Doctrine and Mission

Doctrine and Mission

  • One Moment Can Ruin Everything: A Call to Faithfulness for Men

    Recently, a viral video from a Coldplay concert captured the attention of millions—not because of the music, but because of a moment between a CEO and another woman who was not his wife. The clip was short, subtle, but telling. A glance. A gesture. A moment that sparked speculation, exposed private realities, and served as a powerful warning: one moment can destroy everything.

    As men, especially husbands, we live in a world that constantly bombards us with temptations—many of them subtle, often socially acceptable, and sometimes even applauded. But Scripture has been sounding the alarm for centuries.

    The Wisdom of Proverbs

    Proverbs, a book given to young men to train them in wisdom, does not mince words when it comes to the danger of unfaithfulness. It’s not only about adultery, but about the heart’s drift long before any physical act ever occurs.

    “Can a man carry fire next to his chest and his clothes not be burned?” — Proverbs 6:27

    That viral moment was a reminder: you don’t have to fall into full-blown sin for consequences to begin. The slow burn of compromise, flirtation, or secret admiration can torch your integrity, your marriage, and your witness.

    “He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself.” — Proverbs 6:32

    This isn’t just about public disgrace. It’s about self-destruction. The man who chooses infidelity—emotional, physical, or digital—is not just harming his spouse. He’s cutting himself off from the blessings of covenant faithfulness. He is, in the words of Proverbs, “destroying himself.”

    David’s Look

    One of the most sobering examples from Scripture is the story of David. A man after God’s own heart. A worshiper. A leader. A king. And yet…

    “It happened, late one afternoon, when David arose from his couch and was walking on the roof… that he saw a woman bathing.” — 2 Samuel 11:2

    One look. That’s where it started. It ended with adultery, deceit, murder, and a lifetime of sorrow. Sin always promises more than it delivers and costs more than you ever planned to pay.

    Guard Your Heart

    Faithfulness isn’t just about avoiding catastrophic failure. It’s about cultivating a heart that refuses to wander in the first place.

    “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” — Proverbs 4:23

    Don’t trust yourself to stay strong in the moment. Don’t assume you can flirt with temptation and walk away unscathed. Set boundaries. Flee opportunities to sin. Build a marriage that is rich with love, laughter, affection, and trust. Invest in your wife, not just with time but with intentional pursuit.

    “Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth.” — Proverbs 5:18

    Rejoice in her. Remember why you fell in love with her. Cultivate joy, romance, and honor in your marriage—not just for your sake, but for God’s glory and for the sake of your family.

    A Final Word

    That viral video from the concert won’t be the last moment like that we see. But let it be a warning, not a spectacle. Let it push us to reflect. To repent. To renew our commitment to covenant faithfulness.

    Faithfulness doesn’t make headlines. But it builds legacies. It protects children. It honors God. And it glorifies the gospel of Christ, who is faithful to His Bride.

    Men, guard your heart. Guard your eyes. Love your wife. One moment can destroy everything. But a lifetime of faithfulness can reflect the beauty of the One who was faithful to the end.

  • When Pride Leads the Church: The Spirit of Diotrephes

    In the short but powerful letter of 3 John, the Apostle John mentions a man by name—Diotrephes. Unlike many biblical characters who are remembered for their faithfulness, generosity, or repentance, Diotrephes is remembered for something else: his destructive spirit.

    John doesn’t mince words. He calls him out clearly and publicly:

    “I wrote something to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first among them, does not accept what we say.” (3 John 9)

    In that single verse, we meet a type of person who still exists in churches today—a man who destroys what Christ died to build. Here’s a deeper look at the characteristics of Diotrephes and the warning he presents to every congregation.

    1. Pride: “He loves to be first”

    At the heart of Diotrephes’ behavior is a love of preeminence—a desire to be the most important voice in the room. He didn’t just want influence; he wanted dominance. This kind of pride is deadly in the church because it always elevates self over Christ and self over others.

    This person doesn’t serve for the good of the body or the glory of God. He serves so he can be seen, praised, and obeyed.

    2. Rejection of Apostolic Authority: “He does not accept what we say”

    Diotrephes didn’t just disagree with John’s leadership—he rejected it outright. This wasn’t some secondary issue; John was an eyewitness to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. To reject John was to reject the apostolic teaching—the very foundation of the early church.

    Likewise today, those who oppose biblical authority—whether through denying the Word or undermining faithful shepherds—are not reformers, but rebels. A church cannot thrive when those in leadership ignore or twist Scripture to suit their egos.

    3. Slander: “He unjustly accuses us with wicked words”

    Diotrephes didn’t just resist—he attacked. He maligned the character of godly men with “wicked words.” When someone seeks control in a church, they often resort to slander and gossip to tear down anyone who stands in their way.

    This is a weaponized tongue, and James warns about it: “The tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness… it is set on fire by hell” (James 3:6).

    4. Hostility Toward God’s People: “He refuses to welcome the brothers and stops those who want to”

    Diotrephes also shut the door to faithful missionaries and teachers. He actively opposed hospitality and cooperation in gospel work, and he even threatened others who wanted to help them.

