Christianity
**SBC This Week**

A weekly news roundup from the Southern Baptist Convention as well as guest interviews from today’s top church leaders.

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Tornadoes wreak havoc across Mid-South, Southern Baptists respond Dec 17, 2021

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Episode #355

Tornadoes ripped across the Mid-South this past weekend and Southern Baptists have stepped up their relief efforts in response.

News Recap
Mid-South Tornadoes
Overnight storms leave death and destruction in five states – https://bit.ly/3p5ZXFQ
64 confirmed dead in Kentucky tornadoes; more than 100 unaccounted for – https://bit.ly/3yC9Eir
Southern Baptists establish relief sites, begin serving storm survivors – https://bit.ly/3E5RZQY
Financial gifts needed as Southern Baptists respond to December tornado outbreak – https://bit.ly/3yA60W4
Southern Baptists arriving to help in ‘mammoth’ tornado recovery – https://bit.ly/3dZz67I
GuideStone working to help storm victims – https://bit.ly/3yAfAs4
In tornado’s wake, a church and pastor turn to God, service – https://bit.ly/30AYNZr
Litton, Wright visit storm-ravaged town, see Southern Baptist cooperation ‘at its best’ – https://bit.ly/3F7K0nR
Stone withdraws lawsuit against Moore – https://bit.ly/30Bi3G5
Houston church records more than 1,100 decisions for Christ at Christmas performances – https://bit.ly/3FaiI0g
Lifeway India launches first-of-its-kind ‘Telugu Study Bible’ – https://bit.ly/3F4tVj2
Iorg presses graduates to ‘stand firm’ – https://bit.ly/30Dt7mc
Dew urged graduates to pursue Christ as their ultimate purpose – https://bit.ly/3p3p3F0

This Week in SBC History
Top Ten Stories from around the SBC in 1959
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/1403,19-Dec-1959.pdf
All the upheaval and disruption of the last two years has left many asking, “What does ministry look like now?” The Ministry Now Conference will answer this question. On March 22-24, experienced ministry leaders from across the nation will gather at Southwestern Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, to explore how God’s churches can thrive in this ever-changing ministry context. Founded on an unyielding commitment to biblical truth, built by expert practitioners, and designed to encourage and equip God’s people in every area of ministry, this gathering will empower you to live your calling— wherever you serve God. So join us in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 22-24. Discounted registration ends January 15, so reserve your tickets now at swbts.edu/ministrynow2022.

Resources of the Week
Amy: Rebekah: An American Surgeon in India
Jonathan: Send Relief

Pastors’ Conference speakers announced; CP giving remains above budget Dec 10, 2021

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Episode #354

SBC Pastors’ Conference President Matt Henslee has announced the speakers for the 2022 SBCPC, and Cooperative Program giving is above budget after the first two months of the fiscal year.

News Recap
SBC Pastors’ Conference speakers spread across multiple ministry settings – https://bit.ly/3GBqII5
CP giving continues strong start to fiscal year; above budget by nearly 5 percent – https://bit.ly/3lSWrwa
VBS Previews set to help churches ‘maximize kingdom impact’ – https://bit.ly/3rOmYPg
MBTS announces Fusion:Masters program – https://bit.ly/3lVqUtP
Comfort God’s people, cry out to the lost, Greenway implores graduates – https://bit.ly/3IFMRXB

This Week in SBC History
Binkley elected as first president at SEBTS
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/310,11-Dec-1950.pdf
The ministry landscape is changing faster than ever, and ministers of every calling need versatile training for today’s church and marketplace. And so, in partnership with Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is now enrolling students in their new MDiv+MBA program. With a biblically faithful foundation, hands-on ministry experience, and contemporary business training, this is a program for tomorrow’s pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, and lay leaders. To learn more, visit swbts.edu/mdivmba.

Resources of the Week
Amy: Taylor Leonhardt Hold Still
Jonathan: Caring Well https://bit.ly/3IwT3kB

Supreme Court arguments in Dobbs case, Pitman to lead Send Network Dec 03, 2021

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Episode #353

All eyes were on the Supreme Court this week for the oral arguments in Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health. Also, Send Network has a new leader.

