Thanks for sharing your heart about the SBC. I think it is very clear in the interview that Dr. Dockery is far from the idea of maintaining status quo. Instead of a “just-get-along” mentality, he is seeking renewal in the SBC that is confessional and convictional.

I think Dr. Dockery also had some very encouraging words for us in his last comments in this section, particularly when he said, “You will have opportunities in days ahead to bring balance to areas that previous generations may have missed.” As my professor at college once told me, you will learn more about how not to do ministry than actually how to do ministry. If there are things that we loathe about the SBC (and let’s be honest, there are many), then let’s pray and work together to bring gospel consensus and genuine Christian community that we so long to have.

Man, don’t think your concerns are not being heard or that they are not valid. They are, as are others, and people are listening, especially when they realize that the future generation is looking for other means of cooperation and networking outside the SBC.

I respect Dockery very much. However, I am a bit unsatisfied with his comments regarding the constant politiking in the SBC. I, for one, think there is more to this problem than people want to admit. I wonder if the people of the SBC (not just the leaders) haven’t lost the mind of Christ. I wonder if we’ve forgotten the reason we cooperate as a convention in the first place. I wonder if being patient is enough.

I believe these reasons (cited by you in your interview) are the cause of so many fleeing the SBC for more “emergent” pastures. I’m not going to lie, I’ve thought about it a few times, in so far as considering going to a place that’s interested in developing authentic Christian community without being concerned with the mere externals.

Anyway, I’m probably just rambling.

Thanks man. Yeah, I really hope (and praying) that everything works out for Steve.

Second, I’ve got a request to make, hoping that maybe some of you would respond. Steve McCoy, friend and SBC pastor in northern Illinois, has recently had both his vehicles break down and are in immediate need for assistance. Steve, his wife, and four children could receive a huge blessing from other Christians who want to seize an opportunity to bless a brother (and his family) who has devoted himself to God’s Church.

Here’s what you can do. To give financially, you can do one of two things:

1. You can give through Paypal by sending a donation to pastorsteve@gmail.com.
2. You can give by sending cash or check to Steve at this address:

Steve McCoy
Calvary Baptist Church
1903 N. Seminary Avenue
Woodstock, IL 60098

Please consider how God could use you to minister to others in His name. Thanks.

Timmy