    This is the behavior of a gatekeeper, not a shepherd. He turns the church inward, dividing and isolating it from the broader body of Christ.

    5. Abuse of Power: “He puts them out of the church”

    Worst of all, Diotrephes used his power to excommunicate faithful believers—not for heresy or immorality, but for disagreeing with him. This kind of spiritual abuse still happens in churches today, where toxic leaders remove those who challenge their authority.

    This is not shepherding—it’s tyranny.

    A Final Word: Don’t Be a Diotrephes

    The church is Christ’s body, not ours to control. If you see these traits—pride, rejection of authority, slander, hostility, abuse of power—in a leader, or even in yourself, take John’s warning seriously.

    John wrote this short letter not just to expose a man, but to protect the church. Let us do the same. Call out sin, defend the truth, and remember John’s command:

    “Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good.” (3 John 11)

  • Servants or Supervisors: A Crisis in the Southern Baptist Church Regarding the Office of Deacon

    There’s a quiet crisis unfolding in many Southern Baptist churches—and it’s leaving a trail of wounded pastors, divided congregations, and empty pulpits.

    It’s not a theology problem.
    It’s not a culture war problem.
    It’s a leadership problem—more specifically, a deacon problem.

    While deacons were appointed in Acts 6 to serve the church and protect its unity, in far too many churches today, the role has been distorted into something unrecognizable. Deacons, who should be the lead servants, have become the chief critics. In some congregations, they function less like Christlike helpers and more like an ecclesiastical board of directors, often overpowering or ousting pastors they disagree with.

    And the consequences? They’re staggering.

    The Numbers Tell the Story

    Southern Baptist pastors are hurting—and many are walking away from ministry altogether.

    📉 According to a 2023 Lifeway Research study:

    • 63% of pastors say they feel isolated and under constant criticism.
    • 38% considered quitting full-time ministry in the past year.
    • Only 1 in 10 seminary graduates will retire as a pastor in vocational ministry.

    And perhaps the most telling statistic?

    📌 A 2022 Barna study found that among pastors who had considered quitting, the most common reasons were:

    • Stress and burnout
    • Conflict in the church
    • Feeling unsupported by leadership

    In too many Southern Baptist churches, the primary source of that conflict and lack of support is a misunderstanding and misuse of the office of deacon.

    Many pastors aren’t leaving because they lost faith in God.
    They’re leaving because they got run off by deacons who lost sight of their biblical role.

    From Servants to Supervisors

    The Bible paints a clear picture of deacons: They are servants, not supervisors. But in many churches, the title “deacon” has come to mean power, position, and control.

    Imagine if the men chosen in Acts 6 acted the way many modern deacons do today.

    The apostles are overwhelmed with the needs of the people—especially widows being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So they appoint seven godly men to help.

    Now imagine Stephen and Philip holding private meetings to question Peter’s sermons.
    Imagine them arguing about the apostles’ “leadership style” and calling for votes of no confidence.
    Imagine them refusing to serve the widows until their authority was recognized.
    Imagine them trying to dictate how the apostles should pray, preach, and lead.

    Absurd, right?
    But sadly, not far off from what’s happening in some churches today.

    What Acts 6 Actually Shows Us

    In Acts 6, the early church faced a serious challenge. The apostles were so overwhelmed by the growing needs of the body that the ministry of the Word and prayer was at risk. So they said:

    “Brothers and sisters, select from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Spirit and wisdom, whom we may put in charge of this task.” (Acts 6:3)

    These seven were not appointed to hold the apostles accountable.
    They were appointed to hold up the ministry—to meet physical needs so the spiritual leadership could focus on prayer and preaching.

    And the result?

    “The word of God continued to spread; the number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem…” (Acts 6:7)

    Faithful servant ministry brought spiritual breakthrough.

    It’s Time to Return to Biblical Deacon Ministry

    Deacons are not called to run the church—but to relieve the strain on those who do.
    They are not called to wield power—but to wash feet.
    Not to fight pastors—but to free them to fulfill their calling.

    In many Southern Baptist churches, deacons have unintentionally drifted into a role God never gave them—and the result is pastors forced to resign, churches in turmoil, and a gospel mission that stalls out.

    It’s time for a course correction.

    We don’t need more powerful deacon boards.
    We need Spirit-filled servant leaders—just like Acts 6.

    Deacons like Stephen—men full of grace, courage, and the Holy Spirit.
    Deacons like Philip—faithful in serving tables and bold in proclaiming Christ.

    That kind of deacon doesn’t run off pastors.
    He runs alongside them.

    A Final Word to Deacons

    If you’re a deacon:
    Your church doesn’t need you to be a decision-maker.
    It needs you to be a disciple-maker.
    Not a watchdog—but a warrior in prayer and service.
    Not a political force—but a spiritual pillar.

    You were called to protect the unity of the church, meet the needs of the body, and support the ministry of the Word—not to stand in its way.

    If the role you’re filling doesn’t look like Acts 6, it’s time to return to the blueprint.

    Let the church be led by shepherds.
    Let deacons be the lead servants.
    And let Christ be glorified.

    The future of the church doesn’t rest on power plays—but on humble men who will take up towels instead of titles.

