I have menetioned these guys several times before. I met Robert Parham and Cliff Vaughn last year (I visited their offices here in Nashville in the summer of 2002). At that time, I was looking for some work to do, and checked with them to see what they thought of blogging. Since then, I have been the beneficiary of their truly Baptist vision, which is all the more important as the quintessential “non-Baptists/anti-baptists”, the Southern Baptists, have become more and more infamous for their what Parham calls their “anti-everything”. It is refreshing to hear about true “moral values” from these contributors to a more healthy and wholistic (and “holistic”) Christian Ethic, and to do it with a clear defense of the integrity of the historic Baptist faith, which is , I am under obligation to say, as a former Southern Baptist (maybe, a “true Southern Baptist” at heart; something OTHER than what they have become, after their bringing me up in the faith, and hosting me through Theological Studies at their flagship seminary, Southern Baptist Theologival Seminary in Louisville , MDiv. 1978-81)
Robert Parham wrote some great editorial
As heirs of the rich Baptist tradition of Henlee Barnette, T. B. Maston, Martin King and Clarence Jordan, we are required to offer a prophetic edge in the context of a conservative community. We, too, must stay rooted where God has planted us and speak forcefully for an authentic biblical faith which desires the creation of a loving community.
These Baptist forefathers always offered a forceful social critique, articulated an alternative vision and gave a compelling invitation for membership.
Faithfulness to their legacy necessitates that we embrace their approach and emulate their prudent courage.
My personal request to readers is that you follow this series each day, forwarding these editorials to your friends and get their feedback. I ask that you spend time thinking about how we collectively hammer out a new public witness and what you can contribute to this journey.