Letters to the Baptist Standard

76 Letters by 59 People, May 2001 to May 2002 & Noted (Arraigned by Date)
Tom Eliff, told the new SBC president, Page Patterson, that all barnacles and parasites had been removed from the ship of Zion.
1. Barnacle survivor July 29, 1998___If I was a seminary teacher or maybe a missionary, I could have been shook from the boat or cut from the tree long ago. But I’m just a construction volunteer looking forward to my ninth trip of building churches or missionary homes in Japan. I’ve just received a usual “Certificate of Appreciation, May-June 1998” on behalf of the Southern Baptist Convention. This “barnacle” and “parasite” is wondering if there is a double standard.___Rex Ray___Grand Prairie

Jeff Whitfield criticizing Russell Dilday, and Jerry Rankin’s request to missionaries as recorded in the Board’s documents April 1997.
2. ‘Pondered’ vs. love January 13, 1999___In his letter (Dec. 23), Jeff Whitfield “pondered” the words of Baptist General Convention of Texas President Russell Dilday, “We Texas Baptist don’t like anyone telling us what to do except God himself.”___Whitfield said, “But I wonder if we are more citizens of Texas than we are citizens of the kingdom of heaven.”___I think Dilday believes in the priesthood of man that has spiritual leaders but not spiritual bosses. Would Whitfield have liked for Dilday to say the opposite? “We like anyone telling us what to do except God.”___That’s what the Hebrew people did when they told God they wanted a king. That’s what early Christians did when they became obedient to a pope. That’s what happened two years ago when a letter requested our missionaries to have “a confidence and willingness to follow the wisdom and guidance of God-appointed leadership, whether we necessarily understand or agree.”___Notice Whitfield and the letter both said “we” but meant “you.”___Rex Ray___Grand Prairie

3. Enough is enough August 18, 1999___I’m in favor of the Baptist General Convention of Texas’ ‘slander’ committee and Executive Board member Dan Curry saying, “Enough is enough.”___On the other hand, how do we fulfill Christ’s words (“...love one another; as I have loved you.”) by moderates telling conservatives, “I’m sorry my nose got blood on your fist” when they’re really thinking, “Enough is enough”?___Rex Ray___Grand Prairie

4. Second best October 13, 1999___I miss the old songs. Sometimes I wonder if I’m out of God’s will or if I’m just that old hippie trying to hold on to the old but surrounded by the new. I feel like the captured Jews when they were told to sing and their reply was they could not.___I did not rebel against my parent’s songs but learned them by heart and sang them with joy. Each song had a message, showing God’s love for me. The church has gone overboard on praise songs. Can they touch a sinner’s heart like “Amazing Grace’, “Nothing but the Blood”,or “At Calvary”?___Why have we settled for second best? Did it happen because the 20-year control by conservatives has taught our song leaders a “better” way”? You hear only them and a loud organ.___Is there sound when a tree falls in the forest? Do people sing when never heard? How sweet it is when no instruments are blaring and the leader steps back and there are voices. The captured Jews are no long captives...they’re singing. ___Rex Ray___Grand Prairie

5. Heretics & Moderates February 2, 2000 Similarity of Heretics and Moderates1. They were told their brothers should love them “as much as I love you.”2. Accusers gave them slanderous names.3. Their names should have been ‘original’ and accuser’s ‘radical.’4. Were criticized. Moderates were called barnacles, parasites, snakes, ungodly.5. Falsely accused. New convention’s Plumbline: Deny deity of Christ, call for ordination of gays, defend distribution of child pornography.6. Rejected leader’s new Bible theology. Heretics rejected leaders making Lord’s supper into graven image, (wine into blood, etc.) Moderates wondered how the Holy Spirit used the Bible 1900 years without leader’s new word ‘inerrant’ and rejected them making the Bible a graven imagine.7. Considered non-Bible believers.8. Fellowship withdrawn. “I cannot have fellowship with those who do not believe the Bible is the inerrant word of God.” Coffey, president of new convention.9. Persecuted by fellow Christians. One burned at stakes. Other fired from jobs.10. Recipients of deepest hatred in the world...religious hatred.11. Had attitude of song verse. “Though the church is moving, I shall not be moved.” History records leaders improving on God. In spite of Peter’s“...are you going to correct God...?”, Christian Judaism improved how Peter saw Gentiles saved. Leaders improved symbol of Baptism into saving babies, improved symbol of Christ’s blood into reality, and now leaders have improved the Bible into being perfect. Maybe it is the way it is to keep us from worshipping the messenger.___Rex Ray___Grand Prairie

6. Lost love June 16, 2000___Should a ‘think tank’ replace the Holy Spirit in teaching Scripture? Priesthood of each Christian is Baptist belief. They are making cobwebs that snare trusting people. We need to vote the spiders out of office.___They twist Scripture that makes husband and wife a beautiful partnership into a pecking order. Now they say, “Scripture cannot be set against Scripture.” Does that mean other Scripture cannot be used to prove their interpretation wrong? That road leads to a pope.___Those that make ‘inerrancy’ their God will scream with Jim Richards (11-18-98) “Those who depart theologically will be identified and called to repent.” Sounds like their refusal to know truth has erased any love for their brother and they’d like an Inquisition to deal with heretics.___Rex Ray___Grand Prairie

7. Milk vs. Meat October 2, 2000 ___Today, as in the days of Paul, it’s milk vs. meat Christians. Milk Christians judge themselves superior by pushing rules. Acts 15 debates Catholic rules vs. Baptist grace. Peter shamed them by asking if they would correct God. Catholic roots celebrated that superiors could dictate theology, and a letter that added “necessary” to rules while omitting Peter’s “all are saved by the grace of Jesus.” ___Acts 21 tells how Paul’s life was in danger because the milky majority thought he was against their rules. The suggestion by teachers of milkies put Paul in enemy hands. Their failure to stand for him at his trial cause him to die in prison. They never visited him. Paul concluded: “At my first trial, no man stood for me...I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.” That was Stephen’s prayer. Was it the same crime?___Paul’s words were interpreted by the Baptist Faith and Message for what he fought against. They believe God can call rocks to preach but forbid him to call women. How will they answer Peter’s question? Will they make 1,600 Southern Baptist ordained women and their churches repent? They say our priesthood must conform to the group. They eliminated interpreting the Bible through the eyes of Jesus. If a pope interprets Scripture for the rest to follow, are we Catholic when a milky hand-picked committee does likewise?___Rex Ray___Bonham

8. Back to basics March 18, 2001___Institutions of the Baptist General Convention of Texas were tempted by the new Southern Baptists of Texas Convention like Jesus was tempted:___ They were approached.___ The bait was genuine. They would receive what was desirable.___ The demand was to accept new theology.___So far, all followed the example of Jesus.___"Sheep-stealing and cattle-rustling" (Feb. 26) is factual. It's sad some good hearts use shallow thinking in labeling men and the Baptist Standard as trouble makers because they report trouble. Rebels always cut communication--thus cut the Standard.___Trouble? Southwestern Seminary President Ken Hemphill's statement: The revised Baptist Faith & Message is not being forced upon anyone, and requiring faculty at seminaries to sign it should not alarm anyone (Feb. 26). That's double talk. Teachers are someone. "Require" and "forced" are identical when fired.___Trouble? Missionaries don't have to sign but must live by it, and if they disagree with any part, they are not allowed to discuss it with anyone.___Will this require a Baptist KGB?___It's like ultra-conservative theology "not forced" on Gentiles in Acts 15, which Paul fought against the rest of his life but lost. History not heeded is paving another Catholic road.___Instead of growth, we've lost career missionaries. It's time to rescue them from their ultra-conservative God?-appointed bosses who have fooled the majority. It's time to remove creeds and let them have freedom in Christ.___It's time to get back to being Baptist.___ Rex Ray___ Bonham

9. Savage wolves May 14, 2001___Will it ever be as the Apostle Paul predicted to the elders of Ephesus? "I know that when I am gone, savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise who will distort the truth in order to get the disciples to break away and follow them" (Acts 20:28-30).___The "savage wolves" in Paul's time must have been the Judaizers, but the leaders who seek to seduce the "dumb sheep" with lies about their brothers and sisters in Christ appear to be alive and active in Texas in our time (April 30).___The most frightening-to-the-sheep accusation used by these distorters is the "L" word. "Liberal" has become a pejorative term, the ultimate demeaning appellation, another "sheep dog" used to force the flock into the fundamentalist fold.___Anger is mixed with sorrow in my soul!___ J. Lillian Brown___ Austin

10. True witness June 11, 2001___Thank you, BGCT leaders, for publicly stating the truth about Texas Baptists in the face of ongoing false witness (May 28).___When some pastors keep their congregations ignorant by restricting access to the Baptist Standard and repeating the slanders of people like Roger Moran, you have little choice than to go to the secular press. Interesting the often-vilified secular press becomes a vehicle for the truth.___In Missouri, the fundamentalist party has repeated untruths so loudly and so long the lies have been accepted without question.___The "world" already knows about the Baptist wars, and the world needs to know that all Southern Baptists are not like the current power brokers.___Thank you, Texas Baptists, for being true to God's word and holding to historic Baptist principles.___ Michael Olmsted___ Springfield, Mo.

