Thoughts and observations from a Baptist perspective.
By Bruce T. Gourley
(Additional “A Baptist Perspective” blog entries are indexed here.)
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Of Baptists and the American Civil War … and More
In recent months, various writing ventures have occupied my time. One project that I am immersed in is the production of a new website focused on Baptists and the Civil War. Entitled “Baptists and the American Civil War: In Their Own Words,” the site is a day-by-day journal of the Baptist experience during the Civil War. As you may know, the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War begins this year, and this new site is a way to reflect upon the lessons learned (and in some cases, not yet fully learned) from a dark yet fascinating time in our nation’s history.
In addition, the January edition of Baptists Today features a piece I wrote entitled, “Christ and Capitalism in the 21st Century,” a brief examination of the historical background that led to the current relationship between capitalism and American Christianity.
Also, recent contributions to the Baptist Studies Bulletin have been an examination of Baptists and the Years 1830-1832 and of Baptists and Christmas.
The publication of my upcoming book, Diverging Loyalties: Baptists in Middle Georgia During the Civil War, is slated for publication by Mercer University Press later this year.
Also later this year will be the publication of my first book of Montana history (more information will be forthcoming in the coming months).
Finally, let me draw your attention to two Texas Baptist blogs produced by Bill Jones, who is doing great work in advancing the cause of our Baptist faith and heritage in the Lone Star State.
“Weighty Matters” is the blog of the TB Maston Foundation. Maston was a giant in the world of Christian ethics, and this blog, focused on current events and issues “viewed through the lens of biblical Christian ethics,” carries on his legacy.
The Texas Baptists Committed blog features the work of Bill in educating Baptists (in Texas and beyond) in historical Baptist principles. An important part of the blog is “Today’s Baptist Brief,” a short video feature highlighting a particular aspect of Baptist history and heritage.
Being a traditional Baptist in Texas is difficult these days, as fundamentalism (claiming a long history in the state) is experiencing a renewed resurgence among Baptists. I’m thankful for the work of Bill Jones and the TB Maston Foundation and Texas Baptists Committed.