Missions: Dare I Use The Word ‘Cooperate’?

Okay! Let’s just say it. Independent Baptist pastors are afraid of the word ‘cooperate.’ We run from anything that might even look like cooperation. And we justify this response by stating that all cooperation is compromise. Really? Not only is this unwise, it is unbiblical.

In a comment on a previous post on “Why Independent Baptist Missions Is Failing,” Greg Wilson said:

it seems in reaction to our distrust of the SBC Cooperative Program that we instituted an uncooperative one.

What a true statement. The effects of this lack of cooperation are more apparent in the area of evangelism and missions than in any other area of ministry. This lack of missions cooperation stems from a few problems. May I state them bluntly?

• Too many Independent Baptist Churches are isolated, not independent.
• Too many Independent Baptist pastors are more concerned with building their own kingdoms instead of God’s Kingdom. Pastors, we are shepherds of a flock, not kings of our own kingdoms. When we focus only on our local ministries to the neglect of God’s Kingdom, cooperation with other doctrinally sound churches is non-existent.
• Too many Independent Baptist Churches break fellowship and refuse to cooperate over non-doctrinal, extra-biblical issues. Should there be discernment? Absolutely! Are there times when it may be wise to not work with another church? Sure! But I am afraid that working together in the area of missions is currently not even considered as an option.

As long as this is the mentality in our churches missions will continue to suffer, missionaries will spend far too long on deputation, and millions of dollars will be wasted, all because of our ego.

Here are a few ways that we can begin moving toward this missions cooperation with churches of like faith who take a strong stand on the Gospel.

1) Pastors, stop criticizing other doctrinally sound churches for something they do that you do not prefer. The only reason to call out another church or another pastor is if they are teaching a false doctrine that is affecting your church. Even then, be careful.

2) Understand that it is the truth that should cause division, not our attitude about it. Enough said!

3) Realize that doctrinally sound churches are not in competition with each other. Before you can work with another doctrinally solid church you have to stop competing with them.

I am not yet completely sure what this cooperation among Independent Baptist Churches should look like, but I am convinced that it MUST exist if Independent Baptist Missions is to have a future.