11. Cooperative giving June 11, 2001___What about cooperative giving? Who should decide how much should go to the SBC and how much stays in the state in which it was given? "Cooperation" is the key word. The question is why can't our modern "religious leaders" cooperate?___In Act 1:8, Jesus gives an important and necessary principle. We need to start where we are and go to "the ends." Not following this principle is part of the problem with Cooperative Program giving.___It is one thing for local church leaders to condemn members who withhold or redirect tithes and offerings from their church budgets when the members are not happy with how the money is used. It is a different matter when that same leadership encourages those same members, as a church body, to withhold or redirect funds that go to local associations or state conventions when the leaders are not happy with how the money is used. Their justification appears to be the same.___In Matthew 12:22-30, Jesus talks about accusations and divisiveness. He says a house divided against itself will fall. It is irresponsible for pastors of large churches to intentionally influence other churches to withdraw from Baptist General Convention of Texas funding and contribute directly to the SBC. This surely is dividing our house against itself.___Many Southern Baptists think that because the pastor of a large church says something it must be right. It is better to heed the words of Jesus.
___ Larry W. Walker___ Beaumont

12. Easy labels June 11, 2001___I have just retired after 32 in the ministry, including 27 years with two state conventions.___In my entire ministry, other than being asked by my ordination council, I never have been asked my theological beliefs. However, many have labeled me moderate or liberal and accused me of not believing basic doctrines because I have been a denominational worker.___Even the pastor of my home church told me once he wanted to take back my ordination papers because I worked for the denomination. (Funny thing; I had only met him once.) When I stand before my God, I will not be ashamed to face him.___In my 21 years with the BGCT, I have strongly felt that God led me, guided me and had me in the proper place where I could best serve him. I have served with some of the most dedicated men and women who have some of the same God-led feelings I do. We have spent our weekdays and many weekends on the road away from our local churches and our families, all because of our commitment to serve Texas Baptists. You think you know us? You do not know us at all.___Did not Jesus chastise the hypocrites? Although it saddens me to have lived and worked under such a label, I have not allowed it to interfere with my calling and in retirement will be obedient to God's call.___ Robert E. Parrish___ Dallas

13. Godly role model June 11, 2001___I wish to comment about one of the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary professors who chose not to sign the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message (May 7)--Jeph Holloway, professor ofChristian ethics.___While I was chairperson of the department of Christian ethics at Southwestern, Jeph was my graduate assistant and teaching fellow.___Jeph was one of the brightest and most godly graduate students I ever had. His Ph.D. dissertation was accepted for publication (a rarity) by the Society of Biblical Literature. He then served 10 years as Bible professor at Williams Baptist College in Arkansas (one of the mostconservative schools identified with the SBC). No one has ever questioned his commitment to the veracity and authority of Scripture.___Now he must leave Southwestern because the trustees have (after hiring Jeph) superimposed not merely the inerrancy of Scripture (always expected), but now minor "interpretations" of selected passages (wifely submission and no women pastors) as required orthodoxy for professors. More serious was the elimination of "Jesus Christ as thecriterion for interpretation" from the BF&M.
___This was done by fundamentalists, not conservatives. There is a huge difference.___Jeph Holloway is a healthy conservative, a superb teacher and a godly role model. To drive this man of brilliance, conviction, integrity and spirituality out of the classroom is an example of fundamentalism's stupidity and arrogance. Ken Chafin was right when he warned thatinerrancy will eventually require "inerrant interpreters" who will try to use their interpretations to control the rest of us.___ Guy Greenfield___ Amarillo

14. Battle lines June 11, 2001___The war between the SBC and the BGCT will play itself out, but it will not be pretty. You outlined the battle lines well in "BGCT says churches misled by lies and distortions" (April 30).___I recall another lie that made the rounds nearly 20 years ago, that Duke McCall, then president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, was a social drinker. It was a total lie, a complete distortionof an incident McCall experienced during a visit to China.___He went to the SBC Pastors’ Conference to "set the record straight." He then was given a public apology from the platform at the SBC annual meeting.___As much as I believe the Bible is God’s infallible, inerrant word, I am appalled and angered at my fellow Southern Baptists who are spreading lies based on guilt by association, and I feel equally so atthose who blindly repeat these lies. This is very un-biblical (1 John 4:10).___Equally untasteful is the reason these lies are being published. If those who are spreading these lies are afraid that some resources will be diverted from the work of the gospel, then these liars must serve a very weak God (Psalm 50:10, Matthew 6:25-33, Luke 12:22-34).___Remember this the next time someone hurls charges against the BGCT and certain individuals within it but fails to produce any proof. Remember, too, that battles and wars cause casualties!___Benny Bivins___Williamstown, Ky.

15. Sense of betrayal June 11, 2001___I’ve read the list of churches that have identified themselves with the fledgling Southern Baptist of Texas Convention. What surprised me the most was the fact three of those churches are former pastorates of mine, two of which are in Texarkana. Suddenly, I feel a sense of betrayal!___I’m not much of a creedal Baptist. Neither were our old-time Southern Baptist leaders. Our only creed is: "The Word became flesh and dwelt among men." Creeds are man-made and are always theproduct of personal prejudices and doctrinal preference.___Neither the 1963 nor the recent revision of the Baptist Faith & Message is Scripture. If we who insist on the 1963 version are liberals, then all of us are liberals because it was adopted by the SBCconvention.___Liberalism began with Jesus, who was the most articulate liberal of his day. He walked into the most radically conservative climate of all times and articulated a new gospel called "redemption by faith"—faith,as over against a rigid system of law which no man can keep. For this he was crucified.___A lot of godly men are still being crucified by the arch-conservatives, some of which are pastors of the finest churches in Texas.___Texas, ah yes, that’s where the arch-conservatives have their guillotines on which to execute by character assassination those who do not conform to their strict guidelines.___E.J. Kearney___Clermont, Fla.

16. Patched veil June 11, 2001___What is it with the fundamentalists that they are so afraid of the word "freedom"?___First, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary President Al Mohler says they believe in the "priesthood of the believers" but not the "priesthood of the believer," because it leaves too much freedom for theindividual. Then he says the conservatives are the party of truth while the moderates are the party of freedom.___Now the trustees at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary want to cut out a verse, which refers to freedom, from the school’s official hymn.___Are there those who would try to patch up the veil in the temple, so that we could not go to God directly? God help us!___I.W. Sparkman___Kopperl

17. Return to legalism July 30, 2001___I read David Sparks' "New dark age" (July 16). I assume he meant somehow that we are going back to a worse time.___I agree, except what we are being prodded into returning to is the legalism of New Testament days that both Christ and Paul spoke so much against.___Misinformation such as that attributed to Jimmy Carter in the letter is what keeps people confused about who the enemy is. Obviously, there are liberals out there, but too many good leaders in our church are being branded as liberal when they are not. And to make matters worse, we are being told we must fight liberalism with a return to legalism.___I say woe unto you who promote these untruths, because legalism was strongly condemned by Christ. We need to guard ourselves against false theology, but not through a return to legalism and a lack of tolerance for others.___Legalism would have us throw out the sinner with the sin. Christ's acceptance of the sinner was not an acceptance of the sin. Don't be sucked into this return to legalism.___ David Terry___ Palestine

18. Advance Christ Sept. 3, 2001___It is clear that most laypeople do not understand what really happened to the SBC and the damage done by the spirit of fundamentalism since 1979.___Because we have not understood, good Baptists have ignored the atrocities committed against mainstream leaders and have gone about the business of Christ's kingdom, praying this conflict would go away.___Because we have not understood, mainstream Christians continue to fund vicious acts against fellow Baptists by sending millions to the SBC Cooperative Program. We refuse to believe these gifts are used to destroy our brothers in Christ.___Because we have not understood, we have trusted SBC leaders, and we have overlooked changes that have so altered our convention and undermined its mission.___It is unbelievable Baptists will blindly follow fundamentalism without knowing where it is taking them. Without accurate information, they have allowed themselves to be caught up in its political agenda.___Mainstream Baptists know we do not have demonic leaders in our churches, seminaries and state conventions, as charged by SBC fundamentalists. It is shocking that fellow Baptists are capable ofhorrendous acts of falsely accusing other believers. We cannot fail to act in love toward Baptist brothers.___Now comes the reality that the SBC is lost forever from the mainstream majority. We now are forced to carry out our commission by other avenues.___I pray for all Baptists, in the struggle to advance Christ in a lost world, that we are led by his Spirit and his example to all believers.___ K.D. Boyd___ Granbury

19. Not moved Sept. 17, 2001___Legalists twisted doctrinal guidelines until only baptizing in Jesus' name would bring salvation, including babies. These roots of Catholics were an example of Christ's warning: "Many shall come in My name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many." (Mark 13:6) They could not claim to be Christ and come in his name, so it's Christian leaders, with twisted doctrine, who will fool the majority.___Some refused their doctrine and withdrew fellowship in 251 A.D. Their name, Anabaptist, was despised, much like the name "moderate" today. Moderates reject that authority is from the top down and other twisted doctrine of the majority.___Most Baptists don't get involved because they think it's only political. Do they know Sunday School quarterlies state, "The 2000 statement of the Baptist Faith & Message is our doctrinal guideline"?___In 1545, Catholics gave tradition equal authority with the Bible. Have conservatives done the same with their Baptist Faith & Message? Are they wolves with sheep names? "Many shall come in My name ...and shall deceive many."___Last year, Catholics apologized for establishing a holy office 817 years ago to kill those refusing to sign man-made doctrine. What holy office is firing Baptists today for not signing new doctrinal guidelines?___Anabaptists, burning at the stake, would join moderates in singing: "Though the church is moving, I shall not be moved." Both determined, "When having done all to stand, stand!"___ Rex Ray___ Bonham

