September 25, 2000
TOGETHER:
Texas Baptists face options regarding difficult issues
___Last week in this space, I raised the question: "What are our options in dealing with the difficult issues in Baptist life?" I mentioned the importance of prayer, asking God for wisdom (James 1:5) and for courage (Joshua 1:6-9).
___These matters are painful for our pastors and people, for our local churches and associations, for all Baptist institutions and their leaders. No one can be happy that thecontroversy has refused to go away and still claims so much of our attention.
CHARLES WADE
Exxecutive Director
BGCT Executive Board
___In so much as I can, I want to help us get through these days of charges and counter-charges, so that we can get on with God's work in the world. Specifically, I want to help Texas Baptists get out of this controversy so that we can focus on being who we are--a loving family of faith seeking to be the presence of Jesus in Texas, embracing others and hugging this state up close to God.
___Now, how do we go about that? What are our options?
___Option 1: We could decide there is no problem, no real differences between the Southern Baptist Convention and Baptist General Convention of Texas understanding of Baptist doctrine and principles of cooperation. The evidence says otherwise.
___Option 2: We could admit there is a controversy and complain because we don't like people to disagree, but do nothing concrete to attempt to resolve the issues.
___Option 3: We could pray, but do nothing else. A deacon years ago in Cliff Temple Baptist Church in Dallas in prayer meeting prayed eloquently on behalf of a neighboring family in need of food and assistance. Suddenly, he paused, then continued: "Lord, you don't need to worry about that family. As soon as we get out of here, I'm going to the store and buy enough food to last them a month!" Prayers work best when we are willing to work with God, in so far as we can, to find a solution.
___Option 4: We could appeal for change. That we have done. Over the years, many Southern Baptists have appealed to SBC leaders to cease their attacks, to reach out to fellow Baptists who are faithful believers, generous supporters, proven leaders in their state conventions and include them in the life of the SBC. To this day there has been no indication on the part of SBC leaders that any hope for reconciliation and inclusiveness is possible.
___Option 5: We could point out that the changes in the new Baptist Faith & Message strike at the heart of historic Baptist principles. This we have done.?
___Option 6: We could make constructive recommendations that are in line with Baptist history and vision and are responsive to the spiritual and human needs that are all around us in Texas. Read carefully the Seminary Study report, and you will see that this option is being proposed to Texas Baptists. (It is available on the Baptist Standard's website, www.baptiststandard.com.)
___Option 7: We could offer to continue to work together in those ways that are still available to us. This, too, is included in the Seminary Study report. We invite all those of good will to continue to partner with us.
___Option 8: We could move forward in obedience to the Great Commands and Great Commission of our Lord, refusing to be embroiled much longer in the conflict. That is my prayer, and my pledge to God and to Texas Baptists.
___We are loved.
__
Get printer-friendly version of this story
Send this story to a friend
Contents/ Masthead / Why We're Here / Links / Archive / E-mail us/ SUBSCRIBE!
