The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) is set to convene in Dallas this week, where delegates will discuss proposed resolutions calling for legal bans on pornography and a reversal of same-sex marriage legalization by the U.S. Supreme Court. The resolutions advocate for legislation on gender, marriage, and family grounded in what is interpreted as a biblically ordered creation. Additional calls include curbing sports betting and encouraging childbearing.
The annual meeting marks the 40th anniversary of a pivotal gathering in 1985, which affirmed a conservative takeover of the denomination. Current attendance is expected to be significantly lower, yet debates will likely reflect longstanding conservative positions on various social issues.
Proposals stipulate that legislation should align with their interpretation of natural law and divine design. Critics suggest such stances are theocratic, as they leave little room for differing beliefs about morality and governance.
In light of having conservative political allies in power, some of these resolutions appear politically viable. Notably, there’s discussion around defunding the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission due to perceived inefficacy, despite some backing from former SBC presidents. Amidst these controversies, divisions grow within the denomination regarding their response to social issues like immigration, particularly after statements suggesting the need for compassionate enforcement of laws.
Furthermore, the SBC is grappling with internal tensions over the status of women in pastoral roles, as an amendment to ban women pastors was narrowly rejected last year. The meeting occurs as the SBC faces a continued decline in membership but has recently seen an uptick in baptism numbers. Overall, the gathering reflects deep-rooted conservativism and ongoing debates about the future direction of the denomination.
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