Mid-America Messenger-Winter 2021

FOREVER FAMILY STUDENTS, FACULTY, STAFF, ALUMNI, AND SUPPORTERS—MID-AMERICA IS A FAMILY FOCUSED ON IMPACTING ETERNITY FOR CHRIST

“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household.”

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVES

family

THE MID-AMERICA EPHESIANS 2:19

FACULTY/STAFF

T

he Bible uses numerous words to describe the unity

STUDENTS

between brothers and sisters in Christ. One description of that unity is “fellowship,” but that word has come to

mean a gathering or a meal more than anything else. A word not appearing in the Bible but capturing the essence of several biblical ideas is the word team. In this case, team has a sense of a group dedicated to a common purpose. The word team, however, does not capture the essence of that sweet unity in Christ where we are seeking to accomplish the will of God. The word family means a relationship by blood, and for the believer this can have a double meaning. We do have some kinfolk that we connect with by blood or marriage, but we also have kin that we connect with through the blood-bought salvation of Jesus Christ. The family of God can be another way of describing a local church or any group of believers united for a common, divine purpose.

I believe that the Mid-America family is a blood-bought team of believers working together to train people for ministry and missions, for service, and for evangelism. To everyone that makes the Mid-America team a family, I say a special thank you for what you have done and are preparing to do for the exciting days ahead.

Let’s go family!

MICHAEL R. SPRADLIN, PHD

PRESIDENT | MID-AMERICA SEMINARY AND COLLEGE

COMMUNITY is one of Mid-America’s Seven Values.

We are committed to fostering a sense of community, becoming a forever family of friends and fellowshipping in the common bond of Christ and His Gospel.

2 MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

ALUMNI SUPPORTERS

INSIDE

A FOREVER FAMILY OF FRIENDS The sense of community that extends through the Mid-America family is one of our seven values and a distinctive that sets apart the Mid-America experience. If you’re not already part of the family, we invite you to join us.

Read on for stories about our students, faculty and staff, alumni, and supporters.

family STUDENTS

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WINTER 2021 VOLUME 49, NUMBER 2 Published by Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary and The College at Mid-America PRESIDENT Michael Spradlin, PhD EDITOR Randy Redd, PhD DESIGN Eternity Communications WEB mabts.edu collegeatmidamerica.com EMAIL info@mabts.edu SOCIAL  facebook.com/mabts.edu  twitter.com/mabts  instagram.com/mabts_

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family

FACULTY & STAFF

family

ALUMNI

20 family

SUPPORTERS

Mid-America’s world class faculty and staff lead our family, are connected with students and supporters, and are committed to the Gospel.

When you graduate from MidAmerica, you join a global family that magnifies your ministry for life.

Mid-America’s faithful supporters give their time, talent, and treasure, investing in the ministries of students and the advancement of the Gospel.

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NEWS & EVENTS

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

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Discover how Mid-America is expanding our ministry to prisons, impacting the culture, helping train biblical counselors, and much more. Additional highlights on pages 18–19.

PRACTICAL MISSIONS Mid-America students have averaged 67 professions of faith per week over the 49 years since being founded in 1972. See the latest update and totals.

PREVIEW DAY Know someone looking for a college or seminary? Or maybe that someone is you! Make plans now to experience Mid-America at our Spring Preview Day, April 21, 2022.

A FOREVER FAMI

BY MARY HANNAH MARK

out of desperation to stay in school, but I stayed at Mid-

S

America because of the community.

America, but circumstances prevented me from returning to

wanted to study during lunch, you basically had to leave

the school I had already attended for two years. I was stuck

the cafeteria because someone would always invite you to

back home in Memphis and had no idea what to do next.

sit with them.

ASSISTANT TO THE DIRECTOR OF STUDENT LIFE even years ago, I arrived at Mid-America for my

FROM THE PROFESSORS TO THE STAFF TO MY

first day of class. I brought one pencil and one

CLASSMATES, everyone seemed to care about getting

notebook, and I knew one person. My original

to know me. Even as a brand-new student, I never had to

college plans never involved classes at Mid-

worry about sitting by myself at lunch or in chapel. If you

That’s when a friend and mentor recommended Mid-

What I loved even more about my new friends was that

America. Mid-America was affordable, biblically sound, and

their conversations always seemed to find their way to

had an undergrad program, so I

the Lord. Lunch always involved discussing theology,

enrolled for one semester

what God had been teaching someone, or

until I could make

dreams of sharing the Gospel with the

other arrangements.

world. The people here encouraged

I came to class

me and challenged me to deepen

family

MID-AMERICA FAMILY: STUDENTS

MILY OF FRIENDS my walk with the Lord, and they inspired me to serve my

and I met at Mid-America in 2018, and we got married last

community by sharing the Gospel.

year in the middle of the pandemic. Planning a wedding is

TO ME, THE MID-AMERICA FAMILY IS THE IDEAL

complicated from the start, but a wedding in a pandemic

CHRISTIAN COLLEGE EXPERIENCE: being surrounded by

is a different ballgame entirely. When COVID made

people who genuinely care about you and spur you on to

everything extra difficult, my Mid-America friends were

serve the Lord. All that sounds wonderful and warm, but

there to help with everything from the food to the signage

sometimes friendship means dealing with difficulties and

to picking up the flowers. Our wedding was incredibly less

grief. The friends I made at Mid-America were there during

stressful because of the help we received from our friends

all the messy parts of life, too. They helped me through

here. You will not find a more honest, dependable, caring,

my parents’ divorce. They spent time with me, talked with

and loving group of people than the Mid-America family.

