Illinois Baptist S’mores
A hidden calling Some people have a special gift— and don’t know it. Nate Adams P. 2
in focus
P. 13
Recipe for fireside success TABLE TALK
Barbie’s warning Troubling new trend that sounds so good P. 14
REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK
Eye on Orlando
SBC faultlines showing P. 6
Decision
IB Online all the time IllinoisBaptist.org News journal of the Illinois Baptist State Association
MARCH 02, 2020 Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Peoria, Illinois Permit No. 325
Vol. 114 No. 4
TALLIES: Baptisms, attendance, and giving measure churches’ progress. P. 7-9
Southern Baptist Convention
MISSIONs
ERLC probe sparks debate
Over leadership, politics, and impact on CP
Nashville, Tenn. | The Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee took action on several issues during its February meeting, including a polarizing program for the 2020 SBC Pastors’ Conference and a new 5-year vision plan. No action garnered as much attention, though, as the EC’s vote to examine past and current activities of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC). In announcing the probe, the EC cited “ongoing concerns” from its own members, state leaders, and other Baptists that the ERLC is not adequately fulfilling its Convention-approved ministry assignments. The ERLC Executive Committee strongly opposed the probe, calling it “unwarranted, divisive, and disrespectful,” in an open letter posted Feb. 20 on ERLC.com. The ERLC officers said messengers at the SBC annual meeting should have an opportunity to say whether they agree with the EC’s decision. “Until then, we are instructing Dr. Moore and the ERLC not to comply with it until messengers have an opportunity to signal their belief that such a task force is appropriate and legitimate.” P. 4
On the go
This generation is leading the way for North American missions. P. 11
PLUS: Annie Armstrong’s Week of Prayer. P. 12