Jerry Vines

Jerry Vines’ remarks at the Southern Baptist Convention about the Islam this week are typical of the poor leadership Southern Baptists now have.

It is especially disappointing to see Rev. Jack Graham join in such remarks instead of apologizing for them. Vines, Graham and Merritt have endangered thousands of missionaries’ lives, probably ruined years of careful work in many countries, unnecessarily embroiled themselves in complex international politics and offended the very people Baptists are trying to reach.

Good leaders know when to speak and when to shut up.

They also know the difference between the blowhard rhetoric of the barber shop, preaching to the choir and speaking at a national forum while a world is listening.

The tongue, as James reminds us, is a weapon. When we choose to shoot it off tells volumes about us. Even when it’s preaching.

Gary Furr
Birmingham, Ala.