RSS feed for JAMES A. SMITH SR. @ Florida Baptist Witness (FBW) Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 -0900 Far more spiritually mature and thoughtful persons than I have wrestled with the mystery of the relationship of God’s providence to man’s choices. Unable to fully comprehend the depth and workings of these parallel truths, we nevertheless understand Scripture to teach that God governs in the affairs of man even while man is responsible for his free choices. Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0900 Sometimes, fiction is all too close to fact. <br><br> Prompted by the motion picture release late last year, I recently began reading Les Misérables, Victor Hugo’s inestimable historical novel about the tumultuous early decades of 19th century France. Hugo’s complex, lengthy story has many plots and subplots centered on the themes of law and grace, personified by the characters policeman Javert and convict Jean Valjean. Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSE (FBW)—From the perspective of a longtime pro-family leader in Tallahassee, the 2013 legislative session was a mixed result—“signs of hope amidst disappointment.” Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 OVIEDO (FBW)—“There’s nothing wrong with America that a good, old-fashioned revival wouldn’t fix,” Southern Baptist leader Richard Land told “The Awakening” conference April 19 at First Baptist Church in Oviedo. <BR><BR> As part of the two-day conference, Liberty Counsel and Freedom Federation honored Land, president of the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, with a “Lifetime Achievement Award.” Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – As the Florida Legislature approaches the last two weeks of its annual session, three pro-life bills approved by the House face uncertainty in the Senate. Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – On largely party-line votes, the Florida House of Representatives passed today two bills backed by pro-life members after contentious debates that drew a gentle rebuke by Speaker Will Weatherford. Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSE (FBW) – A bill that requires medical attention for babies that are born alive after an abortion unanimously passed the Florida House of Representatives today. Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—The postal address of Connections Fellowship places the congregation in Tallahassee, but the poor community it serves might as well as be light years from the state capital. <br><br> In order to reach impoverished people—more than 90 percent of school age children in the western section of Leon County qualify for government-subsidized meals—Pastor Michael Murray has moved into the community to start the church, which began in January. Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 Let’s be honest – sometimes Christians are just plain mean. Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSE (FBW) – A bill that requires medical attention for babies that are born alive after an abortion passed a Senate committee unanimously on Tuesday. Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – The Florida Legislature has passed the mid-way point of its annual 60-day session, acting on a number of moral concerns of interest to Florida Baptists. Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0900 One side talks about choice. The other side talks about life. In the abortion debate, there are few times when clarity breaks through so that only the most ardently committed, truly pro-abortion advocates can fail to see – or at least admit – the moral reality of abortion. Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – It’s a family mantra around the Will Weatherford household. Even 5-year-old Ella knows how to pray for her father, Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives. Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Republicans should be a “big tent” welcoming diverse kinds of people without “capitulating on our principles,” Florida House Speaker Will Weatherford believes. One of those principles is the traditional definition of marriage. Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – As the Florida House of Representatives is set Thursday to approve a bill banning Internet gambling cafés, Speaker Will Weatherford believes the measure will “probably be the biggest reduction in gaming” in Florida history. Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0900 It would be easy to assume a posture of resignation to the seemingly unstoppable cultural slide against biblical standards of morality. Especially on the issue of homosexuality, those who contend for biblical morality in our society are increasingly in a defensive position. More public policy losses than wins pile up, while the near universal affirmation of homosexuality from virtually all segments of societal opinion makers is clearly moving public opinion. Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0900 LIVE OAK (FBW)—It takes time to achieve “really significant things” in a church, according to Jimmy Deas, who recently celebrated his 20th anniversary as pastor of Westwood Baptist Church in Live Oak. <BR><BR> The congregation celebrated Deas’ two decades of leadership Feb. 24 with recognition in the worship service, a church-wide meal, and a cash gift. Mon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0900 When Tim Tebow called an audible recently on speaking at First Baptist Church in Dallas the nationwide controversy about his prospective appearance quickly shifted from a fight between the secular media and evangelicals to one of a dispute between fellow evangelicals. Tebow was on the receiving end of severe blows – first from secular critics, then from his fellow evangelicals. Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 LAKE CITY (FBW)—Robert Davis hasn’t led First Baptist Church in Lake City since 2000, but the congregation showed its continuing love for its former pastor Feb. 10 by honoring him with the title pastor emeritus. <br><br> Invited to preach to the church he served for 23 years, Davis was completely surprised to receive the recognition. Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (FBW)—Pornography is the “pink elephant in the pew”—the embarrassing, big subject no one wants to talk about—and that silence is feeding a “bubonic plague” harming churches, Lakeland pastor Jay Dennis told state Baptist convention executive directors and editors Feb. 14 meeting in Oklahoma City. <BR><BR> “Our Enemy has found the perfect tool to deliver temptation to men—men who love God, men who love their wives, love their children, and love their churches,” said Dennis, pastor of First Baptist Church at the Mall in Lakeland. “Yet their involvement in looking at pornography has virtually duct-tapped their mouths closed and taken them out of spiritual leadership in the home and in the church.” Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – A measure that would allow for civil unions, granting legal relationship rights to people who aren’t married, stalled Feb. 19 in a Senate committee, although the sponsor suggested a narrower version may be brought back for consideration. Wed, 20 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 Evangelicals in America—including Florida Baptists—lack a “deep sense of brokenness” because of our self-reliance. Until there is dependence on God and total brokenness in our midst, we will not see revival. <br><br> That was the message of Clayton Cloer during a Feb. 7 worship service held in conjunction with the State Board of Missions meeting at Lake Yale Baptist Conference Center. The brief message—only about 10 minutes—prefaced a time of extended prayer, following a pattern led by Cloer at meetings around the state since the fall of 2011 as part of the ReVision Florida effort. Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—A long-tenured pastorate is not just about “gritting your teeth and saying, ‘I’m staying 20 years, no matter what,’” says Jacksonville pastor Tim Maynard, who celebrated last month his 20th anniversary as pastor of Fruit Cove Baptist Church. <br><br> “It’s not just about me staying,” said Maynard. “It’s such a partnership. … I think part of the story is the church very graciously allowed that to happen.” Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 BRANDON (FBW)—About 120 Florida Baptists gathered Jan. 28 at First Baptist Church in Brandon for a networking dinner and conversation about church health and revitalization and to hear testimonies of God’s transformation of struggling congregations. <br><br> “We recognize God is at work in many ways in your hearts—pastors, church leaders—and we want to understand that from a Kingdom perspective,” Emanuel Roque, team strategist for Leadership Ministries of the Florida Baptist Convention, told the gathering. Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 Momentum for immigration reform legislation in Washington seems to be growing. Remarkably, a possible consensus is very similar to the principles Southern Baptists affirmed in 2011. But no matter what happens in terms of changes in public policy, a Gospel imperative remains for all followers of Christ. Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0900 BRANDON (FBW)—With nearly as many Southern Baptist churches being shuttered as started each year, revitalizing existing congregations must be understood to have eternal consequences, former SBC president Johnny Hunt said Jan. 29 at First Baptist Church in Brandon. Fri, 25 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Lessons learned from Florida’s history of incremental escalation of gambling should instruct the Legislature as it considers future gambling policy, a leading opponent said Jan. 22 during a meeting of the Senate Gaming Committee. Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0900 FRUITLAND PARK (FBW)—First Baptist Church in Fruitland Park ceased to exist after its final service Dec. 30, 2012, but its last pastor says God’s Kingdom will advance as the church passes the “baton of ministry” and gives its assets to a sister congregation. <BR><BR> “I think the most important aspect of this story is not that a church closed its doors, but that a church decided to do what would impact the Kingdom of God the most—and then did it,” Chad Driggers, pastor of the now-defunct Fruitland Park church, told Florida Baptist Witness. Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—A theatrical production of the Christian classic The Screwtape Letters will be performed in Orlando and Jacksonville in the coming weeks and are ideal opportunities for Christians to engage unbelievers about spiritual matters, according to its director. Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0900 Following the direction of Florida Senate and House leaders, a newly appointed Senate Gaming Committee is making plans for a “comprehensive” study of the status of gambling in the Sunshine State. The study is a part of a go-slow approach in which no gambling legislation is promised in this year’s legislative session while the state’s complex web of gambling laws are evaluated. Mon, 14 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – A Jacksonville church is seeking to minister to its community after a shooting victim was found dead on its property Jan. 12.<br><br>“There’s a family that’s grieving and others in the community that are trying to make sense of what’s going on in their backyard,” John Green, pastor of Shindler Drive Baptist Church told Florida Baptist Witness on Jan. 14. Tue, 08 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0900 It’s not theoretical any longer. <br><br> Hobby Lobby—a business owned by Christians seeking to run their company on biblical principles—is currently in jeopardy of government fines of $1.3 million PER DAY for its principled refusal to provide to employees contraceptive healthcare coverage that includes abortion-inducing drugs. Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0900 It’s Christmastime, which means it’s time for Christians to get agitated about the verbiage used by retailers and whether nativity scenes are permitted at City Hall. Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0900 DAYTONA BEACH (FBW)—About 100 men at Tomoka Correctional Institution were treated to a Dec. 6 Christmas banquet by prison ministry volunteers of Fruit Cove Baptist Church, a culmination of a year-round ministry by the Jacksonville church to the Daytona Beach inmates. Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0900 OLUSTEE (FBW)—Evangelist James Croft stands only 3-feet, 10-inches tall, but he has big plans for the Baker County Commission, returning to office seeking to fix the county’s budget problems after a more than two-decade hiatus. Mon, 03 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0900 At the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting last month I announced some changes that are in the works for our website and other digital publishing platforms, asking those in attendance to walk this new path with us. I write here to inform our readers, again urging you to travel with us on this new road. Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0900 The outgoing and incoming presidents of the Florida Baptist State Convention each offered challenging words Nov. 13 as one exited and the other assumed leadership of Florida Baptists during the annual meeting. Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Florida Baptists’ legacy must be that they “poured out” everything in their ministries on the right altar that will bring glory only to God, David Uth preached Nov. 13 at the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting. Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—A “seismic shift” in American culture demonstrated by the results of the recent election is a call for Florida Baptists to “contend for the faith as you’ve never before,” Jeff Singletary preached Nov. 13 at the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting. Wed, 14 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0900 GAINSEVILLE (FBW)—A foster home for at-risk children in North Central Florida more than 10 years in the making is seven shovels of dirt closer to reality after a Nov. 2 groundbreaking ceremony at the Gainesville site of a new facility of Florida Baptist Children’s Homes. Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Florida voters rejected pro-life and religious freedom amendments to the state constitution proposed by the Legislature, failing to gain even a simple majority of support for the measures that required super-majority approval of 60 percent. Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—A lack of “passionate consensus” among Florida Baptists for some of the changes recommended by the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence Task Force concerns David Uth, outgoing Florida Baptist State Convention president. <br><br> “While we are moving ahead” with implementing the IIGCRTF recommendations, “I just wish there was more of a consensus—passionate consensus—that, ‘Hey, we’re going to do this. We’ve got to do this. This is great. Yes, it’s hard, but we’re going to do this,’” Uth said in an Oct. 30 interview with Florida Baptist Witness. Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0900 Southern Baptists are “People of The Book.” <BR><BR> By that, this oft-repeated claim contends that Southern Baptists are committed to the Bible. We believe it to be true, “without any mixture of error,” as our Baptist Faith and Message says. We pattern our doctrinal convictions according to the Word of God as the “supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and religious opinions should be tried,” again, according to the BFM. Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 During the 1992 presidential campaign pro-life provocateur Randall Terry infamously declared, “A vote for Bill Clinton is to sin against God,” because of Clinton’s positions on abortion and other moral issues. Four days before the election, a church Terry was associated with took out full-page ads in USA Today and The Washington Times with the same warning. Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 UMATILLA (FBW)—“Grieved” that some churches are avoiding controversial moral issues out of concern of being labeled “political,” a Lake County church has rented a billboard in a high traffic area to declare its commitment to life, family and freedom. <br><br> Featuring a large display of the Bible with the message, “First Baptist Church of Umatilla supports LIFE – FAMILY – FREEDOM,” the 11 feet by 26 feet billboard is located on U.S. Highway 441 between Mount Dora and Eustis in Lake County, Pastor Brooks Braswell told Florida Baptist Witness. Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TAMPA (FBW) – Evangelical Christians face an imperfect yet “clear option” in the 2012 presidential election, Southern Baptist theologian R. Albert Mohler Jr. told Florida pastors during an Oct. 16 conference call. Fri, 19 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 GAINESVILLE (FBW)—Three years after Freda Crawford died following a ten-year battle with cancer, Gary Crawford has published a book telling the story of his “pilgrimage of love” in grieving the loss of his wife of 39 years. <BR><BR> The book, Grieving: My Pilgrimage of Love, reveals the emotional and spiritual journey Crawford took in the months following his wife’s death—a journey he admits he continues. Freda Crawford was Gary’s ministry partner for 29 years at Westside Baptist Church in Gainesville, where he has served as pastor since 1981. Three days before her death in 2009, Freda was named “Pastor’s Wife of the Year” by the Florida Baptist Pastors’ Conference. Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 <b>A word from the executive editor</b>: This information concerning the 2012 general election is being provided as a service to our readers. Voter guides are provided for the two major party candidates for president, the two major party candidates for United States Senate from Florida, information about the three Florida Supreme Court justices who are on the ballot for retention, and information about the 11 constitutional amendments voters are being asked to considered on the ballot. Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Michael Lewis, pastor of First Baptist Church in Plant City, will be nominated president-elect of the Florida Baptist Pastors’ Conference next month when the group meets in conjunction with the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting in Orlando.<br><br>Clayton Cloer, pastor of First Baptist Church of Central Florida in Orlando, will nominate Lewis, Cloer said in an Oct. 1 statement to Florida Baptist Witness. Wed, 17 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 President Barack Obama, meet President Thomas Jefferson. <BR><BR> Of course, our president is acquainted with his predecessor. But it seems clear Obama is unfamiliar with one of Jefferson’s most important works. A growing backlash to the Obama Administration’s mandate requiring coverage of abortion-inducing drugs and contraceptives under the Affordable Care Act (“ObamaCare”) would be quickly resolved if the president would follow Jefferson’s convictions about religious freedom. Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 LEESBURG (FBW)—The State Board of Missions voted unanimously Sept. 21 to support two state constitutional amendments seeking to prevent abortion funding and to protect religious freedom of organizations providing social services. Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 My Dad loved being a pastor, definitely not because it was always easy. Indeed, oftentimes it was difficult, especially since I’m certain that church members he pastored over 25 years of ministry oftentimes failed to reciprocate his love. <br><br> Through sins of omission in failing to show love to my Dad or by sins of commission in criticizing and undermining, too many times churches my Dad pastored failed to “esteem very highly in love because of work” (1 Thess. 5:13). Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—The “stark” contrast between presidential candidates Barack Obama and Mitt Romney on key moral concerns means the 2012 election “may be the most important in the history of the Republic,” former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee said Sept. 29 in an interview with Florida Baptist Witness. <br><br> “It is because the contrast between the two candidates have never been more stark,” he said. While that’s often said of every presidential election, Huckabee said a range of positions advocated by Obama—gay marriage, abortion, Israel, wealth redistribution—amounts to “dangerous territory that we’ve never been in before.” Wed, 19 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0900 FLEMING ISLAND (FBW)—As the nation is in the midst of a presidential campaign and America is “changing for good or evil,” evangelical theologian Wayne Grudem challenged pastors “don’t be silent” at a Sept. 14 conference in Jacksonville. <br><br> “Will you sit on the sidelines or will you get into the game?” Grudem asked. “I urge you as pastors, you have a biblical responsibility to encourage people to seek to influence government for good.” Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0900 CLEARWATER (FBW) – Orlando pastor Clayton Cloer will be nominated as president of the Florida Baptist State Convention in November, according to Clearwater pastor Willy Rice, who will nominate him. <BR><BR> “I don’t know of another pastor who has volunteered more time or been more effective at mobilizing Baptists across this state for cooperative missional efforts,” Rice said of Cloer, pastor of First Baptist Church of Central Florida in Orlando, in a news released submitted to Florida Baptist Witness Sept. 18. Fri, 07 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Southern Baptists invest a great deal in developing their quarterbacks—pastors—but these “franchise players” will be “devoured” without effective “offensive lineman”—deacons—who can block and defend, permitting the team—the church—to succeed. <BR><BR> Drawing on football as an analogy, Clayton Cloer, pastor of First Baptist Church of Central Florida in Orlando, led a “Deacon Summit,” to provide training and resources for the church office that he believes is oftentimes neglected. Wed, 05 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0900 Politics is unavoidable these days.<br><br>With the major party political conventions, the seemingly endless onslaught of campaign television commercials, social media pontifications by family and friends, and 24-hour cable newscasts’ breathless reporting on every twist and turn in the campaigns like they are horse races, there are few harbors for those uninterested in election season. Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0900 LAKELAND (FBW)—Although Haley Burkhardt is only 11 years old, her status as a child hasn’t hindered her ability to help other kids—help that has caused others to take notice, including the governor of Florida. <br><br> “I am proof that one person, even an 11-year-old, can make a difference. And so can you,” said Burkhardt at an Aug. 11 back-to-school event at Florida Baptist Children’s Homes’ Lakeland campus. Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0900 For several years, religious freedom advocates have expressed concern that a subtle rhetorical change by the Obama Administration may signal a significant policy change that will have consequences for the practice of freedom of conscience around the world. <br><br> President Barack Obama and other members of his administration now routinely use the phrase “freedom of worship” rather than or more frequently than “freedom of religion” when describing liberty of conscience in religious matters. It’s not a distinction without a difference. Tue, 21 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0900 NORTH MIAMI (FBW) – North Miami church planter Jack Hakimian in recent weeks has been the subject of national and South Florida media attention, resulting in a threatened eviction of his church from a public school and being the object of scorn by gay activists.<br><br> Despite it being a last-minute invitation, Hakimian agreed to speak at a “GLBT Inclusion Forum” Aug. 8 on a panel tilted heavily in support of gay rights views, seeing it as an opportunity to be an “incarnational” Gospel witness to the homosexual community. Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Theologian Wayne Grudem will address six pastors’ conferences, Sept. 10-14, on the role of Christians and politics hosted by Florida Family Policy Council and Florida Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission. Mon, 30 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0900 MOUNT DORA (FBW) – The Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat currently occupied by Bill Nelson doesn’t appear to be much of a contest, but former Congressman Dave Weldon says he is running nonetheless to give voters a “solid social conservative choice.”<br><br>Congressman Connie Mack IV, R-Fort Myers, is the heavy favorite in the Aug. 14 Republican primary that has seen four prominent candidates leave the race (including former interim U.S. Senator George LeMieux who nevertheless remains on the ballot). Two other, lesser-known candidates are also on the ballot. Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0900 Your view of politics—or, more specifically, the role of Christians and Christianity in politics—is probably wrong (at least at times). Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TAMPA (FBW)—An inner-city African American congregation in Tampa and a suburban Anglo church two hours away in Sebring seemingly have little in common, but a pastoral friendship and common Gospel commitment has resulted in a “good Southern Baptist partnership” that helps the needy. Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TAMPA (FBW) – Fred Luter and Barack Obama share historical distinctions as African Americans’ first Southern Baptist Convention and U.S. presidents, respectively, but on the major political-moral issue of gay marriage they are on opposite sides – a disagreement driven by Luter’s commitment to the Bible. Wed, 11 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0900 This newspaper gives generous coverage throughout the year to the various missions causes of Southern Baptists in our state, across the nation and around the world. We are privileged to have the opportunity to tell the story of God’s work among us and in doing so we hope that our readers are better informed and motivated to make a difference for Christ. <BR><BR> But there’s one time each year we have the opportunity to remind Florida Baptists of the importance of the ministry of Florida Baptist Witness and why this entity of our state convention needs your support. Mon, 09 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Tim Maynard, current president of the State Board of Missions, will be nominated as president of the Florida Baptist State Convention in November, according to Bartow layman Marvin Pittman, who will nominate the Jacksonville pastor. <br><br> Maynard’s “statesmanship” while leading the State Board of Missions in recent years is a primary reason he is qualified to be FBSC president, Pittman told Florida Baptist Witness. Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0900 The election of Fred Luter as president of the Southern Baptist Convention last week in New Orleans was truly historic – far beyond the way that word is sometimes casually employed. It was an electric moment on the floor of the convention with messengers who enthusiastically stood, waving their ballots, shouting with joy and some wiping away tears in affirmation of Luter’s election. A historic first that was long overdue, Southern Baptists broke a racial barrier. Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0900 NEW ORLEANS (FBW) – From chairing the committee to submitting and attempting to amend resolutions, to being the subject of a resolution, Florida Baptists played leading roles in New Orleans as the Southern Baptist Convention spoke to significant issues. Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—As Southside Baptist Church looks to October when members will celebrate its 50th anniversary, Pastor Clayton Jerry Glaze said God’s providence could be seen in the Orlando congregation’s existence as it hosted a multi-ethnic worship service on May 27. <br><br> “This service today is an example of God’s providence,” Glaze told about 100 persons from his congregation and those from Korean and Arabic congregations. “Only the Lord knew that He had plans that would bring us together today.” Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—The Florida Baptist Convention has filed two post-trial motions seeking reversal of an “inconsistent” May 17 jury verdict that found it liable for sexual abuse committed by a former church-planting pastor. <br><br>While the jury found the Convention liable for sexual abuse of a minor committed by a church planting-pastor, it also agreed with the Convention’s contention the pastor was not its employee. Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0900 There’s a great debate brewing among Southern Baptists. A recent statement seeks to help settle a matter about which Southern Baptists—and every other kind of Christian—have been contending for many years. The statement was written by leading Southern Baptist thinkers and has many prominent signatories. It addresses an important issue about which every Southern Baptist necessarily must be engaged. Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0900 LAKE CITY (FBW) – LifeWay Christian Stores will no longer sell “The Blind Side” movie after a Florida pastor proposed a resolution to next week’s Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting expressing “dissatisfaction” with its continued sale. Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—A Florida pro-family leader is building an effort to educate and mobilize Christians to vote as never before in the 2012 election, arguing the Sunshine State is the perhaps the most pivotal of the swing states in the presidential contest. <br><br> John Stemberger, president of Florida Family Policy Council, recently held a “voter mobilization rally” in Jacksonville and has established four field offices in Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa and Naples, with plans for offices in seven other cities, to advance his “Ignite Campaign.” Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 It’s difficult to know the most outrageous aspect of President Barack Obama’s May 9 announcement that his “constantly evolving” position on gay marriage had ended in support for the immoral practice. Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – Whether through social media, blogs or in comments to Florida Baptist Witness, Florida Baptist pastors reacted with a mix of sadness and outrage to President Barack Obama’s endorsement of gay marriage. While some explicitly said they could not vote for the president in light of his announcement, many also urged prayer for Obama. Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) - A bill before the Jacksonville City Council granting civil rights protections for sexual orientation and gender identity is generating opposition from most Southern Baptists in the local association, while two pastors have endorsed the measure. Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 NAPLES (FBW)—Charles W. “Chuck” Colson was honored during a May 9 memorial service by his pastor, fellow members and others at First Baptist Church in Naples as “our nation’s greatest defender of the Christian faith” whose “message rings on.” <br><br> “It’s unusual that a church has the privilege and the opportunity that we have tonight,” Pastor Hayes Wicker told the congregation. Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—“God, please give us the world for children.” <BR><BR> That’s the prayer of Jerry Haag, he told Florida Baptist Children’s Homes trustees April 24 in Jacksonville. <BR><BR> “Because there are children out there that need help. And God is going to call and God is going to allow people to be a part of meeting their needs,” he said. “And my prayer is really simple: God, let it be us. Let me have the privilege. God, let us have the privilege of being able to reach out and meet the needs.” Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 STARKE (FBW) – Bradford County citizens dedicated a new Ten Commandments monument at their County Courthouse in Starke May 3 as part of the community’s observance of National Day of Prayer.<br><br> Replicating six-ton, granite monuments erected in recent years in other Florida communities with the sponsorship of businessman Joe Anderson, the Bradford County monument is a privately funded display granted by the County Commission in the government facility’s courtyard in Starke, community leader Harry Hatcher told Florida Baptist Witness May 3. Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 Speaking of some of his pro-life congressional colleagues, liberal U.S. Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), an openly homosexual congressman who announced his retirement from Congress in November, once famously (or infamously) said pro-lifers “believe that life begins at conception and ends at birth.” Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 -0900 NAPLES (FBW) – Before the nation memorializes the life and ministry of Charles W. (“Chuck”) Colson in Washington, D.C., his home congregation – First Baptist Church in Naples – will honor the evangelical leader May 9. Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0900 PANAMA CITY (FBW) – A Panama City pastor has submitted a resolution for consideration at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in New Orleans seeking “unity” in spite of theological differences, especially concerning Calvinism.<br><br>The proposed resolution comes in the midst of heightened discussion in Southern Baptist life about the controversial theological system named for John Calvin, a 16th-century French theologian and a key leader of the Protestant Reformation.<br><br>The goal of the resolution, submitted by Chris Roberts, pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Panama City, is to “reduce some of the tension that currently exists” in the SBC, he told Florida Baptist Witness on April 27. Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—There are 3,500 people groups in the world who have no known witness for Jesus Christ and will not be reached without persistent prayer, Tom Elliff said March 29 at First Baptist Church in Orlando. <BR><BR> “If this does not begin with prayer in your heart and prayer in your church, then it will never go any further than today,” said Elliff, president of the International Mission Board, in a pre-recorded video to the Embrace Conference, co-sponsored by the Florida Baptist Convention. Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0900 Southern Baptists may make history in June—and the Gospel will be served immeasurably if they do.<br><br>Perhaps it will not be as societally transformative as when Jackie Robinson first took to the baseball diamond for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947. Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0900 A recent controversy about President Barack Obama’s Christian faith, the presidential candidacy of Mormon Mitt Romney, and a new television show are reminders that Jesus may not know those who profess to know Him. Contrary to widely held convictions, it’s incumbent upon all true Christians to test our faith and examine the faith claims of others. <br><br> A new ABC television primetime soap, GCB, is an obvious example of false Christian profession. Indeed, the so-called Christians in the program are lampooned for their evil ways while cloaked in churchly activities and pious words. Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—The recently concluded 60-day, regular legislative session was a mixed success, according to Florida Baptist lobbyist Bill Bunkley, both with “high points” of stopping casinos and passing religious liberty legislation, as well as “disappointments” of failing to ban Internet gambling cafés and to pass pro-life legislation. Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – The Jacksonville Baptist Association is seeking the resignation of a member church after the congregation hired a convicted sex-offender to provide pulpit ministry in January.<br><br>The “pastoral staffing decision” of Christ Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Jacksonville has caused the association to initiate conversations with the congregation resulting in a “mutual understanding that it is necessary for CTMBC to leave” the association, according to a March 2 statement by JBA lead missional strategist Rick Wheeler and moderator David Tarkington. Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Darrell Orman was adamantly opposed to a name change of the Southern Baptist Convention. So opposed was Orman, pastor of First Baptist Church in Stuart and a member of the SBC Executive Committee, that he even considered skipping the February EC meeting at which he was to chair the subcommittee that would consider the matter. <br><br> Orman, however, is now among the biggest advocates of what he calls a “brilliant, Solomonic compromise” offering a new “descriptor”—but not new legal name—brought by a task force appointed by SBC President Bryant Wright to study the issue at his personal request. Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – As the Florida Legislature moves closer to its scheduled March 9 adjournment, Florida Baptist lobbyist Bill Bunkley is concerned two important bills are in danger of dying, even while another is now ready for Gov. Rick Scott’s signature. Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – One state representative has advice for Florida Baptist pastors regarding their public policy voice in Tallahassee – financially support Bill Bunkley now before risking the loss of religious liberty later in the absence of his work there.<br><br>“Don’t wait until they come to arrest you for preaching biblical truth,” Rep. Dennis Baxley, R-Ocala, said Feb. 28. Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0900 LAKELAND (FBW)—Jerry Haag, who resigned as president of Florida Baptist Children’s Homes last April to take a senior position at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, was unanimously reelected to the post Feb. 12 in a special called meeting. Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0900 LAKELAND (FBW) – Jerry Haag, who resigned as president of Florida Baptist Children’s Homes last April to take a senior position at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, was unanimously reelected to the post Feb. 12 in a special called meeting.<br><br>Haag previously served as president at the Children’s Home, 2007-2011. Before that, he was president of the South Texas Children’s Home in Beeville, Texas. STCH is an agency of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. Mon, 30 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0900 DUNEDIN (FBW)—Meteorologist-turned-minister Alan Winfield is amazed that other scientists can’t seem to see God’s hand in their work. <BR><BR> Winfield, pastor of missions and education at North Dunedin Baptist Church, fell in love with weather-watching as a young boy in New Jersey—tuning in, hoping snow would cancel school. His passion for meteorology led him to the love of his life when a girl agreed to chase a tornado with him on their first date in Oklahoma. Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0900 The Obama Administration chose the eve of the infamous Roe v. Wade decision to promulgate final rules for its healthcare law that will violate the consciences of millions of Americans—and cost the lives of untold others. Wed, 11 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Although Bill Bunkley will be tracking as many as 500 bills during the new legislative session, killing a bill allowing “mega casinos” in Florida will be his “number one priority,” he told Florida Baptist Witness surveying legislation to be considered during the 60-day session that began Jan. 10. <br><br> Bunkley also provided an update on the new organization he and Florida Baptist pastors are starting, Florida Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, to support his work in Tallahassee. Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0900 This is not an endorsement of Rick Santorum. But when a presidential candidate takes a courageous stand for biblical standards of morality, he or she deserves praise. Fri, 23 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TAMPA (FBW)—Whether traveling the world making business deals or teaching a Sunday school class for his church, international businessman Larry Carr believes, “We can share our witness wherever we are.” <BR><BR> The owner of multiple financial companies based in Tampa and Switzerland, Carr takes his Christian faith whenever his travels take him. Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0900 Is it possible a conservative, Southern Baptist pastor could correctly preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ for years but fail to truly practice the Gospel in his daily life? This apparently nonsensical possibility is not only true in the life of one pastor; it’s a too-common experience of many pastors and other evangelical Christians. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—It’s not Christmas yet, but David Uth is urging Florida Baptist churches to be thinking of ways to demonstrate the reality of the incarnation next Easter by meeting needs in their communities. <br><br> Uth, president of the Florida Baptist State Convention, introduced his “Love is Alive” concept during the recent FBSC annual meeting in Coral Springs—that churches would use the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus for 40 days of service leading up to Easter Sunday, April 8. Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0900 Don’t believe everything you read. In the age of the Internet and email this maxim has never been truer. <br><br> A few weeks ago, I received an email from a friend. The subject line read: “Is this legit? … Pastor Removal from TV.” My friend was skeptical for good reason. I immediately recognized the bogus claims—although revised from earlier iterations—as the notorious FCC Petition Number 2493 that has been around for decades. Indeed, this hoax has been in circulation since 1975—and it won’t die! Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 Advocates for mega casinos were embarrassed—and amused—last week when a gambling mogul made lavish promises to legislators concerning the benefits proposed “destination resorts” will bring Florida. Incredibly, the glitzy talk before a Senate committee with rosy economic scenarios was punctuated with barnyard expletives not fit for civil discourse. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 CORAL SPRINGS (FBW)—The remedy for Christians who have lost their “song” due to the difficulties of life or when the things of God have become “common” is to remember the blessings of God in salvation resulting in renewed worship of God, David Uth told messengers to the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting Nov. 14. Wed, 23 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 CORAL SPRINGS (FBW)—God’s calling of ministers is not for their “bliss,” but for His glory because the “King is worthy,” Bernie Cueto told messengers to the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting. Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 GREEN COVE SPRINGS (FBW) – Pastor Ron Baker has agreed to move prayer meetings previously held at school flagpoles to adjacent properties in an “amicable resolution” with the Clay County School Board late in the day on Nov. 10. Fri, 11 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 Editor's note: Late in the day on Nov. 10, an agreement was reached between Pastor Ron Baker and the Clay County School Board in which Baker agreed to move his prayer times to properties adjacent to the school. An updated story will be posted later.<br><br>GREEN COVE SPRINGS (FBW)—As secularist and Christian legal organizations vie for the attention of the Clay County School Board dealing with a prayer controversy, a Florida Baptist pastor at the center of the dispute says he will continue to offer his weekly morning prayers at the flagpoles of four local schools. <br><br> “Aside from the standpoint that it is our right to do that, it certainly feels like the obligation to pray for those professionals and for God to put a shield of protection over those schools,” Ron Baker told Florida Baptist Witness in a Nov. 10 interview. Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—David Uth, senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Orlando, will be re-nominated president of the Florida Baptist State Convention, Jimmy Scoggins told Florida Baptist Witness on Nov. 4. <BR><BR> In acknowledging his willingness to be re-elected, Uth told the Witness he is seeking possible additions to the State Board of Missions’ recommendations to implement the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence report to be considered during the FBSC annual meeting Nov. 14-15 at Church by the Glades in Coral Springs. Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 A Chinese pastor recently released from imprisonment after 7.5 years expressed thanks for the prayers of fellow saints across the globe. Contrary to the attitude most would have, he was grateful those prayers and efforts seeking his release were not answered sooner! <BR><BR> “I am happy that you and others tried to arrange for my release, but in one way, I am happy that you failed,” Zhang Rongliang, known as Uncle Z, told a Voice of the Martyrs contact in China. The interview was published on VOM’s website, www.persecution.com. Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0900 Could it be that God is beginning a renewal movement of His Holy Spirit among Florida Baptists? <br><br> In recent weeks, nearly 300 Florida Baptists participated in seven ReVision Florida meetings across the state. The meetings were organized by Clayton Cloer, pastor of First Baptist Church of Central Florida in Orlando and leader of the State Board of Missions task force charged with implementing the revival and renewal recommendation of the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence report adopted at last year’s annual meeting of the Florida Baptist State Convention. Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0900 GAINESVILLE (FBW)—For 30 years at Westside Baptist Church in Gainesville, Pastor Gary Crawford and the congregation have shared times of joy and grief, both of which were present Oct. 2 during a special banquet honoring the pastor for his anniversary. <br><br> Part-roast, part-tribute, the two-hour service featured church staff, former staff, friends, ministry colleagues and family taking playful jabs at some of Crawford’s idiosyncrasies and lavishing praise on his stewardship of congregation that has experienced significant growth in three decades. Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Herb Reavis was honored Sept. 25 at North Jacksonville Baptist Church for his 20 years as pastor, but the well-known Southern Baptist preacher is focused on the church’s bright future, he told Florida Baptist Witness in an interview. Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0900 I don’t know any serious Christian who is not of the conviction that spiritual renewal is desperately needed among our churches. Very soon, Florida Baptists will have an opportunity to demonstrate how passionately we hold that conviction through a new effort, “ReVision Florida.” Last month, the State Board of Missions adopted a series of recommendations—some of which go on to the Florida Baptist State Convention for approval at the annual meeting next month in Coral Springs—to implement various recommendations affirmed by Florida Baptists last year in Brandon as part of the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence task force report. Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0900 In the midst of a sluggish economy that may be slipping back into recession—although many Floridians would say it feels like the Great Recession never ended—gambling interests from Malaysia, Las Vegas and closer to home are investing huge sums of money in real estate and lobbying armies to convince policymakers in Tallahassee more gambling is the answer. <br><br> For legislative leaders and the governor—who would profess to be conservative and pro-family—yet more gambling in the Sunshine State shouldn’t be a matter of serious consideration. But, as we saw from the last legislative session in which gambling expansion was only narrowly averted in the very last hours before adjournment, anti-gambling citizens should not assume this latest gambling expansion will be unwelcomed in Tallahassee. Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0900 BLOUNTSTOWN (FBW)—First Baptist Church in Blountstown will experience its “greatest years” in the next 100 years if it is committed to the authority of God and has the audacity of believers to preach the Gospel, Florida Baptist Convention Executive Director-Treasurer John Sullivan preached during an Aug. 28 worship service to observe the congregation’s 100th anniversary. Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Author. Motivational speaker. Former professional athlete. Professional sports executive. Father to 19 children. Marathon runner. <BR><BR> Renaissance man. <BR><BR> Pat Williams, co-founder and senior vice president of the National Basketball Association’s Orlando Magic, laughs at the title, “renaissance man,” but he concedes he’s a man of wide interests, achievements and plans for the future. Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Just as sporting contests often turn on a few key plays, Pat Williams believes seven “big plays” determine whether men can have a successful life. Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0900 LARGO (FBW)—The church parking lot was filled with law enforcement vehicles. More than 50 cops from the Clearwater Police Department, Largo Police Department, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and FBI agents commandeered offices and classrooms. <br><br> And 27 Asians and Hispanics rescued from human trafficking—what activists call “modern-day slavery”—were being fed, given basic hygiene items, and ministered to by church staff and volunteers. Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—A three-day conference to raise awareness about the problem of human trafficking was held last month in Orlando, drawing the involvement of law enforcement, scholars, ministers and activists working on the issue. Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—During a four-day swing through the Sunshine State filled with political events aimed to boost her presidential campaign, Rep. Michele Bachman, R-Minn., paused Aug. 27 in Orlando to plea for support of a pro-family advocacy organization and share her personal Christian pilgrimage, urging Christians to “pour out” their lives for the cause of Christ in their spheres of influence. Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0900 OLD TOWN (FBW) – Although he has made news across the nation for his 6-ton, granite Ten Commandments monument in Dixie County, Joe Anderson says he’s not seeking any publicity nor is he attempting to establish a legacy.<br><br> The sponsor of the display that a federal judge last month ruled unconstitutional also is not backing down from the fight and is confident he will prevail.<br><br>“I will continue putting them up. I’ve just started,” Anderson said in an Aug. 12 interview with Florida Baptist Witness – his first ever such session with the press, having turned down requests from CNN, Associated Press and many other news media outlets. Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0900 There is a problem in state law when members of Florida’s Cabinet interpret it differently, when various police jurisdictions and state attorneys enforce it differently, and when at least two state judges rule contradictorily on the very same statute. <BR><BR> It’s time for the Florida Legislature to clarify the “gray area” in state law that is being exploited across the state to establish Internet “sweepstakes cafes”—thinly disguised gambling parlors that prey on senior citizens and the poor under the guise of selling time for web surfing and/or phone cards. Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0900 You don’t have to be a Florida Gator to love Tim Tebow. Indeed, I’m certain many—like me—have become Gators because they were first fans of Tebow. <BR><BR> Before Tebow’s emergence as a college football phenom, I was a nominal Florida State Seminole fan. After all, it’s hard not love Bobby Bowden (especially as a Florida Baptist), and my daughter is a rabid Seminole. Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0900 CROSS CITY (FBW) – Following an unanimous vote of the Dixie County Commission to appeal a federal judge’s ruling finding unconstitutional a Ten Commandments monument at the County Courthouse, Liberty Counsel filed today a notice of appeal to the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, LC announced in a July 26 news release. Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0900 LUTZ (FBW) – A $4.75 million judgment against Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz was vacated by a judge July 19 after he found two jurors concealed relevant information before a trial last fall about a teen injured on a youth ski trip. Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0900 CROSS CITY (FBW) -- The Dixie County Commission voted unanimously July 21 to appeal a July 15 ruling by a federal judge declaring unconstitutional a six-ton granite Ten Commandments monument at the County Courthouse, according to the attorney representing the county. Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0900 GAINESVILLE (FBW) – “The law and the facts are on our side” permitting a six-ton granite Ten Commandments monument in Dixie County despite an unfavorable court ruling July 15, contends an attorney representing the county. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0900 A rather extraordinary thing happened last month at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Phoenix—messengers overruled a standing committee’s decision. And, it was not on some arcane parliamentary procedure in which the SBC collectively took matters into its own hands. <br><br> Instead, messengers chose to hear a resolution that was passed over by the Resolutions Committee, the body charged with considering and offering statements about key issues on which to put the nation’s largest Protestant denomination on record. Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Just call him the “cancer-slash-heart pastor.” <BR><BR> Randall James recently modified his unofficial moniker after heart surgery successfully repaired a faulty valve that threatened his life—and added one more medical challenge to many he has faced in the last 25 years, including six different types of cancer. Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0900 CAPE CORAL (FBW)—After 25 years as pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral Tom Ascol’s theological convictions have “both constricted and deepened”—narrowing the doctrine he’s willing to die for, while being more ready to give his life for the essential truths of the Christian faith. <br><br> “I don’t know near as much as I thought I did 25 years ago. I’m less sure about more things than I was 25 years ago. But the things that I am sure of I’m more sure of them than I was 25 years ago,” Ascol said in a June 13 interview with Florida Baptist Witness reflecting on the recent celebration of his quarter-century anniversary as pastor of the Southwest Florida congregation. Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0900 The recently concluded Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting “could prove to be the most spiritually significant convention over the last 50 years,” SBC president Bryant Wright told Baptist Press. <br><br> Indeed, in spite of its small number—the lowest number of messengers since World War II—the Phoenix annual meeting was characterized by many significant developments for the denomination. Too numerous to summarize here, a few of the most significant were initial steps to implement the SBC Great Commission Resurgence report adopted last year, a gavel-to-gavel focus on missions in North America and across the globe, commitments to greater ethnic diversity, and challenging and controversial resolutions on immigration, hell, and a new Bible translation. Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0900 PHOENIX (FBW)—Two South Florida ministers—one of whom helped write the statement—believe the Southern Baptist Convention’s resolution “On Immigration and the Gospel,” adopted June 15 at the SBC annual meeting in Phoenix is vital for Gospel ministry. Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0900 An important step has been taken toward implementation of the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence Task Force report adopted by Florida Baptists last year. It remains to be seen if GCR supporters will affirm that step or find it to be movement in the wrong direction. <BR><BR> Introducing a series of preliminary reports from workgroups of the State Board of Missions tasked to make recommendations on implementing the IIGCRTF report, SBOM President Tim Maynard, pastor of Fruit Cove Baptist Church in Jacksonville, said Florida Baptists are entering a “hinge point.” Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Gov. Rick Scott only agreed with half of a recommendation from Bill Bunkley regarding gambling in the $69.1 billion state budget. Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Clayton Cloer, a prominent Florida Baptist pastor, will chair a task force of pastors to investigate the continuation of Bill Bunkley’s advocacy work in Tallahassee, the pastor of First Baptist Church of Central Florida in Orlando confirmed May 19. Wed, 25 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 May 21 will never be the same again. <br><br> This day is not now special because a false prophet’s prediction of the return of Christ was proven (once again) to be wrong. Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – The Florida Bar is recommending dismissal of a complaint against pro-family leader John Stemberger associated with his defense of former Muslim Rifqa Bary, according to a May 19 news release by Stemberger. Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Gov. Rick Scott should reject a $400,000 gambling study in the 2011-2012 state budget and restore funding cuts to programs that help those harmed by gambling, Florida Baptist Convention legislative consultant Bill Bunkley urged in a May 19 letter. Thu, 12 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 The dramatic conclusion to the 2011 legislative session resulted in major victories for pro-life policies and an extraordinary turn of events that killed what seemed to be imminent passage for two pro-gambling measures. <br><br> For detailed coverage of legislative action on bills followed by Florida Baptist Convention legislative consultant Bill Bunkley, see “‘Historic’ session ends with passage of five pro-life bills”. Tue, 10 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—“This is the best job ever,” Gov. Rick Scott said May 3 during the waning days of the annual legislative session in an exclusive interview with Florida Baptist Witness. <BR><BR> In the 20-minute interview in the governor’s office in the Capitol, the first-time public office-holder spoke about the demands of being governor, comparisons of private sector and political office work, and his church attendance practice since taking office in January. Mon, 09 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – The 2011 Florida legislative session was “historic” for its passage of five pro-life measures, while the defeat of gambling bills was a “miracle,” according to Florida Baptist Convention legislative consultant Bill Bunkley. Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—An agreement to reduce corporate taxes for about half of all businesses is a “real positive” that will be a “shot in the arm” for the state’s struggling economy, Gov. Rick Scott said Tuesday in an interview with Florida Baptist Witness. <br><br> In an early morning, 20-minute interview in the governor’s office in the Capitol, Scott also praised the operation that resulted in the death of al Qaeda mastermind Osama bin Laden. Tue, 03 May 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Ted Traylor, pastor of Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola, gave the opening prayer in the Florida House of Representatives May 3. <br><br> Traylor, a former president of the Florida Baptist State Convention, offered the prayer at the invitation of Rep. Clay Ingram, R-Pensacola. Mon, 25 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 A debate is raging in Congress about the federal government’s role in funding Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA). It’s a debate that should be had, the result of which should be the elimination of $300 million in annual government subsidies to America’s leading abortionists. <br><br> Whatever the outcome of the debate about PPFA, there’s other work for Christians to do in standing for the sanctity of human life in our society. Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 Un debate se está librando en el Congreso sobre el papel del gobierno federal en la financiación de Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA). Es un debate que debe tenerse en cuenta, cuyo resultado debería ser la eliminación de $ 300 millones en subvenciones estatales anuales para los abortistas líder en Estados Unidos. Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 BRANDON (FBW)—In spite of the Great Commission Resurgence report that many expected would end jointly funded missionaries with state Baptist conventions, North American Mission Board president Kevin Ezell says “strategically placed mobilizers” in southern states are necessary to accomplish NAMB’s church planting goals in the rest of North America. <BR><BR> Ezell, who was elected NAMB’s third president in September, sat down for a 30-minute, wide-ranging interview with Florida Baptist Witness following a March 20 missionary commissioning service at First Baptist Church in Brandon. Thu, 07 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 BRANDON (FBW)—The commissioning of North American Mission Board missionaries was a family affair for First Baptist Church in Brandon, with three of its former members among the 81 commissioned at the March 20 service hosted by the congregation. Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 WASHINGTON, D.C. (FBW)—Legislating in the U.S. House of Representatives is pretty much the same as in the Florida Legislature. <br><br> “You file bills. You vote. You speak. You attend committee meetings.” Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 It was April Fool’s Day, so I decided it was time for some fun—with the help of Twitter and Facebook. <br><br> In a series of tweets starting at 8:30 a.m. with the post: “BREAKING: I’m taking a leave of absence to pursue the GOP nomination for U.S. Senate in 2012,” I laid out my “credentials” as a candidate for political office, carrying the pro-family, conservative banner. Wed, 06 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Every morning Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary David Wilkins gets a report of the tragedies affecting the more than 18,000 children in the state’s foster care system. Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSE (FBW)—As the Legislature approaches the mid-way point of its annual 60-day legislative session with competing budget plans drawing most of the attention, pro-family legislation is advancing in both chambers, while gambling expansion measures appear to be stalled. <br><br> While “keeping a very close eye” on possible changes, Florida Baptist Convention legislative consultant Bill Bunkley is “encouraged” about the status of pro-family issues at this point, urging Florida Baptists to remain engaged with their legislators communicating their views on vital issues. Thu, 10 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—President Barack Obama’s Feb. 23 order to the U.S. Department of Justice to stop defending the Defense of Marriage Act brought strong denunciations from pro-family leaders in Florida who warn the action may have ominous implications for the state of marriage in America. <br><br> Obama’s decision is a reversal of course for his administration, which has previously defended DOMA in federal courts. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—With an entirely new slate of legislative leaders, as well as a new governor and other members of the Florida Cabinet, Florida Baptist legislative consultant Bill Bunkley is hopeful for a “productive year” as the Florida Legislature convened March 8 for its annual 60-day session. <br><br>In his 16th year representing the Florida Baptist Convention in Tallahassee, the 2011 session could be Bunkley’s last as his contract has been eliminated, effective Sept. 1, as part of budget-cutting efforts (see related story). Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0900 “Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight. Jesus loves the little children of the world.” <br><br> The nursery song “Jesus Loves the Little Children” is a simple, yet profound summary of biblical truth about God’s love for all the peoples of the world, regardless of race and ethnicity. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLHASSEE (FBW)—The 2011 Florida legislative session will be the last for Bill Bunkley as legislative consultant for the Florida Baptist Convention. Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0900 As revolution sweeps through the Arab world, a deeply troubling trend is emerging – the absence of religious liberty as a key element in the transitioning governments and the failure of our government to publicly and vigorously defend this most fundamental of liberties. This reality is especially disturbing in Iraq and Afghanistan, nations liberated at great cost of American lives and treasure. Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0900 EDITOR’S NOTE: With this issue, I mark the completion of ten years as executive editor of Florida Baptist Witness. A great deal has changed in this time—the addition (and loss) of new staff, two significant redesigns of the newspaper’s print edition, and the launch, redesign and rapid expansion of our website (www.goFBW.com), to name a few of the more notable innovations. I believe—and I hope our readers agree—that the Witness has improved both in content and appearance during this era. Fri, 28 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE (FBW)—Six years in the making, the HCSB Study Bible was released by B&H Publishing in October, seeking to produce “the Bible for a visual age,” general editor of the project told Florida Baptist Witness. The design of the HCSB Study Bible was driven by extensive research, including consumer focus groups of study Bible readers and those who don’t use study Bibles asking each what they wanted in a study Bible. The result was a more manageable size volume, using two-column format, color references and a more readable 9-point font text size. Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0900 I wouldn’t blame Gov. Rick Scott if he doesn’t trust the mainstream media (MSM). <br><br> There’s no denying Republican politicians have a high level of mistrust for the news media. They believe—as do no small number of evangelical Christians—the news media takes sides in favor of their opponents, no matter how many times the press insists it is unbiased, seeking only to report the truth. Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—In spite of court rulings overturning Florida’s law banning homosexuals from adopting children, House Speaker Dean Cannon believes Gov. Rick Scott should direct the Department of Children and Families to enforce the law. <br><br> In an exclusive interview with Florida Baptist Witness in the speaker’s Capitol office on Jan. 20, Cannon talked about various policy issues for the upcoming legislative session and his goals for the next two years as the top presiding officer of the Florida House of Representatives. Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0900 Only two days after telling 1,500 folks attending the Inaugural Prayer Breakfast on Jan. 4 that he intended to “lead with virtue, lead with character and do all the right things,” Gov. Rick Scott hinted he is open to doing a very wrong thing—signing on to plans for bringing “destination casinos” to the state as a means of creating jobs, new business development and new revenue for the state budget. Tue, 11 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Before Rick Scott took the oath of office as Florida’s 45th governor on the steps of the Old Capitol in Tallahassee Jan. 4, the new chief executive participated in an interfaith prayer breakfast with evangelical leader Charles Colson as the keynote speaker who called for a “surge of righteousness” in America. Mon, 13 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0900 If it’s Christmastime it must be time to debate the use of the word “Christmas” in advertisements, public displays, and celebrations. The political correctness police are on duty making their annual rounds to be certain the wide diversity of America’s religious and irreligious views are represented during the holidays – as long as those views aren’t Christian. Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – A Southern Baptist Convention-wide “Call to Solemn Assembly” in January has the enthusiastic support of Florida Baptist State Convention president David Uth, who is urging Florida Baptists to participate in the focused effort on prayer, repentance and revival. Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Accepting a mantle of denominational leadership he had previously shunned, David Uth is now willing to serve as Florida Baptist State Convention president because it’s “an opportunity to make name famous.”<br><br>Uth wants Florida Baptist pastors to “join me on a journey that will take us closer to being everything that God had in mind the day He called us and the day He placed us in this state.” Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Anyone who doubts that religious liberty is threatened by the homosexual rights movement need look no further than computer giant Apple and its recent decision to remove the Manhattan Declaration application from its mobile devices. <br><br> As an Apple products enthusiast—MacBook Pro, iPhone and iPad—my favorite computer company’s action on this matter is deeply troubling. But you don’t have to be an Apple user like me to understand the dangerous implications of Steve Jobs’ wrongheaded decision. Wed, 08 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0900 WEST PALM BEACH (FBW)—Palm Beach Atlantic University expects to unveil in April a statue of Jess Moody, honoring his role as the school’s founder and first president, PBAU president Lu Hardin told Florida Baptist Witness last month. Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0900 BRANDON (FBW)—Citing Jesus’ incarnation as the ultimate example, Florida Baptist State Convention president John Cross in his Nov. 8 address urged Florida Baptists to “transition for the mission” in order to reach the Sunshine State and world with the Gospel. <br><br> Throughout his message, the pastor of South Biscayne Church in North Port, who was concluding his second and final term as FBSC president, continually urged messengers to repeat after him the mantra, “transition for the mission.” Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0900 The overwhelming adoption last week of the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence Task Force report by messengers to the Florida Baptist State Convention will undoubtedly result in significant change in Florida Baptist life. While it’s quite unclear precisely what those changes will entail, moving to a 50/50 Cooperative Program distribution with the Southern Baptist Convention—the heart of the report—and implementation of the other recommendations may very well revolutionize the structure of the Florida Baptist Convention. Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—As Olive Baptist Church recognized pastor Ted Traylor for his 20th anniversary as pastor of the Pensacola congregation, immediate past Southern Baptist Convention president Johnny Hunt urged the church to set the “next benchmark” for the future in a special Oct. 31 worship service. From heartfelt expressions of praise from pastoral peers and church members to good natured jabs from Southern Baptist Convention leaders, former staff and leading members of the reigning National Champion University of Alabama Crimson Tide, the special 90-minute service honored Traylor and his wife, Liz, nearly 20 years after they began at Olive. Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—“The outcome will be good.” <BR><BR> That’s the end result John Sullivan predicts about Florida Baptists’ deliberations on the report of the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence Task Force and its eventual implementation. Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0900 It’s not about you. <br><br> Author Rick Warren began his best-selling book, The Purpose-Driven Life, with this joltingly true statement. As widely read and celebrated as Warren’s book was, for far too many evangelical Christians in America this statement seemingly hasn’t penetrated their worldview and actions. Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0900 NORTH PORT (FBW)—As the son of a rural Georgia bi-vocational pastor, John Cross “never dreamed” he would be elected president of the Florida Baptist State Convention—and he almost wasn’t. Despite a razor-thin, 12-vote margin of victory in 2008, Cross’ presidency is poised to result in major change in Florida Baptist life. Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Although feedback has been limited, Florida Baptists’ response has been “overwhelmingly supportive” to the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence Task Force report, Chairman Danny de Armas told Florida Baptist Witness in an Oct. 22 interview. <br><br> The task force released its draft report during last month’s State Board of Missions meeting. De Armas released to the Witness an updated version of its report, which he said differs only in minor ways from the SBOM version. He added it’s not final and the task force reserves the right to make further changes. Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Even in an election year in which many citizens are eager to vote—and indeed many have already done so—a large segment of the public, including many Christians, will once again sit on the sidelines. <br><br> For those who will refuse to vote due to apathy or contempt of the current political situation, my question is simple: since when does the relative merits of the candidates and/or political parties absolve evangelicals from their Christian duty to vote? I cannot imagine how any devoted follower of Christ could conscientiously refuse to vote. Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always “on call,” and subject sometimes to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better. They are generally poorly compensated and live in a fish bowl under constant scrutiny. Tue, 12 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0900 UPDATED: 12:30 p.m.<br>ORLANDO (FBW) – David Uth, senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Orlando, will be nominated president of the Florida Baptist State Convention Troy Gramling told Florida Baptist Witness on Oct. 8. Thu, 07 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Five billion people in the world today don’t know Jesus—and 1.6 billion have never heard of Him and have no or little access to the Gospel. <br><br> When Florida Baptists vote next month on a report from the Imagine If Great Commission Resurgence Task Force (IIGCRTF) the stark reality of these statistics should drive their consideration of the recommendations. Thu, 07 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0900 MIAMI (FBW)—Florida’s law forbidding homosexuals to adopt children was found unconstitutional by the 3rd District Court of Appeal on Sept. 22, and state officials immediately announced they will stop enforcing the ban. Tue, 28 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) -- Pro-family leader and Southern Baptist layman Daniel Webster has been compared to Islamic extremists as "Taliban Dan Webster" in a television commercial by U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, his opponent in the closely contested Orlando-area congressional race. Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0900 LEESBURG (FBW) -- A Florida Baptist State Convention task force is recommending a 50/50 distribution of Cooperative Program funds between the Florida Baptist Convention and Southern Baptist Convention as early as the 2015 budget in a report released Sept. 23 at the State Board of Missions meeting at Lake Yale Baptist Conference Center. Thu, 23 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Whenever this newspaper covers moral and public policy issues, inevitably I hear from some readers (thankfully, a small minority) that such content is unwelcomed and we would be better served focusing on just missions and other ministry topics. Fri, 10 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—When the Florida State Seminoles took the field Sept. 4 in Tallahassee to play the Samford University Bulldogs it was the first time in 35 years they were without Coach Bobby Bowden. <br><br> Although his time at FSU ended prematurely, Bowden still will be “cheering like mad for Florida State” this year, the coaching legend told Florida Baptist Witness in a recent telephone interview. Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Elections matter. <br><br> I know at times it appears nothing really changes. Politicians come and go, but it doesn’t actually matter who is in the White House, Congress, state house, and other public offices. That’s the commonly held view—and there is some basis for such skepticism about the value of exercising our citizenship in the voting booth. Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0900 GAINESVILLE (FBW) – The pastor of Gainesville church planning to burn copies of the Qur'an is seemingly undeterred even though the commander of U.S. Forces in Afghanistan warned the protest could harm U.S. soldiers, according to MyFoxOrlando.com. Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW) – Louisville pastor Kevin Ezell has been nominated president of the North American Mission Board, search chairman Ted Traylor told Florida Baptist Witness Aug. 31.<br><br>The recommendation of Ezell, senior pastor of Highview Baptist Church in Louisville and immediate past president of the Southern Baptist Pastors’ Conference, will be considered Sept. 14 at a special called meeting. Tue, 31 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW) – Louisville pastor Kevin Ezell has been nominated president of the North American Mission Board, search chairman Ted Traylor told Florida Baptist Witness today. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0900 A Gainesville church has made international headlines for its plans to burn copies of the Qur'an on Sept. 11-the ninth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0900 BRANDON (FBW)—Bell Shoals Baptist Church isn’t interested in a union of church and state, but the Brandon congregation does want to engage its community and offer information to its members about those seeking public office. <br><br> For that reason since 1994, Bell Shoals has hosted forums with political candidates, with this year’s event on Aug. 11 drawing 68 aspirants for governor, attorney general, other statewide offices and numerous candidates for local offices, including school board, the state legislature, and U.S. Congress. Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – When the Florida State Seminoles take the field Sept. 4 in Tallahassee to play the Samford University Bulldogs they will be without Coach Bobby Bowden for the first time in 35 years. Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0900 The Roe v. Wade of “gay marriage.” <br><br> That’s what some are calling Vaughn Walker’s outrageous Aug. 4 ruling overturning California’s 2008 voter-approved Proposition 8 protecting traditional marriage, comparing it to the infamous 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion on demand. In Perry v. Schwarzenegger Walker was the first federal judge to find a constitutional “right” to “gay marriage.” Mon, 09 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Witness interviewed the two leading Republican candidates for governor, Rick Scott and Bill McCollum. Numerous candidates for local, state and federal offices are on the Aug. 24 primary election ballot, with early voting beginning Aug. 9. For information about candidates in your area, consult your county supervisor of elections. Mon, 09 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Witness interviewed the two leading Republican candidates for governor, Rick Scott and Bill McCollum. Numerous candidates for local, state and federal offices are on the Aug. 24 primary election ballot, with early voting beginning Aug. 9. For information about candidates in your area, consult your county supervisor of elections. Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Few would dispute the idea that the most significant action of the Southern Baptist Convention in Orlando was the overwhelming adoption of the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force report. Of course, the election of a new SBC president and Executive Committee president, among other Orlando developments, are also vital to Southern Baptists’ future. Wed, 23 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 No, Gov. Charlie Crist is not pro-life. Question answered.<br><br>For me, there really was very little doubt about the answer to the question raised by my May 11, 2010, editorial, “Is Gov. Charlie Crist really pro-life?” In the wake of Crist’s June 11 veto of the pro-life bill HB 1143, that question should now be fully answered for just about everyone else. Sun, 13 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – After spending most of June 12 visiting five events connected to the Orlando Crossover evangelism emphasis, Southern Baptist Convention President Johnny Hunt said addressing people’s physical needs provide an avenue of sharing the Gospel – something that churches should be more intentional about in their own communities. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 A “Great Commission Resurgence” in the Southern Baptist Convention is the “one thing” that has been the focus his presidency, Johnny Hunt said in an interview reflecting on his two years as the SBC’s top elected leader. <br><br> Although Hunt hopes and believes SBC messengers in Orlando will affirm the report of the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force, the outcome of the vote is less important than is a renewed commitment among Southern Baptists to fulfilling Jesus’ missionary mandate. Sat, 12 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Before there was a Great Commission Resurgence Task Force, SBC President Johnny Hunt and GCRTF Chairman Ronnie Floyd began to lead their churches to increase Coop­erative Program giving and hope to be examples to other churches to do the same. Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Dozens of Florida women held a news conference in Tallahassee today to urge Gov. Charlie Crist to sign HB 1143, a health care bill with pro-life provisions awaiting the governor's action, according to a news release from the group. Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 There's been much discussion in Southern Baptist life in the last year or so about a Great Commission Resurgence-especially the desire of many to see Southern Baptist Convention entities, state Baptist convention entities, and local associations be more effective in fulfilling our Lord’s missionary mandate in Matt. 28:18-20. Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE (FBW) – Before there was a Great Commission Resurgence Task Force, SBC President Johnny Hunt and GCRTF Chairman Ronnie Floyd began to lead their churches to increase Cooperative Program giving and hope to be examples to other churches to do the same. <br><br> Hunt and Floyd spoke of their views on CP – Southern Baptists’ unified funding mechanism for state, national and international missions – in separate interviews with Florida Baptist Witness in recent weeks. Wed, 02 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Updated, 2:00 p.m., June 2 <br><br>ROGERS, Ark. (FBW) – The Great Commission Resurgence Task Force sought to "aim high, give the big vision" in its report, recognizing Southern Baptist Convention entities would be required to evaluate and implement its recommendations, according to GCRTF Chairman Ronnie Floyd. Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 LEESBURG (FBW) – Saying "we can do better as a Convention" because the "eternal destiny of millions" are at stake, Danny de Armas, chairman of the Imagine If Great Commission Task Force, gave a "status update" on the group's work to the State Board of Missions on May 28. Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 LEESBURG (FBW) – The chairman of the Imagine If Great Commission Task Force (IIGCTF) told the State Board of Missions May 28 he is “discouraged” by “tremendous opposition” to his group’s work from unnamed SBOM members and Florida Baptist Convention staff. Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0900 LEESBURG (FBW) – The experience of serving on the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force has been “life changing,” Ted Traylor told the State Board of Missions on May 28, while urging support for the group’s report at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Orlando. Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—While a conservative “backlash” in America may be in the making, revolting against government spending and high taxes, FOX News commentator Fred Barnes told a pro-family group May 15 the nation cannot prosper without cultural and moral reform.<BR><BR> Barnes was the keynote speaker at the annual awards banquet for Florida Family Policy Council, a pro-family group. Led by Orlando attorney John Stemberger, FFPC was instrumental in the passage of the Florida marriage amendment in 2008. Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ROGERS, Ark. (FBW)—Although Ronnie Floyd believes the final report of the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force will be approved next month at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Orlando, the GCRTF chairman grieves at the possibility it will not. Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Frank Page, immediate past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, will be nominated as the next president of the SBC Executive Committee, search team chairman Randall James announced today in a letter to EC trustees and staff.<br><br>James, assistant pastor of First Baptist Church in Orlando and chairman of the EC trustees, said Page is the unanimous choice of the 6-member search committee, after its 7-month search that included 16 recommendations, of which six were finalists before one candidate removed himself from consideration. Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—The Great Commission Resurgence Task Force released on May 3 its final report, including seven recommendations framed as motions to be presented for consideration at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Orlando on June 15. <br><br> The 27-page report includes 10 pages of “challenges” directed at individual Southern Baptists and their families, as well as churches and pastors, associations, state conventions, SBC entities and “all Southern Baptist leaders.” Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 The most important pro-life public policy gains in Florida history are in jeopardy because Gov. Charlie Crist, who says he’s “pro-life,” has “very serious concerns” about the legislation recently adopted by the Florida Legislature. Wed, 05 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Pro-family groups are rallying their forces to urge Gov. Charlie Crist to sign a bill that contains two pro-life provisions, while one news outlet reports the governor has “very serious concerns,” pointing to a possible veto. Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – Vance Pitman, pastor of Hope Baptist Church in Las Vegas, Nev., will be nominated president of the Southern Baptist Pastors’ Conference next month in Orlando, Mac Brunson, pastor of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville, told Florida Baptist Witness today. Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 SPRINGDALE, Ark. (FBW)—The Great Commission Resurgence Task Force released today its final report, which will be considered by messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention in Orlando during the afternoon session on June 15 during the annual meeting.<br><br> A story on the final report will be posted later today. Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – The Great Commission Resurgence Task Force released today its final report, including seven recommendations framed as motions to be presented for consideration at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Orlando on June 15. Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 GRACEVILLE (FBW)—On the brink of closure when Tom Kinchen was called in 1990 to lead The Baptist College of Florida, the sixth president says the 20 years since have been marked with building, sometimes “against the stream.” <BR><BR> Next month Kinchen will mark the 20th anniversary of his election as president of Florida Baptists’ only institution of higher education, having long ago outlasted the trustees’ challenge to reverse the school’s fortunes or close it down in 18 months. Wed, 28 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – A listing of “priorities” for the Florida Baptist Convention was released today by the Imagine If Great Commission Task Force on the group’s website. Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE (FBW) – The Great Commission Resurgence Task Force has finished its final report, which it adopted unanimously, according to a statement issued by Chairman Ronnie Floyd after the group held its final meeting April 26 in Nashville. Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—The Florida Legislature has easily approved major gambling expansion legislation, sending the bill to the governor, after limited debate in the Senate and House in successive weeks. <br><br> Meanwhile, several bills of interest to pro-family leaders may not become law as the Legislature moves towards its April 30 scheduled adjournment of the session. Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 A Sarasota “doctor” had his medical license revoked by the Florida Board of Medicine this month for aborting the “wrong fetus” in 2006. <br><br> If Dr. Matthew J. Kachinas had successfully aborted the male, Down syndrome twin, rather than the female, “healthy” twin, he would still be murdering children with the state’s blessing. Sun, 25 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW) – Ted Traylor, pastor of Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola, will be nominated president of the Southern Baptist Convention at the June 15-16 annual meeting in Orlando, fellow pastor Ed Litton told Florida Baptist Witness April 22. Fri, 23 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Just like when he first entered politics in 1980 because there was a problem to be solved, former Florida House speaker and state senator Daniel Webster said he sees a problem in Washington that can be solved only by running for office. Tue, 20 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – The Florida House of Representatives expedited consideration and approval of a $1 billion gambling compact with the Seminole Indian Tribe on April 19, sending the bill to Gov. Charlie Crist for his signature. Thu, 15 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) - The Florida Senate today overwhelmingly approved with little debate a gambling bill whose centerpiece is an agreement with the Seminole Indian Tribe promising $1 billion to the state over the next five years in exchange for Las Vegas slot machines and certain table games at five of the tribe’s seven casinos. Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE (FBW)—As Southern Baptists debate a Feb. 22 preliminary report of its Great Commission Resurgence Task Force, little attention is being paid to what Chairman Ronnie Floyd calls Southern Baptists’ “number one need”—a “return to God in deep repentance” and to “experience a fresh wave of Spirit.” Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 As strange as it may seem, sometimes news writing can be a spiritually convicting experience. <br><br> This issue of Florida Baptist Witness features a special report on the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force “progress report.” The package of articles is a collaborative effort with the Southern Baptist TEXAN and Illinois Baptist newspapers, offering an in-depth analysis of the initial recommendations of the GCRTF released in February. Florida Baptists will benefit greatly from carefully considering these articles as the GCRTF is expected to release its final report May 3. Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – The Florida House Select Committee on Seminole Indian Compact Review approved Thursday on a 15-3 vote the gambling compact legislation announced by Gov. Charlie Crist and legislative leaders April 6.<br><br>Earlier in the day, the Florida Senate considered related legislation, undertaking initial debate, with a vote expected on April 13. <br><br> The legislation authorizes a compact with the Seminole Indian Tribe, which promises $1 billion in general revenues to the state over the next five years and provides certain benefits to state’s pari-mutuel industry. Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – With the Florida Senate and a House of Representatives committee poised to approve on Thursday a new gambling expansion deal, Florida Baptist Convention legislative consultant Bill Bunkley said "now is the time" for Florida Baptists to speak. Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 INVERNESS (FBW)—Islam has a strategy to take-over the world, but outwitted and under-financed Christians can coun­t­er that growing, successful plan with love, a missions professor said Feb. 25. <br><br> “I believe it’s extremely important that we understand what Islam is doing in the world,” said William Wagner, senior professor of missions at Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Florida Baptist Convention Legislative Consultant Bill Bunkley continues to express concern about gambling expansion during the current legislative session, while he continues to monitor and speak to other legislation of concern to Florida Baptists. <br><br> Summarizing recent gambling activity, Bunkley told Florida Baptist Witness March 20, the fact that no public action has taken place on gambling legislation in the last week is only the “proverbial calm before the big storm as the rumor mill is churning with reports of House and Senate negotiators conducting serious talks with the Seminole Tribe, with the pari-mutuels along for the ride.” Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—The Alliance Defense Fund is recruiting pastors willing to pick a fight with the Internal Revenue Service in order to overturn a 55-year-old law it believes is resulting in unconstitutional pulpit “censorship.” <br><br> Erik Stanley, senior legal counsel with ADF—an evangelical legal organization, spoke at a March 4 briefing for about 200 pastors, seeking ministers to participate in “Pulpit Freedom Sunday,” scheduled this year for Sept. 26. Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 NORTH PORT (FBW) – Troy Gramling, lead pastor of Flamingo Road Church in Cooper City, will be nominated president of the Southern Baptist Pastors' Conference during its June meeting in Orlando, John Cross, pastor of South Biscayne Church in North Port, announced March 18.<br><br>Cross told Florida Baptist Witness he will nominate Gramling because he embodies the Great Commission Resurgence "we're praying and believing God for … in our churches and convention." Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Bryant Wright, senior pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, Ga., will be nominated for president of the Southern Baptist Convention during the June SBC annual meeting in Orlando, David Uth, pastor of First Baptist Church in Orlando, announced March 11. <br><br> Wright is the first announced candidate for president in 2010. Current SBC President Johnny Hunt, pastor of First Baptist Church in Woodstock, Ga., is ineligible for re-election. Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Standing against abortion funding has been the "single largest point of bipartisan opposition" to President Barack Obama's health care reform bill, according to pro-family leader Tony Perkins. Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Our problem-solver-in-chief who occupies the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee rebuked ideological opponents of all sorts in his March 2 State of the State Address, arguing that Florida's challenges will not be fixed by public officials adhering to dogmatic principles but by those who are committed to "realism." Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE (FBW)—The Great Commission Resurgence Task Force hopes to spark a "missional impact movement," not a denominational reorganization, Ronnie Floyd said in a wide-ranging interview with state Baptist newspaper editors Feb. 23. Floyd sat down for the hour-long interview the morning after presenting a "progress report" on the work of the GCRTF to the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee on Feb. 22. The interview was with the editors of Illinois Baptist, Southern Baptist TEXAN, Baptist Messenger in Oklahoma, and Florida Baptist Witness. Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—A projected $3 billion budget deficit will dominate this year's state legislative session – increasing the threat that a gambling expansion for the Sunshine State may be in the making, according to Florida Baptist Convention Legislative Consultant Bill Bunkley. Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0900 As legislators consider gambling expansion to balance Florida's budget in tough times, they ought to keep in mind a simple mathematical formula: 3-1. <br><br> That's not the odds that lawmakers will approve or vote down gambling expansion. Three-to-one is the ratio of government spending needed to address the social ills created by every additional dollar of casino gambling revenue. Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE (FBW) – When Southern Baptists meet in Orlando in June they will be faced with the choice of retreating to the past, preserving the present, or rising to a future of advancing the Gospel to the nations, Great Commission Resurgence Task Force Chairman Ronnie Floyd told the SBC Executive Committee meeting Feb. 22 in Nashville. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0900 No matter the primary subject matter-and in spite of other very important business-the Florida Baptist State Board of Missions meeting last week was dominated from start to finish by the tremendous needs of the people of Haiti. Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—After "great, great, great discussion" studying a possible merger of Southern Baptists' two mission boards, the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force has concluded it will not recommend a merger, Chairman Ronnie Floyd said Feb. 1 at First Baptist Church in Jacksonville. Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0900 COLUMBUS, Ohio (FBW)—The Ohio teen convert to Christianity who fled to Orlando in July in fear of her Muslim parents will be permitted to stay in foster care. News of the settlement was announced Jan. 19. Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Leaders of the three search committees currently seeking new presidents for key Southern Baptist Convention entities aren't willing to say much about their work - except they all desire prayer from Southern Baptists.<br><br> SBC President Johnny Hunt cited the presidential searches for the Executive Committee, North American Mission Board and International Mission Board as one of the needs Southern Baptists should give focus to in calling for a Jan. 31 denomination-wide Day of Prayer for the SBC. Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—In a meeting that lasted barely more than 10 minutes on Jan. 14, a committee of the Florida House of Representatives unanimously rejected a gambling compact between Gov. Charlie Christ and the Seminole Tribe, while overwhelmingly passing a bill to benefit the state’s pari-mutuels industry. Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0900 Has it ever been clearer just how desperately America needs God? Do Southern Baptists understand just how urgently we need God to move in our denomination? <br><br> Thankfully, godly Southern Baptist leaders have recognized our national and denominational need, prompting Southern Baptist Convention president Johnny Hunt to declare Jan. 31, 2010, a Day of Prayer, urging all Southern Baptists to set aside this day for a time of concerted, focused prayer for our nation and denomination. Wed, 25 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Is there anything which the government would compel you to do for which you believe it’s permissible to disobey? Even more, is there anything the state would require you to practice for which you would be obligated to resist? Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 I’m planning to write more thoroughly on this matter in my editorial for next week, but I wanted to take the occasion of my blog to alert readers to an important manifesto released today at a National Press Club news conference in Washington, D.C. Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Pastors should not be afraid to make the “big ask” of their church members, challenging them to be faithful in attendance, giving, encouraging and willing to do whatever it takes to reach people for Christ, David Hughes preached Nov. 10 during the annual sermon at the Florida Baptist State Convention in Pensacola. <br><br> “I’ve discovered this through Scripture that as a pastor, especially a senior pastor, it is part of my calling before God to ask His people for big things, to go for the big ask from time to time,” said Hughes, pastor of Church by the Glades in Coral Springs. Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 With the U.S. Senate possibly set to begin debating later this week various proposals for health care reform, the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission has released a statement worthy of the consideration of Southern Baptists and other citizens concerned about ethically sound health care reform. <br><br> The ERLC is the moral concerns and public policy agency of the Southern Baptist Convention with offices in Nashville and in Washington, D.C., on Capitol Hill. The Southern Baptist Convention has assigned the ERLC responsibility to speak to Southern Baptists about moral, ethical and religious liberty matters, bringing biblical insight to these matters, as well as to speak for Southern Baptists to public policy decision makers in order to make them aware of our concerns. Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 The Tampa Tribune is reporting today concern from local evangelical leaders about a proposed ordinance under consideration by the Tampa City Council to include transgendered individuals in the city’s anti-discrimination laws. Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 In a very real sense, one person decided the outcome of the pivotal vote at the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting in Pensacola last week establishing an “Imagine If … Great Commission Task Force”: John Sullivan. Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW) -- The Florida Baptist State Convention approved overwhelmingly on Nov. 10 a motion authorizing its president to appoint an “Imagine If ... Great Commission Task Force” to study how Florida Baptists “can work more effectively and more efficiently together in following Christ in fulfilling the Great Commission.” Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW) — Israel's Caleb who was ready — even at age 85 — to claim his land inheritance should be an example Florida Baptists emulate as they consider the challenge of reaching their state for Christ, John Cross told messengers to the Florida Baptist State Convention on Nov. 9. Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 I'm delighted to welcome you to the new and improved Florida Baptist Witness website! There's plenty that's new here - starting with the new logo - but there's much, much more. Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Florida Baptists should follow the model of the Southern Baptist Convention and empower their president to appoint a task force to study how the Florida Baptist State Convention can be more effective in fulfilling the Great Commission, David Uth told Florida Baptist Witness in a Nov. 5 e-mail interview. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 “It certainly does not end today.”<br> <br> In that simple sentence uttered by President Barack Obama at an Oct. 28 White House reception celebrating his signing into law of the “Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act,” is a portend of the dangerous public policy agenda of the homosexual lobby—and our president’s promise to seek advancement of that program. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Florida Baptist State Convention president John Cross will be nominated for a second term, Brandon minister Bob Anderson told Florida Baptist Witness Nov. 2. Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Florida Baptists may have at least two different motions to consider to create a GCR-type task force to study how the state convention can be more effective in fulfilling the Great Commission when they meet Nov. 9-10 in annual meeting in Pensacola. Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Florida Baptist State Convention president John Cross will be nominated for a second term, Brandon minister Bob Anderson told Florida Baptist Witness Nov. 2. Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Florida Baptists may have at least two different motions to consider to create a GCR-type task force to study how the state convention can be more effective in fulfilling the Great Commission when they meet Nov. 9-10 in annual meeting in Pensacola. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 As Ohio judicial and child protective services accept responsibility for the welfare of Rifqa Bary—the 17-year-old runaway who fled to Orlando in July in fear of her life from her Muslim parents because of her conversion to Christianity—I pray they will consider the case of Gilda Ghanipour. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PENSACOLA (FBW)—Ted Traylor “did some serious thinking” about the prospect of leading the North American Mission Board presidential search committee while also serving on the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force (GCRTF), said the pastor of Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola in an Oct. 23 interview with Florida Baptist Witness. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—The speaker of the Florida House of Representatives has called on the National Indian Gaming Commission to force the Seminole Indian Tribe to stop operating illegal games at its seven casinos in Florida. Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 NORTH PORT (FBW)—Florida Baptists will be asked at their state convention annual meeting in Pensacola Nov. 9-10 to authorize an “imagine if dream team” to study how to do the Great Com­mission more effectively in the Sunshine State, according to Florida Baptist State Convention President John Cross. Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Orlando Circuit Judge Daniel Dawson released ex-Muslim runaway Rifqa Bary to Ohio authorities Oct. 23 after receiving proof of her immigration status and being satisfied that she will be able to continue her educational program, according to various news accounts. Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 NAPLES (FBW)—In what he hopes will be a “game-changer in terms of the Cooperative Program and our whole relationship with missions,” Hayes Wicker has led First Baptist Church in Naples to launch the “Great Commission Connection.” Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSON, Tenn. (FBW)—Although denominations are not clearly mandated by Scripture and today face significant challenges, they nevertheless have a future—but only as servants of local churches on mission with God, Southern Baptist leader Ed Stetzer said Oct. 6 at Union University in Jackson, Tenn. Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSON, Tenn. (FBW)—With “seismic changes” creating an “unprecedented” historical moment for the Southern Baptist Convention, Danny Akin is not optimistic about the future of the nation’s largest Protestant denomination but he is “hopeful”—if Southern Baptists will fully commit themselves to the Lord­ship of Christ and His Great Commission. Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – The speaker of the Florida House of Representatives has called on the National Indian Gaming Commission to force the Seminole Indian Tribe to stop operating illegal games at its seven casinos in Florida.<br><br>In an Oct. 21 letter to Chairman George Skibine, Rep. Larry Cretul, R-Ocala, said in spite of “good faith” negotiations by the State of Florida with the Seminoles, “It is my opinion we have reached an impasse that can only be remedied by your intervention.” Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TAMPA (FBW)—When it appeared a “disaster” was in the making in the wake of the revelation of his brief drug use, New York Yankees pitcher Andy Pettitte instead found—once again—God can be depended upon. Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE, Tenn. (FBW)—Morris Chapman, president and chief executive officer of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Executive Committee, announced Sept. 21 plans to retire, effective Sept. 30, 2010. Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always “on call,” and subject sometimes to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better. They are generally poorly compensated and live in a fish bowl under constant scrutiny. And those are just Mondays! Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PALM BEACH GARDENS (FBW)—Like the biblical character Abel, though Southern Baptist preacher Adrian Rogers is dead, “he still speaks,” Hayes Wicker told a gathering in Palm Beach Gardens Sept. 24 to seek support to launch the “Adrian Rogers Legacy Library.” Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—President Barack Obama and Democratic leaders of Congress are advocating healthcare reform that will result in rationing of care, making them guilty of the same ideology that fueled the Nazi Holocaust, Richard Land told the Christian Coalition of Florida at a Sept. 26 banquet in Orlando. Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ROGERS, Ark. (FBW)—Since the Southern Baptist Convention overwhelmingly endorsed the need for a Great Commission Resurgence Task Force, Ronnie Floyd is urging presidential search committees for three SBC entities to be “very prayerful and watchful” of his group’s work. Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSON, Tenn. (FBW)—With “seismic changes” creating an “unprecedented” historical moment for the Southern Baptist Convention, Danny Akin is not optimistic about the future of the nation’s largest Protestant denomination but he is “hopeful”—if Southern Baptists will fully commit themselves to the Lordship of Christ and His Great Commission. Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Missionary appointment services are always inspiring. <br><br> As I witnessed the International Mission Board ceremony at First Baptist Church in Jacksonville Sept. 16, I was moved by the missionaries’ powerful testimonies, recognizing that many of the 60 new missionaries are going to regions of the world where physical danger to those bearing the Gospel witness is not theoretical. In fact, one couple appointed is going to an area so dangerous they could not even publicly participate in the service. Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—A Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigation has found no “credible” evidence that Christian convert Rifqa Bary is endangered by her Muslim parents she fled in July in fear of her life. Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 WOODSTOCK, Ga. (FBW)—In the midst of contentious debates in American society about “big discussions,” former Washington Redskins Head Coach Joe Gibbs hopes people will begin to ask, “I wonder what God thinks about this?” Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ROGERS, Ark. (FBW)—Since the Southern Baptist Convention overwhelmingly endorsed the need for a Great Commission Resurgence Task Force, Ronnie Floyd is urging presidential search committees for three SBC entities to be “very prayerful and watchful” of his group’s work. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Citing "extensive evidence" of dangerous ideology promoted by her family's mosque, the attorney for the Ohio teen who fled to Florida for fear of her life has filed an "Investigation and Intelligence Memorandum" arguing Rifqa Bary should be declared a dependent of the State of Florida. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 It’s interesting how one year can change a man’s view of his ability to evaluate the moral status of human life. <br><br> A year ago, candidate for president Barack Obama told California pastor Rick Warren it was “above my pay grade” to determine at what point a baby gets “human rights.” Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—A new gambling compact with the Seminole Indian Tribe was announced Aug. 31, with Gov. Charlie Crist estimating the agreement will result in $6.8 billion over 20 years for the State of Florida. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 INVERNESS (FBW)—More than 1,000 members and guests celebrated the first worship service of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Inverness Aug. 30 with pastor Greg Kell urging the congregation to make the facility a place of prayer. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 WOODSTOCK, Ga. (FBW) - In the midst of contentious debates in American society about "big discussions," former Washington Redskins Head Coach Joe Gibbs hopes people will begin to ask, "I wonder what God thinks about this?" Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Editor’s note: This editorial was originally published Sept. 27, 2001. It is re-published today in honor of Patriot Remembrance Day on this eighth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America, Sept. 11, 2001. Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ATLANTA (FBW)—The Great Commission Resurgence Task Force met Aug. 11-12 in Atlanta, burdened by the “absolutely enormous” and “extremely challenging” responsibility placed upon it by the Southern Baptist Convention, Chairman Ronnie Floyd said Aug. 12 at a news conference after the group’s first meetings concluded. Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0900 LUTZ (FBW)—Although he’s fighting to be the starting quarterback of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Luke McCown believes God will ultimately decide the matter—just as He has guided the steps of the NFL six-year veteran since he fully committed to God as a ninth-grader. Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Although much attention has been given to efforts to reform health care in America in various media, few citizens seem to be aware of the peril current proposals before the United States Congress pose to the protection of the sanctity of human life—and especially the possibility of taxpayer funded abortion on demand and rationed care that will result in the denial of care to the vulnerable in our society. <br><br> Thankfully, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission with its Washington, D.C., office is standing watch for Southern Baptists on this vital issue. The ERLC calls the bill “dangerous” and urges Southern Baptists to express their concerns to their elected officials. Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Southern Baptists spend per capita 33 times more for missions in relatively gospel-saturated North America than they do for the comparatively unreached rest of the world, a recent analysis asserts. Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PANAMA CITY BEACH (FBW)—A “Great Commission Resurgence”—the much-talked about movement in the months leading up to the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting last month in Louisville—is no mere theory for Johnny Hunt. The SBC president is attempting to embody GCR in his personal life, putting his own finances and his church’s money behind a renaissance of commitment to Jesus’ missionary mandate. Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 The Seminole Indian Tribe and related businesses made $720,000 in political contributions in 2008—more than their giving in the previous 10 years combined and three times as much as that given in the 2006 election cycle. <br><br> Is it merely coincidental the previously gambling-expansion-skeptical Florida House of Representatives saw things differently during the 2009 legislative session and approved a gambling compact with the Seminoles resulting in the largest expansion of gambling in the history of the state? Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TAMPA (FBW)—In 1859, Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities was published, London’s Big Ben rang for the first time, Origin of Species by Charles Darwin was published—and “God began to do a work in Tampa” with the founding of First Baptist Church, pastor Bob Block told the congregation July 22 during its first of several special services commemorating the sesquicentennial of the church. Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PANAMA CITY BEACH (FBW)—SBC President Johnny Hunt believes Executive Committee trustees need to give “greater clarity” about the controversial resignation of Clark Logan when the body meets in September. Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Editor’s note: With the Gators beginning practice this week and ready to defend their national championship, Florida Baptist Witness is re-posting this profile of Tim Tebow, Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback and longtime member of First Baptist Church in Jacksonville. The article was originally published Aug. 30, 2007.<br> <br> GAINESVILLE (FBW)—Holding the most high profile position on the defending National Championship team—making him the biggest Big Man on Campus at a football-crazed school—could easily go to the head of any college sophomore, but Tim Tebow says that football is not even the third most important thing in his life. Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – Southern Baptists spend per capita 33 times more for missions in relatively gospel-saturated North America than they do for the comparatively unreached rest of the world, a recent analysis asserts. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FBW)—Southern Baptist Convention messengers June 23 overwhelmingly approved a motion authorizing their president, Johnny Hunt, to appoint a task force to study how Southern Baptists can work “more faithfully and effectively together in serving Christ through the Great Commission.” Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 “Wow!” <br><br> That was the reaction of longtime SBC chief parliamentarian Barry McCarty June 23 when the sea of ballots were raised by Southern Baptist Convention messengers overwhelmingly in support of a motion creating a task force to study how Southern Baptists can “work more faithfully and effectively together in serving Christ through the Great Commission.” Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 NASHVILLE (FBW)—Clark Logan, who abruptly resigned July 1 as vice president of business and finance of the SBC Executive Committee, released a statement desiring to "make clear" he has not been "involved in, nor have I been accused of being involved in, any immoral or unethical action." Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PANAMA CITY (FBW)—Southern Baptist Convention President Johnny Hunt believes Morris Chapman, president of the SBC Executive Committee, should be "more forthcoming" about the reasons for the resignation of former EC vice president Clark Logan. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—SBC Executive Committee president Morris Chapman was authorized by trustee officers to remove Clark Logan as vice president for business and finance after a five-minute June 30 conference call, according to EC chairman Randall James. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PANAMA CITY BEACH (FBW) – SBC President Johnny Hunt believes Executive Committee trustees need to give “greater clarity” about the controversial resignation of Clark Logan when the body meets in September. Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0900 PANAMA CITY BEACH (FBW)—A “Great Commission Resurgence”—the much-talked about movement in the months leading up to the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting last month in Louisville—is no mere theory for Johnny Hunt. The SBC president is attempting to embody GCR in his personal life, putting his own finances and his church’s money behind a renaissance of commitment to Jesus’ missionary mandate. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Me running—it’s not a pretty sight! Believe me, I’m not delusional enough to think otherwise. <br><br> Nevertheless, I hope those of you who are avid runners—or walkers—who live in Northeast Florida and are concerned about saving unborn babies and ministering to their mothers will join me Sept. 5 in Jacksonville for the inaugural “Run For Their Lives 5K.” Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0900 To no one’s surprise, Gov. Charlie Crist signed SB 788, the massive expansion of gambling passed by the Legislature on the last day of its extended session in May. The governor is now empowered to negotiate a deal with the Seminole Indian Tribe by Aug. 31, 2009, which will have to be ratified by the Legislature. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0900 LOUISVILLE (FBW)—After straying from the vision of James Petigru Boyce for most of the 20th century, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary is “once again Boyce’s seminary” 150 years after it began, historian Gregory A. Wills concludes in a new history of the school released this month. Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0900 LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FBW)-Southern Baptist Convention messengers June 23 overwhelmingly approved a motion authorizing their president, Johnny Hunt, to appoint a task force to study how Southern Baptists can work “more faithfully and effectively together in serving Christ through the Great Commission.” Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0900 “Wow!” <br><br> That was the reaction of longtime SBC chief parliamentarian Barry McCarty June 23 when the sea of ballots were raised by Southern Baptist Convention messengers overwhelmingly in support of a motion creating a task force to study how Southern Baptists can “work more faithfully and effectively together in serving Christ through the Great Commission.”</p> Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0900 HIALEAH (FBW)—The State Board of Missions voted unanimously May 29 to create a task force to study the Florida Baptist Convention in response to the growing discussion in Southern Baptist life about a “Great Commission Resurgence.” Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0900 GRACEVILLE (FBW)—The Baptist College of Florida trustees on May 22 dedicated two new buildings, broke ground for a new world missions center and approved a study of the college prompted by a “Great Commission Resurgence” declaration to be considered at the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting next month. Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—An expansion of gambling pro-family leaders deem “predatory” easily passed May 8 as the Florida Legislature concluded its extended annual session. Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 KEYSTONE HEIGHTS (FBW)—The Southern Baptist Convention is a ship “adrift” and so low in the water that it “probably” needs to rid itself of some unnecessary “cargo” to “float and be healthy and strong again,” SBC president Johnny Hunt said in a May 13 interview with Florida Baptist Witness Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Try looking in the mirror—you might just see one of the persons most responsible for the fact that the Sunshine State is about to experience a gambling expansion of historical proportions. <br><br> If you have the courage, read on to see why. Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—Daniel Webster, former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives and majority leader of the Florida Senate, was honored May 9 for his 28-year legislative career marked by a strong Christian testimony and pro-family policies with a testimonial dinner organized by Florida Christian Coalition. Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—As of May 4, 100 Floridians had signed “Toward a Great Commission Resurgence,” a declaration officially released April 28 by Southern Baptist Convention President Johnny Hunt. Nationally, more than 1500 Southern Baptists have endorsed the statement. Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a bill protecting homosexuals and transgendered individuals from so-called “hate crimes.” With action on the bill remaining in the U.S. Senate, the president has indicated his intention to sign the bill. Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 WAKE FOREST, N.C. (FBW)—Although the declaration, “Toward a Great Commission Resurgence,” is now the “property” of Southern Baptist Convention president Johnny Hunt, the statement with more than 1500 endorsers after one week is the handiwork of Danny Akin, president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – After the Florida House of Representatives made major concessions in the last two days of negotiations with the Senate seeking to reach a compromise on gambling legislation, the Senate abruptly reversed course today, moving significantly closer to its original position – and possibly ending the negotiations. Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Only hours after legislative gambling negotiations had seemingly reached an impasse yesterday, the Florida House of Representatives made its “final offer” and the Senate accepted. Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – The Florida Legislature today easily passed legislation that pro-family leaders decry as a “predatory” expansion of gambling in the Sunshine State. Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0900 KEYSTONE HEIGHTS (FBW) – The Southern Baptist Convention is a ship “adrift” and so low in the water that it “probably” needs to rid itself of some unnecessary “cargo” to “float and be healthy and strong again,” SBC president Johnny Hunt said in a May 13 interview with <i>Florida Baptist Witness</i>. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—As the Florida Legislature enters its final two weeks of the annual legislative session a major expansion of gambling is getting closer to reality, while Florida Baptist Convention legislative consultant Bill Bunkley is urging legislators to “Just Say No” to all gambling bills. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – With the announcement by Florida legislative leaders of an agreement on the budget and one-week extension of the 60-day session, pro-family leaders are urging immediate action by concerned citizens against a possible gambling expansion. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Late Wednesday Senate gambling conferees made their first “offer” to their House of Representatives counterparts as members of the Florida Legislature negotiate their differing approaches to gambling expansion. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – In what a Florida Baptist leader considers a major concession, the Florida House of Representatives has offered to allow banked card games – including blackjack – at the leading Seminole Tribe facility in its counter-offer to Senate negotiators during a May 1 gambling conference committee. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLHASSEE (FBW) – Contending Florida House Speaker Larry Cretul will be the “final arbiter” of whether there is a major expansion of gambling in the Legislature this year, Bill Bunkley is asking Florida Baptists to contact Cretul immediately and urge him to oppose gambling expansion. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – As of May 4, 100 Floridians have signed “Toward a Great Commission Resurgence,” a declaration officially released April 28 by Southern Baptist Convention President Johnny Hunt. Nationally, more than 1400 Southern Baptists have endorsed the statement. Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 WAKE FOREST, N.C. (FBW) – Although the declaration, “Toward a Great Commission Resurgence,” is now the “property” of Southern Baptist Convention president Johnny Hunt, the statement with more than 1400 endorsers after one week is the handiwork of Danny Akin, president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Pro-family leaders, joined by two former legislative leaders, decried “predatory” gambling under consideration in the Florida Legislature and urged legislators to reject as “fool’s gold” gambling expansion to balance the state budget in a March 27 news conference. Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 Christianity is true if Jesus arose from the grave—as Christians around the world will celebrate this Resurrection Sunday; if He did not, Christianity is false. <br><br> Really, it’s that simple. Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Casino-style gambling under consideration by the Florida Legislature to balance the state budget actually creates more governmental costs than tax benefits an expert in gambling economics told a House panel March 27. Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0900 In a cynical attempt for new revenue that avoids raising taxes, some in Tallahassee—led by Gov. Charlie Crist and certain legislators—are banking on making Floridians suckers to help balance the state’s $6 billion budget deficit. In one form or another, these “leaders” are betting, in part, on fixing our fiscal house with a gambling expansion. Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0900 President Barack Obama ran and was elected on the promise of a new tone in Washington—rejecting the old, partisan ways and ushering in a new post-partisan era where “common ground” would be sought among long-warring factions of the body politic. <br><br> Indeed, the new tone he promised for the nation’s capital was a key component of the “change” agenda Obama would bring to the White House. Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0900 “Are you sitting down?” <br><br> No one wants to hear this question at the beginning of a conversation—most especially in an unexpected phone call from your mother. But that was the question my mother asked me last Tuesday morning. Since she is 71 years old and we lost my father a little over a year ago, my mind immediately started to race with thoughts that there was something wrong with her. The news that prompted her question, however, was not about herself. Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0900 It’s usually great when Florida leads the nation—especially in college football. <br><br> Last week I learned a startlingly statistic of Sunshine State supremacy that we should all wish was not so: 86,000 divorces occurred in Florida in 2007—leading America, outpacing states with larger populations. Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0900 President Barack Obama took the oath office Jan. 20 on the steps of the Capitol at one end of the National Mall overflowing with supporters and other Americans wanting to be a part of history. On Aug. 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial at the opposite end of the nearly two-mile long Mall, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered to a similar multitude the definitive defense of the civil rights movement in his “I Have a Dream” speech. Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0900 The Florida Legislature concludes this week its special session called to balance the state budget, wisely rejecting new gambling revenue as a means of closing the 2008-2009 budget deficit. Nevertheless, citizens concerned about the detrimental effects of gambling expansion on our society should not be so confident about the coming regular legislative session. Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0900 <P class=bodycopy>A Florida judge’s Nov. 25 ruling finding unconstitutional Florida’s 31-year-old law banning homosexuals from adopting children has predictably received a great deal of attention throughout the state and beyond. Liberal daily newspapers have praised the ruling, while pro-family groups have decried the decision, predicting the law will eventually be sustained in the state appeals process, just as it has been in the federal courts in prior years.</P> Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0900 <p class=MsoNormal>As Florida’s deteriorating economy has impacted Florida Baptist churches, so it has <i>Florida Baptist Witness</i>. </p> Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0900 In the midst of an economic recession in which many Americans are downsizing their Christmas gift list, Southern Baptists need to remember our missionaries still need our support as they share the Gospel with a lost world. Indeed, giving to the annual Lottie Moon Christmas Offering in support of Southern Baptist international missions is even more urgent during difficult economic times. Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0900 After having the opportunity of working with Logos Bible Software’s new Series X for a couple months one word has continually come to mind - “Wow!” Here is a Bible software program that offers ease of use, incredible versatility and amazing power to vastly enhance and improve both the work and results of your Bible study. And with five levels of software, these programs can benefit any student of the Bible whether for personal devotional use or more demanding study required by Sunday school teachers, pastors or even the most seasoned scholar of the Scriptures. Imagine doing your Bible study by researching multiple Bibles, commentaries and Bible study tools, but instead of digging through all those books as they are scattered and piled high on your desk, your books are digitally stored on your computer with a high-powered search engine that effortlessly finds all the references for your study in moments by merely striking a few keys. Or, as Logos puts it: “Enter passage, click Go!” That’s the exciting possibility offered to Bible students of all kinds by Logos Series X. Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0900 For many years now—including during the months of debate about the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment—homosexual rights activists have claimed they merely seek tolerance for their lifestyle. Tell that to Phyllis Burgess. <br><br> In the wake of Californians’ adoption of Proposition 8, which establishes yet again that marriage is only between one man and one woman, homosexual activists have ravaged the Golden State with extreme protests, seeking to intimidate those who used the democratic process to set aright the state’s marriage law in response to four judges who created the “right” to marry for homosexuals in that state. Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Florida elected pro-gay rights presidential candidate Barack Obama, helping him win the White House, even while resoundingly rejecting “gay marriage” by adopting the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment with a 62 percent super majority. In these two developments we have both the danger and promise of the future for those of us concerned about biblical morality in public policy. Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0900 While the governor doesn’t seem to care about illegal gambling in our state, it seems the attorney general does. For that, Bill McCollum deserves the gratitude and support of Florida Baptists. Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0900 <p class=MsoNormal>ORLANDO (FBW) – After a four-year effort and overcoming numerous obstacles, supporters of traditional marriage were able to convince 62 percent of Floridians to amend their state constitution with a measure upholding the traditional definition of marriage.</p> Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Massachusetts parents Robb and Robin Wirthlin don’t want parents in Florida to have the same experience as they did when their seven-year-old son was taught from a book advocating “gay marriage” in his second grade public school classroom in the wake of that state’s legalization of same-sex marriages. Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 How you vote on Amendment 2, the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment, may very well impact whether the Christian Gospel can be preached unfettered in Florida in the future. What does “gay marriage” have to do with the Gospel? A great deal—and that’s no exaggeration. Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 <P class=bodycopy>This presidential election is the most important one in decades—perhaps even one of the most important since our nation’s founding. So it is said by partisans of all political stripes. It seems similar comments are made every four years.</P> Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Massachusetts parents Robb and Robin Wirthlin don’t want parents in Florida to have the same experience as they did when their seven-year-old son was taught from a book advocating “gay marriage” in his second grade public school classroom in the wake of that state’s legalization of same-sex marriages. Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 FORT LAUDERDALE (FBW)—The Fort Lauderdale City Commission failed to approve a resolution condemning the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment when no member of the body was willing to move adoption of the measure in its Oct. 7 meeting. In a city with a strong homosexual presence, not a single citizen spoke in favor of the resolution, while many citizens—led by Baptists—spoke against the measure. Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Floridians, when you cast your ballot on the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment this year, look at Massachusetts, California—and now Connecticut. <br><br> Contrary to claims of the liars attempting to scare Floridians into voting against the marriage amendment because of the false assertions that the measure is about everything other than marriage, the Connecticut Supreme Court’s 4-3 ruling on Oct. 10 legalizing “gay marriage” is the latest reminder of why we need Amendment 2. Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—Election Day is less than a month away and more pastors in Florida are becoming aware of the effort to pass Amendment 2, the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment, which will define marriage between a man and a woman in the Florida Constitution. Evidence of the increased awareness is seen by the participation in recent pastor briefings around the state. Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0900 These are daunting times. <BR><br>Foreboding signs point to even tougher economic times, whether it’s the rollercoaster ride (that seems mostly to have steep declines) on Wall Street or inflationary prices for average citizens on Main Street. Further, in a post-9/11 world with the ongoing war on terrorism in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the growing threat of a nuclear-empowered Iran, Americans have cause for concern about our future. Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0900 <P class=bodycopy>Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always “on call,” subject sometimes to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better. They are generally poorly compensated and live in a fish bowl under constant scrutiny. And those are just Mondays!</P> Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Illegal gambling is occurring in the State of Florida thanks to an unauthorized agreement negotiated by Gov. Charlie Crist with the Seminole Tribe—even though the state’s Supreme Court has invalidated the compact. Incredibly, the governor—whose duty is to execute the law—is doing nothing to stop this outrageous situation. Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW)—With only about six weeks left before the November general election and most people focused on the closely fought presidential contest, leaders of the campaign to pass a state constitutional marriage amendment are concerned that not enough pastors are engaging their congregations on the issue. Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Editor’s note: The subject matter of this editorial is not appropriate for children. <br><br> Every now and then a particularly outrageous example of what America’s culture wars are about becomes known, demonstrating our desperate moral condition. Such is the case with a new sex-education Web site by Planned Parenthood, America’s tragically mainstream purveyor of perversion. Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Floridians settling down in front of their televisions last week to take in the Democratic National Convention were treated to more than just speeches extolling the virtues of presidential nominee Barack Obama. If they didn’t make a run to the refrigerator during the breaks, viewers were exposed to what promises to be just the beginning of a non-stop onslaught of television commercials lying about the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment. Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Whenever this newspaper covers moral and public policy issues, inevitably I hear from some readers (thankfully, a small minority) that such content is unwelcomed and we would be better served focusing on just missions and other ministry topics. <br><br> For these persons, what they perceive as politics is at best tangential to our true Christian duties of preaching the Gospel. At worst, critics insist such matters are contrary to Baptists’ commitment to church-state separation. Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0900 A Saudi man cut out his daughter’s tongue and then burned her to death as punishment for her conversion from Islam to Christianity. <br><br> That religious freedom does not exist in Muslim Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is regrettably not a surprise. Tragically, murdering converts to Christianity is not uncommon in Saudi Arabia. Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—The pastor of one of the largest Southern Baptist churches in Florida has been named to lead a new effort to rally pastors to pass the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment in November. Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Witness gives generous coverage throughout the year to the various missions causes of Southern Baptists in our state, across the nation and around the world. We are privileged to have the opportunity to tell the story of God’s work among us and in doing so we hope that our readers are better informed and motivated to make a difference for Christ. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0900 As Florida Baptists and others in the Sunshine State prepare for what will be a difficult battle to pass the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment this fall, one of the more ingenious arguments for “gay marriage” being proffered must be answered: that is, “gay marriage” is good for marriage—for both heterosexuals and homosexuals—and it’s good for America. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Jesus wasn’t God, and even He didn’t consider Himself to be Savior. <br><br> It would not be surprising in the least to find most non-Christians embracing such views. After numerous examples of similar heresies, however, it’s no longer remarkable to find a denial of Jesus’ deity by an organization which claims to be Christian — and Baptist. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Just three days after the Executive Committee reported on June 10 in Indianapolis its response to the Southern Baptist Convention concerning a motion seeking creation of a database of Southern Baptist ministers guilty or accused of sexual abuse, a Baptist minister in southeast Texas was indicted on three charges of allegedly molesting two boys. Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Attempting to revive a closed, settled debate, an International Mission Board regional leader has resigned his position to publicly challenge certain doctrinal policies adopted by the IMB. Apart from the substance of his arguments, the fact that he remains a missionary while engaging in a political campaign shortly before the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting raises serious questions about the propriety of his efforts. Thu, 29 May 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Niceness is breaking out in South Carolina Baptist churches. I pray the rest of the Southern Baptist Convention is not next. <br><br> Who can be against niceness? Well, me—if being nice precludes telling the Gospel truth about the sinful condition of humanity and the eternal destination of those who remain in their sin, and if niceness means pastors must set aside— even for just a day—their prophetic role to their church members. Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 -0900 In a predictable although troubling 4-3 decision, the California Supreme Court decreed on May 15 “gay marriage” is a “fundamental constitutional right,” overturning two state laws—one of which was affirmed by 61 percent of Californians in 2000. <br><br> Meanwhile, closer to home, a pro-homosexual organization calling itself “Florida Red & Blue” last week began sending deceptive mailings across the Sunshine State to voters who signed petitions to put the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment on the ballot seeking to sow confusion and ultimately defeat the measure in November. Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)—A “dishonest and factually incorrect” mailing by opponents of the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment was decried today by John Stemberger, chairman of “Yes On 2,” the committee sponsoring the amendment. Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – A “dishonest and factually incorrect” mailing by opponents of the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment was decried today by John Stemberger, chairman of “Yes On 2,” the committee sponsoring the amendment. Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Daniel Webster was “minding own business” 28 years ago — rearing a young family, running his family air conditioning contracting company, and serving as a lay leader in his church — when he asked a question that changed his life: “Who sets public policy?” Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 -0900 The recently concluded 60-day Florida legislative session demonstrated the truth that when it comes to legislating, oftentimes no action is the best result. Unfortunately, the session also underscored the tragedy when legislators fail to act when human life and children’s worldviews are at risk. Thu, 01 May 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Many pro-abortion advocates routinely accuse those of us who are pro-life (or “anti-choice,” in their rhetoric) of only being concerned about unborn children and not caring about those children after they are born. The charge is baseless. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—Leaders of a coalition advocating a constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage announced April 17 a new name for the effort—"Yes on 2"—at 10 news conferences across Florida. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Killing legislation that would require women seeking abortions during the first trimester to have an ultrasound apparently has become a personal crusade for Sen. Jim King (R-Jacksonville). The former Senate president is seeking to recruit enough fellow Republicans to stop the pro-life bill offered by retiring Sen. Daniel Webster (R-Winter Garden). Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 <p class=BodyCopy >Large majorities of Americans continue to reject Darwinian evolution as an answer to the origin of life despite the hegemony it enjoys in the academy, popular culture, government and the news media. Americans who are concerned about the unwillingness of our societal elite to consider the flaws of evolution can send a message about our unrelenting rejection of Darwinism by seeing the new documentary, “Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed.”</p> Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – Leaders of a coalition advocating a constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage announced April 17 a new name for the effort – “Yes2Marriage” – at 10 news conferences across Florida. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 In America’s seemingly endless debate about abortion each side seeks to frame the debate to its advantage. Those who oppose abortion, including myself, note human life begins at conception and is thus worthy of protection from the beginning. These persons are “pro-life.” Those who support unlimited abortion rights shift the debate away from the child (using the technical medical term of “fetus” in order to de-humanize the child) and instead focus on the rights of women to make their own decisions. For these persons, “pro-choice” is the rallying cry. Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 A Baptist ethics professor's column last week offers what is essentially a red-letter hermeneutic to deal with the controversial issue of homosexuality: Just look to the words of Jesus in the Gospels where He is supposedly silent on the matter and where love of neighbor is the controlling ethic for Christians. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 MIAMI (FBW)—If the Sunshine State had a mission statement it should be “Florida is a family-friendly, wholesome, prosperous place” and “gambling doesn’t have a part in that,” former Gov. Jeb Bush told<i> Florida Baptist Witness</i> in an exclusive interview. Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—A gambling boom has come to the Sunshine State—starting in 2004 and escalating in the last year—with proponents promising economic development and new government revenues in a time of shrinking tax collections resulting from an uncertain economy. Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0900 An abhorrent part of Florida and American history has never been the subject of a formal apology from the Sunshine State, but an effort is underway in the Legislature to change that and it’s one that deserves the support of all Floridians—especially Florida Baptists. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0900 In America's celebrity-driven culture, perhaps the most harmful "Pied Piper" of heresies leading millions astray is Oprah Winfrey. Her adoption of anti-biblical doctrine is on display every day this year through her satellite radio network channel "Oprah & Friends." It's time for Christians to "just say no" to the big "O." Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0900 It's too bad members of the Florida Board of Education had not seen Ben Stein's forthcoming movie "Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed" before its Feb. 19 vote to reject an academic freedom amendment to the state's science standards. If the members ever do see the movie, I have to believe at least one of the four who voted against academic freedom will wish he or she had another opportunity to fix the standards' silence concerning permitting scientific critiques of Darwinian evolution in the state's K-12 public schools. Thu, 21 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0900 Former president Jimmy Carter convened a large assembly of moderate and liberal Baptists in Atlanta a few weeks ago, meeting under the banner of a "Celebration of a New Baptist Covenant," seeking unity for social action across racial and theological boundaries among 30 different Baptist denominations. Ironically, President Carter's appeal to the first century dispute between Paul and Peter as an example of why Christians today should seek unity in spite of theological differences is actually a vivid illustration of the theological danger ahead for this effort and why Southern Baptists cannot be involved. Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0900 With only days left before the Florida Board of Education meets Feb. 19 to consider new science standards that would require public schools to adopt an evolution-as-dogma approach, members of the Board have received good advice to correct this 10-year-document both from a drafter of the standards as well as persons on the outside. For the sake of our state, and especially for the sake of our children, let’s hope and pray the Board implements this advice. Thu, 07 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)—A constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage will be on the November ballot because supporters gathered 92,000 extra petitions in about two weeks after learning a computer glitch had dropped the previous tally below the 611,009 petition requirement. Thu, 07 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0900 In spite of growing concern and opposition, Florida education leaders are on the brink of requiring an evolution-as-dogma approach to teaching origins in public schools in the Sunshine State. Fortunately, there's still time to change the outcome on this critical matter. Sat, 02 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – A constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage will be on the November ballot because supporters gathered 92,000 extra petitions in about two weeks after learning a computer glitch had dropped the previous tally below the 611,009 petition requirement. Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0900 We weren't 12 spies sent in to evaluate the prospects of conquering the Promise Land. Instead, thousands of years after only two spies, Joshua and Caleb, brought back a good report—which was rejected by the ancient Children of Israel—I was among nine Baptist newspaper editors who recently toured Israel as guests of the Ministry of Tourism. Thu, 24 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0900 A multi-year effort to allow Florida voters the opportunity to protect marriage is in serious jeopardy of not making the 2008 November ballot unless concerned citizens act immediately and decisively to collect an additional 22,000 petitions before Jan. 29. Thu, 20 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0900 What would you expect the response to be of a person who signed a petition supporting a citizen initiative protecting traditional marriage in the state constitution when told that the effort has succeeded and Floridians will vote on the proposed amendment in November? <br><br> “Great! Let’s get to work to convince 60 percent of our fellow citizens to approve this important measure!” might be one response. Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0900 What does the intractable, often contentious debate about Calvinism in Southern Baptist life have to do with the Great Commission? A great deal, as far as Danny Akin is concerned. <br><br> The president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary was the concluding speaker at the "Building Bridges: Southern Baptists and Calvinism" conference a few weeks ago. Akin's seminary co-sponsored the meeting with the Founders Conference. Thom Rainer and the able executives and staff of LifeWay Christian Resources graciously hosted this important event at Ridgecrest Conference Center. The meeting raised more than a few eyebrows across the Southern Baptist Convention when it was announced earlier this year. Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0900 It’s an understatement to say much has been written about evolution since Charles Darwin articulated the theory in his groundbreaking 1859 book, The Origin of Species. Considerable controversy has ensued and in recent decades a compelling body of literature has arisen critiquing the theory, undermining central tenets to natural selection and enraging the overwhelming majority of scientists who continue to cling to Darwinian evolution with a religious-like devotion. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0900 The Seminole Tribe of Florida has successfully negotiated in less than one year with Gov. Charlie Crist what it failed to achieve with two prior governors (one from each political party) in more than 16 years—a compact which allows it to vastly expand its gambling empire, even permitting enterprises at its casinos that are prohibited elsewhere in the state. The supposedly anti-gambling governor—who promised on the campaign trail, including in an interview with me last summer, he would oppose any expansion of gambling in Florida—is now attempting to preside over the biggest and most dangerous expansion of gambling in Florida's history. Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0900 The month of September ended with my Dad having entered the hospital with nagging back problems in the wake of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease two months earlier. By the end of October, Floyd E. Smith had entered Glory, shocking my family with his sudden departure from this side of eternity. Needless to say, October was a blur. Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always "on call," subject sometimes to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better. They are generally poorly compensated and live in a fish bowl under constant scrutiny. And those are just Mondays! Thu, 04 Oct 2007 00:00:00 -0900 As the Legislature begins its budget-cutting special session this week, a seven-page ruling by the Florida Supreme Court handed down Sept. 27 should put the brakes on any prospective "compact" between the governor and the Seminoles permitting the tribe expanded gambling at its casinos in exchange for tax revenues to help balance the state's budget. Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0900 When the Legislature meets in special session next month to balance the state’s budget, don’t be surprised if more expanded gambling is put on the table by Gov. Charlie Crist as one element to close the approximately $1 billion deficit. Whatever short-term budget-balancing remedy gambling revenues provide, it’s a bad bet for Florida’s future. Thu, 13 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0900 The name of Jesus Christ can be uttered in a curse in a public place and no one takes notice. But if Jesus is invoked in a sincere prayer in the presence of those who don’t call Him Lord, a controversy is likely to erupt with great offense taken by non-Christians claiming that religious pluralism and tolerance have been violated by the Christian. Thu, 06 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0900 I suppose it's only natural that when most of us think about missions we typically imagine some far away, exotic place where different languages are spoken and the culture is literally foreign to us. The idea of participating in missions is generally associated with international travel away from our comfort zone. Thu, 30 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Soon-to-be-former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick has admitted to horrendous acts related to the gruesome and illegal practice of dog-fighting. Given the wall-to-wall media coverage detailing his ghastly deeds it is unnecessary to re-hash them here. Thu, 23 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jim Naugle happens to believe that sex acts should not be permitted in his city's public restrooms. For that "bigoted" belief and others that have offended South Florida's—indeed, the nation's—homosexual lobby, Naugle is under intense criticism, including protest rallies, a recall effort and the scorn of Broward County elected officials. Thu, 16 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Keith and Kristyn Getty, a couple from Northern Ireland, may be showing the way out of the "worship wars" that sometimes divides churches. It's their mission to create "modern hymns" that can unite generations by combining the doctrinal richness of hymns with contemporary music. This is a project worthy of our attention and support. Thu, 09 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Witness gives generous coverage throughout the year to the various missions causes of Southern Baptists in our state, across the nation and around the world. We are privileged to have the opportunity to tell the story of God's work among us and in doing so we hope that our readers are better informed and motivated to make a difference for Christ. Thu, 02 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0900 The “Rosa Parks” of euthanasia is coming to Gainesville in October to proselytize for his cause at the invitation of a University of Florida student organization. But Jack Kevorkian is not coming just to spread his morally repugnant message of physician-assisted suicide. He’ll be paid $50,000 for his trouble. Thu, 05 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0900 I never believed him. <br><br> In an interview last summer, I asked gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist whether he thought there was too much, too little, or just enough gambling in Florida and he replied, "I don't think we should expand gambling." He said it with the same level of conviction as when he told me he was "pro-life," while also refusing to affirm even one public policy restriction to limit abortion. Thu, 28 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0900 I’ve had a growing unease ever since the phenomenal box office success of Mel Gibson’s movie, “The Passion of the Christ,” that Hollywood is increasingly seeing churches as an untapped, target-rich environment to promote movies that it believes may be appealing to Christians — and subtly turning those churches into de facto marketing agents. “Evan Almighty,” a modern spin on the biblical story of Noah released last weekend, has turned my unease into outright concern. Thu, 28 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0900 I didn’t know Robert Gee Witty. In fact, I only met him once. Still, anyone familiar with theological education in Southern Baptist life will know about Witty — the founder of Luther Rice Seminary in Jacksonville and widely acknowledged innovator in distance education. <br><br> Witty died June 20 at the age of 100. Thu, 21 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Perhaps the most widely discussed action of the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in San Antonio last week was the affirmation by messengers of a SBC Executive Committee statement on the Baptist Faith and Message 2000, our denomination's confession of faith. Certain persons—in spin control overdrive—are claiming this action means SBC entities cannot go beyond the BF&M when evaluating prospective denominational employees or establishing doctrinal policies. Thu, 31 May 2007 00:00:00 -0900 It's time to move on. <br><br> That was the clear sentiment of the overwhelming majority of International Mission Board trustees May 8 in Kansas City after they convincingly adopted revised guidelines on baptism and on tongues and private prayer language used when considering prospective missionaries. The IMB vote came after a year-long study by an ad hoc committee of the board's Mission Personnel Committee, prompted by the controversy that had arisen after the initial action of the IMB in November 2005. Thu, 17 May 2007 00:00:00 -0900 It's impossible not to notice Florida's drought conditions and the wildfires which have been ignited by the dearth of rain in our state, but I got a personal, up-close experience about the magnitude and urgency of the matter this past weekend while traveling to a preaching engagement at the vibrant fellowship at First Baptist Church in Esto in Holmes County. Thu, 03 May 2007 00:00:00 -0900 If we were to be honest with ourselves, we all would have to admit that there are times in our lives when we wonder if we are making a difference. Does what we do on a day-to-day basis have eternal consequences that matter in the Kingdom of God? What is the legacy that will remain when we leave this world? Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:00 -0900 All the tell-tale signs are there—the inability to deal with reality, the belief that the big pay-off is imminent, the delusion that they can indeed get something for nothing, the obsession with money. That's right, the politicians in Tallahassee have a gambling addiction and it appears few are aware of their problem. Thu, 05 Apr 2007 00:00:00 -0900 This Lord's Day Christians across the United States and around the world will celebrate the glorious resurrection of Jesus. As the Scriptures report and believers from the first century forward have testified, on the third day after his burial, Jesus arose from the grave leaving behind an empty tomb. Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0900 The unanimous election of Geoff Hammond as the new president of the North American Mission Board was clearly a relief to trustees who met March 20-21 in Alpharetta, Ga., for the special called meeting. If early indications hold true, the choice of Hammond to lead Southern Baptists' missions agency focusing on the United States and Canada also will likely be a relief to Southern Baptists across the nation. Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0900 I'm pretty sure I've never been accused of being politically correct or an advocate of multiculturalism. That may change with this editorial. <br><br> It's long past time for Florida to have an official state song that can be sung and embraced by all its citizens. Today, that's not the case. Thu, 08 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0900 A "miracle baby" in Miami and a report by the governor's commission studying lethal injections provides stark evidence of our society's failure to understand the sanctity of human life. In both cases—one at the dawn of life and the other at the tragic end of life—biblical standards of morality gives the best guidance to our confused culture, if only we would heed them. Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Every now and then a helpful reminder concerning the importance of contending earnestly for the faith once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 3) comes from the most unlikely sources. Such was the case last week when I saw an Orlando Sentinel article about Stetson University—the formerly Florida Baptist school in DeLand that long ago abandoned its distinctive Christian witness. Thu, 15 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0900 It's not very often that Hollywood positively portrays evangelical Christians, but such is the case in Amazing Grace, a major motion picture about William Wilberforce's extraordinary leadership in the abolition of slavery. Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the slave trade's demise in Great Britain, Amazing Grace will be released Feb. 23 in theaters nationwide. Thu, 08 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0900 Contrary to the fears of Tallahassee pro-life leaders—and to the consternation of embryonic stem cell research advocates—Florida Gov. Charlie Crist announced Jan. 31 that he would not support legislative efforts to provide state funding for embryonic stem cell research (ESC), in spite of campaign pledges to favor such efforts. Crist's reversal was a huge surprise to both sides of the debate, but it wasn't exactly a change in position. Crist has proposed in his budget $20 million of state funds for stem cell research from non-embryonic sources—other than embryonic stem cell lines in existence in August 2001 when President George W. Bush issued a ban on federal funding of embryonic stem cell research. (For more on Crist's announcement, see related article.) Thu, 08 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0900 I'm not an Indianapolis Colts fan—after all, they're in the same division as our Jacksonville Jaguars. So, while it's tough to root for the Colts, I am a Tony Dungy fan. <br><br> In a professional sport more known for its beer-drenched sponsorships, scantily-clad cheerleaders, self-centered (and, increasingly, criminal) athletes, and profane, cursing coaches, Tony Dungy has stood apart as a first-class family man and, most importantly, a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Thu, 25 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0900 This week Americans on both sides of the abortion debate are marking the 34th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision that mandated abortion on demand in our land and plunged the nation into a seemingly never-ending political struggle over the nature of human life and the role of government in protecting human life. As pro-lifers consider the state of abortion in America in 2007, we would do well to be reminded of historical examples of other social efforts that may show us the way to success in our day. Thu, 11 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0900 The unrelenting campaign to gain governmental endorsement of the homosexual lifestyle has found its way to Florida's Okeechobee School District. If the homosexual agenda can succeed in rural Okeechobee it cannot be stopped anywhere in America. Thu, 14 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0900 When one thinks about the meaning and message of Christmas the miracle that God became man in the person of Jesus Christ must immediately come to mind. The Apostle John declared, "And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). Thu, 07 Dec 2006 00:00:00 -0900 As you're checking your Christmas gift list making sure that all your family and friends have been taken care of this year, please don't forget our Southern Baptist missionaries by giving generously to the annual Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. <br><br> With a goal this year of $150 million to help underwrite the work of nearly 5,200 missionaries of our International Mission Board spread across the globe, it will take every Southern Baptist to meet the growing needs of these faithful servants seeking to fulfill the Great Commission. Incredibly, the annual LMCO goal represents more than half of its entire annual budget, illustrating just how critical it is to the IMB's work. Thu, 30 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0900 "God made into flesh." <br><br> These words, uttered by the astonished Melchior after the star leads him and the other two magi to Bethlehem to find Jesus in the manger, encapsulate the central truth of the biblical account of Jesus' birth: Immanuel, God with us (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:23). Thu, 23 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0900 It was one of the briefest presentations during the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting in Fort Myers last week, but I hope that those in attendance and who read this account of Hayes Wicker's comments during the closing session Tuesday evening will take to heart his challenge. Thu, 16 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0900 When I told family and friends I had been invited to tour the country of Jordan-strategically located in the Middle East between warn-torn Iraq and security-minded Israel-more than a few frowned on the idea. Concerns about security in the region dominated conversations about the trip, but our sponsors with the Jordan Tourism Board assured the Association of State Baptist Papers' leadership that the nation was safe and peaceful. Thu, 09 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0900 On a fairly regular basis, I'm asked why Florida Baptists must pay a subscription fee to receive Florida Baptist Witness. The assumption, apparently held by some, is that anyone who wishes to receive the Witness should be able to do so without charge. Even more troubling is the notion of a few that they have a "right" to get the Witness for free. Thu, 02 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Any politician who wishes to seriously argue that traditional marriage is not threatened by the courts and/or that homosexual civil unions are consequentially different than "gay marriage," needs to take notice of the breathtakingly arrogant ruling of the New Jersey Supreme Court. And, by the way, we have more than a few such politicians vying for office in the Sunshine State this year. Thu, 26 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0900 If the national news media is correct, droves of evangelical voters who are disgusted with the Mark Foley scandal and disillusioned with certain policy deficiencies of the political party in power will show their disdain by abstaining from voting in next month's general election. Indeed, there seems to be some evidence of evangelical disenchantment which may very well result in fewer evangelicals voting Nov. 7. Thu, 28 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always "on call," subject sometimes to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better, generally poorly compensated and live in a fishbowl under constant scrutiny. And those are just Mondays! Thu, 21 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0900 On March 18, 2005, when the feeding tube was removed from Terri Schiavo after years of legal wrangling prompted by her husband's desire to end her tragic life, what did Terri know? <br><br> How aware was she that the clock had begun ticking and the withdrawal of food and hydration was for the purpose of ending her life, which would come 13 days later? Was Terri cognizant that her husband, with the compliance of the judicial system and in the wake of the failure of federal and state legislatures and Florida's chief executive to stop him, was seeking to end her life because she had mysteriously and catastrophically suffered severe brain damage 15 years earlier? Thu, 07 Sep 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Do you remember the day when terrorists waged war on America on September 11, 2001? Of course; who could not remember that awful day and the days of uncertainty and, for some, fear, that filled our lives. It almost seems like it was just yesterday when our nation was plunged into a worldwide war on terrorism that continues today-and will likely continue for many years into the future. Thu, 31 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Embryonic stem cell research is possible without killing the embryos which are the subjects of that research—that’s the over-hyped claims of researchers of Advanced Cell Technology of Worcester, Mass., that swept the nation last week with overwrought claims that the supposed breakthrough would end the debate about the ethics of embryonic stem cell research. Thu, 24 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0900 How many of you will sin on Sept. 5th by failing to vote? That’s the day when Floridians will go to the polls and choose candidates in each political party’s primaries for various statewide and local offices, as well as for certain non-partisan positions. Some voters choose to take advantage of the option of voting early or by absentee ballot. But, the bottom line is—by whatever means it is done, I believe Christians who fail to vote are, in fact, sinning. Thu, 17 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0900 The First District Court of Appeals last week handed down a potentially devastating ruling for the gambling industry in Florida, but it may not be enough to stop the rapacious evil of Las Vegas slot machines from starting-up in Broward County this fall—unless Gov. Jeb Bush and Attorney General Charlie Crist act very soon. Thu, 10 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Believe me, it’s not a partisan statement to say the Democrat leadership of the United States Senate is protecting abusive men who impregnate girls and their willing accomplices in the abortion industry—even when overwhelming majorities in the Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives have passed legislation to combat that abuse. Such is the reality of a political party so beholden to the abortion lobby. Thu, 03 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Witness gives generous coverage throughout the year to the various missions causes of Southern Baptists in our state, across the nation and around the world. We are privileged to have the opportunity to tell the story of God’s work among us and in doing so we hope that our readers are better informed and motivated to make a difference for Christ. Thu, 27 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Frank Page is my president. <br><br> I don’t mean that I personally supported his candidacy. I didn’t. In fact, I didn’t even vote for president of the Southern Baptist Convention this year — or any office or any matter put to a vote at the annual meeting. Indeed, I haven’t voted once — nor have been a messenger — at the Southern Baptist Convention since I became executive editor of Florida Baptist Witness in 2001. I don’t plan on changing this practice, either. Thu, 29 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0900 A few months ago I wrote an editorial, “Our inevitable conflict with the homosexual lobby” (March 13), about the unrelentingly political agenda of the “gay rights” movement and how Christians are increasingly the subject of attacks for merely being true to biblical tenets. Unfortunately, events this month related to the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment has provided vivid evidence of this truth — and why it’s even more important for those who care for God’s Word and what’s best for our society to stand firm in our defense of traditional marriage. Thu, 22 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Trying to decide what to editorialize about following the conclusion of the Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in Greensboro last week is like trying to drink water out of fire hydrant. Undoubtedly, this year’s annual meeting was the most news-packed SBC in many years and included many items ripe for editorial comment. Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0900 It has been my privilege to attend since September three meetings of the International Mission Board, including two in the Sunshine State and the most recent trustee meeting last week in Albuquerque, N.M. (For news coverage of the meeting, see Ninety-five new IMB missionaries exemplify God’s call; IMB trustees appoint 95 missionaries, elect officers;IMB chairman recommends further restriction on blogging trustee.) At each of the meetings I have been astounded by the awesome task of this body of 88 of our Southern Baptist peers in guiding the work of the most impressive missionary force God has blessed any denomination to gather. Thu, 25 May 2006 00:00:00 -0900 The United States Senate will soon vote on the Marriage Protection Amendment (MPA), which would define marriage in the U.S. Constitution as solely the union of one man and one woman. With the homosexual lobby bringing challenges across the nation to various state laws protecting the traditional definition of marriage and the adoption of same-sex “marriage” in Massachusetts, it is only a matter of time before activist federal judges require affirmation of “gay marriage.” Thu, 11 May 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Indeed, children are a blessing. Unfortunately, the Pslamist’s declaration (Ps. 127:3) frequently is not cherished or practiced by some parents and other adults. That’s where the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes comes in; and so do we through the annual Mother’s Day Offering. The goal for this year’s offering is $1.3 million. Thu, 04 May 2006 00:00:00 -0900 There he goes again. <br><br> Former President Jimmy Carter – ever the enthusiast of summits, peacemaking and (certain) Baptist meetings – helped two Mercer University executives call together Baptist leaders April 10 for a four-hour dialogue at The Carter Center in Atlanta resulting in the announcement, with great fanfare, of “A North American Baptist Covenant” signed by 18 participants, including one leader whose views have been found to be heretical. Thu, 06 Apr 2006 00:00:00 -0900 It’s not often that this newspaper becomes part of a story. <br><br> From time-to-time our reporting or commentary gains the attention of other news outlets, which has resulted in our coverage impacting a story. Some examples include our coverage of the Terri Schiavo case, which played a role in the presiding judge’s broken relationship with a Florida Baptist congregation, or last December when former President Jimmy Carter was forced in response to our editorial to admit an error about Adrian Rogers in his recent book and apologize to the Rogers’ family. Thu, 30 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – In the wake of the cancellation of the annual Florida Leadership Prayer Breakfast, which was abandoned this year because legislators would be in violation of a new lobbying law since the annual event was in part underwritten by lobbyists, legislators who are part of a weekly prayer group decided to hold their own prayer breakfast. Thu, 23 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0900 <p>Any claim that the homosexual lobby seeks merely society’s tolerance has been laid bare as the lie that it is by two recent developments in which private Christian colleges and a Christian teacher at a Miami public high school have come under intense criticism for merely contending for the clear teaching of Scripture regarding the immorality of homosexuality.</p> Thu, 09 Mar 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Skye is a 15-year-old foster child being cared for by a lesbian who wishes to adopt the boy. Skye describes himself as “transgender.” <br><br> The homosexual lobby in Florida is putting forward Skye as a poster child, literally, for its dangerous agenda seeking to repeal a ban preventing homosexuals to adopt. Skye, tragically however, is an example of what is terribly wrong with the foster system. Tue, 28 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0900 In the matter of politics, it takes a lot to disturb me. Thu, 23 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0900 EDITOR’S NOTE: With this issue, I mark the completion of my first five years as executive editor of Florida Baptist Witness. A great deal has changed in these short five years – the addition of new staff, a total redesign of the newspaper, and the launch and rapid expansion of our Web site (www.FloridaBaptistWitness.com), to name a few of the more notable innovations. I believe – and I hope our readers agree – that the Witness has improved both in content and appearance during this era. Thu, 16 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0900 In a very personal way, Florida Baptists have seen the Cooperative Program work – and that experience galvanized churches in 2005 to the greatest level of support for CP ever. <br><br> A second-in-a-row devastating hurricane season in 2005 did not prevent Florida Baptists from giving more than ever before to missions through the Cooperative Program – $39.2 million, a seven percent increase from 2004, and $2.2 million in excess of the budget, permitting the State Board of Missions to earmark more than $1.1 million for Southern Baptist Convention-wide missions causes. Thu, 09 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – A nearly year-long effort to allow Florida citizens to vote on a state constitutional amendment protecting traditional marriage failed to gain the necessary 611,000 valid petitions, leaders of the Florida Coalition to Protect Marriage announced Feb. 1. Thu, 09 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0900 There are plenty of understandable reasons why the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment did not receive enough valid petitions to appear on the 2006 ballot – a significantly higher number of petitions were needed than ever before, a much earlier deadline for the petitions to qualify, and another distractingly busy hurricane season. Thu, 02 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0900 A committee hearing last week in Tallahassee on a bill to provide taxpayer funds for embryonic stem cell research will fuel a growing debate in our state concerning the ethical implications of these scientific endeavors and what role the state should play in fostering such research. This is a debate in which pro-life citizens should be participating to ensure morally wise public policy is made in the Sunshine State. Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – A nearly year-long effort to allow voters to decide this year a state constitutional amendment protecting traditional marriage failed to gain the necessary 611,009 valid petitions, leaders of the Florida Coalition to Protect Marriage announced Feb. 1. Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW)–With only two weeks until the Feb. 1 deadline for petitions seeking to put a constitutional amendment to protect marriage on the November ballot, more than 300 pastors from various evangelical denominations gathered Jan. 16-17 for a last-ditch rally organizers hope will propel the amendment effort beyond the necessary 611,000 petitions to allow voters to ban “gay marriage” in Florida this fall. Fri, 20 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – With only two weeks until the Feb. 1 deadline for petitions seeking to put a constitutional amendment to protect marriage on the November ballot, more than 300 pastors from various evangelical denominations gathered Jan. 16-17 for a last-ditch rally organizers hope will propel the amendment effort beyond the necessary 611,000 petitions to allow voters to ban “gay marriage” in Florida this fall. Thu, 19 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0900 James Dobson has a stark warning about “gay marriage” for Christians in America: “This is the climactic moment in the battle to preserve the family, and future generations hang in the balance.” <br><br> For Floridians facing the daunting challenge of collecting 400,000-plus additional petitions to put the Florida Marriage Protection Amendment on the November 2006 ballot, the final days of January are our own climactic moment. Will Florida Baptists and other concerned citizens do what is necessary to allow Florida to join 19 other states which have passed state constitutional amendments to protect traditional marriage? Thu, 12 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)–Backers of the proposed Florida Marriage Protection Amendment held simultaneous news conferences at nine locations across the state Jan. 6 to announce the endorsement of the state constitutional amendment by hundreds of religious, political and business leaders and to announce an “ultimate mailing deadline” of Jan. 23 to receive petitions. Thu, 12 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0900 Even while millions of Americans will once again observe this month the notorious anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion on demand in our nation, developments in the federal courts and – unexpectedly – the entertainment industry continue to expose the ugly truth that abortion is the unjust taking of human life. Tue, 10 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW)–Backers of the proposed Florida Marriage Protection Amendment held simultaneous news conferences at nine locations across the state Jan. 6 to announce the endorsement of the state constitutional amendment by hundreds of religious, political and business leaders and to announce an “ultimate mailing deadline” of Jan. 23 to receive petitions. Thu, 15 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0900 “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” is not a Christian movie. <br><br> Even so, it is a family-friendly story with valuable lessons about good and evil, forgiveness and sacrifice, courage and duty that I hope many Christians will go to see. And when they do, they should take along their unbelieving family and friends, although the theological themes of the book are muted and helping non-Christians understand the Gospel connection will take some effort. Thu, 08 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0900 EDITOR'S NOTE: President Carter responded to this editorial in a Dec. 9 letter to Florida Baptist Witness Executive Editor James A. Smith Sr. As far as Jimmy Carter is concerned, Adrian Rogers and Iran’s Ayatollah Khomeini are like-minded fanatics and, although each claims a different brand of the dreaded fundamentalism that is sweeping our world, both are equally as dangerous. This is the inescapable of conclusion of any reasonable person who has read Carter’s new book, Our Endangered Values: America’s Moral Crisis. Thu, 01 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0900 During this time of year when our thoughts are often fixated on finalizing our Christmas shopping list – and the gifts we hope to get – it’s good for all of us to be reminded that the best Christmas gift ever given was that of God sending His Son so that we can be made right with Him. And, the best present any of us who have been blessed to receive God’s gift can give to others is the Good News of the Gospel that they, too, can be recipients of God’s grace. Thu, 24 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0900 The Florida Marriage Protection Amendment signing ceremony during the Florida Baptist State Convention annual meeting in Ocala was important symbolically. But symbols alone will not get the job done. <br><br> Don’t get me wrong. High praise is due to FBSC President Hayes Wicker, First Vice President Mike Landry, State Board of Missions President Ben Bryant, and Florida Baptist Convention Executive Director-Treasurer John Sullivan for personally endorsing the marriage amendment effort with their signatures and for giving time during the annual meeting schedule Tuesday morning to bring special attention to this worthy effort. As valuable as the signing ceremony was, however, it will take more than symbolic actions for Florida Baptists to fully play our part in making sure that the marriage amendment is on the ballot next November. Thu, 17 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0900 The gambling industry’s corrosive, putrid influence on ethics in Tallahassee was vividly illustrated recently when it was revealed that four lawmakers accepted an extravagant, two-day junket to Canada costing nearly $50,000 from a company which owns a pari-mutuel facility in Broward County and plans to purchase another in Ocala. Thu, 10 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0900 NAPLES (FBW)–Florida Baptist State Convention president Hayes Wicker believes “the time is short before Jesus returns” and is praying for a “great awakening” in “perilous times” marked by “hurricanes, Islamic extremism, liberal ideologies and rampant immorality.” Thu, 10 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Southern Baptists know a little something about persecution. <br><br> No, I don’t mean that the increasingly prevailing conventional “wisdom” in our society is contradictory to our theological and moral convictions, resulting in harassment from our fellow citizens (although that is certainly true in some cases). Thu, 03 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0900 In the wake of the devastating hurricanes of Katrina and Rita in the Gulf Coast, about 1,500 Southern Baptist churches across the United States have pledged to adopt about 500 congregations whose facilities were either totally destroyed or significantly damaged by these storms. Organized through the Southern Baptist North American Mission Board’s “Adopt A Church” program, many Florida Baptist congregations are participating in this or similar efforts to assist struggling churches in great need. Thu, 20 Oct 2005 00:00:00 -0900 The next three months may very well determine whether or not Floridians will have the opportunity to vote to protect marriage in the state constitution during next year’s election. My question to Florida Baptists is simple: what are you prepared to do to make sure we can vote on this critical issue in 2006? Thu, 13 Oct 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always “on call,” subject sometimes to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better. They are generally poorly compensated and live in a fish bowl under constant scrutiny. And those are just Mondays! Thu, 29 Sep 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptists have the unique opportunity to host and participate in two missionary appointment services of the International Mission Board in the span of six months. Having had the privilege of attending the Sept. 13 appointment service at Hillcrest Baptist Church in Pensacola, I can state quite enthusiastically that those who fail to take advantage of the opportunity of attending the appointment service next March in Tampa will miss a huge blessing. Thu, 01 Sep 2005 00:00:00 -0900 A Tampa museum’s exhibition of human dead bodies – to “educate and entertain” – is a morbid and chilling reminder of the assault on the sanctity of human life in our society. That such a show has been allowed to go on demonstrates state and local officials do not have the legal standing – or, perhaps the will – to put a stop to it. Thu, 25 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Leaders of a coalition supporting a state constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage announced at three simultaneous news conferences Aug. 19 the effort has virtually reached an important “milestone” and called on Florida Secretary of State Glenda Hood, Attorney General Charlie Crist and the state Supreme Court to “expedite” their review of the proposed amendment. Fri, 19 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – Leaders of a coalition supporting a state constitutional amendment to protect traditional marriage announced at three simultaneous news conferences Aug. 19 the effort has virtually reached an important “milestone” and called on Florida Secretary of State Glenda Hood, Attorney General Charlie Crist and the state Supreme Court to “expedite” their review of the proposed amendment. Thu, 18 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0900 A Miami Herald article last week vividly illustrates part of what’s wrong with Tallahassee – and highlights the daunting challenge of defeating gambling expansion in the Sunshine State. Not surprisingly, state Sen. Jim King (R-Jacksonville) is at the center of both problems. Thu, 04 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Let me state clearly from the outset of what is likely to be for some readers a controversial editorial – I don’t believe all praise choruses are vacuous, mindlessly repetitive celebrations of human-focused, pseudo worship of God and not all hymns are rich, theologically rigorous, God-centered worship. I’ve sung my share of deeply moving and meaningful praise choruses and I’ve winced my way through plenty of less-than-profound hymns. Thu, 28 Jul 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Witness gives generous coverage throughout the year to the various missions causes of Southern Baptists in our state, across the nation and around the world. We are privileged to have the opportunity to tell the story of God’s work among us and in doing so we hope that our readers are better informed and motivated to make a difference for Christ. Thu, 14 Jul 2005 00:00:00 -0900 The homosexual political lobby suffered a significant setback in Hillsborough County last month after leaders voted overwhelmingly to prohibit the county from sanctioning and promoting “gay pride” events. In the wake of this sensible public policy decision, Commissioner Ronda Storms (District 4), the sponsor of the measure before the Board of County Commissioners, has been the subject of extraordinarily mean-spirited and hateful attacks by the homosexual lobby, both daily newspapers, an alternative publication and several radio stations. Thu, 30 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0900 From moments after the initial gavel was brought down by President Bobby Welch Tuesday Morning, June 21, officially opening the 148th session of the Southern Baptist Convention, to the very end of the annual meeting on the next evening, messengers in the Gaylord Entertainment Center were regularly exhorted by our president with the now familiar question-answer challenge which he has made the rally cry of a renewed evangelistic emphasis for the nation’s largest non-Catholic denomination. Thu, 16 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Like last year, much secular news media attention in the weeks leading up to this year’s annual meeting in Nashville has centered on proposed resolutions criticizing public education and urging Southern Baptists to remove their children from those schools. This year, the effort has gained the support of a nationally recognized Christian apologist, Voddie Baucham, and has been more narrowly tailored to focus particular attention on the promotion of homosexuality in the schools. Thu, 09 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0900 This is a story of sins of the Religious Right and the Religious Left. A story about how abortion politics caused a pastor to lose his job and those same politics caused a liberal professor to trumpet bogus stats hoping to put George W. Bush in the unemployment lines. Thu, 02 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0900 I hate to bring it up – but have you noticed that we’ve now begun Hurricane Season, 2005? <br><br> I cannot imagine there is a Floridian today that lived in the state last fall who needs to be reminded that June 1 officially began the hurricane season. The turning of the calendar – and the realization that the tropics are now primed for what forecasters are predicting will be an even busier season than last year – is a good opportunity for all of us to be reminded of the extraordinary efforts of God’s people known as Florida Baptists in the midst of four powerful hurricanes in just six weeks last fall. Thu, 26 May 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Worldview matters; it is inescapable and inevitable. Worldview – a comprehensive understanding of reality – determines how we order our lives, governs our decisions and shapes our actions. <br><br> It’s not surprising, therefore, that worldview shows up in our daily lives – sometimes, subtly, other times, not so nuanced. And the existence of non-biblical worldviews calls for a Christian response offered in the person of Jesus Christ and His Gospel. Thu, 12 May 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Last week, while seeking support of the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes Mother’s Day Offering (to which you may still contribute), I argued against “holy huddles” and “cursing the darkness” when Christians consider their options in responding to our society’s treatment of children. While we may want to ignore the problems and it may feel good – temporarily – to criticize the way things are, I noted that these are not proper Christian responses to societal evils. Thu, 05 May 2005 00:00:00 -0900 It seems like every day brings a new headline about the neglect and abuse of the most vulnerable in our society – our children. The nation’s news cameras are focused regularly on our own state as another child has gone missing from the Department of Children and Families or one has been abducted, assaulted and murdered by predators who have failed to be adequately punished and removed from the public. Thu, 28 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Can the youth in your church – or your home – tell you more about the rules of Ultimate Frisbee than they can the core truths of the Christian faith? If the youth in your life are like most, the troubling answer is likely to be a resounding “yes.” Thu, 07 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Terri Schiavo is dead; even just typing these words is difficult. I cannot express my profound sadness for her family – and for our state and nation. <br><br> A great evil has been committed in the broad daylight of public scrutiny; an injustice that resulted from political incompetence, that came via judicial fiat, but ultimately was due to the immoral decisions of one person. Our nation is worse today because Michael Schiavo was permitted to kill his wife. Wed, 06 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0900 JACKSONVILLE (FBW) – Readers have flooded the e-mail inboxes of Florida Baptist Witness staff and smashed previous records of traffic on the Web site of the official newspaper of the Florida Baptist State Convention during the waning weeks of its coverage of the Terri Schiavo controversy. Mon, 04 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0900 <br><br> Terri Schiavo is dead; even just typing these words is difficult. I cannot express my profound sadness for her family – and for our state and nation. Thu, 24 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0900 “The Republican Nine first came together over fried chicken and salad.” <br><br> The St. Petersburg Times reported March 20 the GOP senators in Tallahassee became known as the Republican Nine when they resolved together last week that they would not support legislation offered by Sen. Daniel Webster, R-Winter Garden, to help save Terri Schiavo from the cruel death ordered by Sixth Circuit Judge George Greer. Thu, 24 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0900 TALLAHASSEE (FBW) – For the second time in a week, the Florida Senate has rejected a bill that intended to help Terri Schiavo offered by Sen. Daniel Webster, R-Winter Garden. Thu, 17 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Thu, 10 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0900 There’s nothing like losing to focus the attention of a major political party. <br><br> Fresh from the convincing re-election of President George W. Bush in an election cycle in which voters told pollsters values was a key component of their ballot decision-making, Democrats at the national level and in our state are reconsidering what they can do to reach out to evangelicals and other voters concerned about abortion, marriage and other values issues. Thu, 03 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Voters in Broward and Miami-Dade counties have already started to cast their ballots in the March 8th referendums whether to permit pari-mutuel facilities in the two South Florida counties to install Las Vegas-style slot machines. And, the rest of the Sunshine State may be living with the repercussions of their decisions for decades. Thu, 03 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0900 On Thursday, Feb. 24, our business manager’s husband, Paul Bugbee, went home to be with the Lord after succumbing to lung cancer. Most readers will not recognize Ginny Bugbee’s name since her role with Florida Baptist Witness is in the background. Nevertheless, Ginny is an immensely integral part of our work — something about which our newsletter churches would quickly and heartily testify. Thu, 17 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Editor’s note: This story will be updated later today, Monday, Feb. 14. <br><br>ORLANDO (FBW) – A broad-based coalition of religious and pro-family organizations – including the Florida Baptist Convention – launched on Valentine’s Day an ambitious citizen initiative to amend Florida’s Constitution defining marriage as “the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife.” Thu, 17 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Last November at the annual meeting of the Florida Baptist State Convention, Florida Baptists enthusiastically endorsed a call for a state constitutional amendment to protect marriage. <br><br> Offered by Lakeland pastor Jay Dennis, the motion said, “I move that in this historical 150th anniversary meeting of the Florida Baptist State Convention, that we lovingly, yet with passion and conviction, lead the way and go on record as supporting a statewide constitutional marriage amendment that defines marriage as the union between a man and a woman and is the God-ordained building block of the family and bedrock of civil society. We are calling upon our legislators and the citizens of the State of Florida to begin the process of such a constitutional amendment.” Mon, 14 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0900 ORLANDO (FBW) – A broad-based coalition of religious and pro-family organizations – including the Florida Baptist Convention – launched on Valentine’s Day an ambitious citizen initiative to amend Florida’s Constitution defining marriage as “the legal union of only one man and one woman as husband and wife.” Thu, 10 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0900 I could hear the anguish in his voice. <br><br> Jerry Vines – the most prominent pastor in the Super Bowl XXXIX host city of Jacksonville – told me the morning after the big game how difficult it was to cancel First Baptist Church’s Sunday evening services to assist city officials clearing the way for the National Football League’s championship game. Thu, 03 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0900 Last week in this space, I decried politicians in our state who are pushing the something-for-nothing deception of gambling in order to get in on the financial windfall they believe slot machines in South Florida will bring. But it’s not just the politicians who are preying on Floridians with the March 8 ballot referendums in Broward and Miami-Dade counties. Thu, 27 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0900 It’s a sickening sight. <br><br> Watching South Florida politicians scrambling to get in on the loot they believe will come with the introduction of slot machines at pari-mutuel facilities is enough to turn your stomach. These public servants have betrayed their obligation to serve the best interests of their communities by their frenetic dash to the “winner’s circle” to claim their share of the slots prize – a projected $10 million annual windfall. Thu, 16 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0900 In the midst of a relentlessly sex-saturated culture with the entertainment industry energetically advancing promiscuity at every turn and the federal government lavishly spending billions to promote “safe sex” school programs that are little more than “how to” guides encouraging sexual experimentation, I guess it’s too much to expect a respectful hearing for the abstinence-only approach to sex education in the liberal corridors of Capitol Hill. Thu, 09 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Shoppers at Target stores this Christmas season may have noticed a certain, familiar sound missing from the hustle and bustle of their favorite retailer. Bell ringers from the Salvation Army with their distinctive red kettles are no longer on the premises seeking spare change to support the organization’s unique charitable work. But, it’s not because they don’t want to be there. Thu, 02 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Last week in my editorial, “Surging missions commitment?” (Nov. 25, 2004), I urged Florida Baptists to match their increased giving to the 2003 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (LMCO) in this year’s effort. I need to update the statistics I used. Thu, 25 Nov 2004 00:00:00 -0900 What a difference a year makes! <br><br> Last year when we published our annual focus on international missions in conjunction with the Week of Prayer for International Missions, I questioned whether Southern Baptists were suffering from a “depression in missions commitment.” Thu, 18 Nov 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Jay Dennis really knows how to stir things up! His motion urging Florida Baptists to “lead the way” on biblical marriage is precisely what we did last week in Jacksonville. <br><br> It’s not often that actions at a Baptist meeting garner the attention of a state’s political establishment the very same day, but that’s exactly what happened last week when news spread across the Sunshine State that Florida Baptists wanted a state constitutional amendment affirming biblical marriage. Thu, 11 Nov 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Journalism often has been called the “first draft of history.” Indeed, this is an apt description of the news media’s role as the initial chroniclers of the affairs of society. <br><br> As Florida Baptists celebrate our sesquicentennial anniversary this year, it’s an appropriate time to remind Florida Baptists of the critical role played by Florida Baptist Witness in recording most of those 150 years of history—and the vital function of the Witness today in publishing Good News about God’s work. Thu, 28 Oct 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Perhaps like never before, this year’s election season has seen heightened attention to faith voters – both on the part of the presidential campaigns, as well as by various organizations seeking to register and educate religious voters. Some Christians – and many in the liberal media elite – fret over these developments, with some even suggesting religious voter outreach endangers church-state separation and entangles churches in matters unrelated to their proper mission. Thu, 21 Oct 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Did you know that a girl in Florida may have an abortion without the consent – or even knowledge – of her parents? We live with this appalling state of affairs not because legislators haven’t tried to adopt parental involvement legislation. In fact, they have passed repeatedly such common-sense legislation, only to be thwarted twice by the Florida Supreme Court and once by a former governor. Thu, 14 Oct 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Have you noticed those slick televisions ads lately selling Amendment 4 to Floridians as a long overdue, painless and harmless way of regulating and taxing gambling to help with overcrowding schools and underpaid teachers? With a flush bank account of well over $13 million, if you haven’t noticed them yet, don’t worry—we’re going to be bombarded with them from now until Nov. 2. Thu, 07 Oct 2004 00:00:00 -0900 “Hurricane fatigue” – there’s a lot of this going around these days after four hurricanes have battered Florida in just six weeks. Many of us have become far too accustomed to checking out the National Hurricane Center’s Web site for the latest storm’s current track, cringing at the thought that another hurricane has our state in its crosshairs. There’s no doubt that the Sunshine State has seen more than its fair share of devastation this hurricane season. Many Floridians – including many Florida Baptist churches – have suffered greatly in the last two months. Thu, 23 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0900 And then there was Ivan. <br><br> With the velocity of Charley and size of Frances, Florida’s Panhandle has joined the rest of our battered, bruised and hurting state after three hurricanes have pounded the Sunshine State in five weeks. There’s no historical precedent for what we’ve experienced – and there’s no guide for what the storms will require from all of us to prevent these setbacks from harming the work of Florida Baptists in the months and years to come. Thu, 16 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Don Miller is a big man. In spite of his towering, brawny appearance, after only a few words, it's clear this big man has a soft heart. <br><br> That soft heart is especially evident when the director of missions for the Lake County Baptist Association talks about a 79-year-old woman who made a profession of faith in Christ last week. As a chainsaw relief team was clearing downed trees from her roof, the elderly woman, for the first time ,was willing to hear about Christ, Miller told me Sept. 9 at the Kissimmee Disaster Relief Command Center. Thu, 09 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Not again. It's almost as if our state has been marked with a huge X. <br><br> Only three weeks after a large swath of the Sunshine State was battered by Hurricane Charley, another – and even larger – hurricane has pounded our state, wreaking a path of destruction almost exactly opposite Charley’s track. Thu, 19 Aug 2004 00:00:00 -0900 The Sunshine State is famous for its fruit, but it wasn’t citrus products that were on my mind this weekend as I surveyed the amazing destruction left in the wake of Hurricane Charley. Reminders of a different kind of produce seemed to follow me on my trek. Thu, 05 Aug 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Editor’s note: Baptist Press ran an updated version of this editorial on August 9. <br><br> God is cool again in the Democratic Party. <br><br> Besides the determined effort to validate its commitment to fighting terrorism, the decision by party leaders during the Democratic National Convention last week to show more empathy for values and especially for religiously motivated voters was perhaps the most strategic component of John Kerry’s coronation as his party’s presidential standard-bearer. Only time will tell if evangelicals and other citizens of faith find the new outreach sincere and compelling. Thu, 15 Jul 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist Witness gives generous coverage throughout the year to the various missions causes of Southern Baptists in our state, around the nation and throughout the world. We are privileged to have the opportunity to tell the story of God’s work among us, and in doing so we hope that our readers are better informed and motivated to make a difference for Christ. Thu, 01 Jul 2004 00:00:00 -0900 The old saying was never truer: “It’s time to put up or shut up.” <br><br> The United States Senate is poised to tackle the “gay marriage” debate as it is scheduled to vote on the Federal Marriage Amendment during the week of July 12. According to several sources, both Florida senators – Bob Graham and Bill Nelson – are opposed to the amendment. Thu, 24 Jun 2004 00:00:00 -0900 The annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in Indianapolis last week provided clear evidence that there is a growing level of restlessness among grassroots Southern Baptists with their leaders. The good news is that at least several leaders were paying attention – and are already taking steps to demonstrate their concern. Thu, 17 Jun 2004 00:00:00 -0900 I never met Ronald Reagan—until 4:15 a.m., Thursday, June 10, as he lay in state in the Capitol Rotunda. Our “meeting,” a long-desired aspiration, occurred after I waited more than four hours in line with thousands of others to honor our 40th president. Under the circumstances, I would have preferred never to have met him. Thu, 10 Jun 2004 00:00:00 -0900 “The Southern Baptist Convention is Southern like the Roman Catholic Church is Roman.” <br><br>Coined by my former boss, Richard Land, head of the Southern Baptist Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, I cited this maxim on more occasions than I can recall during my six years working on behalf of Southern Baptists in the nation’s capital. Land’s explanation helped to illustrate that, just as in the case with Roman Catholics, Southern Baptists are no longer restricted to the region of their founding. Clearly, Southern Baptists are no longer just from the South. Thu, 03 Jun 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Contrary to what Dan Rather, the New York Times and your local newspaper would have you believe, you were right all along – America’s news media is liberal. And now there’s indisputable evidence to prove it. Thu, 20 May 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Extraordinary times call for extraordinary action – and ministry. <br><br> Such is the case in John Sullivan’s call for Florida Baptists to initiate “Operation: Beans, Rice and Water,” an extraordinary effort in helping to alleviate starving among the people of civil-war-ravaged Haiti. The Florida Baptist Convention executive director-treasurer has issued the challenge. It’s time for Florida Baptists to follow our leader and meet this challenge. Thu, 13 May 2004 00:00:00 -0900 It’s the closest thing to a constitutional crisis Southern Baptists have faced in many years. <br><br> Two Southern Baptist Convention entities, the Executive Committee and New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary – both made up of Bible-believing members and executives who are fully committed to the SBC, including its recent theological reformation under the “Conservative Resurgence” – have come to starkly different conclusions on the matter of whether “sole membership” is the best legal option to protect Southern Baptists’ interests in one of its entities. The result is a stalemate with both entities’ boards voting in recent months to take completely contradictory positions with the prospect of a messy floor debate in Indianapolis during the annual meeting of the SBC. Thu, 06 May 2004 00:00:00 -0900 A few weeks ago, my parents retired from full-time Christian work after many years of ministry and they’re moving to Florida (of course!). Thinking about their retirement has caused me to remember all that they have done to serve not only the churches in which they have ministered, but also myself and their six other children. Thu, 29 Apr 2004 00:00:00 -0900 In a remarkably short period of time, the homosexual lobby has so successfully pressed its claims that America is now on the verge of a massive redefinition of the most fundamental institution of society – marriage. Catapulted by a Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruling and the highly celebrated actions of a few politicians across the nation, the prospect of a marriage revolution has now become a central issue in American life – and will undoubtedly be a key factor in the 2004 presidential contest. Thu, 22 Apr 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Just as Florida Speaker Johnnie Byrd (R-Plant City) has rightly and courageously championed putting a constitutional amendment on the ballot requiring parental notice for minors seeking abortions, he should now support legislation to change statutes which currently permit minors to be subjected to execution. Thu, 08 Apr 2004 00:00:00 -0900 This Lord's Day Christians around the world will celebrate the glorious resurrection of Jesus. As the Scriptures report and believers from the First Century forward have testified, on the third day after His burial, Jesus arose from the grave leaving behind an empty tomb. Thu, 01 Apr 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Self-proclaimed atheist Michael Newdow should thank God that he lives in America. <br><br> The very ability of Newdow to claim that the phrase “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance violates the Constitution is based on our founding documents’ recognition that certain rights are “inalienable” because they are granted to every person – by God! Thu, 25 Mar 2004 00:00:00 -0900 <p>When they awoke March 15, 2004, even in their risk-prone place of ministry, I doubt that our five missionaries gave much thought to the possibility that they would die that very day. But it’s clear from various news accounts about these Southern Baptist martyrs that all of them had resigned themselves to that possible fate before leaving for Iraq.</p> Thu, 18 Mar 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Will March 8, 2004, be remembered as the day Iraq enshrined freedom of conscience in its constitution or will future Iraqis look back on this day with deep remorse as a time of ephemeral promise destroyed by Islamic rejection of authentic and vibrant religious liberty? <br><br> The historic ceremony of the Iraqi Governing Council's 25 members unanimously signing its interim constitution causes me to wonder if among those Muslim leaders there is a modern-day James Madison or two who will champion religious freedom as an inalienable right in the new Iraq as Madison did at America's founding. Or will the provisions in the interim constitution which seem to protect freedom of conscience fail to remain when the nation is scheduled to ratify its permanent constitution late next year? Thu, 11 Mar 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Florida minors cannot get body piercing, be married or be employed on a movie set without parental consent, but a girl can terminate a pregnancy without her parent's approval - or even their knowledge - in the Sunshine State. <br><br> This is the immoral and illogical state of the law in Florida today because the state Supreme Court has repeatedly overturned laws to require parental involvement in minors' abortion decisions. And it's long past time to ensure that the state does not stand between parents and girls who are struggling with an unplanned pregnancy. Thu, 04 Mar 2004 00:00:00 -0900 America’s debate about "gay marriage" reached a new level of intensity last week when President George W. Bush endorsed a constitutional amendment to define marriage as the union of one man and one woman after the recent actions of judges in Massachusetts and the mayor of San Francisco left the president no other option. <br><br> "After more than two centuries of American jurisprudence, and millennia of human experience, a few judges and local authorities are presuming to change the most fundamental institution of civilization. Their actions have created confusion on an issue that requires clarity," President Bush said in a Feb. 24 announcement. Thu, 26 Feb 2004 00:00:00 -0900 As if there hasn’t been enough ink spilled on the subject, forgive my humble effort at engaging the cultural phenomenon known as, "The Passion of The Christ." Mel Gibson’s controversial film is now in theaters after months of media attention and Christian curiosity has made the movie one of the most anticipated works to come to the big screen in years. Thu, 19 Feb 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Can a company that has built its corporate identity around blatant perversity be influenced by concerned consumers to change its ways? In the case of Abercrombie & Fitch, the trendy clothier known in recent years for truly pornographic catalog, the answer seems to be a surprising, "Yes!" Thu, 05 Feb 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Wait until the Supreme Court hears about this! <br><br> Last week, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals based in Atlanta upheld Florida’s statute banning adoptions by homosexuals in a unanimous 3-0 decision. The recent, seemingly unstoppable homosexual rights juggernaut was dealt a stunning setback in a Jan. 28, 2004, ruling that is marked by refreshing common sense — which is one reason why the U.S. Supreme Court is not likely to let it stand. Thu, 29 Jan 2004 00:00:00 -0900 Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer recently got a lesson in the true meaning of being "pro-choice" on abortion. It’s a lesson worth learning for Christian citizens who defend the sanctity of human life and wish to advocate that conviction in the Public Square. Thu, 15 Jan 2004 00:00:00 -0900 As Southern Baptist churches in Florida turn their hearts and minds to the matter of the sanctity of human life this coming Lord’s Day, it’s appropriate to consider where things stand as a matter of law in the Sunshine State. How friendly or unfriendly is Florida law when it comes to protecting the unborn and providing pro-life alternatives to women with unplanned pregnancies? Thu, 08 Jan 2004 00:00:00 -0900 It’s that time of year again when, on the occasion of the New Year, many of us resolve to amend our behavior, attempt new things and improve personal habits. Yes, those dreaded New Year’s resolutions. Thu, 18 Dec 2003 00:00:00 -0900 President George W. Bush is wrong about the "Almighty" — that the God of Christianity is the same deity worshipped by Muslims. And that truth is no more clear than during this time of year when we celebrate the incarnation of God Himself in the person of His Son, Jesus Christ — the very God rejected by Muslims. Thu, 18 Dec 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Abercrombie & Fitch, the popular youth clothier known in recent years for its pornographic quarterly catalog, announced Dec. 9 a change in marketing direction, including canceling publication of the catalog. The previous week, A&F confirmed that the company pulled the Christmas catalog from its stores, while denying that the action was related to the growing controversy or that it indicated any change in direction. (For more on the controversy, see previous editorials – July 12, 2001, Nov. 8, 2001, May 30, 2002 and Dec. 4, 2003, and last week’s update.) Thu, 11 Dec 2003 00:00:00 -0900 (Parents, this editorial is not suitable for children) <br><br> Hollywood got an early Christmas present this year when the Federal Communications Commission recently endorsed indecent speech on the nation’s airwaves—something that seemed impossible in our already terribly indecent television and radio programming— and made the job of parenting just a little bit harder in the process. Thu, 04 Dec 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Although the game is not yet over, score one for the good guys! <br><br> After more than three years of efforts, it appears that trendy clothier Abercrombie & Fitch has knuckled under the pressure and pulled its latest pornographic "magalog" which regularly features naked and partially naked young people and other pornographic material for the purpose of selling its products. Thu, 27 Nov 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Are Southern Baptists experiencing a depression of missions commitment? <br><br> This year — for the first time since the Great Depression of the 1930s — the Southern Baptist International Mission Board was forced to limit the number of missionaries that are sent to help reach the world for Christ. And it’s not because Southern Baptists are not willing to go. While the number of missionaries desiring to serve across the globe has increased nearly 9 percent in the last three years, giving to the Southern Baptist Cooperative Program and the annual Lottie Moon Christmas Offering — the IMB’s two main streams of financial support — have increased by only 1.1 percent and 1.8 percent, respectively. Thu, 20 Nov 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Was that a Baptist meeting I just attended in Tampa? Whatever happened to the maxim: Where there are two Baptists, there are three opinions? Apparently this humorous aphorism doesn’t apply in the Sunshine State; at least it did not for the 142nd annual meeting of the Florida Baptist State Convention. Thu, 13 Nov 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Reading the newspapers and watching the cable news accounts of the now internationally known Terri Schiavo controversy, one would assume that the passions and motivations in this case are fueled solely by the religious worldview of pro-life Catholics, conservative evangelicals and other members of the so-called “Religious Right.” As usual, the major media are missing an important part of this story – there is another worldview in play in the Schiavo debate advocated chiefly by the famous attorney of the case, George Felos. Thu, 23 Oct 2003 00:00:00 -0900 What follows is an exchange of e-mails with a reader who initially objected to my Oct. 2 editorial, "‘Baptistipalians’ compromise biblical truth." It is published here—with the permission of the reader—in the hope that it may be helpful to other readers who may share the same concerns about an important issue which increasingly faces our churches. At my suggestion and with his approval, I have changed the reader’s name in order to protect his anonymity. Thu, 09 Oct 2003 00:00:00 -0900 "The best Baptists are informed Baptists." <br><br> We all know this maxim to be true. For Florida Baptists, the best way to be an informed Baptist is by subscribing to Florida Baptist Witness. Thu, 02 Oct 2003 00:00:00 -0900 As Anglican leaders meet later this month in London for an emergency session to determine how they will respond to the approval of the election of a homosexual bishop by the Episcopal Church USA, Baptists would do well to pay careful attention. In small, sometimes imperceptible ways some among us are taking the same steps which have led to the Episcopalian crisis. Thu, 25 Sep 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Terri Schindler Schiavo’s execution date has been set. Unlike criminals on death row who are given a last meal of their choice before the state administers their punishment, Schiavo—guilty of no crime but the misfortune of her marriage to a man determined to end her life—will have no last meal; her means of execution is starvation. Thu, 11 Sep 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Two years removed from the America’s newest "day of infamy" is an appropriate time to reflect on our nation’s spiritual condition. And it should ignite a greater evangelistic and missionary passion in the hearts of Florida Baptists as we conclude our annual season of prayer and giving for the Maguire State Mission Offering. Thu, 04 Sep 2003 00:00:00 -0900 A five-year legal battle to remove the feeding tube of Terri Schindler Schiavo seems to be nearing its end-with the death of the 39 year-old, brain-damaged woman seemingly imminent. The determined effort of Michael Schiavo-acting as her legal guardian-to starve his wife to death may be realized in just a few weeks. Thu, 28 Aug 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Although he doesn’t see it the way I do, I regret to report that Gov. Jeb Bush has broken a promise. In spite of the opposition of anti-gambling forces which had found HB 1059 to be an expansion of gambling, Gov. Bush allowed the bill to become law Aug. 5 when he failed to sign or veto the bill. On May 16 the Florida Baptist State Convention's State Board of Missions unanimously urged the governor to veto the bill. In a May 15 editorial, I asked Florida Baptists to urge Gov. Bush to veto the bill. Thu, 07 Aug 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Is there a spontaneous movement of God occurring among Southern Baptists in response to recent news that our International Mission Board was required recently to curtail missionary appointments due to lack of support? Thu, 24 Jul 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Thousands of Baptists descended on Phoenix last month for the Southern Baptist Convention and many, including my son and I, visited Arizona’s most stunning attraction—the Grand Canyon. As I observed in a June 19 editorial, " Petroglyphics and the creative greatness of God " it was disappointing that there was very limited recognition of the Creator at the Grand Canyon and Arizona’s other natural attractions. Thu, 17 Jul 2003 00:00:00 -0900 On a fairly regular basis, I’m asked why Florida Baptists must pay a subscription fee to receive <em>Florida Baptist Witness</em>. The assumption, apparently held by some, is that anyone who wishes to receive the <em>Witness</em> should be able to do so without charge. Even more troubling is the notion of a few that they have a "right" to get the <em>Witness</em> for free. Thu, 03 Jul 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Last week’s Supreme Court ruling in Lawrence v. Texas joins Roe v. Wade as the twin pillars of America’s jurisprudential assault on biblical standards of morality. Homosexuality now enjoys the same "right to privacy" that gave America abortion on demand. Thu, 26 Jun 2003 00:00:00 -0900 In spite of their best efforts, enemies of the Southern Baptist Convention were unable to conjure up a controversy out of this year’s annual meeting in Phoenix. Yes, there were the homosexual “Christians,” anarchists and Baptist peace activists who protested the SBC, doing their best to glob onto us for free press. And reporters were poised with their word processors warmed and ready for speakers to let loose on Islam, homosexuality or some other hot topic. Although the preaching and activities of this annual meeting were similar to past meetings that have garnered more attention, the press failed to find (or create) a spark of controversy. Thu, 19 Jun 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Sometimes it takes a change of scenery to be reminded of just how amazing God’s creation really is. Of course, the Sunshine State has its own remarkable natural displays–from its beautiful beaches, to its many lakes, to its lovely forests. For those who will see it, the nature of Florida is a clear testimony of God’s creation. Still, the change of scenery my son, Andrew, and I were exposed to this week in Arizona offered a striking reminder of the wonder of God’s creation. Thu, 12 Jun 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Did God know 9/11 was going to happen? Was the Creator and Sustainer of the universe and humanity, the God who intervenes in the affairs of man throughout Holy Scripture surprised by the plans and the deeds of evil men who brought terror to America? Did God shift to Plan B in reaction to this terrible assault on our nation? Thu, 22 May 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Is it time to close Blue Springs Baptist Assembly? <br><br> That question dominated discussions last week at the State Board of Missions meeting. The consideration of the matter was prompted by a preliminary report from a special Funding Source Committee (FSC) that recommended “Florida Baptist Convention look toward aggressively ceasing operations ... by the end of the year (2003) and selling the property as soon as possible, with the understanding that funds realized from the sale of Blue Springs will be used to upgrade facilities at Lake Yale Baptist Assembly.” Thu, 15 May 2003 00:00:00 -0900 As Governor Jeb Bush ponders whether to sign HB 1059, a bill that would allow gambling card rooms at pari-mutuel facilities, I hope he will consider the recent example of Bill Bennett and realize that the Sunshine State should not do anything that may result in others following his path. Thu, 08 May 2003 00:00:00 -0900 If God's people don't help children in need, they fail to truly serve Christ in this world. In contrast, providing assistance to abused, neglected and forgotten children is a clear evidence of Christians who are determined to live according to the missionary mandate of our Lord. Thu, 01 May 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Nothing ignites the attack dogs of the liberal media elite and their fellow travelers in government and the political lobbies like a politician who has the audacity to defend the traditional model of the family and criticize certain sexual lifestyles as "antithetical to a healthy, stable, traditional family." Thu, 17 Apr 2003 00:00:00 -0900 As we go to press April 14, the Florida Legislature is furiously working on a torrent of legislation that needs the attention of Florida Baptists. An article on page six highlights a very positive development in a House committee-the adoption of the Women's Health and Safety Act, as well as a very positive development in a Senate committee-the tabling of a pro-homosexual rights bill, the so-called "Dignity for All Students Act." Thu, 10 Apr 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Whatever your view of the ethics of the war in Iraq, all of us can play a part in galvanizing support for that beleaguered nation. As with previous crises around the world, Southern Baptists are taking the lead to bring a “cup of cold water” in Jesus’ name. Thu, 03 Apr 2003 00:00:00 -0900 In the early weeks of America's war on Saddam Hussein's evil regime in Iraq, our citizens have been urged to pray for those who bravely serve our nation through the armed forces, as well as to pray for family members left behind. This is fitting and proper; those who have volunteered to defend the freedom we enjoy indeed deserve the thanks and prayerful support of the rest of us. We should pray for those who serve-especially those on the front lines in the heat of battle. Thu, 27 Mar 2003 00:00:00 -0900 After political pundits first began to emerge from their rhetorical foxholes in the early weeks and months following the 9/11 terrorist assaults on America, these professional talkers – at first in tentative suggestions and questions, and later in accusatory assertions and demands – decried the failure of our government’s intelligence agencies to “connect the dots.” Why, they asked repeatedly, did we not see 9/11 coming? Thu, 20 Mar 2003 00:00:00 -0900 What should Florida Baptists have to say about our United States Senators-Bob Graham and Bill Nelson-who voted with pro-abortion minorities three times last week in an attempt to prevent the passage of the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003? At the very least, "Shame on you." Thu, 06 Mar 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Bob Faw's Feb. 25 "NBC Nightly News" report on Jerry Vines and religious rhetoric against Islam was intended, like other media assaults on evangelicals since 9/11, as a cheap shot against Baptists and our leaders for the purpose of ostracizing and, therefore, marginalizing this politically incorrect segment of the American populace. The national news media wish to propagate its agenda of so-called tolerance in order to undermine the core truth of the Christian Gospel, in Jesus' own words: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through me" (John 14:6). Thu, 27 Feb 2003 00:00:00 -0900 I wish you could have been there. If you had, it wouldn't be necessary to convince you of the urgency of the matter: If Florida Baptists don't pray and act on our beliefs, the Legislature may adopt a dramatic and harmful expansion of gambling in our state. Thu, 20 Feb 2003 00:00:00 -0900 If you let it, the news these days can really set your nerves on edge: * Osama bin Laden speaks again; * America's homeland security status is raised to high alert; * Iraqi President Sadaam Hussein continues a game of deception regarding his weapons of mass destruction, further increasing the likelihood of war; * North Korea kicks out U.N. nuclear arms inspectors and brags about violations of agreements requiring its nuclear disarmament. Thu, 13 Feb 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Starting Nov. 14, 2002, Florida Baptist Witness introduced a new phase in our mission to serve Florida Baptists by "publishing Good News about God's work" - now, by means of the Internet. Launched in tandem with the first major redesign of the print edition in seven years, the Witness is now available every week online at our new, user-friendly Web site: www.FloridaBaptistWitness.com. Thu, 06 Feb 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Tragedy, it seems, can become almost routine. <br><br> The nation watched in horror as the space shuttle Columbia hurtled to the earth, the latest in a series of nationally broadcast disasters. Tragedies, on a much smaller scale, happen every day, apart from the glare of the cameras. Someone says goodbye at the grave of a loved one. Another closes the door for the last time on a failed business. Someone else hears the doctor’s diagnosis: yes, it is cancer.