A few weeks ago, I was blessed with the opportunity to work with refugees from the war in Syria. We handed out aid in the form of food, diapers and other items families needed. Unable to work, the Syrians find themselves relying upon others for any assistance offered to them.

One family in particular was in dire need. They had a son with cerebral palsy. Due to his condition, he required a special chair to support his muscles, enabling him to sit comfortably. However, his family was unable to obtain one.

Most of the Syrian refugees find themselves completely broke, and purchasing something of this nature would be nearly impossible, no matter how hard they tried or how much they sacrificed.

The organization with which I was working was able to purchase a chair for them and show them ways to properly care for their son. But, more importantly, they were able to provide a tangible gift for these people that showed them a picture of Jesus’ love. And most importantly, we were able to share with them several times the good news of our Father in heaven and his gift to us. In every situation, no matter how dire, there is always an opportunity to point others toward the Son.

J.R. is a Texas student serving in the Middle East with Go Now Missions. His full name is withheld for security reasons.

Este mes, la Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas se unió con otras 487.000 iglesias cuando la Conferencia Nacional de Líderes Hispanos Cristianos se unió con CONELA, una organización con sede en América Latina que sirve iglesias evangélicas en todo el mundo.

Jesse RinconesCuando Convención se unió a la NHCLC hace varios años, nos convertimos en el grupo bautista más grande representado en la coalición nacional. Esta colaboración permite a Convención de asociarse con congregaciones evangélicas hispanas de todo el país, y ahora el mundo.

Tengo la oportunidad de servir en la junta de la NHCLC, junto con otros líderes hispanos en Texas que incluyen Dr. Gus Reyes (Director del CLC), Rolando Rodríguez (BGCT Oficina de Obra Hispana) y el Dr. Albert Reyes (Presidente y CEO de Buckner Internacional).

Dr. Reyes dijo lo siguiente acerca de la fusión:

“El doctor Phillip Jenkins, Profesor Distinguido de Historia en la Baylor University, ha pronosticado que el sur mundial será la zona del futuro del cristianismo en su libro ‘The Next Christendom: Global Christianity in the 21st Century’ (La próxima cristiandad; el cristianismo mundial en el siglo XXI). La fusión entre la NHCLC y CONELA crea una red mundial de iglesias locales con una visión, una fe y un ethos cultural comunes, conectando al norte mundial con el sur mundial para todos los intereses del Reino del Redentor.”

Doctor Samuel Rodríguez, presidente de la NHCLC, dijo, “Con esta fusión salen ganando tanto la NHCLC como CONELA, y estamos muy contentos por unirnos para servir mejor a los evangélicos hispanos en todo el mundo. Bajo la nueva NHCLC, seguiremos unificando, sirviendo y representando a la comunidad evangélica hispana con los elementos divinos y humanos del mensaje cristiano, a la vez que adelantamos la agenda del Cordero”.

A través de esta fusión, CONELA excelentes capacidades de investigación a la fuerte estructura organizativa de la NHCLC. CONELA a realizado varios estudios entre latinoamericanos, incluyendo la encuesta de 7,500 pastores latinos sobre las prioridades que creen que son importantes para la Iglesia. De las 10 prioridades que identificaron, siete coincidieron con las 7 Directivas de Vida, Familia, Evangelismo Compasivo, Administración, Justicia, Educación y Juventud de la NHCLC.

Esta fusión, que se produjo a petición del presidente de Conela, Ricardo Luna, dará como resultado una organización mundial que representa a más de medio millón de iglesias y a millones de individuos, con lo cual es la mayor asociación evangélica del mundo.

Convención tiene la monumental tarea de servir a las congregaciones Bautistas Hispanas en Texas. Al mismo tiempo, no podemos evitar nuestra responsabilidad y la oportunidad de asociarnos con otros para la obra del Reino en todo el mundo.

¡Adelante!

See also: Jesse Rincones: Convención joins group 487,000 strong

— Jesse Rincones, Director Ejecutivo, Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas

This month, the Hispanic Baptist Convention of Texas joined with 487,000 other churches as the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference merged with CONELA, a Latin America-based organization that serves evangelical churches across the world.

Jesse RinconesWhen the Hispanic Baptist Convention—or Convención—joined the NHCLC several years ago, we became the largest Baptist group represented in the national coalition. This collaboration allows Convención to partner with Hispanic evangelical congregations around the nation, and now the world.

I have the opportunity to serve on the board of the NHCLC along with other Hispanic leaders in Texas that include Gus Reyes, Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission directo; Rolando Rodriguez, BGCT Office of Hispanic Work; and Albert Reyes, president and CEO of Buckner International.

