If Money Ever Replaces Principles…

Ethics Daily reports that

A second group canceled plans to rent LifeWay Glorieta Conference Center in response to a recently publicized policy banning groups using the Southern Baptist Convention-owned facility from promoting homosexuality. According to The New Mexican, Sante Fe College administrators decided this week to hold graduation ceremonies on campus instead of the Southern Baptist Convention-owned facility, where the event had been held since 2004.

Good.  If the SBC or Lifeway ever place money above right practice, they are doomed.  Sadly, frankly, there’s already too much “selling out” going on in churches- many of which have adopted Madison Avenue as their lord and guide.

Is Peace on the Horizon?

A Nashville TV station reports

Southern Baptists, who seem to always be arguing about something, are now asking for peace.  Two key leaders in the Southern Baptist Convention are calling for all Baptists to set aside their differences and find their common ground.   Southern Baptists have a reputation for disagreeing with one another and unfortunately, it is a reputation that is well-earned.   Baptist Pastor Dr. Jon Roebuck said, “I think we get in trouble in Baptist life when we try to call ourselves to conformity that every church has to believe everything the same way.”   …  While most agree on the core Baptist beliefs; issues about money, social issues and the role of women in ministry have been the source of constant disagreements over the past 20 years.  Many times, those disagreements turn ugly.  Those differences are having an impact.  Last year, Southern Baptists baptized the fewest number of people in the last 12 years and according to the Southern Baptist Convention, more than 70% of churches are either declining in membership or not growing at all.  “I do think negative publicity and infighting between Baptist groups hurts that witness. If people on theoutside look at our churches and say, ‘All Baptists do is fight.’ Who would be drawn to that?”  …  Dr. Page said anything that has divided Southern Baptists in the past is now up for discussion.  That includes the ordination of female deacons and ministers.