Debating Calvinism in the SBC Just Got Serious

I wrote an article on SBC Voices about a Southern Baptist church that was denied entry into their local Southern Baptist association of churches because of its Calvinism. Now things are getting hot! The founders of the SBC were originally mostly Calvinists. Over time, they lost the majority and are now a minority. The Baptist Faith and Message, a statement of beliefs that most Southern Baptists hold to, doesn't take a stance one way or the other on the whole Calvinism issue. That's why I find it a shame that an association would deny membership to a church merely because of the church's convictions about God's sovereignty, election, and how grace is imparted.

Whether you're SBC or not, this is an interesting article that gives a window into the biggest debate within the Southern Baptist Convention.

Two new books (not from Southern Baptists), speak both for and against Calvinism, aptly titled For Calvinism by Michael Horton and Against Calvinism by Roger Olson. I'd suggest checking one or both of them out.

Calvinism in the Ring

Today is Calvinism day over at SBC Voices, the blog where I now contribute. That means contributors, including me, will have articles both for and against different aspects of Calvinism, as well as commentary on current issues regarding Calvinism. I anticipate a lot of comments in the comment stream and some good interaction over the whole debate.

Whether you’re for Calvinism, against it, somewhere in between, or totally unaware, there’ll be something for everyone. Consider this the “Black Tuesday” of theology on SBC Voices without the early wake up times, long lines, or insane people fighting over Care Bears. Well, maybe a few insane people.

Writing for a New Blog

You'll notice there's a new tab on the blog today. It's a direct link to SBC Voices, a blog run by a good friend of mine, Dave Miller. This is because sbcIMPACT! is going on a hiatus and I will become a contributor to SBC Voices, which is quite an honor. It has become a sort-of one-stop-shop for all blogs Southern Baptist. But don't think that the posts and articles are limited to matters of importance only to Southern Baptists.

The theological views on a range of issues varies from contributor to contributor, and you'll see a lot of discussion about matters of church organization, Calvinism and Arminianism, mission, pastoral helps, and much, much more.

Check out the site. I'll definitely keep you informed when I have a new post up.