News Recap
Pro-lifers hopeful after high court abortion arguments – https://bit.ly/3GcmdDC
Oral arguments: Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health – https://bit.ly/3DmzaJ1
Vance Pitman to lead NAMB’s Send Network – https://bit.ly/3ErGpRl
Mission:Dignity gives thanks for $1 million in gifts on #GivingTuesday – https://bit.ly/31hdlhf
Giving Tuesday offers prime chance to support SBC entities – https://bit.ly/3G85sta
State Baptist conventions take historic actions regarding sexual abuse at annual meetings – https://bit.ly/31iyCXV
Former Oklahoma Baptist preacher indicted on multiple sexual abuse charges – https://bit.ly/3IdyXLY

This Week in SBC History
Churches Take Pictures of Their New Members
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/1438,03-Dec-1960.pdf
The ministry landscape is changing faster than ever, and ministers of every calling need versatile training for today’s church and marketplace. And so, in partnership with Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is now enrolling students in their new MDiv+MBA program. With a biblically faithful foundation, hands-on ministry experience, and contemporary business training, this is a program for tomorrow’s pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, and lay leaders. To learn more, visit swbts.edu/mdivmba.

Resources of the Week
Amy: Christmas at Dollywood podcast
Jonathan: This Christmas by Lateral Blue

Southern Baptists stand for life as SCOTUS arguments are set to begin in Dobbs case Nov 29, 2021

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Episode #352

Brent Leatherwood, Chelsea Sobolik, and Elizabeth Graham join us to preview this week’s monumental SCOTUS oral arguments related to the future of abortion in America. This special episode of SBC This Week is brought to you in partnership with the ERLC.

Dobbs Case Resources
Explainer: Supreme Court takes up Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization – https://bit.ly/3FVTLFY
ERLC files Supreme Court amicus brief in support of pro-life Mississippi law – https://bit.ly/32C39Qx
What is the state of abortion around the world? – https://bit.ly/3FYcQai
ERLC Amicus Brief – https://bit.ly/3rfvYg5
Will Roe Go? ERLC Panel Event – https://bit.ly/3D4OR7J

Stand for Life

Every mother, every child, every heartbeat matters to God.

In 2010, roughly 1000 Pregnancy Resource Centers provided about 230,000 ultrasounds, at little or no cost. These ultrasounds introduce mothers to their children for the first time.

Most women in a crisis pregnancy who are given a glimpse of the life within them choose life.

However, this is only possible when women can go to a pregnancy center with an ultrasound machine. Sonogram machines are expensive, costing tens of thousands of dollars. Most crisis pregnancy centers do not have the funds to buy the equipment or have a medical expert on staff to “read” the output.

You can be a part of giving to this critical, life-saving effort. When you donate to the Psalm 139 Project at ERLC.com/standforlife, 100% of your donation goes directly to ultrasound machine placement. 100%. Learn more at ERLC.com/standforlife.

Psalm 139 Project

Through the Psalm 139 Project, the ERLC is placing 50 ultrasounds by the 50th anniversary of Roe v. Wade in 2023. They are on the verge of placing their 25th machine this month which would put them halfway to their goal. On this Giving Tuesday, help them place their next machine by donating at ERLC.com/50by50. 100% of donations to the PSalm 139 PRoject go entirely to ultrasound machine placement. Learn more and donate at ERLC.com/50by50.

Georgia pastor ministers during murder trial; state convention roundup Nov 26, 2021

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Episode #351

Chris Winford is leading the way in showing hospitality in Brunswick, Ga., and encouraging peace in the community during the trial for those who murdered Ahmaud Arbery. Also, the 2021 state convention season has come to a close.

News Recap
Georgia pastor joins other clergy urging peace during, after trial – https://bit.ly/3oYJnpP
STATE MEETINGS: Arizona, Tennessee, BGAV – https://bit.ly/3FHWq5L
STATE MEETINGS: Louisiana, BCMD – https://bit.ly/3l24MgY

This Week in SBC History
North Carolina Baptists Buy Fort Caswell
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/259,25-Nov-1949.pdf
https://fortcaswell.com/
The ministry landscape is changing faster than ever, and ministers of every calling need versatile training for today’s church and marketplace. And so, in partnership with Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is now enrolling students in their new MDiv+MBA program. With a biblically faithful foundation, hands-on ministry experience, and contemporary business training, this is a program for tomorrow’s pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, and lay leaders. To learn more, visit swbts.edu/mdivmba.

Resources of the Week
Week of Prayer for International Missions

Greenway confronts Mid-America about film premiere; Upton retiring from BGAV Nov 19, 2021

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Episode #350

Southwestern Seminary president Adam Greenway confronted Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary president Michael Spradlin about the Memphis-area school’s involvement in an upcoming film premiere that “slanders” SWBTS. Also, John Upton announced his retirement at the BGAV.

