The Truth in Crisis: Volume 4: the Controversy in the Southern Baptist Convention

The shift in the Southern Baptist Convention toward a more conservative orientation was one of the most important developments in 20th century Christianity. The SBC is the largest non-Catholic denomination in the United States. The influence of its 16 million members extends literally around the world. In recent years, Southern Baptists have held many of the key political leadership positions in Washington, and the SBC's influence in Washington is enormous. The shift began in 1979 and continues today, though most historians say the actual "Battle for the Bible" concluded in 1993. In 1978, the SBC was shifting dramatically toward the theological positions held by more mainline Protestant groups. Today, the SBC leads the Evangelical world in theology, publishing, missions and in many other ways and has turned away from he mainline denominations. Author James C. Hefley was there as an eyewitness to history in the making. A gifted writer with a clear focus on the theological issues involved, Hefley writes this five-volume series as developments occurred. He literally provides a step-by-step account. In his foreword to volume 4, Richard Land, president of the SBC's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, writes, "Southern Baptists possess great loyalty for their denominational heritage, even when they disagree as to its precise nature. They care deeply about their Southern Baptist Zion. Consequently, disputes within their midst are of great importance to them. It is critically important that they have as much information as possible in order that they may give the informed loyalty and support our institutions and agencies need to truly fulfill their program assignments. The Truth in Crisis volumes have made an important contribution toward providing that informed perspective."