    It’s time to stop rewriting Acts 6—and start living it.

    Practical Steps Toward Reform and Renewal in the Local Church

    Diagnosing the problem is only the first step. Once a church realizes it has strayed from the biblical model of leadership—often with deacons functioning more like a board of trustees or power brokers rather than servant-hearted spiritual men—action must be taken. Reform isn’t easy. But just as a diseased body must undergo painful surgery to remove cancer and begin to heal, so too must a church confront and correct what is spiritually harmful. Here are some practical ways to do that:

    1. Teach and Re-teach the Biblical Model of Leadership

    Begin with the Word. Most power struggles arise not just from sin but from ignorance. Churches need regular, intentional teaching on:

    • Acts 6 and the origin of the deacon role as servants, not overseers.
    • 1 Timothy 3 and the qualifications for both elders and deacons.
    • Ephesians 4:11–12 and the purpose of church leadership—to equip the saints, not control them.

    This teaching should be done from the pulpit, in Sunday School, and in leadership training settings. Use real-life examples of healthy churches, and contrast them with common dysfunctions.

    2. Reform Church Documents and Structures

    Churches must review and revise their bylaws, constitutions, and committee structures to align with Scripture:

    • Make clear distinctions between pastoral authority (leadership and oversight) and deacon service (support and care).
    • Eliminate “deacon boards” with veto power over pastors.
    • Require spiritual qualifications and term limits for leadership positions.

    If your church structure gives ultimate authority to a group of deacons, it’s not a biblical or congregational model—it’s a corporate one. Reform starts here.

    3. Call the Church to Repentance

    Before any changes are made, the church must recognize that this isn’t just a strategic problem—it’s a spiritual one. Pride, power-hunger, and division are sins that grieve the Spirit. Leadership should:

    • Hold a solemn assembly or special prayer service of repentance.
    • Preach on humility, unity, and submission to Christ as the head of the church (Col. 1:18).
    • Ask God to purify the motives and actions of all leaders.

    God honors brokenness and repentance. Revival often begins when churches are willing to humble themselves before the Lord.

    4. Confront and Remove Ungodly Leaders

    If men currently in leadership are unqualified, domineering, or spiritually abusive, they must be addressed directly.

    • Use Matthew 18 and 1 Timothy 5:19-20 as guides.
    • Meet privately first. If there’s no repentance, involve other leaders and eventually the congregation.
    • Don’t be afraid to remove deacons or others from leadership positions. It’s not unloving—it’s obedient.

    You wouldn’t leave cancer untreated in your physical body. In the same way, removing harmful leadership is a necessary act of love and spiritual stewardship.

    5. Raise Up Godly Leaders, Not Yes-Men

    Don’t just fill positions—cultivate men of character:

    • Start a men’s discipleship process to prepare future elders and deacons.
    • Focus on humility, servanthood, and biblical understanding, not business acumen or popularity.
    • Let men prove themselves over time (1 Tim. 3:10).

    A church can’t be healthy if its leaders are spiritually immature. Raise up men who love Jesus more than they love power.

    6. Create a Culture of Accountability and Openness

    Churches that thrive after reform do so because they establish a new culture:

    • Congregational members are encouraged to speak up, pray, and ask questions without fear.
    • Pastors and leaders model transparency, repentance, and mutual submission.
    • Decision-making processes are open, biblical, and bathed in prayer.

    A toxic culture can’t be fixed with policies—it must be transformed by the gospel.

    The End Goal: A Church That Looks Like Christ

    Reform is hard. It requires courage, confrontation, and sometimes loss. But the fruit of obedience is peace, health, and a church that reflects the heart of Christ. As churches commit to this kind of deep change, they become places where pastors thrive, members grow, and God is glorified.

    Let judgment begin in the household of God—so that healing can, too.

  • When Prominence Fades: A Call to Faithful Shepherding in Obscurity

    As we embark on another annual meeting in Dallas, we’re once again surrounded by crowds, big names, and high-profile debates. We see familiar faces on platforms, hear strong voices in microphones, and feel the buzz of influence and prominence. But in the midst of it all, we must be reminded: the health and future of the Southern Baptist Convention does not rest on the most visible leaders—it rests in the quiet, unseen faithfulness of ordinary pastors serving ordinary churches with extraordinary commitment.

    The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has seen its fair share of prominent leaders—voices that rose quickly, led boldly, and fell, whether by controversy, conflict, or quiet exit. Some left positions of influence amid media storms. Others quietly stepped down under the weight of internal division or external scrutiny. Consider just a few recent examples:

    • Russell Moore – Once the head of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), Moore became a polarizing figure over his criticisms of Donald Trump and his handling of abuse-related issues in the SBC. He eventually left the SBC altogether.
    • Adam Greenway – Former president of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS), Greenway resigned amid financial and leadership challenges, leaving questions and controversy in his wake.
    • David Platt – A widely celebrated preacher and former president of the International Mission Board (IMB), Platt later faced tensions within his own church over political and theological differences, leading to members departing and public disputes.
    • Paige Patterson – Once a titan in the Conservative Resurgence and former SWBTS president, Patterson was terminated for mishandling sexual abuse allegations and other leadership failures.
    • Ed Litton – Elected SBC president in 2021, Litton came under fire after revelations that he had used extended portions of sermons from J.D. Greear without clear attribution. The controversy raised questions about pastoral integrity and sermon preparation.
    • J.D. Greear – Also a former SBC president, Greear faced criticism for his language on sexual ethics and perceived doctrinal ambiguity, including how he spoke about homosexuality—sparking concern among many Southern Baptists about clarity and conviction.

