A Historic First for the Denomination
The president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s policy arm has introduced a resolution calling for a national ban on pornography. Brent Leatherwood, head of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), filed the measure Thursday. If passed, the resolution would become the first formal directive by the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) urging a federal prohibition on pornography.
Building on Past Statements
Southern Baptists have long condemned pornography as immoral. In 2000, the denomination’s statement of faith opposed all forms of sexual immorality, including pornography. A 2015 resolution described the sex industry as exploitative and a driver of sexual abuse. However, the ERLC has never actively advocated against pornography at the federal level. Leatherwood told WORLD the new resolution aims to expand the ERLC’s vision and add pornography to its existing advocacy portfolio.
Strategic Legislative Goals
The resolution encourages churches and believers to support laws that ban pornography and defund the industry. Leatherwood said that even before achieving a full ban, the ERLC could push for immediate reforms. One goal includes requiring online age verification across all states to restrict access to pornographic sites. The resolution, if passed by the resolutions committee, will be voted on at the SBC’s annual meeting in June.
Supporters and Detractors Voice Concerns
Supporters argue the resolution is a necessary step to address a moral crisis and protect vulnerable populations. They believe government intervention can help combat exploitation. Critics, however, warn the proposal may overstep boundaries and challenge free speech protections. They also question whether such a ban could be enforced effectively or constitutionally. Additionally, a Barna study shows that around 22% of practicing Christians view pornography weekly or daily, raising questions about the resolution’s resonance within the denomination.
Source:
SBC mulls policy to seek U.S. pornography ban
Photo by Sarah Kilian on Unsplash
About Post Author
