At the recent Building Bridges conference my president and friend Danny Akin presented a stirring challenge, calling the convention to a Great Commission Resurgence.  I am obviously prejudiced, but I believe President Akin to be one of the most, if not the most, capable leaders of our time.  His message (heard online not live) took me back to my seminary days, and gave me great hope for the students I now teach. My first annual SBC meeting came in 1985 … →

            Last week something happened I rarely ever see, something for which I am thankful to God at this season.  On a recent trip to South Carolina, I had the privilege of enjoying lunch with a former student.  He with me the joys and struggles of the church he currently serves as pastor. He noted one area of controversy—music (surprise, surprise). He had recently installed a projection system to put the words on a screen. One prominent church member promptly … →

“Misfortune shows those who are not really friends.” – Aristotle             The past few weeks I have enjoyed time with some great old friends. Well, not TOO old, but long time friends for sure.  I spend a weekend in Louisiana with John Avant and his wife Donna. Staying at their house, worshiping at the great First Baptist Church of West Monroe, and ministering with John all blessed me. Top that off with a great time of ministry with my friends … →