    These names remind us that prominence does not equal permanence. Influence in the SBC, or any Christian institution, can be as fleeting as the cultural winds that blow around it. Platforms rise and fall. Conferences fade. Spotlights shift. But the chief calling of a pastor remains unchanged:

    “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight… not domineering… but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2–3).

    There is an ever-present temptation in our culture, even among pastors, to long for visibility over faithfulness, platform over pastoring, and acclaim over quiet obedience. Yet the Kingdom advances not through celebrity but through faithful, long-haul shepherds—men who love their church more than their image, who open the Word week after week, visit the sick, pray for the weary, and raise up disciples in their own community, far from the limelight.

    We thank God for leaders who serve well on a denominational level. But we must not confuse the conference stage with the judgment seat of Christ. The applause of men is fleeting; the approval of the Chief Shepherd is eternal.

    So to the Southern Baptist pastor laboring in obscurity: do not grow weary. You may never trend on social media, but your name is written in heaven. You may never lead an entity, but you lead God’s sheep. You may never be invited to speak at the Convention, but you’ve been called to speak God’s Word every week. That is enough.

    Let us pray not for fame, but for faithfulness. Not for platforms, but for perseverance. Not for recognition, but for resurrection reward.

  • When Titles Undermine Theology: The Quiet Redefinition of the Pastoral Office

    In recent years, many churches have taken deliberate and often commendable steps to clarify their theological convictions regarding church leadership. For those who hold to a complementarian understanding of Scripture—that the office of pastor/elder is reserved for qualified men (1 Timothy 2:12; 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9)—this has meant reaffirming biblical boundaries and celebrating the distinct yet equally valuable roles of men and women in the church.

    However, a more subtle challenge is emerging—one that doesn’t overtly deny biblical teaching but works around it through rebranding. Increasingly, churches are sidestepping biblical qualifications by renaming pastoral roles with titles like “Director,” “Ministry Lead,” or “Coordinator,” placing unqualified individuals—often women—into functional pastoral roles without the title. While these churches may affirm complementarian doctrine on paper, they undermine it in practice.

    The Importance of Titles

    Titles in ministry are not arbitrary labels; they communicate function, responsibility, and authority. The New Testament does not use titles casually. Elders and overseers are given that designation not just as a status symbol, but as an indication of their spiritual authority, shepherding responsibility, and theological accountability (1 Peter 5:1–4; Acts 20:28).

    When churches assign pastoral functions—like teaching, spiritual oversight, or shepherding a specific ministry—to someone without applying the title “pastor,” they risk communicating that function does not follow form. This creates confusion in the body and can blur the lines God has drawn in His Word.

    A Shortcut with Consequences

    This trend often arises from a good desire: to include gifted women or other unqualified individuals in significant ministry roles. But rather than training, discipling, and affirming those who meet the biblical qualifications, the church takes a shortcut. Instead of honoring the office of elder/pastor by preserving its integrity, the title is avoided, while the function is quietly reallocated.

    This isn’t merely a semantic problem—it’s a theological one. When Scripture gives qualifications for elders (1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9), it roots them in creation order and the nature of authority in the church. Avoiding those qualifications through retitling undermines Scripture’s authority and the local church’s witness.

    How This Impacts the SBC: The Strength and Limit of the Law Amendment

    This growing trend has real implications for the Southern Baptist Convention.

    The SBC is a voluntary association of autonomous churches that agree on a shared confession and cooperate for the sake of mission. While churches are free to govern themselves, the convention sets standards for cooperation, particularly in matters of ecclesiology. That’s why the BF&M 2000 clearly states, “the office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture.”

    The Law Amendment, heading to a second vote at the 2025 SBC annual meeting, is an important and necessary step in reaffirming our biblical convictions. It rightly clarifies that cooperating churches must not affirm, appoint, or employ women as pastors. It draws a line in the sand, giving our convention a clear standard tied to Scripture and our confessional identity.

    We should be thankful for the Law Amendment. It provides needed clarity in a time of confusion. But we must also acknowledge its limitation: it addresses the use of the title “pastor,” but not the exercise of pastoral function or authority under different titles.

    This is where further reform is needed.

    A Proposal for Further Reform: Clarifying by Function, Not Just Title

    To preserve the spirit and theological intent of the Law Amendment, a further amendment to the SBC Constitution could be introduced to address this loophole directly. Such an amendment might read:

    “A church which affirms, appoints, or employs a woman in any position that exercises any function or authority reserved for the office of pastor/elder/overseer—such as authoritative teaching to the gathered church, spiritual oversight, or the shepherding of souls—regardless of title, is not in friendly cooperation with the Southern Baptist Convention.”

