the midwestern - winter 2010

Newsmagazine for Alumni and Friends of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and College, SBC

Winter 2010

MidwesternTheMidwesternThe

Midwestern embarks on journeyto build new chapel

pages 6-7

winter 2010

Newsmagazine for Alumni and Friends ofMidwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

R. Philip RobertsPresident

T. Patrick HudsonEditor

Charis BucklandD.J. CastillejaCommunications Assistants &Photography

Jenny BuehlerDesigner

The Covington GroupPublisher.............................................................ADDRess CHAnGePOSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

Communications Office5001 N. Oak TrafficwayKansas City, MO 64118

How To ReACH Us

Phone:816.414.3700, ext. 709

Fax:816.414.3797

Internet:www.mbts.edu

Mail:5001 N. Oak TrafficwayKansas City, MO 64118

e-mail:[email protected]

The Midwestern is published quarterlyand is distributed free for alumni andfriends of Midwestern Baptist TheologicalSeminary by the Office of InstitutionalAdvancement, 5001 N. Oak Trafficway,Kansas City, MO 64118. Postage paid atKansas City, MO.

The Midwestern highlights the Seminary’smission: Midwestern Baptist TheologicalSeminary serves the church by biblicallyeducating God-called men and women tobe and make disciples of Jesus Christ.MBTS is affiliated with the SouthernBaptist Convention.

MidwesternThe

PRESIDENT’S EDITORIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

MIDWESTERN NEWS: ‘Confronting Postmodernism: Interfaith

Evangelism Workshop’ held at Midwestern Seminary . . . . . . . . . . . .4

MIDWESTERN NEWS: Ceremonies mark dedication of Rawlings

Court & Interfaith Evangelism Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

CHAPEL FEATURE: Trustees affirm motion to construct

new chapel complex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

CHAPEL NEWS: Builders for Christ to join MBTS on

chapel project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

CHAPEL NEWS: Midwestern seeks volunteers for

chapel construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

MIDWESTERN NEWS: Former MBTS president honored,

renovated classroom building dedicated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

FACULTY COLUMN: The Chapel at Midwestern stands to

fulfill seminary’s spiritual, practical needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Ronald Huggins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

NEWS IN BRIEF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

KEEPING IN TOUCH: News and updates from alumni . . . . . . . . .18

INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT: Come let us build . . . . . . . . . .19

CONTENTS

2 The Midwestern Winter 2010

At the FUSION Shield Ceremony on Jan. 9, Josh Kirk, Hannah Hume, Nathan Smith, Danielle Burdette, andHannah Lucero (pictured left to right) hold their newly awarded shields. MBTS’s undergraduate FUSIONstudents completed Phase 1’s rigorous study and training regimen. Now, as part of their Rites of Passage, eachcandidate received a Medieval Shield, representing the Shield of Faith. FUSION students departed on Jan. 11for Phase 2, which involves assisting foreign missionaries to spread the Gospel throughout the world. Look fora more detailed article about FUSION at www.mbts.edu in the days to come.

Winter 2010 The Midwestern 3

The Psalmist stated in Psalm 127:1 (NASB),“Unless the LORD builds the house, theylabor in vain who build it; Unless the

LORD guards the city, The watchman stays awakein vain.” This is a great truth that we are so familiarwith. This verse notes an important, essential andobvious truth – unless God blesses an enterprise, allhuman effort is in vain. Scripture in all of its gloryoften contains more truth than is often obvious atfirst glance.

Three Warnings: HumanismAs in this terse statement of the ever-present

need of God’s blessings, three dangerous errors ofministry are warned against. One is the mistake ofhumanism. Humanism is basically the idea thathumans are the ultimate source and resource for allefforts, energies and purpose. As Christians andBiblicists, we would deny this concept. However, itcan creep into our thinking from time to time andcertainly into our doing. Many times, efforts andundertakings are made with the idea that it is all upto us. But when the psalmist began his verse with“unless the Lord builds the house,” he reminded allof us who hear or read his words that when itcomes to spiritual work, and the work of theKingdom, that whatever dimension it is taking theLord must be in it. And, He must be workingthrough it.

Three Warnings: FatalismSecondly, the psalmist reminds us of the error

of fatalism. Fatalism is the idea that we can donothing to affect or influence our destinies, goals orlives. The Lord always must be at work for anyproject to be blessed. But, we must labor too. Sothe Psalmist said, “they labor in vain who build it.”He was, therefore, in no way discounting humanendeavor or energy involved in any project. Thewriter made it very clear that human labor andenergy must be involved where there is building –whether it be the walls of Jerusalem, the temple orwhatever undertaking the Lord has in mind for Hispeople.

