Deception

Many Southern Baptist church leaders and missionaries will not say “Southern Baptist” in public. They take on various identifications because they feel the title “Southern Baptist” will turn away potential believers. The result is a radical new doctrine for Southern Baptist Outreach — “Salvation Through Deception” or “Trick ’em and Dip ’em.”

However, deception is not endorsed in New Testament guidance on salvation, witnessing or church organization. Those who tried to deceive the church were dealt with in a very severe manner or made the subject of some very strong warnings. 

There has been explosive church growth in the Southern Baptist misrepresentations. Deceived believers may indeed be saved because being Southern Baptist is not a salvation requirement. However, discovery of the deception is sure to damage a young Christian who trusted the church for the truth and found a lie hidden in the church office. 

Growth through deception tarnishes the name Southern Baptist. It is unbecoming to any Christian organization and is unlikely to gain long-term success.

Ollie Noles
Jacksonville, Ala.