By Bob Allen A Mercer University administrator who transferred from Macon, Ga., to Atlanta to recruit the first entering class when McAfee School of Theology opened in 1996, is new pastor at the city’s Second-Ponce de Leon Baptist Church. Dock…
Moderates seek exit from ‘messy middle’
By Jeff Brumley Many are convinced that beyond addressing material and spiritual needs, moderate Baptist churches must become more vocal advocates for “the least of these” in society. Some are forming congregational programs, while institutions like the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship are studying…
Conference marks 200 years of missions
By Bob Allen A three-day conference in November will celebrate 200 years of Baptist missions and explore the lasting impact of Ann and Adoniram Judson, the first U.S. Baptist missionaries to serve on foreign soil. “The Judsons: Celebrating 200 Years…
They shoot preachers, don’t they?
In his book Don’t Shoot, criminologist David Kennedy identifies a disconnect between a criminal justice system built on the notion of personal responsibility and the fact that gang bangers think and behave as members of a group. You can’t reduce…
Preaching peace in a timid church
When ministers are afraid to speak prophetically about peace they fail to be a voice for the Prince of Peace. At the 2012 William Self Preaching Lectures at the McAfee School of Theology, “Preaching Peace in a Crumbling Empire,” Brian…
Coaching youth ministers
I am a youth minister and have 20 years of experience. I am passionate about youth ministry, and I have great admiration for those who minister to youth. Consequently, I coach youth ministers. I have a handful of clients, all…
RIGHT or WRONG? Civil rights and immigration
What lessons from the Civil Rights Movement can and should be applied to the recent Arizona immigration law, as well as any larger American debate over immigration? The most common item mentioned since this law was passed is “racial profiling”…