Mid-America Messenger-Winter 2019

MID-AMERICA

WINTER 2019

WITH MID-AMERICA, “WE KNOW WE ARE GETTING MISSIONARIES TRAINED IN E VA N G E L I S M A N D DISCIPLE-MAKING.” IMB PRESIDENT PA U L C H I T W O O D

P R E S I D E N T ’ S Page

MID-AMERICA MULTIPLYING MINISTRY WITH MORE OPTIONS MORE STUDENTS MORE MISSIONS

BY DR. MICHAEL SPRADLIN “To all the world for Jesus’ sake ...”

very powerful words. What were

more: more ways to effectively train

simple lines in our Alma Mater are

greater numbers of students to become

now de facto marching orders. Mid-

more dedicated to soulwinning in

America recently celebrated its rich

more places around the globe. We want

history during Founders’ Days, and

to change the world for Jesus’ sake.

it’s this very history that spurs us

Isn’t that the kind of more you want

forward into action. Over the past

to be a part of? The more that counts

year, the leadership at Mid-America

for eternity? I hope the articles on the

has sought new ways to go to all the

following pages will stir your heart

world—not for our name or our glory,

again for the lostness of humanity and

but for the precious name of Jesus

your role in reaching every tribe and

As friends and family of Mid-America,

and the powerful Good News He has

tongue for Christ. Join with us, friends,

you are likely familiar with these

entrusted to our care. We are seeking

as we go “to all the world.”

WATCH

Watch a video of Dr. Spradlin explaining more about this special missions issue of the Messenger.

Go to mabts.edu/videos.

contents VOLUME 47, NUMBER 3 | WINTER 2019 Published by the Mid-America family of educational institutions

PRESIDENT Michael Spradlin, PhD EDITOR Nathan Cole MANAGING EDITOR Bryan Murray DESIGN Eternity Communications

MISSIONARY MAKER The theme of this winter issue of the Mid-America Messenger is missions, and as you can tell from IMB President Paul Chitwood, Mid-America is known for training missionary-minded students, turning them into evangelistic disciple-makers who preach, teach, and reach the world for Christ.

MID-AMERICA GLOBAL Earlier this year we launched Mid-America Global, our initiatives for the future distilled into five focus areas. Since then, God has moved through these new opportunities in extraordinary ways. Discover how the vision is becoming reality.

GOING THE DISTANCE Read the inspiring stories of five Mid-America College students who spent thieir summer circling the globe to take the Gospel to the lost on five different continents—“to all the world for Jesus’ sake.”

MOBILIZING THE CHURCH Fresh from 17 years of serving as a senior pastor, our new Seminary Dean, Dr. Lee Brand Jr., shares his practical insights on how to mobilize the 21st Century church to be on mission doing God’s work, not just good work.

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

WITH MID-AMERICA

4 10 14

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

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E

arlier this year, we launched Mid-America Global, our initiatives for the future distilled into five focus

areas. Since then, God has moved through these new opportunities in extraordinary ways. Read on to see how the vision is becoming reality. Please continue to pray with us for these exciting new equipping ministries.

MID-AMERICA GLOBAL  NEW INITIATIVES IN FIVE FOCUS AREAS DESIGNED TO BRING FRESH VISION TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Mid-America Global

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

5

 FOCUS: EXCELLENCE IN ONLINE LEARNING

PASTOR’S WIFE AND MOTHER GOES BACK TO SCHOOL TO EARN MASTER’S IN BIBLICAL COUNSELING

BY DR. MATTHEW AKERS

make themselves available

Mid-America is engaging

to address my needs. They’re

students in brand new ways

very helpful and responsive.

by making every associate’s,

At first, I was overwhelmed

bachelor’s and master’s degree

with the idea of going back to

available online. Many people

school and juggling all of my

consider their educational

daily responsibilities at the

goals unattainable and

same time. My professors’

unrealistic due to distance,

kind encouragement helped

work schedules, or family

me to get my bearings.

commitments. They are often

Being able to access course

pleasantly surprised to realize

material whenever I want is

they’re within reach through

a blessing.”

and is the wife of a full-time pastor who, ironically, earned his

BRITTNEY WANTS TO ENCOURAGE PEOPLE LIKE HER TO CONSIDER MIDAMERICA’S ONLINE PROGRAM. “I hope by sharing my

MDIV 11 years ago. That’s how she learned of Mid-America and

story, I can encourage others to take a step of faith and return

developed a desire to attend. The busyness of life, however,

to school. If God calls you to this important task, He’ll see you

prevented her from doing so—until now. Through the new

through to the end. I’d love to see you in class soon. There’s no

online program, Brittney enrolled this year and is pursuing a

better place to study than Mid-America’s online program!”

Mid-America’s flexible online programs.

Brittney Clark is one such person. She has four children

master’s degree in biblical counseling.

“I NEVER THOUGHT I’D PURSUE MY MASTER’S DEGREE. What a whirlwind it’s been. I couldn’t imagine going to school anywhere other than MidAmerica,” reported Brittney with a smile.