The same is true for us as Christians. WhateverHe has in mind, we must labor and we must applyour energies, resources, thought and hard work togoals He has set before us. In no way, shape orform will anything instantly appear overnightwithout our commitment to see a certain project orgoal achieved.

Three Warnings: IndividualismThirdly, the psalmist warns us against

individualism. Notably, he stated in the thirdperson plural that, “they labor in vain who build it.”God wants His people to work together to do andsee His purposes accomplished. Therefore, it is“they” who are linked shoulder to shoulder andhand to hand, to move forward for the Kingdom ofGod in unison and community, in fellowship onewith another. It is God’s people together doing Hiswill who attempt and do great things for God.

Nothing is more essential, in reflection on thisverse, than the importance of avoiding all three ofthese fatal mistakes in doing God’s work. The sameprinciple is true in the building of the new chapel atMidwestern Seminary.

There lies before us an amazing opportunity. Itwill be the greatest undertaking in the course of ourhistory, construction-wise; and it will see, webelieve, an enormous witness for the calls of Christ.Imagine Baptist laity committing over 60,000 hoursof hard work and toil for the construction of a first-class, attractive chapel. Our architect, LawrenceCorley, has put in a considerable amount of effort,time and talent in seeing this goal achieved. Youwill note in the drawings how attractive it really is.The project is thrilling. And the concept is God-sized and honoring. To complete this undertakingwill honor the Lord, and I believe that thecommunity here in Kansas City, as well as all whohear of it, will be amazed at the good thing the Lordhas done through Midwestern Seminary. But wemust move together trusting God (avoidinghumanism); giving our best (avoiding fatalism); andbeing in harmony and unison together (avoidingindividualism).

Please consider the important part that youmay play in this entire matter. It could be that theLord wants you to give both financially andphysically to this effort. If you or your churchwould like to volunteer in the chapel’s construction,please contact our office at (816) 414-3701 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Oh yes, and let’s notforget the important issue of prayer – all of usworking together, doing God’s work, dependingupon Him and giving of our utmost to see this goalachieved. That’s the bottom line for Psalm 127: 1,and it’s the bottom line for all we do here atMidwestern Baptist Seminary.

PRESIDENT’S EDITORIAL

R. Philip RobertsPresident

Midwestern must heed psalmist’swarnings during chapel building process


MIDWESTERN NEWS

Confronting Postmodernism: Interfaith EvangelismWorkshop” was the theme of a two-day course hostedby Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas

City, Mo.Ted Cabal of Southern Seminary, Steve Lemke of New Orleans

Seminary and Thor Madsen, David McAlpin and Tom Johnston ofMBTS were among the keynote speakers at the Oct. 16-17workshop.

“This workshop presented an amazing amount of importantand vital information for the purpose of evangelizingPostmoderns,” said Dr. R. Philip Roberts, MBTS President. “All ofthe Southern Baptist scholars involved did an outstanding jobhelping us understand the unique challenges that ministering tothis group presents. We are greatly indebted to them for theirwonderful contributions during the workshop.”

Defining PostmodernismLemke, the Provost and Professor of Philosophy and Ethics at

New Orleans Seminary, opened the course describingPostmodernism as difficult to define. “To provide a clear-cutdefinition of Postmodern thought is challenging,” he said. “It canmean different things to each individual you encounter. Itsstructure isn’t monolithic; it’s greatly varied.”

Despite the fact that Postmodernism doesn’t have a setcharacterization, Lemke did offer eight traits that are common topeople with this mode of thought.

“Truth is relative to many of these people,” Lemke said. “There

are no absolutes, and truth is created or made by each individual.Unlike the idea behind the television series The X-Files, ‘truthcannot be out there.’”

The professor from New Orleans also expressed that in thePostmodern theory there is no essential human nature. He saidpeople are just contingent products of time and chance. “If youbelieve there’s a human nature, it goes back to the belief in acreator,” he said. “This isn’t an option to a Postmodernist. Theydon’t believe in the deepest level of the self. Who you are is asmuch a chance as that of a single orchid in a field of orchids.”

Other areas Lemke described as traits of Postmodern thoughtincluded the denial of authorial intent and authority -- rather it isthe reader who gives the text its meaning; language doesn’t meanany one thing – it can be whatever the reader wants it to mean; themainstream of Western thought is ignored in favor of that which ison the margin of Western culture; the Postmodernist ethicemphasizes freedom and contingency, not objective morality andtruth.

“Postmodern thought is opposed to traditional Christianity,although in some cases it’s open to other forms of spirituality,”Lemke added. “The objective is to get to a point where there is nolonger anything to worship. If they take out the divine, then theyhave no use for defining the meaning of lives with a higher God.

