Mid-America Messenger-Winter 2018

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MID-AMERICA

WINTER 2018


P R E S I D E N T ’ S Page

CHAMPIONING A HEART FOR EVANGELISM BY D R . MIC HA EL SPR A D LIN In Psalm 18, David proclaims he will give thanks to the Lord among the nations (Psalm 18:49). I love this verse for two reasons: because it expresses gratitude to our great God for His love, and because it connects that gratitude with sharing among the nations. Our thankfulness to God should spur us on to evangelism. The Lord Jesus’ heart for the lost world should be the heart of every one of His followers. With so many lost people in the world, we can witness as much as we want and never run out of opportunities. What an exciting time to be alive! Mid-America’s focus on evangelism is more than just an academic exercise. It is a life-long pattern of obedience to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and a passion for seeing souls saved. Thank you for being a part of the Mid-America family and for being a part of this great evangelistic enterprise. With the Lord’s help, we can impact the nations for Christ, see people saved, and grow through belonging to a Jesus-loving, Spirit-filled, local church. Truly, it is time to give thanks among the nations.

Captain of the Mid-America Soul-Winning Army Dr. Michael Spradlin, Mid-America President, recently shared Christ at the reunion of the 43rd Bombardment Group, which he wrote about in his book, Sons of the 43rd. Read about other books from Dr. Spradlin and the Mid-America family on pages 16–17. Photo: R Scott Stover Photography


contents VOLUME 46, NUMBER 2 | WINTER 2018 Published by the Mid-America family of educational institutions

PRESIDENT Michael Spradlin, PHD EDITOR Nathan Cole CONTENT COORDINATOR Carol Wilson DESIGN Eternity Communications

A LEGACY OF EVANGELISM The theme of this winter issue of the Mid-America Messenger is evangelism, which along with missions and the Word, are the three focal points of a Mid-America education. This inspiring issue highlights our legacy of witnessing for Christ, a passion being passed on to the next generation.

THE DNA OF MID-AMERICA This conversation between Nathan Cole, Mid-America’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement, and Dr. B. Gray Allison, Founder and President Emeritus, underscores why soul-winning is as important today as ever before.

STUDENT TESTIMONIES Practical missions, through Witness One:Seven and the GO! Program, are much more than part of Mid-America’s heritage. Encouraging new stories emerge each week from our students, faculty, and staff about everyday evangelism.

HATS OFF TO OUR COLLEGE The College at Mid-America had its official Convocation and ribbon cutting ceremony during Founders’ Days in August 2018. Read about the highlights and exciting new plans already on the horizon for the growing college.

CONNECT P.O. Box 2350 Cordova, Tennessee 38088-2350 901-751-8453

WITH MID-AMERICA

4 8 18

WEB | mabts.edu | collegeatmidamerica.com EMAIL | info@mabts.edu SOCIAL

 Facebook.com/midamericabaptist  Twitter.com/mabts  Instagram.com/mabts_


MID-AMERICA’S LEGACY OF EVANGELISM BEGINS WITH OUR FOUNDER

COLE: Dr. Gray, why was weekly

before you know it, he had given his life

personal evangelism by students so

to Christ. But I wouldn’t have ever been

important to include when you founded

able to talk to that guy in that situation if

MABTS?

I hadn’t had so much practice through

ALLISON: New Orleans Baptist

earlier opportunities.

Theological Seminary had done

COLE: I’ve heard some people talk about

something very similar in the mid-1940s

a blank paper technique? Would you tell

led by Roland Leavell, and it was still

me what that is?

know about DNA?

going on when I went there. I saw it, and

ALLISON: This all sounds like bragging,

DR. B. GRAY ALLISON: Well, I know I

I believed in it. I saw how it changed

and I don’t like talking about it because

people’s lives, and I saw how it changed

God is the One Who does it all and

NATHAN COLE: Dr. Gray, what do you

have some of it. Is that good enough?

students’ lives. After I graduated, they

deserves all the credit. For some reason

DNA is self-replicating material in

asked me to stay and teach, and they

He just chose to use us and me to share

an organism that carries genetic

asked me to direct the program. We did

the Gospel. I was just a kid who was

information. It is also a fitting analogy for

some things to expand it and saw God

terribly introverted and whose family

what evangelism means to Mid-America.

move and many people saved. Originally,

called me Boo-Budder (my brother’s

As we share Christ’s love with the lost

we sent a bus of students out two nights

version of new brother) from Ida,

around us, much like DNA, we replicate

a week into the French Quarter areas

Louisiana. God told us to have a heart

in other’s hearts the desire to go and tell

around New Orleans. When the students

for the lost, and I wanted to do what He

more people about Christ. Like our belief

started sharing at report hour on

told us to do. So, I tried to talk to people

that the Bible is the inerrant Word of

Tuesdays, it got everyone’s boilers fired

as many times as I could. Sometimes

God and our unwavering commitment to

up. We saw some really special things.

people said, “Stop talking to me about

missions, personal evangelism comprises

One student who was severely disabled

this!” or, “I don’t want to talk about

a major part of Mid-America’s intrinsic

in his ability to speak ended up being

this again.” If I ran into one that was

structure or genetic code. For 46 years,

one of the best soul-winners we had. I

really bucking and said they weren’t

all students have been required to take

remember thinking if that guy can do it,

interested, I asked them to take out

Dr. Allison’s Personal Evangelism class

God can use anyone to do it.

a piece of paper and write, “I will not

during their first semester. This class is

COLE: How does Witness One:Seven

under any circumstances or conditions

a rite of passage shared by almost all

benefit a student’s life after seminary?

repent of my sins and give my life to

Mid-America graduates. They understand

Why is it so important?