“I’ve heard horror stories from friends who studied in online programs at other schools, but my experiences have been nothing but positive.”

When asked to explain what makes Mid-America different, Brittney reflected on the approachability of the professors.

“Even though I’m not on campus, the professors are committed to seeing me succeed as a student. Every time I have questions or need clarification, they

6

Mid-America Global

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

 FOCUS: INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

MID-AMERICA TRAINS FACULTY OF EUROPE’S ONLY ACCREDITED CONSERVATIVE EVANGELICAL UNIVERSITY

BY DR. PAUL NEGRUT

Baptist Church of Oradea)

Emanuel University is one

came at the darkest hour

of God’s great miracles

of persecution. A dramatic

of our time because

decrease in membership and

it’s the only accredited

pastoral leadership gave the

conservative evangelical

impression that Communism

university in all of Europe.

had defeated Christianity. We

Despite Europe’s great

met away from the eyes of the

spiritual heritage, it has

Communist secret police in

failed to keep the light

the mountains, the woods, or

of the Gospel shining in

in homes during the night.

the places that shape the

During that dark hour, we

hearts and minds of future leaders—universities.

prayed, fasted, and trusted God. The Holy Spirit soon planted

THE BIRTH OF THE VISION, 1974–1985

the vision for a Christian university in Romania to equip a

The revival that started under the ministry of Pastor Liviu Olah in 1974 at Emanuel Baptist Church of Oradea (then Second

new generation of men and women for evangelism, church planting, and discipleship.

With the demise of Communism in 1989, the underground school emerged and developed into a fully accredited conservative evangelical university to train the next generation of leaders for Romania, Europe (East and West), the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

With more than 2,700 graduates in 40 countries, Emanuel University is one of Europe’s most effective institutions for equipping and sending missionaries.

INTO THE FUTURE—PARTNERSHIP WITH MIDAMERICA BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY One of the critical aspects is faculty development for accreditation. In Romania, most universities will not accept conservative evangelical views on any field of study. Therefore, we’re looking to Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary to train our faculty so they will all have earned doctorates.

The solutions to the world’s crises are not in the world’s capital cities but in God alone. We do not need more worldly leaders, but more godly ones—people who know, worship, and serve our Father through His Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Dr. Michael Spradlin with Dr. Adrian Giorgiov, Dean of the School of Theology at Emanuel University of Oradea and Co-pastor of the First Hungarian Baptist Church in Oradea

Paul Negrut

Mid-America Global

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

7

 FOCUS: ARKANSAS PRISON INITIATIVE (API)

THE COLLEGE AT MID-AMERICA BEGINS DEGREE PROGRAM IN MAXIMUM-SECURITY PRISON

BY DR. MARK THOMPSON

Arkansas Prison Initiative

The College at Mid-America began

students are eager to learn, and

the Arkansas Prison Initiative (API) in

they take their studies seriously.

August this year to offer inmates at the

Many of their classroom

Varner Unit the opportunity to earn a

experiences were more than 25

Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies.

years ago so they must readjust

The Varner Unit is a maximum

to studying, reading, and writing

security prison with just over 1,700

papers. Students have already

inmates; 25 have enrolled in the API

formed bonds of service and

program. The API program is open to

support for each other. Several of

any inmate who qualifies academically

the students meet each morning

regardless of his religious conviction.

in the barracks at 6:00 a.m. to pray

Within the first cohort there is one

for me and The College at Mid-

Muslim student, one Hindu student,

America. Early in the semester, all

several Catholic students, and others representing various

the students circled me to pray for me and my leadership as

Protestant denominations.

they began the term together.

MOST OF THE STUDENTS WILL NEVER SEE THE OUTSIDE OF THE PRISON AGAIN, as 13 are serving life

Gospel in the classroom. Please pray that the Lord will do a

sentences or life sentences without the possibility of parole.

saving work in the lives of the students who need Christ, and

Mid-America has a unique opportunity to train these men to

that He will do a mighty work in preparing these men to serve

assist the chaplains by leading prayer walks through barracks

Him throughout the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

and cell blocks, Bible studies, and ministering to those on suicide watch. Once students earn their degree, they are deployed as Field Ministers throughout the various Arkansas Department of Correction facilities.

Dr. Mark Thompson, Director of the Arkansas Prison Initiative, conducts a Mid-America course at the Varner Supermax unit in southern Arkansas.

I have already had several opportunities to present the

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Mid-America Global

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

 FOCUS: MISSION NORTHEAST

MID-AMERICA EXPANDS THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION IN NORTHEAST WITH INNOVATIVE ONLINE PROGRAM

BY DR. MIKE HAGGARD

groups of online students are

In some regions of the United

placed under the guidance of

States, people die having

a mentor.

never heard the Gospel of

has had a desire to change

MOVE MENTORS ARE RECRUITED FROM AMONG LOCAL PASTORS AND CHURCH STAFF LEADERS serving

this by offering theological

in the Northeast. During the

education and training to

school year, they meet with

Christian leaders in the area.

our students regularly for

IN ORDER TO TRAIN MORE LEADERS IN THE NORTHEAST, we recently

prayer and encouragement, which helps integrate academic training with practical

transitioned from an on-campus model in which classes

ministry and connects academic learning with local culture

were solely located in Schenectady, New York, to a new online

and church life.