Dr. Reyes had the following to say about the merger: “Dr. Phillip Jenkins, distinguished professor of history at Baylor University, has forecasted the global south as the zone for the future of Christianity in his book, The Next Christendom: Global Christianity in the 21st Century. The merger between the NHCLC and CONELA creates a global network of local churches with a common vision, faith, and cultural ethos connecting the global north with the global south for all the interests of the Redeemer’s kingdom.”

Samuel Rodriguez, president of the NHCLC, said: “This merger is a win-win for both NHCLC and CONELA, and we are thrilled to join together to better serve Hispanic Evangelicals worldwide. Under the new NHCLC, we will continue to unify, serve and represent the Hispanic Evangelical community with the divine and human elements of the Christian message all while advancing the Lamb’s agenda.”

CONELA brings excellent research capabilities to NHCLC’s strong organizational structure. Conela has conducted several studies among Latin Americans, including surveying 7,500 Latino pastors about the priorities they believe are important for the church. Of the 10 priorities they identified, seven coincided with the NHCLC seven directives of life, family, compassionate evangelism, stewardship, justice, education and youth.

This merger, which came at the request of CONELA President Ricardo Luna, will result in a worldwide organization that represents over half a million churches and millions of individuals, making it the largest Evangelical association in the world.

Convención has the monumental task of serving the Hispanic Baptist congregations in Texas. At the same time, we can not avoid our responsibility and opportunity to partner with others for kingdom work around the world.

We look forward to it—Adelante!

See also: Jesse Rincones: Convención se Une a Grupo de 487,000 Iglesias

Jesse Rincones is executive director of the Hispanic Baptist Convention of Texas

Last night, I could not sleep, so I started counting sheep. As I was counting, I could not get the troubling biblical injunction that calls for separating the sheep from the goats out of my mind. So, I started alternating between counting a sheep going to one pen and the goats to the other.

Jeff JohnsonThe problem was that my goats, with their wicked eyes and wily ways, would not stay in their pen. I suppose there is yet to be invented a fence that can contain a goat successfully—thus the word portrait that “they” are the spiritually lost.

But being identified as a sheep hardly is complimentary. The meek and mild nature of a “sheep-like” person rarely is admired in our society. And sheep are notoriously stupid. In a bit of showmanship, I suppose, when I visited the Holy Land, a local shepherd held up a stick in front of the lead sheep in a procession, and it nimbly leaped up and over the slight barrier. So far, so good.

Sheep need each other

Unfortunately for the reputation of “sheep-sense,” the remaining sheep also obediently leaped up to the level of the stick—even though the stick had been removed after that first sheep jumped it. All the other sheep leaped to avoid something that wasn’t there. (This is starting to sound like a Baptist church). The strength of their flock mentality forced them into the air. Yet, perhaps for that very reason, it is good that we as Christians are identified as “sheep.” Unlike the goats, sheep seem to need each other (notice I said need, not like). Our flock is our community and our identity.

Not only do we need each other, but as our imitative behavior indicates, we also need a leader, a shepherd we can depend on. In Baptist life, our local shepherd is our pastor. Funny, the goats in my dream didn’t want anyone watching out for them; they were independent to the point of being headstrong. I can remember being butted by a goat. (No, it was not a deacon). The shepherd is the mainstay in the sheep’s lives. Without his attention and care, they quickly find themselves in trouble.

Good shepherd connected with good sheep

Texas Baptists have a ministry of shepherd-sheep connection. Joe Loughlin’s team (Robert Cuellar, Karl Fickling, Ira Antoine, Patti Adams and Alyssa Stiglets) leads our Pastor-Church Connection ministry. Whether providing direct resources for pastoral leadership development or acting as a connecting guide to other resources provided by the BGCT, this team tirelessly serves Texas Baptist pastors and congregations.

The Pastor/Church Connection ministry also offers expert guidance and extensive resources for churches in interim pastor situations. My prayer is this Texas Baptist ministry will help our sheep and our shepherds connect to each other through the Good Shepherd.

Oh, by the way, I counted so many sheep last night that after a while, they lost their unique character. They all looked alike. Rest assured, Dr. Loughlin and his team understand each local church has its own autonomous and unique character. They never lose sight of that.

You can contact our Pastor/Church Connection ministry here. Tonight, I’m starting with “the sixth sheik’s sixth sheep’s sick” and see where that takes me.

Jeff Johnson is president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and pastor of First Baptist Church in Commerce.

Regarding the article in the Standard, “Southwestern enrolls Muslim student”, the other apparent contradiction is the overemphasis that has been made on the seminary’s mission in preparing pastors for preaching to this practice of evangelism-by-theological-school-training. Which is it? I believe Southern Baptist churches give to the seminary so that it can train ministers for their churches and the mission field. You can’t be both a denominational seminary and a diverse theological school at the same time!

