McLaurin reflected on those who led in the development of the Cooperative Program as the method for financing Southern Baptist missions and causes approaches its 100th anniversary in 2025.
“Brothers and sisters,” he said, “our earnest desire is to ensure that the mission of reaching the world for Jesus Christ is prioritized above all.”
McLaurin addressed concerns over CP gifts going toward funding steps in addressing sexual abuse.
“Much conversation has been circulating regarding what the future holds in the SBC. No one knows the future except for God,” he said.
While there is no network of churches without its share of challenges, McLaurin pointed out that challenges are “simply opportunities for God to move us from our comfort zone into our creativity zone.” He then listed several items for trustees to remember, beginning with the knowledge that God has continued to work through the SBC for 177 years.
That work continues through the largest international missions sending agency in the world (IMB), largest church-planting movement in North America (NAMB) and six “world-class, conservative theological seminaries” and Southern Baptist entities.
“Here’s what I know,” he said. “People are still be saved, baptized and set on the road to discipleship.”
McLaurin announced three upcoming emphases for the EC. The newest ministry assignment is elevating the ministry of prayer and will include “pastor-friendly and church-focused strategies” to be presented over the next year.
“Next Level Stewardship” strategy will assist churches and ministry partners for that purpose. Finally, a focus on courageous leadership will help churches and leaders “be Scripture-fed and Spirit-led,” he said.
The next Executive Committee meeting will take place Sept. 19-20 at the SBC building in Nashville.
This article originally appeared here.