News Recap
Greenway calls on Mid-America to cancel premiere of film containing ‘slander’ – https://bit.ly/3HCyh2s
BGAV Executive Director John Upton announces retirement – https://bit.ly/326Etzk
STATE MEETINGS: Ohio, Oklahoma – https://bit.ly/3FBEudj
STATE MEETINGS: Alabama, Northwest – https://bit.ly/3oMiLs2
STATE MEETINGS: SBTC, SBCV – https://bit.ly/3qUugR0
STATE MEETINGS: North Carolina, South Carolina – https://bit.ly/3kSkkU9
STATE MEETINGS: Kentucky, BGCT – https://bit.ly/3FvqfGF
Two Baptist colleges to receive ‘university’ designation – https://bit.ly/3kRdChm
Ten months after fire, South Carolina church breaks ground for new building – https://bit.ly/30CTc4Y
Send Network’s Dhati Lewis leaving NAMB for new project – https://bit.ly/3oFRdEV
Wilton named dean of Leavell College – https://bit.ly/3FBEIRH
Randy Adams undergoes surgery for blood clot – https://bit.ly/3HMzZyq

This Week in SBC History
Houston Plans Released
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/44,17-Nov-1952.pdf
The ministry landscape is changing faster than ever, and ministers of every calling need versatile training for today’s church and marketplace. And so, in partnership with Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is now enrolling students in their new MDiv+MBA program. With a biblically faithful foundation, hands-on ministry experience, and contemporary business training, this is a program for tomorrow’s pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, and lay leaders. To learn more, visit swbts.edu/mdivmba.

Resources of the Week
Amy: Lifeway Christmas
Jonathan: An Interview with Paul Chitwood

States commission sex abuse task forces; EC meets, announces new appointments Nov 12, 2021

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Episode #349

State conventions are taking place all over the country, and we’ve got a recap of the big news items from them. Also, the EC met this week and announced some new appointments to its subcommittees.

News Recap
Florida, Georgia, North Carolina Baptists to review handling of sex abuse cases – https://bit.ly/3ol6vPg
North Carolina Baptists contribute $300K to ‘Every Child’ initiative – https://bit.ly/3HhvXhh
Iowa Baptists allocate 75 percent to national CP – https://bit.ly/31Z9565
STATE MEETINGS: Illinois, New Mexico – https://bit.ly/3F08MGe
STATE MEETINGS: Hawaii, West Virginia – https://bit.ly/3Hbmnwp
STATE MEETINGS: Michigan, New England – https://bit.ly/3qvV3Tq
STATE MEETINGS: Arkansas, Florida, Georgia – https://bit.ly/3kwxKFf
STATE MEETINGS: Iowa, Wyoming – https://bit.ly/3kxaerT
IMB ‘calling in reinforcements,’ Chitwood says at Sending Celebration – https://bit.ly/3HhCWGG
SBC Executive Committee meets, receives update from legal team – https://bit.ly/30rByke
Southern Baptist chaplain promoted to Air Force Chief of Chaplains – https://bit.ly/3HeL5vS
Well-known pastors join SEBTS faculty – https://bit.ly/3F6UCmG
Arriola to serve as director for Send Network SBTC church planting partnership – https://bit.ly/3ogkg1w
Longtime TEXAN editor moves to Missouri – https://bit.ly/3kuFveX
Franklin Graham undergoes heart surgery – https://bit.ly/3kuFveX

This Week in SBC History
Cat let out of the bag
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/1380,13-Nov-1959.pdf
The ministry landscape is changing faster than ever, and ministers of every calling need versatile training for today’s church and marketplace. And so, in partnership with Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is now enrolling students in their new MDiv+MBA program. With a biblically faithful foundation, hands-on ministry experience, and contemporary business training, this is a program for tomorrow’s pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, and lay leaders. To learn more, visit swbts.edu/mdivmba.

Resources of the Week
Amy: He’s Where the Joy Is
Jonathan: Hope or Nostalgia Live

CP giving strong to start fiscal year; Georgetown College president fired after sexual assault allegations Nov 05, 2021

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Episode #348

A new fiscal year has started in the SBC, and giving for the the first month came in strong. Also, a Kentucky college fired their president this week after credible allegations for sexual assault were filed against him.

News Recap
CP giving starts strong to begin fiscal year – https://bit.ly/3EDqU8G
Georgetown College fires president after sexual assault allegations – https://bit.ly/3k5AbhK
Former Lifeway Credit Union employee charged with fraud – https://bit.ly/3ELnQr1
STATE ANNUAL MEETINGS: Missouri, Utah-Idaho – https://bit.ly/3k7lFq0
STATE ANNUAL MEETINGS: California, Mississippi – https://bit.ly/3o2hJrw
FROM THE SEMINARIES: MBTS launches chair of church history; NOBTS panel on human trafficking; SEBTS fills chair of N.T. studies – https://bit.ly/3H2ySKC
EC special called meeting set for Nov. 10 – https://bit.ly/3q56j9e

This Week in SBC History
Groundbreaking for new Wake Forest College
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/371,02-Nov-1951.pdf
The ministry landscape is changing faster than ever, and ministers of every calling need versatile training for today’s church and marketplace. And so, in partnership with Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is now enrolling students in their new MDiv+MBA program. With a biblically faithful foundation, hands-on ministry experience, and contemporary business training, this is a program for tomorrow’s pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, and lay leaders. To learn more, visit swbts.edu/mdivmba.