Jesus Christ.” I asked them, “Would you

the importance of evangelism, and Dr.

ALLISON: If they don’t learn how to

sign that?” And they said, “No, man!” I

Allison’s teaching strongly influenced

share the Gospel in seminary, they won’t

still haven’t had anyone to sign it, by the

them. In the following interview, Dr.

learn it. They have to learn how to talk

way (laughter). I asked them, “Why not?

Allison—as sharp and committed to

to people and how to verbally initiate a

That’s what you are telling me.” Some

sharing Jesus as ever—explains why

conversation with someone. I remember

of them ended up trusting the Lord

personal evangelism was built into Mid-

one time I was on Bourbon Street and

because they kept thinking

America’s DNA and how this important

passed by a man waiting to go see a

about what they said and

feature is still applicable today.

girly show. I started talking to him and

thought, what if?


A Legacy of Evangelism

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

5


6

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

COLE: Are there any particular Scripture

COLE: When the masses outside the

ALLISON: There is no difference. The

passages you’ve used over the years that

church say religion is off limits, and you

lost need Him, and the one-on-one

were most influential during discussions

shouldn’t talk about it, what would you

conversations sound very similar. I think

like this?

say to a student, pastor, or a donor who

there is more resistance to personal

ALLISON: I’ve used a lot of verses, but

hears this?

witnessing coming from believers today,

some over and over because they are

ALLISON: I’d say read your New

but Jesus said to go and tell, and we need

right to the point, like Isaiah 53:6, “All

Testament and see what Jesus said.

to do what Jesus says. We need to make

we like sheep have gone astray; we have

Who’s our Commander? Jesus. What did

it simple. We are all simple through the

turned every one to his own way; and

He say to do? He said go tell everybody,

Word. Put it in them through the Word,

the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of

and then He selected 12 to do it, too.

and it won’t leave them. That’s why you

us all.” People can forget what you say,

COLE: Were there opponents of

need to give them the verses because

but not what the Bible says.

Mid-America’s continuous commitment

they can’t forget it. The Word pokes,

COLE: Some say, in today’s culture, it’s

to evangelism?

beats, and burns. You have to know

taboo to talk about faith as we are in a

ALLISON: Sure! There was pushback

the Word, and you have to study. You

post-Christian age. In the 1950s if you

from everywhere. Students would say

won’t learn it by osmosis. I saw a man

tried to witness to someone— (Dr. Gray

no. Professors would say no. I would just

in Alabama one time who was crying in

interjects)

tell them there are other good schools;

his kitchen because he had just given

ALLISON: They said the same thing

go find one that fits you better. People

his life to the Lord. His little boy came in

back then, too.

would always say, “Gray, this is legalism.”

the room, and I said, “Tell him what just

I would tell them, maybe it is, but it’s

happened to you.” And he said, “I can’t

biblical. The disciples did it. Jesus did it.

explain it.” I said, “I didn’t say explain it.

So, Mid-America is going to do it, too.

I told you to tell him what just happened

COLE: How is soul-winning the same or

to you.” He started saying God has saved

different in 2018 than it was in 1972?

him and he just gave his life to God, and then he started crying and couldn’t tell him anymore. Then, his little boy gave his life to the Lord. Some of the best witnessing I’ve heard is from people who have just been saved because it is simple, and it is real. We get the idea that it’s our words and how we say them, but all the time it’s the Word of God. I’m not saying knowing how to explain salvation isn’t important, but I’m saying it has to start and finish with the Word of God. May the Lord continue to bless us through those who’ve come before us, and those who will “go and tell” until their dying day.

Nathan Cole serves as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Mid-America. Dr. B. Gray Allison founded Mid-America in 1972, is President Emeritus, and still serves as Professor of Church History, Evangelism, Missions, and Homiletics.


NORTHEAST IS WHITE UNTO HARVEST, YET REQUIRES STEADFAST COMMITMENT TO WITNESSING BY D R . MIK E HAGGA R D

percent evangelized. In my mind, the

him and transforming them from

fields here are white unto harvest and

addicts, alcoholics, and violent trouble

there are so many that need to hear the

makers to men free from all these things.

saving message of Christ. I have set a

I shared the Gospel with Omar on

weekly time that I go to one of the rescue

two different occasions using the stories

missions here in the Capital District of

of Nicodemus in John 3 and the rich

New York.

young ruler in Luke 18 as background

THERE ARE PEOPLE FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD and from all walks

material. In both of those texts, Jesus was referred to as a “Good Teacher�

of life in rescue missions. In most cases,

which is what the average Muslim

Many years ago as a young believer, I

they are open to the Gospel message. I

believes Jesus was just a Good Teacher.

engaged in a discipleship program that

shared the Gospel with a Muslim a few

God, in His goodness, has given Omar a

included how to learn to share your

weeks ago who was staying at the mission.

front-row seat to see His transforming

faith. Even though I have known the

For purposes of this article, I will call him

work in the lives of others. And Omar

mechanics of soul-winning for some

Omar, but that is not his real name.

has taken notice.

time now, I struggle with consistency.

