Jerry Vines Blog
It has taken me a few weeks to get to this wrap-up of the SBC annual meeting. I'm finishing up some messages for the "Left" series I'm doing at First Baptist Woodstock, editing some Sunday School lessons in our new Vines By the Book curriculum, and trying to get ready to leave for Alaska. So, I'm a busy guy.
As I look back at the annual meeting I think it may well go down as the Johnny Hunt Convention. Obviously, as many messengers came to support the vision of our President for a Great Commission Resurgence. The messengers voted overwhelmingly to ask him to appoint a task force to report to the 2010 Convention in Orlando. The committee he selected has some outstanding pastors and denominational leaders. We must pray for them.
There is a transition of leadership from older leaders to younger ones. This is as it should be. Some of us who have been considered leaders lack the time and energy to continue in high profile roles. But, don't expect any of us to go away anytime soon! Unless to heaven. Until then, we're still here for a "few more days to sing God's praise and to tell the old, old story. Then when twilight falls and the Saviour calls, we shall go to Him in glory."
There are other leaders who will emerge. Not all who aspire to leadership will attain it. I believe there will be some surprises. God has a way of bringing forth some of His leaders from "the backside of the desert." I'm excited to see who they might be.
There was a large representation of seminary students due to Southern Seminary being in Louisville. Drs. Al Mohler, Russ Moore, Hersheal York and others at Southern are cherished friends of mine. For many years now they have allowed me the privilege to speak in their chapel, lecture series, etc. I always find it stimulating and rewarding.
Next year there will probably be a different configuration of messengers at the Orlando Convention. People I normally see at conventions weren't there, but have expressed to me their intention to make it to Orlando. The report of the Great Commission Resurgence Task force will draw many. And, of course, there will be the election of a new president. So until then, carry on!
