June 5, 2000
TOGETHER:
Articles help describe role of BGCT executive director
___In last week's Baptist Standard, there were three articles that help define what I do.
___The first was the story concerning my inauguration as executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. It was a glorious time of blessing and challenge for Rosemary and me. We take up this task with a deep sense of calling and obligation. We are grateful for the wonderful expressions of support and prayers that have come from across the state. You have made us feel welcome and loved. We deeply appreciate your partnership in the gospel God has given us to share.
Charles Wade
Executive Director
BGCT Executive Board
___The Executive Board, convention officers, our staff, members of First Baptist Church in Arlington and our family all went out of their way to make this a day Rosemary and I will never forget. Thank you so very much.
___The second article described the work of the Executive Board, led by Rudy Sanchez. Reports of committees that are hard at work were outlined. The decision to escrow funds for Houston Baptist University until our partnership can be better defined was approved. A clean audit was received with commendations for our staff and convention for the accountability that is demonstrated year after year. We move forward managing the requirements of good administration, responding to change and marching with genuine excitement into the mission fields of Texas and the world.
___The third article reported my response to the Baptist Faith & Message revisions to be voted upon at the Southern Baptist Convention in Orlando, Fla., June 14. There are some things in the proposed revision I believe to be good, but there are concerns, which I detailed in that interview.
___I believe any Baptist statement of faith should clearly affirm soul competency, the priesthood of the believer and local church autonomy, and it should make it clear that Christ is our guide for interpreting the Bible. As a Baptist ought to do when he or she has a concern, I will be at the SBC to offer an amendment, which I hope will be a unifying word for Southern Baptists.
___Theology is important to Christians. Baptist theology is very important to Baptists. We are grateful God has given us the Bible, the Holy Spirit, the example of Jesus Christ and minds touched by his grace so we can understand and communicate the truths of God to our world. Theology is worthy of careful discussion among believers, and all Baptists want to have a part in expressing the Baptist vision to a world that desperately needs what the Holy Spirit has taught us through the holy Scriptures.
___Please pray for God to guide Baptists in all we do. The world will take notice of what is said and how it is said. Baptists across the world will be affected by decisions made regarding this historic document. It is no small matter.
___What can you do regarding all this? Pray. Read the document carefully and compare it with previous statements. You can find texts of the 1925, 1963 and 2000 Baptist Faith & Message statements on the Internet, www.sbc.net/2000_report.html. Our office has copies of the 1963 Baptist Faith & Message, which includes the preamble, and they can be ordered at our convention address: 333 North Washington, Dallas 75246. Discuss these issues with Baptist friends, and pay attention to views expressed so you can be informed. Attend the convention, if possible, to vote your conviction.
___My daddy used to say, "An informed Baptist is a cooperating Baptist."
___Brothers and sisters ...
___We are loved.
___
Send this story to a friend
Contents/ Masthead / Why We're Here / Links / Archive / E-mail us/ SUBSCRIBE!