As I got to know Omar, I learned that

Sadly, Omar has not prayed to

One thing that really helps me be

he is a practicing Muslim. He prays five

receive Christ, but what a vantage point

consistent is having a designated time to

times a day and adheres to other tenants

he has to see God at work. So pray for

go and a specific place to witness.

of the Muslim faith. Omar testified to

him and remember that there are Omars

me that there is one thing at the mission

in every city and in every state waiting to

area of the United States, an area that

he had never seen before: God actually

hear the good news. Go find one and let

some missiologists conclude is only 3

working in the lives of the men around

your soul-winning journey begin.

I SERVE IN THE NORTHEAST


A MID-AMERICA TRADITION, REPORT HOUR IN CHAPEL EACH TUESDAY MORNING IS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR FACULTY, STAFF, AND STUDENTS TO SHARE TESTIMONIES OF EXPERIENCES THEY HAVE HAD IN SHARING THE GOSPEL AS PART OF OUR WITNESS ONE:SEVEN AND GO! PROGRAM.


Practical Missions

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

9

JEREMY MASER, BACHELOR STUDENT FROM NEW ORLEANS

MANDWELL DUNCAN, ASSOCIATE STUDENT FROM TAMPA

believe. He agreed to it, so I walked him

I serve as a police officer in the Memphis

I volunteer at the Memphis Union

“Two Ways to Live.” It’s a presentation

area and had an opportunity recently to

Mission on Saturdays, and I was

that explains the story of the Bible from

share Christ with a prisoner. His name

assigned to a gentleman named Charles.

creation, the fall, Jesus’ death, burial,

was Nathan, and he was incarcerated on

Upon meeting him the first time last

resurrection, and return. Although he did

drug-related charges. After being in jail

semester, he was not sure Who Jesus

not decide for salvation, it was obvious

for several days, he became depressed

Christ was. After talking with him and

the Word of God penetrated his heart. Be

and wanted to speak to a minister. Our

going through the Gospels, I began

praying for him and me as we continue

city is small and doesn’t have a minister

to see him grow spiritually. In July, I

our dialogue moving forward.

on staff. The jailer on duty knew I was

went to Florida to spend time with my

a student at MABTS, so he called me to

family. The whole time I was there I

speak with Nathan. I walked him through

kept Charles in my prayers. When I

WILSTER VONN VILLONDO, MDIV STUDENT FROM THE PHILIPPINES

several Scripture passages, revealing

came back in August and connected

his sinful stance before God. He didn’t

with Charles again, we started talking,

surrender to Christ, but a Gospel seed

and from his conversation and how

was planted in his life because someone

he carried himself, I could see he was

knew of my witness for Christ through

different because he had accepted Jesus

MABTS. Please pray for Nathan.

Christ into his life. I told Charles I could

ISAIAS UAENE, PHD STUDENT FROM MOZAMBIQUE, AFRICA

see a difference in him. He has a joy about him that only Jesus Christ can

through the Gospel presentation titled,

This week I began an ESL curriculum with a Muslim refugee man from my neighborhood named Samson (not his real name). The materials I use have a story from the Bible each week. This week we did the creation story from Genesis 1. My friend was able to read the story from the Bible in his language. I emphasized the central truth of God as

This summer, my family and I went to

give.

Maputo, Mozambique, and, among other

in His image—and shared the Gospel

ministry opportunities, we organized

CHRISTOPHER LABELLE, MDIV STUDENT FROM MICHIGAN

a Good News Festival. We saw about

I work at FedEx and had an opportunity

engaged me in conversation about what

3,500 people come to the event, and

to talk to a coworker about Jesus. His

we read, and asked for someone to teach

many lives responded in faith that Jesus

name is Stephen. It started when he told

English to his wife, too. I plan to continue

Christ is their Lord and Savior. When I

me about how he used to attend church

English lessons. I pray that God’s Word

returned to the States, together with my

but stopped going for the last five years.

and the Spirit reveal truth in Samson’s

wife and daughter, we went door-to-door

I asked if I could share with him what I

heart that he may know Jesus.

witnessing. Some people demonstrated an interest to follow Jesus. Henry, a resident of Cordova, took the Gospel story seriously and decided to accept Jesus Christ. He made the decision after I shared my personal testimony and showed him in the Scriptures that Jesus Christ died for mankind. Please pray with me for those who responded to the Gospel message at the festival and here in Memphis.

