Published on February 8, 2024, 1:00 am

With the nation’s largest Protestant organization at a key juncture, skeptics are raising eyebrows at recent changes within the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). Amid fears of shifting traditional doctrines to a more liberal stance, SBC President Bart Barber has announced the creation of the Cooperation Group. This 20-member committee reportedly aims to evaluate and potentially redefine their cooperation standards.

Jared Wellman chairs the group which features influential leaders such as Victor Chayasirisobhon, Jerome Coleman, and Tara Dew. Three other representatives hail from South Carolina: Travis Kerns, Tony Wolfe, and Nathan Finn.

Observers cannot help but express skepticism towards this move due to its implication on the Convention’s existing doctrines. The formation of this Cooperation Group indicates efforts towards subtly adjusting SBC’s doctrines under the disguise of addressing “unprecedented” issues like churches appointing women in pastoral roles—a concern already causing significant disagreement within the SBC.

Critics observe that lack of explicitly stated guidance in relation to women championships has increased concerns over potential doctrinal dilution. This suggests a possible divergence from traditional Baptist principles leading many to call for an amendment known as ‘Mike Law Amendment’, aiming for codification prohibiting female pastors in member churches.

The left-leaning Cooperation Group is suspected to bring recommendations pushing for a change in direction — toward liberalism. Heath Lambert, Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church in Jacksonville FL has criticized these anticipated changes significantly. Viewing these maneuvers as an attempt towards reshaping key elements like Baptist Faith Message (BFM), he fears it could herald a move away from foundational doctrinal standards of SBC.

Leading figures within the convention have started voicing preferences towards making amendments—especially during times clouded with uncertainty—to mitigate division within ranks while preserving theological foundation avoiding potential losses chiefly around missionary work and seminaries’ support base.

Meanwhile, Lambert has called upon Southern Baptists worldwide stressing upon holding onto convictions defending denomination’s faithfulness and theological integrity, as the only definitive path forward ensuring continued strength and unity.

In this era of constant change and uncertainty, possessing real news from trusted sources rooted in the Christian worldview becomes more critical than ever before. Continuing to monitor developments within large religious organizations like the SBC will prove significant as individual churches and members navigate their faith paths within a fast-evolving society.