SBC WRAP-UP

Now that the convention is over, it seemed like a good idea to give my purely subjective reflections on last week's events.

First, it is a good time to be a part of the SBC family. There was a good spirit around the convention. There are, of course, exceptions to the rule (more on that in a moment). But for the most part there was an uncommon unity among the brethren.

Second, the creation of the Great Commission Task Force was a much needed step in the process of becoming a Great Commission denomination. The most contested part of this resolution called for an evaluation of SBC entities to check our efficiency and effectiveness for the gospel. This is a necessary step for both churches and denominations to take to ensure good stewardship and faithfulness to the mission. No one is above correction and improvement. If there is a more effective way to do our part in the Great Commission, let's do it. Evidently the messengers felt the same way and passed the resolution by more than 95%.

Third, the SBC is filled with godly, inspiring leaders. I could literally give countless examples, but I will limit my comments to three men. Johny Hunt was re-elected as president. Throughout our time in Kentucky he was a model of humble courage. For example, during his pastor's conference message, Dr. Hunt shared how he spoke harshly to a man when he arrived. Feeling convicted, he hunted the man down until he could ask forgiveness. That is the kind of leader I want to follow--a somebody who is concerned about the nobodies. Danny Akin--the president of the greatest seminary in the world--did much of the same. In the weeks leading up to the convention, Dr. Akin received much criticism for his part in the Great Commission resurgence movement. Yet, he never displayed the anger and bitterness that often arise when one is unfairly attacked. Instead he displayed a faith based optimism that was truly amazing. In fact, one person even called him a "happy warrior." Mark Dever provided a model of a servant's heart. Dr. Dever is pastor of Capital Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C. He has written numerous books and serves as president of Nine Marks Ministry. Although he is a high-profile pastor, he spent most of his time at the Nine Marks booth talking to all comers. As I watched, I thought, "He would do this if no one knew who he was." And judging from the amount of ministry inters he has, I believe that he does. Humble, courageous, and loving servants inspire me to serve in the same way.

Finally, sin is a constant force to battle in movements for good. Unfortunately, some messengers came to the convention ticked, and it showed in their motions. From angry rants to sinful name calling, they were a black-eye on an otherwise joyful gathering. Things like this are a reminder of the constant need to watch our all-too-sinful hearts (Prov. 4:23). It is also a call to patience. We are all still in process and have much to learn. As God is patient with us, so let us be patient with others.

I thank God for this opportunity and for the church family that made it possible. I want to serve the Lord with more zeal than when I left. I have a deeper desire to see God transform lives and our church by his glorious grace. And I pray that these lessons will stay with us as we stay on mission for the king.