Resources of the Week
Amy: PTL: The Rise and Fall of Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker’s Evangelical Empire
Jonathan: International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christians

EC meets, announces new legal agreements; State convention recaps Oct 29, 2021

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Episode #347

The SBC Executive Committee met this week and announced a couple of new legal arrangements to represent the entity. Also, state convention annual meetings are in full swing.

News Recap
EC calls special meeting to address ‘legal, audit and personnel’ matters – https://bit.ly/3jMwPjJ
EC meets to address legal, personnel issues – https://bit.ly/3q2dIpZ
Sex abuse task force motions fail at Missouri, Mississippi state meetings, pass in California, Arkansas – https://bit.ly/3pMLfE9
STATE ANNUAL MEETINGS: Indiana, Minnesota-Wisconsin – https://bit.ly/3Esh6yg
STATE ANNUAL MEETINGS: Kansas-Nebraska, Nevada – https://bit.ly/3GupMWB
Ex-Liberty spokesman says he was fired for raising concerns – https://bit.ly/3GtmVgN
Daniel Darling named director of SWBTS Land Center – https://bit.ly/3pOjCea

This Week in SBC History
Schroeder named head of Brotherhood Commission
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/370,30-Oct-1951.pdf
The ministry landscape is changing faster than ever, and ministers of every calling need versatile training for today’s church and marketplace. And so, in partnership with Dallas Baptist University, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is now enrolling students in their new MDiv+MBA program. With a biblically faithful foundation, hands-on ministry experience, and contemporary business training, this is a program for tomorrow’s pastors, missionaries, entrepreneurs, and lay leaders. To learn more, visit swbts.edu/mdivmba.

Resources of the Week
Amy: Women & Work Podcast | (There’s No Place Like) Hallmark for the Holidays!
Jonathan: Pastor’s Prayer Toolkit

Mike Stone sues Russell Moore; Seminary trustee meetings roundup Oct 22, 2021

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Episode #346

Former SBC Executive Committee chairman Mike Stone has filed a defamation suit against former ERLC president Russell Moore. Also, we have recaps from all six Southern Baptist seminaries’ fall trustee meetings.

News Recap
Former EC chair Mike Stone sues former ERLC president Russell Moore – https://bit.ly/3B1BILG
EC members call for special meeting – https://bit.ly/3lXZfZv
Addison resigns from SBC Executive Committee staff – https://bit.ly/3lZ32Wy
STATE ROUNDUP: Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania/South Jersey – https://bit.ly/3B1BDYo
SWBTS approves Stanley Chair, Hemphill Center – https://bit.ly/2ZabY2i
NOBTS elects Greg Mathias to faculty, approves curriculum updates – https://bit.ly/3vyfzDq
SEBTS celebrates high attendance and record giving – https://bit.ly/3m4Gkwo
SBTS experiences record enrollment and revenues in 2020-2021 – https://bit.ly/3aYMmIj
Record enrollment, library dedication, new missions program key business of MBTS Fall Trustee Meeting – https://bit.ly/2ZfIKPO
Gateway focused on mission-critical objectives, executive transitions – https://bit.ly/3puI9EL
Illinois pastor suspended after arrest on grooming minor for sex – https://bit.ly/3aWB5by

This Week in SBC History
Book Stores Open Mail Order Center; 10 to Come
http://media.sbhla.org.s3.amazonaws.com/4072,20-Oct-1975.pdf
Fall Preview Day is the perfect time to explore everything a college has to offer, so Texas Baptist College is excited to welcome new students to campus for Fall Preview Day on October 22. Students will have a chance to check out the campus, meet their professors, and talk to fellow students about their TBC experience. Visit texasbaptist.com/preview to learn more and register for Fall Preview Day at Texas Baptist College.

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SBC This Week

Episode #355

Resources of the Week
Amy: Rebekah: An American Surgeon in India
Jonathan: Send Relief

Episode #354

Resources of the Week
Amy: Taylor Leonhardt Hold Still
Jonathan: Caring Well https://bit.ly/3IwT3kB

Episode #353

Resources of the Week
Amy: Christmas at Dollywood podcast
Jonathan: This Christmas by Lateral Blue