Journal: Journal for Baptist Theology & Ministry
Volume: JBTM 01:1 (Spring 2003)
Article: Editorial
Author: Anonymous

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JBTM 1:1 (Spring 2003) p. 1

Editorial

The Baptist Center for Theology and Ministry exists to provide theological and ministerial resources that enrich and energize ministry in Baptist churches. Our goal is to bring together professor and practitioner to produce and apply these resources to Baptist life, polity, and ministry. The mission of the BCTM is to develop, preserve, and communicate the distinctive theological identity of Baptists.

In keeping with this vision, the Baptist Center for Theology and Ministry is proud to present this inaugural edition of the Journal for Baptist Theology and Ministry. We pray that the articles and essays presented herein truly address issues and concerns relevant for Baptist life. This first volume is devoted to the topic “Issues in Baptist Life.” Although broad in scope, we believe that every article speaks meaningfully to areas of common concern present among Baptists.

Issues of evangelism and apologetics are theologically and practically considered in this edition of the journal. Two articles reflect similar yet differing perspectives on the practice of evangelism. Dr. Ken Keathley provides a biblical, historical, and theological case as well as a passionate plea for public invitations as the necessary and appropriate culmination of gospel preaching. Dr. Chad Brand gives a history of evangelism within select periods of Baptist history. His three major points regarding evangelism will most assuredly resonate with most Baptists. Dr. Robert Stewart meticulously analyzes the relationship between Mormonism and Christianity. In particular, Stewart critiques the plea of Stephen E. Robinson that Christians should accept

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Mormons as genuine Christians. Those involved in counter-cult ministry or those interested in cults will find Stewart’s article both illuminating and helpful.

Issues of denominational life are also discussed. Dr. Chuck Kelley speaks pointedly and specifically to Southern Baptists. He provides a stimulating and provocative essay (accompanied with helpful and detailed statistics) on the relationship between the Cooperative Program and the denominational entities of the Southern Baptist Convention. Dr. Steve Lemke has graciously consented to allow us to reprint his presidential address from the 2000 Southwest Regional Meeting of the Evangelical Theological Society. In his discourse, he casts our Baptist vision toward the broader horizons of the evangelical world, identifying what he believes will be future theological challenges within evangelicalism. Now three years removed from this address, it is noteworthy how many of his predictions have in some way “come to pass.”

Issues of church practice and Christian living are also considered w...

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