The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) has been embroiled in a theological struggle, particularly during the latter third of the 20th century. This struggle has been characterized by the emergence of five identifiable groups, each with their own perspectives and goals [c8788bfc].
Dr. Richard Land, a prominent voice within the SBC, emphasizes the importance of historical perspective in understanding the impact of the Conservative Resurgence. He argues that the Conservative Resurgence was not a revolution, but rather a conscious attempt at theological restoration [c8788bfc].
The Conservative Resurgence brought about significant changes within the SBC. It sought to address what some saw as a drift towards theological liberalism and reaffirm the denomination's commitment to theological conservatism [c8788bfc].
Dr. Land cautions against comparing the current state of the convention to idealized visions, instead urging a comparison to the hypothetical condition if the reform movement had not taken place. He argues that without the Conservative Resurgence, the SBC would have continued its theological drift and experienced the same division as American Methodists [c8788bfc].
The impact of the Conservative Resurgence on the SBC has been enduring. It has solidified the denomination's commitment to theological orthodoxy and served as a reminder of the importance of constant vigilance in preserving doctrinal integrity [c8788bfc].
An 18-month-long federal investigation into the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Executive Committee has concluded without any charges or action against it. The investigation was expected to look into multiple entities within the SBC. The country's largest Protestant denomination has been the subject of a Justice Department probe that showed SBC leaders refused to respond to allegations of abuse and failed to enact policies to protect its members from predatory pastors. The Executive Committee, which oversees everyday business for the SBC, said it was informed that its part of the investigation had concluded 'with no further action to be taken.' The Justice Department has not publicly acknowledged or commented on the investigation. SBC abuse survivor and advocate Christa Brown stated that the closure of the investigation does not lessen the SBC's moral responsibility for grievous harms. The scope and focus of the inquiry have not been publicly specified, and it is unusual for federal investigators to get involved in clergy abuse cases. No other SBC entity has publicly acknowledged any involvement in the investigation. The SBC is currently facing lawsuits from abuse victims and legal expenses related to the abuse response have cost the Executive Committee $2.8 million in the previous fiscal year. [c3185d00]