Published on March 15, 2024, 1:00 am

The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has been embroiled in a scandal, following allegations of systemic abuse cover-ups by the denomination and many of its leaders over the last three years. In a startling real news update, it appears that Dean Inserra, one of the early advocates for an investigation into these alleged cover-ups, has not only been elected to preach at the 2024 annual meeting of the SBC but is also planning to nominate Georgia’s pastor Brad Whitt for next year’s SBC Pastors Conference President.

Inserra, owing to his advocacy for purported victims over the past few years, seems hopeful about his new role. While some perceive him as being instrumental in drawing attention to this issue within SBC circles – with some seeing this as part of a Christian worldview whereby leaders must step up for justice – questions arise regarding his fitness for these roles based mostly on his varied connections.

Adam Page, another pastor well-known to Inserra, presents an interesting perspective. Page appears less accepting about aimless accusations thrown during what can be simplified as ‘sex-abuse cover-up’ narratives developing within the SBC community. However, despite their contrasting opinions on many issues within the SBC community, both have maintained their camaraderie.

In an audio clip from March 2022, just after Inserra took over as a part of Executive Committee along with others who expressed concern towards survivors, an alleged victim confronted him about his friendship with Adam Page. This followed Inserra’s claim that he has never met Adam Page in his life.

It’s plausible that Inserra misrepresented this aspect due to specific doubts held by Page about most victims’ allegations and adaption at that time. Although focusing directly on survivors or manipulation on these issues is not relevant here; instead it concerns truthful representation while taking leadership positions in such significant conventions where trust constitutes a fundamental attribute.

Is it fair enough to lie merely to enhance a narrative or drive an agenda? For the Southern Baptists who treasure truthfulness and transparency, it’s critical to realize they might not attain it from Dean Inserra. This development seems alarming as it makes us reflect on the state of trusted news while being open in gambling with ‘real’ truth for fulfilling personal aspirations.

The SBC’s current situation is a reminder of our broader societal and cultural clashes marked by sexual permissiveness that contradict the biblical vision. Whether within religious congregations or secular corporations like Disney, growing instances of left-wing, pro-abortion, and pro-homosexual activism send ripples through Christian institutions worldwide.

Navigating this challenging landscape requires wisdom, discernment, and a firm grip on the Bible’s grounded truths. Such turbulence within notable Christian forums serves as a wakeup call highlighting risks of succumbing to popular culture at the expense of spiritual health. It draws attention to sobering instances where leaders fall short in prioritizing honesty and faith over personal interests.