me, encouraged me, and prayed for me. The same friends

For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of

drove me to the ER at 4:00 a.m. when a random virus put

working in the Student Life office and work with students

me in the hospital for four days. Afterward, they ensured I

directly to create community and encourage the student

got plenty of rest, food, water, and anything else I needed.

body. One of the best parts of my job is watching my

One more way the Mid-America family made a significant impact on my personal life is how they helped with my wedding.

My husband Christian

classmates welcome new students into the Mid-America family. The Student Life office sets a date, orders the food, and sends out the invitations, but the students make the community thrive.

Seven years ago, I desperately needed that community, and the Lord provided through MidAmerica. Mid-America’s academic and ministry training are fantastic, but students are here for only a few years. The incredible friends you make here are for life.

Mary Hannah Mark (center) enjoying fellowship in one of Mid-America’s new lounge areas with Cathy Danam (left) and Elizabeth Frizzell (right).

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GET TO KNOW THE MID-AMERICA TEAM

Nick Brown DIRECTOR OF STUDENT LIFE

Mid-America is pleased to introduce Nick Brown who has joined

Counseling department. My pastoral and counseling training and

our team as Director of Student Life. Please welcome him and

experience, Lord willing, will significantly benefit the student body

pray for Nick and his family as they transition into and serve in

as the Director of Student Life.

this new capacity.

PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE AND WHAT YOU HOPE

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL BACKGROUND,

TO ACCOMPLISH.

TESTIMONY, AND FAMILY.

My responsibility is to create and support high-quality student

I grew up in North Texas with a loving family. At 16 years of age, I

life experiences for the student body of Mid-America. In my role, I

professed Jesus as my Lord and Savior after a season of studying

hope to provide an excellent environment where students can get

the book of Romans. Soon after becoming a follower of Jesus,

connected to other students so that the biblical “one anothers”

the Lord created a desire in me for pastoral ministry. This desire

can be lived out. Additionally, I hope to provide the pastoral

led me to pursue theological training, where I met my wife of 20

shepherding that students need during these years of formal

years, Cindy Brown. We have five children altogether. Two in Glory

education.

(Presley and Quinn) and three with us today (Arabella 15, Trinity

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT MID-AMERICA’S

13, and Cadence 4).

FUTURE?

WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND, AND

It is becoming harder and harder to find Bible college and

HOW WILL IT BENEFIT MID-AMERICA?

Seminary education committed to the sufficiency of Scripture

I have been in pastoral ministry since 1998 and continue to

and the Great Commission. It’s exciting to serve at a school that

pastor today as the Lead Pastor of Collierville Bible Church.

has such a high level of doctrinal integrity along with obedience

Additionally, I am certified through the Association of Certified

to make disciples. Come to the campus, talk to the students,

Biblical Counselors. I have a bachelor’s degree in pastoral ministry

and hear for yourself why this commitment to the Scriptures and

and a master’s degree in biblical counseling. Since 2019, I have

making disciples has created an exciting environment.

been serving as an adjunct professor in the undergraduate Biblical

STUDENT LIFE ACTIVITIES help build a strong sense of community and belonging. Plus, they’re just fun—a welcome break from classes and study.

Nick Brown will help foster the family feel for which Mid-America is known.

MID-AMERICA BEGINS NEW PRISON INITIATIVE IN COLORADO

apply. Upon graduation, the department of corrections

Mid-America is beginning its second prison ministry,

ministers to help promote moral rehabilitation within

establishing what is planned to be a fully accredited

the prison they serve.

in the prison system. Tasked with various assignments, the department of corrections uses these field

Inmate students learn to communicate biblical truth with conviction, be

Facility in Limon, Colorado.

missional and evangelistic, make

The Prison Seminaries Foundation

disciples, promote a peaceful

contacted Mid-America about establishing seminary education

community, serve others, and lead

within state prison systems to

by example. Inside a spiritually dark

promote moral rehabilitation. As a

and violent place, Mid-America’s

result, Mid-America began in 2019

inmate student body demonstrates Mid-America’s core values in the

offering a fully accredited Bachelor

general population as they share the

of Arts in Christian Studies program at the Varner Supermax Unit in Varner, Arkansas, which is overseen by Dr.

HIGHLIGHTS

degree program at the Limon Correctional

invites eligible inmates to participate as field ministers

Daniel Jones, PhD Director, Colorado Prison Initiative

Good News of Jesus Christ among their peers.

Mark Thompson. The new Colorado program will be led by Dr. Daniel Jones.

Inmates who participate receive an education

In these prison settings, we

inquire of inmates interested in our initiative, “Are you ready to answer the call of God to impact the prison

tailored to equip them to minister to other inmates.

system for Jesus’ sake?” Similarly, we ask you...Are you

As Mid-America students, the exact academic

ready to answer God’s call to become a Mid-America

expectations and moral standards of Mid-America

student or support Mid-America’s ministry as a donor?

in style!

