Freedom
Church Clashes Over The Fate of Major Debate
In a bold move at the Southern Baptist Convention’s Annual Meeting in Dallas, Texas, Pastor Willy Rice of Calvary Baptist Church in Clearwater, Florida, introduced a motion to abolish the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC). This proposal has sparked a significant debate about the future of the convention’s policy arm, which has been a cornerstone of Southern Baptist advocacy for over a century.
Pastor Rice’s motion, which called on SBC messengers to “vote to abolish the ERLC,” received a second from another messenger and was met with applause from some attendees. This motion is not just a fleeting idea; it represents a growing sentiment among some Southern Baptists who feel the ERLC has strayed from its mission of upholding traditional Christian values.
For the ERLC to be abolished, the motion must pass by a majority vote at two consecutive annual meetings. If successful this year, it will need to be approved again next year. This process underscores the seriousness with which this proposal is being considered.
The ERLC has faced criticism in recent years for its leadership and advocacy positions. Notably, some within the SBC have objected to the ERLC’s past opposition to bills that seek to punish women seeking abortion and its association with the Evangelical Immigration Table. Additionally, former ERLC President Russell Moore’s condemnation of President Donald Trump has not sat well with many conservative members.
William Wolfe, executive director of the Center for Baptist Leadership, emphasized the importance of this vote. He stated, “The vote to abolish the ERLC is not a cudgel, it’s a clock.” Wolfe’s remarks highlight the urgency for the ERLC to make significant changes and demonstrate its commitment to listening to the concerns of SBC messengers.
Tom Buck, senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Lindale, Texas, echoed similar sentiments. He wrote that the vote “isn’t a risky overreaction,” but rather a necessary step to signal the seriousness of the call for reform. Buck emphasized that the ERLC has a year to make a “real course correction.”
Despite these calls for change, the ERLC has its defenders. Last month, ten former SBC presidents signed an open letter in support of the ERLC, praising its steadfast defense of religious liberty and its role in the fight against abortion and other social issues. The letter stated, “For decades, the ERLC has steadfastly defended our Southern Baptist commitment to religious liberty.”
Richard D. Land, who served as ERLC president from 1988 to 2013, argued against the motion to abolish the ERLC, stating that “greater discussion and dialogue” are needed rather than eliminating the entity altogether. Land’s perspective underscores the importance of maintaining a platform for Southern Baptists to interpret moral and policy challenges through a biblical lens.
As the SBC grapples with this pivotal decision, it is clear that the future of the ERLC will be shaped by the voices of those committed to preserving faith, family, and freedom. The path forward requires wisdom and discernment, ensuring that the ERLC remains a vital force for promoting biblical values in our society.
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