</P> Thu, 30 Jan 2003 00:00:00 -0900 In the wake of voters' adoption of an expensive class-size reduction amendment in November, other social spending demands and a struggling economy, state lawmakers will face the daunting challenge of balancing the state's $50 billion budget in the new legislative session. And one leading lawmaker has an idea for how to make-up the projected $2 billion revenue shortfall—expansion of gambling in the Sunshine State. Thu, 23 Jan 2003 00:00:00 -0900 The sacredness and intrinsic value of human life demands that a moral society protect the unborn and execute its most heinous murderers. Opposition to abortion and support for the death penalty are not only ethically consistent, they are both required by a biblical worldview. Thu, 16 Jan 2003 00:00:00 -0900 Brace yourself for the onslaught.<br><br>Complete with a new name and national media campaign, the leading pro-abortion political lobby now called "NARAL: Pro-Choice America" will assault your senses this month with a multi-million dollar effort that seeks to reassert the pro-abortion lobby's public policy agenda in the face of new prospects for pro-life legislation in Congress - and to set the stage for the 2004 presidential election. (And you thought you were in for a well-deserved break from politics after the mid-term elections in November.) Thu, 09 Jan 2003 00:00:00 -0900 "We are devastated by this news."<br><br> Those words, uttered by the International Mission Board's Larry Cox, probably captured the immediate reaction of every Southern Baptist to the Dec. 30 murder of our three medical missionaries in Yemen. The worldwide campaign of Islamic terrorism has now claimed Southern Baptist martyrs. Thu, 28 Nov 2002 00:00:00 -0900 In a post-9/11 world, international missions may be as difficult as the earliest days of the Christian church. Perhaps never has there been a day with seemingly boundless opportunities matched with extraordinary difficulty. Even while many regions of the world are newly open to Gospel missionaries, the emergence of radical Islam threatens Christians - and especially Americans, even in our own homeland, as 9/11 so graphically demonstrated. Thu, 21 Nov 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Ten years ago, Vice President Dan Quayle sent shockwaves through the media elite when he had the temerity to criticize the CBS comedy "Murphy Brown" for its depiction of a single woman who intentionally chose to become pregnant out-of-wedlock and raise the child without a father. The nearly universal reaction from Hollywood and its fellow travelers in New York and Washington was to ridicule Quayle. Speaking at the Southern Baptist Convention in Indianapolis later that year, Quayle retorted, "I wear their scorn as a badge of honor." Thu, 14 Nov 2002 00:00:00 -0900 The ministry of Florida Baptist Witness has been strengthened recently by the adoption of a new mission statement by our Board of Commissioners. The new statement says: <br><br> "Florida Baptist Witness publishes Good News about God's work that edifies, educates, exhorts and empowers Florida Baptists to glorify God and extend His Kingdom." Thu, 07 Nov 2002 00:00:00 -0900 If you’re really paying attention to the news (which requires consulting the best news sources — including Florida Baptist Witness), it’s impossible to miss. A week does not pass without another notice about the persecution of Christians around the globe. One day it’s Indonesia, the next it’s Saudi Arabia. Christian martyrs in Sudan are all too common, and now North Korea is back on the radar screen (see article on page one). Thu, 31 Oct 2002 00:00:00 -0900 How many of you will sin on Nov. 5th by failing to vote? Have you ever considered the idea that it is a sin to fail to vote when you are qualified to do so? I believe it’s clear from Scripture that Christians should be the best citizens a nation has to offer. And in a nation such as ours, where the citizens direct the course of our government, the failure to participate in the most fundamental way we have to provide direction to our government cannot be seen to be anything less than a sin for qualified Christian citizens to fail to vote. Thu, 24 Oct 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Florida voters soon will have the opportunity to shape their future through the ballot box. We will be asked to choose our leaders for local, state and federal government. While a close contest between Governor Jeb Bush and challenger Bill McBride has garnered much attention, most voters are unaware that they will be confronted with 10 ballot initiatives to decide public policy on diverse issues from classroom size to protection for pregnant pigs. Thu, 10 Oct 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always "on call," subject sometimes to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better, generally poorly compensated and live in a fishbowl under constant scrutiny. And those are just Mondays! Thu, 03 Oct 2002 00:00:00 -0900 We all know this maxim to be true: "The best Baptists are informed Baptists." For Florida Baptists, the best way to be an informed Baptist is by subscribing to the Florida Baptist Witness. Thu, 26 Sep 2002 00:00:00 -0900 On the heels of a narrow victory in Miami in a Sept. 10 referendum where voters retained a pro-homosexual amendment, the homosexual political lobby is now training its sights on Orlando as the next major city in Florida to create civil rights protections for its sexual promiscuity. And Orlando Christians may be the deciding factor in whether the city approves a proposed amendment to its anti-discrimination ordinance. Thu, 12 Sep 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Recent days in our country have been dominated by remembrances of the 9/11 attacks, their aftermath and, especially, the heroes who have emerged since one of the darkest days of American history. It’s fitting that we remember these events and recommit ourselves to our nation as our soldiers fight the war on terrorism. Thu, 05 Sep 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Sept. 11 — the day that many of us had hoped would ignite a spiritual revival in America — did not result in spiritual change for the better, it seems clear nearly one year later. Further, there’s great irony in the fact that there is a growing acceptance of Islam in America in spite of the undeniable truth that it was indeed Muhammad’s religion that was the prime motivator for the terrorists who attacked us on that terrible day. Thu, 15 Aug 2002 00:00:00 -0900 In a courageous and prophetic stand, Miami Baptists have announced their support of an effort to repeal a Miami-Dade ordinance which gives civil rights protections to homosexual persons. The leadership of the Miami Baptist Association should be commended for its Executive Board’s adoption of a statement supporting the Sept. 10 referendum on the ordinance. (See article on page one and statement on page 11 for more details.) Thu, 04 Jul 2002 00:00:00 -0900 The June 26 ruling declaring the Pledge of Allegiance unconstitutional sent shockwaves of outrage across the nation. The ruling written by Judge Alfred T. Goodwin and affirmed by a three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals created a torrent of overwhelmingly negative response resounding from the nation’s capital as the president and virtually the entire U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives eagerly proclaimed their anger and opposition to the ruling. Thu, 27 Jun 2002 00:00:00 -0900 In a May 16 editorial I warned readers about plans on the Nickelodeon cable network to air a program aimed at children with the purpose of advocating the homosexual lifestyle. Hosted and produced by liberal activist Linda Ellerbee, the "Nick News" program "My Family is Different" aired June 18 and was in fact everything I feared it would be. Thu, 20 Jun 2002 00:00:00 -0900 "Brother, we have arrived at a new level." Those words were spoken to me by Jack Wilkerson of the Executive Committee on the floor of the Southern Baptist Convention last week as we witnessed the scene of homosexual protesters attempting to disrupt SBC President James Merritt’s address. Thu, 13 Jun 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Like most of our fathers, my dad is not well known; he is not wealthy; and as the pastor of a small Baptist church in West Virginia, he is not likely to gain either before his days are done. However, my father is the most important man in my life - period. Thu, 06 Jun 2002 00:00:00 -0900 The Baptist General Convention of Texas is leaving the Southern Baptist Convention. It will not likely happen officially this year or next year or maybe even the year after, but all the signs of departure are present for anyone willing to face the facts. Thu, 30 May 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Abercrombie & Fitch has somehow found a way to sink to a new low in its promotion of sexual promiscuity and deviance. The trendy clothier that markets to teens and college students and has been known for several years for its practically pornographic quarterly catalogs recently attempted to introduce thongs for children in its stores and on its online catalog. After national media attention and a torrent of criticism, A&F quietly pulled the product from its shelves. Thu, 16 May 2002 00:00:00 -0900 If anyone doubts the truly proselytizing nature of the homosexual movement, one need only consider the case of "Nick News" on the cable television network, Nickelodeon. <br><br> But isn’t Nickelodeon the place to watch kids getting "slimed" for a wrong answer on a game show or find re-runs of old television shows? Nickelodeon, after all, bills itself as a network parents can trust. Thu, 09 May 2002 00:00:00 -0900 If we were to be honest with ourselves, we would all have to admit that there are times in our lives when we wonder if we are making a difference. Does what we do on a day-to-day basis have eternal consequences that matter in the Kingdom of God? What is the legacy that will remain when we leave this world? Thu, 02 May 2002 00:00:00 -0900 The United States Senate will soon vote on legislation that may mark a truly historic turning point in American history, as well as the very notion of what it means to be human. The question is: will history look kindly on the decision of our senators? The answer will be yes only if the Senate joins the House of Representatives in adopting a true, total ban on human cloning. Thu, 25 Apr 2002 00:00:00 -0900 A startling survey by George Barna released last summer demonstrates how desperate the need is for Southern Baptists and other evangelicals to reassert the importance of doctrine in our churches and to "contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints" (Jude 3). Thu, 18 Apr 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Sometimes the things we know to be true appear to be so simply because we don't know enough. We have accepted without evaluation what we have been told. Thu, 11 Apr 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Why reprint this essay? <BR><BR> While doing research for an editorial on the controversy concerning the request of the International Mission Board and North American Mission Board missionaries to affirm the latest edition of the Baptist Faith and Message, I was captivated by an essay by E.Y. Mullins titled, "Baptists and Creeds." Although the writing style may seem a bit strange to our 21st century ears, I urge you to take the trouble to read it fully and consider what it may say to us today. Thu, 21 Mar 2002 00:00:00 -0900 It was impossible to miss talk show host Rosie O’Donnell’s March 14 "coming out" celebration on Disney-owned ABC television and the torrent of news media coverage that followed. In a heavily promoted special two-hour "Primetime Thursday" broadcast, as well as generous excerpts on "Good Morning America" and "World News Tonight," O’Donnell announced to an unsurprised world that she is "gay." Thu, 14 Mar 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Those of us who believe in the sanctity of human life have several opportunities to speak our convictions to those who make our laws in Washington and Tallahassee over the next few weeks. Both in the waning days of the Florida legislature and in the U.S. Senate, critical legislation is under active consideration that would do much to defend human life in the midst of a culture that increasingly devalues human life. Fri, 08 Mar 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Here we go again. <br><br> Late last month the House of Representatives again passed the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act (H.R. 4965) by a wide and bipartisan margin of 274-151. Twice before, in 1996 and 1997, the Senate joined the House in passing this crucial, common sense legislation only to have the bill rejected by President Bill Clinton. Although the House was able muster the two-thirds vote to override Clinton’s reprehensible vetoes, the Senate could not. And so, the bill languished in Congress. Thu, 07 Mar 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Floridians are twice as likely as other Americans to be at risk for developing gambling problems and our state has double the percentage of problem and compulsive gamblers according to a new study by the University of Florida. Even while such troubling news was coming from Gainesville, hordes of gambling lobbyists had descended on Tallahassee to push for the most aggressive expansion of gambling in the Sunshine State since the lottery was legalized more than a decade ago. Thu, 28 Feb 2002 00:00:00 -0900 A recent policy recommendation by a committee of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is one time when we shouldn’t follow our doctors’ advice, especially when the diagnosis and prescription of these pediatricians on the matter of same-sex parenting will actually harm children. Thu, 21 Feb 2002 00:00:00 -0900 The next time you purchase a new Bible, my advice is that you not choose the soon-to-be-released Today’s New International Version (TNIV) — that is, if you believe it’s important to have a Bible translation that accurately renders God’s Word. In spite of the claims of its proponents, it’s clear to me that political correctness has trumped accuracy in the TNIV. Thu, 14 Feb 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Marriages between twentysomethings that fail in less than five years and produce no children has gained a new, chic moniker — "Starter Marriages" — which is also the title of a new book, The Starter Marriage and The Future of Matrimony. Thu, 31 Jan 2002 00:00:00 -0900 One of the most deplorable after-shocks of Sept. 11 has been the growing and outrageously irresponsible practice of leading journalists to casually equate evangelical Christians with the murderous, totalitarian Taliban, and their hero, the heinous Osama bin Laden. Thu, 24 Jan 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Imagine that tomorrow as you are going about your regular routine you come upon a man in your neighborhood collecting donations "to kill Christians," as the sign on his canister announced. Far-fetched, you might think. For some Christians in Indonesia this incident is common. For other Christians across the globe, persecution is a daily danger and reality. And, most Christians in America seem not to know about the plight of their fellow believers or, even worse, care about them. Thu, 17 Jan 2002 00:00:00 -0900 Some who oppose abortion in America concentrate their efforts on changing laws to protect human life. Others prefer to be involved in hands-on mercy giving ministry to help women in crisis pregnancies. The first might be called the public policy wing of the movement, while the latter is often called the compassionate wing. Thu, 03 Jan 2002 00:00:00 -0900 "By the time we reach the 21st century, the R&E will be a true Baptist journal – for the nation and beyond." — Roy Honeycutt, former president of Southern Seminary, on the occasion of the removal of Review & Expositor from Southern Seminary, March 1996 Thu, 20 Dec 2001 00:00:00 -0900 When one thinks about the meaning and message of Christmas the miracle that God became man in the person of Jesus Christ must immediately come to mind. The Apostle John declared, "And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:14, NASB). Thu, 06 Dec 2001 00:00:00 -0900 On Nov. 25 a Brave New World arrived ushering in the most heinous assault on the sanctity of human life since Jan. 22, 1973, when the United States Supreme Court legalized abortion on demand in the infamous Roe v. Wade case. History should not look kindly on the day that Advanced Cell Technology, a Massachusetts-based biotech company, announced that it had successfully cloned the first human embryo. Thu, 29 Nov 2001 00:00:00 -0900 The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 have had enormous ripple effects across America and around the world. I think it could be reasonably argued that there has never been a time in world history when the actions of so few individuals have affected so many. Whether it is economics, politics, entertainment, travel or a myriad of other facets of daily life, Sept. 11 has altered our lives, in some ways, permanently. Thu, 22 Nov 2001 00:00:00 -0900 I’ll call it "Theological Weakest Link." As Josh McDowell spontaneously lunged into the audience Nov. 13 at the Florida Baptist State Convention, you could almost sense Florida Baptists in the Lakeland Center’s Youkey Theater collectively scooting down in their seats hoping (and perhaps praying) that the fiery former atheist would not make one of them his next illustration of evangelical incompetence in standing against the onslaught of moral relativism. (See page one, "McDowell: ‘Church has lost the right to judge,’" for our story on his address.) Thu, 15 Nov 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptists need to take note of the legal shenanigans underway these days in the Missouri Baptist Convention. It is a cautionary tale from which we must be careful to learn. Thu, 08 Nov 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Many pro-family advocates were cheered by the news last month that Abercrombie & Fitch (A&F), publishers of an essentially pornographic quarterly clothing catalog, pulled publication of its 2001 holiday catalog. While it’s a promising development, it’s much too early to declare victory against this purveyor of indecent material. Thu, 25 Oct 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Nearly a month after the United States began military action against the Taliban regime of Afghanistan and with the prospect of a multi-year war against terrorism around the world, voices of opposition are growing louder in the U.S. and around the world. These persons argue that military action is always wrong or that President George W. Bush has not made the case for a just war. Thu, 18 Oct 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Why would anyone want to be a pastor? It has got to be one of the most thankless jobs around. Pastors are always on the firing line, always "on call," sometimes subject to unruly church members who are certain they know how to do the job better, generally poorly compensated, and live in a fishbowl under constant scrutiny. And those are just Mondays! Thu, 11 Oct 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Ladies and gentlemen, we are beginning another front in our war against terrorism, so freedom can prevail over fear." <br><br> In this short statement White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer informed Americans and the rest of the world on Oct. 7, that the United States and its allies had begun military strikes against the Taliban regime in Afghanistan in response to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on America. Moments later President George W. Bush addressed nation. Thu, 27 Sep 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Like many Americans, I have shed many tears since Sept. 11. Our nation has experienced profound grief since that horrible day. Thu, 20 Sep 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Shortly after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, September 11—a date that is now etched in the nation’s collective conscienceness—I emerged from a meeting to the news that two airplanes had crashed into New York’s World Trade Center. Thu, 13 Sep 2001 00:00:00 -0900 The best Baptists are informed Baptists. We all know this maxim to be true. For Florida Baptists, the best way to be an informed Baptist is by subscribing to the Florida Baptist Witness. Thu, 06 Sep 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Federal Judge James Lawrence King upheld Florida’s law prohibiting homosexuals from adopting children in a closely watched ruling handed down August 30. The decision was met immediately with criticism from homosexual activists, as well as promises to appeal the ruling that seems destined to be considered ultimately by the U.S. Supreme Court. Thu, 30 Aug 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Every Florida Baptist should give to the Maguire State Mission Offering. The goal for this year’s offering is $1,794,000 with 1 John 1:7 as the theme, "Shine the Light of Christ … in a world of darkness." Thu, 02 Aug 2001 00:00:00 -0900 A study by the George Barna Group released June 25 is shocking in what it reveals about doctrinal beliefs among Christians. It’s even more troubling in what it demonstrates about the theological laxity among Baptists. (See the story on page nine for further details.) Thu, 26 Jul 2001 00:00:00 -0900 The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship seems to see their organization as a kind of modern-day Noah’s Ark of disgruntled Baptists. The creatures on the boat come in all doctrinal stripes and shapes. The recent CBF General Assembly in Atlanta reveals just what a challenge it must be to keep this boat afloat. Thu, 19 Jul 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Sometimes it takes a pro-abortion liberal like Richard Cohen of The Washington Post to cut through the rhetoric and define what’s at stake. And that’s just the case in the ever-increasing debate in Washington concerning whether President Bush should authorize federal funding of research from the destruction of human embryos. Thu, 12 Jul 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Parents, do you know what clothing catalogs your teens are reading? If they include Abercrombie & Fitch, you will be in for a shocking revelation when you find it. Thu, 05 Jul 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Several news items in recent weeks demonstrate the fact that Boy Scouts of America is under direct assault from the radical homosexual lobby. Who will defend the Scouts against this attack? Thu, 21 Jun 2001 00:00:00 -0900 The Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting in New Orleans last week featured many wonderful speakers, reports, presentations and music. We have tried to capture some of the happenings in the Witness this week. There is much to be thankful for in our Southern Baptist Zion. I wonder, however, if complacency and apathy are also at work in SBC life. Thu, 14 Jun 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Florida Baptist leaders have declared July 1 as "Pray for Rain" Sunday to mobilize our churches to concerted supplication to the Father to bless our land with much needed rain. (See story on page one.) I pray that all Florida Baptist churches will take time during their July 1 worship services to participate in this special season of prayer. Thu, 07 Jun 2001 00:00:00 -0900 "I am not the editor of a newspaper and shall always try to do right and be good so that God will not make me one." <br><br> This amusing comment by American writer Mark Twain was shared with me recently by a colleague. Among the burdens of an editor Twain was glad not to bear, perhaps he had in mind dealing with Letters to the Editor. I’m confident God did make me an editor, even though letters from our readers are a challenge for me. Thu, 31 May 2001 00:00:00 -0900 A battle for the soul of the Bush Administration is now underway and you can play a part in determining who wins. What’s the battle about? Whether or not our tax dollars will be used to violate the sanctity of human life through federal funding of stem cell research from aborted children. Thu, 24 May 2001 00:00:00 -0900 In this week’s Florida Baptist Witness readers will find coverage of last week’s meeting of the State Board of Missions held at Lake Yale Baptist Assembly. It was my first opportunity to attend this strategic gathering and was a wonderful exposure to the breadth and depth of God’s favor on Florida Baptists. Thu, 17 May 2001 00:00:00 -0900 In my first three months as executive editor of the <em>Florida Baptist Witness</em> I have been asked often how I determine the content of each issue of the paper. It’s a reasonable question. In my first editorial, I explained my vision for the <em>Witness</em> and summarized the unique mission of our state paper. Those can be called the "why" questions. The "why" questions, however, do not touch on day-to-day decision-making. With this column, I will give an overview on the "how" question. Thu, 10 May 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Indeed, children are a blessing. Unfortunately, the Psalmist’s declaration (Ps. 127:3) frequently is not appreciated or practiced by some parents and other adults. That’s where the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes comes in; and so do we, through the annual Mother’s Day Offering. The goal for this year’s offering is $1.21 million. Thu, 03 May 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Anyone who may have doubted the necessity of the SBC controversy of the 1980’s and 1990’s need only look to a new commentary series published by Smyth & Helwys, a moderate Baptist publishing house based in Macon, Ga. A recent Associated Press story by veteran religion writer Richard Ostling provides a glimpse of what the two decade long Baptist battle was about and why it’s good that conservatives won. Thu, 26 Apr 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Witnessing opportunities happen sometimes when we are concentrating on ourselves. <br><br> Recently my wife and I were having dinner at a Jacksonville-area restaurant. <br><br> It was a wonderful occasion as Linda and I were taking stock of the blessings of having sold our house in Louisville and finding a house here. We were looking forward to getting the move behind us. Thu, 19 Apr 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Don’t believe everything you read. In the age of the Internet and e-mail this maxim has never been truer. Thu, 12 Apr 2001 00:00:00 -0900 This Lord’s Day Christians across the United States and around the world will celebrate the glorious resurrection of Jesus. As the Scriptures report and believers from the first century forward have testified, on the third day after his burial, Jesus arose from the grave leaving behind an empty tomb. Thu, 05 Apr 2001 00:00:00 -0900 It’s happened again: our tax dollars have been used to denigrate our most deeply held beliefs and, more importantly, blaspheme our Lord and Savior. Thu, 15 Mar 2001 00:00:00 -0900 The horrible shooting at a Santee, Calif., school last week, resulting in the death of two kids, has brought the predictable calls for gun control and other political answers to a great social ill that is plaguing our nation: kids killing kids. No doubt, Americans should consider whether new laws might be needed, as well as how to enforce more vigorously laws already on the books. But is that the best we can do? Thu, 08 Mar 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Any question about the true agenda of the so-called "pro-choice" lobby should have been answered by a lawsuit argued last week in Leon County. The National Organization for Women, along with a Palm Beach synagogue and three other plaintiffs, argued before Circuit Judge Nikki Clark that Florida’s Choose Life license plates should be recalled on the grounds that the message violates the First Amendment religion clauses. The lawsuit also contends the state should not promote one side in abortion politics. Thu, 01 Mar 2001 00:00:00 -0900 Baptists in Florida have been in the media spotlight in recent weeks concerning their involvement in Jewish evangelism. Thu, 22 Feb 2001 00:00:00 -0900 I re-read the headline three times before I realized the Baptist Press story actually said what I believed at first must have been an error. The Atlanta Baptist Association voted decisively Jan. 30 to affirm two homosexual-friendly congregations. Thu, 15 Feb 2001 00:00:00 -0900 With this issue I begin my editorship of the <em>Florida Baptist Witness</em>. I was honored and humbled by our Commission’s decision to elect me to this strategic position. The storied history of this venerable publication is one to which I’m privileged to contribute further chapters. The opportunity to serve here is a great gift from God "who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think" (Eph. 3:20).