I love Muslims, and I believe all Christians should because Jesus does. Churches and seminaries should teach people how to love and share the gospel with them. Sharing the gospel in genuine love does not require you to make Muslims deacons or pastoral staff at your church. Neither does it mean that a denominational seminary should accept them as ministerial students.

Julio Guarneri

McAllen

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary admits students from other Christian denominations who want to learn about Southern Baptists and our understanding of scripture. Why should not a Muslim student be admitted who wants to learn about our work in archaeology and how it enlightens the Bible? The student will learn from Christians who, hopefully, would exhibit the spirit of Jesus. And some of the students at Southwestern Seminary may learn something about our Muslim neighbors and how to share our witness with them! The student might also learn about Israel, since much of our archaeological work is found there. Certainly that would be a worthwhile outcome. The student should pay full tuition as other non-Baptists do. Let’s open our hearts and our doors to those who disagree with us but want to learn and share with us.

David King

Marshall

Marv, thank you for the deadly accurate summation of Paige Patterson’s actions in the long “civil war.” Your comments on the slide from conservative to fundamentalist needed to be said.  After all the accusations, finger-pointing and loss of sincere Baptists who were driven out by the campaigns to discredit them, can we say that the Southern Baptist Convention has been strengthened in carrying out God’s work?  I think not.

Paul Smith

Wichita, KS 

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary’s president’s unilateral (?) decision to admit a Muslim sounds an awful lot like Obama’s unilateral proclamations. I thought Southern Baptists, especially fundamentalists, were above that. I guess the similarity has been there all along. A sad day for Southwestern Seminary.

Temple Lauer

Greenwood, IN

Seek the greater good at Baylor

This is a wonderful time in the history of Baylor University. I am praying that petty differences will not keep our light from shining bright.

Control of money and power are the primary issues between the Baylor Alumni Association and Baylor University. Personalities should be put aside for the sake of the greater good.

It may be time to let it go! What is more important: To be right or to damage a beautiful institution?

Kaye Patterson

Houston

What’s your weirdest fantasy?

OK; loaded question. We’re not that kind of publication. I’m talking about strongly desiring to do something highly unusual—and, hopefully, wholesome and productive. It’s something your imagination can hardly comprehend. But if it happened, it would be way cool.

While you’re thinking about yours, I’ll tell you mine.

Editor Marv KnoxOne of my fantasies is to eat dinner with Bill Maher. He’s a stand-up comedian, commentator, movie producer and host of his own show on HBO. He’s brilliant. He’s funny. He’s hard on his enemies and generous to his friends. He’s one of the two or three most effective political satirists in America.

But this is a scares-the-bejabbers-out-of-me fantasy. That’s because Maher also is an atheist. He seems to hate Christians. And from what I can tell, he rejects Jesus.

True confession: I don’t see Maher’s TV program very often. I’m too cheap to subscribe to HBO. But every now and then, when I’m traveling, I’ll watch him in a hotel room somewhere. Usually, Maher and his guests talk politics and current events. Fertile fodder for comedians. They make me laugh. And since laughter is part of the recipe for a good night’s sleep, I enjoy their humor before nodding off.

Too disturbed to sleep

But sometimes, I’m too disturbed to go to sleep. That’s when Maher’s conversation has turned to Christians, and he’s gotten all angry and exercised. Wound up for a good rant. Usually, it’s because somebody who claims to be a Christian has done something mean or said something stupid. Think the Westboro (“God Hates Fags”) Baptist Church showing up to protest at a military funeral. Sometimes, a Christian has acted unapologetically, flagrantly, disgustingly hypocritically. Think pedophile priests or adulterous preachers.

With the TV off, I lie in the dark, thinking.

“Of course, Maher hates Christianity. If that’s all I knew about Christianity, I’d hate it too. No wonder Maher rejects Jesus. If all I knew of Jesus were the lascivious, selfish and/or vindictive actions of people who say they follow Jesus, I’d reject him too. Maher doesn’t believe in God? Makes perfect sense. If all God’s ambassadors were as lousy as the charlatans Maher’s been talking about, I’d think Nobody lives behind the curtain too.”

So, I wish we could go to dinner. Spend the evening talking.

In our fantasy conversation, I’d steer clear of debate. For one thing, Maher’s probably smarter than I am. For another, even if we’re equally smart, he debates people for a living; he’s sure to be better at it. And for a third, arguing about God and faith rarely, rarely, rarely changes anybody’s mind.

(Well, maybe we would talk about the problem of evil and suffering. But that’s only because he’d be shocked by my theory, and maybe the surprise might make him think about it later that night.)

