Should Jerry Rankin resign from IMB?

The problem with this IBM selection process is there needs to be a written policy (such as using the BF@M2000) on the issue of Theology and Baptism. There is the possibility of abuse without written guidelines. Just saying "Most Southern Baptists don't believe in that" is no way to make a decision and the Baptism process sounds extremely confusing.

BTW I am not anti IMB. My Church is having 8 days of prayer for IMB missionaries this week and I like Jerry Rankin.

 

Funding is not so much of an issue as they would like you to believe. A friend of mine from seminary who was a practicing doctor from another country came to SWBTS to study theology and go back as a missionary. When he inquired about going back to the country he came from he was told that told they could not support him going back to his own country but would if he went to another country.

The truth is that a native will win more to Christ than a foreigner and can live much cheaper. [/QB][/QUOTE]

My understanding is that funding a native to go back to their home country falls under the same policy as subsidizing nationals on the field, which the IMB has found is not only usually ineffective, but actually hinders a work among the indiginous people. Some other missions agencies engage in this strategy, but the IMB has found it is not a policy they generally want to engage in. And, yes, finances are the issue, the IMB wishes they could send 2x the numbers they have, but how do they pay them?

 

Can anyone point out to me where it says that the IMB will not accept baptisms from arminian churches?

 

Kiffen, I have been following a number of blogs about the flap with the IMB. It seems to be a consistent cry that the new policy is "Landmarkish". With some I even think it may be a "scare tactic".

IMO, it could be said that Landmarkers might be using this to their advantage. And some Landmark influence of the SBC in general might be cited. But I believe it is a mistake to identify this with Landmarkism. Landmarkism is an ecclesiological construct, and has no problem rejecting baptisms BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT A TRUE CHURCH. Landmarkism doesn't have to worry about whether they believe falling from grace or security. "False churches" are equally rejected. This seems to be more of a soteriological thing.

 

GB,

I was talking about this topic on another thread the other day. I'm raising support to go on the mission field as a independent baptist. I grew up a southern baptist. I've read on some blogs that this was all a big fuss to get Rankin ousted?
It is hypocritical to say the least. If they are going to hold to that guideline of not allowing private prayer lanquage missionaries then they should ask Rankin to resign in order to look creditable. OTOH, If Rankin is truly convicted that his private prayer lanquage practices are biblical then he should resign on principle alone and maintain his convictions and not compromise for the sake of "getting along"
If what you say is true (not saying it isn't) about Rankin firing the missionary couple who he initially interpreted for while they were speaking in tongues then in my opinion he is just rolling over for the IMB. Yet, OTOH, if this couple's tongue speaking led to folk being "slain in the spirit" then maybe they should stick to their guns.
This kind of stuff makes me glad I left SBC circles. The convention system makes room for "back slapping" , good ole boy, totem pole climbing , kind of stuff. It is a big political machine.
I thought as baptists as long as you were "immersed" that is all that counts? IF all this stuff is as it is posted it does sound like landmarkism that is messed up.

As far as autonomous churches go I know a SBC church here in OH in our county where the SB Association still holds the deed to the church property. The associaton missionary got all miffed at the pastor for putting a modular home on the edge of the church property.
I know years ago this was a more common practice of associations holding deeds on churches but this still goes on today. BTW, this is a established church not a mission.

 

The way baptist autonomy works in the SBC, any church is free to buy their own property, joint the association & the convention; and on the other hand, the association or convention might buy some property and lease it to a church; the church, in its personal freedom, can choose to use that property, or choose to leave it and use other property.

Hey, free property is easier for a local church!

But then you wanna ordain some woman homosexual and the people who own your property start to make noises. Go figure.

 

Jerry Rankin has announced his retirement, effective next year.

Baptist Press story

Associated Baptist Press story

 

A great man who has faithfully led this Kingdom minded, Gospel driven organization!

I am thankful for Dr. Rankin. I am hopeful for the future!