During their upcoming meeting in Dallas, Southern Baptists will consider approving resolutions aimed at instituting legal prohibitions on pornography and lobbying for the reversal of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to legalize same-sex marriage.
The proposed resolutions advocate for laws regarding gender, marriage, and family according to what they interpret as the biblical directive of divine creation. Additionally, they urge legislators to mitigate sports betting and favor policies that encourage childbearing.
The Southern Baptist Convention, recognized as the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S., is anticipated to discuss internal controversies during its annual gathering on Tuesday and Wednesday. Notably, there is a suggestion to prohibit churches from permitting women pastors. There’s also debate concerning the defunding of the denomination’s public policy branch, criticized for not extending its anti-abortion beliefs to endorse penalizing women undergoing abortions.
Despite the denomination’s strong support for Donald Trump, the agenda lacks specific references to his actions regarding tariffs, immigration, or budget plans that suggest cuts in taxes, food assistance, and Medicaid.
Commemorating the 40-year anniversary of a significant Dallas meeting, the Southern Baptists’ current assembly takes place in a historical context. In 1985, an intense confrontation resulted in a conservative takeover of the convention and its associated entities, aligning with the burgeoning Christian conservative movement in political spheres.
This historic event is remembered as a pivotal moment marking a transitional period within the Southern Baptist Convention, according to Albert Mohler, a notable figure in its conservative shift. Although attendance this year might not match the 45,000 from 1985, the meeting retains the influence of its past, with debates occurring among dedicated conservatives.
The proposed resolutions on issues like gambling and pornography reflect the convention’s enduring positions, with an emphasis on political demands. Proposed by the Committee on Resolutions, these recommendations traditionally garner substantial support.
One resolution calls on lawmakers to enact laws reflecting the theological understanding of marriage, sex, human life, and family, while opposing legislation that contradicts religious teachings.
To certain outside observers, such language appears to advocate a theocratic perspective. Nancy Ammerman, professor emerita of sociology of religion at Boston University, noted that the language leaves little room for compromise or differing theological perspectives.
Mohler stressed that these resolutions represent a divinely created order predating scripture, which the Christian church insists is universally obligatory.
With conservative influence widespread in Washington, some of these political positions seem plausible. A Southern Baptist, Mike Johnson, serves as Speaker of the House, while a Supreme Court justice has suggested revisiting the legalization of same-sex marriage.
Religious conservatives have also called for legislation promoting morality, such as banning pornography, and echoed resolutions favoring policies supporting fertility.
There are discussions around defunding the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, perceived as ineffective. Some former SBC presidents have backed its funding, while critics have pointed to its opposition against certain abortion-related state laws.
The commission has actively sought support, emphasizing its advocacy for religious freedom and its opposition to abortion and transgender identities.
In April, Southern Baptist ethnic groups and leaders expressed concern over immigration policies, fearing they deter church attendance. They emphasized the need for enforcement with compassion, avoiding the demonization of oppressed individuals.
In contrast, the Center for Baptist Leadership criticized such views, with some supporting the continuation of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission’s efforts.
Texas pastor Dwight McKissic, who aligns with many of the convention’s conservative principles, criticized what he sees as backlash against the commission, noting its progressiveness in handling racial issues.
The amendment to ban churches with women pastors failed in 2024 for the second consecutive year. It is expected to resurface, as discussions continue around defining the role of women in pastoral leadership.
As the Southern Baptist Convention grapples with a continual membership decline, they maintain the largest Protestant membership despite an 18th consecutive year of decrease.
However, their baptism numbers have recently improved, indicating a potential reversal of past trends.