In the past, many have reported on Andy Stanley’s many theological blunders, ranging from claiming that Jesus’ teachings can help you have a better life, even if you don’t believe in Him to telling believers to bake a gay wedding cake.
Despite these issues, Russell Moore has invited him to speak at the 2016 Ethics and Religious Liberties Commission (ERLC) National Conference, titled Onward, (sound familiar?) in August (You can see the lineup here).
Notably, Stanley once preached a controversial sermon entitled “When Gracie Met Truthy”, which, in the words of Al Mohler, “seemed to normalize [a homosexual] relationship” (Source). Stanley has even resorted to labeling the word “homophobic” as a derogatory term. Not only has Stanley been getting closer to being pro-gay, but he also has trashed Expository Preaching. Interestingly, Stanley is hosting a “Leadership” conference, featuring the egalitarian Hillsong pastrix, Christine Caine, along with Craig Groeschel.
Instead of acknowledging these issues and calling them out, many Southern Baptists are sweeping them under the rug, and sharing a stage with him. Of the invitees, notably, Matt Chandler and Trevin Wax have taken a strong and clear stance against homosexuality, however, ERLC Research Fellow, Karen Swallow-Prior has acted in a gay affirming way while Russell Moore, the head of the ERLC, has been noted for his “softening tone on homosexuality.” While both Moore and Prior have at least acknowledged they believe homosexuality to be sin, that is not stopping them from compromising the Gospel by sharing a platform with Andy Stanley.
“Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” – (Ephesians 5:6-11, ESV)
[Guest Post by Brandon Hines]
