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
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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