritarianism. ¥ Adopting an unreached people group, The New Testament clearly affirms that ¥ Its theology is negative and restric- ¥ Sponsoring prayer walks, the spiritual gifts and the ministry in which tive. ¥ Collarobrating with other Christian to use those spiritual gifts are determined ¥ Its spirit is judgmental. groups, by the Holy Spirit, not by us. ¥ Its approach is exclusivistic. ¥ Organizing mission trips. I pray for churches where the only ques- ¥ Its goal is a theologically pure church. These are just a few of the strategies tion that is important when it comes time ¥ Its politics is right wing with a ven- that will enable us to be a church without to fill a position of leadership is not “are geance. walls in a world without borders. you a man or a woman,” not “what is your As Texas Baptists, we must continue to How can we keep Texas Baptists “Bap- skin color,” not “are you married or single,” tist”? Each of us here needs to make sure not “are you old or young,” but simply… resist fundamentalism so that we can be New Testament churches: the church in which we are members re- “are you gifted by the Spirit of God to do mains a genuine, free Baptist church. the job!” ¥ churches that magnify the autonomy Churches where everyone is free to do of the local church, This is what that will mean ¥ churches that magnify the priesthood anything God has gifted him or her to do, In your church, keep Christ at the of the believer, churches that are people inclusive. center. Don’t let some clay pot who was ¥ churches that understand the eternal called to be your pastor claim to be the Methodologically Pragmatic relevance of the separation of church Our churches must also be methodologi- and state, head of the church. That position is al- cally pragmatic. ¥ churches that contend for the faith ready taken. Christ is the head of the church. One of the most difficult things for a once for all delivered to the saints In your church, make sure everyone church to do is to distinguish what we do but do that in the spirit in which the is free to do anything God has gifted him from how we do it, to distinguish the min- faith was once-for-all delivered, or her to do. Don’t allow the culture to istry from the method in which that minis- ¥ churches that believe in God but do marginalize those whom God has called try is carried out. not play God in their judgment of and gifted for ministry. Only when we have made that distinc- other people, In your church, don’t confuse the tion, however, will we be able to adapt the ¥ churches that do not tell all of its method and the ministry. Don’t keep us- most efficient methods in each new situa- members what to believe but instead ing outdated strategies that no longer work. tion to carry out our core ministries that do teach them to develop their belief sys- Find ever new methods to carry out the not change. tem themselves through a careful unchanging ministry of the church. Jesus was methodologically pragmatic. study of God’s Word, In your church, do not let fundamen- For each person he addressed, Jesus adapted ¥ churches that do not build their the- talism win the day. Fight for the Baptist a method that fit that individual. ology on a few carefully selected pas- principles that will enable your church to He talked to the woman at the well about sages on a few specifically chosen remain a free Baptist church. waters of life and to the rich young ruler issues but churches that build their In your church, do not settle into your about giving away everything and to Peter theology on the whole Word of God, about becoming a fisher of men. ¥ churches that are theologically bal- comfort zone and forget a world that In each situation, Jesus adapted meth- anced. needs the gospel. Lead your church to de- velop a mission strategy big enough to touch ods that were appropriate to that situation. Mission Oriented Paul was also methodologically prag- the whole world. matic. You remember how he put it in his Our churches must be mission oriented, I hope that thirty years from now, some Corinthian letter: churches of transformed people who are Texas Baptist pastor can stand up in a meet- “I have become all things to all men so transforming the world. ing and say, “The legacy of Texas Baptists The purpose of the church is missions. that by all possible means I might save has shaped my ministry and I am thankful Our mission field is the whole world. We some” (1 Cor. 9:22). for those pastors and laypeople, back at the cannot be Ð we dare not be Ð village Then, he explained why he was willing beginning of the twenty-first century, who to be methodologically pragmatic: “I do churches with a village God. Six billion plus people live on the sphere paid the price to keep Texas Baptists genu- all this for the sake of the gospel, that I inely Baptist.” may share in its blessings” (1 Cor. 9:23). called earth. God created every one of those 6 billion plus people in his image for fel- If that is to be, it is up to me—and you. — 5 — Coffee Break by Ken Coffee In a recent “Break” immediately following the tragedies of Sep- tember 11, I wrote about fundamentalism in all its forms being driven by hate. In so doing I unintentionally indicted a large group of Bible- believing Christians whom I did not intend to injure. I would like to set the record straight. Coffee Break In the broad spectrum of theological thought, most of us who read by Ken Coffee this material would be considered fundamentalists, in that we believe “God is great! God is Great!” in the fundamental truths of God’s Word. I consider myself theologi- Those are the words and the sentiments we tried to cally fundamental. What I was trying to cast aspersions on is a brand project in the special prayer time we had following the of fundamentalism that is intolerant, disdaining fellowship with any- tragic attacks on America. Those are also the words one who disagrees with them, or radical in the sense that they pervert jubilant Palestinians shouted as they gathered in the the teaching of God’s Word. streets of Nablus at almost the same time we were We have seen what radical Islamic fundamentalists can do in God’s meeting at the church. name. In spite of mainstream Islam’s statements that these terrorists The difference is that the Palestinians felt God is will not go to heaven, many fundamentalist Muslims continue to great because he allowed America to be devastated by preach that the killing of Americans is a sure way to get to heaven. some of their brothers who were willing to give their This teaching is adamant, vociferously preached, and yet wrong, ac- lives to damage America. In our gathering we felt God cording to Islamic leaders. Osama bin Laden, who is not a clergyman, is great because he will sustain us, provide for us, help teaches this brand of Islam, and radical Islamic clergymen back him us through this terrible ordeal. up. There rarely has been a more cogent demonstration What I was trying to say in my previous “Break” is that radical of the fundamentalist mindset than what has happened fundamentalists are much the same, whether they are Muslims, Jews, this week. It would be a mistake to believe that all or Christians. In the radical’s mind he is right and those who do not Muslims are radical fundamentalists, just as it is a agree with him do not deserve consideration, or toleration. mistake to feel that all Christians are radical funda- In recent years we have seen in our own denomination a brand of mentalists. radical fundamentalism that in its end excludes anyone from fellow- However, those who feel their God seeks retribu- ship unless they agree with those who lead. It is a brand of radical tion toward those who are their enemies, and that they fundamentalism that preaches guilt by association. If you associate serve him best by causing great anguish and creating with a sinner, you must be a sinner. That is demonstrated no more havoc demonstrate fundamentalism. effectively than in the attitude of SBC leaders and their followers Fundamentalism is hateful, whether it is Muslim, toward the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Jewish or Christian. What happened in our country I am not a member of CBF. I have never been to one of their that fateful Tuesday was a result of hate in the minds meetings. I cannot speak for their beliefs, beyond the fact that they are of those who felt that because they hate America, God Baptists. However, I never thought I would live to see the day that must hate America, too. Christian fundamentalists, even responsible Baptist leaders would vilify and scandalize any Baptist Baptists, demonstrate the same mentality. It is a men- group the way they have the CBF. tality guided more by hate than by love and is the The attitudes of some Baptists toward the CBF borders on hate. opposite of what Jesus taught. The actions of the SBC toward churches that permit members to Whether that hate is directed toward homosexuals, contribute to CBF is hateful, spiteful, and in my opinion, unchristian. moderates, liberals, women preachers, America-“The Frankly, I don’t care what they believe, so long as they believe and Great Satan,” or whatever, it is still hate. America this confess that Jesus is their Saviour. week saw a demonstration of what hate can do. The manner in which Muslim radical fundamentalists wreaked I loved what Dr. Buckner Fanning said recently havoc on our country is certainly the pinnacle of radicalism, so far. when interviewed about this tragedy. He said, “Hate Yet, the havoc wreaked by radical fundamentalists on the greatest will not change the world. Love will.” He is so right. missionary sending denomination in the history of the world cannot God is still in charge, and he will not be manipu- be ignored. In an effort to get us all to believe exactly as they believe, lated by twisted thinking. Trust him. He will, see us these people have split this denomination, probably irreparably. through. But, even with all that—when people ask me what kind of Baptist I am, I respond, “I am a Southern Baptist.” I say it with pride, not because of those who lead our convention, but because of the hun- dreds, even thousands, of people who continue to believe that carry- ing out the Great Commission is still our mandate, and our mission- sending agencies still provide us the best opportunity to carry it out. So, I apologize to those who were offended by my insensitive, all- inclusive remarks. All fundamentalists are not radical. Have a great day.

— 6 — United We Stand

By Greg Magruder remains true because God’s people “are order to be a Christian. Paul was attacking the salt of the earth–the light of the world” the Law of Moses, the faith once delivered, Dear Friends, (Matt. 5:13-14). When we let down spiri- the scriptures! These people felt it was their Bear with me. I am going to write about tually, evil creeps in. obligation to defend the faith and under- the upcoming associational annual meeting We need to be spiritually alert because mine Paul’s ministry and work. Paul wrote in October, the SBC/CBF conflict and the the true enemy here is religion gone sour. to the Galatians to defend the gospel and recent attacks on America. They all have a Muslim religion. Christian religion. Fun- the freedom that we have in Christ. In defense of the BF&M 2000 last year common theme. Follow closely. damentalism crosses all religious barri- at the convention, Dr. John Sullivan said, I know you were as torn as I was to ers. It is a mindset that will not sleep until “If I have to err, I’m going to err on the watch the heart-wrenching attacks on the its enemy is vanquished. Who is their en- side of strictness.” Let me paraphrase: if I Word Trade Center and the Pentagon. This emy? Anyone that is not a part of their was a calculated and well-orchestrated have to choose between fundamentalism or group. the gospel, I choose the safety of funda- scheme to demoralize and destroy America I had talked once with Dr. Martin Marty mentalism and reject the risk of freedom and all she stands for. Religious zealots of the University of Chicago. I had done found in the Gospel. Don’t you see? The who hate America planned the attacks over research on international fundamentalism battle in the SBC and our association is a long period of time. The hijackers gave and he wanted to hear my thoughts on the the between fundamentalism or the gos- their lives for the cause, a cause that es- subject. He had just edited a five-volume pel of Jesus Christ. Paul wrote, “It is for pouses murder as a justified means for at- study on fundamentalism as part of the Fun- freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand taining salvation. damentalism Project. This comprehen- firm, then, and do not let yourselves be Who are these terrorists? They are Mus- sive study looks at fundamentalism in reli- burdened again by a yoke of slavery” (Gal. lim fundamentalists. They are not the tra- gious and secular groups around the world 5:1). Why have we traded the birthright of ditional Islam followers. The Muslim com- and tries to discern common threads of freedom for the watery soup of legalism? munity and leaders have denounced the at- thought and practice. There are many good things about the tacks. They have declared outrage at the The research discovered that fundamen- SBC. There are many good people and min- depraved actions of a few in their religious talism begins when a person or group istries in the SBC. The problem is the tradition. has experienced hurt and pain and vows self-congratulatory leaders that have sto- But fundamentalism crosses all reli- revenge on their enemies. The “us versus len our institutions and through the spoils gious boundaries. When the bombings them” mentality creeps into the structure, system have rewarded each other with took place, Jerry Falwell said this on na- decision-making and eventually the belief positions of power. The BF&M 2000 is tional television; “The abortionists have got system of the group. The outside world be- the blueprint of these fundamentalist lead- to bear some burden for this because God comes suspect and threatening to the group. ers. They are using it to control, hire and will not be mocked. And when we destroy After many years, no one may remem- fire, coerce and intimidate. It has become 40 million little innocent babies, we make ber why the reactionary approach was the litmus test for the SBC. God mad. I really believe that the pagans, accepted in the first place but the belief Are you for us or against us? Agree with and the abortionists, and the feminists, and system justifies itself by finding new en- the BF&M 2000 and you are with us. Dis- the gays and the lesbians who are actively