    This proposed language would reinforce the Law Amendment by applying biblical principles to both title and function, consistent with the pattern of pastoral leadership outlined in Scripture. It would help protect the integrity of our ecclesiology and prevent churches from complying in name while compromising in practice.

    Needed Reform Beyond Amendments

    Beyond constitutional changes, the SBC must continue to:

    1. Strengthen Doctrinal Accountability – Evaluate churches not just on what they say or title, but what they do. Functional egalitarianism under a different name is still egalitarianism.
    2. Equip Churches Theologically – Many churches are simply unaware of what Scripture teaches about the office and function of pastors. Our entities and seminaries must teach ecclesiology clearly and boldly.
    3. Celebrate Lay Ministry – Women and unordained men can—and should—exercise significant ministry in the life of the church. But when the only path to affirmation is to stretch the biblical definition of pastoring, we’ve lost our way.

    Conclusion: Real Faithfulness, Not Just Symbolic Wins

    We must make clear: upholding biblical qualifications for pastors does not devalue the indispensable contributions of women in the church. God has gifted His daughters for ministry (Romans 16:1–2; Philippians 4:3), and there is much work to be done that is not confined to the office of elder. But when we redefine roles in a way that bypasses Scripture, we blur God’s design and bring confusion to His people.

    The Law Amendment is a good and necessary step, and Southern Baptists should strongly support it. But it is not the end—it must be the foundation of a broader return to biblical clarity, ecclesiological conviction, and theological courage.

    We need not only the right titles but the right practices. We need not only confessional alignment but functional obedience. We need not only truth in print, but truth in action.

    Let’s not settle for appearances. Let’s pursue real, lasting faithfulness.

  • The Trump and Elon Feud and SBC Cooperation

    What Two Billionaires Can Teach Us About the Need for Unity in the Church

    In recent weeks, headlines have spotlighted a public unraveling of the once-curious alliance between Donald Trump and Elon Musk. Once praised by Trump and courted by Musk, the relationship has devolved into social media barbs and personal insults. Trump has labeled Musk “a BS artist,” while Musk has increasingly distanced himself from Trump’s brand of politics. Their high-profile “breakup” is just another example of the culture of fragmentation that defines our age.

    Social media makes it easy to sever ties. A disagreement? Block. A moment of offense? Unfollow. A different worldview? Cancel. Our tools have discipled us in the habits of disunity—removing nuance and patience in favor of fast takes and instant tribalism. This is the air we breathe, and whether we admit it or not, it’s shaping our institutions—including the church.

    The SBC: A Big Tent in a Divided Age

    The Southern Baptist Convention is a diverse body. Theologically, ethnically, generationally, and geographically, we bring a lot of differences to the table. And in recent years, those differences have grown sharper. Social issues, political alignments, leadership conflicts, and theological emphasis have all contributed to rising tensions. Many are tempted to throw up their hands and walk away—to treat the church like social media: if you don’t like what you see, just “block” the whole convention.

    But the SBC isn’t Twitter. It’s not a platform built on clout or algorithms. It’s a people united by a common confession and a Great Commission. What makes the SBC work—at its best—is not uniformity, but cooperation. We voluntarily link arms to plant churches, send missionaries, train pastors, and preach the gospel to a lost and dying world. That mission is too important to walk away from.

    Unity Without Compromise

    Our culture is confused about unity. It either means total agreement or total silence. But biblical unity is something different. It’s grounded in truth and expressed in love. As Paul wrote to the Philippians, we are to be “of one mind, striving side by side for the faith of the gospel” (Phil. 1:27). Not identical minds, but a shared direction.

    We don’t need to agree on everything to cooperate in gospel work. But we do need clarity about what matters most. That’s why our confession of faith matters. That’s why doctrinal integrity must never be sacrificed on the altar of pragmatism or politics. And that’s why we must resist the cultural impulse to divide every time there’s friction. The kingdom is bigger than our tribes, and the gospel is stronger than our algorithms.

    Conclusion: Hold the Line Together

    Trump and Musk may go their separate ways, each with their own platforms and followings. But the church cannot afford to mimic their model of fragmentation. If we become just another reflection of the world’s division, we lose our witness.

    As Southern Baptists head into another convention season, let us remember: we are not bound together by personalities or platforms, but by doctrine and mission. Let the world feud. Let the church be different.

  • Beyond the Conservative Resurgence

    Why Past Movements Were Not Enough—and What the SBC Needs Now

    In the late 20th century, the Conservative Resurgence rescued the Southern Baptist Convention from doctrinal drift. It restored biblical inerrancy in our seminaries, pulpits, and denominational institutions. This was no small feat—it preserved theological faithfulness for a new generation.

    Then came the Great Commission Resurgence, calling us to a renewed focus on evangelism, church planting, and global mission. With declining baptisms and a changing culture, it reminded Southern Baptists that our doctrinal fidelity must also drive missional urgency.

    But as we reflect now, we must ask: did either movement transform the soul of our churches?
    We have right beliefs—and we’ve declared right priorities. But our churches remain divided, disillusioned, and in many places, declining.

