The following is a joint statement from State Convention President John Thweatt and Executive Director, State Board of Missions, Rick Lance. The statement was unanimously approved and affirmed by the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions and Executive Committee during meetings on May 11-12, 2017.
Reports are that the faculty of Samford University voted to affirm the recognition of a student group that identifies with values contrary to biblical teachings on sexuality. We are saddened by this decision, which provides recognition for an agenda that we believe to be contrary to Scripture.
We strongly believe that the Old Testament and New Testament each speak unequivocally against homosexuality. When addressing same-gender sexual relationships, the Bible without exception never affirms such behavior as an approved lifestyle.
We further believe the vast majority of Alabama Baptists will continue to stand on these clear teachings of God’s Word as authoritative as to how Christians should live according to the unchanging truth of Scripture.
We continue to affirm the biblical truth of God’s love for the whole world and that Christians should reach out in love to all, including those who identify with the LGBT lifestyle and agenda. It is because of obedience to Christ and our love for others that we should preach repentance from sins, proclaiming Christ Who alone offers eternal salvation to anyone who trusts in Him.
In the days to come, Alabama Baptist leaders will be in dialogue with the leadership of Samford as to the serious implications this action has for the relationship between Samford University and the Alabama Baptist State Convention. We request your prayers as this situation is handled in a Biblically correct way.
