TOGETHER:
Pray, pay attention as crucial decisions are made
___The question has been raised several times: "Why don't Texas Baptists go ahead and get a divorce from the Southern Baptist Convention?" The question is often followed by: "This is so painful. Make a clean break and be done with it."
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CHARLES WADE
Executrive Director
BGCT Executive Board
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___That is a question that comes out of a well of hurt. Many younger Baptists have been through the divorce of parents, and some of them are saying this continuing disagreement between Texas Baptists and Southern Baptists feels like parents divorcing. Every effort should be made and every possible means of restoring trust and a meaningful partnership should be explored.
___Some have pointed out, "We've never been married to the SBC, so how could there be a divorce?" While that is true, it still does not address the frustration many Baptists feel.
___In one sense, there can be no divorce in Baptist convention life. The only schism possible in Baptist life is within the local church. There we have an essential and organic unity, for we are members of the Body of Christ (Romans 12:5, 1 Corinthians12:12). We are part of a body of believers, not a bunch of people loosely gathered. In our state and national conventions, the relationship is organizational, not organic. We are called to treasure and protect our relationships, show honor and respect, cooperate with one another in missions and evangelism, as well as educational and benevolent efforts that advance the kingdom of God.
___The Baptist General Convention of Texas has sought to work with Southern Baptists under as big an umbrella as possible.
___The actions of the Executive Board of the BGCT last week are the result of careful study. The proposals represent thoughtful, passionate response to crucial needs in Texas.
___Our future ministers must be able to study at Logsdon, Truett or Southwestern seminaries at comparable tuition cost. The BGCT Executive Board is recommending to Texas churches that we increase our efforts to educate young ministers, respond to the growing Hispanic needs in Texas, plant churches and increase our support to families and children in crisis throughout our state.
___Each church will need to study the reports carefully and make the best decisions possible.
___Whatever decisions you make will be honored by the BGCT, and we will forward your money as you direct us. Texas Baptists have always respected the local church's right and responsibility to make these decisions.
___No change is suggested regarding our gifts to the International Mission Board and to the North American Mission Board. All these monies are to be given as they have been given. The committee working with the mission-sending agencies is hopeful that issues of concern can be resolved. We want to continue being full partners with Southern Baptist missionaries.
___One of the things a state convention can offer to its cooperating churches is the benefit of careful study so that local churches have access to information and concerns that they might have no other way of knowing. Our committees have been willing to ask the difficult questions and find the hard-to-find answers. Now each church can evaluate the recommendations and make its own decision.
___We stand ready to visit with Southern Baptist leaders to see if there are ways that improvements can be made in the way we relate to one another. But Texas Baptists are tired of the politics. We want to get on with reaching Texas and partnering with all those of good will who want to help the peoples of this world know Jesus Christ.
___Pray and pay attention. Things may be getting better.
___We are loved.
The Baptist Standard
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