“They further discount the divine inspiration of Scripture andemphasize modern reinterpretations over the original intent of theauthor,” he added. “They use play on words and puns to attemptto detract from the original text and confuse others about its truemeaning.”

Cabal, a professor of Christian Philosophy and AppliedApologetics at Southern Seminary in Louisville, Ky., agreed withLemke’s assessment of defining Postmodern thought. “There is noexact genealogy of how Postmodernism came about,” he said. “Ican tell you, though, that the main theme is skepticism. Whereasthe ideas of knowledge and truth are important to Christians,Postmodernists greet these with skepticism, relativism, nihilismand anti-realism.”

Cabal quoted Colossians 2: 6-8 (NIV) as the biblical reasoningbehind the theme of the workshop. “So then, just as you receivedChrist Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up inhim, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowingwith thankfulness. See to it that no one takes you captive throughhollow and deceptive philosophy, that depends on human traditionand the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ.”

‘ConfrontingPostmodernism:Interfaith EvangelismWorkshop’ held atMidwestern Seminary

story continued on page 11

by T. Patrick Hudson

Achallenge to live a life of integrity by one of the school’strustees highlighted Midwestern Baptist TheologicalSeminary’s convocation and marked the beginning of the

fall semester on Aug. 25. The school also celebrated twomilestones in dedicating a new family housing complex and alibrary devoted to the study of cults and other faith movements.

Dr. Harold Rawlings, director of The Rawlings Foundationand a former pastor, encouraged the packed chapel that they mustbe purposeful in life.

“To be successful in life, we must have a purpose,” Rawlingssaid. “When we have integrity as our purpose, it enables us to besuccessful and to avoid sin and temptation. We should also have apurpose as parents – teaching our children the Word of God. I’lltell you, it isn’t what you leave for your children, but what youleave in them that matters.”

Using Daniel 6: 1-17, Rawlings shared three lessons thatstudents, faculty and staff could take with them at the beginning ofthe new semester. He urged everyone to “Dare to be a Daniel”because of Daniel’s excellence in being trustworthy, uncorrupt andunwavering about his belief in God.

Rawlings commented that if we are living a life of integrity itwill be apparent to others. “Our integrity shows,” he said. “If we’reliving our life with integrity, it will be visible to those around us.They will notice that we’re doing things the right way, and our goalis to influence them to do the same.”

He continued his line of thought by saying people of integrityknow the importance of prayer in their lives. In being steeped inprayer, Rawlings acknowledged that we will maintain a closerelationship with God, and it will keep us from stumbling intoareas of temptation.

Rawlings wrapped up his challenge by saying, “Integrityimpacts the world around us whether it’s in our homes, at church,in our community or in the classroom. If you do what you say,you’ll become a person of influence. That’s what we need most inour world today – people influencing others for Christ.”

Another highlight of the service was the special musicalpresentation by Huntley Brown, pianist for the Ruth Graham andFriends Ministries. A native of Jamaica, Brown grew up watchinghis brothers practice on the piano, and then taught himself to playsince his parents couldn’t afford to send him for lessons. Displayinga flamboyant, piano-shaking style, Brown played the processional,recessional and a special arrangement of “How Great Thou Art”that brought the crowded auditorium to its feet.

Following the service, MBTS officials and guests dedicated tworecently-completed areas of campus with ribbon cuttingceremonies.

Dr. R. Philip Roberts, MBTS President and his wife, Anja, Dr.Harold Rawlings, and Dr. Herbert Rawlings and his wife, Pat,dedicated the 16 newly constructed campus apartments withprayer and a ribbon cutting.

“Words cannot express our appreciation to the Rawlingsfamily for their generosity and faithful support of Midwestern,”Roberts said. “In naming the housing complex area ‘RawlingsCourt,’ it will be a constant reminder of the sacrifice andgraciousness this family has shown to the Midwestern family.”

The housing construction project began in fall 2008, andprovides 2-, 3-, and 4-bedroom apartments for seminary studentsand their families.

The second ceremony of the morning officially opened theRawlings Interfaith Evangelism Collection, a library of literaturepurchased from the Watchman Fellowship’s Birmingham, Ala.,office that is dedicated to the study of cults and other faith groupswho need to hear the message of Jesus Christ. In addition to theRoberts and Rawlings families, the Rev. James Walker, president ofthe Watchman Fellowship, cut the ribbon to mark thecommencement of the resource for seminary use.

“This library will provide the resources that seminary studentsneed to earnestly contend for the faith against cults, the occult,new religious movements and in debating controversial doctrinesand practices in the world today,” Walker said. “The goal inproviding this material is to enable students to have the toolsnecessary to build a bridge of relationship with relatives, friendsand others involved with other religious movements. We pray thatthe result of these relationships will be an ability to share our faithin Jesus Christ in a true and positive way.”

