What is sword of the lord controversy?

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The Sword of the Lord controversy refers to a dispute that arose in 1953 when evangelist Jack Hyles published an article in the Christian fundamentalist magazine "Sword of the Lord" criticizing the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) for its lack of support for fundamentalism. The controversy created a divide within the convention, with some members advocating for a stricter interpretation of biblical teachings and others calling for a more moderate approach.

The controversy gained momentum when Hyles was invited to speak at the 1957 SBC annual meeting in New York. His speech was interrupted by protesters who opposed his extreme views and were concerned about his influence on younger Southern Baptist ministers.

The controversy continued to simmer for years, with both sides of the debate engaging in theological debates, political maneuvering, and personal attacks. Ultimately, the Sword of the Lord controversy contributed to a shift in the Southern Baptist Convention, with more conservative factions gaining power and influence over the years.