Today our family celebrated Matthew and Katie’s marriage in Seattle, Washington (see photos). Matthew is our fourth and youngest child, and he means so much to Terrie and me. We’re thankful for His growth in the Lord and heart for the Lord’s work.

Matt met Katie during their first year at West Coast Baptist College, and they began dating several weeks later. It’s been a joy to see their relationship grow, and I know the Lord will use them mightily. (more…)

Yesterday marked what could be a day of celebration for thousands of churches around our country—Dr. David Gibbs’ birthday. Our staff was privileged to celebrate this special event during our annual staff training last week.

Dr. Gibbs was born August 22, 1944, in Alabama. He grew up on a farm in rural Ohio with godly Christian parents. As a young boy, Dr. Gibbs trusted Christ as his Saviour. After graduating from high school, he pursued a career in law. (more…)

The past twenty-four hours have been a vital time of training for our staff. It’s been thrilling for me to share the goals the Lord has placed on my heart for the coming year with a group of like-minded servants. We’ve all been encouraged and greatly challenged also by the teaching of Dr. David Gibbs and his assistant, Brother Steve Kluth. I’m thankful they would give of their time to us.

In these hours, I’ve shared much in the way of philosophies and implementing strategy, but during the lunch break today, I saw what captures the heart of our entire time of training. A group of staff members were gathered around a large map of the Antelope Valley that we’ve yearly displayed. They were identifying the areas their adult classes are given to reach with the Gospel and were, no doubt, praying for the Lord to give a harvest of souls. Even with binders full of notes, ideas, and lists, their focus was on reaching the lost. (more…)

It’s difficult to believe that 24 years have passed since that first summer of 1986 when Terrie and I first came to Lancaster Baptist Church. Today our church celebrates our 24th anniversary, and we praise the Lord for the victories and blessings He has given us. He has far exceeded our grandest imaginations.

As our church now begins our 25th year of ministry, we’re asking the Lord to continue to use us and to reignite our passion for His work. Like the early church in Jerusalem, we desire to continue steadfastly (Acts 2:42), consistently moving forward in the work of the Lord.

Last Sunday night, I shared with our church family three reasons, given in Acts 2:42–45, that the early church continued on. Any church who follows these principles can stand strong for the Lord in the years ahead. (more…)

Twenty-four years ago today, Terrie and I drove into Lancaster with a Ryder truck behind us. Driving the truck was a man from our church who helped us move, and in the passenger seat was a teenager from the Christian school I had administrated—Cary Schmidt.

Cary helped unload the truck and then asked if he could stay and help us for a couple of weeks. For two weeks, Cary assisted me in soulwinnning and church renovation, and he played the piano for church services.

Four years later, with a Bible college diploma and a new bride, Cary returned to Lancaster—this time as staff. For twenty years, Cary and Dana Schmidt have labored with us here at Lancaster Baptist Church. This past Sunday night, we recognized their faithful service. (more…)