Let’s Talk Before We Tear Down: A Word to Those Who Care

Love must lead where disagreement begins—but peace does not mean silence, and unity does not mean surrender.

In recent days, public accusations have been made by Pastor Jamal Bryant suggesting that the National Baptist Convention has abandoned a boycott effort and accepted a financial buyout from Target. We categorically deny these allegations. No financial agreement or “buyout” has occurred. Our only interaction with Target has been in the interest of peaceful dialogue and mutual understanding. There was no formal agreement made—only a commitment to continue open lines of communication as Christian leaders striving to speak the truth in love.

What concerns us most, however, is not just the misinformation, but the manner in which Pastor Bryant has represented himself as the singular voice of the Black Baptist tradition while bypassing the very leaders and institutions he now criticizes. We remind the public that when Pastor Bryant issued a public apology to the LGBTQ+ community on behalf of “Black Baptists,” he did so without consultation, consensus, or authority from our denomination or its leadership. Similarly, the boycott of Target—though it may have had honorable intentions—was launched and branded in his name, not through collaboration with any official Baptist entity. It is therefore inconsistent to accuse others of abandonment when no unity or consensus was ever pursued.

This pattern reflects a deeper problem, one that Scripture itself illuminates. Throughout the Bible, there are individuals who, when not followed, blame the collective. In Numbers 16, Korah and his followers accused Moses and Aaron of exalting themselves, when in fact they were the ones resisting God’s appointed order. In 1 Samuel 15, Saul blamed the people for sparing the best sheep and oxen when he disobeyed God’s command, refusing to take responsibility for his own impulsive actions. And in 3 John 9–10, the Apostle John warns of Diotrephes, “who loves to be first,” and refuses to work with others in the body, instead spreading false accusations. These are sobering reminders of what happens when personal ambition is confused with prophetic authority.

In contrast to this individualistic approach, the National Baptist Convention operates with spiritual accountability and collective wisdom. We are not driven by personality, popularity, or public perception. Our decisions are prayerfully made through councils, delegations, and denominational dialogue. Where Jamal Bryant has operated independently—even defiantly—the NBC has consistently sought unity and discernment. While we may not be perfect, we strive to walk in step with the Spirit and remain accountable to the Body.

It is for this reason that we reject being labeled as “cowards” or “sellouts” simply because we did not align with one man’s unauthorized movement. To the contrary, we believe in peace without passivity, and truth without tyranny. We will not capitulate to spiritual coercion or name-calling masquerading as prophetic rebuke. The very independence that Pastor Bryant enjoys is the same freedom he now condemns in others. That is not integrity. That is hypocrisy.

In fact, the Scriptures give us a better way. In Genesis 26, Isaac repeatedly dug wells only to have them seized by others. Rather than fight, he moved on and dug again—until finally, space was made for him, and the Lord gave him peace and increase. In Job 42, after deep misunderstanding and wrongful accusations, Job prayed for his friends. God honored that humility and restored everything to him, double what was lost. These stories remind us that peace does not make us weak—it positions us for God’s blessing.

Finally, while we understand that prophetic voices often challenge systems and traditions, we reject the attempt to label dissent as disloyalty. We are not bound to follow those who refuse to walk with us. To label fellow believers as enemies simply because they choose dialogue over division is not righteous anger—it is spiritual manipulation. And to weaponize public platforms to tear down rather than build up the Body of Christ is not prophetic—it is harmful. Some might even say it borders on ecclesial terrorism—using chaos and accusation to extract influence and conformity.

We will not return evil for evil, nor accusation for accusation. But we will continue to pursue peace, dialogue, and unity—even with those who attack us. As Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” That is our aim.

We invite Pastor Bryant and all others who share a concern for the spiritual, moral, and economic future of our people to join us in that spirit—not through intimidation, but through cooperation. For only in unity does the Church shine, and only through grace will we win the respect of the world we are called to reach.

Respectfully submitted,

Thomas Savage Jr,

A product, financial member, hopefully leader and supporter of the:

The National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.