Statement from Dr. David Uth regarding SBCPC 2020
February 19, 2020
Available at sbcpc.net. Direct link.
On Tuesday, February 18, I learned that the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee voted to disallow the use of the 2020 SBC venue at the Orange County Convention Center for the 2020 Pastors’ Conference unless we adjust the program of the Pastors Conference to meet the approval of the Executive Committee officers. The action issued a deadline of February 24 for me to decide if we are going to submit an amended program.
Yesterday, in separate phone calls I informed J.D. Greear, President of the SBC, Ronnie Floyd, Executive Committee, CEO and Mike Stone, Executive Committee, Chairman that I will not have an answer to their inquiry by the deadline of February 24.
I am not comfortable deciding something of this magnitude so quickly. Instead, I’m asking our church family to pray with me through this decision.
So, I am asking our people here at First Baptist Orlando, who know me, love me and walk with me, to join me and our pastors on a 40-day season of prayer and fasting. Together we are asking God to guide us through the decisions regarding the SBCPC 2020 so that we will respond in a way that will bring Him the greatest joy and the greatest glory.
I’m thrilled to report that Ronnie, Mike and the other officers of the Executive Committee have affirmed the plan that God laid on my heart. J.D. also offered his enthusiastic support. I want to call on every member of our SBC family to join us in this as well. Join our church as we pray: “Make us one so we can influence many!” (John 17:21)
While we pray, I will not be issuing any statements or commenting on any SBC actions in order to protect the unity that has been created by our common desire to seek God’s perfect plan for us. I invite you to do the same.
I expect to have an answer for the Executive Committee on March 30, 2020.
I’m glad to hear there seems to be a cooperative conversation happening now. Let’s join in prayer for wisdom for everyone involved.
