There is still another day to go here but a lot has already happened at the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) this year. We’re in Nashville this week for what was expected to be, at times, a testy family gathering. Largely, that has proven not to be the case in the room. Now, you might not know that if all you knew about the convention happenings was based on various social media platforms.
Recommendations from the Executive Committee, including the 2021-22 Cooperative Program Allocation Budget, were put before messengers. While the CP Allocation Budget was approved, messengers soundly rejected the Recommendation 7 which sought to amend the Business and Financial Plan—an expression of the SBC’s expectations regarding cooperation between and among the entities, Convention, and its Executive Committee—in ways that messengers were clearly uncomfortable with. For my part, while I think I understand the intention behind the revisions, I was glad to see Recommendation 7 rejected by messengers.
Messengers had a lot to say about the resolutions brought before them during the day. Amendments were offered—some accepted and some rejected—to the slate of resolutions. Having served on the Resolutions Committee of the Georgia Baptist Convention last year, I have sincere appreciation for the work that goes into those resolutions and am grateful for those who serve on the committee.
While all of this year’s resolutions are noteworthy, I was particularly appreciative of the passage of Resolution 2 which affirms the sufficiency of Scripture for race and racial reconciliation. Dr. James Merritt, chairman of the 2021 Resolutions Committee, articulated the resolution in clear terms that messengers overwhelmingly supported. The committee also—wisely in my view—withdrew Resolution 7 which addressed Christian Citizenship.
The presidential election went to a second ballot which was not surprising. After that second ballot, messengers learned Alabama pastor Ed Litton defeated Georgia pastor Mike Stone (52% to 48%). The close vote reflects a convention of churches that are divided about a number of issues and how best to address them as we move forward. At the time of writing, 1st & 2nd vice presidents have yet to be determined.
Today (Wednesday) we will hear reports from various entities among other business. Of particular interest for me is hearing from our seminary presidents. I am a strong proponent of theological education and our six seminaries are among the finest institutions for theological education in the world.
I’ll post a more thorough review once the convention concludes and we’ve returned to Valdosta.