(Left to right) Quezia and Isaias Uaene, Wilster Vonn Villondo, Jeremy Maser, Dr. Brad Roderick, Mandwell Duncan, and Christopher Labelle.

Creator—especially that He created us with him. Samson was excited to learn,


STUDENTS HELP REVITALIZE CHURCH BY D R. F LOYD PA R IS In March, I became the Senior Pastor of my home

WITNESS ONE:SEVEN & GO! PROGRAM REPORT FALL 2018

church, Leawood Baptist Church. I grew up in this neighborhood, attended this church as a child, and made my public profession of faith at Leawood. It was here that the Lord called me into the ministry. It was here that I served as the first full-time Minister of Youth under Dr. Jerry Glisson. When I returned as Pastor, it was to a very different community and in some ways a different church. The community is now multiethnic, as well as the congregation. Worship attendance is down from 1,600 to just over 100. From a worldly perspective things seemed bleak, but God was up to something. He was breathing new life into His people, and they were praying we would grow again. Immediately, I was reminded that we are to pray for laborers rather than the harvest. The Lord laid on my heart to send out a call for help to MABTS. Dr. Michael Spradlin allowed me the opportunity to share in Chapel and explain the needs of Leawood. In true MABTS style, the students responded. Nine students showed up for a meeting to see the church and the church field. We began prayerwalking and sharing in the community. Other students began to get involved, and we began reaching out. Brad Fowler, David Gates, Lawrence McKensie, and William Rouse, to name a few, became important parts of the ongoing ministries here. Once again, the Lord was doing a new thing here at Leawood. Attendance began to increase, excitement began to grow, and revitalization began. Our attendance is now around 200 each week and growing. Our people continue to seek to share with the people of this community. The students from MABTS are part of a wonderful experience of ministering in a revitalization location. Revitalization can happen, by God’s amazing grace lived out through His people. I praise the Lord for the men and women who are attending Mid-America. It is not only a place of academic exercises, but also a training facility for the next generation. MABTS students are making a difference at Leawood Baptist Church.

TENNESSEE NEW YORK TOTAL

PRACTICAL MISSIONS 753

28 781

PERSONS WITNESSED TO 497 124 621 PROFESSIONS OF FAITH

25

5 30

SERMONS PREACHED

95

15 110

Witness One:Seven and GO! Program reported August 1, 2018–October 10, 2018

PROFESSIONS OF FAITH SINCE 1972 = 165,171


Mid-America Team

MID-AMERICA WELCOMES NEW ASSOCIATE DEAN OF COLLEGE AND DIRECTOR OF CAMPUS LIFE

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

11

that I fully surrendered my life to

I want students to create lasting

vocational ministry and enrolled at Mid-

friendships and memories as they

America. I started working at Bellevue

connect with peers and professors. In

Baptist Church as a college intern. I

short, I want our students to feel like

then became a speaker for Campus

they are part of the Mid-America family.

Crusade for Christ and ended up serving

To accomplish this huge task, we are

at Collierville First Baptist Church for

in the process of developing small

five years in various roles including

groups, recreational sports, and monthly

college, middle school, and high school.

activities for all Mid-America students.

Mid-America welcomes new Associate

It was there I met my wonderful, loving,

The future of Mid-America is very bright.

Dean of The College at Mid-America

beautiful, smart, adoring wife, Emily.

and Director of Campus Life, Dr. Mikey

She has been a tremendous blessing to

Mewborn.

me throughout my years of ministry.

WHAT ARE SOME INTERESTS OR HOBBIES OF YOURS?

TELL US ABOUT YOUR STORY AND HOW YOU ENDED UP IN MEMPHIS.

WHERE ARE YOU SERVING NOW?

time for anything else. I truly enjoy

I am blessed to serve as pastor of

spending time with my amazing wife

I was born and reared in Tampa, Florida.

Emmanuel Baptist Church in Collierville.

and trying new restaurants. I also enjoy

When I was 8 years old, my dad took

We have been there for eight years and

playing guitar, drums, and piano when

a job with Northwest Airlines, and

truly love the people of EBC. They have

I get the chance. My favorite activities

we moved to Memphis. We attended

loved and supported me through the

include golfing, water skiing, snow

Hickory Ridge Baptist Church. One

PHD program, as well as my new roles

skiing, and

Sunday evening, I surrendered my life to

at Mid-America. Every year, I continue

softball.

Jesus Christ and was later baptized. The

to see God’s grace and favor upon my

These days,

following year, we moved back to Tampa

church family.

I would

where I lived until I finished college.

settle for

TELL US WHY YOU CHOSE TO COME TO MID-AMERICA.

WE HEAR YOU HAVE HAD SOME OTHER EXCITING CHANGES IN YOUR LIFE.

