Spare Change

In Summary

Posted by Bryan

A while back, I participated in some discussions taking place regarding the leadership and future of the Southern Baptist Convention. This discussion was initiated by Dr. Jimmy Draper, president of Lifeway Christian Resources, our denominational publisher. The conversations were good, and I encouraged as many people as I could to get involved.

The conversation has apparently wrapped up, for the most part, and now Dr. Draper appears to be taking those discussions and developing a plan of action. The first part of that was seen in an email sent this week wherein a summary of findings from the discussion was offered.

My request is simple. Take a look at this list of findings and let me know if it reflects your heart and mind when it comes to your participation in the work of the church, regardless of denominational stripe. I'll be adding my own thoughts soon. I want to know yours. Please share in the comments.

Summary of Issues:
Missions and Evangelism

We want to reach the younger generation with the gospel.


We want our convention to genuinely care for those outside the church.


We want our convention to engage the post-modern culture, and be in touch with the real world.


We want to be evangelistic.


We want transformational discipleship.
Creative and Innovative Approaches

We want solutions that are innovative and effective.


We want our convention to adapt and make necessary changes as needed.


We want helpful materials for transitioning plateaued and declining churches.


We want to remain theologically conservative and protect the doctrine of our churches.


We want our convention to partner with non-SBC leadership conferences.
Convention Renewal

We want our convention to be organized for maximum effectiveness.


We want our convention to have a clear and compelling vision.


We want to clearly understand what Southern Baptists represent.


We want our convention to be good stewards of our limited financial resources.


We want the decision-making of our convention done with graciousness and openness, with a positive public image.
Diversity and Inclusiveness

We want our convention to be inclusive of all kinds of church leaders.


We want a diversity of church leaders and church models platformed at convention meetings.


We want to be included and welcomed by convention leaders.


We want to affirm the role of women in our convention.


We want our convention to be understanding of culture and embrace its diversity.
Healthy Relationships

We want to be understood and appreciated for who we are.


We want conflict managed in a positive, Christ-like way.


We want mentoring from experienced leaders.


We want relationships of mutual trust that are genuine and transparent.


We want opportunities to network with other emerging leaders.

Agree or disagree? With what? Why? Whatever your stand, at least you gain a sense of what the "younger generation" of ministers are thinking about and focused upon.