emies and newly perceived threats. This agree and we are against you. That is why our church is under attack. That is why the trying to make that an alternative lifestyle, religion is called fundamentalism. The Florida Baptist Witness has taken on the the ACLU, People for the American Way name you attach to it (Christian, Jewish, tone of heresy-hunting in its articles and — all of them who have tried to secularize Muslim, Hindu, etc.) means very little. editorials. That is why Lynn Williams has America — I point the finger in their face Some of you have thought that the and say, ‘You helped this happen’” (Wash- been removed from her consultant leader- struggle in Santa Fe River Baptist Associa- ship positions in Sunday School and Youth ington Post, 9/14/01). Is that true? Only a tion is about women’s ordination. It is not. at the Florida Baptist Convention. That is fundamentalist would use that kind of It’s about fundamentalism. Some have why Parkview has to go to the annual meet- divisive language at America’s lowest thought the struggle was about the Baptist ing this year and defend itself. point. Faith and Message 2000. It’s not. It’s about I am against fundamentalism. I am If anything, it is America’s Christians fundamentalism. Some have thought the for the gospel. I’d rather take the risk of who have let down our guard. When issue was the SBC or the CBF. It’s not. It’s liberty in Christ than be subjected to the things go bad in the land, it is God’s fundamentalism. Some have thought the gatekeepers and mind-police of fundamen- people who are to repent and pray. “If attack on America is about Muslims versus talism. We are in a Holy War. It is a war my people, who are called by my name, Christians. It is not. It is about fundamen- for the soul of our nation, our denomina- will humble themselves and pray and seek talists who terrorize the world in the name tion, our association and our church. Don’t my face and turn from their wicked ways, of Allah. let anyone sidetrack you into thinking the then will I hear from heaven and will for- The struggle is the gospel versus fun- struggle is about women, organizations like give their sin and will heal their land” (2 damentalism. Paul wrote the Book of CBF, or the Bible. This is a battle for the Chron. 7:14). I know the historical context Galatians to resist fundamentalism. The le- gospel. My prayer is that you will “stand of the passage and I know that America is galists were suspicious of Paul because he fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has not Israel in this sense, but the principle said that circumcision was not necessary in set you free.” — 7 — Church survives challenge over woman’s ordination

By Bob Allen the motive” for Williams’ ordination, said ten by the apostle Paul, says, “I suffer not a A Florida Baptist association voted not credential committee chairman Eric Benson, woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over to suspend a member church for ordaining but it “further identifies Parkview with the the man.” a female staff member to the gospel minis- well-documented, liberal agenda of the On the other hand, Thomas Wright, pas- try. CBF.” tor of Mount Carmel Baptist Church,said Parkview Baptist Church in Gainesville That identification, according to the cre- he had listed 10 references to a “prophet- remains in full fellowship with Santa Fe dentials committee, “disrupts the harmony ess” from the Bible. “What is the differ- River Baptist Association after a 133-121 of our association and brings into question ence between a female prophetess and a vote rejecting a committee’s recommenda- well-founded and long established South- prophet?” he asked. “What is the differ- tion for discipline at the association’s an- ern Baptist doctrine and practice.” ence between a prophet and a preacher?” nual meeting Oct. 14. Williams responded, however, that she has said repeatedly that her ordination had “I’d like to see the association nothing to do with CBF. “I sought ordina- win,” said Herman Bowers, of Lynwood Walters of First Baptist tion because that is where God led me,” Waldo. “If you did not vote the way Church in Gainesville said his she told an overflow crowd in an afternoon the majority went ... I pray you congregation ordained women to meeting at Parker Road Baptist Church. would fall in line.” the ministry in the 1980s and 1990s and “nothing was said” by the Williams said she believes the Bible is association. The third “and greatest” concern, the report said, is that women’s “without error,” but “we have two different ordination served to further interpretations of Scripture.” The credentials committee had earlier identify Parkview with the “As Baptists, it is our historical stand voted unanimously to recommend suspen- Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, a that we are free to interpret the Scripture sion of Parkview, a step short of dismissal, breakaway moderate group and not have a man-made document,” or saying the congregation violated the Bible spawned by conflict in the creed, to establish matters of faith. and the association’s bylaws by ordaining Southern Baptist Convention in After the meeting, Williams said she had Lynn Williams as a minister. 1991. “mixed feelings” about the outcome of the Williams, minister of education at vote. “I think this was an affirmation of Parkview, has worked in the association Williams responded, however, that our church and my ministry,” she said. since 1985. she has said repeatedly that her However, she said she worries about divi- The association’s bylaws reserve the ordination had nothing to do with sion over the issue. “We have never been a right to withdraw fellowship from any CBF. “I sought ordination because divided association,” she said. “We have church found to be “out of fellowship” with that is where God led me,” she always been unified.” the association, Florida Baptist Convention told an overflow crowd in an During discussion, Lynwood Walters of or Southern Baptist Convention. afternoon meeting at Parker Road First Baptist Church in Gainesville said his According to the credentials committee, Baptist Church. congregation ordained women to the min- Parkview broke fellowship on three counts istry in the 1980s and 1990s and “nothing by ordaining a woman. Gary Crawford, pastor of Westside Bap- was said” by the association. Had Parkview First, the report said, it degraded minis- tist Church in Gainesville, argued against been suspended, he said, First Baptist would terial ordination by applying it to a “subor- singling out Parkview for discipline. The voluntarily leave, noting that between them dinate” church office. The Bible, the com- church for several years has divided its de- the two churches contribute about $20,000 mittee said, speaks of only two offices, pas- nominational giving to national causes 30 a year, or 10 percent of the association’s tor and deacon. percent to CBF and 70 percent to SBC. budget. Second, the ordination of women is “There are churches across the SBC that That comment brought groans of pro- “without biblical command, apostolic pre- fund CBF by percentages,” Crawford said, test from around the auditorium. cedent or support in Southern Baptist con- meaning “many other churches would need Later, the association’s vice moderator, fessions and is contrary to the overwhelm- to be disciplined for supporting CBF.” who presided over the debate, said he was ing weight of Southern Baptist history and Similarly, with regard to the concern disappointed to hear “threats” during de- established norms of Southern Baptist prac- about ordaining to a “subordinate” office, bate. “I’d like to see the association win,” tice,” the report continued. Crawford observed, “There are churches said Herman Bowers, of Waldo. “If you The third “and greatest” concern, the across the SBC that ordain persons to other did not vote the way the majority went ... I report said, is that women’s ordination forms of service” than senior pastor. pray you would fall in line.” served to further identify Parkview with Sebby Volpe, an evangelist, read a Bible In an earlier vote Oct. 14, the associa- the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, a passage from First Timothy describing tion rejected on one vote 127-126, a mo- breakaway moderate group spawned by qualifications for a “bishop” — which tion to adopt the 2000 version of the “Bap- conflict in the Southern Baptist Conven- Baptists take as a reference to pastor — tist Faith and Message” as a freestanding tion in 1991. including being the “husband of one wife.” document to be used in hiring and firing of “The committee does not think this was Another passage from the same book, writ- association staff. (ABP) — 8 — From the Baptist Standard's Oct. 8 issue: Attack on Buckner called ‘public relations terrorism’ By Mark Wingfield cluded the American Red Cross, the Girl Buckner received three referrals for its Managing Editor Scouts, Texas Tech Medical Center and adoption program as a result of the Ama- DALLAS—The president of Buckner several churches. Because Buckner par- rillo conference, said Scott Collins, vice Baptist Benevolences is “grieved, hurt and ticipated in a program co-sponsored by president for communications at Buckner. perplexed” by a Baptist Press report that Planned Parenthood, the article implies, “I guess appearance is more important attempts to link the Texas Baptist child- Buckner has allied itself with support for to (SBC and SBTC) than saving three ba- care agency with Planned Parenthood and abortion. bies’ lives,” he said. “We can look good, pro-abortion causes. The article quotes Roy Kornegay, di- but if we’re not out there doing the minis- Distribution of the story by the South- rector of missions for Amarillo Baptist try, we don’t get these referrals. Criticize ern Baptist Convention and publication of Association, as saying Buckner has cre- us all you want, but we got three referrals it in the monthly magazine of the Southern ated the “appearance of evil” and a “per- from that.” Baptists of Texas Convention constitutes ception of guilt by association.” “We need to have a presence wherever “public relations terrorism,” said Buckner President Ken Hall. “I have no apology for Buckner participating in this event. We’ve “This was an attack on the Baptist Gen- been called to serve as Jesus did … eating with sinners and tax eral Convention of Texas by using Buckner,” he declared. “The only conclu- collectors. We meet people where they are.” –Ken Hall sion I can draw is that they were using “Women are not going to walk up to your doorstep. You have to Buckner as a weapon to somehow injure the efforts of Baptists in Texas.” make your presence known. That ultimately saves the lives of Hall called on leaders of both Baptist children.” –Mike Douris Press and the Southern Baptists of Texas “We are uncompromising in advocating pro-life issues, but to do Convention to apologize for what he called a misleading and untruthful article that will ministry, you have to do it in the community—provide light in the harm widows and orphans. midst of darkness.” –Mike Douris “The ultimate victims of this story are the people we serve,” he said. “They’re It also quotes a number of Texas pas- girls are making a decision concerning the attacking widows and orphans.” tors, most from churches either dually or life and death of their children,” added Mike Hall said he sees the BP story about singly aligned with SBTC, criticizing Douris, vice president/chief operating of- Buckner as part of a continuing effort by Buckner’s participation in the abstinence ficer of Buckner’s Adoption and Maternity SBC and SBTC leadership to discredit the education event. Services. BGCT, which has refused to follow the The article “misrepresents the facts” “Women are not going to walk up to SBC’s move to a more fundamentalist di- and makes “immoral assertions,” Hall your doorstep,” Douris said. “You have rection in recent years. said, noting that Buckner never has and to make your presence known. That ul- “Slander is an abomination to the never will support abortion in any form. timately saves the lives of children.” Lord,” Hall said. “We become the devil’s “Buckner would not lend itself to any- And the Buckner facility in Amarillo instrument” by practicing it. thing that would teach anything other does an especially good job of that because The story, published in the Southern Bap- than total abstinence before marriage,” of its involvement in the community, like tist Texan’s October issue, is headlined “Ab- he explained. “We strongly believe in the participation in the abstinence program, he stinence program linking Buckner and absolute sanctity of life—from pre-birth added. Planned Parenthood stirs concern in Ama- to death.” “The (Amarillo) administration has rillo.” Participating in educational events like worked very cooperatively in engaging the It was written by Tammi Ledbetter, wife the one in Amarillo is essential to reach community in terms of the adoption option of Gary Ledbetter, who is editor of the young people with a message of abstinence for women,” he said. Other than the Dal- Southern Baptist Texan. However, the story and self-protection, he asserted. las/Fort Worth area, where Buckner’s larg- originated with the SBC’s Baptist Press, “I have no apology for Buckner par- est corporate presence is located, the Ama- which paid for the story to be written. ticipating in this event,” he said. “We’ve rillo operation generates the greatest num- The story reports on an abstinence edu- been called to serve as Jesus did … eat- ber of adoption referrals. cation program for fourth- through eighth- ing with sinners and tax collectors. We “We are uncompromising in advocat- graders held in Amarillo Aug. 11. Buckner meet people where they are.” ing pro-life issues,” Douris said. “But to was among 24 co-sponsors of the program, The event’s messages of abstinence and do ministry, you have to do it in the com- which received major underwriting from protecting oneself from sexual abuse ur- munity—provide light in the midst of several large charitable foundations inter- gently need to be communicated to at-risk darkness.” ested in promoting abstinence. children, Hall asserted, noting that 80 per- Because of the BP story and its publica- The BP story keys on the fact that cent of the girls and 50 percent of the boys tion in the Southern Baptist Texan, Hall Planned Parenthood of Amarillo was among in Buckner’s care statewide have been vic- said, he has begun hearing from supporters those co-sponsors. Other co-sponsors in- tims of sexual abuse. continued on page 10… — 9 — Public Relations Terrorism…from page 9 cultists by