Embarrassing if you don’t know history
I value history and this video is a good reminder that if you don’t know history you might be embarrassed at some point.
Key Takeaways from Russia, pt. 2
I walked away from Russia with some key takeaways. Some are weird and some are real. Ok, the weird ones first. Scarves. The Russians thought it was hilarious that I had never worn a scarf before this trip. Texans never really need scarves. I am big on the scarf and even wore it today … Read more
2nd Bethel Anniversary
February 1st has become a significant date for me because today marks my 2-year anniversary at Bethel. Today gives me an opportunity to reflect upon my experience in Houston. Simply, I continue to be thankful. God’s grace has been surprising and deep. Mason asked me yesterday why we go to church at Bethel and why … Read more
The One Non-Negotiable
Dr. Boys’ sermon at DTS.
Key Takeaways from Russia, pt.1
Russia was a life changing experience for me. Travelling is always a positive occurrence because you can compare and contrast cultures. Each time I leave the United States I return loving my country even more, but always being changed by a new land. Travelling on a mission trip is special because you get to experience … Read more
Funny Moments from Russia
The last couple of days have been long and productive. On Wednesday the Christians in Russia were celebrating the baptism of Jesus and the Baptist churches have chosen to participate. That night after our full day of lessons, we drove two hours to a Baptist church outside of Saint Petersburg. Valarie, Bryan, and I preached … Read more
Beautiful Saint Petersburg
God has placed Saint Petersburg on the heart of our Senior Pastor, in turn Michael has lead our network of churches to minister here. St. Pete is roughly the same size as Houston (4.5 to 5 million people). This is also a port city hosting large corporations. Michael has found a kinship with Pastor Victor … Read more
First Day of Class
Monday was our first day of class. My primary mission in Russia is to teach a course on preaching. Bryan McKenzie and I are teaching a week long course entitled “Preaching Doctrine.” We are serving under the banner of the Slavic Gospel Association’s “Antioch Initiative.” This initiative provides free theological training to pastors in Russia. … Read more
Highlights from Central Church
It was a joy to attend Central Baptist Church yesterday. Pastor Victor was even gracious enough to allow me to preach. Russian churches typically last a couple of hours and have 2 to 3 sermons each week. Since they have so many sermons they require more preachers. They have a bullpen of guys to call … Read more
Slahvah Bogu
“Slahvah Bogu” means “Praise God” in Russian. This translation is on the list of “Common Russian Phrases” in the Slavic Gospel Association’s travel manual. At first glance I thought it was amusing and nice that it was included on the list, but today I found out that it is truly a “Common Russian Phrase” at … Read more