    Southern Baptists do not need another branding campaign or strategic slogan. We need a true resurgence—not just of ideas, but of people. A renewal that begins in the pew, not just on the platform.

    Here are six essential resurgences the SBC must embrace to move faithfully into the future.

    1. A Resurgence of Integrity

    The Southern Baptist Convention has weathered doctrinal battles—but now faces a crisis of trust. Many Southern Baptists believe the theological convictions we fought to preserve are being undermined by institutional secrecy, platform protection, and personal ambition. The issue isn’t merely orthodoxy—it’s credibility.

    Why it’s needed:
    In a time when confidence in leadership is eroding, we need leaders and institutions whose lives and practices match the gospel they proclaim. If we lose integrity, we lose the ability to lead.

    What it looks like:

    • Financial transparency in our entities and institutions, with clear accountability to the churches that fund them.
    • Building trust among messengers, not through managed narratives, but through openness, repentance when necessary, and a return to servant-hearted leadership.
    • Leaders who walk humbly, avoiding personal empire-building and resisting the temptation to treat the SBC as a career ladder or political arena.
    • Churches that expect godly character, not just communication skills or charisma, from their pastors and leaders.

    “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.” – Proverbs 11:3

    2. A Resurgence of Discipleship

    Southern Baptists have long measured ministry success by decisions and attendance. But far too often, we’ve made converts without making disciples. The result is spiritual immaturity in our churches and generational drift in our families.

    Why it’s needed:
    We cannot build gospel churches on shallow soil. And we cannot expect the next generation to walk with Christ if we do not teach them how.

    What it looks like:

    • Intentional, relational discipleship—not just programs, but people walking with people in the ways of Christ.
    • Family discipleship, where parents—and especially fathers—are equipped to teach, model, and shepherd their children in the faith (Eph. 6:4).
    • Biblical literacy, with churches prioritizing Scripture memory, meditation, and obedience—not just inspirational content.
    • Training lay leaders, raising up deacons, elders, teachers, and counselors from within the congregation.

    “Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you…” – Matthew 28:20

    3. A Resurgence of Unity in the Gospel

    We are fragmented. Not just politically or theologically—but relationally. The SBC has become a battlefield of tribes, factions, and personalities, where brothers in Christ are treated as enemies because of differing emphases or affiliations.

    Why it’s needed:
    We cannot fight side by side for the lost when we’re firing shots at each other. Gospel unity is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.

    What it looks like:

    • Refusing tribalism—choosing fellowship with faithful brothers and sisters even when we don’t agree on every strategy or secondary issue.
    • Keeping the main things central—like Christ crucified, the authority of Scripture, and the need for the nations to hear the gospel.
    • Disagreeing with humility, rejecting online scorched-earth tactics, and speaking truth seasoned with grace.

    “There is one body and one Spirit… one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all.” – Ephesians 4:4–6

    4. A Resurgence of Church Health

    You cannot send strong missionaries from sick churches. The SBC has focused heavily on church planting and multiplication—which is essential. But far too many established churches are spiritually stagnant, unbiblically led, or dying.

    Why it’s needed:
    The foundation of the SBC is not its entities or its mission boards. It’s the local church. If our churches are unhealthy, our Convention has no future.

    What it looks like:

    • Qualified pastors and elders, who lead with courage, conviction, and compassion.
    • Meaningful membership, where church rolls reflect regenerate believers in real community.
    • Expository preaching and Christ-centered worship, feeding the sheep, not entertaining the goats.
    • Support for revitalization, encouraging faithful pastors of smaller churches and resisting the idolatry of church size or fame.

    “The church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth.” – 1 Timothy 3:15

    5. A Resurgence of Physical Presence in a World of Followers and Likes

    We live in an age of digital disembodiment—TikToks over tables, threads over truth, clicks over community. The SBC must resist the gravitational pull of the virtual by reasserting the beauty and necessity of the local, visible, gathered church.

    Why it’s needed:
    Online influence has too often replaced in-person shepherding. But the body of Christ was never meant to be a brand—it is a body.

    What it looks like:

    • Churches that prioritize presence: gathering in person, breaking bread, laying hands, weeping and rejoicing together.
    • Pastors who know their people and walk with them, not just broadcast sermons.
    • Disciples who live in proximity, not merely affinity.

    “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” – John 1:14
    “Let us not neglect to meet together…” – Hebrews 10:25

    6. A Resurgence of Clarity and Conviction in a World of Ambiguity

    We are living in a fog of postmodern confusion—about truth, gender, morality, and even salvation itself. Many churches are tempted to trade clarity for complexity, fearing offense more than fearing God.

    Why it’s needed:
    The world is not looking for another vague voice. It needs truth. Spoken with love, yes—but spoken clearly, without compromise.

    What it looks like:

    • Preaching with doctrinal precision, applying God’s Word boldly to cultural lies and spiritual error.
    • Standing firm on God’s design for manhood and womanhood, marriage, and the sanctity of life.
    • Holding fast to salvation by grace alone through faith alone, without theological drift or equivocation.
    • Teaching with theological depth, equipping people to stand firm in a world that is constantly shifting.