The Rawlings Interfaith Evangelism Collection is housed inthe Koehn & Myers Center for Worldwide Evangelism onMidwestern’s Kansas City campus.

For more information about Huntley Brown’s ministry or toschedule him for an event, go to http://huntleybrown.org, and tofind out more about the Watchman Fellowship go towww.watchman.org. MW

Ceremonies mark dedication of RawlingsCourt & Interfaith Evangelism Collection


MIDWESTERN NEWSby T. Patrick Hudson

(Left to right) Dr. HerbertRawlings, Pat Rawlings,Dr. Harold Rawlings andDr. Phil Roberts, MBTSPresident, dedicate thesign post and plaqueassociated with the

Rawlings Court apartmentcomplex dedication on

Aug. 25, 2009.

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary’s Board ofTrustees affirmed a motion Oct. 19 to moveforward with the building of a new 1,000-seat

chapel complex on campus.“Following months of prayer, fact-finding and discussions

on how to best proceed with the project, we presented ourfindings to the board of trustees,” said Dr. R. Philip Roberts,MBTS president. “Thanks to our trustees’ affirmation, thisvision God has placed in our hearts will now become areality.”

The Midwestern Seminary president said the project,which will also include a welcome center, classroom spaceand corridors connecting the current administration andTrustees Classroom buildings, will afford an opportunity forMidwestern to help encourage further seminary growth andto meet current needs.

Roberts noted that building the complex will alleviatecrowded chapel services by adding seating capacity. He alsosaid there will be facilities in place that enable MBTS to host

conferences and workshops that in the past could havereached more people if there had been adequate space. Thefinal roadblock he discussed was that the current library ishoused in three locations around campus.

“By building the new chapel, our library would then bereturned to its intended location under one roof,” Robertsexplained. “We can increase the number of volumes forstudent use, and also properly showcase our SpurgeonCollection and Morton-Seats archaeology exhibit. We praythat the ultimate result of this expansion will be an increasein the students who desire to come to Midwestern for theirtheological education.”

The administration also announced that the school willjoin hands with Baptist Builders for Christ, an organizationbased in Birmingham, Ala., that networks volunteer buildersto assist in church construction projects across the UnitedStates. The volunteer efforts are estimated to save asignificant amount of the overall cost of the undertaking.

In a presentation to the trustees given by Lawrence


CHAPEL FEATURE

Trustees affirm motion toconstruct new chapel complex



Corley, director of BFC, he outlined the process of how hisorganization operates, but he stressed his team isn’t involvedto just construct a building or save groups money.

“We strive to work together with churches that have aneed, and we have networks of church entities who volunteertheir time, usually for a week a year, on projects just like thisone,” Corley said. “However, our organization doesn’t existjust to save your group money, we’re here to help churcheswin people for Jesus Christ. We believe that assisting MBTSwill only multiply churches to win even more people to JesusChrist.”

It is estimated that the volunteer need for the nearly40,000 square foot chapel complex will be around 1,500people, and Corley said that “after just a week and nopublicity for the project, we already have 400 people lined upto come to Kansas City, but we will need more.”

Roberts closed the discussion about the new chapel byemphasizing three points. “We need your prayer daily forthis project,” he said. “To make all this happen will certainlybe an answer to prayer. We also ask you to think about yourchurch, your friends and anyone else who may desire to

volunteer their time. We can’t have too many volunteers, andlet’s all get in on the blessing of helping Midwestern completethis project. Finally, in the area of finances, our goal is 100percent support from our trustees, faculty and staff. Thisshows others outside our organization that we’re trulycommitted to what the Lord has called us to do, and we’llneed yet further assistance so this project will be debt free.”

In other action taken by the trustees during the meeting,Dr. Ronald Huggins was elected Associate Professor of NewTestament and Greek; Dr. David McAlpin was electedAssociate Professor of Biblical Interpretation; and Dr. RodneyHarrison was promoted to Associate Professor of ChristianEducation. In other academic-related motions, the groupapproved the development of a 100 percent online master’sdegree.

From motions raised by the Business ServicesCommittee, the trustees approved spending $100,000 oncampus housing remodels, $50,000 for informationtechnology improvements and $150,000 for deferredmaintenance. MW

T. Patrick Hudson is Director of Communications at MBTS.

by Charis Buckland

Builders for Christ to join MBTS on chapel project

CHAPEL NEWS

Throughout the planning and organizing process for one ofthe largest building projects in school history, a key focalpoint for Midwestern’s leadership team has been enlisting

volunteers to make the project more affordable. Coordinating more than 1,500 people to assist with the

Chapel at Midwestern endeavor is a monumental task, but Buildersfor Christ, a construction ministry group from Birmingham, Ala., isjoining hands with MBTS to make this task more manageable.