Jesus Christ. The Northeast is one such region. For more than 30 years, Mid-America

initiative called Mid-America Global Northeast which allows us to expand our influence for Christ.

The great challenge of online education is creating

Mentors contribute to the molding and shaping of students for future labor in God’s Kingdom. As of this writing, 23 mentors are ensuring 45 students in the Northeast become

interpersonal connections. To address this, Mid-America

better leaders for Christ. When there was only one campus

developed Mentored Online Virtual Education or MOVE where

in Schenectady, only those able to travel could experience a Mid-America education. Now, students from as far away as Rochester, New York; Lee, Massachusetts; Baltimore, Maryland; New Jersey; and Long Island, New York, are being equipped for a lifetime of ministry.

Mid-America students have seen 4,863 people in the Northeast come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ since we began 30 years ago. As our student enrollment and geographical footprint increase throughout the Northeast, we are excited to see this number grow. This area of the country is “white unto harvest.” Please pray leaders will learn of MidAmerica Global Northeast and join with us.

WATCH

Watch a video of Dr. Mike Haggard explaining more about Mid-America Global Northeast.

Go to mabts.edu/videos.

Mid-America Global

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

9

 FOCUS: MOVE GROUPS

MOVE PROGRAM BEGUN IN A NEW YORK CHURCH THAT’S BEEN SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACTED BY MID-AMERICA

BY ROBBIE LANKFORD I have been surrounded by the influence of Mid-America since my call to

MENTORED ONLINE VIRTUAL EDUCATION (MOVE) program that Mid-America started this fall

ministry 30 years ago at the age

and for our church to be invited

of 17. My high school sweetheart

to be a part. We are starting

and wife of 25 years grew up

with four men who are

in the home of a Mid-America

very excited and thankful

trained dad who was my first

to begin their ministry

mentor in ministry. When we

training. Three of these

moved to North Carolina for seminary, the pastor who gave me much of my DNA for ministry was a graduate of Mid-America. The pastor who the Lord used in my call to start a church in New York was a Mid-America graduate. When

men were already members of our church, and the other, Peter Johnson with his wife Kaili, recently moved from Ohio to New York to participate in this opportunity. All these men were praying God would provide them

Bellevue Baptist Church and others partnered with us early

a chance to be trained for ministry but did not know how it

on in our church plant, many of those connections came as a

would happen. We are very excited and genuinely thankful to

result of Mid-America. In short, the individuals who have had

Mid-America for partnering with us to continue expanding

the most significant impact on my life and ministry were all trained by Mid-America.

THE LORD LED MY WIFE AND ME TO QUEENSBURY IN UPSTATE NEW YORK in February of 2000 with a vision for a church that would make a visible and lasting impact on our town and region. The Lord has raised up a church of 500 people, and we have also been directly involved in starting three other churches in our area. The Lord has given us a vision to train many more pastors and church planters who will go out across our region.

What a blessing it was to hear about the

Robbie Lankford, MOVE Group Mentor and Pastor of New Hope Community Church, Queensbury, New York, and wife Shannon

God’s great work across the Northeast.

MID-AMERICA COLLEGE STUDENTS GO THE DISTANCE FOR MISSIONS

EUROPE: WESLEY HOLMES, BACHELOR OF ARTS, CHRISTIAN STUDIES

NORTH AMERICA: NANCY SUNDLING,

This summer, I worked as an intern with the International

The Lord blessed me to minister to children and young parents

the first team focus its time assisting students in practicing

in Memphis’ 38127 ZIP code. One day my husband and I invited

English. Last summer, the team was allowed only one day with

neighborhood children to dinner explaining to them we’d be

the school, and no one could openly mention the Gospel. Due

telling them what God has done for them and the importance

to the previous year’s impact, the school gave us a whole week.

of getting to know God for themselves through reading His

By the end of that week, things were going so well that the

Word. Little did we know the Lord was drawing a young boy

school’s teachers were recruiting people to our classes. Even

unto Himself. “Mrs. Nancy and Mr. Jeffrey,” he began, “I believe

the principal treated the entire team to lunch. Building such

in Jesus that He gave His life for me. I want Jesus to live in my

a great relationship in a country like Germany was beyond

heart, and I want to do what He says.” Please pray for these

incredible. My time in Germany was fruitful and inspiring.

ASSOCIATE DEGREE, CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Missions Board (IMB) team leaders in Germany. I helped

children.

SOUTH AMERICA: ASHTON WILLIAMS, BACHELOR OF ARTS, BIBLICAL COUNSELING

I traveled to Sao Paulo, Brazil, this summer with a team of 40 members and eight translators from my home church.