First, I’d want to tell him what I like about him. I hope he’d realize not all Christians hate atheists, people of other faiths and religious outliers. And some of us aren’t offended by criticism, even vile criticism. I’d hope—and be praying—he would feel blessed, even if he couldn’t identify the sensation.

The other Christians

But mostly, I’d want to talk to him about the kinds of Christians who never get discussed on his program. We’d talk about …

• Folks who follow Jesus into the poorest, hardest neighborhoods to feed the hungry and clothe the naked.

• Believers who spend their weekends in prisons, loving the unlovely.

• Disaster relievers who put their own lives at risk to help victims of violent nature put their lives back together.

• Christians who live modestly so they can buy food and shelter for the less fortunate.

• Pastors who work for less than minimum wage to give and give of themselves to comfort the afflicted.

• Brave Christians who buck political trends and popular opinion to stand up for justice and mercy.

• Women who rescue other women trafficked for their bodies.

• Foster parents who never, ever get a good night’s rest but show shattered little ones the meaning of unconditional love.

• Gentle folks who wake up thinking about who they can show kindness to before nightfall.

Chances are, I’ll never meet Bill Maher. But that doesn’t let me off the hook. Who knows when I’ll meet someone who’s been roughed up by religious people who emphasize law over love, who feel judgment rather than compassion. That’s when I need to be “another kind” of Christian to them. Maybe I’ll be the only Bible they ever read, as the old preachers used to say.

I pray they’ll feel loved. And maybe catch a glimpse of grace.

So, how about you? What’s your weirdest fantasy?

Our church’s insurance carrier insisted we conduct a risk/safety assessment of our property, business plan and ministries. What does that mean? Where do we start?

The request triggers two obligations – to your insurance company and to people who are involved in your ministries. The first step would be to question your insurance company or agent. Ask what items of practice or policy they want assessed and what data they want as a result of the process.

Several areas of your ministries involve legal liability, for which your insurance company provides coverage. The first is personnel, including paid staff and volunteers. Do you have policies for checking the references, background and criminal histories of anyone employed by the church, from pastor to maintenance staff? An informal online search can be informative. While your pastor and staff usually are “employees at will” who can be fired for any reason, policies may outline reasons for discipline.

Background checks

A criminal background check also is essential for volunteers, particularly anyone working with children. While it may seem unnecessary to check elderly longtime members, the policy should be uniform and explained as an insurance requirement. You need policies concerning contact with children. For example, at least two adults should be present, a minimum ratio of adults to children should be set for activities, and written permission should be received from parents and guardians for special events.

Financial policies should direct who handles money, has access to bank accounts and reviews accounts. Regular and accurate bookkeeping and auditing is essential.

Another area of concern is your building and grounds. Public areas should be well-lighted and inspected regularly for hazards. Are emergency escape routes clearly marked and accessible? Access to buildings should be limited so church staff and volunteers are aware of who is entering the building and can keep an eye out for anyone who may intend to commit a crime.

Clean and safe

Standards should be followed for cleanliness, especially for restrooms and areas where food is prepared and served. All areas should be inspected regularly for anything that could cause someone to fall, and appropriate repairs should be made for any damage or dangers about the premises. In older buildings, asbestos or lead paint may be problems your insurer may require you to remediate.

The other area of concern is the operation of church vehicles. Any driver should have a valid license for the vehicle, since special licensing may be required for buses or vans. Knowledge and experience operating those vehicles should be required. Driving records should be checked. Insurance is a necessity to protect your church and drivers from liability for accidents they may cause and from damage to vehicles. Coverage also should protect occupants in church vehicles from damages they may suffer from negligence of under-insured or uninsured drivers.

This assessment should satisfy your insurance company you are aware and taking steps to avoid risks while meeting your ethical obligation for the safety of those your ministries serve.

Cynthia Holmes, attorney

St. Louis, Mo.

If you have a comment about this column or wish to ask a question for a future column, contact Bill Tillman, consulting ethicist for “Right or Wrong” at 
btillman150@gmail.com.

Hello, Texas Baptists! I would like to make sure you are aware of a recent vote by the Baptist General Convention of Texas Executive Board that will change where we office. As many of you know, we were approached by Baylor University to purchase our building at 333 N. Washington Ave. in Dallas for its School of Nursing.

David HardageOn May 16, Baylor’s board of regents approved a letter of intent to purchase the facility. At our Executive Board meeting May 20, the directors voted to accept the offer and sell the building.

I want to thank the Executive Board as well as the ad hoc committee for their diligent and prayerful work in helping us get here. You can read more on the Texas Baptist website.