    “If the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” – 1 Corinthians 14:8 (KJV)

    Final Word: Not a Platform but a People

    The Conservative Resurgence gave us our doctrinal foundation.
    The Great Commission Resurgence gave us a missional framework.
    Now, we need a resurgence that gives us spiritual formation—in the pews, in our homes, and in our pulpits.

    We need leaders of integrity.
    We need churches that make disciples.
    We need a fellowship built on the gospel.
    We need pastors rooted in real communities.
    We need truth spoken in love and without fear.

    This next resurgence must not be top-down, but grassroots.
    Not powered by politics, but prayer.
    Not about reclaiming influence, but reclaiming faithfulness.

    Let it begin not in a task force, but in your local church.
    Let it begin with us.

  • Book Recommendation: SBC FAQs: A Ready Reference by Keith Harper and Amy Whitfield.

    SBC FAQs: A Ready Reference is an excellent primer for anyone seeking to understand the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC)—whether you’re a new church member, a curious observer, or a seasoned Southern Baptist wanting a clearer grasp of how our denomination functions. In a straightforward and accessible format, this resource provides concise answers to the most common questions about who we are, what we believe, how we’re structured, and why we do things the way we do.

    The book excels at presenting complex topics—such as the Cooperative Program, the roles of our entities, the autonomy of local churches, and the process of resolutions and motions at the annual meeting—in a clear and understandable manner. It’s well-organized and easy to navigate, making it a handy reference for pastors, church leaders, and laypeople alike.

    What makes SBC FAQs especially valuable is its balanced blend of historical insight and practical explanation. It gives readers a strong grasp of our theological convictions, our commitment to missions and evangelism, and the unique way Southern Baptists cooperate for the sake of the gospel—without requiring a deep background in denominational life.

    Whether you’re looking to introduce someone to Southern Baptist life or refresh your own understanding of our denomination’s identity and structure, SBC FAQs is a trustworthy and helpful guide. It reflects the clarity, transparency, and conviction that Southern Baptists strive for as we serve together for the cause of Christ.

  • Sound Doctrine Still Matters: Why the Renewed Law-Sanchez Amendment Deserves Our Support

    Southern Baptists have long stood on the twin pillars of sound doctrine and the Great Commission. For nearly two centuries, our cooperative mission has been built not on centralized authority but on shared, biblical convictions—most clearly expressed in our confessional statement, the Baptist Faith and Message 2000 (BFM2000).

    But in recent years, that doctrinal unity has been tested. Growing confusion over the biblical qualifications for pastors, along with inconsistent responses to churches that depart from our confession, have made it clear: we need clarity.

    That is why we support the renewed effort to adopt the Law-Sanchez Amendment in 2025.

    Why the Law Amendment Was Proposed

    In 2023, Pastor Mike Law of Arlington, Virginia, submitted a motion to amend the SBC Constitution. The proposed language was clear and biblical:

    “A church in friendly cooperation with the Convention… affirms, appoints, or employs only men as any kind of pastor or elder as qualified by Scripture.”

    This amendment did not introduce new theology—it sought to ensure that our constitutional documents reflect the biblical doctrine already affirmed in the BFM2000, which states:

    “While both men and women are gifted for service in the church, the office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture.”

    At the 2023 SBC Annual Meeting in New Orleans, the amendment received overwhelming support, passing with over 80% of the vote—the first of two votes required for constitutional amendments.

    The 2024 Setback and the NewSpring Church Controversy

    In 2024, at the SBC Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, the Law Amendment fell short of the two-thirds vote needed for final adoption. Though a majority still supported it, the defeat sent mixed signals about where the Convention stands on confessional clarity.

    That confusion was quickly magnified when the SBC Credentials Committee ruled that NewSpring Church in Anderson, South Carolina, remained in friendly cooperation with the Convention—despite having a woman, Meredith Knox, serve publicly as a “teaching pastor” who regularly preaches.

    NewSpring maintains that only men can serve as “lead pastors” or elders, but the title and role of “teaching pastor” clearly places Knox in a pastoral office—contrary to the BFM2000. Despite this, the Credentials Committee declined to recommend disfellowship, stating that there was not enough clarity in the SBC Constitution to make that determination.

    This moment exposed the urgent need for the very clarity the Law Amendment was designed to provide.

    A Renewed Effort in 2025: The Law-Sanchez Amendment

    Now, in 2025, a renewed effort is underway—spearheaded by faithful leaders including Juan Sanchez—to bring the amendment forward again for a vote. The language remains consistent:

    “A church in friendly cooperation with the Convention… affirms, appoints, or employs only men as any kind of pastor or elder as qualified by Scripture.”

    This is not about controlling local churches. It is about defining what cooperation means. Churches are autonomous—they can structure leadership as they choose. But the SBC is likewise autonomous in determining the terms of friendly cooperation. We are not obligated to cooperate with churches that depart from Scripture on the nature of the pastoral office.

    This amendment would bring our Constitution into alignment with our confession and allow our committees to act with integrity and consistency.

    Why It Matters

    This is not a side issue. It is about our shared identity, our theological integrity, and our missional effectiveness. If we cannot clearly define what a pastor is—and if we do not hold ourselves accountable to the doctrines we affirm—we risk losing both our unity and our witness.