SBC leaders, he said. Asked “Throughout its history, Buckner has who are concerned that Buckner has given to explain the difference between been unequivocally committed to the pro- aid to the pro-abortion cause. Buckner’s passing relationship to tection of children, both the born and That simply is not true, he said, but Planned Parenthood in Amarillo and the unborn,” said Keith Bruce, coordina- the implication of the BP story that leads SBC leader Richard Land serving on the tor of institutional ministries for the BGCT. Buckner supporters to such a conclusion U.S. Commission on Religious Freedom “That should be obvious to even the most has only one possible motivation—to dis- alongside a Baha’i, Ledbetter said he is casual observer. credit Buckner and therefore the BGCT. “not up to speed on the work of that “It is equally obvious that Buckner But Gary Ledbetter, editor of the South- commission.” would not agree with all positions that are ern Baptist Texan, said the article had noth- ing at all to do with the BGCT. “We didn’t really have any interest in “Throughout its history, Buckner has been unequivocally committed to addressing BGCT issues in that article, and the protection of children, both the born and the unborn,” said Keith we didn’t,” he said. “It’s about an institu- Bruce, coordinator of institutional ministries for the BGCT. “That tion in Texas that many of our churches should be obvious to even the most casual observer. support.” “It is equally obvious that Buckner would not agree with all positions that are held by Planned Parenthood. However, I do think it is most “It is a travesty that anyone would appropriate and reasonable for Buckner to endorse or participate in a seek to impugn and destroy the specific program that is very much in keeping with its ministry stance, fine reputation and effective even though there may not be total agreement in all areas with the ministry of Buckner and other positions taken by other participants. BGCT affiliated ministries by twisting the realities of this Land, president of the SBC’s Ethics & held by Planned Parenthood. However, I situation in such an obviously Religious Liberty Commission, recently do think it is most appropriate and reason- self-serving and biased manner.” was appointed to the government’s religious able for Buckner to endorse or participate –Keith Bruce liberty commission by President Bush. He in a specific program that is very much in serves with a diverse group of religious keeping with its ministry stance, even After this year, individuals and adherents, including a Baha’i. The Baha’i though there may not be total agreement in churches will not be allowed to contrib- faith is considered a non-Christian sect by all areas with the positions taken by other ute to Buckner through the SBTC, be- most Baptist theologians; it teaches, for ex- participants. cause the breakaway convention has de- ample, that all world religions lead to the “It is a travesty that anyone would clared a moratorium on even pass- same salvation. seek to impugn and destroy the fine repu- through funding for Baptist entities that Associating with Baha’is is not as tation and effective ministry of Buckner have not signed a statement of affiliation problematic as associating with Planned and other BGCT affiliated ministries by with them. Parenthood, Ledbetter suggested. twisting the realities of this situation in SBTC officials earlier this year at- “I don’t know how to compare them, such an obviously self-serving and bi- tempted to woo Buckner into such a part- except that Planned Parenthood is an orga- ased manner,” Bruce said. nership—which would have required nization that is antithetical to what most “What has bothered me the most is this Buckner agreeing to SBTC’s faith state- Southern Baptist churches stand for. There slur doesn’t have anything to do with what ment—but Buckner declined to do so. is not much way to partner with Planned Buckner has been about for 122 years,” Buckner remains uniquely affiliated as an Parenthood in a way that is consistent with added Carol Brian, a Buckner trustee from agency of the BGCT. Christian beliefs.” Amarillo. “It’s an agency dedicated to the Nevertheless, the story should be of in- Also, the fact that the Buckner program restoration and healing of families. It does terest to SBTC churches because of their in Amarillo was focused exclusively on ab- so with Christian principles and adhering historical connection to Buckner, he as- stinence education should not let Buckner to the Baptist faith. serted. off the hook, Ledbetter said. “Any sexually “I’m disappointed Buckner is being Ledbetter also defended his wife’s story related material that’s taught by Planned linked to a pro-choice group in this fash- against Hall’s accusation that it is mislead- Parenthood is going to be tainted by their ion, when Buckner has a history of being ing and untruthful. Ledbetter called the story reputation of what they stand for.” pro-life. I’m proud Buckner is involved, fair and accurate. Morris Chapman, president of the SBC trying to make a difference in our commu- “Buckner has partnered in this particu- Executive Committee, did not return a nity. Buckner deals with people from con- lar event with an organization that is a ma- reporter’s phone calls regarding the Baptist ception to death—always has, always will.” jor and significant abortion provider,” he Press story. Individuals who question reports explained. “That does not imply that BGCT leaders and other Texas Bap- about Buckner should contact the agency Buckner supports abortion. But it implies tists defended Buckner’s ministry and directly, Brian added. “Please feel free that this was an unfortunate association on questioned the motives of Baptist Press to call; they have a wonderful staff who their part.” and SBTC leadership in publishing the will answer your questions,” she said. That is different than associations with story about Buckner. The number is (214) 758-8000. — 10 — Lessons Learned at ‘Ground Zero’

David Massengill wrote this article for the Oct. 1-2 meeting of the Board of and state. And the second is the impor- the Baptist Joint Committee on Public Affairs. He is a partner in a New York tance of the invisible city. City law firm and a member of the BJCPA Board. His mind first turned to “Toxic Combination” the big picture the evening of September 11, as he was “sitting in someone else’s living room with nothing but the clothes on my back, watching We saw on September 11 just what a pictures of massive destruction.” He and his family have lived in New York toxic combination religious zeal and physi- City since 1978 and are long-time members of Metro Baptist Church, where cal power can be. In the past, my motiva- his wife, Anita, directs the music. David and Anita and their family were tion in this area was my concern about the finally able to move back into their home on October 10. damage we do to our own religious faith when we combine it with easy access to By David Massengill side as an escort. secular power. My name is David, and I am homeless, Those last few blocks were hard. It was Faith means we have doubts, times temporarily. But I will be home soon. Home late afternoon on a sunny day, but there it when we start to wonder if what we be- is on Broadway, one block east of what was twilight. Everything was covered with lieve is right, if we can finish what we was the World Trade Center. The last time an inch or more of gray ash. Everything, have begun. When those doubts grow, my family and I slept at home was Mon- that is, except for a carpet of papers on the there is an extraordinary temptation to day, September 10. The next morning my ground. I had to walk on them, and as I did solve them the easy way, by decree, if we daughter, Louisa, and I left home early for I saw letters, memos, bills Ð all of the pa- know the guys with the guns, or if we midtown Manhattan. But at 8:25 a.m. my per that makes up an office. But there was are the guys with the guns. When that wife, Anita, and our 11-year-old son, Eric, no office anymore, and every third or fourth happens, God becomes unnecessary, and were standing in front of 5 World Trade page was partly burned. faith ceases to be faith. Center, hailing a cab to take him to his But even more deadly is when faith is school in Greenwich Village. Islam has a long way to go before transformed from a limit on power Ð the She dropped him off and walked to the it matches the carnage committed defender of the powerless Ð into a justifica- nearest subway station. She was going to tion for the use of power. The men who take the Number 1 train back home to the in the name of the Lamb of God flew those planes into the buildings were subway station in the basement of the World and the Prince of Peace. The not cowards. They trained for years with Trade Center Ð a stop that no longer exists. history of the church includes too the goal of causing their own swift and But when Anita got to the subway entrance, many examples of what happens violent death. They were zealots, true be- people were standing and staring at the gap- when religious faith and secular lievers, who had been freed from all ing hole in one of the World Trade Center moral limits by that zeal. If that zeal came towers and the smoke pouring from it. power merge. from what they believed was a religious Pondering God’s Mercies mandate, it would not be surprising. When I went into our apartment I was It certainly shouldn’t surprise us. Islam While she watched, she saw the second shocked. It was untouched; the lights were has a long way to go before it matches plane hit and an orange fireball burst from on and there was running water. It was as the carnage committed in the name of the other tower. She turned north and if time had stopped on Tuesday morning at the Lamb of God and the Prince of Peace. walked to our church, Metro Baptist. Since 8:25 a.m. I took care of the animals and The history of the church includes too then I have pondered God’s mercies, and then went, reluctantly, back into the world many examples of what happens when what a difference a mere 20 minutes on after September 11. religious faith and secular power merge. either side of her schedule could have made I walked into a war zone. But I knew When that happens we remove the last in our lives. this war zone. It was where I had spent and greatest limit on our capacity to de- We spent that night at our pastor’s house, most of the last 20 years of my life. When stroy: our reliance on God’s power. Zeal- but the next day I headed back downtown. you are a Wall Street lawyer, you get to ots of all faiths have been praying for Our dog and two cats had been left without know the area around Wall Street very well. the destruction of the “godless heathen” food or water, since my wife was only go- But that afternoon, everything was differ- in New York City for decades, yet God ing to be away for a half-hour or so. I ent. I really didn’t know this place. As I has been curiously unmoved. This isn’t didn’t know what I could do, so I just started walked away from there, the radios went the first time in history that zealots have walking south from 14th street. off around me with an emergency warning. used secular power to make their prayers a The wind was blowing from the south, The remaining buildings in the World Trade reality, when it appeared that God did not and it was bitter with smoke. By the time I Center were collapsing behind me. intend to do so any time soon. reached Canal Street, most people were It has now been three weeks. The debris wearing masks. There were police check- has stopped burning, and we are going home “Moral Boundary” and points every block. Because I had photo this week. But it will be a very different “Invisible Treasure” identification showing that I lived there, place. It is a different world. Our country learned this lesson long and because police have a fond spot for I’ve done a lot of thinking, and two ago, and the revolutionaries insisted on dogs, they let me through. The last four things are clear to me. The first is the a First Amendment that protects both blocks I had a National Guardsman by my importance of the separation of church continued on page 18… — 11 — Walking in Faith through the Open Door

by Dennis Harris Texas Baptists Convocation I want to tell a story I told when I was there.” So he sent the money and got the on a mission trip in the Yucatan. “A father confirmation. The appointed time came for went to see his son in West Texas. He asked the wedding ceremony. him to go on a fishing trip that weekend Afterwards, they drove through the night and to bring his best friend. So he got his to get to the hotel. They walked into the best friend and all of his camping gear to- hotel and got the key to the honeymoon gether for the trip. suite and they opened the door. After he “They arrived Friday and fished all day carried her over the threshold, she began to long, caught many fish and had a good cry. They saw a tiny room with a couch time. Saturday morning, they woke up to that made into a bed instead of a big four- rain. It rained for two days and two nights. poster. Instead of a big Jacuzzi only a sink do not go through the door. They began to play games and read books and a small shower were there. No chande- I remember a story about another man and tell stories. After playing all the games lier, fruit basket or balcony were there. who was out of resources. They asked him they knew and telling all the stories they There was a small closet. to do something impossible. The story knew, they began to argue and fight. They The next morning he decided to get some comes out of Matthew 14. Jesus had just were so mad when they got home, they did West Texas justice. When he could, he went finished being a host to a banquet for 5,000 not speak to each other for months.” This downstairs and cornered the manager. Be- people. He was tired and wanted to go up is what happens when fishermen stop fish- fore he could beat him, the manager said, on the mountain top and be with the Fa- ing. “Wait a minute, let’s go up and look.” To- ther. The disciples had packed up and got I submit it is not missions. It is mission. gether, they went to the hotel suite. The into a boat to cross the lake. We have one mission and that is to lead cowboy opened the door and said, “See Meanwhile, Jesus dismisses the crowd people to Christ. We have one mission. this is not anything like the pictures.” The and goes into the mountains to pray. It gets That is to go everywhere and to tell manager walked to the other door and dark and the disciples begin to struggle with people about Jesus. The convocation was