By Chuck Bugg
Al Mohler, president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, recently predicted that the CBF may divide over the issue of “homosexuality.” Perhaps he is right. However, at its best CBF has been able to affirm diversity without degenerating into division.
First, moderate Baptists respect diversity of opinion. That respect is built on our regard for each other. Moderate Baptists don’t try to suppress differences of opinion or attempt to intimidate those who disagree with us. We listen not just to those who echo our thoughts but to those whose points of view are different. We believe that God helps us to grow through all the voices to which we listen.
Second, moderate Baptists value people, even those whose lifestyles and views are not ours. I am a white, heterosexual, male. How grateful I am for those who are different and have enriched my life by their friendships. Do I agree with everything I’ve heard? No! But my prayer is that I will love and respect all of God’s creation.
Third, moderate Baptists believe the Bible, but they recognize that all of us interpret the Bible. Dr. Mohler, for example, sees the first few chapters of Genesis as a literal account of God’s creation. I see this as a narrative in which the fundamental meaning is that God creates in God’s own way. Do I believe that God creates and continues to recreate us in Jesus Christ? Absolutely!
While Al Mohler and I disagree about many things, I have to say that he is right in one sense. This is a time of disagreement among folks in the CBF, especially on the issue of human sexuality. To avoid dialogue, however, is to forsake our birthright as Baptists who believe that we can care for each other even when we disagree. Let’s show Dr. Mohler that we are better than he predicts. The fact is that we need each other.