20. How they feel Oct 29, 2001___While listening to President Bush speak about how the Taliban had "hijacked Islam" and how their fundamentalist diatribe and narrow-minded views have no relation to the historical views of Islam,it struck me, "I know just how our Muslim friends feel."___My denomination was hijacked by fundamentalists starting in the 1970s. A well-planned attack pitted believer against believer, the consequences of which we are still feeling to this day. Since that time,the landscape has been littered with the broken hearts and spirits of those who have had to fight an internal battle, constantly defending their beliefs as "good enough, right enough, far-right enough."___I'm thankful the BGCT has continued to resist the onslaught of fundamentalism.___ Larry Collins___ Dallas

21. Three classes Dec. 10, 2001___The typical church has at least three classes of members:___Full members--men who theoretically are eligible to hold any officein church.___Second-class members--divorced men, who are legalistically prohibited from ever serving as deacons.___Third-class members--women, because they not only are prohibited from serving as deacons but also from serving in several other capacities.___I suppose Galatians 3:26-28 and Romans 7:4-6 don't mean what they seem to say.___ Dale Person___ Marshall

22. Kudos for integrity Dec 31, 2001___Kudos to David Crutchley for the integrity he has shown while being treated so terribly at Southwestern Seminary.___As a former Southwestern student, and one who transferred after the firing of Russell Dilday, I would like to thank Miles Seaborn for being clear about the long-term plans for the seminary. He was less thanstraightforward back in 1994 when the trustees locked a good man, Dilday, out of his office and told him to pack his bags.___President Ken Hemphill and his overseers are correct: Professor Crutchley has no place at Southwestern Seminary. Along with those professors who have gone before him and been treated poorly in the name of God and theological inbreeding, he has too much integrity to remain at such a place. He saw through the wide smiles and a dressed-up demotion.___May God bless him and his family's travels.___Alan Wright___ Irving

23. Harsh temperament Dec. 31, 2001___Responding to Miles Seaborn statements concerning Southwestern Seminary: The real bankruptcy of people who impose their own fundamentalism is that they react from a harsh temperament.___There is a spirit of loveless and strife contributed by many in the fundamental leadership in the recent past. One of the ironies of contemporary church history is that the more fundamentalists stresslockstep positions as a theme in their churches, the more a spirit of loveless seems to prevail.___The theological conflict with supposed moderates and liberals has deteriorated into an attack upon organizations and personalities. This is evident with the recent issues concerning David Crutchley atSouthwestern.___Historically, fundamentalism was a theological position. The movement gradually came to signify a mood and disposition as well. The label of being a moderate means one's theology is discredited as aperversion of the scriptural theology. On the other hand, fundamentalism in the contemporary expression stands discredited as a perversion of the biblical spirit.___I found David Crutchley, along with many other professors at Southwestern, to be a man who was humble and sincere and loved the Lord with all his heart, soul and might. The railing accusations of someare without foundation. Their lack of love and understanding is reminiscent of the attitude of the Pharisees.___ Jerry Rogers___ Lewisville

24. Seeking power Jan 7, 2002___As a Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary student, I have wondered recently if the trustees of Southwestern are working for the best interests of the students. I chose to study at Southwestern because it has a rich heritage and a reputation for being a strong evangelical seminary. Many respected people who have impacted Southern Baptist life have been trained at Southwestern.___I began at Southwestern in the fall of 2001 and have begun a friendship and respect for David Crutchley. He is very gifted and respected for both his scholarship and for being an advocate for thefaculty and students. So why did the trustees at Southwestern force him to step down as dean of the School of Theology (Dec. 10)? It appears that this so-called "conservative resurgence" has taken adifferent course in the Southern Baptist Convention. All of the SBC seminaries and agencies now have conservative leanings, so why are the fundamentalists advocating more reform?___David Crutchley is a theological conservative and the very essence of the type of professor the "conservative resurgence" desires, so why was he asked to step down? I have heard it said that the fundamentalist movement in the SBC is no longer about a "conservative resurgence" but is now about a small faction seeking power and gain for themselves instead of gain for God's kingdom. I hope this is not what the trustees at Southwestern are doing, but it certainly appears that way.___ Jeff Stehle___ Fort Worth

25. Legalistic rules Jan. 7, 2002 ___Why are you angels crying?___Remember Acts 15:28, man said it seemed good to the Holy Spirit when legalistic rules were given to Gentiles which eventually led the majority to become Catholic?___Yes.___The Holy Spirit wasn’t pleased then, and he’s not pleased now.___What happened?___The minority that rejected anything but God’s gift for salvation 2,000 years have been fooled by their fundamentalist leaders to follow legalistic rules.___How did they do that?___They won the majority by naming themselves "conservative" and their opposition "moderate."___What’s their rules?___ Board Report 4-9-97 Jerry Rankin, president of the International Mission Board: "...guidance and anointing of God will require a significant shift in attitudes...change will come when...a confidence and willingness to follow the wisdom and guidance of God- appointed leadership whether we necessarily understand or agree."___Doesn’t that abolish priesthood of the believer?___ Yes.___ Has this taken place?___ The majority’s 2000 Baptist Faith & Message priesthood must conform to the group.___ Who is the group?___ Some say the local church, but churches have been removed because they ordained women to preach the gospel, which opposes their legalistic BF&M.___Oh, no!...persecuted by Christians for obeying the Holy Spirit? The Christian majority accused Paul of preaching against their legalism in Acts 21:21, and had him take vows (sign BF&M) to show he was inline with their thinking.___Their thinking was a stumbling block then and is today. It’s sad the majority has all the fools on one side again!___Rex Ray___Bonham

26. No creed Jan. 7, 2001___I do not wish to be cynical, but when did Southern Baptists adopt a creed?___When was one required to sign a creed before teaching in our seminaries or be fired if they did not?___What went with the great old doctrines of the priesthood of the believer, the autonomy of the local church and congregational rule? Where are these grand old beliefs, which Baptist have held and taughtso faithfully through the years?___I have believed and preached these things for many years after having studied under the teaching of the most scholarly and dedicated Christian professors who were not compelled to sign a creed.___ Tommie B. Allen___ Lubbock

27. Myriad of viewpoints needed Jan 7, 2002___As a graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Iwant to add a comment or two about the recent happenings there.
___Since the hostile takeover in '94 and the subsequent faculty removals (and we all know that the new Baptist Faith & Message is only about faculty removals, as Miles Seaborn was so kind to explain),Southwestern is now reaping what it has sown.___Instead of a thriving institution of higher learning, Southwestern has become a mediocre bastion of indoctrination and narrow thought.___Throughout the ages, true education has always been an exposure to the myriad of viewpoints on any particular issue, with the aim of understanding and growth. False education has been a fearful retreatinto hateful dogmatism against the dangers of heterodoxy, with an attempt to vilify and discredit. Instead of productive and forward thought, false education is only reactionary and backward-looking.___It appears that Southwestern has chosen to side with the latter, and look where it has taken them. Thank God for institutions like Truett,where a Baptist can go for a real education. If I had to do it all over again, I would have never, ever gone to Southwestern.___James M. Moore___Houston

28. Agonizing choice Feb. 11, 2002___International Mission Board President Jerry Rankin has precipitated an agonizing choice for many missionaries: Give up their historic Baptist convictions that "we have no creed but the Bible" or give uptheir calling (Feb. 4).___Veteran missionaries who have been on the field for years "signed on" with the IMB under different requirements. They voluntarily expressed their theological beliefs but were not forced to sign a man-made creed. Their beliefs have not changed, the rules have!___A confession becomes a creed when others determine the beliefs one is forced to sign.___It has never been clearer that the fundamentalist leaders have changed the very nature of the Southern Baptist Convention. Our charter states that the "purpose of the Southern Baptist Convention is to elicit, combine, and direct the energies of Southern Baptists for the propagation of the gospel at home and abroad." Their highest priority is not missions. It is doctrinal conformity.___This is a determinative time for all authentic Baptists, including Texas Baptists. Those of us serving on the BGCT Missions Review and Initiative Committee (the follow-up of last years' mission studycommittee) need the prayers of faithful Texas Baptists to determine how we can support missionaries who represent our convictions without maintaining agencies that have departed from them.___We must not lose the very heart of the gospel and the distinctive missions commitment of our heritage. We must find a way to be true to both. The IMB no longer provides that option.___ R. Keith Parks___ Richardson

29. Hue and cry Feb. 11, 2002___The world is a dangerous place and getting more dangerous for Christians. With all the responsibilities and challenges facing the missionaries, it is unconscionable that the IMB would add one more.___I am referring to their new move in regard to the Baptist Faith &Message.___Is there a hue and cry of protest to be expected from the laity? How much of this should we have to tolerate?___ Betty Westbrook___ Plano

30. Crass approach Feb. 11, 2002___As retired SBC missionaries, my wife and I are appalled at the crass nature and approach of fundamentalism that's overtaken our beloved denomination.___Toward the end of our missionary service in Europe, we had begunto feel the "squeeze" of the new regime, which sounded and felt most uncomfortable.___Now Jerry Rankin has demanded all missionaries sign the latest version of the Baptist Faith & Message. That's the straw that broke the camel's back.___We grieve for the parents of this young couple spoken of in the editorial and many more like them. We also grieve for older missionaries like ourselves who "feared" retaliation for "disobedienceto the dictators" in various and sundry means to control our every move and thought.___I hope more will speak out on this unwelcome attack on personal integrity! This serious and unnecessary controversy only furthers the agony of seeing our convention go down the drain in effectiveness and witness.___ Ray W. Benfield___ Winston-Salem, N.C.

