Decline of the Largest Protestant Denomination in America is A Reflection of Christianity's Waning Influence in the U.S.
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The Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), once the largest Protestant denomination in America, is facing a significant decline in membership and influence. This decline has raised concerns about the influence evangelicals in America and the diminishing impact of the religious right. In a recent interview, Brannon Howes spoke with Tom Littleton, an expert on the SBC, to shed light on the reasons behind this decline and its implications for the broader culture.
Shrinking Membership and Influence:
Tom Littleton, who has extensively studied the SBC, highlighted the alarming statistics from the convention's recent meetings. Between 2006 and 2022, the SBC's membership plummeted from 16.3 million to just over 13.2 million. Equally telling is the decline in Sunday morning average attendance, which stands at under 4 million, which means their membership roles are very dishonest. These figures indicate a significant erosion of the SBC's once-thriving community.
The Influence of Progressive Movement:
Littleton attributed the decline to the growing influence of the progressive movement within the SBC. He revealed that the convention had embraced the woke agenda, incorporating Critical Race Theory (CRT) and intersectionality into its teachings. This shift has alienated many conservative members and caused divisions within the denomination. Littleton himself, wearing a media badge from WVW Broadcast Network, the network of Brannon Howse, was barred from attending SBC meetings due to his reporting on these issues, a move reflective of the convention's resistance to criticism and investigation.
Abandoning the Gospel Mission:
The SBC's declining influence can be linked to its shifting focus away from its core mission of spreading the Gospel and making disciples. Brannon Howse pointed out how prominent figures like Rick Warren played a significant role in redirecting the church's attention towards faith-based partnerships and government funding. These ventures, while marketed as ministry visions, often compromise the church's independence and as they become government agents. Littleton noted that federal laws prohibit churches from receiving government funding while actively preaching the Gospel, exposing a contradiction in churches that pursue such partnerships. In other words, many churches are willingly abandoning the gospel in their “ministry” work so they can receive the federal funds. Brannon has long stated that the government does not have to persecute the bulk of the churches in America because they can purchase the bulk of the churches in America.
Questionable Alliances and Funding Sources:
Littleton drew attention to a specific event called "Reforming Gen Z: Technology, Sexuality, and Human Formation," organized by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and funded by the John Templeton Foundation. This foundation, known for promoting a religion without reliance on sacred texts, has raised concerns about the direction of the SBC. Additionally, he highlighted the involvement of organizations like CRU and speakers affiliated with the Revoice movement, which advocates for LGBT inclusion within the church. These alliances and funding sources further illustrate the SBC's departure from its traditional values and contribute to its decline.
Conclusion:
The decline of the Southern Baptist Convention serves as a significant bellwether for the state of Christianity in America and the waning influence of the religious right. The embrace of progressive ideologies, the pursuit of government funding, and questionable alliances have contributed to a loss of trust and relevance among members. The focus on social issues, rather than the Gospel message, has led to a decline in attendance and a departure of many faithful followers. It is crucial for the SBC and similar institutions to reflect on their priorities and reaffirm their commitment to the core principles that once made them strong. Otherwise, the decline of the SBC may foreshadow a broader decline in the influence of Christianity on American life and policy.
Click here to watch this segment of Brannon Howse Live:
https://www.worldviewweekend.com/tv/video/largest-protestant-denominati…
This article is sponsored as a public service of the Worldview Weekend Foundation. Thank you for your contribution to www.wvwfoundation.com so we can continue to offer this FREE service.
You can also send your contribution to:
Worldview Weekend Foundation
P.O. Box 1690
Collierville, TN 38027
Click here and visit www.wvwtvstore.com to order emergency, freeze-dried food that will last 25 years and vital emergency supplies or call 901-468-9357.
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