“Builders for Christ is a network of volunteer teams that assistsSouthern Baptists with constructing churches in locations thatappear to be in significant need of evangelism,” said LawrenceCorley, who founded BFC in 1981. “I was able to assist on aconstruction mission trip, and it was then I realized that volunteerconstruction projects are often not well-organized or well-financed.”

Corley also observed that sometimes the architects did notunderstand the long-term needs of churches. In many instances,this lack of planning for the future prohibited church growth andadequate space according to the church’s needs.

“We felt that having a team of volunteers to fully plan aproject, ensure adequate finances, and understand the needs of achurch would result in an efficiently produced, fully-completedproject,” he said. “By doing this, we could meet our ultimategoal – reaching people for the Lord.”

In 1991, the Builders for Christ network had grown at such arate that the group was able to work on two projects annually. By2005, volunteerism had increased enough to add another team, andBFC has taken on three construction missions per year ever since.

“Midwestern has a rich history of enlisting volunteer supportfor various campus needs,” said Dr. Phil Roberts, MBTS President.“We’ve encouraged volunteerism to create bonds with otherSouthern Baptist entities and also as a means of encouraging oneanother. Further, it sets an example for our students, so they’lllearn the value of having volunteers accomplish the numerousprojects they’ll encounter during their ministries.

“There is no question, that the union with Builders for Christis God-called. We’re thrilled to team up with them and see whatthe Lord has in store over the next year,” the president added.

Project services that Builders for Christ provides begin with

analytical and organizational advice to the ministry group they willbe assisting. Financial planning, capital stewardship campaignconsultation, site analysis, master planning consultation,architectural design, construction systems advice, and materialestimation are also included in the process.

Before BFC arrives on site, the host ministry group providesthe land, excavation and slab work. They also take on the costs ofbuilding materials, equipment, labor, design, and projectdevelopment. Once the BFC construction teams arrive on thescene, they provide the ministry group with expertise ranging fromwood framing and electrical services to plumbing rough-ins, HVACductwork and piping, roofing, and finish work.

“Our volunteers come from all over the country, and theyprovide their own travel, lodging and food,” BFC’s leader said.“What’s most special is that these individuals give of their vacationtime to reach people for Christ through this construction ministry.When people see this building going up so rapidly, they’re intriguedand start asking questions. It creates quite a stir in the community.”

Since its first project in 1981, Builders for Christ hascompleted 53 churches that have been concentrated in NewEngland and in the Midwest. Presently, the group organizes about1,600 volunteers from the 82 churches who partner with BFC toaccomplish their planned construction missions.

“To show the scope of the challenge we face with theMidwestern chapel project, we’re looking to enlist more than 1,500volunteers to come to Kansas City so we can accomplish what Godhas called us to do,” Roberts said. “Until now, Builders for Christhas organized no more than 2,000 people for their three annualprojects combined. So this is a God-sized task, and we’reconfident He will provide all the resources necessary to make thischapel a reality.”

According to its leaders, Builders for Christ exists to proclaimthe message of His Kingdom. Each member of the organizationshares a concern for unbelievers and is committed to reachingpeople for the Lord through their construction ministry. BFCparticipants and members desire that the facilities they build willbe used as tools for God’s ministries for many years to come.

“Our ultimate job, wherever we go, is to ensure that those inneed of salvation are going to heaven with us,”Corley added. “If we can also put up a buildingthat will last 100-200 years that will be pretty neattoo.”

This year, in addition to the Chapel atMidwestern, Builders for Christ will assist incompleting a project for First Baptist Church inIronton, Ohio. They will also construct projectsfor Grace Baptist in Tyrone, Penn., and FirstBaptist Church in Manteno, Ill. MW

Charis Buckland is a Communications Officeassistant at MBTS.

BFC’s network of volunteers will provide expertguidance to MBTS while assisting in theconstruction of the new Chapel at Midwestern.The ground work for the project will begin in earlyspring, and the BFC volunteers begin work onMay 26.




Midwestern seeks volunteers for chapel construction

CHAPEL NEWS

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary leaders arein the midst of planning the construction of a newchapel complex – one of the largest projects in

MBTS history encompassing a welcome center, increasing chapelcapacity to more than 1,000 seats and creating additionalclassroom space.

An integral aspect of the planning phase includes enlisting alarge volunteer effort – more than 1,500 people – to offsetconstruction costs of the 40,000-square-foot facility approved byMBTS trustees in October.

Dr. R. Philip Roberts, MBTS President, noted, “It doesn’tmatter what level of skill is possessed, we’re looking forchurches and individuals from across the Southern BaptistConvention who are willing to commit their time and energyinto making this project a reality.”

