Denominational Relations Committee Report

by T. C. Pinckney                                                           Vol. IV, No. 9, December 1991

Chairman Ray Spence, pastor of Second Baptist Church, Richmond, brought two recommendations from the Denominational Relationships Committee to the BGAV convention. The first was that the body authorize the BGAV treasurer to receive and disburse funds designated by churches to Cooperative Missions, Inc. (the financial arm of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship). Following debate this motion passed on a standing vote estimated at 60 to 65% in favor, 35 to 40% opposed.

Conservatives may expect with some confidence that this is the nose of the camel appearing underneath the edge of the tent. In another year or two, if things don't change in Virginia, we will see increasing amounts of money channelled to the Fellowship and less to the SBC. We may also see a formal organizational relationship established as liberals try to woo Virginia Baptists from their loyalty to the SBC and direct them toward the Fellowship.

The second committee recommendation was a resolution to affirm the new liberal seminary in Richmond and authorize the state treasurer to receive and disburse funds designated by churches and individuals to the seminary. This resolution also passed on a standing vote, but with a smaller majority, perhaps 55% in favor, 45% against.

The major purpose of this action appears to be to qualify students at the new seminary to receive Keesee Foundation supporting grants. But again, it is the beginning of a relationship which will grow as long as liberals remain in control of the BGAV.

Both of these actions clearly demonstrate the direction the BGAV leadership is heading. In fact, one pastor speaking at a microphone openly admitted that he and his church were not at all sure they want to remain Southern Baptists, but they do want to stay Virginia Baptists!

Hosea 4:6 says, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. ...” We are also commanded to love the Lord with "all our mind" as well as our heart and soul. Virginia Baptists need to see the broad picture of what is happening in our state and place these recommendations in context with all the changes of the last year or so.