31. No creed Feb. 11, 2002___The situation faced by IMB missionaries reminds me of the plight of 16th and 17th century Baptists.___As Reformation sentiment spread to England, Baptists were among the earliest groups. They were first required to deny their new-found faith and pledge allegiance to the Catholic Church, then the Church of England, back to the Catholic Church, and back again to the Church of England. When Oliver Cromwell abolished the monarchy, allegiance needed to be pledged to the Puritans and finally back to the Church of England.___The institutional church saw the Baptist brand of Christianity as heresy and felt it had to be eliminated. A few of our ancestors signed, but most were ex-communicated and fled (many to America), banished, hid, imprisoned or executed. These stubborn Baptists were labeled as the non-conformists.___By the close of the 17th century, persecution of Baptists passed, but as a result of this experience, a concept of "no creed but the Bible" became ingrained in Baptist tradition and theology.___Now, after nearly 500 years of tradition, the SBC has departed from this noble idea. But the majority of fiercely independent Texas Baptists still cry, "no creed but the Bible." We are being accused by the SBC as being heretics and non-conformists.___I'll take that as a compliment.___ Ray Atkinson___ Dallas

32. Obvious plan Feb. 18, 2002___After reading about the Missouri convention split and the SouthernBaptist Convention's refusal to accept any money passed through thenew moderate convention (Feb. 4), the SBC plan for the BaptistGeneral Convention of Texas becomes obvious.___Siphon off enough money through the Southern Baptists ofTexas Convention directed to the SBC so that the BGCT becomes a"victim" of the financial needs of its institutions and has lessbudget money to send for missions. Then, simply refuse to acceptany mission money the BGCT was giving.___It will be easy for the "directing" churches to send the check tothe SBC or to the SBTC--which gives a large fraction to missions,since it has no institutions, other than the SBC, to support.___Those of us who feel strongly that we have a personalcommitment to "our" foreign missionaries will then put morepressure on our churches to cut the BGCT out completely. If youwant to support foreign missions, you will have to go with the SBC.___The only hope is for a large fraction of the recipients of theInternational Mission Board's Baptist Faith & Message form to refuseto sign and refuse to explain why--other than as a matter oflongstanding Baptist principle regarding creeds.___Missionaries should not be used to hammer the rest of us intosubmission, but they are.___ Bennett Willis___ Lake Jackson

33. Different priorities Feb 18, 2002___I read about the IMB decision to require our wonderful missionariesto affirm the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message.___Later, I watched NBC's "Today Show" broadcast its pre-Olympicsprogram from Salt Lake City. I was stunned when I heard Katie Couricannounce, "Next, we'll visit with Donnie and Marie Osmond, who willhelp us dispel some of the misconceptions about the Mormon Church."___How ironic. While SBC leaders are scrutinizing the beliefs of ourmissionaries and making them sign a man-made document, theMormons are using a national TV platform to "dispel misconceptionsabout the Mormon Church."___What's wrong with this picture? Our missionaries are born- againChristians who have given their hearts and lives to their Lord. What inthe world does signing the Baptist Faith & Message have to do with aChristian, called by God, going to the mission field?___So, while the Osmonds are clearing up "misconceptions," SBCleaders are squeezing our own missionaries into signing what amountsto an SBC loyalty oath. As a Christian, my loyalty oath is with myLord and Savior, Jesus Christ, not to a piece of paper written by men. My loyalty oath is a promise, signed with the blood that Jesus shed forme. If that promise is good enough for the Lord, what can a mere manask of me?___While false religions and cults "convert" millions, the SBC requiresour missionaries to sign a denominational loyalty oath. What are ourpriorities?___ Craig Morin___ Tomball

34. Deeply saddened Feb. 18, 2002___As an emeritus missionary, I am deeply saddened by Jerry Rankin'srecent letter to all current missionaries asking them to sign the 2000Baptist Faith & Message. It:___ Shows disrespect for those who screened the missionaries beforeappointment.___ Shows lack of trust in the missionaries who are currently servingunder the IMB. If our IMB staff and missionaries can't be trusted, thenwho can?___ It encourages finger-pointing, criticism, inquisitions and witchhunts.___ It is another step toward control. Cooperation becomes difficultwithout inquisition.___ It seems more concerned with conformity to a rigid standard thanwith accountability.___ It seems unfair to disrupt the lives of faithful servants of the Lordalready under appointment with the implied threat of loss of job unlessthey conform.___To be consistent, if we cooperate financially with other GreatCommission Christians, they ought to sign the BF&M too.___ David King___ Marshall

35. Hypocrites Feb. 18, 2002___I just finished reading the entire letter that Morris Chapman sent toJim Hill concerning the proposed relationship between the SBC and anew state convention in Missouri (Feb. 4).___Hypocrites! If the new convention in Missouri is not "in friendlycooperation" with the SBC because it would allow money to passthrough its offices to support the work of the Cooperative BaptistFellowship, then neither is the Baptist General Convention of Texas northe Baptist General Association of Virginia "in friendly cooperation"with the SBC. Where is Chapman's recommendation that the SBC cutties with these two conventions, including a refusal to take theirmoney?___The Georgia Baptist Convention receives CP funds from churchesacross our state who also support the CBF. Some of those funds aresent to the SBC Executive Committee, which helps pay Chapman'ssalary! Where is Chapman's recommendation to the GBC that they nolonger accept CP funds from churches that also support the CBF?___In his letter, Chapman stated he had given "time, thought andprayer" to make the appropriate response to the new Missouriconvention's request to send CP money to the SBC. Now, let's see if hetakes the same careful, deliberate consideration in dealing with theBGCT, the BGAV, and all the churches in the SBC that also choose tosend funds to the CBF.___My bet is he'll leave them alone. There is too much money at staketo let integrity stand in the way!___Mark Johnson___Macon, Ga.

36. Don't compromise integrity Feb. 18, 2002___What a choice our missionaries have to make (Feb. 4). If theychoose to be true to their traditional Baptist beliefs about creeds,priesthood of believers and autonomy of churches, they may risk nolonger serving. If they sign the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message tocontinue as International Mission Board missionaries but do not havesincerity of heart, will they be able to serve with clear consciences, inunity?___I pray our missionaries will have the courage to not compromisetheir integrity. I pray they will trust the Lord and tell the truth. If onehonestly upholds the 2000 BF&M and the required signing of it, I prayshe will sign it. If one does not honestly uphold all of the 2000 BF&Mand the required signing, I pray he will not sign it.___I appreciate Jerry Rankin's past efforts to prioritize missions and notput our missionaries in this dilemma. I have been blessed withpeacemaker pastors, D.L. Lowrie and Jim Henry, who tried to bedenominational mediators. Some churches are looking for pastors whoare middle-of-the-road, not politically aligned, focused on the GreatCommission. That sounds so good, but our missionaries no longer havethat option. I thankfully graduated from Southwestern Seminary beforeour professors lost that option.___It is so hard for me to see what has been gained by all this. Whathas been lost is heartbreaking to this Baptist from a lost background.___Lynn McMasters___Lubbock

37. Coercive [using force] Program? Feb. 18, 2002___Whereas the Southern Baptist Convention through every means ofpower, politics and persuasion has succeeded in splitting the BaptistGeneral Convention of Texas, redirecting hundreds of thousands ofdollars to itself while greatly diminishing the effectiveness of Christianwork in Texas;___And whereas this campaign continues with a letter from MorrisChapman warning Texas churches of the dire consequences that minorBGCT budget changes will have on SBC work throughout the world,even though SBC income is actually up not down;___And whereas the SBC now openly encourages and supportsbreakaway state conventions that agree with its policies while refusingeven to recognize or accept funds from new Baptist entities thatdisagree with it in any way;___And whereas International Mission Board missionaries who,regardless of their effectiveness or fidelity to the Bible, will now beforced to sign a man-made document they may disagree with or facedismissal;___Now, therefore, be it sadly resolved that the Cooperative Programas we have known it is dead. Say hello to the Coercive Program.___Gary Morgan___ Waxahachie

38. Evil content Feb. 25, 2002___It is because the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message has not been widelycondemned for its evil content that more and more Southern Baptistsare being forced to affirm that content.___At first, only the regular Southern Baptist Convention employeeshad to affirm it. Today, even long-standing career missionaries mustaffirm it. Soon, every affiliated SBC church and association will haveto affirm it. And finally, every member of every affiliated SBC churchwill be required to affirm it.___Well, I for one will never affirm that the 2000 BF&M is suitable asan "instrument of doctrinal accountability." Only to God the Father areChristians accountable for their doctrine (Acts 5:29). Nor will I everaffirm that the Bible is "God's revelation of himself to man." OnlyJesus Christ, the Son of God, holds that position (John 14:9). Nor willI ever affirm that the 2000 BF&M contains the "essentials" of my faith. Only the Bible contains those essentials (2 Timothy 3:16), and only theHoly Spirit has the power to identify them (John 14:26).___These three quotations nullify everything else that might be goodabout the 2000 BF&M, because it supplants the Holy Bible and usurpsthe very honor, power and authority of God Almighty himself.___Affirmation of the 2000 BF&M is blasphemy and should be widelyproclaimed to be such.___ Donnell Hewett___ Kingsville

39. Baptist wedge Feb. 25, 2002___Thanks to Charles Wade for "The peril of a man-made document."Feb. 11 It is well-written, gracious and right on target.___Our leaders in the SBC just don't get it. By design, intent orignorance, they have driven a wedge among, between or into the heartsof Southern Baptists, however you wish to state it.___God help us, and God be with us. The SBC leadership's actions areabout power and control. It's that simple.___ Jim Armstrong___ Wichita Falls