This trip provided many opportunities to share the Gospel with hundreds of people, including one day at a women’s prison. The prison included women from all over the world who were caught selling, using, or smuggling drugs. As we walked in, I could feel the weight of the darkness and the hopelessness of these women. After presenting the Gospel, we asked the women to meet with us one-on-one if they had questions, wanted to pray, or just wanted to get to know us. I noticed two women in the back alone and sobbing.

I immediately made my way through the crowd to these women. As we began to talk, I realized they were ashamed of their sins and had no hope for their future. I was heartbroken and knew the life-changing news they needed to hear. After sharing the Gospel and praying with these women, joy seemed to replace their tears. I think of these women often and pray their lives are transformed.

WATCH

Watch a video of Dr. Brad Roderick explaining more about students involved in practical missions.

Go to mabts.edu/videos.

TO ALL THE W

Practical Missions

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

11

AFRICA: ELIJAH CODY, BACHELOR OF ARTS,

ASIA: ANDREW ENZOR, BACHELOR OF ARTS,

On the first day of our Ugandan missions trip, we went door-

This summer, I spent two months with a team of college

to-door through villages, slums, schools, and churches sharing

students working alongside an English school in Southeast

the Gospel, asking, “Can I tell you a story?” Tyndall was very

Asia. Despite only three hours a day in the classroom, we had

interested, so I asked if I could share my story with her. I

access to more than 20 teachers and hundreds of students. The

shared that throughout my life, I tried to fill the void in my soul

school was secular, but the majority of students and staff were

with earthly things: women, people, objects, and even myself.

Muslim. Through friendly relationships, I shared the Gospel

Ultimately, only God could fill the void and bring joy to my life.

day after day. One man met us at a coffee shop and introduced

Tyndall admitted often trying to fill her emptiness with other

himself by saying, “Hello, my name is Mr. R, and I’m an atheist.”

things, too. I shared with her the Gospel, a good local church,

The next time we were together, Mr. R brought atheist friends

and next steps if she were to come to Christ. I prayed with

and told us to share what we believe. Though he continued to

Tyndall, and a local Ugandan got her information for follow-

reject the Gospel, he brought his Muslim friends who heard the

up. I pray she will receive Christ, and that I will see her again

Good News of Jesus Christ because of him.

CHRISTIAN STUDIES

CHRISTIAN STUDIES

in Heaven.

WORLD FOR JESUS’ SAKE

WITH MID-AMERICA, “WE KNOW WE ARE GETTING MISSIONARIES TRAINED IN EVANGELISM AND DISCIPLE-MAKING,” SAYS IMB PRESIDENT

BY PAUL CHITWOOD PRESIDENT, INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS BOARD, SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION The vision of the IMB, based on Revelation 7:9, is a “multitude from every language, people, tribe and nation knowing and worshipping our Lord Jesus Christ.” The watchwords for Mid-America are Bible, missions, and evangelism; therefore, it is only natural we would be partners together in helping churches fulfill the missionary task given by God to His people.

SINCE MID-AMERICA’S FOUNDING IN 1972, the IMB has been sending Mid-America graduates to fulfill many roles including church planters, theological educators, human needs ministers, and even affinity group strategy leaders. We have sent them to every inhabited continent. Because Mid-America students are required to share the Gospel each week while enrolled in Seminary, we know we are getting missionaries trained in evangelism and disciple-making.

Sending long-term missionaries is not the only way we partner with Mid-America. We also partner through student programs like the 2+2 program, Hands-on, and Nehemiah Teams where current students get a taste of missions while making an eternal impact in the lives of those to whom and with whom they minister on the field.

THE IMB THANKS GOD FOR THIS PARTNERSHIP and looks forward to seeing the ways Mid-America graduates and students will continue to be used to fulfill the Revelation 7:9 vision.

Rick Martinez, Mid-America alumnus (DMIN, 2013), lives in Mexico

and serves with the IMB as the city leader for the Gateway Mexico City Team. He is one example of numerous Mid-America graduates who are serving as Southern Baptist missionaries through the IMB.

WITNESS ONE:SEVEN & GO! PROGRAM REPORT FALL 2019

TENNESSEE MAGNE* TOTAL

PRACTICAL MISSIONS 1,393 277 1,670

witness one:seven

PERSONS WITNESSED TO 742 204 946 PROFESSIONS OF FAITH

70

10 80

SERMONS PREACHED 203 60 263

J o h n 1:7

*Mid-America Global Northeast Witness One:Seven and GO! Program reported through October 30, 2019

PROFESSIONS OF FAITH SINCE 1972 = 165,737

Mid-America Team

MID-AMERICA WELCOMES NEW VICE PRESIDENT AND DEAN OF SEMINARY

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

13

member of the distinguished Phi Beta

humility for the opportunity to serve

Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

at the Seminary. He appreciates the

DR. BRAND’S FIRST LOVE IS HIS LORD JESUS CHRIST. He has

time he spent learning at the feet of

a passion for preaching the Gospel and

to stand beside them as Mid-America

pouring into student lives. He views

charges forward in the Christian fight.

his opportunity to teach as an exercise

He requests your prayers and continued

in stewardship. Having received so

support for him and the Seminary as we

God-fearing faculty. He is honored now

Dr. Lee Brand Jr. grew up in Nettleton,

much from

honor Christ

Mississippi. He received the call to

many godly

for what

preach and preached his first sermon

mentors, it is

He’s done

at Good Hope Missionary Baptist

his mission to

and partner

Church in Shannon, Mississippi, just

rightly handle

with Him

before graduating high school in 1997.

