The BMA of America Needs Help
I’m very careful not to try to come across as a know-it-all. After all, I’m a 31-year-old Pastor with only about a dozen years of experience. So I’m really glad when someone like Ed Stetzer writes what just happens to be on my heart as well. Ed is a part of the Southern Baptist Convention, so his comments address the SBC. But I see the same issues at work in the BMA of America, my own denomination, and a host of other conservative groups.
I would encourage you to read his article about stemming SBC membership decline.
Next week, I have an opportunity of which I feel very unworthy. I’ve been asked to preach the closing message of one of the BMA’s annual Missions Symposiums which will take place in Forney, Texas. I’m praying hard about the message, but the theme is already set – “Search & Rescue!” As I think about the sense of urgency with which we need to approach matters among our churches, here are some of the general thoughts swirling through my mind as I prepare…
- We’re more disconnected with our culture than we’ve ever been.
- Disconnecting with culture is praised by many as ’separation.’
- I believe in separation from sin and sinful thinking patterns, not from people.
- In our culture, we fight an intellectual and even informational battle for which we are ill-equipped.
- A whole generation is at stake.
- Jesus has the only answer – His infallible Word!
- Oh, we’re a bit illiterate on that front too! We need a revival of emphasis on God’s Word.
- Jesus is coming soon.
- Excellence matters!
- The story has never changed, we just need to learn to tell it well.
I know, a pretty disorganized list. I’ll post again as it begins to come together in the form of a message. Pray for me. I’m a bit overwhelmed by this opportunity and pray God uses it in my life and the lives of attendees.
Brandon is first and foremost a follower of Jesus Christ. He's a husband to 
you are on the money. and i hope to have a change to meet you in forney.
Chris’s last blog post..not your peeps but the poor
@Chris –
Thanks so much – I’d love to meet you as well – find me if I don’t find you and say “hello.”
Agreed. To take this one point further-I have minister friends that have left the BMA because they feel we as a denomination are more and more disconnecting from those we are trying to reach.
The BMA of America is undeniably on the downhill side of our life cycle. I tend to think we’re reaping what we’ve sown. In ignoring a lost culture, and the younger generation in particular, I think God is removing His hand of blessing from us. Those churches that are doing well are ones who have stemmed this tide in favor of connecting with the lost world and a growing generation.
we can say amen to agree, but ouch seems more appropriate. Me must find ways to change the hearts and minds of our leaders and workers if we are to succeed in what God has entrusted us with