Another key volunteer element is Builders for Christ, anetwork of volunteer teams who assist Southern Baptists withbuilding churches in locations that appear to be in significantneed of evangelism.

“Through our network of construction missionaries,” BFCcoordinator Lawrence Corley said, “we will provide a number ofskilled laborers to lead volunteers from all walks of life inaccomplishing the task of building this new chapel complex atMBTS. We don’t require anyone to possess a particular skill set,but we seek everyday folks who are willing to sacrifice a week oftheir life to make a difference in God’s Kingdom.”

Builders for Christ, which has constructed more than 50churches since 1981, organizes three teams annually to work onchurch construction projects. Areas of expertise that BFCprovides include wood framing, electrical conduits, wiring,electrical service and fixtures, plumbing rough-ins, HVACductwork and piping, roofing, drywall installation, cabinetwork,finish carpentry, door and hardware installation, brick veneermasonry, and painting.

In recent years about 1,600 volunteers from more than 100churches have networked together through the organization,

which is based in Birmingham, Ala.“Most of the volunteers for this project will network with

other church groups,” Corley said, aiming for more than 60church teams from 25 states to come to Kansas City for the“church raising.” Volunteers pay for their travel, lodging andfood, and they give of their vacation time to expand God’sKingdom. “Each team is merged into a very organized process toinsure that their work is meaningful and productive,” Corleysaid. “Over the years, God has abundantly supplied the workersfor our efforts, but with a project of this magnitude, other teamsare very much needed for us to accomplish His work atMidwestern.”

The groundwork and foundation preparation phase for thechapel project begins in early 2010, with the BFC volunteerconstruction effort slated from May 26 through Labor Day.

“As churches, families and friends around the country plantheir mission efforts for the upcoming year,” Roberts said, “we askthem to prayerfully consider joining Midwestern in making aneternal, world-changing difference through this chapel project.Above everything else, we covet your prayers. To complete thisGod-sized task will be a true testimony to the power of prayer.Thirdly, in the area of finances, we’ll need further assistance so wecan complete this project and be debt-free.”

Outlining the need for a new chapel complex, Roberts said,“By building the complex we will alleviate crowded chapelservices, be able to host much larger conferences, workshopsand graduation ceremonies. It will also allow further seminarygrowth by freeing up the space in our current chapel for libraryexpansion. Thus, we will be able to consolidate our library intoone facility and notably increase the number of volumes.

“Greater efficiency and effectiveness in training students forthe completion of the Great Commission is our goal in thisundertaking,” Roberts said. “We are praying for the Lord tomove among His people to see this chapel built for the glory ofGod.” MW

Two construction missionariesmeasure and cut 2x4 studs on achurch project. Builders forChrist, a construction ministrygroup from Birmingham, Ala.,enlists approximately 1,600volunteers for three constructionendeavors annually.

MIDWESTERN NEWS

Truth for a Postmodern EraBecause a main trait of Postmodern thought is that truth is

relative to an individual, Lemke set out theses that Christians coulduse to strengthen their preparedness in witnessing situations.

“The issue here isn’t that truth can’t be found,” Lemke said.“It’s that Postmodernists can’t handle the truth that’s presented tothem. Truth is true because it doesn’t change with the wind.”

Lemke went on to postulate 11 theories that he called criticalto a realist approach. He said that truth and reality are revealed,not created as a product of human thought. “Truth is revealed tous by God through Scripture and nature. We didn’t create them.”

He also expressed that truth is objective and absolute, notsubjective or relative. “Truth isn’t a matter of taste, value or style,”Lemke added. “It’s not a matter of one’s comfort with the truth.When a Postmodernist says truth is relative, he or she is stilladmitting a truth that they hold.”

Another aspect of truth that Lemke explained was that truth isknowable; it’s not totally unknowable or merely of one’sperspective. He said that God reveals truth to those who seek it,and when that is the case, it comes from the correct Source. “APostmodern thinker says reality is not knowable – that everythingis derived from perspective and opinion. This would mean that afortune teller’s opinion of a subject is just as accurate as a rocketscientist physicist’s opinion. The fact is, there are many things thatare real that we may not know.”

Lemke wrapped up his discussion saying that truth is basedon firm foundations, not the shifting sands of human opinion.“There is no other foundation that can be laid, than the one laid bythe solid rock, Jesus Christ. All other expressions of how reality ismade known are based on shifting sand. The foundations we trustin, whether through evidence or faith, are where we ultimatelyplace our trust.”

Evangelizing PostmodernsAs the speakers wrapped up their discussions of defining

Postmodernism and defending the meaning of truth, the focusshifted to practical approaches for evangelizing Postmodernists.

