This letter is in reference to the International Mission Board policy which says that “if private prayer language is an ongoing part of his or her conviction and practice, the candidate has eliminated himself or herself from being a representative of the IMB of the SBC.”
The infallibility of the word of God is at stake. On its website, the IMB says, “Our basic commitment is obedience to the lordship of Jesus Christ and to God’s infallible word.”
God’s word addresses this issue in 1 Corinthians 14. Paul, who had the gift of tongues, is speaking about orderliness in worship. Verse 28 states: “If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God.” This is your private prayer language. Also in verse 39, Paul further states: “Therefore, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues.” God’s word states explicitly that the Holy Spirit gives the spiritual gifts as he determines (1 Corinthians 12:11).
By imposing this new policy, the IMB is contradicting the word of God. Our missionaries need to hold that God’s word is infallible; nothing need be added or subtracted. We are on very dangerous ground. All Satan needs is a little bit of room to come in. His tactics include finding error in God’s holy word – “Did God really say…?”
We must not be silent. The International Mission Board’s integrity is our responsibility.
The trustees must know that the people of God expect them to uphold the word of God as it is written. This policy must be changed; the IMB’s work must not be allowed to suffer.
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