God’s Word

for today, for

After earning a BS from Mississippi

and accurately

tomorrow,

State University, Dr. Brand went on to

represent

and forever—

earn an MDIV at Mid-America Baptist

Christ and

“to all the

Theological Seminary. He served as

those who

world for

Senior Pastor of Beth-el Missionary

invested in

Jesus’ sake.”

Baptist Church in Starkville from

him.

2002–2019, overseeing much growth

After his love for Christ, Dr. Brand

and ministry development that included

loves his wife and children. He was

outreach on the campus of Mississippi

blessed to marry his beautiful wife

State and missions partnerships in the

Tiffany in July 2003, and they are

Philippines and Uganda.

parents to five wonderful children: Tre’,

IN DECEMBER 2013, DR. BRAND EARNED A PHD DEGREE FROM MID-AMERICA with a

Megan, Avery, Micah, and Matthew. He describes Tiffany as the greatest gift given to him aside from his salvation.

concentration in Practical Theology and

She is a godly influence, constant

minors in Theology and New Testament.

companion, and his best friend on the

His teaching experience has included

journey of ministry. His children bring

time as an adjunct professor at the East

him great joy, and he appreciates the

Mississippi Community College and as

opportunity to lead the Brand bunch. Dr.

an assistant instructor at the Starkville

Brand enjoys wrestling and watching

Extension of New Orleans Baptist

cartoons with them, cheering

Theological Seminary.

for them in their various

Dr. Brand has worked in various

endeavors, and pouring

positions with the Northeast Mississippi

God’s truth into their lives.

Baptist Congress and the Whitefield

DR. BRAND COMES TO MIDAMERICA WITH LOVE FOR CHRIST AND GOD’S WORD,

District Association. He has also sought to serve his community. In 2010 he was appointed to the Starkville School District Board of Trustees and served as a chaplain for the Starkville Police Department. Dr. Brand also serves his community as a

and a great sense of

Church Missions

THE CHURCH ON MISSION IN THE 21ST CENTURY

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

15

our tendencies toward pragmatism and opens our eyes to the fresh and unique ways God desires to use us in our particular context. The Lord works through prayer to show us the mission field before us. We do not have to travel

‘BIBLE, MISSIONS, AND EVANGELISM’

BY DR. LEE BRAND JR.

around the globe to do biblical missions.

Can anyone deny that we live in an ever-

We see the opportunities blossom before

changing world? Ideas once embedded

our churches when we lead the people

as truth are being overthrown daily.

through intentional seasons of prayer for

People deny the authority of God, the

their communities.

validity of the Bible, and the necessity

their need for truth and Jesus Christ

FOR THE LOCAL CHURCH TO MOBILIZE FOR MISSIONS, PEOPLE MUST BE EQUIPPED, AND PLANS MUST BE MADE. The

endeavors. Missions work requires

will not. There is an unceasing need for

church rallies around the Word of God to

utter dependence on the Holy Spirit. No

God’s people to spread the Gospel and

understand and apply biblical principles

matter how much a person studies or

be intentionally missional. Individually

about missions to the people in their

rehearses, unique situations arise that

and collectively, spreading the Gospel

immediate context. It is a shocking

require believers to trust Jesus to use

should be a high priority. One way

thought that people within walking

them.

to incorporate the church body in

distance of the average church will die

These ideas are the heartbeat of

the spread of the Gospel is through

without any knowledge of Christ. This

Mid-America, and we exist for the glory

missions. But how is that done? What are

happens as congregations either refuse

of God and the equipping of His people.

biblical ways to accomplish it?

to do local missions, or direct their time

“Bible, missions, and evangelism” is

THE FIRST STEP IN ORGANIZING ANY CHURCH FOR MISSIONS IS PRAYER. Nothing of

and energies to projects across the globe.

our calling card, because through each

Global missions are vitally important,

of these, God is glorified. People who

but local congregations cannot afford

join the Mid-America family enter an

eternal significance is done without

to betray the Acts 1:8 model. There is no

environment that gives them a depth of

prayer. God shares the burdens of His

forced choice between doing missions

knowledge about God while fostering a

heart with His people through prayer,

work outside the front door or around

deep devotion to God. Mid-America gave

and prayer functions as a safeguard,

the globe. No church can afford to do one

me the tools to help a local congregation

positioning us to do God’s work, not just

at the expense of the other. Therefore,

develop a missional heart. By equipping

good work. Meaningful prayer exposes

leaders must admonish people to carve

God’s people for missions, we continue

out dates in the calendar, set aside

to obey God’s Word and uphold our war

dollars in their budgets, and employ

cry, “To all the world for Jesus’ sake.”

of the church. All this points to a serious reality: people and ideas change, but

disciples for the work of local missions.