If so, prayerfully consider applying or giving today.

REPRESENT MID-AMERICA

Shop online for hundreds of items—all with Mid-America logos or messages. You’ll not only be representing our school, you’ll also be witnessing to the name of Christ!

GO TO SHOPMIDAMERICA.COM

Browse for: zz Apparel for women, men, and youth zz Headwear zz Face masks zz Drinkware zz Gifts, food & accessories zz Promotional products zz Business accessories zz Decals/signage/skins zz Golf products zz Outdoor/leisure

GREAT GIFT IDEAS!

family

MID-AMERICA FAMILY: FACULTY & STAFF

 MEET MORE OF OUR FACULTY AND STAFF AT MABTS.EDU/DIRECTORY

MID-AMERICA’S WORLD CLASS FACULTY AND STAFF LEAD OUR FAMILY, ARE CONNECTED WITH STUDENTS AND SUPPORTERS, AND ARE COMMITTED TO THE GOSPEL.

BY DR. KEN LEWIS

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

are cast upon the Lord for His grace to meet them. The prayer time also includes intercession for our alumni

T

and missionaries on their birthdays and unreached

sauce to this church’s influence and impact for the

The apostle Paul admonished the Philippian Christians

he Apostle Paul in his letter to church in Philippi expressed his prayerful desire that they are, “standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving side by side for the faith

of the Gospel” (Philippians 1:27b, ESV). The secret

people groups around the world. This devotional practice serves as reminder of our role in the Great Commission beyond the chapel and classroom.

UNITY

Gospel was not its size, budget, or public stature.

to stand resolute and together for the faith of the

Instead, it was their steadfast and unified commitment

Gospel. He used two metaphors in Philippians 1:27b

to the spread of the Gospel.

to describe how the believers were to maintain their

The Gospel focus of Mid-America is motivated and maintained by its unwavering allegiance to the pillars of the Bible, missions,

unified witness for the Gospel. The word translated “stand” is a military term that means, “to be firmly committed in conviction or belief.” It is quite fitting

and evangelism.

that our founder, Dr. Gray Allison, was a military man,

The faculty plays

decorated war veteran, who led the establishment of a

an integral role in fulfillment and furtherance of the mission. The faculty serving this institution are more than signatories to a set of articles; we are fellow laborers for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The following practices that characterize the Mid-America faculty explain its effectiveness and enduring pursuit to be world-class in its worldwide mission.

PRAYER While our faculty consists of persons highly accomplished and eminently competent, we understand that effective ministry occurs through the power of God rather than the pedigree of people.

Thus, the Mid-America faculty commits the beginning of each school and workday with Bible reading and prayer. This devotional time establishes spiritual

seminary that would take an unwavering stand on the inerrancy and the sufficiency of Scripture (all of it). Dr. Allison’s stand continues to be our stand. Our faculty holds that being unequivocal in these core tenets is critical in matters of integrity and unity.

The second metaphor Paul used in the text is the word translated, “striving together,” which comes from the athletic games of the day. Paul painted a picture for the church that effective ministry is a team sport.

Richard Melick’s comment is quite relevant: “complete harmony of purpose and coordination of various elements was necessary to achieve God’s purposes.”

No one person can do more or better than they could do together. The Mid-America faculty functions as a team to carry out the mission in preparing students for their God-given assignments.

COOPERATION The regular prayer meetings before the Lord offer

priorities and commits the work ahead to the Lord.

precious time for faculty fellowship with each other.

The needs of students, faculty, staff, and the school

The faculty prays for each other’s needs and rejoices

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over answered prayer. This time also becomes an

While requiring our students to participate in personal

occasion to share reports of evangelistic engagements.

witnessing, Mid-America faculty leads the way. It

The collegiality of the faculty stems from the

Our faculty are not only leaders in the Mid-America family, but are also ministry and thought leaders in the larger Christian community.

(Top to bottom) Dr. Brad Thompson, Dr. Steve Miller, and Dr. Matt Akers

matters immensely that our faculty commits itself to

conviction that, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man

what is required of our students regarding this vital

sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). The diverse

spiritual discipline.

experiences and interests constitute a well-rounded faculty that readily offers encouragement and

MENTORING

counsel to one another. The junior faculty seeks the

The faculty at Mid-America understands that our

wisdom and insight of the experienced faculty. The

ministry goes to all the world through the students that

experienced faculty values the input and perspectives

we train. Therefore, the mentoring relationships are

of the junior faculty. The mutual respect of the faculty

developed and maintained throughout the student’s

allows each member to be more than a face but also a

time here and beyond. Jesus modeled a similar

voice that is welcomed and heard.

relationship with his disciples as He called them to be

CHARACTER

with Him and sent them out to preach the Gospel (Mark

The qualities of one who would serve in ministry

ministry preparedness is caught rather than taught.

