I always respect the right of every Christian to interpret Scripture as they feel led. Whether it’s belief in “speaking in tongues” or the three points of Calvinism I cannot agree with, I still respect each person’s beliefs. As with Calvinism, it’s okay with me if a person believes we are so totally sinful we cannot repent or believe without God turning on the repentance and faith. Or their belief God unconditionally chooses people to save before they meet any condition of repentance or faith. Or the Calvinistic view that once God chooses a person to be saved, they cannot resist or decline that salvation. These beliefs are not consistent with my theology.
My main concern is that some who believe these things will be secretive about what they believe when being considered for a ministry position. I have heard some even say, “If they don’t ask, I don’t tell.” I think it is unethical to hide what you believe simply because you think it will jeopardize a call to a new church. I believe we should be transparent about everything we believe, especially if the church considering me does not fit my belief system. I don’t think secretly planning to change the church is ethical or honest.
I would rather start a church with people who believe the way I believe rather than try to change one to fit my beliefs, like a wife feeling she can change her new husband. That only brings conflict and dissention. We all know of churches where this has brought confusion, division and pain for the minister and his family.
Church search committees need to ask the right theological questions but when they don’t the honest minister should share his beliefs.
Jerry Wilkins
Director of Missions Emeritus
Tuscaloosa Baptist Association
Share with others: