Civility and Calvinism (Part Five)

Dr. Tom Ascol, pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral, FL, had this to report about the recent “Building Bridges” Conference:

They said it couldn’t be done. Many doubters–both friends and those who would not want to be so identified–thought a meeting on Calvinism sponsored by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Founders Ministries and hosted by LifeWay Christian Resources, simply could not be “pulled off.” The issues are too divisive, the rhetoric that has been employed by both “sides” in the debate within the SBC has been too hateful, there is not that much interest, there are too many more important things for us to be doing…these were among the rationales offered by those who thought this kind of meeting either could not or should not happen. It was done, and, by the grace of God, it was done beneficially. . . . The conference was marked by a gracious spirit. There was plain speaking, which we all desperately need. And for the most part that plain speech was communicated with real humility and boldness. That is too rare in our day. . . . I believe a Christ-like spirit permeated not only the presentations, but the times of singing and praying and fellowship around the tables. It was almost surreal to stand in meal lines and hear snippets of conversations taking place all around, with phrases like “imputation,” “common grace,” “compatibilism,” “free offer,” “libertarian freedom,” “decree” and “concurrence” being voiced. Despite what might have been expected, a common theme that ran through most of the presentations was the importance and centrality of the Gospel for Christian living and ministry. Speakers from both “sides” sounded the need to return to Christ-centered living and preaching. Another recurring theme is the need to admit and deal with the sad state of many–probably the majority–of our churches. Most Southern Baptist churches are dominated by members who show no signs of spiritual life. This robs God of His glory in His church, greatly hinders evangelism and undermines the pursuit of holiness. It is, in my estimation, the most serious issue that confronts Southern Baptists today. And it is not a “Calvinist” issue. It is a Gospel issue. . . . Have you ever witnessed Southern Baptist Calvinists and non-Calvinists pointedly challenging each other’s views and affirming their common convictions all the while maintaining genuine goodwill even to the point of actually enjoying each other’s company? In Dr. Akin’s talk he made this statement, “One of our problems has been semi-Arminians with an attitude and Calvinist with a chip on their shoulder.” Almost without exception those attitudes were absent from the conference. . . . But whether the naysayers increase or decrease, what I experienced in Ridgecrest gives me hope for the future and encouragement to redouble my efforts to work together with those committed to the recovery of the Gospel and the renewal of churches whether or not we see eye-to-eye on the five points of Calvinism. After demonstrating many points on which Bible believing Southern Baptists agree, Danny Akin concluded his presentation with this challenge to begin a “Great Commission Resurgence“: “So, will we live or will we die? Will we come together for life or fracture apart in death? I make my choice for life. It is my hope and my prayer that you will join me.” I unashamedly join him in his effort, and encourage others who are committed to the Gospel of God’s grace to do the same.

So, will we Southern Baptists live or will we die? Will we come together for life or fracture apart in death? As for me, I prefer to come together for life, but my honest concern is that too many others prefer to fracture for the sake of being “traditional Baptists.” If such a fracture is forced, so be it, but unless and until that time comes, I will imitate David and “Trust in the LORD, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. . . . Commit [my] way to the LORD, and trust also in Him. . . . Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; [I will] not fret–it only causes harm” (Psalm 37).