Context:

Southern Baptists gathered in Dallas to consider resolutions advocating for a legal ban on pornography and reversing the U.S. Supreme Court's approval of same-sex marriage, supporting laws based on their interpretation of divine creation. The meeting also addressed curtailing sports betting and encouraging childbearing, reflecting long-standing conservative positions. Internal debates involved a proposed ban on churches with women pastors and potential defunding of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, criticized for its stance on abortion and immigration. The gathering marked the 40th anniversary of a significant 1985 meeting where conservative factions gained control, influencing current resolutions that align with Christian nationalist agendas. Despite declining membership, the Southern Baptists saw a rise in baptism numbers, suggesting potential spiritual renewal amidst ongoing controversies over gender roles and political engagement.

Dive Deeper:

• The Southern Baptist Convention is considering resolutions that aim to legally ban pornography and overturn the Supreme Court's decision on same-sex marriage, emphasizing laws that support traditional views on gender and family based on biblical interpretations.

• Other resolutions include efforts to limit sports betting and promote pro-natalist policies, reflecting deeply conservative stances that resonate with their political allies who currently hold power in Washington.

• Internal debates among Southern Baptists focus on banning churches with women pastors and the potential defunding of their public policy arm, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, criticized for its approach to abortion and immigration issues.

• The Dallas meeting commemorates the pivotal 1985 convention where a conservative faction took control of the Southern Baptist Convention, aligning it with the Christian conservative movement in U.S. politics.

• While membership has been declining for 18 consecutive years, the Southern Baptists report a rise in baptism numbers, indicating a possible spiritual renewal despite ongoing controversies over the denomination's direction.

• Some Southern Baptist leaders express concerns over the denomination's shift from an evangelical to a fundamentalist organization, potentially alienating minority churches that may not align with this transition.

• The Southern Baptist Convention continues to grapple with its identity and role in public policy, balancing traditional religious beliefs with modern political engagement, amid increasing scrutiny and internal divisions.