Paige Patterson was recently demoted, then fired, as President of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
There was intense one-sided coverage, followed by a quick decision by SWBTS.
Personally, I’m always suspicious when “justice” is mostly tried in Social Media.
I’m especially suspicious when only one side is covered.
And frankly, I’m also on guard when a conservative leader is being accused, especially a pastor. I want to give that man a presumption of innocence, and the benefit of the doubt.
And I get really, really, really suspicious when the attacks mostly come from those on the left denying Biblical inerrancy, Biblical sexuality, the Biblical family, and male headship (see here, here, here, here, here, and here).
Norman Geisler wrote to Bob sharing this May 31 blog post by Sharayah Colter, wife of Scott Colter, Patterson’s former chief of staff. Sharayah Colter defends Patterson, offering evidence for his side of the story. And here is an article that contains some responses to Colter’s blog (see here).
I also note that Patterson’s legal counsel just released a statement that you can read here.
I don’t know what the truth of the matter is. But I know we won’t find it out until all the facts are patiently evaluated. I think Patterson deserves a fair hearing. As Nicodemus once said:
“Our law doesn’t judge a man before it hears from him and knows what he’s doing, does it?” (John 7:51).
Phil
I am getting very tired of the digital world. While has many advantages it also makes possible a quick attack followed by a quick conclusion followed by a quick judgment and an even quicker condemnation. Not good. We should learn to slow down.
David Wyatt
Excellent Bro. Shawn. I couldn’t agree more.
Randy White
Good word. It seems to me that leftists in the SBC (which are becoming the majority) have determined for a long time to have Patterson out. Taking the Alinsky approach, they create a crisis, then demand action. In today’s social media environment, only more of this can be expected. It is yet another reason why non-profit organizations may want to consider a new model. Under the non-profit model, a board of directors will increasingly feel obliged to be “socially responsive.” It will be more and more difficult to fill board positions with those who will never waver.
marcia hornok
Yes, thank you, Shawn. And my understanding is that the decision was made around 3 AM. Who can make a fair judgment at that hour? And if your meeting goes past midnight and you still have not reached a solution–common sense says SLEEP ON IT!
G7
The #metoo scorching winds take another. Paige Patterson is a good man. Christians need to exercise sound judgement and not be led by the current popular winds.
Henri Stewart
Thanks for the input on the situation.
It’s of note that Norm Geisler responded to Bob’s thinking. I’m wondering if Geisler’s theology studies line up with Free Grace assurances?
Please let me know if time permits. Or, alternatively, suggest a one volume theology book carried by GES. Thanks!