During my last two years of college, I

Oh yes, after nine amazing years of

worked in the student ministry of Davis

marriage, the Lord blessed Emily and

Islands Baptist Church in Tampa. My

me with a beautiful little son, John

pastor, Jeff Parrish, encouraged me to

Wesley Mewborn. Wesley was born on

consider pursuing a master’s degree

May 24 this year. He is a precious, little,

at Mid-America, and we visited. I was

red-headed boy with big blue eyes.

completely convinced that God had led

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT IN YOUR NEW ROLE AS ASSOCIATE DEAN OF THE COLLEGE AND DIRECTOR OF CAMPUS LIFE?

me here. It was Mid-America’s focus on evangelism and missions that drew me to this wonderful institution. I am blessed that God has led me to serve in the very city in which I came to know Christ.

Since having a baby, there is not much

a great night‘s sleep.

I look forward to impacting

CAN YOU SHARE ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY IN THE MINISTRY?

the lives of students on a

I felt the Lord calling me to Gospel

them to Christ and

ministry at age 14, but I tried to avoid.

His calling on their

It was not until my last year at the

lives. While at

University of South Florida (Go Bulls!)

Mid-America,

daily basis by pointing

Dr. Mikey Mewborn Associate Dean of the College at Mid-America and Director of Campus Life


WINTER & SPRING

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

PHD SEMINAR WEEKS

December 4

March 25–April 12, 2019

FALL GRADUATION

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS DUE FOR FALL SEMESTER

December 7

NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION AND REGISTRATION January 11, 2019

DMIN SEMINARS January 14–18, 2019

SPRING SEMESTER CLASSES BEGIN January 22, 2019

CAMPUS REVIVAL February 12–14, 2019

SPRING BREAK March 11–22, 2019

SPRING PREVIEW DAY March 26, 2019

April 1, 2019

DMIN SEMINARS April 8–12, 2019

MID-AMERICA PASSION PLAY April 11–14, 2019

SPRING ORIENTATION AND REGISTRATION FOR INCOMING FALL STUDENTS April 26, 2019

LAST DAY TO SUBMIT DMIN APPLICATIONS May 1, 2019

SPRING GRADUATION May 17, 2019

SUMMER ORIENTATION AND REGISTRATION FOR INCOMING FALL STUDENTS June 5, 2019



World-Class

FACULTY


Faculty Achievements

MID-AMERICA FACULTY OFFER EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE

PERSONAL INVOLVEMENT

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

work in practical ministries. Some

American Commentary series), Nahum-

professors served as missionaries on

Malachi (the Holman Old Testament

the international and North American

Commentary series), Winsome Words for

fields. Others pastored churches

Willing Witnesses, and Sons of the 43rd.

throughout the nation. Faculty service

(Turn the page for more books by the

includes leading various denominational

Mid-America family.)

agencies. Music professors led congregations and choirs in some of the largest churches in America, including

One of the most common statements

Bellevue Baptist in Memphis and First

by students about why they chose

Baptist Dallas.

Mid-America is the responsiveness

15

Faculty are involved in multiethnic

GLOBAL IMPACT

Professors have vast experience internationally. Many of them participate

of faculty. The professors take time to

and African-American congregations,

in short-term missions trips throughout

get acquainted and pray with them. They

and church planting in northern and

the world. Academic work overseas

maintain an open-door policy and are

southern states. Professors are leading

includes leading groups to Israel, Egypt,

available not only for academic advising,

church educational programs in

Greece, and Italy and participating in

but also for casual conversations and

significant congregations.

an archaeological excavation at Gezer, Israel. Some faculty taught in various

spiritual counsel. They see students as friends and share their lives with authenticity.

CHURCH LEADERSHIP

PUBLISHING PLATFORMS

If you attended an adult Sunday School class at a Southern Baptist church any

schools around the globe.

VOCATIONAL EXPERIENCE

time during the past 20 years, you

The secular world benefited from the

Such personal care reflects the pastoral

studied curriculum material written

work of various professors before they

nature of Mid-America’s faculty. Most

by Mid-America faculty. Some of these

joined the Mid-America faculty. One was

faculty members served as pastors,

quarterlies are used by more than one

the CEO of an information technology

church planters, church staff, or

million adults annually. More than

company. Another was a senior

missionaries prior to coming to teach at

100,000 Bible study teachers use

executive in a major pharmaceutical

Mid-America. Many currently serve in

the adult teacher materials. Faculty

corporation. A third served as head of

area churches. They have the hearts of

members also write for a broad range of

a Christian school. All have a variety

shepherds and carry that attitude over

academic journals and other periodicals.

of work experience prior to their calls

into their teaching ministry.

Mid-America professors are members

to ministry, enabling them to relate to

of various professional societies,

people of all walks of life.

ACADEMIC CREDENTIALS

such as the Evangelical Theological

Yes, Mid-America professors have

Society, the Evangelical Missiological

lots of work to their credit, but all of

Society, and the Evangelical Homiletics

them would simply want to be known as

Each professor holds top academic

Society. One faculty member served

servants of Jesus Christ and friends of

degrees from recognized schools

on the translation team for the Holman

those who seek to follow Him. Whether

(including Mid-America, New Orleans,

Christian Standard Bible.

as a student, donor, or friend, you will

and Southern seminaries, Columbia

Professors wrote numerous books

find them available to you and interested

University, and others). Students not

ranging from biblical studies and

in you. They will not brag about personal

only learn the academic side of their

doctrinal treatises to help missionaries,

accomplishments but will glorify Jesus

courses at the highest levels, but also

families, pastors, and others. Titles

“that in all things He might have the

learn how to put their education to

include subjects such as Daniel (the New

preeminence.”