opened it. Inside were a four-poster bed, the boat in the midst of high winds. The great. We sang beautiful songs. We have chandeliers, a fruit basket and a Jacuzzi Bible says that the sea was tossing them heard beautiful music and we have heard tub. They had spent the night in the foyer. around. They wrestled with the sails and wonderful messages. It has been a great There has to be more to it than this. In they thought they could see a figure on the time of sharing and visiting with others, Revelation the third chapter tells the story water, possibly a ghost. It never occurred however, I submit there has to be more to of writing a letter to the Philippians. Jesus to them that it might be Jesus. it than this. says in this passage, “I set before you an Then they heard, “It is I, do not be We heard about Joel. Before that in Acts open door and no man can shut it but me.” afraid.” Peter said, “Lord if that is really 2, they accused the men of being drunk An open door of opportunity awaits us. It you let me come to you.” Peter was afraid and said Peter, “They are not drunk for this has been standing open for 2000 years. If and he was out of resources. Here is a sailor, is that which was written of by Joel the we do not take something from here to lead a fisherman who spent most of his time in Prophet.” Is this what Peter was talking others to Jesus, then we might as well quit. a boat on that lake. He was ready to get out about? Does this have any relationship to There has to be more to it than this. We of the boat because he thought that getting what Jesus started 2000 years ago? Does it have to go through that open door. That into the stormy water might be safer. look anything like a Pentecost? There has open door is where people have the oppor- Can you imagine a sailor being so afraid to be more to it than this. tunity to meet Jesus. We must do the things of a storm? All he knew was that the boat I heard a story about a young West Texas that we need to do to get them there. The was full and the master was out in the wa- cowboy who fell in love many years ago door is open, yet, we do not walk through ter. He knew where to be, out in the water and decided that he wanted to get married. that door. with Jesus where it was safe. Jesus says, He wanted to have a fine wedding and hon- Primarily we do not walk through that “Come on.” He climbs out of the boat and eymoon. So he wrote to the Fairmont Ho- door because we spend so much time on suddenly he is standing up on the water on tel in Dallas, Texas. He said, “I want to research, development, planning, com- solid footing walking toward Jesus. He did impress my new bride. We are from West mittees and fundraising. We do not have not do this on his own resources, but a Texas and have never been anywhere. What time to go through the door of opportunity door of opportunity opened and he took it. do you have that is just the best thing in the and spend much time planning. We fail to We preach and teach that Peter lost his world?” walk through because we do not have the faith. This scripture passage illustrates what They sent him a brochure with pictures resources. happens to us when we lose our faith. We of a beautiful room with chandeliers, a four- We have little time to win people to say that Peter began to look at the waves, poster bed, a Jacuzzi and a fruit basket on Christ. It is not possible. We lack time, listening to the thunder and took his eyes the table. It showed a balcony with beauti- energy, money and people. Therefore, we off Jesus and fell in the water. I submit that ful people standing on it. He said, “Boy do not go through that open door. So people he was walking on the water. He turned that is what I want. I will take my bride stay lost. We say it is impossible and just back to the other disciples in the boat and — 12 — was showing them what he was doing and tells them that they are fishing on the wrong and I am sinful. He is God and I am man, fell down. I think Peter was bragging a side of the boat. but he is also the Savior. little and he got wet. Now another reason that I identify He is in the business of restoring old He began to look at the waves and the with Peter is that he appears so dense. wrecks and rekindling cold hearts. Jesus is thunder and decided he could not be doing This had happened to him once before. One in the business of mending hurts and in the this. How could I possibly be doing this? would think he would remember it. Jesus business of forgiving us. The Savior is call- Bumble bees do not fly and fishermen do told them to throw their nets on the other ing this morning and he is saying, “Feed not walk on water. He got to looking at all side. When they did, the nets had more fish my sheep. Serve me.” that was going on and forgot that the object in them than they could imagine. The width Jesus was asking Peter if he loved him was to walk on the water to get to Jesus. of success in following Christ and the dif- with a selfless devotion and if he were will- I submit that none of that is what we ference in failure is the width of the boat ing to risk everything because of his love need to focus on. Let’s not focus on his when one is not paying attention to Jesus. for him. This was the kind of love that getting wet or on him fellowshipping with All of sudden John said to Peter, “Do Peter had expressed on the night of his the storm. Let’s focus on what really hap- you know who that is? That is Jesus.” Pe- denial. He kept coming back to the word pened that night. Here was just a man in ter did not wait. He threw off his clothes filao. sandals and normal clothes. He was just a and swam to the shore. If he had known I like to teach in the shadow of the Word. fisherman. Peter decided that if he could what was coming, he probably would not There is something here that I have not just keep his eyes on the master and if he have done that. Jesus was saying to him heard or preached before and I want you to could walk through that door of opportu- what he is saying to us. see. The second time Jesus says, “Simon, nity that he could walk on water. Peter did I had agonized this morning because I do you love me?” he used the word agape. walk on the water and went somewhere had promised to go anywhere he wanted He was trying to get Peter to grasp that that no one has ever been. No other reports and say whatever he wanted me to say. I point and Peter replied as he did the first of people walking on water exist, not since never wanted to be a preacher; I just want time, “Lord, you know that I filao.” or before that time. Peter walked on water. to be a messenger for Jesus. Jesus said, “Tend my sheep.” Failure Even today, Jesus calls us to go where none I believe that he has a message for us, overwhelmed Peter and he still could not dare to go. for TBC today and this might be part of look the Lord in the face although he had He said to Peter, “Come to me.” Most it. He says, “Peter, do you love me?” After been given this significant commission. A of us would have stayed in the boat and breakfast as the group sat around the fire, few awkward moments passed. The other most of us would stay in that boat now. His Jesus turned very deliberately, to Peter and disciples seemed sympathetic with Peter. eyes fixed on Jesus, Peter climbed out of asked, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love A third time Jesus said, “Peter, do you love the boat and stepped out onto the surface me more than these?” me?” It was different and he used the word of the water. Before he knew it, he was Jesus was opening another door of op- filao. “Do you just have that kind of love walking toward the Lord. He did not get portunity for Peter. He was going to give for me?” very far but at least he did go somewhere. him another opportunity to redeem himself Peter was grieved because Jesus had We cannot duplicate the powerful works after his last failure. I think Jesus was ask- used that and he knew that Jesus knew of our Savior, but we can do things for him ing if Peter loved him more than the others what was in his heart. He looked at Jesus that are beyond our wildest imagination. did. He was asking if Peter were willing to and was deeply saddened. He said, “Lord, We can step out on faith and go where no take a greater risk. In his response, Peter you know everything about me. You know one has ever dared to go before. One of the said, “Lord you know that I love you.” He that I love you. Jesus says to Peter, “You greatest privileges in life is to know one is uses the word filao. You know that I love are right. I do know you. I know every living in the center of his will and doing you. thing there is to know about you.” I know what he is calling one to do and going He was restoring Peter. Jesus could for- everything there is to know about Den- where he is sending one to serve. He has give Peter because he had already died for nis Harris, about David Currie, about set before us an open door. He asks us to him. He could restore him to service be- Dr. Reynolds and every one of you read- walk through it in his power and to go cause he was the risen, living Lord of the ing this. where no one has ever gone before. church. We that have never failed like Pe- Jesus knows your heart, your failures I promised the Lord 30 years ago, I ter tend to misunderstand what is happen- and your sinfulness. Then Jesus said to would go anywhere he led me to tell others ing. There are very few of us reading this Peter and to us, “I know you in all your about Jesus. Three years ago, I promised like that. Those of us who have failed the failures. I know you and I still trust you that if my voice could be spared from the Lord understand. enough to ask you to feed my sheep.” cancer that the last thing that anyone would We, too, have been to the bottom. We, The door of opportunity is not shut and hear me say would be the name of Jesus. too, have come to the end of our resources the door of opportunity is for all of us in A third scripture is from a story I call and the end of ourselves. As commission our churches to walk through. You must the last breakfast. Peter and the disciples keepers and disciples, most of us are fail- walk through that door in the resources of are fishing again. They had fished all night ures in his sight. Everyone has fallen short. the Father and to go somewhere that no and had not caught very many fish. The We have not been what we should have one has gone before. Leading the world to disciples see someone on the shore that is been or what we could have been. Jesus is possible, but you must recognize roasting a fish and he calls to them, “Have We all want to serve him but none of that you have to get out of the boat. you caught many fish?” Peter replies, “No, us deserves to serve him because he is I submit it is time to quit fighting and we are not catching many fish at all.” Jesus greater than we will ever be. He is holy …continued on page 14 — 13 — Texas Trustee of IMB sent to prison for fraud

By Mark Wingfield, Managing Editor Kaemmerling, who maintains he is innocent of wrongdoing, continued to Reprinted courtesy of serve as an IMB trustee, however, until after he entered a federal Baptist Standard Publishing Co. penitentiary in Beaumont the last week of May. DALLAS—Two weeks before he was elected a Texas trustee of the Southern IMB spokeswoman Wendy Norvelle said Kaemmerling sent in a letter of Baptist Convention’s International Mis- resignation from the board dated June 4. IMB administrators were sion Board, a federal warrant was is- unaware of his predicament until he was incarcerated, she said. sued for Russell Kaemmerling’s arrest post during the last year his brother-in- on 19 counts of fraud. he had been the subject of an FBI investi- law, Paige Patterson, served as SBC presi- Kaemmerling, a veteran worker in the gation since early 1999, according to testi- dent. The SBC president does not directly so-called “conservative resurgence” within mony given at trial. control the trustee nomination process but the Southern Baptist Convention, was Further, Kaemmerling and others related does appoint the committee on committees, elected an overseer of the SBC mission to the criminal fraud case had judgments which in turn nominates the committee on board June 13, 2000, while the convention rendered against them in civil court cases nominations. met in annual session in Orlando, Fla. On in 1997 and 1999. The plaintiffs in those Kaemmerling is related to Patterson that same day, Kaemmerling appeared on cases also figured prominently in the crimi- through his wife, who is a sister to the program of the SBC annual meeting in nal trial. In the 1999 civil case, a default Patterson’s wife. Kaemmerling’s wife also Orlando, delivering the benediction for the judgment was handed down against is a sister to Chuck Kelley, president of afternoon session. Kaemmerling just one year before his New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Also on that same day, a grand jury in- nomination as an IMB trustee. There have been no allegations of any of dictment against Kaemmerling was un- In that case, tried in U.S. District Court Kaemmerling’s extended family being in- sealed in U.S. District Court in Pensacola, in Portland, Ore., Kaemmerling was ordered volved in any way with the financial deal- Fla. That indictment, which portrayed to pay Sealacota Trust $459,168 in dam- ings for which he was convicted. Kaemmerling as the leader of a seven- ages plus punitive damages of $1.37 mil- In correspondence with the Baptist Stan- man scheme to defraud investors of mil- lion. Sealacota Trust is one of several com- dard, Kaemmerling insisted none of his ex- lions of dollars, led to his conviction on panies Kaemmerling and his co-defendants tended family “had any knowledge at all of all counts three months later. allegedly wronged in one of two complex the entire situation until just prior to the Kaemmerling, who maintains he is in- investment schemes. sentencing hearing in late November 2000.” nocent of wrongdoing, continued to serve Two years earlier, Kaemmerling and two Beyond his wife and children and a as an IMB trustee, however, until after he of the same co-defendants were found li- couple of close friends, “no one was aware, entered a federal penitentiary in Beaumont able in a civil case brought by investor especially not Chuck Kelley or Paige the last week of May. Serge Chernay. That case, also tried in U.S. Patterson,” Kaemmerling said. IMB spokeswoman Wendy Norvelle District Court in Pensacola but with a dif- Because of his role as SBC president said Kaemmerling sent in a letter of resig- ferent judge, resulted in a $1 million judg- the year Kaemmerling was elected to