Kathleen and I enjoyed a wonderful Sunday in San Marcos. We spent the morning worshipping at First Baptist Church, and we spent the afternoon at the commencement for San Marcos Baptist Academy. Thanks to First Baptist for giving me the opportunity to preach. My prayers are with them and their pastor-search committee as they seek the next leader of their congregation. And thanks to President John Garrison for inviting me to speak at the academy’s commencement. It was an honor.

I preached at First Baptist Church of Bryan, and I am blessed to be preaching there again. I am praying for the faithful interim leadership Lynn Eckeberger is providing for this church. My prayers also go out to the church and pastor-search committee as they look for a new leader.

Thanks to each church, individual and institution that gave to the special Mother’s Day collection for the Texas Baptist Hunger Offering. We have yet to get an official count, but the generosity has been extremely humbling. If you intend to give and have not yet, there is still time.

David Hardage is executive director of the Baptist General Convention of Texas Executive Board.

I recently counted 14 scars obtained from stitches during my childhood.

I remember super gluing my fingers together. I smashed more than one penny on a railroad track. I burned stuff with a magnifying glass. I know—not particularly constructive activities. But fun at the time. Especially as a kid. “Go ahead, Jeff,” my older brother encouraged. “Lick the battery! It will teach you about shock and electric currents.”

Jeff JohnsonWhen I made Jesus the center of my life, I thought that was a risky investment. Why? One of the Scriptures the pastor used to lead me to Christ was the parable of the talents—a story of risk. What I sensed was risky turned out to be right. I asked myself this past week, “How are we as Texas Baptists taking risks?”

One way is how we as Texas Baptists take social justice seriously. For some, the words “social justice” are politicized fighting words. However, they’re grounded in the Bible. Jesus launches his ministry “to bring good news to the poor” (Luke 4:18). Then, at the end of his ministry, Jesus denounces the Pharisees who neglect “justice and mercy and faith” (Matthew 23:23).

This focus on social justice can be found in the Old Testament as well, such as when God commands us through the prophet Isaiah to “seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow” (1:17). These are dangerous words, but they’re trustworthy and true. The word of the Lord is a dangerous word.

But here’s another observation: Making a financial investment in ministry of the Baptist General Convention of Texas can be just as risky as working for social justice. It may not be as dramatic, but it’s every bit as dangerous. Making a financial investment in God’s future is another “talent”-type risk—and one worth taking.

I really think if the servant who was unwilling to risk would have risked his talent and lost it, the master would have said: “Well done. At least you took a risk because you know me and how I like risk takers.”

The good news is that when we as Texas Baptists live dangerously with God, we don’t find ourselves diminished, depleted or destroyed. When we take God’s word seriously and make a risky response, we advance God’s will and grow closer to both the Lord and each other.

If you have not noticed, Texas Baptists are taking some risks these days. Take time to encourage and pray for our Texas Baptist leadership as we boldly embrace an exciting future.

I am so glad I am a Texas Baptist. I am saying you don’t have to burn stuff with a magnifying glass in order to get fired up or lick a battery to feel the current. Make no mistake, however. As we take risks, know that when all is said and done, we will have the scars to prove it.

Prayerfully, not as many as I amassed in my youth.

Jeff Johnson is president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and pastor of First Baptist Church in Commerce.

Patterson was right to distance from moderates

You wrote, “But here’s the real irony: (Paige) Patterson extended the kind of grace to a Muslim he has spent his lifetime denying to fellow Baptists.”

There is actually no irony here. I oppose Patterson’s decision to admit the Muslim student, for multiple reasons, any one of which would sufficient on its own. However, the New Testament calls us to treat brothers and nonbelievers differently. A “double standard” is not a bad thing when you’re talking about two genuinely different things.

In the words of the Apostle Paul: “I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people—not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge?” (1 Corinthians 5:9-12)

Patterson’s history of drawing lines and taking stands among believers has been an effort to practice these, and related, principles. His history in this area has nothing at all to do with how we interact with those who make no claim to know Christ.

Aaron Blumer

Baldwin, Wis.

Drop petty disputes and name-calling

As a young pastor who was not around for all the fighting I am pretty disappointed in the childish ways we as Texas Baptists can’t seem to move forward, and continue to create a deeper divide during a time when we should really be focusing upon lessening the divide.

Your editorial about Paige Patterson’s admission of a Muslim student to Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary came across as childish.

Is Patterson a hypocrite in his actions with Baptists he disagrees with, yes. Is his admission of Muslims in light of this laughable, yes. Anyone who reads your website already knows that. To write an editorial making fun of his hypocrisy only creates more tension on both sides of the situation and is definitely not modeling the kind of character we are called to have as believers. 

We need leadership amongst Texas Baptists that is going to help us keep our eyes focused upon Christ and the work he has called us to do and not continue to keep our eyes looking back at hurts from over 15 years ago.

