This question has been asked quite a bit of late. Here is my response:
1. Webster's Dictionary defines the word
emerge as "to become manifest, to rise from or as if from an enveloping fluid; come into view;
to rise from an obscure or inferior condition; to come into being
through evolution." Quite a variety of meanings. Any usage that you
have seen of the word relating to First Baptist relates to the
definition "come into view." The only place that I can think of that
the term has been used is in the context of prayer for "emerging
leaders." First Baptist can only grow to the degree that we are able
to identify new, Godly leaders. We need these leaders to "emerge", to
"come into view."
2. There is a movement within Christianity called the
Emerging or Emergent Church. This label covers a wide spectrum of
theologies. The movement is a reaction to the decline of the Church in
the United States of America. Emergent churches seek to communicate
the Gospel in relevant ways to an unchurched culture. I agree with
this noble goal. I do not agree, however, with some of the conclusions
and methodologies of some within the Emergent Church movement. For
some, the Bible has become secondary. Truth is relative. Relevance to
culture has become accommodation to the culture Relationships are
emphasized while neglecting accountability. In an effort to
communicate the Gospel, the Gospel has become lost.
3. First Baptist does not seek to become part of the Emergent
Church movement. We do, however, believe that it is important to
communicate the Gospel in ways that an unchurched culture will
understand. We seek to do this while never compromising the priority
and authority of God's Word.
4. We may still cautiously use the word "emerging" in
relation to some of our growth needs. In and of itself It is a good
word. Unfortunately, it has been connected with a certain context
that is problematic for many in the Church.
A new session of "Discover First Baptist" begins Sunday morning at 9:30 at the Zaucha's (313 Oriole St.). The 12 week experience is all about the past, present, and future of First Baptist Church. While membership is not mandatory at the end of the experience, "Discover First Baptist" is a prerequisite for becoming a member. So, even if you are just interested in finding out more about what God is doing at First Baptist, come on over for some coffee and conversation. If you plan to attend, give us a call at 272-5893.