3:14). Jesus demonstrated the adage that so much of

are more concerned with character rather than

The Mid-America faculty has deep ministry

competence. Paul explained forthrightly in 1 Timothy

experience in the local church, missionaries, and

3 and Titus 1 the character qualities one must have

parachurch ministry. Many faculty members currently

in being a servant leader in the Lord’s church. Being

serve the church as pastors or staff members.

that we are training people for Gospel ministry, we

This ministry involvement enriches the classroom

understand that strong character must be modeled

experience for our students beyond the theoretical to

and developed in our students. The biblical values of

the practical. The imminent value of serving the local

family, honesty, hard work, and integrity are inculcated

church is exemplified and emphasized by our faculty.

by each faculty member and instilled in our students.

The Mid-America faculty labors together for

Spiritual formation is the essence of character

the faith of the Gospel. Our collective assignment

development. We emphasize the importance

goes beyond our campus “to all the world for

of personal devotions for spiritual health.

Jesus’ sake.” The work that we do is a labor of love

Mid-America also believes strongly in the

whether teaching, mentoring, or writing. The faculty

regular practice of engaging our world

commits itself to a standard of ministry excellence

with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the only

so that in everything, the Lord Jesus Christ “might

message of hope.

be preeminent” (Colossians 1:18). Being a part of a dynamic and devoted faculty roster keeps our Lord front and center with the ethic that Paul instructed the Christians in Colossae, “whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him” (Colossians 3:17).

GET TO KNOW THE MID-AMERICA TEAM

Dr. Candi Finch ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR AND DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS

Mid-America is pleased to introduce Dr. Candi Finch who

While people are my passion, I see the need for good, solid,

has joined our team as Associate Professor and Director of

biblically faithful resources to help in equipping people. I have

Admissions. Please welcome her and pray for Candi as she

contributed to several books, including the Women’s Evangelical

transitions into and serves in this new capacity.

Commentary on the New Testament and Old Testament. I served

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL BACKGROUND,

as a section editor for The Study Bible for Women and have written

TESTIMONY, AND FAMILY. I am originally from Tampa, Florida, and I come from a great family with loving parents and three brothers and two sisters. I

chapters on the wives of Adoniram Judson, on the impact of feminism on the home and family, and most recently on gender identity for the forthcoming book from Northeastern Press called

accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior right before I started high

Does It Still Matter?

school and am eternally grateful for the people in my local church

PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE AND WHAT YOU HOPE

who discipled me in my faith and for friends who are the “iron

TO ACCOMPLISH.

sharpens iron” kind who encourage me to keep running my race

I am thrilled to be serving as the Director of Admissions, Dean

for the Lord. My life with God has been an adventure. I’ve had the

of Women, and an Associate Professor of Women’s Studies

opportunity to serve Him by investing in the lives of young people

in Theology. I pray that through those roles I will be able to

both in the United States and overseas, on a church staff and as a

continue the legacy of calling forward and training people who

volunteer in my local church, and through the classroom in Bible

are passionate and courageous about reaching this world with

colleges and seminaries.

the Gospel.

WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND, AND

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT MID-AMERICA’S

HOW WILL IT BENEFIT MID-AMERICA?

FUTURE?

I graduated with my BA in Communication from the University

Mid-America’s emphasis on practical missions and evangelism

of South Florida and with my MDIV in Women’s Studies and PhD

is like nothing I have ever experienced at other educational

in Systematic Theology from Southwestern Seminary. I love

institutions. Here theory and theology are put into action. Students

discipleship and view what a professor does in the classroom as

receive incredible instruction in the classroom and are required to

a form of discipleship. I’ve had the privilege of teaching women

put that into practice week by week. Seeing faculty and students

in the United States and overseas such courses as Biblical

live out what God has commanded His people to do thrills me

Theology of Womanhood, Feminist Theology, Spiritual Formation,

about Mid-America’s future.

Hermeneutics, Christian Doctrine, Text-Driven Communication, Women in Church History, and Ministry to Women and Young Women.

LOOKING FOR A COLLEGE OR SEMINARY OR KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS? Dr. Finch invites you to contact her and the Admissions office by calling 901-751-3060 or emailing admissions@mabts.edu.

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family

MID-AMERICA FAMILY: ALUMNI

MID-AME

BY LARRY A. THOMPSON

MID-AMERICA ALUMNUS, MDIV, 1995

W

hen God called me into ministry, I was seven years into my “secular” career. I desperately needed training, so I began searching for a seminary.

I knew nothing. I asked the pastor of my hometown

church, Hershael York, where I should go. The year was 1991, and he said if you want conservative theology and an emphasis on missions and evangelism, there’s only one game in town: Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. He was already an MABTS alumnus (MDIV, 1988) and was working on his PhD at Mid-America. I didn’t know enough to know what liberal theology was, but it sounded bad, and I trusted and admired Hershael, so we sold the house in Alabama, packed up, and moved to Memphis.

LITTLE DID I KNOW WHAT WISE ADVICE I HAD RECEIVED from a friend and alum. Little did I know how much that one decision would affect the rest of my life.

When I got to Mid-America, I quickly discovered I knew even less than I thought. I hadn’t attended Bible college nor had any theological training other than what I learned in church. My undergrad degree

WHEN YOU GRADUATE FROM MID-AMERICA, YOU JOIN A GLOBAL FAMILY THAT MAGNIFIES YOUR MINISTRY FOR LIFE.

came from a state university, and when God called me, I was focused solely on my career. But I discovered that at Mid-America, I wasn’t alone. I was surrounded by many men in the same boat, who had been well into a career and were going back to school to pursue training for ministry. I immediately felt a sense of family within this new community.