the nation from the board dated June 4. IMB ment against Kaemmerling. IMB, the Baptist Standard attempted to con- administrators were unaware of his predica- The federal criminal charges on which tact Patterson via certified mail for com- ment until he was incarcerated, she said. Kaemmerling eventually was convicted ment. In a letter dated July 27, Patterson’s IMB President Jerry Rankin was out of grew out of these cases and others. The administrative assistant at Southeastern the country and could not be reached. criminal conviction is on appeal. The civil Baptist Theological Seminary responded Messengers to this year’s SBC annual cases were not appealed. that he was in Africa and could not be meeting in New Orleans elected a new According to one of the Pensacola pros- contacted. trustee to replace Kaemmerling, whose term ecutors, the federal criminal charges were The chairman of the committee on nomi- was not to expire until 2004. drawn up on only eight cases in which in- nations in the year Kaemmerling was Kaemmerling’s legal troubles began vestors allegedly lost a total of $6 million. elected to the IMB was David Fannin, pas- well before his recommendation by the The total amount believed to have been tor of Nassau Bay Baptist Church in Hous- SBC’s committee on nominations, which lost through the two schemes allegedly ex- ton. He was one of two Texans serving on released its formal list of nominees April ceeds $15 million, said Benjamin Beard, the committee. The other was Wichita Falls 28, 2000. Although the grand jury had not who was lead prosecutor in the 12-day trial layman Bill Streich. formally indicted Kaemmerling by that date, against Kaemmerling and the others. Fannin said he was not aware of No obstacle to service Kaemmerling’s legal situation prior to his Walking in Faith, from page 13… Despite his earlier judgments in civil nomination and election. “If we had known get back to fishing. Promise the Lord to court, Kaemmerling was elected as an that, it would not have gone anywhere,” quit fighting and walk through that open IMB trustee. And after his conviction in he said. door of opportunity so you can begin to criminal court, he continued to serve as an Streich also said he “knew nothing” fish again. You can go where no one has IMB trustee for eight months. about the matter until late last year, even gone before. Kaemmerling was elected to the IMB though he has known Kaemmerling about — 14 — 12 years. “When I asked him, ‘Why didn’t ventions,” she noted. you tell me about this?’ he said, ‘I never Research done for her book “Baptist The indictment is 50 pages long and cov- took this stuff seriously.’” Battles” found that in 1985, two-thirds ers 19 counts of criminal conduct includ- Streich said he wouldn’t have nominated of SBC clergy read the Advocate. ing conspiracy to commit fraud, interstate Kaemmerling for the IMB post if he had Kaemmerling dropped to a lower pro- transportation of money taken by fraud and known about the indictment or the earlier file in 1986, when he was relieved of du- wire fraud. civil convictions. ties at the Advocate Dec. 30, 1985 for what Kaemmerling, who is identified in court ”Had I known that Russ was involved he deemed “personal reasons.” In an inter- documents as the leader of the business, in any kind of legal battle whatsoever, even view published in the Baptist Standard Feb. was accused of luring investors with prom- had it not been criminal in nature or if he 12, 1986, Kaemmerling said he would pur- ises of extraordinary returns of up to 2,700 was not yet convicted, I would never have sue other avenues of work but remained in percent. These investments, he told his cli- considered nominating him for any posi- sympathy with the fundamentalist move- ents, carried virtually no risk, according to tion,” he said. ment. his own testimony at trial. Also according to testimony given at An early warrior His departure was affirmed in the same article by Patterson, who said: “Russell, trial, Kaemmerling told investors they could In the early days of the fundamental- himself, for personal and family reasons, turn $500,000 into $40 million within 40 ist movement within the SBC, Russell felt it best he get out, and I certainly con- weeks. Kaemmerling’s name was virtually syn- curred.” The trio offered two investment vehicles, onymous with that political and theologi- Kaemmerling moved on to a book pub- neither of which exists, prosecutors con- cal agenda. lishing business, then a development job tended. In correspondence with the Stan- From 1980 to 1985, he was editor of the with First Baptist Academy, the private dard, Kaemmerling insisted both invest- Southern Baptist Advocate, an independent school run by First Baptist Church of Dal- ment vehicles were “legitimate, honest, magazine used to advance the fundamen- las. Later, he and his wife opened a travel straightforward and real.” talist agenda and criticize leadership of the agency in DeSoto, a Dallas suburb. Even- The first was what they called a “high- SBC and professors in SBC seminaries. tually, he began identifying himself as yield leverage program” in bank debentures. In “The Baptist Reformation,” conser- an investment consultant, according to Kaemmerling and his associates claimed vative historian Jerry Sutton called the Ad- court records and IMB documents. they could purchase debentures or IOUs vocate “the most effective communication He and his wife later became members from foreign banks at a discounted rate and tool in the early days of the conservative of Southwest Baptist Church in DeSoto, then resell those debentures to other for- resurgence.” where he was a deacon and served on the eign banks at a profit within days. Inves- Sutton, a former Texan who now is pas- missions committee. There, he was an ad- tors were told their money would not be tor of Two Rivers Baptist Church in Nash- vocate of the church breaking its ties with used to purchase the debentures but would ville, Tenn., says in his history of the SBC the BGCT and aligning with the new South- be used only as security to prove to the conflict that the Advocate was “funded by ern Baptists of Texas Convention. foreign banks that Kaemmerling and his the Criswell Center for Biblical Studies,” But on the national scene, he remained partners could cover the cost. The inves- now known as Criswell College. out of sight—until his nomination to the tors were told their money never would At that time, Patterson was president of IMB and his appearance on the SBC pro- leave the account set up by Pope as a hold- Criswell College, a post from which he be- gram June 13, 2000, three months before ing fund. came a co-architect of the modern funda- he was to face a jury in federal court. In reality, prosecutors asserted at trial, mentalist movement in the SBC. investors’ money left Pope’s account and In addition to editing the magazine, Questionable investments was divided among the perpetrators of the Kaemmerling worked behind the scenes to Court records show that in the early fraud. Kaemmerling acknowledged on the organize the fundamentalist get-out-the-vote 1990s, Kaemmerling became associated witness stand that not one of his inves- effort in the SBC directed by Patterson and with two other men in brokering high-dol- tors in debentures ever realized a profit. Paul Pressler. lar investments. The two were Kevin The second scheme involved the pur- Pressler, in his book “A Hill on Which Michael Kelly of Chicago and Ray Pope of ported rental of U.S. treasuries. According to Die,” mentions that Kaemmerling ar- Pensacola. Both Kelly and Pope were con- to prosecutors, U.S. treasuries cannot be ranged for a block of hotel rooms for con- victed of fraud charges along with leased. servative messengers to the 1984 SBC an- Kaemmerling. Nevertheless, Kaemmerling and his nual meeting in Kansas City. “This was Little public information can be found associates offered to lease such securities where we and the Pattersons stayed, along about Kelly, who was based in Chicago. to investors for a one-year period with with many other conservatives,” Pressler Pope was an attorney based in Pensacola, the promise of a high rate of return with explained, noting that Kaemmerling had a former Baptist who was well-respected little risk. To get their money back, inves- secured the hotel because it was not in the in the professional community and tors were required to produce a “safekeep- block of rooms managed by the SBC Ex- church circles. ing receipt” from a reputable bank. The ecutive Committee. In connection with at least four other legal contract spelled out the conditions re- Moderate Baptist sociologist Nancy individuals who played various roles, quired for such a “safekeeping receipt” and Ammerman also credits Kaemmerling and Kaemmerling and his co-defendants alleg- stipulated that if such a document could the Advocate with being highly influential edly operated two fraudulent investment not be produced within 48 hours, the in- in the early 1980s. “It provided very ex- schemes, according to the grand jury in- vestor would forfeit all his money. plicit instruction on attending annual con- dictment and testimony given at trial. According to Kaemmerling’s own testi- — 15 — mony at trial, not a single investor ever Kaemmerling contends evidence that produced a satisfactory “safekeeping re- vestment schemes in which Kaemmerling was found liable of mishandling investors’ would have exonerated him was not al- ceipt.” All investors in the treasury rentals lowed to be used in the trial. Further, he lost the money they put up, he acknowl- money in Oregon civil court. That case was brought by Sealacota Trust. said, “the U.S. attorney simply took sev- edged. eral names, strung them together, manu- One investor testified that he produced Part of Kaemmerling’s defense in his criminal trial was his assertion that Wolas factured evidence … and was able to get a 10 “safekeeping receipts” but none of them conviction after a lengthy trial.” were deemed acceptable by Kaemmerling stole $1 million Kaemmerling had arranged Character witness and his partners. This testimony was given to invest through him. That’s why he was by Serge Chernay, a retired Air Force colo- unable to fight the civil case brought against Throughout the trial, both nel who planned to use the return on his him in Portland by Sealacota Trust, he said. Kaemmerling and Pope made reference investment to provide medical supplies to In correspondence with the Standard, to their religious involvement. Russia and the Far East. He lost $250,000. Kaemmerling reasserted his contention that Kaemmerling told how he attended South- western Baptist Theological Seminary and Chernay received a default judgment Wolas was the source of much of his became a pastor, about his work as editor against Kaemmerling and others in 1997 troubles. Kaemmerling said he cooperated of the Advocate and his work with First but never received any compensation, he with legal investigations into Wolas’ al- leged criminal activity and turned over his Baptist Church of Dallas. testified. Testimony introduced in the Pope told the jury how he met Florida criminal trial stated that the judge own records for examination. However, evidence presented at trial Kaemmerling through a mutual acquain- presiding over Chernay’s civil trial cited tance and how the two men came to be Kaemmerling and his co-defendants for showed Kaemmerling operated at least two corporations for which he kept no friends as they discovered they both were contempt. engaged in similar Baptist causes. “The defendants have engaged in a clear financial records. These corporations were Star Financial and Southwest Financial Ser- In the end, however, the purported pattern of contempt, and their conduct piety of the co-defendants proved to be a vices. Prosecutors suggested that money threatens to make a mockery out of this stumbling block. At the sentencing hear- passed through these two corporations to two judicial system,” wrote Judge Lacey Collier. ing Nov. 30, 2000, Judge Roger Vinson travel companies owned by Kaemmerling. “This court cannot allow the waste of judi- said he found Kaemmerling’s conduct at cial resources or the inconvenience to ju- Further evidence presented at trial trial to run counter to his religious pre- rors which would result from holding a trial showed that Kaemmerling personally re- sentation. that the defendants chose not to attend.” ceived at least $800,000 from the various “With respect to Mr. Kaemmerling, his Kaemmerling acknowledged on the wit- investment offerings. Where that money testimony, I have noted that I did not find ness stand that Chernay’s $250,000 was went is unclear, other than Kaemmerling’s his testimony to be truthful and consistent divided between himself and Kevin Kelly assertion that his resources had been drained with the overwhelming weight of the evi- because they had been “at risk” in the in- by seeking to defend himself against previ- dence of the case, and that has been con- vestment, which would only produce a ous court cases. firmed by the jury,” the judge said. “I will profit beyond the second month. In correspondence with the Standard, simply count the number of occasions, 28 He did not attend the civil court trial Kaemmerling said he chose not to fight the separate occasions, Mr. Kaemmerling gave testimony that was untruthful during the because he was running out of money and Oregon civil judgment because he was “in- course of the trial. I consider this to be an had an opportunity to provide for his fam- suring that I would have enough funds to obstruction of justice.” ily by leading a group of people on a trip. fight any serious legal issues that arose” later. Beard, the prosecuting attorney, re- Chernay’s civil judgment against sponded to Vinson’s declaration later in Kaemmerling was entered three years be- “The default was entered based on an affidavit from a dead woman on behalf of the hearing. fore Kaemmerling’s nomination and elec- “He has intentionally hurt people for tion to serve as an IMB trustee. an illegal business trust,” he said. “I have been assured that when this is all over, it his personal gain in contradiction of what Missing person will be a simple matter to get that reversed, he says he stands for,” Beard declared. A key figure in one of the civil cases and I have not put my physical or financial “He has put in a bad light every other individual of like position. ...What Mr. filed against Kaemmerling was Scott Wolas resources in that direction.” Kaemmerling did here is all the more of New York City. Wolas was an attorney Kaemmerling also told the Standard terrible because he holds up his entire with the law firm of