PRAYER FUNCTIONS AS A SAFEGUARD, POSITIONING US TO DO

GOD’S WORK, NOT JUST GOOD WORK.

HAVING PRAYED AND PLANNED, NOW IT’S TIME FOR ACTION—TIME TO LEAVE PERSONAL COMFORT AND DO THE WORK. Believers must go with the conviction that the God of Heaven is sending them on assignment and the confidence that the Lord is present and active in their missional

IS OUR CALLING CARD, BECAUSE THROUGH EACH OF THESE, GOD IS GLORIFIED.

WATCH

Watch a video of Dr. Brand explaining more about the role of the church in missions.

Go to mabts.edu/videos.

16

Mid-America Team

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

MID-AMERICA WELCOMES NEW COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING DIRECTOR TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHEN YOU CAME TO KNOW THE LORD. Growing up, I viewed God as an impersonal deity with no real interest in

hopeless despite being surrounded

across sales, public affairs, policy, and

by people.

government relations functions.

This was when God encountered me on campus through a friend who had received Christ a week prior. As she spoke about her new relationship with Jesus, I was captivated and wanted it but did not know how to get it. Three weeks later, after long nights on the phone discussing faith in Jesus, I surrendered my life to Him.

WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF YOUR ROLE? Often in marketing, we say, “You’re looking for the people who are looking for you.” I think this is true for MidAmerica because it is such a unique institution. We’re going to remain true to our values of Bible, missions, and

me. As a result, I went about life taking

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY.

evangelism and prepare those for

no interest in Him.

My wife, Ayanna, is my absolute best

ministry whose hearts beat with ours.

By age 19, my life was unraveling.

friend in the world. We’ve been married

My role is to promote Mid-America so

My foundation of self-reliance and

19 years and have four awesome kids:

that those who are seeking it find it.

self-indulgence had landed me on the

Jayda, age 15, Ayana, 13, and identical

University of Oregon Dean’s List—not

twin boys Jared and Shaun, 12.

the one for good students; I was facing expulsion. I felt incredibly isolated and

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT MID-AMERICA?

WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND, AND HOW WILL IT BENEFIT MID-AMERICA?

As our culture moves further from God’s

I graduated from Oregon with a degree

I am excited about the influence our

in journalism and was heavily involved

alumni, current, and future students will

in Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for

have in people’s lives. The adage says, “If

Word, Bible-believing institutions like Mid-America become more necessary.

Christ) during my undergraduate years.

your best days are behind you, you’re in

I freelanced for the school newspaper

trouble.” I think the best days are yet to

and organized evangelism events on

come as we trust in God, not ourselves,

campus.

to advance the Gospel.

After graduating, I started working with Cru and focused on discipling African-American college students in North Carolina. In 2004, I moved to Cru’s headquarters to focus on communications, creating discipleship resources and fund development. In 2006 God called me to corporate America, where I spent 13 years working for Pfizer

WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY ON LIFE? I dated my wife for six years before we married. For two years, we wrote letters back and forth because she was in Oregon, and I was in Washington. That correspondence only made me want to see her more, and I couldn’t wait until we were married so we could be together permanently. My life’s philosophy is to try and walk daily with Jesus in such a way that I long to be with him forever, as

Bryan Murray recently

joined the Mid-America staff as Senior Director, Communications and Marketing.

I longed to be with my wife. I want the best thing about Heaven to be Him, even though I have loved ones I am eager to see again also.

Mid-America News

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

FOUNDERS’ DAYS 2019 LOOKS BACK AT A BLESSED HERITAGE, FORWARD TO A BRIGHT FUTURE Founders’ Days 2019, August 20–22, was particularly special because MidAmerica welcomed home twotime graduate Dr. Lee Brand Jr.

17

Dr. Lee Brand Jr. (center) was installed as Vice President and Dean of Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary during Founders’ Days. Dr. Brad Thompson (left), and Dr. Michael Spradlin presided.

to be installed as Vice President and Dean of the Seminary (see

The Alumni and

story about Dr. Brand on page 13).

Friends Reception kicked off the celebration.

We gathered to remember that Mid-America was founded by faith in God and must be sustained by faith in Him. Founders’ Days also

An Ice Cream Social was hosted for students at the conclusion of the evening.

reminds us why Mid-America exists, as summed up in Paul’s words, “That in all things He might have the preeminence” Colossians 1:18.

The annual signing of the Articles of Belief

WATCH

Watch a video of Founders’ Days 2019, including the recognition of Philip Ridley and message by Dr. Brand.

Go to mabts.edu/videos.

