Former SBC Presidents Debate ERLC’s Future Ahead of Annual Meeting
As the Southern Baptist Convention readies itself for its Annual Meeting in Dallas next month, a notable rift has emerged among former SBC leaders regarding the direction of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), the denomination’s public policy arm. A group of ten past presidents has signed a letter advocating for continued support of the ERLC, while former president Jack Graham calls for its defunding, arguing that the commission has become a divisive force within the Convention.
Graham, who has been leading Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas since 1989, has expressed strong disapproval of the ERLC. He contends that the commission has been a significant source of discord within the SBC since the era of Russell Moore, and he believes that it should no longer receive funding. According to his perspective, this fundamental disagreement is the reason he declined to sign the letter backing the commission.
The letter, endorsed by former presidents Bart Barber, Ed Litton, J.D. Greear, Steve Gaines, Fred Luter, Bryant Wright, James Merritt, Tom Elliff, Jim Henry, and Jimmy Draper, highlights the ERLC’s role in upholding Southern Baptist values, including its efforts in matters related to abortion, pornography, transgender ideology, and the promotion of traditional family values. Despite differing opinions on some aspects of the commission’s evolving mission, the signatories share a commitment to preserving an institution they believe is essential for defending religious liberty.
Current SBC President Clint Pressley, who did not sign the letter, emphasized his respect for his predecessors and stressed his commitment to conducting a fair meeting that honors God. His remarks come amid a longstanding debate over the future of the ERLC—a debate that has seen repeated proposals to defund or abolish the commission over the past several Annual Meetings. Although previous initiatives to make drastic changes have garnered some support, none have led to a formal vote, and similar proposals may surface again this year.
Adding to the conversation, Albert Mohler, president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, has voiced reservations about the ERLC’s relevance in modern times. Yet, he stops short of calling for its disbandment. In contrast, Richard D. Land, who presided over the ERLC from 1988 to 2013, defended the commission’s value, arguing that it is vital in helping Southern Baptists approach moral and policy challenges through a biblical lens. Land maintained that internal disagreements should be addressed through open dialogue and thoughtful reform rather than by eliminating the institution altogether.
Graham’s criticisms of the ERLC are not new. Dating back to 2016, he has been vocal in his disapproval—particularly following controversies involving statements made by former president Russell Moore. His objections have deepened over time, culminating in a decision by his church in 2017 to reexamine its financial contributions to the commission. More recently, his appointment to President Trump’s Religious Liberty Commission has amplified his public stance against the ERLC.
The letter from the former presidents decries extreme measures aimed at defunding the ERLC. It calls for a measured approach through responsible trustee governance and internal adjustments rather than radical cuts. Scott Foshie, chairman of the ERLC trustees, welcomed the expression of support and reaffirmed the trustees’ commitment to furthering the commission’s mission.
In closing, the former leaders urge their colleagues to engage in thoughtful prayer and active listening. They recommend voting with assurance should a motion to disband the ERLC arise, affirming that the commission continues to play an important role in helping Southern Baptists impact the public square in accordance with their faith.
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