BOOKS, BLOGS, & MORE: PUBLISHED BY MID-AMERICA FACULTY AND ALUMNI

Studies in Genesis: A Creation Commentary

Pastors Against Hitler: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Church Struggle in Nazi Germany (5 Fold Media, 2018)

Relentless: Pursuing Christ at All Costs (YM360, 2015)

Relentless centers around the concept of

Edited by Dr. Michael Spradlin, this

Dr. Mike Haggard | Director of Northeast Campus

captivating, verse-by-verse commentary

Bonhoeffer wrote much on the cost of

of a world that is increasingly hostile to

on Genesis 1–11 uses a literal

discipleship, and when persecution

the things of God. Relentless challenges

interpretation of Scripture with analyses

came, Bonhoeffer stood ready to pay

students to pursue Jesus in a way

of evolutionary thought. In all ways,

that cost. Read Pastors Against Hitler

where nothing else comes first. Another

Genesis is foundational, and this book

and be inspired by a leadership example

outstanding book by Dr. Newton: My

is an essential resource for students,

extraordinaire. Dr. Haggard also blogs at

8: Embrace and Engage the Wonder of

pastors, Bible teachers, and all believers.

mabtsne.edu/blog.

Evangelism.

Managing Stress in the Christian Family (Innovo, 2016)

Encountering the History of Missions (Baker Academic, 2017)

Dr. Jere Phillips | Professor, Department of Practical Theology

Dr. John Mark Terry | Chairman of the Missions Department

How to Win Your Child’s Heart for Life: 8 Proven Strategies for Parents

Christian families experience stress just

Coauthored with Robert L. Gallagher,

Melanie Redd | MACE, 2014

like all other families. This book includes

this new addition to the “Encountering

Find out how you can win and keep

practical tools for handling stress based

Missions” series by Dr. John Mark

your children’s hearts for life with

on solid biblical principles. It speaks

Terry is intended to become the “go

these eight tried and proven parenting

to parents, teens, and children with

to” textbook for seminary classes on

strategies. Each chapter includes

solutions for resolving conflict, dealing

missions. It tells the story of centuries

practical instruction, principles from the

with bullies, managing time and money,

of missions history complete with

Bible, and questions for reflection and

building sound relationships, and

biographical portraits, insightful

discussion, perfect for small group study.

strategies for achieving peace.

sidebars, and challenging case studies.

Read her blog at melanieredd.com.

(Innovo, 2018) Dr. R. David Skinner | Retired MidAmerica Professor and Academic VP

Dr. Ed Newton | MARE, 2000 Perfect for a DNow or retreat weekend, living a bold, relentless faith in the midst

(Redd Ink Publishing, 2016)


Thought Leadership from the Mid-America Family

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

17

Biblical Counseling library of books at INS Publishing

One Cry: A Nationwide Call for Spiritual Awakening

Evidence (blog) confirmedword.blogspot.com

Dr. Jay Adams | Founder of Mid-America’s Institute for Nouthetic Studies

Bill Elliff | DMIN, 1993 Coauthored with Byron Paulus, OneCry

Dr. Kirk Kilpatrick | Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew

Many books by Dr. Jay E. Adams,

gives voice to a surging movement of

Filled with news and insights from the

founder of the modern biblical

diverse Jesus-followers who recognize

world of archeology and history, this

counseling movement and author of

the profound brokenness all around

blog examines evidence that relates to

the groundbreaking book Competent

us. Charting a journey toward revival, it

the claims of Jesus and the accuracy of

to Counsel, are now available through

embraces the hope that God powerfully

the Bible (2 Peter 1:19). Active since 2007,

Mid-America’s INS Publishing at

delivers and restores Christ-followers

the blog has more than 45,000 visitors.

insbookstore.com. Titles such as The

who unite and cry out in repentance,

Also, a free book is available at the blog:

Christian Counselor’s Manual and many

prayer, and obedience. Available at

Follow Me: First Steps for New Believers.

more are now available in one place.

onecrybook.com.

Matthew (Exegetical Guide to the Greek New Testament)

Christian Higher Education: Faith, Teaching, and Learning in the Evangelical Tradition (Crossway, 2018)

Know Be Do: Turning the Christian Life Right Side Up

Most Christians define Christianity by what

The latest New Testament study from Dr.

Dr. Christopher W. Morgan | MDIV, 1996; PHD, 1999

Charles Quarles, this guide closes the gap

Coedited with Dr. David Dockery and

the Christian life right side up. It shows

between the Greek text and the available

hot off the press, this compilation of

you how to intimately know God, how to

lexical and grammatical tools, providing

29 authors offers a renewed vision for

employ your position in Christ (be), and

for greater understanding of the text.

the distinctive work of Christian higher

how to appropriate His power (do). The

This series is perfect for those who are

education. Dr. Morgan has served as editor

Know Be Do Bible Study Resource booklet for

hard pressed for time but want to preach

for a number of works, including the best-

small groups is also available. Thompson

or teach with accuracy and authority.

selling Theology in Community series.

also blogs at larryalanthompson.com.