PHILIP E. RIDLEY NAMED ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR During Founders’ Days 2019, Mid-America recognized Philip

Meade, Maryland; aboard the USS San Diego LPD 22 and USS Cleveland LPD 7; and at Marine Corps Base in Kaneohe, Hawaii.

Chaplain Ridley and his wife Ginger have been married for

E. Ridley as Alumnus of the Year. Philip graduated from Mid-

37 years. They have two daughters, Candace Robinson (Otis)

America in 2005 with a Master of Christian Education degree.

and Jocelyn Patton (Devin); three grandsons, Caleb, Joshua,

After graduating, he was ordained and went on to active duty

and Darien; and one granddaughter, Jaelyn.

service as a Navy Chaplain. His initial assignment was at First

Chaplain

Battalion First Marine Regiment, Camp Pendleton, California,

Ridley truly

in 2005.

has taken the

Chaplain Ridley has 29 years of faithful service, which

Gospel “to

includes deployments to combat zones like Fallujah, Iraq,

all the

where he was assigned to Abu Ghraib prison. He has also

world

served at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda,

for Jesus’

Maryland; the Navy Information Operations Command, Fort

sake.”

ACBC CONFERENCE HOSTED BY MID-AMERICA

Did you know that suicide is now the 10th leading cause

of death in the United States? This statistic is one reason that Mid-America was honored to host the 2019 ACBC Annual Conference “The Valley of the Shadow: Suicide, Self-Harm, & Scripture” on October 7–9, 2019. The conference equipped Christians to share the Word of God with those who feel as if all is lost.

Hosting this nationwide conference is further evidence that Mid-America has become the nation’s premier equipping institution for biblical counseling. Always standing for the sufficiency of Scripture, Mid-America bolstered its program in 2015 when the Institute for Nouthetic Studies (INS), founded by Dr. Jay Adams, father of the modern biblical counseling movement and author of the landmark book Competent to Counsel, merged with Mid-America. The result is one of the world’s most comprehensive and accessible educational programs for training men and women to counsel biblically. Mid-America offers numerous programs in biblical counseling, from INS Certificate to PhD.

MID-AMERICA HOLY LAND EXPERIENCE

Many people dream of going to

the Holy Land. This past June, the Mid-America Holy Land Experience allowed that dream to come true for more than 100 people. Each participant walked where Jesus walked and now enjoy a richer understanding of their faith and the Bible. Mid-America President, Dr. Michael Spradlin provided commentary, and music by Dr. James Whitmire provided a backdrop of worship. In June 2021 we will be returning to the Holy Land. If you’d like updates on this trip, please text HLE2021 to (678) 506-7543.

ď ‹WATCH

Watch a video with Dr. Mike Spradlin describing the MidAmerica Holy Land Experience and how you can learn more about the 2021 trip.

Go to mabts.edu/videos.

LEAVING A LEGACY WITH GROWING ENROLLMENT AND NEW GOSPEL OPPORTUNITIES, THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO INVEST IN MID-AMERICA

One generation gives generously—through on-going giving and legacy giving—so that the next generation can be equipped to impact eternity.

and His wondrous works He

BY RAY HELTON

has done.” This Psalm applies to us

An old friend once advised me to

as well.

biblical studies through our Arkansas

diversify and carefully shape the

Prison Initiative, with another 25

me to take into consideration all my

FOR MID-AMERICA, EQUIPPING THE NEXT GENERATION of preachers, church

future goals. As the conversation

leaders, and missionaries takes great

initiative now has more than 40 students

unfolded, I realized that all my goals

planning because our ability to do so

enrolled. The remarkable increase in

were intertwined and affected by the

is based on our current and projected

students has a corresponding increase

others. In like manner, you and I should

giving, as well as projected and actual

in our operational cost. Initiatives such

recognize that, as believers, the goals for

class size. This year, we have one of Mid-

as the MOVE program are only possible

our lives should be intertwined with the

America’s largest groups of incoming,

because of your regular financial and

plans of God.

degree-seeking students. More than 50

prayer support.

percent are enrolled in the Seminary,

business that I owned, cautioning

expected to enroll soon. Our Mentored Online Virtual Education (MOVE)

78 to tell the subsequent generations of

and there are an additional 25 students

EACH YEAR, MID-AMERICA’S FINANCIAL NEEDS are met by the

the “praises of the Lord, and His strength

seeking undergraduate degrees in

generous monthly and planned giving

God instructed the Israelites in Psalm

Mission Mid-America

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

21

FROM ONE

GENERATION

TO ANOTHER

legacy gifts (planned giving) will shape Mid-America’s

IMPACTING ETERNITY The next generation receives training and takes the Gospel to all the world through preaching, teaching, and reaching ministries, impacting lives for eternity.

future, we would ask you to consider Mid-America as you plan for your own financial future.

As always, direct gifts can easily be made using checks, credit cards, or direct transfer from your bank. Credit card and bank transfers can easily be set up to allow automatic recurring gifts.