MERICA FOR LIFE

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a Mid-American. And that makes you MidAmerica for life, part of a forever family of friends.

Today, more than a quarter century after walking across that stage at the downtown campus and being handed my diploma by MidAmerica founder Dr. B. Gray Allison (see photo at left), I still share friendships that began at MABTS. Our relationships were cemented by discussing theology at lunch tables in the Mid-America cafeteria, One of my new friends, Clayton Cloer, had a nearly

“

“Those were the down-inthe-trenches moments that forged forever friendships.

They turned classmates into family members.

or cultivating our devotional life in a professor’s office

identical story, leaving a promising business career to

during his after-class discipleship group, or winning

become equipped to pastor. (He’s now Senior Pastor at

the lost at a Memphis housing project doing practical

the Church at the Cross, Ocoee, Florida.) I had no idea

missions. Those were the down-in-the-trenches

what God would do with me after seminary. As it turns

moments that forged forever friendships. They

out, God didn’t lead me into a preaching ministry but

turned classmates into family members, the kind of

used my background in the ad agency world to start

friends that you can run into at the Southern Baptist

a communications ministry. My very first client? Friend

Convention 25 years later and pick right back up where

and fellow alumnus Dr. Clayton Cloer and his church in

you left off. Once Mid-America, always Mid-America.

Florida.

To this day, if I was struggling with a spiritual

Friends. Family. Community. Partners in the Gospel.

problem or wrestling with a thorny theological issue,

THAT’S WHAT SETS MID-AMERICA APART. You

the first person I would phone is a Mid-America alum.

see, in the 1990s, you paid a little bit of a price to go to

I know I can trust the advice of a fellow Mid-American,

Mid-America. The school was different and still is. It’s

just like I trusted that seminary referral 30 years ago.

all the best of what Southern Baptists stand for, but it’s

IF YOU’RE A MID-AMERICA ALUMNUS, I know

not beholden to anyone but Christ. It was founded by

you understand the kind of bond I’m talking about.

men who never stopped believing in the Bible—even

I encourage you to keep these connections strong.

during the liberal-leaning 1960s and 1970s. It was

Support one another with encouragement and prayer.

conservative before conservative was cool. And even

And support our alma mater with prayer and financial

as late as the early 1990s, that made us mavericks.

support.

Mid-America Mavericks. It also bonded us. Branded us.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A SEMINARY OR

Once you went to Mid-America, it became part of your

COLLEGE, I encourage you to become part of the

brand. And you became part of its family.

Mid-America family. It’s more than a world-class

TODAY, WHEN YOU TELL SOMEONE YOU

theological education. It comes with a free lifetime

GRADUATED FROM MID-AMERICA, they know exactly

membership to the forever family of friends that is the

where you stand. You represent the Bible. Missions.

Mid-America community.

Evangelism. And when you meet a fellow alumnus, you

Be a Mid-American. Be committed to Bible,

know you’ve met a brother or sister. They get you, and

missions, and evangelism. Be part of the chorus who

you get them. It matters not whether you graduated

will forever sing, “Lift high the Cross, His love proclaim.

shortly after the school began in the 70s, or in the

Mid-America, bear His name!” Be a part of the Mid-

mid-90s like I did, or are part of the Class of ’21, you’re

America family. Be Mid-America for life.

14 MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

“

ALUMNI, HOW HAS BEING PART OF THE MID-AMERICA FAMILY IMPACTED YOUR LIFE AND MINISTRY?

“Being part of the Mid-America family has impacted my life and ministry through the training, inspiration, exposure, and sense of the call to the Northeast and the world that I received through the professors and guest speakers at MABTS.” LARRY PRIDMORE (MDIV 1978) Baptist preacher

“I cannot imagine my life and ministry without Mid-America. Whether in the chapel, classroom, or even the cafeteria, everything in the school resounded with a love for Christ and a passion to reach the lost for His glory in a way that resonates in me to this day.”

HERSHAEL W. YORK (MDIV 1988; PHD 1993) Dean and Professor, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Senior Pastor, Buck Run Baptist Church, Frankfort, Kentucky

“Prior to studying at MABTS, I never imagined I would have the opportunities to do what God has allowed me to do in ministry. MABTS figured prominently in my preparation for every one of those opportunities; but much to my surprise, the MABTS community most significantly impacted my marriage.”

FRANK ANDERSON, JR. (MDIV 1994; PHD 2000) Professor, Union University

“Mid-America helped me nurture a love for the Lord Jesus, compassion for the lost, and tools to serve God with my life. “To all the world for Jesus’ sake” has become more than a phrase in a song but a lifelong pursuit thanks to the investment of MABTS leaders.”

DON R. COCKES (MDIV 1995) SBC of Virginia

“Being a part of MABTS has given me a greater understanding of the Bible: how to understand it, how to teach it, how to study it, and how to love and appreciate it more. I’m so thankful for God’s Word and for the ministry of Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary.”