Hunton & Williams he sees himself as a victim of a govern- life as a hypocrisy.” and a broker until his mysterious disap- ment conspiracy. He referred to a book As he waits in federal prison in Beau- pearance in late 1995. titled “The Tyranny of Good Intentions,” mont, Kaemmerling continues to maintain A New York grand jury has indicted which he said “demonstrates how the fed- his complete innocence of any wrongdo- Wolas for grand larceny in the first degree eral government is abusing power, manu- ing. And he insists that he will be exoner- and other crimes, alleging that he absconded facturing evidence and prosecuting non- ated on appeal. with millions of dollars from hundreds of criminal activity as if it were criminal just ”I will state plainly that I have never investors. Prosecutors have alleged Wolas to gain convictions.” taken any money illegally,” he told the Stan- had links to organized crime. They also The appeal of his criminal conviction is dard. “The business transactions we believe he resurfaced in the Orlando, Fla., based on several wrongs that allegedly oc- brokered were legitimate and real with posi- area in 1997 and committed additional acts curred during the trial, according to tive results both possible and intended.” of investor fraud. Kaemmerling and his Dallas attorney, With additional research and reporting Wolas was a partner in the ill-fated in- James Moon. by Jim Newton — 16 — EDITORIAL: Bad theology, not to mention mean “We are not dignifying (the statement) with ogy—is that God punished almost 6,000 As Americans pon- a response,” Falwell unleashed a storm of people for the behavior of others. Such an dered the imponder- protest. A White House spokesperson called assertion not only is illogical but also con- able—the horrendous the remarks “inappropriate” and stressed trary to the gospel. hijackings that resulted President Bush does not share the senti- Falwell claimed God is judging in almost 6,000 deaths ments. Ethicists and religious leaders chas- America’s sins by taking the lives of people in one clear-blue morn- tised the comments. Even ultra-conserva- who work in the Pentagon and the World ing—a common refrain tive radio host Rush Limbaugh criticized Trade Center. That’s about as logical as a By Marv Knox echoed across the land: the claims. prominent minister’s assertion that the Mis- Why? Falwell and Robertson initially de- sissippi River floods a few summers ago Why did this unspeakable act happen? fended themselves by attacking the re- were God’s judgment on homosexuality. Why do terrorists hate us so much they can ports of their comments. But when the So, God floods Des Moines instead of San incinerate thousands of ordinary people? transcript and replay of the program veri- Francisco. This time, God kills bond trad- Why? fied the accuracy of those reports, Robertson ers to punish abortion doctors. Nonsense. Politicians and pundits proffered their distanced himself from the statements. By Worse, Falwell fell into heresy. He as- perspectives for hours on end. But one Sept. 18, Falwell apologized. He called his serted a just God required the punishment preacher topped them all. Jerry Falwell remarks “insensitive,” “uncalled for” and of office workers and airplane travelers as payment for the sins of others who happen blamed people he hates, as well as God. “unnecessary.” to live in the same country. The heresy is The American Civil Liberties Union has “In the midst of the shock and mourn- that he assigned to these terrorist victims a “got to take a lot of the blame for this,” ing of a dark week for America, I made a role that only can be filled by Jesus Christ. Falwell said on Pat Robertson’s “700 Club” statement that I should not have made and Jesus came to Earth to save us from our television program Sept. 13. Robertson re- which I sincerely regret,” he said. “I apolo- sins. His crucifixion—the sacrifice of the plied, “Well, yes.” gize that, during a week when everyone only perfectly sinless person who ever lived “The abortionists have got to bear some appropriately dropped all labels and no one —is the only satisfactory substitute for burden for this, because God will not be was seen as liberal or conservative, Demo- God’s justified judgment on our flawed and mocked,” Falwell continued. “And when crat or Republican, religious or secular, I sinful souls. To claim God would require we destroy 40 million little innocent ba- singled out for blame certain groups of the sacrifice of terrorist victims is bar- bies, we make God mad. I really believe Americans. baric and contrary to the nature of God that the pagans, and the abortionists, and “I do not know if the horrific events of revealed in Christ. It also diminishes and the feminists, and the gays and lesbians Sept. 11 are the judgment of God, but if defiles the atoning work of the Savior. who are actively trying to make that an they are, that judgment is on all of Make no mistake: All people have sinned alternative lifestyle, the ACLU, People for America—including me and all fellow sin- and have fallen short of God’s aim for our the American Way— all of them who have ners—and not on any particular group.” lives. No human sacrifice, not even almost tried to secularize America—I point the fin- Even in apology, Falwell’s theology is 6,000 victims of terrorism, can bridge the ger in their face and say, ‘You helped this found wanting. chasm between God and us that sin eroded. happen.’” The central idea of his first claim— Only Christ is sufficient. Although an ACLU spokesperson said, which he did not retract, even in his apol- Falwell should have known better. MBN Sets National Convocation For February in Charlotte The Mainstream Baptist Network (MBN) will feature “A Firm Foundation of Freedom” as its theme at its 1st annual national convocation, Feb. 15-16, 2002. It will be held at the Sheraton Charlotte Airport Hotel, 3315 South I-85 at Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28208. The room rate will be $79.00 night for a single, double, triple or quad room. Make reservations by calling 704-392-1200 or 800-325-3535. Full program features and other information will be available soon, but some speakers are already known — Walter Draughn, pastor, First Baptist Church, St. Petersburg, Fla.; Bill Wilson, pastor, First Baptist Church, Waynesboro, Va.; Becky Matheny, director, Baptist Heritage Council of Georgia; Phil Lineberger, pastor, Williams Trace Baptist Church, Sugar Land, Texas; and David Currie, MBN consultant, and executive director, Texas Baptists Committed. For Convocation updates call MBN at 915-659-4102 or check the Mainstream website at www.mainstreambaptists.org — 17 — SBTC leaders insist article on Buckner “public relations ter- That mailing included a letter, brochure rorism.” and audio tape—all promoting attendance they're not recruiting The Southern Baptist Texan is mailed at the SBTC’s annual meeting, which is without charge to 17,000 people every scheduled for the same dates as the BGCT By Mark Wingfield month, said Editor Gary Ledbetter. Addi- annual session. Managing Editor tionally, 300 churches receive bulk ship- The BGCT will meet in Dallas, while DALLAS—Leaders of the Southern ments for distribution. SBTC has scheduled its meeting 30 miles Baptists of Texas Convention—formed as The mailing list includes thousands of away in Fort Worth. a fundamentalist alternative to the Baptist pastors and leaders in BGCT churches that In the letter, Richards invites pastors of General Convention of Texas—insist they have no affiliation with the SBTC. unaffiliated churches to attend the SBTC’s are not recruiting churches to leave the This does not amount to proselytizing, annual meeting as his guest. BGCT. Ledbetter insisted, although he added he In the audio tape, he never mentions the “The officers and staff of the SBTC have did not know how the current mailing list BGCT by name. He gives a brief history of not become involved in a plan to increase was developed. the SBTC and outlines his convention’s core the ranks,” convention President Rudy “If we are mailing to churches that are values. A strong emphasis is given to the Hernandez wrote in the October issue of not affiliated with the SBTC, that is not SBTC’s affirmation of biblical inerrancy, the Southern Baptist Texan, the something we have begun since I came here which was the rallying cry for fundamen- talists who captured control of the SBC in convention’s magazine. “They have re- six months ago,” he said. the 1980s and ’90s. sponded to requests from churches for in- The glossy four-color magazine is pro- Richards explains that the SBTC has formation either by mail or in person and duced and mailed with funding from the adopted the SBC’s 2000 version of the Bap- SBTC budget, some advertising revenue have been kept busy responding to the re- tist Faith & Message as its doctrinal state- and donations from individuals and quests so that there has been no need for ment. Churches seeking affiliation with churches, he said. proselytizing. SBTC are “not expected to adopt the Bap- “Individuals who may have sought out Most donations come from within Texas, tist Faith & Message 2000” but do have to others to become a part of the SBTC have but some come from beyond the state, he “affirm” it, he says, explaining that “af- done so at their own discretion,” he added. acknowledged. However, the magazine re- firm” means the church “is in agreement This claim is not true, according to ceives no financial support from the South- with and not opposed to” the statement. Ken Hall, president of Buckner Baptist Be- ern Baptist Convention, he said. The BGCT in annual session has de- nevolences, an agency of the BGCT. One week after the October issue of the clined to affirm the 2000 version of the Publication of an article critical of Southern Baptist Texan arrived in mailboxes Baptist Faith & Message, citing concerns Buckner in the October issue of the South- with the assertion by Hernandez that the with omission of key phrases such as “The ern Baptist Texan was a direct effort to convention was not proselytizing, pastors criterion by which the Bible is to be inter- recruit churches by raising doubts about of BGCT-affiliated churches received an- preted is Jesus Christ” in the revised ver- both Buckner and the BGCT, he charged. other mailing from Jim Richards, execu- sion. Instead, the BGCT has continued to He called the SBTC magazine and its tive director of the breakaway convention. affirm the 1963 Baptist Faith & Message.

…Ground Zero, continued from page 11 the church and the state from the cor- on and our churches filled. You saw a city Bus Terminal. When disaster struck, the rupting influence of too close a bond. that no terrorist could destroy, a city built staff put up signs offering a place to come We owe it to those who died, and to those of creativity and freedom, a city based on and pray, or talk, or just sit. who survived, to work to keep religious an overwhelming belief in the value of hu- In the early afternoon a man came in, faith a moral boundary for the government, man talent. shaking. He asked if he could stay. and never a moral license to commit inhu- David Waugh, the pastor, said, “Of This isn’t the first time in history that course.” man acts in God’s name. zealots have used secular power to But I learned something else as well: But the man said, “You don’t under- the importance of the invisible city. We make their prayers a reality, when it stand. I am a Muslim.” have heard sermons about building up trea- appeared that God did not intend to And David said, “This is God’s house and you are welcome here.” sure in heaven. But we can build up trea- do so any time soon. That night about 35 people slept on the sure on earth, a treasure that is harder to Already I am hearing people say that floor of Metro’s sanctuary: Muslim, Ger- destroy than any building. they will not let fear and anger destroy that man Lutheran, Baptists and others. They In New York City that treasure has been part of our city. We will not finish the ter- were the family of God, and they were obscured by the giant buildings, but you rorists’ work for them. That same fierce home. saw it on September 11. You saw it when drive should be part of our national will, as Our new associate minister, Marti Will- world-class chefs served gourmet food un- well. We cannot let fear and anger turn us iams, said later that although everyone is der makeshift tents to rescue workers, when into accomplices after the fact, destroying calling for a return to normalcy, she’s hop- steel workers came from every construc- the freedoms that so angered our enemies. ing for continued “abnormalcy” – like the tion site in the city without a call, when abnormal amount of caring and decency fire fighters charged into burning buildings God’s House – a Home for All and community she saw that night. that were raining flaming debris. You saw One more story. Metro Baptist Church That’s not a bad lesson for anyone these it in the following days, as plays went back is across the street from the Port Authority days. — 18 — Missouri in Turmoil