    Supporting the Law-Sanchez Amendment:

    • Reaffirms our commitment to the sufficiency of Scripture
    • Clarifies expectations for churches in friendly cooperation
    • Equips SBC leaders and committees to act consistently
    • Protects the mission by upholding biblical church order

    Confessional cooperation is the bedrock of our work together. If that foundation is compromised, our future mission will falter.

    A Call to Faithful Clarity

    The SBC does not need more division or more politics. It needs more clarity, more biblical conviction, and more faithfulness.

    In a culture where truth is negotiable and roles are reinvented, we must not lose our grip on Scripture. The Law-Sanchez Amendment is an opportunity to plant our feet firmly on the Word of God—for the good of our churches and the glory of Christ.

    Let’s speak clearly, act faithfully, and cooperate courageously.

    Let us adopt the Law-Sanchez Amendment in 2025.

    Because sound doctrine still matters. And it always will.

  • Holding Fast: Our Confessional Heritage in an Age of Cultural Chaos

    In a world of shifting opinions and constantly changing headlines, we need anchors. We need truth that doesn’t bend to the whims of culture or buckle under the pressure of public opinion. For Southern Baptists, that anchor has always been the Word of God—and flowing from it, a historic commitment to sound doctrine. That commitment has been expressed, defended, and passed down through our confessions of faith.

    The New Hampshire Confession: Clarity and Charity

    One of the most influential Baptist confessions in American history is the New Hampshire Confession of Faith, written in 1833. It emerged at a time when Baptists were growing rapidly across the United States and needed a clear, concise, and accessible summary of core Baptist beliefs. While earlier confessions like the Second London Baptist Confession (1689) were more comprehensive and theologically rich, the New Hampshire Confession was crafted with clarity and unity in mind—especially for churches across the growing American frontier.

    It was doctrinally sound, biblically rooted, and pastorally sensitive. It affirmed the authority of Scripture, salvation by grace through faith, believer’s baptism, and the autonomy of the local church. While it wasn’t exhaustive, it served as a unifying document among Baptists, particularly in the North and later in the South.

    The Baptist Faith and Message: A Confession for Cooperation

    When the Southern Baptist Convention was formed in 1845, it did not initially adopt a confessional statement. But as the Convention grew and formal institutions developed, leaders recognized the need for a clear doctrinal foundation. In 1925, under the leadership of E.Y. Mullins, the SBC adopted its first official confession: the Baptist Faith and Message—a modern adaptation of the New Hampshire Confession.

    This confession was not meant to replace the Bible, but to summarize what Southern Baptists believe the Bible teaches. It served as a confessional guardrail—a doctrinal standard to protect the integrity of our seminaries, our churches, and our mission.

    Revisions for the Right Reasons

    The Baptist Faith and Message has been revised three times—in 1963, 1998, and 2000—but not to chase cultural trends. On the contrary, these revisions came in response to cultural and theological drift.

    • In 1963, under the leadership of Herschel Hobbs, the BFM was revised to address theological liberalism and reaffirm the authority of Scripture.
    • In 1998, a statement on the family was added, affirming biblical roles for men and women in the home and church as culture increasingly redefined gender and marriage.
    • In 2000, under the leadership of Adrian Rogers, the BFM was revised again to clarify core doctrines, reinforce complementarianism, and underscore the exclusivity of Christ.

    Each revision was a response to error, not an accommodation of it. Southern Baptists have never been perfect, but we have long recognized that faithfulness requires clarity, especially when the truths of Scripture are under attack.

    Our Future in a World of Noise

    We now live in an age where truth is treated as personal, feelings are elevated over facts, and cultural winds shift by the day. Social media reshapes public opinion in hours. Newsfeeds flood us with competing narratives. Even among churches, doctrinal conviction is often traded for cultural acceptance or organizational pragmatism.

    But if we lose our doctrinal foundations, we lose everything.

    The Southern Baptist commitment to sound doctrine is not just a nod to the past—it is a necessity for the future. We cannot fulfill the Great Commission without the true gospel. We cannot build healthy churches without a right understanding of Scripture. We cannot pass the faith to the next generation if we don’t clearly articulate what we believe and why.

    Our confessions are not relics of a bygone era. They are roadmaps—guiding us back to the truth in every generation. And in a day of chaos, they call us to stand firm.

    A Call to Hold Fast

    As Southern Baptists, we must hold fast to our confessional heritage—not out of nostalgia, but out of conviction. The winds of culture will continue to shift. Pressures will mount to soften our doctrine, redefine our beliefs, or remain silent for the sake of acceptance. But we must be people who, like Paul, say: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation” (Romans 1:16).

    We have a gospel to proclaim, a truth to defend, and a foundation that cannot be moved.

    Let us be the kind of people who know what we believe, hold it with courage, and teach it with clarity. Let our churches be marked by doctrinal soundness, gospel conviction, and missional urgency—not because the culture demands it, but because Christ is worthy.

    The world will keep changing. But God’s Word will not.

    And neither must we.

    Let us remain steadfast—rooted in Scripture, faithful to our confession, and unwavering in our mission to make Christ known among the nations.