At its annual meeting, the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) voted overwhelmingly to endorse a ban on same-sex marriage. The resolution also urges the reversal of Obergefell v. Hodges, the 2015 Supreme Court decision legalizing gay marriage nationwide. With over 10,000 church representatives present, the resolution emphasized the belief that lawmakers should uphold “natural law” and biblical principles regarding marriage, sexuality, and family. The measure passed without debate, reflecting broad support among the denomination’s conservative leadership.
Broader Conservative Agenda Includes Gambling, Pornography, and Childbearing
In addition to opposing same-sex marriage, Southern Baptists approved resolutions aimed at curtailing sports betting and promoting policies that encourage childbirth. A proposed resolution denounced “willful childlessness” and called for laws affirming marriage solely between one man and one woman. These measures are part of a broader effort to reassert traditional moral values and influence public policy. Critics argue such stances alienate younger and more moderate churchgoers, but supporters say the SBC must stand firm in biblical truth.
Abuse Scandal Shadows Convention After Advocate’s Death
The recent death of Jennifer Lyell, a whistleblower in the SBC sexual abuse crisis, overshadowed the meeting. Lyell, 47, died following a series of strokes. Her public allegations in 2019 helped expose widespread mishandling of abuse cases. Friends say the backlash she endured after speaking out had a devastating emotional impact. Reform advocates held a silent vigil outside the Dallas convention center, highlighting ongoing dissatisfaction with the SBC’s response to abuse.
Reform Stalls as Survivors Lose Faith in Leadership
Although the SBC voted in 2022 to track credibly accused church workers, the Executive Committee now says that the database is not a priority. Instead, it plans to refer churches to existing registries and emphasize education. Advocates view this as a retreat from real accountability. They argue the leadership offers only “hollow words” and symbolic gestures. The committee has also requested $3 million for legal expenses related to abuse litigation.
Conservative Grip Tightens Amid Internal Divisions
Attendance this year stands at just over 10,000, far below historic highs. Still, the SBC’s conservative direction appears intact. Delegates are also debating whether to ban churches with women pastors and to dissolve the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, accused by critics of being insufficiently conservative.
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Southern Baptists overwhelmingly call for a ban on gay marriage
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