NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Comments by Southern Baptist leaders on the nomination of Thom S. Rainer as the next president of LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention included:
— “Thom is one of the most talented and gifted men I know. He has been a pastor, is the leading church growth expert of our day in my judgment, is theologically sound and informed, and has a business background as well … I think he (will) do a tremendous job in building on the excellent foundation laid by Dr. Draper. I also believe, given his experience and background, that he (will) bring to LifeWay a perspective and expertise that organization has never known.”
Daniel L. Akin
President, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, N.C.
–“I have known Dr. Rainer for nine years. I have been blessed to be his family’s pastor and his personal friend during that time. Thom has a passion for evangelism and seeing believers grow in their faith. He has a finance and business background that (is) very helpful in leading a ministry the size of LifeWay. He possesses innovative and visionary skills that set him in the upper level of leaders in the SBC. He has a tremendous amount of experience in consulting with churches and working with publishers. He has a heart for God and a passion for people.”
Kevin Ezell
Pastor, Highview Baptist Church, Louisville, Ky.
— “We are confident that Dr. Rainer is God’s man for LifeWay in the years ahead. He is committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and to the 2000 Baptist Faith & Message (a summary of Southern Baptist doctrines). He is an effective communicator with a proven track record of servant leadership and a consistent walk with the Lord.”
Rick Evans
Chairman, presidential search committee, LifeWay’s board of trustees
— “Thom is a visionary with fresh, innovative ideas. He will appeal to our younger ministers. He is a capable, creative strategist intimately acquainted with the needs of the local church … a prolific author with a keen understanding of trends and culture. What thrills me most is his passion for God’s Kingdom work and his emphasis on evangelism.”
Tom Woodson
Senior Pastor, Sheridan Road Baptist Church, Tulsa, Okla.; recording secretary of LifeWay trustees; and member of the presidential search committee.
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