(B&H Academic, 2017) Dr. Charles Quarles | MDIV, 1989; PHD, 1994

(WestBow Press, 2016) Larry Thompson | MDIV, 1995 they do and don’t do. Know Be Do turns


College officially launches with Convocation and new degree plans


College Update

QUESTION & ANSWER WITH DR. BRAD THOMPSON, COLLEGE DEAN

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

19

has asked to use our proposal for the

MESSENGER: Speaking of academics,

degree in Business Administration at

I heard you recently presented a paper

their annual conference as an example

at the WEI Academic Conference on

for other schools to use.

Business & Economics, Education and

MESSENGER: Congratulations! It

Social Sciences in Rome, Italy.

sounds like the College is doing well. You

THOMPSON: Yes, they invited me to

mentioned a master’s degree?

serve as a session chair and to present

MESSENGER: How are things going at

THOMPSON: Yes, the College is

research with other scholars from

The College at Mid-America?

planning to offer its first master’s degree

around the world.

THOMPSON: Very well. We had a

next year, the Master of Arts in Biblical

MESSENGER: What was the focus of

great time at the ribbon cutting and

Counseling.

your research?

Convocation for the College at the start

MESSENGER: Interesting. Can you say

THOMPSON: I wrote on the idea

of our school year. Dr. Ken Ham (below),

something about the degree?

of collaborative action research in

the President and CEO of Answers in

THOMPSON: Sure, this is a two-year

academic administration. My paper

Genesis, was the featured speaker and

degree comprised of 20 classes. It is a

centered on the value of shared

was honored with the school’s first

professional graduate degree beyond

leadership in school planning and

honorary doctorate.

the Bachelor of Arts or equivalent

implementing academic programming,

and is designed to equip both male

something we believe in at the College.

and female students to be effective

Since we have students from around the

biblical counselors. The degree focuses

world, it was gratifying to represent the

on counseling that is strictly biblical

College by speaking to an international

in nature (nouthetic), and students

audience.

receive a background in the theology of

MESSENGER: Other than the new

counseling and evidence that the Word

master’s degree, are there any new plans

is sufficient to bring about change.

on the horizon?

MESSENGER: What types of classes

THOMPSON: We have an opportunity

will students take in this degree?

to offer a bachelor’s degree to inmates

THOMPSON: Students will take classes

in a Supermax prison who feel a call to

in Systematic Theology, Teaching, Old

pastoral ministry. We are working with

Testament Survey, New Testament

our accrediting agency and others to

Survey, Christian Education, Spiritual

make this a reality, and hopefully we can

MESSENGER: That sounds exciting.

Formation, Evangelism, Research &

announce something soon.

What type of degrees does the College

Writing, Missions, World Religions and

MESSENGER: Thank you for taking

currently offer?

Cults, Baptist History, and Hermeneutics.

time for an update. It sounds like a lot of

THOMPSON: We offer two Bachelor of

Counseling classes focus on Biblical

good things are happening at the College.

Arts degrees: one in Christian Studies

Counseling, Crisis Counseling, Marriage

THOMPSON: It’s my pleasure. We’ll

and one in Biblical Counseling. We also

and Family Counseling, Theology of

keep you informed.

offer two Bachelor of Science degrees:

Counseling, and a Counseling Practicum.

one in Organizational Leadership and

MESSENGER: Sounds exciting. Are

the other in Business Administration.

you enjoying your new responsibility as

We will offer our first master’s degree

Dean of the College?

starting in August.

THOMPSON: Yes, it’s exciting to be

MESSENGER: These are fully

a part of what God is doing. We have

accredited degrees?

amazing students who are increasing

THOMPSON: Yes, fully accredited. In

their commitment to the Lord and

fact, our accrediting agency, SACSCOC,

developing great academic promise.




22

Mid-America News

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

NEW! MASTER OF

ARTS IN BIBLICAL COUNSELING DEGREE

NEW! MASTER OF ARTS

IN MISSIOLOGY DEGREE Mid-America is on mission with our new Master

Do you have a desire to help fellow Christians with their

of Arts in Missiology degree. This two-year degree

problems? Are you looking for training that makes a

prepares students to do their

real difference? Are affordability, convenience, and an

part in fulfilling the Great

accelerated pace important to you? Mid-America is the

Commission at an

answer! The new Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling

accelerated pace. Our

degree is a four-semester, 60-hour program. It prepares

school is the perfect

students for effective counseling rooted in Scripture and

place to learn about

useful in the counseling room. Concrete and practical,

Scripture, culture, and

this degree concerns itself with both orthodoxy and

contextualization for

orthopraxy. Our well-rounded curriculum begins in the classroom with first-rate

biblical and theological

a number of reasons.