I know this is easier said than done for people who lived through this conflict. I have several in my church who recognize this about themselves. They also recognize if we are ever going to move forward we have to forgive. Mr. Knox you are a man of great influence, and I pray you would use that influence for the glory of God, and not for petty disputes and name-calling.

Mike Meadows

Livingston

‘Sad day’ for Southwestern Seminary

It is amazing Paige Patterson would allow a Muslim student to attend Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

When I attended Southwestern, Patterson and his buddies criticized then-President Russell Dilday for being too “liberal,” but Dilday never would have even considered allowing a Muslim to attend classes. That violates everything Southwestern has ever stood for.

It also is disturbing that Patterson would threaten students with expulsion and faculty members with firing if they dared to question his authority. The only authority that should matter is the authority of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and the Scriptures. Patterson’s actions violate all of those.

It is truly a sad day for my alma mater.

Dave Parker

Oklahoma City

Beyond betrayed to ashamed

I went to a Baptist school, Hardin-Simmons University. To have people of other faiths enrolled there was not only non-extraordinary, it was to be expected and welcomed.

But a Muslim student at a seminary? Our seminary?

I earned my master of divinity and doctor of ministry degrees at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. I always have been proud to be a Southwesterner, regardless of the twists and turns through the decades. But this?

A seminary is to be a training ground for ministry, not a solely academic pursuit. It is a place to feed the mind and stir the spirit of those who are called by the Lord Jesus Christ to serve him in vocational ministry.

This? I am ill at learning this. “Betrayed” doesn’t begin to describe my feelings. “Ashamed” probably gets more at it.

If not rectified quickly, I intend to return my diplomas post haste.

Earl Powell

Bedford

Muslim student helps seminary program

Sir, perhaps you might do your homework concerning the student and the archaeology program at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

The truth is that while the growing biblical archaeology program at the seminary admittedly ought to adhere fully to seminary policy, it is also attempting to compete on a worldwide scale with institutions in the field that are located at the field. For us to have this student as part of our program has allowed SWBTS a foothold into relationships that will help those of us in the program develop pertinent relationships overseas. Not to mention that his experience from the field has served as a helpful resource for us younger students.

Please remember that in spite of your extremely biased opinion, there always exists at least two sides to every story.

Dawn Soeder

Fort Worth

‘We do have a care’ for Baylor

The just failure of the vote to dissolve the Baylor Alumni Association needs further explanation.

Under BAA bylaws, only members who could appear in person could vote, and a two-thirds majority was required to dissolve. Of 17,000-plus members, fewer than 2,000 live in or near Waco. Baylor President Ken Starr, who supported dissolution, headed a Waco media campaign including press releases, interviews and billboards apparently directed to those likely to be present. Two months earlier, in July, he directed the demolition of our $2 million Hughes-Dillard alumni building on campus

The vote failed as it should have.

How did it get that far? The BAA membership never was polled and was not kept informed on the private discussions, negotiations and threats from Baylor. BAA President Elizabeth Coker started the discussions with Baylor representatives in the fall of 2012. In 2013, she was succeeded as president by Colin Cox, who also supported dissolution and who presided over the voting Sept. 7, 2013. After the vote, Coker, Cox and a number of officers and members resigned from the BAA board. The board has been reconstituted with new officers and directors and continues to be independent and continues to serve Baylor.

As beloved President S.P. Brooks said in his 1931 Baylor commencement speech, read to that graduating class just days after he died: “Because of what Baylor has meant to you in the past, because of what she will mean to you in the future, oh, my students, have a care for her.”

We do have a care for her.

Max Bennett

Weatherford

Petty differences

This is a wonderful time in the history of Baylor University. I am praying that petty differences will not keep our light from shining bright.

Control of money and power are the primary issues between the Baylor Alumni Association and Baylor University. Personalities should be put aside for the sake of the greater good.

It may be time to let it go! What is more important: To be right or to damage a beautiful institution?

Kaye Patterson

Houston

Fond memories of Glorieta

So sad to read of the decline of Glorieta, and the change of hands. 

I have so many memories of spiritual mountaintop experiences:

• My first trip to a “Training Union” week when I was a teenager (1961).

• A very special trip in about 1963 when my mom went with our group as one of the adult sponsors—the only time we made a trip like that together—which let me see her in a whole different light as she interacted with the other youth in our group.

• Attending with my college Baptist Student Union group while I was a college student

• Going with my family as a young adult.

• And finally, getting to go for three weeks as a teacher in the “Lab School” during a series of Sunday School weeks. By that time, I was a writer of curriculum for LifeWay, and we were using one of the units I wrote in the “Lab School” that summer. What a thrill! 