By Mark Wingfield not by the convention as a whole, state that have been willing and faithful in their ser- Fundamentalists who last year gained all candidates for nomination or renomina- vice. It is a huge loss to these institutions control of the Missouri Baptist Convention tion must be “supportive” of both the state in the long run.” are working quickly to replace trustees of convention and the SBC. Further, the com- Hill wrote a column in the Aug. 2 Word state convention agencies and members of mittee determined that no church should be & Way sounding a second alarm over the the convention’s Executive Board with in- allowed to have more than two members nominating committee’s actions. The pro- dividuals deemed more loyal to their cause. serving concurrently anywhere within the cess used by the committee “does not seem At the same time, efforts are under way convention’s committees or boards and that to reflect a spirit of integrity and fairness,” to require all Missouri Baptist Convention no individual should serve on more than he charged. churches to affirm the new direction of the one board at the same time. Southern Baptist Convention and the Bap- The restrictions were billed by the com- Executive Director Ignored tist Faith & Message statement. mittee as an effort to ensure broader par- Not only were Executive Board mem- State convention Executive Director ticipation. Critics of the changes see the bers eligible for renomination discarded Jim Hill, who moderates believe has been committee’s guidelines as an effort to bump without explanation, but also Hill’s own targeted for ouster by the fundamentalists, non-fundamentalists off committees and recommendations for members to fill six has warned that perhaps 200 churches could boards. other slots were ignored. The committee leave the convention if the fundamentalist- Both Hill and Bill Webb, editor of the did not seek to collect profile information mandated changes take place. Missouri Word & Way newspaper, strongly on those recommended by Hill, he reported. “The administrative subcommittee was Texas and Virginia in Reverse criticized the committee’s self-made guide- lines, charging that the committee was vio- not even given their names, nor was it told That opens the possibility that Missouri lating the convention’s bylaws. that I had made recommendations for their could experience the reverse of what has When the nominating committee met to consideration,” Hill wrote. “My own rec- happened in Texas and Virginia, where fun- make nominations July 26, it went beyond ommendations should not be given more damentalist churches have left existing state even its own rules, however, according to a weight than those submitted by other Mis- conventions to form new, more conserva- report in the Word & Way. According to souri Baptists, but I believe they at least tive conventions. No formal plans have been those present for the meeting, the commit- should be considered.” announced by any group of Missouri Bap- tee voted to bump eight of the 12 individu- If the committee’s slate of nominees is tist churches related to formation of a new als eligible for re-election to a customary adopted by the convention, knowledgeable convention there, although the matter is re- second term on the Executive Board. Two observers believe the Executive Board will ported to be a frequent topic of private con- of the 12 had declined to serve a second have a majority of members hostile toward versation. term, meaning the committee will retain Hill. That, they predict, could lead to his Three Missouri Baptist Convention only two of 12 members eligible for re- firing or forced resignation. agencies already have voted to remove election. Marus Debunked Committee themselves from control of the state con- Likewise, all four trustees of the Word Rob Marus, coordinator of Mainstream vention, and several others are expected to & Way who were eligible for re-election Missouri Baptists, wrote a commentary for consider similar action before the state con- were replaced. Only one of those was the August issue of his organization’s news- vention meets this fall. deemed ineligible by the committee’s guide- paper debunking the nominating committee’s The agencies that have declared them- lines. No explanation was given for remov- assertion that its new guidelines are intended selves to have self-perpetuating boards cited ing the other three other than an attempt to to broaden involvement. liability issues as the primary reason for put “new blood” on the board. their actions. But those close to the situa- “The P.R. nonsense about ‘broadening tion report that a desire to distance their Missouri Mainstream Speaks Out the tent’ was just a fig-leaf to cover the institutions from the turmoil of the state The Baptist Voice, newspaper of Main- committee’s real motivation: They wanted convention also was a factor. stream Missouri Baptists, reported in its to, as quickly as possible, deny all who Trustees of Missouri Baptist College and August issue that overall the committee de- disagreed with any part of the fundamen- Windermere Baptist Conference Center clined to renominate at least 24 people who talist agenda the ability to participate in the have voted to create self-perpetuating were eligible for renomination. leadership of the Missouri Baptist Conven- boards, following the lead of The Baptist It quoted minority members of the nomi- tion,” Marus charged. “A simple analysis Home, a retirement home ministry. nating committee expressing frustration of their recent actions betrays the Meanwhile, the state convention’s com- over the process as well. committee’s true motivations: A system of mittee on nominations has taken even more “Our (sub)committee was given a list political rewards.” drastic action than previously predicted in with all the names filled in before we ever Meanwhile, a fundamentalist-controlled preparing this year’s slate of nominees for started. It was all pretty much pre-arranged, committee of the Missouri Baptist Conven- committee and board positions. railroaded,” said Wayne Bartee, a mem- tion plans to recommend at the fall con- The committee earlier had announced ber of University Heights Baptist Church vention that all churches desiring to be af- its intention to create requirements for ser- in Springfield. “I think they are making a filiated with the state convention must be vice apart from what is stipulated in the big mistake with this kind of approach. It in “single alignment” with the SBC and convention’s bylaws. The new require- is a wholesale dismissal of people who have must affirm either the 1963 or 2000 Bap- ments, adopted only by the committee and shown an interest, who have expertise, who continued on page 20… — 19 — Turmoil, from page 19… ters, videos and other materials highly criti- tist Faith & Message. cal of moderate Baptists, the Cooperative The recommended constitutional amend- Baptist Fellowship, the Baptist General IMB trustees ment comes from a committee on continu- Convention of Texas, Baptist Joint Com- ing review and the credentials committee. mittee, Texas Baptists Committed, and extend BF&M The two committees were charged with Mainstream Baptists. studying membership issues last year after Critics have accused Moran of employ- policy two churches that had left the SBC sought ing “guilt by association” in his campaign. to have messengers seated at the state con- For example, he purports to link moderate vention. Baptist leaders with pro-homosexual and IMB trustees slightly ad- Although the proposed constitutional pro-abortion causes because they have justed their policy on the amendment would have to be introduced at served on non-Baptist boards or commit- this year’s annual meeting and could not tees alongside individuals who advocate Baptist Faith and Message. be ratified until the 2002 annual meeting, homosexual causes or abortion rights. The policy, adopted in the credentials committee has interpreted Moran and other Fundamentalist lead- the current wording to have the same ef- ers reported on their progress at the Aug. January, requires asking mis- 14 annual meeting of Project 1000 sup- fect. Therefore, the committee will en- sionary candidates to state force the requirement of alignment with porters. the SBC beginning this year. In addition to comments from Moran, whether they are in agree- the meeting featured reports from both the According to a Word & Way report, Hill ment with the Baptist Faith warned the committees they were creating chairman of the Missouri Baptist Conven- a “connectionalism” that flies in the face of tion nominating committee, Jeff Purvis, and Message and to explain Baptist autonomy. The proposed consti- and the chairman of the convention’s cre- dentials committee, David Tolliver. tutional change could drive 100 to 200 any area of difference. It Tolliver also gave a report on behalf of the churches out of the convention, he pre- committee on continuing review, whose requires new missionaries dicted. chairman, Benny King, was unable to at- Several members of the continuing re- and elected leaders to sign tend. view committee strongly disagreed with Purvis reiterated his defense of the nomi- statements affirming their Hill’s assessment. One accused Hill of be- nating committee’s new guidelines. “It is ing in a conspiracy with his pastor to create agreement with the recently time that we don’t have a ‘good old boy’ an alternative state convention. network anymore in the Missouri Baptist revised Baptist Faith and “Approve or Else” Convention,” he said. Message and committing Webb, editor of the Word & Way, wrote According to a report in The Baptist an editorial in the Aug. 2 issue warning of Voice, Purvis openly criticized Hill, who themselves to carry out their was present, for expressing his opinion that dangers in the proposed constitutional responsibilities “in accor- amendment. “The problem with a require- the nominating committee had violated the ment to affirm either of the two versions of convention’s bylaws. dance with and not contrary the Baptist Faith & Message is that it places “Not once were we directed to the part the state convention in the position of tell- of the MBC constitution and bylaws that to” the statement of faith. ing churches to ‘approve or else,’” he wrote. the guidelines violated because they did Trustees voted to include The Missouri convention has been in not,” Purvis said. turmoil for at least three years, although Purvis received a standing ovation from IMB associate vice presi- strife has escalated within the last year. Fun- the crowd of about 120 people, according dents in the policy because damentalists have won the last three presi- to the newspaper. dential elections and within the last year Tolliver reasserted the credentials of their leadership responsi- committee’s interpretation of the have solidified control over key commit- convention’s constitution. “In order to be a bilities, even though they are tees. Missouri Baptist church, you must first be When given an opportunity to take a not under the selection au- a Southern Baptist church,” he said. severance package as part of a staff re- In his report on behalf of the continuing thority of the board. Trust- organization late last year, one-fourth of review committee, Tolliver also defended the state convention’s staff resigned or ees also voted that they the proposed constitutional amendment that retired. Many of those departures were would require churches to affirm the Bap- themselves would sign the reported to be related to the ongoing con- tist Faith & Message. flict. This does not amount to creedalism, he same statement being re- Roger Moran and “Guilt By asserted. “This statement does not ask any- quired of missionary candi- Association” one to sign anything. It does not ask any- The fundamentalist movement in Mis- one to adhere to or adopt anything. It says dates. souri has been fueled by a political effort ‘affirm.’” called Project 1000, led by layman Roger Mark Wingfield is managing editor of the [excerpt of Baptist Moran. Moran has gained nationwide no- Baptist Standard, news publication of Standard article, 9/21/01] toriety for publishing a series of newslet- Texas Baptists. — 20 — My Bible is true by Duke McCall, SBTS President are infallible. with the help of all the theological scholars (1956-1981) Any talk about the inerrant, infallible, the world can produce. I will be grateful to My Bible is true and trustworthy. It is verbally inspired Scripture, truth without those scholars who help me while ignoring the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice. any mixture of error, must take account of those who do not. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God the problems of textual differences and and thereby I can know who God is and translation. Some who use this language We may use all of the strong what he has done and what his intentions do so apparently intending to deceive by language we want about the are for me in my world. not making it clear that they are really talk- original autographs of the Bible, Is your Bible true? I do not mean the ing about the original copy or original au- original autograph. I mean the copy you tograph of each book of the Bible and not a but my faith can survive with the have and use. I mean whichever text of the Bible available today. Holy Scripture available to Old Testament or the New Testament or For a thousand years no one has seen me today. whichever translation you actually study. any original autograph of each book of the Bible. The earliest copies of the New Tes- If God had thought I needed an iner- If God had thought I needed an tament available to us are in the library of rant, infallible, verbally inspired copy of inerrant, infallible, verbally the Vatican or the British Museum and were the Bible, he would have preserved the inspired copy of the Bible, he made about AD 400. They are not exactly original text on a golden tablet. God has alike. not left me without anything necessary for would have preserved the original That is why I am concerned about the my salvation. We may use all of the strong text on a golden tablet. emphasis on something not now avail- language we want about the original au- This is important because there are those able to us. Surely the original autograph tographs of the Bible, but my faith can who say that the Bible loses its authority is not the only Bible we can trust. survive with the Holy Scripture avail- and becomes relatively useless unless it is I am not talking about a Bible which able to me today. The differences in the verbally inspired, inerrant, and infallible, used to exist. I am talking about the Bibles ancient texts are not all that great. truth without any mixture of error. That is on your and my bookshelf—Hebrew, Please do not put any barriers against strong language, stronger than the language Greek, German, French, Latin, English, the faith of simple Christians who assume of the Baptist Faith and Message adopted Russian—each one has truth without any that the Holy Spirit can guide them into the by the Southern Baptist Convention in 1925 mixture of error for its matter. It is the truth with any copy of the Bible that hap- and again in 1963. Obviously such language authoritative revelation of God; it is the pens to be handy. Let those among us who cannot be applied to The Living Bible, for rule of faith and practice; it is the source of are helped thereby discuss the infallibility the translator tells us that he has produced my knowledge of salvation; it has intro- of the original autographs, but let scholars a paraphrase rather than an exact transla- duced me to the God and Father of our keep working to produce better copies of tion. Neither is the popular Good News for Lord, Jesus Christ. the Bible in English for some of us to use Modern Man an exact translation, for it, I am aware of the mistakes the copyists in our daily living. too, is partially paraphrase. Scholars have made in ancient manuscripts. I am aware After all, even an original autograph also argued about specific portions of the of scholarly limitations and prejudices and would require the interpretation of the translation in the King James Version, the the theological blindness of some transla- Holy Spirit to make it come alive as Revised Standard Version, and the New tors. Yet, my Bible is true. I am going to God’s Word in my life. Indeed, the Holy English Version. Not one of these is pre- live by it; I am going to die believing it and Spirit is the agent of the infallible, redeem- cisely accurate without any mixture of er- trusting the Savior I have found through it; ing truth, which permeates my thought, ror. I am going to live eternally with the God mind, and hard heart. Thank you, God, for Perhaps you use the Hebrew text of the who inspired it. my Bible and for the Holy Spirit who makes Old Testament. Do you use the Hebrew In the meantime I am going to study it it the living Word within me. text without the vowels or do you use the YES! I want to join much later eight century AD Massoretic ■ $35 Regular Membership vowel pointed text, or do you prefer the Texas Baptists Committed! Septuagint? Name ______For the New Testament, do you prefer ■ Lay Person ■ Church/Denominational Worker the Westcott and Hort Greek text, the Nestle’s Greek text, or the United Bible Address ______Societies’ text? Do you prefer any of the City/State/Zip ______footnotes to the main text? Home Phone ( ______)______The scholars have had a hand in estab- lishing each of these original language texts Work Phone ( ______) ______of the Old and New Testament, not to men- Church ______Association______tion the translations. I have great confi- Mail Form and Check to: Texas Baptists Committed, P.O. Box 3330, San Angelo, Texas 76902-3330 dence in scholars, but I do not think they — 21 — Editorial: Holding widows and orphans hostage

