Loose Reins, Tight Factions: The Southern Baptist Convention

One of the most powerful religious institutions in America is also one of the most chaotic. The Southern Baptist Convention, with its billion-dollar budget and massive political influence, operates without centralized authority or even an effective system of accountability. But as the Executive Committee meets in Nashville, Tennessee, this week, a long-simmering crisis of governance is coming to a head.

In this episode of Complexified, Amanda Henderson speaks with RNS reporter Bob Smietana to break down the scandals, factional divides and power struggles shaping the SBC today. The conversation delves into:

• The ongoing sexual abuse crisis and why a long-promised list of abusive pastors remains unfinished.
• Financial scandals involving millions of dollars in mismanagement at SBC institutions.
• The rising tension between pro-life advocates and abortion abolitionists pushing for extreme policies.
• The debate over refugee aid, immigration reform and the SBC’s relationship with the GOP.
• Why the SBC’s governance model — built on congregational independence — has made oversight nearly impossible.

With fights over money, power and theology unfolding behind closed doors, the SBC’s current turmoil is more than just denominational drama — it’s a mirror of America’s broader political and cultural battles.