IN WHATEVER WAY YOU CHOOSE TO GIVE, YOU WILL BE IMPACTING GENERATIONS TO COME, fulfilling the instruction in Psalm 78 to pass God’s Word to the next generation so that they might put their confidence in God. of hundreds of special donors

preachers, missionaries, and church/

like you. Estate gifts have particularly

community leaders even though they are

helped us meet the financial needs

no longer with us.

associated with increased enrollment. in their wills and estate planning are

TODAY, MORE THAN EVER, WE DEPEND ON THESE LEGACY GIFTS to sustain Mid-America as God

investing in future generations of

sends more students to us. Because

Those who have included Mid-America

Discover how you can invest in the next generation and help impact eternity for Jesus’ sake.

Plan your end-of-year or legacy giving today at:

MABTS.EDU/SUPPORT

22

Mid-America News

MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

SUBSCRIBE FREE TO THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS E-NEWSLETTER

Want to network with the Mid-America community and keep up with all the school’s news and events? There’s no better way than to subscribe to the Alumni & Friends e-newsletter.

Each month delivered right to your inbox, you’ll receive a fresh edition, packed with inspiring stories about current students, faculty, and alumni.

You’ll also get the latest on upcoming events and other announcements

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS FELLOWSHIP

about the exciting happenings at MidAmerica. To subscribe, simply go to

The International Missions fellowship meets every two months

mabts.edu/email-sign-up.

to focus on a different people group or culture from around the world. On September 17, Brazilfest allowed students and

LET US KNOW WHAT’S NEW IN YOUR LIFE AND MINISTRY. Have you moved to a new position of ministry?

their families to celebrate Brazilian culture, eat Brazilian food,

Earned a new degree? Written a book or other published

and pray for the peoples of Brazil. The International Missions

work? Let us know the latest news in your life, and we’ll share

fellowship met again in November to hear from missionaries

selected stories in the Alumni & Friends e-newsletter. Email

to sub-Saharan Africa.

your news and updates to communications@mabts.edu.

WINTER & SPRING

HANDEL’S MESSIAH

CAMPUS REVIVAL

SPRING GRADUATION

December 3, 7:00 p.m.

February 11–13, 2020

May 15, 2020

FALL GRADUATION

SPRING BREAK

December 6

March 9–20, 2020

ORIENTATION AND REGISTRATION FOR INCOMING SPRING STUDENTS

SPRING PREVIEW DAY

SUMMER ORIENTATION AND REGISTRATION FOR INCOMING FALL STUDENTS

January 10, 2020

March 26, 2020

SPRING SEMESTER CLASSES BEGIN

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS DUE FOR FALL SEMESTER

January 21, 2020

April 1, 2020

June 3, 2020

LAST DAY TO SUBMIT APPLICATION FOR FALL SEMESTER July 1, 2020

NEW!

B A C K I N P R I N T F R O M D R . J AY A D A M S

Essential tool F O R E V E R Y pastor A N D Christian counselor  GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT!...

For pastors, counselors, or yourself!

As Dr. Jay Adams, the father of modern biblical counseling and founder of Mid-America’s Institute for Nouthetic Studies (INS), was building his system of bring it back into print. counseling from the truths he found in the Scriptures, he We are pleased to announce concluded he needed to devote himself to an intensive that after careful editing and updating, The examination of the text. “I wanted to be confronted with every Christian Counselor’s New Testament and Proverbs (CCNT/P) book, every passage, and every word of the New Testament in is in print once again and may be purchased online at a vital, life-changing way.” Already one of the foremost Greek INSBookstore.com or by contacting the Seminary bookstore scholars of his day at age 30, he decided to at (901) 751-3003. It comes in a handsome, produce his own translation of the Greek text gold-tone gift box and makes an ideal and compile extensive notes to aid biblical Christmas gift! counselors in the counseling room. The result The CCNT/P is the first of an extensive of his work was first published in 1977 as project to make all of Dr. Adams’ books The Christian Counselor’s New Testament. available again in print. New generations Since then, it has undergone several updates, of biblical counselors will now be able to including the addition of the Book of Proverbs. profit from the groundbreaking ministry of Be on the lookout for more Sadly, it has been out of print for more than 15 Jay Adams. One hundred years from now, titles from Dr. Jay Adams being years, and with used copies selling online for we believe our descendants will be reading rereleased by Mid-America’s $950, it was out of reach for most people.

INS Publishing. Order all and discussing the works of Jay Adams in the When it was announced that MidDr. Adams’ books online at same way we read and profit from Spurgeon, America’s INS had become the publisher INSBOOKSTORE.COM Calvin, and Luther—another inspiring of most of Dr. Adams’ books, we example of Mission Mid-America’s ever were quickly pressed with pleas to expanding impact.

P.O. Box 2350 • Cordova, Tennessee 38088-2350

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

901-751-8453 • info@mabts.edu • mabts.edu

P I C T U R E Y O U R S E L F AT M I D - A M E R I C A .

PRE VIEW DAY

SPRING P R E V I E W DAY MARCH 26, 2020 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

G R A D U AT E mabts.edu/previewday