Imagine someone tossing your grand- peated time after time by Baptist Press and mother out of her home. Or refusing to surrogates of the leadership of Southern provide medical care to your pregnant sis- Baptists of Texas. Their “modus operandi” ter. Or turning his back on an abused and is guilt by association. If they can convince neglected child. Texas Baptists that somehow the BGCT is By Marv Knox That’s the sum of an attack on Buckner “liberal” and not worthy of trust—not in its in the state. Imagine the ramifications if Baptist Benevolences by Baptist Press, the own right, but through circumstantial asso- such defamatory propaganda leads Texas public relations arm of the Southern Bap- ciation with suspect organizations—then Baptists and their churches to reduce their tist Convention, and the Southern Baptist they can build up the competing state con- support for Buckner. That’s where the re- Texan, the public relations magazine of the vention. However, their “modus” is bogus. jection of the aged, pregnant teenagers and Southern Baptists of Texas Convention. A Don’t doubt the misleading. BP abused children comes in. Buckner already news story on this grievous episode ap- receives more requests for aid than it can pears on page 3. defenders claim its stories fulfill. So, every dollar diverted from The Baptist Press article, also featured contain facts, but the in the Texan’s October issue, repeatedly presentations are designed to lead The BP/Texan story led longtime connects Buckner with Planned Parenthood, readers to false conclusions. Buckner supporters to question a nationwide organization linked to abor- the fidelity and credibility of one tion. Anyone who knows Buckner realizes of the most faithful, reliable People come to Christ because of it is one of the most outstanding Chris- abortion-preventing organizations Buckner. If BP and the Southern tian organizations in Texas or any state. Pregnant girls carry their babies to term in the state. Imagine the Baptist Texan will mislead you and give them to adoptive families because ramifications if such defamatory about Buckner, just imagine what of Buckner. Battered and abused children propaganda leads Texas Baptists else they’ll mislead you about. find safety, protection, nurture and love be- and their churches to reduce their cause of Buckner. Broken families discover support for Buckner. Never mind that Buckner’s Children and reconciliation because of Buckner. Un- Family Services center in Amarillo and the skilled single mothers learn how to earn a Buckner creates even greater need among local Planned Parenthood facility were only living and raise their children because of those Jesus called “the least of these.” As two of 24 sponsors of an abstinence pro- Buckner. Needy senior adults live out their Buckner President Ken Hall notes, “This gram for children. Never mind that other days in safety with dignity because of attack won’t hurt Buckner so much as it sponsors included the American Red Cross, Buckner. People come to Christ because of will harm the most vulnerable residents of Big Brothers and Big Sisters, several health Buckner. If BP and the Southern Baptist Texas.” care providers and numerous churches. Texan will mislead you about Buckner, just And that’s a very important reason the Never mind Planned Parenthood in Ama- imagine what else they’ll mislead you slander has to stop. You may be weary of rillo does not provide abortions. Never mind about. the Standard reporting stories like this. the Amarillo Buckner facility is a leader in Don’t doubt the misleading. BP de- We’re weary too. But this newspaper’s birth-mother referrals for adoptions. Never fenders claim its stories contain facts, but board of directors and staff have consid- mind that exposure at these kinds of pro- the presentations are designed to lead read- ered our calling, and we resolutely agree grams increases community awareness of ers to false conclusions. Here are comments you must know what is happening. Buckner so the Baptist organization can Texas Baptists wrote to Buckner after read- The time has come for Morris Chapman, minister to out-of-wedlock birth mothers, ing the BP story: “We have always sup- president of the SBC Executive Committee enabling more adoptions instead of abor- ported and hosted the (Buckner) Christmas and publisher of Baptist Press, and Jim tions. Just never mind the truth. lunch … to raise funds, but in light of your Richards, executive director of Southern Instead, the story leads readers to be- support for Planned Parenthood, I think we Baptists of Texas, to publicly disavow this lieve Buckner recklessly partners with will re-think our position. This grieves my practice and command their employees to an abortion provider. Therefore, its rea- heart that Buckner would partner with an cease and desist. The Standard stands ready soning goes, Buckner is not trustworthy. abortion supporter,” one pastor wrote. “I to publish in full any pledge Chapman and Buckner does not deserve your support. And am concerned in your yoking to Planned Richards give to stop the slander of BGCT if Buckner, one of the Baptist General Con- Parenthood, … a group that profits from ministries. If they will not do so, they are vention of Texas’ crown jewels, is unwor- abortion,” another said. “I want to go on as guilty of the malice as the staff members thy, then the BGCT somehow must be cor- record as opposing Buckner’s partnership who produce the stories. If they will not, rupt and does not deserve your support. So, with Planned Parenthood,” another stated. they are accountable for the damage they this article implies, your church should The BP/Texan story led longtime do to fine institutions like Buckner, the host leave the BGCT and affiliate with South- Buckner supporters to question the fidelity of ministries sponsored by the BGCT and ern Baptists of Texas. and credibility of one of the most faithful, God’s children—like grandparents, preg- Unfortunately, this pattern has been re- reliable abortion-preventing organizations nant teenagers and abused children. — 22 — Georgia Baptist executive threatens to “shut down” women in ministry meeting if pro-SBC guidelines not met

By John Pierce support of CBF;” make negative remarks initially rescheduled their meeting for Camp Executive Editor, Baptists Today about the GBC or SBC; promote women Pinnacle, a north Georgia facility owned ATLANTA—Baptist Women in Minis- pastors “in deference to the 2000 Baptist and operated by Woman’s Missionary try of Georgia moved their Oct. 26-27 meet- Faith and Message as approved by the Union of Georgia, and where previous ing from a Georgia Baptist Convention con- (SBC) and (GBC):” or use “strange com- BWIM of Ga. meetings have been held. ference center to a local church after re- munication about ‘Mother God,’ ‘Goddess But to avoid another potential clash, the ceiving a letter from GBC Executive Di- Sophia’ or any such thing.” meeting was finally moved to the First Bap- rector Robert White threatening to shut The latter prohibition referred to a Bap- tist Church of Morrow, Ga. down the meeting if participants affirmed tist Press account of a national women in Georgia WMU leader Barbara Curnutt women pastors or spoke negatively about ministry gathering this summer just prior was reportedly informed by convention the Southern Baptist Convention. to the CBF assembly in Atlanta. The leadership that it would not be in the best “The (GBC) administrative committee group’s use of feminine descriptions of God interest of WMU to host the event. A few was gravely concerned and even angered was criticized by some Southern Baptists. years ago the GBC administration commit- about our hosting this conference at Norman While White has publicly opposed re- tee approved funds to enable Georgia WMU Park,” said White in a Sept. 12 letter to quiring GBC staff to endorse the contro- to retire the debt on a new building at the Laura Willis, administrator of Baptist Re- versial 2000 BF&M, he warned any “pro- camp. tirement Communities of Georgia and a motion of women as senior pastors” during Wendy Joyner, pastor of Fellowship BWIM member. the women in ministry meeting “would be Baptist Church in Americus, Ga., is presi- White informed Willis that, in an effort a frontal attack on the (SBC) and (GBC).” dent of the BWIM of Georgia. At her urg- “to calm the concerns in our committee,” Both conventions have adopted the revised ing, the group decided to meet in the south- he was sending his executive assistant Fran doctrinal statement that denies the pastoral ern part of the state this year and, there- Waymack to monitor the conference office to women. fore, had made reservations at the GBC- “should anything untoward occur in the White also indicated that the fundamen- owned conference center‚—a former col- meeting.” talist-controlled committee had expressed lege campus site—in rural Norman Park. White said Waymack and conference “great concern” about guest speaker Molly Joyner said the group’s steering com- center director Bill Townes were instructed Marshall of Central Baptist Seminary in mittee plan to meet just prior to the annual “to shut the meeting down immediately” if Kansas City, Kan., a former theology pro- meeting and draft a formal response to participants mention or promote the Coop- fessor who left Southern Baptist Seminary White’s letter. erative Baptist Fellowship; distribute ma- in Louisville, Ky., after conservative trust- (Reprinted by permission from Baptists Today, terials which mention CBF for fund rais- ees brought in Albert Mohler as president. an autonomous national news journal. To ing; show a “tone of sympathy or general After receiving White’s letter, the group subscribe call toll-free 1-877-752-5658.) TBC Breakfast Oct. 30, 7 a.m. Please send in the form below with your check to reserve your place at our annual TBC breakfast. Your ticket request and check should be mailed to the Texas Baptists Committed Office, P. O. Box 3330, San Angelo, Texas 76902-3330. Tickets are $20. The breakfast begins at 7:00 a.m. at the Adam’s Mark Hotel, Dallas. Bill Wilson, co-chair of the Network of Mainstream Baptists, will be the speaker.

Name ______RESERVATION Address ______FORM City, State, Zip ______Church ______TBC ANNUAL Daytime Phone Number ______Enclosed is a check for $______for ______tickets at $20 per plate to the BREAKFAST Texas Baptists Committed Annual Breakfast featuring Bill Wilson on Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at the Adam’s Mark, Dallas at 7 a.m. Return this form with your check to TBC, P.O. Box 3330, San Angelo, TX 76902-3330. (915-659-4102)

— 23 — KEYKEY TIMESTIMES FORFOR THETHE BGCTBGCT TEXAS BAPTISTS COMMITTED P.O. BOX 3330, SAN ANGELO, TX 76902 MONDAY: OCTOBER 29 915-659-4102 • FAX 915-655-3603 MONDAY: OCTOBER 29 www.txbc.org 1:15 p.m. Seating of messengers DR. HERBERT H. REYNOLDS Committee on Order of Business Chair DR. RON COOK 2:10 p.m. Executive Board Report Vice-Chair MR. RON ELLISON Budget presentation/vote Secretary DR. ED HOGAN Mission Sending Agencies Final Report Treasurer DR. DAVID R. CURRIE 4:35 p.m. Election of Officers: President Executive Director 7:15 p.m. Election of Officers: First Vice President VICKY TRUSDLE Associate Executive Director 8:20 p.m. President’s Message: Clyde Glazener and Newsletter Editor COLLEEN TAYLOR-MARTIN 8:50 p.m. Election of Officers: Second Vice Copy Editor President TEXAS BAPTISTS COMMITTED TUESDAY:TUESDAY: OCTOBEROCTOBER 3030 BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2001 7:00 a.m. Texas Baptists Committed Breakfast Howard Batson, Amarillo 9:50 a.m. Election of Officers Michael Bell, Fort Worth Amelia Bishop, Austin 10:25 a.m. Miscellaneous Business Bill Brian, Amarillo Rudy Camacho, Fort Worth 11:10 a.m. Convention Sermon: Ron Cook, Brownwood 11:45 a.m. Vote on Resolutions James C. Denison, Dallas Dean Dickens, Garland Tuesday afternoon: Ron Ellison, Beaumont Texas Baptist Men and Clyde Glazener, Fort Worth Texas Woman’s Missionary Union Ed Hogan, Houston Phil Lineberger, Sugar Land 7:45 p.m. Special Missions Program Jerold McBride, San Angelo Jaclanel McFarland, Spring Albert Reyes, San Antonio Herbert Reynolds, Waco Robert Sloan, Waco MISSION STATEMENT OF TEXAS BAPTISTS COMMITTED John Cash Smith, Orange Texas Baptists Committed is dedicated to reach people for Christ through local Bob Stephenson, Norman, OK Phil Strickland, Dallas churches, to uphold historic Baptist principles, and to cooperate with the Bill Tillman, Abilene mission of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and its related institutions. John G. Wilkerson, Lubbock Sandra Magee Womack, Pasadena The TBC Newsletter is a periodical published and mailed six times a year to churches in Texas and to all Baptists Committed members and supporters. You may be on several lists. If you get two newsletters, please pass one along to a friend. Send Address changes to: P.O. Box 3330, San Angelo, Texas 76902-3330.

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

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