MELANIE REDD (MACE 2014) Author and speaker

“Mid America is the first place outside of my church where I could see God working through people so clearly. I grew much closer to God just from being there and learning and worshiping. I always felt I could confide in or ask any spiritual question to the teachers there.”

CAROLYN WINDER (BSBA 2020) Recent college graduate

ALUMNI, STAY CONNECTED WITH MID-AMERICA BY VISITING MABTS.EDU/ALUMNI AND FOLLOWING US ON SOCIAL MEDIA.

MINISTERING TOGETHER BUILDS COM

BY DR. MATTHEW AKERS

ASSOCIATE DEAN OF DOCTORAL PROGRAMS; DIRECTOR OF PRACTICAL MISSIONS

A

fter serving alongside his fellow apostles for three years as Jesus taught these men the importance of working together for God’s glory, Peter understood well the concept of a spiritual community.

Early on he realized that no Christian is to walk through this

life alone because all believers are a spiritual family. As the elderly Peter encouraged a new generation of believers in his writings, the Holy Spirit moved him to identify Christ as our chief cornerstone (1 Peter 2:6–8). This important illustration signifies that the Son of God is the standard by which we should measure our beliefs and actions.

Peter’s imagery also speaks of Christians in architectural terms. He explains, “And you also as living stones are being built into a spiritual house for a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:5). This verse highlights the Lord’s desire for us to become an authentic community. Just as human body parts are not meant to be detached from the body, God’s intention for us is to function as one unit (1 Corinthians 12:18). Authentic expressions of Christianity always emphasize community.

MINISTERING TOGETHER BUILDS THE UNITY that should be a part of believers’ lives in a variety of ways. First, working in the Lord’s harvest as co-laborers helps us to take the focus off ourselves and to concentrate on the mission to which God has assigned us (1 Corinthians 3:5–9). When we see how God uses others, it gives us an appreciation for how He blends our efforts into a harmonious act of service that pleases Him. Second, the resulting unity of mind cultivates such important characteristics as sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind (1 Peter 3:8).

Without these qualities, a community cannot function well. Whenever these virtues are present, however, we enjoy peace with one another (Ephesians 4:3).

Third, Christian community keeps us on track during hard times. Believers can experience great discouragement that negatively impacts our service.

Working together provides us with an opportunity to encourage each other when we have allowed disappointing circumstances to diminish our faithfulness to God (Hebrews 10:24–25). Whenever one of us falls, other believers can encourage us to dust ourselves off and continue walking with Christ (cf.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).

MID-AMERICA’S WITNESS ONE:SEVEN AND GO! PROGRAMS are excellent means for building community while serving the Lord in meaningful ways. Many co-laborers in the various ministries in which students involve themselves have developed lifelong friendships and vibrant support systems that embolden them to keep serving the Lord no matter what difficulties they endure. A Christ-centered community is a marvelous gift from God! 16 MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

MMUNITY

WITNESS ONE:SEVEN & GO! PROGRAM REPORT

2021

166, 648 PROFESSIONS OF FAITH WITNESSED BY OUR STUDENTS SINCE 1972

9, 840 3,921 NUMBER OF HOURS OUR STUDENTS SPENT DOING PRACTICAL MISSIONS

576

NUMBER OF PROFESSIONS OF FAITH THROUGH THE WITNESSING OF OUR STUDENTS THIS YEAR

NUMBER OF PEOPLE OUR STUDENTS WITNESSED TO

1,792 NUMBER OF SERMONS PREACHED BY OUR STUDENTS

Witness One:Seven and GO! Program results reported through Summer 2021

CITIZENS FOR AMERICA AND MABTS HOST 2022 CULTURE ENGAGEMENT SUMMIT AT MID-AMERICA

BY DR. CHRIS HUGHES

FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN, THE CITIZENS FOR AMERICA FOUNDATION Join us for the 2022 Citizens for America Mid-America Culture Engagement Summit. To educate and train the next generation to impact the culture for Jesus, CFA and MABTS will host the nation’s premier Conservative Christian Culture Engagement Event on April 30, 2022. Attendees will learn what the Bible says about traditional marriage, religious liberty, and the sanctity of human life. They will leave the campus of Mid-America with a firm understanding of what the Bible has to say about the key issues discussed in culture today. The Summit will showcase the world’s leading Christian apologists and conservative Christian voices as they educate, inform, and mobilize Christians to impact the culture for Jesus with a biblical worldview.

MID-AMERICA’S COUNSELING BY THE BOOK CERTIFICATE. THE FASTEST ROUTE TO BECOMING EQUIPPED TO COUNSEL. Counseling by the Book is a new self-directed biblical counseling training program developed by Dr. John Babler, Chairman of the Biblical Counseling department at Mid-America. You get 33 comprehensive sessions of Dr. Babler’s best teaching. Watch them anytime, any place, on any device. Mid-America awards a certificate upon completion of the program. Counseling by the Book puts you on the fast track to helping people you care about by using the all-sufficient Scriptures to counsel.