Johnston, the Associate Professor of Evangelism atMidwestern, used examples of the Apostle Paul’s evangelizing toshed light on ways to witness to Postmodern thinkers. “Paulpreached the same Gospel to all people, races, and genders,” hesaid. “He didn’t change the message or the method though. Hejust changed the illustrations he used.”

The evangelism professor described that in Acts 13: 7-12,when Paul was sharing the Gospel with the intelligent proconsulSergius Paulus, he ran into a stumbling block. The sorcerer,Elymas, opposed Paul and Barnabas and attempted to turn SergiusPaulus from faith in Christ. At this point, Paul boldly calledjudgment upon Elymas to remove the obstacle to Sergius Paulus’faith. When Sergius Paulus witnessed the miracle of Elymas’blindness, he believed and was awestruck by the teaching aboutthe Lord.

“The Gospel of Christ is not another story, paradigm orworldview,” Johnston said. “It is God’s living and active messagewith power to penetrate and transform the corrupt and depravedhearts and minds of men. Paul gives us excellent examples ofboldly proclaiming the Gospel, and his message produced resultsthat will last for eternity.

“I encourage you that as you minister to the needs ofPostmodern thinkers to learn all you can, but preach Christ alone,as He’s your only power,” Johnston added. “Always be respectful ofthose you’re witnessing to, and don’t fear calling for an immediatedecision. We’re not promised our next breath, so it is imperativefor a decision to be made.”

Cabal outlined other methods of sharing Christ withPostmodernists. He noted that it is important to understandothers’ belief systems. People are powerfully moved by stories.When these stories are believed to be true, they affect people’s lives.He described many people’s need to discover answers to questionssuch as “Where did I come from?” “What’s wrong with life or theworld I live in?” “What’s the solution?” and “Where am I going?”

“In evangelizing to Postmodern thinkers, it’s important tofollow an individual approach,” Cabal said. “We must tailor ourdiscussion after how Jesus spoke to Nicodemus in John 3: 4-21.The focus needs to be on the unsaved soul, not the presenter; andthe sharer should learn to listen carefully and encourage seriousthinking about what is being shared.

“Some other points to note when evangelizing Postmodernistsare to never be ashamed of the Gospel of Christ and that theGospel alone is God’s saving power,” he added. “All of yourdiscussions should attempt to present, clarify and keep the focuson the Gospel. Be sure to recognize the power of false gospels orworldviews. Finally, practice dialogues, not monologues. Youmust attempt to define the unbeliever’s beliefs by asking questionsand making them defend why they think the way they do. Thiswill open the door to them questioning their beliefs and giving youa greater opportunity to win them to Christ.” MW

Dr. Steve Lemke, professor ofPhilosophy and Ethics at NewOrleans Seminary, lectures onthe definition of Postmodernismduring the October 2009,Confronting PostmodernismWorkshop at MBTS.

story continued from page 4



MIDWESTERN NEWS

As the biannual Board of Trustees meeting wrapped upat Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary on Oct.20, a former school president was honored for his

service and a recently renovated building was dedicated.Dr. Mark Coppenger, MBTS president from 1995–1999,

brought a message in chapel from Matthew 3-4 challenging all inattendance with focusing on the importance of knowingScripture and being able to apply it appropriately.

“One of the most important things you do in seminary islearn the Word of God,” Coppenger said. “You must be preparedto quote Scripture at any time and for any circumstance. Youmust know it well because the devil quotes Scripture too. Hetries to use it improperly to create confusion.”

The pastor of Evanston Baptist Church, near theNorthwestern University campus in suburban Chicago, said thatwhen we’re bold with our witnessing that people respond. “Wecan’t shrink away from sharing the reason why we’re the way weare,” he said. “We say, ‘drop your nets and come serve Jesus,’that’s audacious and bold. However, because of this boldnesspeople respond to what we’re saying.”

Coppenger encouraged the group that they are part of ahealing ministry, whether they know it or not. “The tough timeswe face are very minute compared to eternity, and when we winsomeone to Christ, we’re winning them to eternal health,” headded. “People ought to look at our lives and see the signs andwonders Christ has placed in us. This shows them that we servea powerful and wonderful God. Always remember that you’reconnected to a lot of power.”

In concluding, the Southern Baptist Theological SeminaryDistinguished Professor of Apologetics commented on howmany pastors are narrowing themselves in their ministries. Hesaid that many don’t understand what it truly means to be in

ministry, and that, at times, it may mean having to suffer forChrist.

“When we go out and witness to folks, they seem to thinkthat all we’re after is their money,” Coppenger said. “Well, we’renot asking for money, we’re asking for their lives. When peoplefully surrender and commit to Christ, it may even meansuffering to include the giving of their life.

