IB eXtra

Gay marriage, a civil right?

We should have seen it coming. Back in 1989 two young activists pushing for the normalization of homosexuality coauthored a book intended to serve as a political strategy manual and public relations guide for their movement. Read more

Attorney: Church bylaws should define marriage

With the U.S. Supreme Court set to take up gay marriage and potentially legalize it this summer, churches that host wedding ceremonies or other events for traditional couples should examine their bylaws and shield themselves from the impact of possible litigation, says an attorney who specializes in religious liberty issues. Read more

Are Christians really bad tippers?

The blogosphere has been buzzing about the recent incident involving Pastor Alois Bell of the Truth in the World Deliverance Ministries Church and Applebee's server Chelsea Welch. If you haven't heard about the incident, here is a quick recap: Read more

Wedding Ceremony of Caleb and Laura Adams

A few days ago Nate Adams had the privilege of performing the wedding ceremony his son Caleb and Caleb's now wife Laura. As is true for most young couples, it was arguably the biggest moment of their lives. Adams was especially moved when the couple asked him to make sure the Gospel was clearly presented during the ceremony. Read the full version of their wedding ceremony

Mission trip timeline

Short-term mission trips traditionally have been mainly summer activities, but now, more Illinois Baptist churches are engaging their Acts 1:8 mission fields year-round. Because short-term mission strategies are becoming more common, the need for good planning is even more essential. Read more

Americans say homosexuality a civil rights issue

As public policy continues to change on the issue, a LifeWay Research poll shows 58 percent of American adults believe homosexuality is a civil rights issue and 64 percent say it is inevitable same-sex marriage will become legal throughout the United States. Read more

CALL TO PRAYER: Prop 8, DOMA at High Court

Christians need to intensify their prayers for the Supreme Court in the countdown days to its deliberations on same-sex marriage later this month, according to Frank S. Page, president of the SBC Executive Committee. Read more