40. Agree or ... Feb. 25, 2002___Regarding "Missionaries will agonize ..." and "Baptists deservedecisions based on fact, not fallacy" (Feb. 4):___Whether from a grassroots conservative resurgence or from anorchestrated plot to take over the SBC and its agencies, those in powercontinue to say by their words and deeds: "Agree with our doctrinalinterpretations or get out! But continue to send money. How dareTexas Baptists redirect funds to their own ministries?"___ J. Lillian Brown___ Austin

41. Politics over ministry Feb. 25, 2002___I recently applied for service through the SBC North AmericanMission Board. I was saddened to learn I had to sign the 2000 BaptistFaith & Message.___I am frustrated that the SBC has put politics and agendas overministry. I am not allowed to serve and spread Christ because Idisagree with parts of the Baptist Faith & Message. Now, InternationalMission Board missionaries have to sign. The SBC has gotten out ofcontrol. SBC pastors might as well start signing, too. So shouldmembers of their churches. Start making the seminary students sign aswell. This might sound overboard, but it is the same as what theyasked me to do.___This issue is a matter of principle. The slogan on their websitegives the appearance they are serving Christ. It reads: "Reaching theworld for Christ." This reminds me of the church at Ephesus, whereGod tells them they have the appearance of doing good, but he holdsone thing against them, they have forsaken their first love (Revelation2:2-4).___God goes on to command them to repent, or he will take away theirlampstand (v. 5). I pray this will happen to the SBC (or any conventionthat has forsaken Christ as their love); that its lampstand will fall so thatthe convention may be rebuilt upon Jesus.___Repentance must come, or we are in danger of losing (if we haven'talready) the best and most productive mission programs we have everhad.___ Scott Venable___ Brownwood

42. Satan laughs March 4, 2002___As a Sunday School teacher of the 12th grade department in mychurch, I try to keep the youth abreast of what is going on in the"world" of Baptists. Lately I have been somewhat embarrassed toexpose them to yet another black eye in our denomination.___They do not understand the squabbling, and they question whereour "leaders" childlike faith has gone. They also ask if our "leaders"expect our missionaries to lead people to the gospel of Christ or leadpeople to the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message. They half-jokingly saythat perhaps we should require new Christians to sign something aswell.___It frightens me that if we continue this disunion and continue toplay out our discord in the national media, this next generation will turntheir backs on the Baptist faith altogether.___Satan laughs as we argue. I pray that we can build up our faith anddenomination to something our children can be proud of.___ Michael Westbrooks___ Richardson

43. Baptists & freedom March 4, 2002___I have been a Sunday School teacher for over 30 years. If I weretold to sign anything, I would feel betrayed and rejected by the church Ihad spent my life serving.___I am a "Baptist" because I have the freedom Jesus gave us to be allwe can be, a part of the priesthood of the believer and a person whomGod loves.___If the criterion is that each of us must conform to what someoneelse says, rather than what Jesus Christ said or rather than what theLord says to us, then maybe we need to seek another way or seekanother word from the Lord. Maybe we need to find another "label" torepresent us.___We are free. We are God's children. We are his by adoption, "maleor female, slave or free." Therefore, who has the right to demand thatwe sign a statement affirming what "they" say is the way?___I am a Baptist and have been all my life (over 55 years) becauseBaptists (in the past) have allowed us to be free and to believe each ofus can go to God individually to speak to him regarding our needs. Iam not a Baptist because I signed a creed or someone told me how tobelieve.___God made me an individual, male or female, free to choose and toworship him. I cannot believe otherwise. If I have to, I will not be a"Baptist." I will be a Christian.___ Pete Sadler___ Henderson

44. Missouri convention has gall March 11, 2002___The Missouri Baptist Convention leadership has incredible gall.___For years, they, along with the misled, misinformed anddisingenuous Project 1000 group, have told us that if we don't like thecurrent creedalist Missouri Baptist Convention, then leave. Now, wemake plans to leave, and they call us troublemakers and say that weneed to repent and be "lovingly" restored (Feb. 25).___To suggest they will "lovingly" restore us is a crock. Will theyrestore us like they did Russell Dilday, Jim Hill and other greatChristians who chose to respectfully differ with their non-historic Southern Baptist creedalism? I am afraid so.___Therefore, we must leave if we are to minister in good faith.___We must leave if we are to follow the historic tenets of our faith,church autonomy, priesthood of the believer, the Scripture as the recordof God's revelation and others.___It is interesting that the fundamentalists, self-proclaimed "people ofthe Bible" believe 1 Timothy does not apply to them. They are going touse the Lord's money to investigate and possibly sue five majorMissouri Baptist ministries.___We are not the ones who need repentance and restorationconcerning these matters.___John K. Boudinot___Ashland, Mo.

45. Oh, the arrogance March 11, 2002___Oh, the arrogance of those who declare, "Any missionary that has aproblem with their salary supplier, needs to get out of the SBC and callsomeone else for financial assistance." Those are the words of anegotistical, harsh employer. The psalmist declared that it is the Lordwho supplies every need.___Oh, the arrogance of those who are going to "counsel" missionarieswho see the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message as a creed that has a lowChristology and anti-missionary predestination spirit! Jesus said thatinstruction and correction is the job of the Holy Spirit. Enron says it isthe job of the boss.___Oh, the arrogance of church members who make it their business tocampaign to get a pastor fired over a personal disagreement. Worse isthe arrogance of Morris Chapman in "counseling" my church on howour tithes and offerings should be used. That smells like papalismrather than respect for church autonomy!___Oh, the arrogance of those who appeal for a "reconciliationcandidate at the next BGCT convention" and ignore the holocaustgoing on in Southern Baptist life.___Most "common Texas Baptists" realize that a gunslinger will runwild until someone stands up in the street against him. The BGCT mayget wounded, but Texans will eventually get angry enough to run thegunslingers out of town.___ Orlynn Evans___ Nacogdoches

46. Different focus March 11, 2002___"'Teacher,' said John, 'we saw a man driving out demons in yourname, and we told him to stop, because he is not one of us.' 'Do notstop him,' Jesus said. 'No one who does a miracle in my name can in thenext moment say anything bad about me.'"___It appears that Jesus' test of fellowship and participation in ministryhad a different focus from what we see today. Let us look for the fruitsof the spirit in men and women, their hard labor, theireffectiveness--not a willingness to sign a doctrinal statement (asrequired by the SBC International Mission Board).___Traditionally, Baptists cannot agree on anything. We make jokesabout it. How can we ever expect to call the greatest and the best intoChristian ministry if we force them to swallow their conscience to getin the door? I respectfully dissent to this course of action.___ Tom Harkins___ Fort Worth

47. Positive stand March 11, 2002___As a newly retired public school superintendent who also holds theLicensed Professional Counselor certificate by the state of Texas, I amin absolute shock by the new ruling of the SBC North AmericanMission Board to deny the required denominational endorsement for(ordained) women in the chaplaincy.___How does this obvious gender discrimination differ from some ofthe more radical Islamic groups such as the Taliban? Have any of thesepeople read Galatians 3:28?___At this time in my life, I question how much longer I can callmyself a Southern Baptist or continue giving to an organization thatpromotes such backward, unbiblical and degrading positions such asthe action taken against women serving in these positions.___Thanks to the BGCT for taking a positive stand in striving toprovide a method for these God-called women to continue with theLord's work!___ Dottie B. Chiles___ Corpus Christi

48. Holy Spirit's job March 11, 2002___I am 72 years old this month. I've been a Southern Baptist all myadult life. I believe the Bible is God's word to man.___Our Lord told us he would send his Holy Spirit to guide andcomfort us. Who is any man or organization to think they are to do theHoly Spirit's job?___No one should ask any Baptist to sign or pledge to them or theirorganization that you would abide by "their" doctrine!___ E.M. DeFriend___ Louise

49. One label March 11, 2002___After worrying about labels such as "conservative," "fundamental,""moderate" or whatever else, the March 4 editorial had the answer: I ama Baptist.___That says it all.___Now, I would just like to again be properly proud of the namebecause of what is has stood for--soul competency and religious liberty,the two pillars of Baptist heritage bought with the blood of martyrshaving an undying faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior and the perfectpicture of God.___ Thomas O. Bush___ Dallas


50. Unbelievable step March 18, 2002___Why has the International Mission Board put its missionaries on thehorns of an unnecessary dilemma? What has happened to the mutualtrust between the board, its constituency and its personnel?___Missionaries should not have to compromise sacred matters ofconscience in order to maintain temporal fulfillment of divine calling!___This is just another unbelievable step toward total creedalism in oursupposedly free-church Baptist denomination.___ Justice Anderson ___ Professor of Missions Emeritus___Southwestern Seminary___ Fort Worth

51. Two suggestions March 18, 2002___The Baptist Faith & Message mess seems to get more confusingevery week. But I wonder about our missionaries who are workingwith the "heathen" all over the world.___What difference does it make if they do or do not sign a piece ofpaper? Will it make them a better missionary? Will they feel guilty ifthey don't sign and have to come home? Who would take their place?___I suggest that the group donating the millions put that money intheir pocket and pack their bags and go take the place of themissionaries. With a million dollars, they could do a lot of good andwouldn't have to bow down to anyone except God. That's what themissionaries do every day, and without a million dollars!___Why am I writing this letter? Because I have a son on the missionfield who walks an hour to get to some of the little churches he workswith. When he was born, my husband and I dedicated him to the Lordto use as he needed. We have supported him in all he does. Godcalled him to the mission field, and God--not a bunch of addle-brainedso-called Baptist leaders--will bring him back.___I suggest we get rid of the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message and leavethe missionaries alone and let them do what God has called them to do. Pray for them every day, and send them letters of support.___ Reta Grayson___ Newton

