What has happened to the grand old name, Baptist? Why are some
Baptist churches distancing themselves from the name “Baptist?” Why
has the Southern Baptist Sunday School Board changed its name, leaving the word
“Baptist” out?
What has happened to the grand old name, Baptist? Why are some
Baptist churches distancing themselves from the name “Baptist?” Why
has the Southern Baptist Sunday School Board changed its name, leaving the word
“Baptist” out?
Over the years, Baptists have picked up lots of negative baggage,
much of it deserved. Many Baptist churches trying to overcome this negative
image are offering a smorgasbord of religious services. You can now have charismatic
or traditional preaching, contemporary music or hymns, dress codes from casual
to Sunday best.
People dont automatically join the church or even the
denomination where their parents hold membership. This has brought on a new
trend, “church shopping.” You visit churches until you find one you
like or feel comfortable with. Billy Graham, who, incidentally, is a Baptist,
recommended this.
Our Baptist Sunday School Board and its affiliates have changed
their name. Their new name is “LifeWay.” They have already put up
this new name in Shreveport on what was formerly known as the Baptist Book Store.
How far can you stretch name changes and remain a Baptist? I dont know
but believe we are going to find out.”
L.B. Miller
Doyline