Every single trip to Glorieta has a special spiritual memory attached to it for me, because there was just something about that place that draws one closer to God.

Marsha Barrett

Longview

LifeWay materials ‘problematical’

In general, we are quite unhappy with Lifeway Bible study materials. They over-emphasize the Old Testament. They emphasize uniformity for everyone. A recent lesson focused on Peter denying Jesus. We decided in our 3-year-olds’ class to ignore that part and emphasize the mutual love between the two after the Resurrection.

An upcoming summer lesson about Daniel and his decision to obey God rather than Nebuchadnezzar is even more problematical. Discussing peer pressure and Christian standards and values, the author says, “The secularization of public schools has made many Christian parents feel that they are swimming upstream against a raging tide.” 

Public taxpayer-supported schools are by definition “secular.” The U.S. Constitution and subsequent Supreme Court rulings are sufficiently clear about separation of church and state. We are supposed to take our children to the churches of our choice and mirror those teachings at home. It also is our responsibility to help our young people understand and support the Constitution, and it is the responsibility of our various governmental levels to provide and support public schools.

The SBC has become so tightly intertwined with the political far right wing that it has forgotten the Constitution. And having forgotten that, it’s possible to take out pieces of the document they don’t like, such as the religion clauses of the First Amendment: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. …”

Wayne Webb

Katy

OK, husbands, here’s the key to gaining your spouse’s approval and affirmation, as well as possibly even “You’re so great! I thank God I married you!”

Do something your wife believes is absolutely necessary, but also dangerous, and preferably gross. Just don’t cross over the line and do something she thinks is unnecessary, but also dangerous and possibly stupid.

Let’s take the latter first. (Getting the bad stuff out of the way as quickly as possible usually constitutes the better part of achievable wisdom.)

On the very day this column is distributed in the Baptist Standard, Joanna and I will celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. Across three and a half decades, I’ve done my share of deeds Jo deemed dangerous, unnecessary and stupid. They were not endearing.

Dangerous and stupid are close cousins

From her perspective, if dangerous and stupid are not twins, they’re at least close cousins. She believes—and in my semi-sane moments, I see her viewpoint—most actions that court danger are stupid unless they involve saving small children, keeping the car operational and … well, I’m sure there’s a third reason, but it doesn’t come to me.

Items of danger typically involve (a) electricity, (b) ladders, and in my particular case, (c) sporting equipment and sometimes (d) food.

So, no matter how grand, noble, excellent or heroic the completion of said tasks may seem to me, they’re categorically incapable of rising above dangerous and stupid.

I could elaborate, but if I cry into my keyboard, it will short out, and I’ll never get around to telling you how to become your wife’s hero. And for a shining moment several nights ago, I was Jo’s hero. Really.

It all started after dinner, while I did the dishes and she cleaned out the fridge.

To my consternation, she sat a Tupperware thingy of pinto beans and ham by the sink and told me to run them down the disposal. She read my forlorn look like the headline on that day’s Dallas Morning News. “They’re too old. You didn’t eat them fast enough,” she explained. “They may have germs. Eating them would be dangerous and stupid.”

So, I turned on the water, flipped on the disposal, and started dumping beans and ham.

About three seconds later, Jo hollers, “No, no, no!”

An unusual grinding sound

She’s the one with the good ears, not to mention uncommon common sense. She reflexively picked up on the slightest unusual grinding sound.

“A bone,” she interpreted. “A ham bone must’ve been in the beans. I’m so sorry.”

She handed me the flashlight, and I traced the arc of light around the outside rim of the disposal. Sure enough, a partial ring of ham bone, down in the darkness.

We looked at each other.

I shoved my hand down through the rubber flange-grommet dohicky, into the disposal. Meanwhile, I kept my eye on the switch on the wall beside the sink. Jo stood across the room, and I kept my free hand in my pocket. But when you’ve got your hand down a garbage disposal, it’s impossible not to think about queasy possibilities. Even if nobody can touch the switch.

I wrenched my elbow backward and fished around blindly with my second finger, following the edge of the disposal. In case you’ve never stuck your hand in a disposal, it feels like the inside of a can, but with sharp, spinnable cleats on the bottom. After a few seconds, I felt a slender slice of a ham bone.

When I yanked my hand out of the disposal, I held up the bone like an Olympic gold medal. Except I didn’t kiss it, because my hand was slimy. Gross stuff clings to the bottom of rubber flange-grommet dohickies.

“Lucky for us, I’ve got small hands,” I said. She smiled.

Then I turned on the water and flipped the switch. Same bone-grinding-on-metal sound.

Water off, switch off, hand back down in the disposal. Three more times.

Finally, water on, smooth grind, beans gone.

