It feels like old-time Conservative Resurgence power politics at the SBC Orlando. I attended most of the conventions from 1979 through the decisive election that settled the victory of conservatives about 12 years later. There were certain things that happened.
The conservative candidate always had a prominent place at the Pastors’ Conference. Lo and behold, Willy Rice was given a speaking slot at this year’s PC. It was pretty clear that this was an orchestrated attempt by the denominational power structure to promote his candidacy. Josh Powell is also conservative, but one side insists that they are “the conservatives.” Willy was their candidate.
The Mohler amendment debate this morning was quintessential power politics. Mohler, of course, was first to the mic on Tuesday to offer his amendment – could that have been an accident? Mohler was then allowed to speak to his amendment, which is normal, then one person was allowed to speak against it, then Colin Smothers spoke for it and moved the previous question. No debate allowed. No amendments allowed.
This was a major move. Dr. Mohler could have at least allowed the messengers to speak before he pushed it through. If you don’t think Colin and Dr. Mohler coordinated the effort to close debate, I have some swamp land in Arizona to sell you. Also, I was told that the Mohler forces convinced those who were going to bring a substitute motion to restore the original, harsher motion not to do so.
This was old-fashioned power politics. I don’t like it.
I think it will pass its first test easily. Friends suspect it will get through by 75%.
Personally, I supported the CR but always found the power politics distasteful. I found the orchestrated power politics today distasteful.
