I hope that I did not read too much into the statements that
were quoted in the November 21 issue of the Baptist Message from LBC President
Tommy French. “Anyone who seeks to bypass the local pastors is acting like
a pope.”
I hope that I did not read too much into the statements that
were quoted in the November 21 issue of the Baptist Message from LBC President
Tommy French. “Anyone who seeks to bypass the local pastors is acting like
a pope.” Then he says to pastors and church members (probably primarily
pastors) “You lead them. They don’t lead you. You teach them. They
don’t teach you.”
This language disturbs me. I have been a Baptist all of my
life and have known lots of preachers — many of them good and Godly men;
but I have never known one who knew all of the truth. I taught school for a
short time and I have taught Sunday School for approximately 40 years. I feel
I have learned a great deal from those in my classes and, hopefully, they learned
a little from me. The very best scenario is when we work together and learn
from each other for none of us is completely whole. I believe that Paul described
the relationship as “fellow-servants in the Lord.” We all have our
strengths and, unfortunately, we all have our weaknesses; but all of us are
called to serve. The Bible, as I understand it, seems to say more about serving
than about leading. Even when we lead, it is important that we do so with a
servant heart. It is also important to keep in mind that when we have offices
this does not make us officers to exert power or authority. Rather, the office
is to enhance the necessary functions of service.
We do not need more bad publicity about Baptists. If we are
to continue as a denomination, we must be more positive, more encouraging, and
more tolerant of each other. Preachers and lay-people alike should insist upon
it.
Mark Newton
Bentley