COUNSELING BY THE

BOOK

DISCOVER MORE OR START THE PROGRAM AT MABTS.EDU/CBTB

DR. BRAND ELECTED AS FIRST VP OF SBC serve as the Southern Baptist Convention’s First Vice President during the Annual Meeting of the SBC on June 16, 2021. A two-

of Student Life, overseeing the offices of Admissions,

time Mid-America

Student Life, and Housing. The Student Life

graduate (MDIV

department focuses on building and strengthening

and PhD) and

relationships with current and prospective students

former pastor,

through local, national, and international programs.

Dr. Brand now

Dr. Mewborn said, “What excites me most about

serves as

Mid-America’s future is our amazing faculty, staff,

Vice President

and students. The Lord has blessed our school

and Dean of

with godly folks who are equipped to lead

Seminary. His message remains focused on the

Dr. Mikey Mewborn has been appointed Vice President

HIGHLIGHTS

Mid-America’s own Dr. Lee Brand Jr. was elected to

DR. MEWBORN BECOMES VP OF STUDENT LIFE, ADMISSIONS

our academic community and the world to a

Dr. Lee Brand Jr.

sufficiency of Scripture as the preeminent solution to the problems facing the convention and the world. Read more about his election and his vision for the SBC at mabts.edu/Brand-First-VP.

relationship with Christ Jesus. Our Mid-America family has shown an urgency to know God’s Word and share it with the world. I believe that Mid-America will experience some of her greatest years as we continue to focus on the Bible, evangelism, and missions. To God be the Glory!”

A NEW SEAT OF LEARNING Mid-America’s lobbies and event spaces are getting a facelift! Thanks to a gift by a generous donor, many of Mid-America’s common areas are receiving new flooring, paint, furniture, and decorations. The fresh, more modern look was designed in conjunction with our recent rebranding efforts. The goal is create study and community spaces for students that encourage the expansion and development of Student Life. These outward changes are indicators of the exciting growth occurring at Mid-America. While the redecoration will be a work in progress for the next several months, we love having our alumni, friends, and donors on campus and always welcome the opportunity for fellowship. So come visit us in person for a chapel, or, better yet, bring a potential student with you and get a full tour.

19 MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

Dr. Mikey Mewborn

THE FOUNDATION

family

MID-AMERICA FAMILY: DONORS

20 MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

B

arry and Sherri Griffith have been faithful members

of the Mid-America family for 23 years. MidAmerica’s commitments to the Gospel and to the inerrancy and sufficiency of the Scriptures are what

knit their hearts to Mid-America. Over the years they have increasingly realized that Mid-America is a big family, comprised of many people with the same Gospel goals, who are consciously working towards training and explaining the Scriptures for one goal: changing eternal destinies through the Gospel, one person at a time. While neither Barry or Sherri are graduates of Mid-America, they are delighted to be a part of the MidAmerica family, fulfilling a role in their enthusiastic support and fulfillment of Mid-America’s mission of equipping biblical leaders who will take the Gospel to a waiting world. God has richly blessed their businesses to allow them to participate in a wide range of activities that support spreading the Gospel (“Job #1”).

HOW DID YOU FIRST CONNECT WITH MABTS? In 1995, I (Barry) became a believer in an Arkansas cotton field. Realizing that this changed everything, my question was “What now?” A man I knew suggested that we go to Memphis to listen to what Adrian Rogers had to say at Bellevue Baptist Church. We didn’t know who he was, or what to expect, but went. We were skeptical until we heard him speak. We joined Bellevue that day. About a year and a half later, I began coaching baseball and noticed a man that was always at practice and the games. Eventually I asked him if he would be my assistant coach and he accepted. I had no idea who this unassuming guy was or what he did. He turned out to be Dr. Michael Spradlin, President of Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary!

Over time, he explained what Mid-America did and what his role was there.

ON OF THE FAMILY

PRAY FOR MID-AMERICA. MID-AMERICA PRAYS FOR YOU.

As we learned more about Mid-America, we wanted

since being founded in 1972. Imagine if a local church

to become a part of the rich environment there, so

was reporting such success in the Gospel! Supporting

we got involved. As a result, we have become good

Mid-America is a great way to “get in on what God is

friends with the Spradlins and many others, becoming

doing” and a worthy investment for your time, talent,

members of the Mid-America “family.” Together, he

and treasure.

and Dr. Rogers taught us many things that established

WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR MID-AMERICA?

right priorities in our lives. One very important thing

Our vision is to do even more to support the vision

that we learned was how to handle our resources in a

that is Mid-America’s: equipping biblical leaders

way that will please God and advance the Gospel and

with a deep understanding of the inerrant, sufficient

to pass along that lesson to our employees.

