I was asked a great question recently that is pertinent to this blog posting and future postings. “Why are you going to the Southern Baptist Convention?” This is a great question because church resources are being used, I have not gone the previous five years I have been pastor at UBC, and in Baptist principle our church direction is not necessarily dictated by the decisions of the convention. We do what we do out of conviction.
The answer is of course nuanced, but I will try to lay out the simple reasons I gave when asked directly. They are both practical and convictional. First, though it is a lengthy drive, (Brent has to put up with me in a car for 11 hours, ONE WAY!!) it is a reasonable distance and easy to get to in a short amount of time. Secondly, we do support the Southern Baptist Convention as part of our church giving, and this is an opportunity to see that giving in action through agency reports, informational presentations and exhibits. Thirdly, is the Law Amendment. You can a read mostly unbiased explanation here and a particular viewpoint here. This amendment was introduced last year and passed the first vote. It has to be approved this year to become part of the SBC constitution. I want to represent my own convictions and the interests of those of you who have talked to me about this. I plan to vote “No” on the amendment. Finally, I am going to be able to give an account beyond what might be released in social media exchanges or end up as headlines in news reports. Brent Newsom is the other UBC messenger, and he will be able to offer his perspective as well.
Brent and I plan to arrive in Indianapolis on Monday evening. I will try to post with some regularity. I have turned the comments “off” so that conversation and questions can be handled in a contextually clear way. Please feel free to email me at jdunnok@gmail.com or text me with any specific questions or opinions.