52. Real crisis March 18, 2002___The International Mission Board's Larry Cox asserts the BGCT hassought to "manufacture a crisis where none exists" regarding efforts toraise funds for missionaries unable to sign the 2000 Baptist Faith &Message. Having been forced to resign from teaching at SouthwesternBaptist Theological Seminary since I was unable to sign the newBF&M, I know something about crisis.___Those unable, for whatever reason, to affirm the 2000 statementface not a manufactured crisis but a genuine one.___They face the crisis of knowing a sense of betrayal from those whocovenanted with them for service on one basis and have now renegedon that covenant. They face the crisis of grief at the prospect of leavinga ministry to which they have felt called but will now either have toleave or betray their own identity and convictions. They face the crisisof uncertainty at what will be next for themselves and their families. They face the crisis of injustice at being held guilty until proveninnocent. They face the crisis of shame at being placed in unfair andsimplistic categories others have defined for the purpose of exclusion.___Cox's accusation that the BGCT has manufactured a crisis wherenone exists is either an attempt to control perceptions or profoundinsensitivity to the situation that the reversal of policy by the IMB hasitself created. Some IMB personnel face a crisis, but it is onemanufactured by the IMB itself.___ Jeph Holloway___ Marshall

53. Why they left March 18, 2002___When the Baptist General Convention of Texas gave SouthwesternSeminary to the Southern Baptist Convention, the seminary's newcharter addressed "control" of the seminary by the SBC, stating theseminary would be subject to routine changes in the "rules andregulations" of the SBC "in all matters not included in the Articles ofFaith or permanent laws."___It stipulated: "Said permanent laws shall not be altered ... except bythe following procedure ... a resolution providing for such alteration ...shall be presented to said convention, and shall not be acted on until thenext session of said body."___That charter was legally effective until Aug. 31, 1999, when anamended charter deleting the requirement was filed in the secretary ofstate's office.___The revised 1998 Baptist Faith & Message was presented andadopted in the single '98 session of the SBC. The seminary trustees,who act as agents of the SBC, secured faculty signatures to it. Thepresident explained: "We are under the ... control of the SBC" (Oct. 14,1998).___The proposed amended charter was presented and approved in thesingle '99 session of the convention.___The revised 2000 Baptist Faith & Message was presented andadopted in the single 2000 session of the SBC. The seminary requiredfaculty signatures to it.___The pursuit of conformity on matters never before required amongSouthern Baptists cost us some faculty members.___We will now lose some missionaries, and the people to whom theyminister will wonder why they had to leave.___ Harold Freeman___ Fort Worth

54. How long? March 25, 2002 ___My Catholic friends tell me we Baptists are becoming moreCatholic. We see the parallel between their hierarchical structure andours.___The Southern Baptist Convention president is the pope; agencyheads are cardinals; the Executive Committee is the holy see. TheBaptist Faith & Message is our creed. This would be laughable if itweren't so true.___I cry, "How long, oh Lord, how long?" How much longer can wesay we believe the Bible when our actions betray us? How long beforewe destroy ourselves and there is no SBC, Baptist General Conventionof Texas, Southern Baptists of Texas or Southwestern Seminary?___"Lord, how much longer?"___ B.R. Tucker___ Fort Worth

55. Teach them to be Baptists? March 25, 2002___How sad that we have a committee of Christians(?) who waste timetrying to write a creed for our missionaries, to be very certain that theyare teaching all new Christians to be Baptists.___Perhaps they should go back and read the Great Commission(Matthew 28:18-20). I have several Bible translations, and none ofthem say, "Teach them to be Baptists."___If they want to know what is really needed on the mission field andthe problems the missionaries face, I would suggest that they go live onthe mission field for a few years. The impossible situations ourmissionaries and families live in are made bearable only because theylove the Lord and the lost.___I have done short-time mission work for 11 years, and I know whatI am talking about. I am very sad about the foolishness of SouthernBaptists, and I am sure God is very sad too.___Let's forget about signing "papers" and get about the business ofwitnessing to the lost.___Evelyn Barnett___Snyder

56. Baptist strength is to agree to disagree March 25, 2002___The rift going on about affirming the Baptist Faith & Message, asrequired now for Southern Baptist Convention missionaries, will causemany more problems than it will solve.___After being a Baptist for years, I do not believe anyone should berequired to 100 percent affirm the BF&M to be a missionary. (Arechurch members next?) This violates the basic idea of the priesthood ofthe believer.___ Certainly, a person must believe in "Christ crucified" to be aBaptist, but affirming such change as adopted in the last BF&Mmodification, which are peripheral, should not be required, as they haveno affect on the message of salvation.___The strength of the Baptist denomination is the opportunity to agreeto disagree on many matters.___No missionary should be required to accept the BF&M in itsentirety. That is doctoral and not scriptural. This requirement shouldbe changed before it does more damage than good, resignation of goodmissionaries and further split in the Baptist denomination.___Bill Freeman___Kingwood

57. If it's not broken, don't fix it March 25, 2002___Were I a Baptist missionary, I would not sign the new Baptist Faith& Message statement.___What I do envision for the Southern Baptist Convention is a slowmove to a more and more powerful theocracy. I know a few places inthe world today where people would like to remove the theocracies theyhave.___There is nothing wrong philosophically with the older BF&Mstatement, and I believe that if something is not broken, don't fix it.___Grover Clifft___Lamesa

58. Reminds me of the Pharisees March 25, 2002___ I am deeply troubled that there are politicians in the Baptistconvention who would set themselves up as priests, who do notrecognize the competency of the soul.___ This whole purging reminds me of the Pharisees. I feel sure thatmust also have been what happened in the Catholic Church.___Our heritage as Baptists has not been for a few men to tell us whatto think or believe. Our churches have flourished because we had beentrue to the priesthood of the believer, allowing our members toapproach the written word through the Holy Spirit. Even moreimportantly, an encounter with the Living Word, Jesus Christ, has beenpre-eminent.___It saddens me that a few controlling politicians can tear apart whatBaptists through the centuries have stood for.___Monette Gossett___Weddington, N.C.

59. Cut connection with SBC March 25, 2002___ Why not get Texas to have its own foreign missionary-sendingagency? The organization is already in place for missionaries servingin Texas. Either use the same or have another organization forinternational missionaries.___Take the money, or most of it, that now goes to the InternationalMission Board and fund our own agency for support and sendingpurposes.___Since it seems that the SBC and current IMB are bound anddetermined to force legalism on all personnel, the time is ripe to cut offall connections with SBC.___Why allow ourselves to keep on living in a state of uncertainty andfrustration over an organization that has long since departed fromformer principles and that shows no indication of willingness to changeor relent?___E.V. May Jr.___Livingston

60. Jesus did not submit to creeds March 25, 2002___Calvary tore the veil of the temple, creating Baptist belief ofindividual priesthood. This group followed the Holy Spirit withsupport from leaders.___After 1900 years, a few decided leaders should rule. "It takes onlyone wrong person to infect all the others." (Galatians 5:9) W.A.Criswell said, "The pastor is the ruler of the church."___ They called opposition "moderates who doubted the Bible." Incorrect slur campaigns help elect them in the Southern BaptistConvention.___They started ruling by firing opposition; changing organizationnames; proclaiming a Disney boycott; changing the structure of theInternational Mission Board; asking missionaries to follow God-appointed leaders regardless of agreement or understanding; requiringthe priesthood to submit to the group (example: a supervisor toldmissionaries, "I'll pray tonight, and tomorrow I'll tell you what God'swill is for your life" (Oct. 22, 2001), and requiring missionaries to signthe Baptist Faith & Message.___ Jesus did not submit to creeds. Would he be fired? With eachmissionary removed, how many souls are doomed to hell? Will firedmissionaries sue the IMB to retain God's calling?___Radical fundamentalist invaded Baptists under the name"conservative." While radicals scream, in ignorance or with deception,that moderates doubt the Bible, and rulers agonize the Holy Spirit byraping priesthood, moderates have not changed to their way of thinking.___Most conservatives would be on the same page with moderates ifthey stopped listening to radicals and rulers.___God-appointed does not mean appointed-God. All men should bewatchful and protest their spiritual leaders becoming spiritual bosses.___Rex Ray___Bonham

61. Heritage turned on its head March 25, 2002___The bottom line of Baptist controversy may well be the bottom line. Money and the power of money seem to be all that really matters. Inerrancy and liberalism were just a smokescreen to grab the SouthernBaptist Convention purse strings.___The tragedy is that ordinary Baptists, the main supporters ofcooperative missions, are being manipulated by SBC power- mongerswho are from mega-churches that have never been generous with theCooperative Program.___Most SBC mega-churches are Baptist in name only. They areindependent religious corporations controlled by CEO pastors andsmall executive committees, the same model playing out in the SBC.___The hallmarks of a true Baptist body are openness and democracy,where the individual is respected and involved in decision-making aswell as financial support. If the pastor's salary is not a matter of publicrecord, and individual challenge, it likely is not a Baptist church.___The Baptist General Convention of Texas is a far more opendemocracy than the SBC. Does anyone know what any of the heads ofSBC agencies make? At least BGCT salaries are matters of publicrecord, and individual church decisions determine the BGCT bottomline.___The SBC angles for more money to keep the few in power, whothen tell ordinary Baptists what to believe and how much to give.___Baptist heritage has truly been turned on its head.___Joe Webb___Marble Falls

