The Southern Baptist Convention and the Issue of Interdenominational Relationships

Albert Mohler Blog ^ | July 16, 2009 | Dr. Albert Mohler

[wmfights]

Southern Baptists stand unalterably opposed to any ecumenical or interchurch union not based upon common convictions and practices drawn from the teachings of the Bible. That is, Southern Baptists will not negotiate a union that would violate our understandings of regenerate church membership, local church autonomy, free church polity, the ordinances, etc. Southern Baptists are nevertheless committed to the unity of the churches—but this is a spiritual union until such time as others convince us that we are in error, or join us on the basis of common conviction. Though opposed to movements toward federation or organic union, Southern Baptists are committed to work with other evangelical denominations in common causes, and count all those who know the Lord Jesus as Savior to be true Christians and our true brothers and sisters. While we differ on important issues such as church government and the nature of the ordinances (i.e. opposing all sacramentalism), we nonetheless consider these brothers and sisters to be true Christians with whom we can work toward legitimate spiritual ends (i.e., evangelism and missions). Though considering non-Christians and the Roman Catholic Church to be the objects of our spiritual concern and evangelistic mission, we are nonetheless committed to work with “all men of good will in any good cause.” Thus, we can work with secular Americans and Roman Catholic leaders in common cause for the abolition of abortion, the defense of marriage, and in contending for religious liberty, these offered as examples only.

[wmfights]

In sum, the Southern Baptist Convention has exhibited a remarkably consistent pattern of cooperation without compromise. This has operated at three levels. First, there can be no structural unity without true biblical unity. Our true unity with other Christians is spiritual. Second, we can faithfully cooperate with other evangelical Christians in the accomplishment of spiritual goals, such as evangelism, missions, and the defense and propagation of biblical truth. Third, we should cooperate with non-Christians and non-evangelicals in common cultural and moral causes. This must be done without violating Baptist principles or restricting Baptist witness.

[SnakeDoctor]

>> cooperation without compromise

A good philosophy for religion, politics and foreign policy.

SnakeDoc

[RnMomof7]

Though considering non-Christians and the Roman Catholic Church to be the objects of our spiritual concern and evangelistic mission, we are nonetheless committed to work with “all men of good will in any good cause.” Thus, we can work with secular Americans and Roman Catholic leaders in common cause for the abolition of abortion, the defense of marriage, and in contending for religious liberty, these offered as examples only.

I do not agree with this position.. As individuals we can work together..but our denominations should not develop alliances with non Christian denominations or secular groups.. for political or social causes

[wmfights]

What if a group of Doctors want to fight abortion, but are atheists?

[BenKenobi]

It’s plenty clear they regard the two as the same. Sad.

[Tax-chick]

I think this position is very reasonable and sensible.

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bump for doctrine

[chesley]

This spiritual union does not depend on organizations, or forms, or ritual. It is deeper, higher, broader, and more stable than any and all organizations. We believe that all people who believe in Christ as their personal Savior are our brothers in the common salvation, whether they be in the Catholic communion, or in a Protestant communion, or in any other communion, or in no communion.”

From the article

[chesley]

And more

Based on Baptist convictions, the Convention can recognize Christians of other denominations as true believers without affirming the judgment that their church is a true New Testament church.

[johngrace]

Hi W- Correct me if I am wrong but I believe Al Mohler is anti charismatic. If he is like John Macarthur who believes all spiritual tongues(languages) is of the enemy. He is not dealing with too many christians. Also anti-catholic. He has a narrow relationship with alot of christian people. Yet so narrow minded.

[johngrace]

Thanks for pointing out! gotcha!

[RnMomof7]

What if a group of Doctors want to fight abortion, but are atheists?

Will as individuals we can work (and pray more) on any SOCIAL cause.. BUT the DENOMINATION should not be a part of any social cause with other NON CHRISTIAN denomination .

We should not soil the name of Christ or the gospel with that kind of social compromise.

[wmfights]

We should not soil the name of Christ or the gospel with that kind of social compromise.

I'm with you 100%. It's also why we will never be in agreement with any other church that preaches a different Gospel. However, as long as the enemy of my enemies is working with us on a common goal we should be together. For example, we should work with RC's on ending abortion, but always recognize they preach a different gospel.