“You’re so great. I thank God I married you,” Jo told me—from across the room. Because even if you’re a hero, if your hand’s slimy and you stink, you stand alone.

“Have I got a deal for you!” says the fellow selling swampland in Florida.

“Come to work for us, and we’ll double your salary!” declares the man whose business is about to go under.

When opportunity knocks, how can one tell if it is “of the Lord”? Can a Christian know with confidence that a door springing open truly is a blessing from God? Or is it temptation from the enemy?

Rich MusslerGod promised if you diligently seek wisdom from above, you will find it. Determining God’s will and then acting upon it is the essence of godly wisdom. Unfortunately, when an opportunity presents itself, many Christians choose this tactic: Act first. Pray later.

You know a litmus test is a quick way to determine the chemical acidity of any given substance. Interestingly, God has provided several litmus tests that can help you determine if any given opportunity is truly “of the Lord.”

When I was younger, I had an opportunity to interview for employment with a cigarette manufacturer that needed a representative in the region where I lived. I didn’t smoke, but I needed the job badly and was delighted when they called to request an interview.

During the interview, God brought to mind this passage from 1 Corinthians 6: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? You have been bought with a price, therefore glorify God in your body.” I stopped to explain my situation to the two gentlemen interviewing me. They looked positively stunned as I excused myself and left. Later, God brought to me an even better employment opportunity.

God’s litmus tests

I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was implementing the foremost of God’s litmus tests. If an opportunity is contrary in any way to principles found in God’s revealed will, the Holy Bible, it is nothing our heavenly Father wants his children involved in. If you know your Bible, this is an easy test to employ.

A second litmus test for determining the spiritual worthiness of an opportunity is to talk it over with godly men and women. Proverbs 15:22 tells us, “Without consultation plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed.” All around you are people who have spiritual insight God has granted them—don’t be so foolish as to act without first consulting mature Christians about your plans.

Another excellent litmus test is the difficulty or challenge level you will face in getting an opportunity accomplished. If it’s a slam dunk, something you can do all on your own without the Lord’s help, it is not likely an undertaking you should involve yourself in. If it’s “all downhill from here,” you’re probably going the wrong direction. It is unique to our God that he prefers to accomplish his will using our weaknesses rather than our strengths. Said another way, an opportunity that is difficult, challenging and filled with potential adversity may be your greatest chance to bring glory to God.

When we can’t do it on our own

You see, it is when you cannot do it on your own that you must depend upon the Lord. And that is when God gets the glory—as it should be. If an opportunity merely showcases your talents and skills, you may look great. But ask yourself, is that your purpose? God’s work isn’t meant to puff your ego. When things are impossible for you to accomplish, God shows up. Jesus emphasized this point (and not vice versa): “with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). If you find you have no need for the Lord’s help, perhaps it’s because you aren’t doing the Lord’s work.

A true opportunity from the Lord will always increase your faith—not weaken it. Likely, it will stretch you spiritually and tax you physically and emotionally. Even so, you will find great joy in doing God’s work.

One final litmus test that never fails to help clarify whether an opportunity is truly of God is this: Does it violate the golden standard established by our Lord for treating other humans? As you undertake this opportunity, will you be “doing to others as you would have them to do to you”? If not, this is no opportunity from God. Satan is behind it. God won’t send you on a mission that doesn’t in some way bless, encourage or uplift others.

When doors swing open too easily

You should also beware of false litmus tests. For example, contrary to popular thinking, a door that springs open when you push on it not guaranteed to lead to Jesus. Often, the reverse is true—when doors swing open too easily, it’s time to be extra cautious. Satan may be propping it open for you. On the other hand, resistance is no indicator one shouldn’t press onward. Jesus said, “Faith can remove mountains” (Matthew 21:21). That implies while doing God’s work you may face serious opposition. Always expect the devil to do what he can to keep you from accomplishing the Lord’s purposes.

And remember this axiom: Fools rush in. When opportunity knocks, the world would have you believe you are foolish to hesitate, but just the opposite is true. Folly is a playground littered with those who have taken hasty action. If you act first and pray later, you are no different than nonbelievers who do not know how to pray nor to whom we pray. What value is your relationship with the Lord Jesus if you don’t check with him about the things you intend to do? Always, it is easier to avoid a mess than to get yourself out of one, especially when buried up to your neck.

Yes, most definitely, God wants you to take advantage of your opportunities. But do so only after applying the litmus tests he has provided. Take the time necessary to determine if that door opening before you is one Jesus wants you to pass through. If it is, go forth boldly. If the opportunity is of the Lord, you will find great reward and much joy as you “press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14).

Rich Mussler is the author of Bad Christian: What God Taught Me and a frequent contributor to the Baptist Standard. He attends First Baptist Church in Lewisville.