62. Baptists have traded love for a desire to be right 3-25-02___ A great lesson can be learned by Texas and Southern Baptists fromJesus' words in Matthew 22:37-40. It would be beneficial of all thoseinvolved in our political and theological struggle would heed thesewords carefully and not be mere "hearers of the word."___"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, andwith all your mind." Many involved in this conflict are so sold to theirinterpretation of the Bible that they fail to seek to honor God throughthe fellowship of his people. Honoring what we believe about the Bibleseems more important than honoring and loving God.___ "Love your neighbor as yourself." We have sought total agreementin all matters and doctrine and place targets on the backs of peoplegroups (Jews, homosexuals, etc.) and corporations, not out of love, butwith a judgmental finger pointing at them and their lives and lettingthem know they will never be welcome in our presence.___ "All the law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Our debates and actions are not filled with love. We wonder whybaptisms and conversions are down in our churches. It's because wehave, not love but a desire to be "right." When unbelievers can onceagain see a people that love God earnestly, love one another dearly, andlove them sincerely, then our evangelistic efforts will return good fruit. Then we will see the Spirit move through our denomination once again.___ J.D. Allen___Waco

63. Soul competency at stake March 25, 2002___In 1997, I wrote a master's thesis for partial fulfillment of the MAdegree at Southwestern Seminary titled, "The Competency of the Soulas the Fundamental Baptist Distinctive." There is nothinggroundbreaking in the document. I simply attempted to restate the factof the "fundamental" nature of soul competency in Baptist Christianityin light of developments in Baptist life over the past 23 years.___At issue in this battle is the competency of the soul. It is rooted inthe reality that all human beings are created in God's image.___Soul competency involves the human capacity to respond freely toGod within the context of a love relationship. Soul competency,therefore, universally applies to all human beings.___In short, the individual conscience is sovereign; God will notdelegate matters of religion to any human institution or authority. Thecompetency of the soul is then inextricably related to the priesthood ofthe believer, democratic church polity and the separation of church andstate. It also carries very significant implications for the nature ofBaptist cooperation, pastoral leadership and religious authority. Logically, they all rise and fall together like a house of cards.___This battle is "fundamentally" about the competency of the soul, theone and only fundamental Baptist distinctive. ___Everything is at stakehere.___Don Fawcett___Santo

64. Led astray April 1, 2002___SBC leadership is using the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message as an"instrument of doctrinal accountability."___Consider what the inspired word of God (2 Timothy 3:16) has tosay about any addition to just saying a simple yes or no.___Jesus says in Matthew 5:33-37 not to swear at all (v. 34). He says,"But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes' and your 'No,' 'No.' For whatever is morethan these is from the evil one" (v. 37).___The 2000 BF&M is a document written by men. InternationalMission Board President Jerry Rankin, and others, say you must sign aform saying you affirm this document so people who financiallysupport you will know what you really believe.___James 5:12 says, "But above all, my brethren, do not swear, eitherby heaven or by earth or with any other oath. But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes'and your 'No,' 'No,' lest you fall into judgement."___No amount of double talk can change this affirmation statementfrom an oath.___Who will you follow? The Apostle Paul says in Colossians 2:8,"Don't let anyone lead you astray with empty philosophy andhigh-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from evilpowers of the world, and not from Christ."___Are you being led astray? Are you being led to sin? I think so.When are SBC members going to reject this "empty philosophy andhigh-sounding nonsense"? I already have.___ Larry W. Walker___ Beaumont

65. Let them serve April 1, 2002___In the decade before my husband's retirement, we lived overseasand were privileged to host in our home many dedicated missionaries. At oil company compounds in the Muslim countries of Indonesia andKuwait, we retained our Baptist beliefs but had to set asidedenominational differences in order to worship with fellow Christians. The local lay leader or visiting missionary conducted each service inthe form he chose.___Because there was a shortage of people who would speak or evenread from a book of sermons, I was asked to lead a service. Eventhough God laid a message on my heart, I felt bound by Paul's biblicalprohibition.___I asked advice of two SBC missionaries who, in effect, gave metheir blessing. They said in their small pastorless church, each person,doctor, nurse, or local layman, took turns leading worship.___One thing I steadfastly refused to do overseas was recite a creed. Iam a product of Training Union. I was taught and still believeman-made creeds are displeasing to God. Creeds are instruments ofdivision in the body of Christ, and Baptists have been persecuted andeven killed for their refusal to affirm creedal statements.___My refusal to read the Apostles' Creed seems laughable now thatthe SBC requires written adherence by missionaries to its ownman-made statement of faith.___These are God's called-out people! For the sake of our Savior, can'twe just let them serve him?___ Sue Karcher___ Rockport

66. Wooing another's wife April 8, 2002___I am a widow in my 80th year, and I'm so distressed over what hashappened in our beloved convention.___The letter written by SBC Executive Committee President MorrisChapman and sent to churches in Texas to suggest they decrease theamount given to the Baptist General Convention of Texas and also topersuade them to join the rival convention reminded me of a man tryingto woo a wife away from a faithful husband and not caring at all howshe also would be deserting all her many children--ministries of theBGCT.___I'm so convinced the takeover by the fundamentalists has comeabout because the average person in the pew is either blissfully unawareor uncaring about what is really happening.___ W.I. Sparkman___ Kopperl

67. Baptist pope April 15, 2002___W.T. Connor, the late theology professor at SouthwesternSeminary, made a profound statement in his last book, "The Work ofthe Holy Spirit." In essence, he said, "I think I see a definitecentralization of power in Baptists that changed the New Testamentchurch into what is now the Roman Catholic Church."___How right he was! In a fellowship of retired pastors recently, I wasamazed that most agreed that if you left interpretation to the individualand the Holy Spirit, you would get all kinds of different opinions.___They also thought SBC missionaries should sign the new BaptistFaith & Message statement or resign as missionaries.___Question: Are those who wrote the new BF&M more qualifiedinterpreters of Scripture than anyone else in the denomination?___If that is true, we have made giant strides into papalism. If you donot want to wind up with a Baptist pope, better leave the train at thenext station!___ M.G. Upton___ Sacramento, Calif.

68. Fish & birds April 15, 2002___One difference between fish and birds is fish worry if there arehooks in the worms.___People, like hooked fish, may be controlled. Most Baptists believein being controlled only by the Holy Spirit interpreting the Bible. It'scalled "priesthood of the believer" and is in the 1963 Baptist Faith &Message as, "The criterion by which the Bible is to be interpreted isJesus Christ."___That statement was removed in the 2000 BF&M, and leaders of theSBC are Christian Judaizers using a committee for interpretingScriptures to be obeyed.___Jesus didn't mention committees interpreting anything. If we letmissionaries be fired, who will stand for us when it's our turn to signthe new BF&M? Legalistic rulers will continue increasing theirauthority as long as good men do nothing.___ Rex Ray___ Bonham

69. Likeness of Jesus April 15, 2002___As I was preparing a Sunday School lesson, I came across a versethat those who wrote the new Baptist Faith & Message (who haveelevated God's written word above Jesus) would do well to peruse: "Jesus said, 'But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to youfrom the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, hewill testify of me.'" (John 15:26)___That says the Holy Spirit, not God's Scripture, is to testify orwitness of Jesus. The Holy Spirit is to testify of God's Living Word,not his written word.___I love God's Scriptures and treasure every word I read and study,but Jesus is the very embodiment of God's Scripture. Christ, the LivingWord, not the written word, hung on the cross for my sins. Christ, nota book, endured the pain. How can we not elevate him, the LivingWord, above a written word?___Remember that Jesus was with God at creation. He takesprecedence over the written word. Jesus said: "I am the Way, the Truthand the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John14:6)___Thank you, BGCT, for your love of Jesus over the written word. "Speaking the truth in love," we are to be the likeness of Jesus' love forthe world and even for brothers and sisters in Christ who elevate thewritten word over the Living Word.___ Margaret McLain___ Corsicana

70. Missionary decision April 22, 2002___Please do not judge too harshly any of our missionaries who signthe affirmation of the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message, even though it isagainst their principles.___They may be following God's leadership in staying with the peoplethey love, and who love them. They may feel they cannot desert theirwork that God has called them to do, no matter what the mission boardrequires.___So, let's pray, pray, pray.___ Betty Elliott___ Highlands

71. New clarity April 22, 2002___I want to thank Morris Chapman for clearing up a misunderstandingin his address to the Southern Baptist Convention ExecutiveCommittee. The misunderstanding has been perpetuated in Baptist lifefor 23 years at great cost to the Baptist witness, missions, missionariesand the local church. ___Chapman eloquently stated: "Whatever else in the church has takenthe focus from Jesus must be cast away. There is no room for anyother. Only he is worthy...The church is what it is because of whoJesus is. Let us have eyes only for him. ..." ___For the last 23 years, Southern Baptists have been led to believe thechurch's relevance, identity and mission were tied to acceptance ofsome obscure theory about the error-free nature of the originalmanuscripts of Scripture, manuscripts no one has been able to produce.___From what Chapman has said, it appears the SBC is back toaccepting Scripture's authority based on faith in the person of Jesus,with "no room for any other." Based on his address, it appears a certaintheory about Scripture owes Jesus an apology for 23 years of stealinghis spotlight.___Southern Baptists owe Chapman a debt of gratitude for clearing thatup. Whatever has taken the focus away from Jesus must be cast away! Amen.___ John Petty___ Uvalde

