Opinion

Contributing writer Sarah Blackwell contemplates the seemingly insurmountable task that looms over the Southern Baptist denomination regarding what to do about the recent release of an internal database of abusers. Each of the recommended steps to remedy this problem seems so minor, so insignificant — are they even worthwhile?

Darron LaMonte Edwards offers up some thoughts to consider this Independence Day weekend. The United States is currently divided by political party, white supremacy, and economic depravity. We are a nation in conflict and everybody is on edge. So what can we learn from a king named Asa?

Contributing writer Greg Mamula offers the latest entry in a six-part series on the future of the church. In this third article, he uses the Apostle Paul as a model and focuses on how we should focus on building more and better networks in order to be agile and respond to specific needs in real-time.

Contributing writer Rodney Kennedy offers his thoughts on the controversy swirling around Phil Mickelson and other members of the PGA who decided to join the Saudi Arabia-backed professional golf tour. He argues that when we compare this to the Colin Kaepernick saga, we can see just how much whiteness and greed can warp perceptions.

Contributing writer Sarah Blackwell explores the moment that many Christian parents anticipate from when they first become a mom or dad: their child making a profession of faith. So when her son made his earnest and heartfelt desire to be part of the church global, why did she find a mix of melancholy and even anxiety creep over her?

Contributing writer Christopher Dixon offers his perspective on the recent SBC abuse report. Those who are power-hungry suggest that any self-examination or reform is “liberal” or “ungodly” but that’s a smoke-and-mirrors tactic to disguise the most painful truth: some of the worst sinners have been our church leaders who have been wolves in sheep’s clothing.

Contributing writer Greg Mamula reflects on the recent shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, that left nineteen children and two teachers dead. If we are truly offering our thoughts and prayers to the tragedy that is the epic endemic of gun violence in America, we will have our hearts changed to want what God wants on this issue. If we pray and nothing changes, then we have not truly prayed.

David P. Gushee reflects on the recent report outlining twenty years of Southern Baptist leaders mishandling sexual abuse allegations in SBC churches. He argues that a denomination that does not want to face the reality of systemic evil in society must now face the reality of its own systemic evil.

Christina Ray Stanton explores the life of Broadway music director, conductor of world-class orchestras, and award-winning composer and arranger Laura Bergquist. Through it all, Laura has never lost sight of what motivates her: a desire to create beautiful music that tells wonderful stories, a profound love for her family, and a deep devotion to God.

Contributing writer Greg Mamula offers the latest entry in a six-part series on the future of the church. In this second article, he focuses on how we should learn to listen and respond well to our communities.