First, our professors are actual missionaries with decades of experience

education, and ends

in numerous domestic and international locales. Their

with an unparalleled

distinguished publications are popular missiological

hands-on practicum

textbooks in countless colleges and seminaries. Second,

that allows students

Memphis is the perfect place to further your education

to counsel alongside experienced mentors who will help you to sharpen your skills. Becoming competent to

counsel is more convenient than ever

because it is an urban laboratory with a population of more than a million people, half of whom are without Christ. Third, 6 percent of the city’s residents were born in another country and speak at least 45 languages. These factors mean you do not need to wait to get on

with our two-year program. Flexible learning options

the field to begin ministering to people from diverse

allow you to study in the classroom, online, or both.

backgrounds. Our flexible learning options allow you

Study to show yourself approved at Mid-America and

to study in the classroom, online, at home, or on the

become competent to counsel!

mission field. Mid-America’s focus is “Bible, Missions, and Evangelism,” and our graduates serving around the globe are testimonies to our program’s effectiveness.

NEW! BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Mid-America was recently approved by SACSCOC to offer the fully accredited Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree (BSBA). The BSBA is a postsecondary professional degree designed to equip students for effective leadership in churches, organizations, and businesses. This program requires a high school diploma or equivalency certificate, an ACT or SAT score, and the completion of 120 semester hours of academic credit for graduation. Also, students choose a minor concentration of study to complement their major studies. The minor concentrations are: biblical counseling, Christian studies, and organizational leadership. Taught by faculty with experience in major corporations, the BSBA equips students to graduate with a biblical worldview, ready to make an impact in a wide variety of capacities in the arenas of business and not-for-profits, as well as in churches and Christian ministries.


Mid-America Alumni

DR. JERRY WELCH NAMED ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

23

MABTS: During Founders’ Days you

that makes a great impact. I think it’s

talked about your commitment to

important to remember that our giving

financially support Mid-America both

also makes an eternal difference.

personally and through your church

MABTS: Thank you for your time. Any

budget. Why was giving back to the

last words of wisdom?

This year Mid-America Baptist

school important to you?

WELCH: For those looking for a place

Theological Seminary was pleased to

WELCH: In my time at Mid-America, my

to prepare for the ministry, I would tell

announce Dr. Jerry V. Welch as our

professors made a personal investment

them that they could not make a greater

Alumnus of the Year during Founders’

in my life. I would like to think that I am

choice than Mid-America. To attend a

Days on August 20, 2018. Dr. Welch is a

making an investment not only in the

seminary where every professor believes

two-time graduate from MABTS earning

lives of those who teach at Mid-America,

the Bible and that places such an

his MDIV (1984) and PHD (1999) and has

but also in the lives of those who will

emphasis on evangelism, missions, and

since led his church by example for 25

graduate and go on to do God’s work.

preaching is key to a successful ministry.

years in sharing the Gospel, ministering

Giving financially is one of the most

I truly believe that my ministry has been

to those within his sphere of influence,

effective ways to do that.

more effective because of attending Mid-

and financially supporting Mid-America,

MABTS: What encouragement would

America.

both through the church and his

you give to alumni to give back to

We ask each of our alumni to reflect

personal budget.

MABTS and stay connected?

on their time here, the affordable cost

MABTS: First, Dr. Michael Spradlin

WELCH: Giving allows us to personally

and the entire MABTS family are truly

participate in the work that Mid-

our donors, and to consider financially

honored to announce you as our 2018

America is doing to prepare preachers

supporting the next generation of students

Alumnus of the Year. What does this

and missionaries to communicate the

through personal giving and/or requesting

recognition mean to you?

gospel throughout the world. I would

your church include Mid-America in their

WELCH: It’s a great honor to be

tell alumni that if they cannot give much,

budget.

recognized by people I admire and

at least give a little. My wife and I don’t

respect so greatly and by an institution

give a lot compared

that has made such a great contribution

to others, but we

to my life. Mid-America means the world

give. It’s the

to me and to be recognized by such a

cumulative

great school is overwhelming.

effect of

MABTS: What advice would you give

our giving

current students?

WELCH: My advice to students would be to take advantage of their time at Mid-America and value every moment you get to sit under these great men who teach them. Many of them will probably never realize the value of their time spent at Mid-America until after they leave. These are the years that will give them direction throughout the rest of their ministry.

Dr. Jerry V. Welch receives

the Alumnus of the Year award, presented by Dr. Michael Spradlin, during Founders’ Days.

made possible through the generosity of


NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID MEMPHIS, TN PERMIT NO. 831

P.O. Box 2350 • Cordova, Tennessee 38088-2350 901-751-8453 • info@mabts.edu • mabts.edu

S P R I N G P R E V I E W DAY | M A R C H 2 6 , 2 0 1 9 Know someone looking for a college or seminary that offers exceptional educational value? Or maybe

M O R E I N F O O R TO R E G I S T E R : U N D E RG R A D U AT E collegeatmidamerica.com/previewday

that someone is you! Check out

G R A D U AT E

Mid-America’s Spring Preview Day.

mabts.edu/previewday


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