72. Bible: A Political Football? (Not printed)___Page Patterson wrote the foreword to ‘The Criswell Study Bible’ in1975. He said one crucial task was: “Harmonization of apparentdiscrepancies and explanations of passages thought by some tocontain error are afforded the reader.”___After his preaching at Prestonwood Baptist Church on March 26,2000, and standing in line, I asked him if his statement meant ‘all’discrepancies and errors or only ‘some’ of them.___He said, “All of them.”___“What about the leader’s daughter being dead in Matthew and alivein Mark and Luke?”___He changed his answer to, “We got all we could.”___Looks like conservative leaders won the political arena bycondemning their opponents by saying what is popular but don’tbelieve what they preach.___Maybe God didn’t want us to ‘see’ the Bible ‘perfect’ as doubtingThomas and worship the Bible, but to believe His Word through faithand say with Job, “Thought He slay me, yet will I trust him.” ___In Paul’s day, ‘milk Christians’ were legalists who thought theywere better than others and followed leaders that led to Catholics. ___“Woe to the land whose king is a child.” (Ec. 10:16) With all theconfusion and strife, ‘Woe to a convention whose leaders are ‘milkChristians.’___Rex Ray___Bonham

73. Inerrancy? (Not printed) ___Louisiana Baptist Convention stated, “doubters of God’s word”have conjured up less-effective words for biblical authority such as“infallible,” “true...” Louisiana proclaimed, “The Bible is inerrant,infallible, true,...” (12-3-01) ___Why do they call their brothers “doubters” and complain aboutwords they use themselves? Because conflict over inerrancy causesreligious hatred.___In 1978, 300 scholars discussed eight definitions of Bible inerrancy. Seven could be combined: “Can be trusted in what it teaches andaffirms...Does not contradict itself but does with science, geography,and history...Without error in salvation, faith, and morals, but not truein all words or statements...Speeches reported in truth but not allspeeches have perfect contents.” ___Conservatives adopted only one definition but with manypermissible qualifications. They proudly state: “The Bible does not lie,deceive or err in any assertion it makes”, but it’s only ‘behind closeddoors’ do you hear their permissible qualifications: ___“applies only to original manuscripts...possible for NT writers tomisquote OT writers...may err with scientific truths...history; parallelaccounts may not agree...may use folklore...” ___Some conservatives have yelled, “We have our inerrancy and noone is taking it from us!” Most don’t know about “qualifications” buttheir 1978 scholar leaders do___A few men had no shame of their scheme to use part of their realdefinition’ for a political take over. (Letter 72.)___God’s Word prevailed for 1900 years without man’s inerrancy. When a person says he believes in the inerrant word of God, whichdefinition is he referring to?___The devil loves confusion and there is so much confusion over thisinerrancy term, I hope it goes back to where it came from, and thedivision of His children will be removed by our trust in the Bible andlove. ___Rex Ray___Bonham

74. Thunder Causes Stampedes (Not printed)Thunder: Legalists majority made a creed necessary for Gentiles. (Acts 15:28) Stampede: “Did you receive the Holy Spirit by keeping the Jewish laws ...have you gone completely crazy?” (Galatians:3:2) Thunder: “Now what can be done?” (Acts 21:22) Paul is in danger from Christian legalists who believe their leaders.Stampede: These leaders counseled or fooled Paul into taking vows or signing BFM, and he died in jail. Their testimony could have saved him, but they didn’t attend his trial.Thunder: Atheists: There’s no God because the Bible’s not perfect.Stampede: Fundamentalists: There is God because the Bible is perfect.Thunder: Legalist majority made a creed (BFM) necessary for missionaries.Stampede: Did you receive God’s call by signing the BFM...have you gone completely crazy? ___Our missionaries go to fight the enemy, but it’s us...were firedunless they bowed to leaders. Daniel chose lions. Jesus chose the cross.___“...so-called ‘Christians’...false ones really [false conservatives]...tried to get us all tied up in their rules...but we [moderates] did notlisten to them...” (Galatians 2:4-5) ___The devil has SBC legalists where he had Christian Judaizers...pushing their man made “necessary” rules.___Will the majority ever realize that history is repeating itself? Whydidn’t these legalists create their own convention instead of sabotagingBaptist? Maybe the devil knows.___Rex Ray___Bonham

75. More Hitler than Baptist (Not printed)___Most religions, without Christ, brand women as second classcitizens. One sect of Jews believe women are not worthy to have theMessiah. They believe He will be born instantaneous to someunsuspecting man, so the stride of men's clothing extends to the kneesto catch the baby. ___That’s not as arrogant as forcing people to submit that women arenot worthy to be pastors. Jesus considered a woman worthy enough tobe the first to tell the good news. That’s proclaiming the Gospel. Shewas even chosen over His disciples. ___Will the next BFM decree women to remain silent and have theirheads shaved if they refuse to cover their heads in church? (1Corinthians 14:34 11:6)___If a man refuses to sign the BFM, but his wife does, will she befired for not submitting to her husband? “Oh, what a tangled web weweave.”___They've just scratched the surface of twisting Scripture that womenare subordinate to men. Will they remove women's vote and womenteachers in church like they denounced women to be chaplains? ___Their removing Baptist belief in priesthood of the believer anddowngrading women seems to have more priority than the GreatCommission. ___Their real reason for having missionaries sign the BFM is tohave a basis to fire those not submitting to Rankin’s request in1997: “follow their God-appointed leaders, whether we understandor agree.” (letters 2, 25, 60)___This is like little men who tried to get rid of Daniel by fooling theking into making a law (BFM) for all to obey. My heart goes out toany Daniels today.___A missionary’s pledge to God is not enough for little men. Theywant control and dominance by demanding a pledge to their BFMcreed.___Legalists told Paul, “...take some vows...then everyone willknow...that you yourself obey the Jewish laws and are in line with ourthinking...” (Acts 21:24) Sign the BFM, then everyone will know thatyou will follow us whether you understand or agree.___One difference between Paul and missionaries...Paul was facingpersecution from his brothers, and missionaries are facing persecutionfrom their brothers. ___Legilists’ own importance is shown in Rankin’s 1997 letter: “Suchan expectancy has been created regarding these recommendations that itseems the whole world is waiting with bated breathe for what I amgoing to say...we are preparing a revolutionary redesign of the way weare organized. ...put the policy manual on the shelf...” ___Adrian Rogers, chairman of the BFM committee, said they wouldstand if they had to stand alone. By joining the world’s view ofwomen, how could they stand alone? America, land of the free, exceptin the SBC. ___Missionaries have touched my life on 18 volunteer building projectsin Israel, Russia, and Japan. Some asked not to be quoted in fear theirleaders will find out. The Baptist KGB is live and well.___Others wrote: “We are all struggling with what's happening in theconvention. We have spent a lot of time going over the BFM andtrying to come to grips with the issues. We certainly need to stay closeto God now.” ___Were like words spoken by those burned at the stake? Missionariesforced to sign a creed of crafty men, is more Hitler than Baptist.___Whose influence, besides the devil’s, have drown witches, burnedChristians, fired missionaries, and all in the name of God?___Will they decree that the SBC will accept money only fromconventions that have accepted the BFM?___The ‘Zion ship’ of SBC has become a slave vessel sinking into thelikeness of Catholicism. Because ‘barnacles’ (opposition) wereremoved, water is leaking in through the new BFM. So many churcheshave left there’s not many lifeboats left. Should we abandon ship or tryto convince the majority to mutiny and fix the hole?___Rex Ray___Bonham

Rankin may remove this missionary from God’s work (the devil has tried for 24years) who has written to his regional leader why he cannot sign their BFM. Thefollowing is part of his letter that was printed in the Texas Baptist Committed.

76. A Statement of Faith April 2002___“I fully respect the authority of the IMB. My allegiance is to God’sHoly Word and that alone. To pledge to any other document outsideGod’s Holy Word violates my beliefs as a Baptist and my integritybefore God.___I am reminded of... Chariots of Fire. Eric would not run on Sunday. One of the older lords said, ‘Don’t be impertinent, young man!’ andEric replied, ‘The impertinence, Sir, lies with those who seek toinfluence a man to deny his beliefs.’___I suppose that would be my response to those who seek to‘encourage’ me to sign a pledge of allegiance to the BFM.___This document and the way it has been produced and used topersecute and pressure those who seek to follow and honor Christreminds me of the golden image Nebuchadnezzar created. I think thispagan king’s objective was essentially the same as those who arepressing this issue...dominance. He wanted control. He wanted powerover his people.___You know our history. We have had many terrible events andproblems and trials that have attempted to remove us from our place ofservice but have failed. ___I am very disappointed in the way this has been approached, notonly by the leadership in the SBC who seem to have a great mistrust ofus but also by the leadership of the IMB.___Signing this will not protect us from charges of heresy behind ourbacks. It will not disarm those who are trying the divide the SBC.___You said you might pick out statements from missionaries to readto the Board...and in such a way they would not know whichmissionary had said what. My request is, if you choose to use this...state it is from Stan R. Lee of Rwanda.”___It is immaterial to me whether I serve Christ in Rwanda or in Texasas long as I know within my heart that I am pleasing to Him.___It may be that this will turn out to be the end of my missionarycareer, but I want you to know that if I go, I go as a true Baptist and atrue servant of the SBC, but Christ’s first.”ALL FOR CHRIST,___Stan R. Lee, D.V.M.___Rwanda, Africa