[2] In June 1990, the theologically conservative Chapman, then still based in Wichita Falls, defeated the "moderate" Baptist choice, the Reverend Daniel Vestal of Dunwoody near Atlanta, Georgia for the SBC presidency.

'"[6] Addressing SBC delegates at a June 2004 convention, Chapman celebrated the success of the conservative resurgence, which he attributed to support from rank-and-file Baptists.

Chapman disputed the contention that Baptists had a negative image, and pointed out that the SBC was by no means a "white" organization since of the 43,071 churches 4,742 said they were mainly "ethnic" and 2,085 said they were mainly African-American.

This drew criticism as being unacceptable to Calvinists, and Chapman hastened to clarify that he was not denying the importance of faith but was asserting that it is a gift of God.

[15] The Great Commission Resurgence task force formed by SBC President Johnny Hunt, which was chaired by Ronnie Floyd, issued a report in May 2010 pressing for a revival of evangelism in the face of declining baptisms and outlining new responsibilities for Southern Baptist mission organizations.

[19] In his final report prior to his retirement to the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in Orlando in June 2010, Chapman said the last five recommendations of the task force did not sufficiently address spiritual needs, but instead concentrated on organizational issues.