Program Not Doctrine

#15 May 17, 2010

Part 1

Cecil Sherman died on April 17, 2010. He had led the so-called "moderate" element of Baptist Life now known as the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Dr. Al Mohler wrote a piece on the legacy of Sherman. The following quote is from that article.

Speaking of the adoption of the denomination's first confession of faith, The Baptist Faith & Message, in 1925, he asserted that "no one paid attention to it." He was largely right. The denominational culture that produced the generation of Cecil Sherman was a culture of program, not doctrine.

Validation of this fact is not difficult. So called leaders are all looking for a quick fix, a painless path to numerical and spiritual growth. None exists. Give these impotent charlatans the option of the latest greatest 'program' and a clear path to true biblical transformation and they will snap up the program formula every time. I met with denominational leaders (sic) whose responsibility was church renewal. I began by stating there is no such thing as a 'quick fix'. Less than 10 minutes into my presentation one of them said, 'Tom, we are hemorrhaging, we need a quick fix!'

What don't you understand about the statement 'There is no "quick fix"? The addiction to programs is lethal and deeply etched on the soul of SBC life (and other denominations as well).

Part 2

Consider this statement from the work of James Davidson Hunter To Change The World.

Change in political systems and economic conditions can occur relatively quickly but the most profound changes in culture typically take place over the course of multiple generations. p. 45

Hunter also makes clear that the ideal access to effective change is through those he labels 'gatekeepers'. Most of these folks are also addicted to programs. They are prone to status quo verses change because change brings tension, strife and sometimes outright raw conflict.

What is the solution to the horns of this dilemma? I suspect it is the same as it was for the OT Prophets. Pray. Weep. Persevere. But, DO NOT COMPROMISE THE TRUTH! New Methods, sociological pablum devoid of Theological Substance will produce change and do so rather quickly. Another new program. But, the epitaph of this pathway will be yet another failed and abortive disaster, seeking to substitute program for substance.

The need of the hour is for Leaders who lead with Courage, Compassion and an unflinching dedication to the Truth of Scripture as determined by Holy Spirit directed fidelity to the text, Applied Theology with loving zeal for Christ and His Church. Now that's a novel idea!!

Pray for and with IgniteUS for legions of such Leaders. Our PURPOSE is to build leadership competence to transform Americ'as churches into healthy, intentional disciple-makers.

Follow this link and learn of 'unbelieving pastors'. This is truly a "fox watching the hen-house" issue! http://www.baptistpress.com/bpnews.asp?id=32843