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Study shows Calvinism a growing influence in Southern Baptist Convention

A study finds that nearly 30 percent of recent graduates from Southern Baptist seminaries (SBC) who serve as church pastors identify themselves as Calvinists.

LifeWay Research, which conducted the study, found that recent SBC seminary graduates who identify themselves as Calvinist conduct personal evangelism at a slightly higher rate than their peers who are not Calvinist. The report also found that although Calvinistic churches baptized fewer persons each year, their baptism rates were virtually identical to that of non-Calvinistic churches.

Ed Stetzer, director of LifeWay Research, appeared at the recent conference called, "Building Bridges: Southern Baptists and Calvinism." He states the numbers show that both sides in the debate need to get passionate about the Great Commission. "None of these baptism or growth numbers should make any of us happy," he says. "At the end of the day, Calvinists and non-Calvinists alike in our churches are failing to engage lostness in North America."

Stetzer also points out that while it is important to discuss theological issues, Southern Baptists must never lose focus of the scriptural mandate to witness for Christ. He says the debate between Calvinists and non-Calvinists should "provoke" each group to love one another and to be more passionate about witnessing. The Christian researcher points out that if current trends continue, Calvinism will continue to be a growing influence on the denomination.