Scriptures, to light the way forward for lost individuals

WHAT IS YOUR MOTIVATION TO SUPPORT MABTS?

in a dark world. We believe in that mission and want to

Three words: The Great Commission! We cannot be

support it. We want to be a part of what God is doing.

on the mission fields of the world and operate our

Right here. Right now.

business at the same time. We can, however, support

HOW WOULD YOU RECOMMEND OTHERS TO

Mid-America’s mission of equipping Bible-centered

SUPPORT MABTS?

leaders who advance the Gospel and train others to

Invest your time, talent, and treasure in Mid-America!

take the Gospel to the entire world. In doing so, we

You’ve probably heard that “The best time to plant

share in their victories among the lost (1 Samuel 30:24).

an oak tree is 30 years ago; the next best time is

We are investing in Mid-America, which, in turn, invests

today.” The same is true for supporting Mid-America.

the Gospel in their students and graduates. The

You can begin today. Ask the Lord how to invest your

R.O.I. (Return On Investment)? The Gospel is spread

time, talent, and treasure in things that will count for

to the lost world! It is the Gospel that will rescue

eternity, according to His plan and His purposes.

those who are “behind enemy lines” and don’t realize their predicament. They must be told. Mid-America students and graduates will tell them! We love their passion for the Gospel. In fact, we just learned that Mid-America students have averaged 67 professions of faith per week over the 49 years

If you find Barry and Sherri Griffith’s story compelling and agree with their commitments to spreading the Gospel by equipping young men and women to become biblically equipped leaders, you should realize that now is an excellent time to consider including Mid-America in your year-end giving, using the enclosed envelope.

The

they share the Gospel locally and

us as we seek to glorify the name of

miracle

around the world. A weekly prayer

Jesus, Creator of all, in everything

guide from the President’s office

that we do.

of MidAmerica

distributes prayer requests to our

The gifts and prayers of our

has long been

faculty, staff, students, and friends.

countless supporters are the means

fueled by prayer.

The guide effectively communicates

through which He has sustained us;

the needs of our campus to our prayer

we remain in great need of prayers for

warriors. Our Chief Development

our faculty, staff, students, graduates,

been faithful to lift up the school and

Officer, Van Gray, and our Institutional

and donors, as we trust Him rather

its needs for a half century.

Advancement department have a

than our plans. Praise Him for His

critical role in this ministry through

extravagant provision.

Donors, friends, faculty, staff, and students have

Now, the school wants to pray for you. The Mid-America Prayer

their communication with our faithful

Ministry is an integral, essential

Mid-Amercia family. We eagerly and

part of our mission. We pray for our

sincerely seek the prayers from all of

brothers and sisters in Christ as

our supporters, asking them to join

22 MID-AMERICA MESSENGER

HAVE A PRAYER NEED?

Tell us how we can pray for you by submitting your prayer request at: MABTS.EDU/PRAYER-SUPPORT

GET TO KNOW THE MID-AMERICA TEAM

Van Gray CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Mid-America is pleased to introduce Van Gray who has joined

Also, the many years of administrative success makes all the

our team as Chief Development Officer. Please welcome him

“paperwork” easy. Interpersonal skills are second nature now,

and pray for Van and his family as they transition into and serve

allowing me to focus on our wonderful, precious donors during

in this new capacity.

our visits, without drawing attention to myself.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL BACKGROUND,

PLEASE DESCRIBE YOUR ROLE AND WHAT YOU HOPE

TESTIMONY, AND FAMILY.

TO ACCOMPLISH.

I’m a native Memphian. I’m the youngest of four children (two

My role is to maintain good relations with our donors, assisting

brothers and one sister); we all graduated from Central High

them in any way I can, and to strengthen the financial position of

School. Both Mom and Dad were raised on farms in Mississippi,

Mid-America. My goal is to ensure that our donors understand

providing a rich background of clear thinking and hard work,

how sincerely we appreciate them and know they are critical to

teaching me to know who I was and Whose I was. Dad sold life

our mission of equipping Biblical leaders. Donors need to know

insurance for 23 years, then began work on the Illinois Central

they are investing in the lives of our students who have averaged

Railroad as a brakeman, where he ended his career. Mom was a

67 professions of faith each week since our founding in 1972.

high school math teacher, teaching trigonometry and calculus.

WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT MID-AMERICA’S

Although I was saved when I was 7 years old, I didn’t fully understand and embrace what that meant until I was 21. That changed everything.

FUTURE? Growth. Our unwavering commitment to the Scriptures is important to prospective students who are looking for Bible-

WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND, AND

centered training in God’s Word. God’s Word has the answers to all

HOW WILL IT BENEFIT MID-AMERICA?

our challenges; Mid-America offers those answers in abundance.

I worked in management at UPS, FedEx, and Williams-Sonoma

We must grow to meet the increasing demand for pastors who will

for a total of 22 years, then owned a wholesale hardwood lumber

preach the Gospel and teach the Scriptures. Mid-America must fill

company for 17 years. Working with so many people, from all

the classrooms, to fill the pulpits, to change the world, one person

walks of life, has allowed me to be comfortable with anyone.

at a time!

INVESTING IN STUDENTS is investing in the Gospel. Our students have witnessed an average of 67 professions of faith each week for the past 50 years. They continue as personal evangelists for years after graduation.

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

PREVIEW DAY THURSDAY, APRIL 21, 2022 SEND US A STUDENT

SEE US FOR YOURSELF

Know someone looking for a college or seminary? Or maybe that someone is you! Make plans now to experience Mid-America at our Spring Preview Day, April 21, 2022. Want to visit sooner? Schedule a Personal Preview Day most anytime. Know a prospective student? Email us at admissions@mabts.edu. Visit our website to learn more and register.

UNDERGRAD collegeatmidamerica.com/previewday

GRADUATE mabts.edu/previewday