“I urge you, by the example of Christ to be prepared torecite the Scripture and to be prepared to face the suffering forHis glory. Bear it with gladness,” he concluded.

Following his sermon, Coppenger was honored for hisservice to MBTS in a ceremony that unveiled his portrait to behung in the seminary’s library.

“During his tenure at MBTS, Mark Coppenger prepared thegroundwork for many of the things that are coming to fruitionhere today,” said Dr. R. Philip Roberts, MBTS president. “He is adear friend and colleague who cares deeply for this school, andit is a privilege for me to unveil this portrait in tribute to thegreat things he’s done for Midwestern.”

The portrait of Coppenger was painted by StephanieAddington, who is Roberts’ niece and an Assistant Professor ofArt at Truman College in Chicago. She is also a member ofCoppenger’s church in Evanston, Ill.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity to paint this portrait ofMark,” Addington said. “He is truly deserving of this moment,and we’re grateful to honor our dear pastor for the work he’saccomplished in his ministry.”

After the portrait ceremony, the leaders of MBTS and theBoard of Trustees dedicated the recently remodeled classroombuilding with a new name. In March 2008, the trustees pledgedto give and raise half the cost of the renovation project. As aresult, the structure formerly known as the “Faculty and

Classroom Building” will now be called the“Trustee Classroom Building.”

“Having been prospered by God and enabledby His grace and power to complete the renovationof this building, we now dedicate this ‘TrusteeClassroom Building,’” Roberts said. “We’re sothankful for the commitment our trustees made inmaking this project a priority both with theirprayers and financial support. Our students willcertainly benefit from being in an excellentlearning environment, and God will be glorified asthese students go out and fulfill the GreatCommission in their ministries.”

The renovation included technologicalupgrades such as smart boards, remodeledclassrooms, office space, and restroom facilities onthe upper level. Downstairs, the LifeWay CampusStore was expanded by more than twice itsprevious size, and student center improvementswere made. MW

Former MBTS president honored,renovated classroom building dedicated


Dr. Mark Coppenger, MBTS President from 1995–1999, was honored at Midwestern during aportrait dedication ceremony on Oct. 20, 2009. Also pictured is the artist who painted theportrait, Stephanie Addington, an Assistant Professor of Art at Truman College in Chicago anda member of Coppenger’s church in Evanston, Ill.

by Jerry A. Johnson FACULTY COLUMN

Awise man once said, “We shape our buildings, afterthat, our buildings shape us.” The old universities ofEurope, along with their counterparts in America, all

feature a chapel as a centerpiece of their campus. Why? Here,the old idea of “uni-versity” was that all academic disciplineswere united by, and centered upon, one major theme. Thattheme was God. The chapel on the campus stood as a testimonyto God at the center of all things. If this was true of the olduniversity, it should be especially true of our seminary.

A Spiritual NeedOn a spiritual level, this is why our faculty is excited about

the new projected Chapel at Midwestern. The chapel services wehold twice a week are a priority for faculty and students. Weknow the importance of the chapel hour. Studying about God’sWord and world takes place in the classroom; but worshippingGod occurs in the chapel. Every time we gather, it is anexpression of our love and devotion to the Lord Jesus. In themidst of all other buildings and academic programs of theseminary, the new Chapel at Midwestern will stand as atestimony to our focus on the priority of God: knowing Him,loving Him, and worshipping Him.

Midwestern alumni may know that MBTS has never had a“proper” chapel. The current chapel meets in what was originallyintended to be another wing of the library. The current chapelleaves no architectural signature on the campus and makes nostatement. While we have had some great chapel services thereand God has certainly done great things in that place – it is timeto move to the next level. It is time to say to the Midwesternfamily and to the community around us, this school is aboutGod and you can see it as you drive by campus.

A Practical NeedThe practical need for a new chapel is also great. While our

current chapel has been functional, it will not be much longer.Under Dr. Phil Roberts’ leadership, Midwestern’s student bodyhas doubled in size. This past semester the current chapel wasfilled to capacity throughout the term, and some services werestanding room only.

As new students matriculate and we mark the occasion withopening convocation each semester, it is important to do so witha worship service on campus where we can meet together andcommit ourselves corporately to God. We will not be able to dothis without more room. The new Chapel at Midwestern willgive us this room.

As graduating students celebrate the victory with family andfriends, it is important that we send them out from our campus,not some remote location. For many years, we have not beenable to hold graduation services on campus because our currentchapel is too small. The new Chapel at Midwestern will give usenough space.

Also, as we host more and more academic conferences atMidwestern, we simply find there is no place on the campuslarge enough to hold the crowds. The new Chapel at Midwesternwill give us the capacity for large meetings about popular topicslike Islam or the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Academically, the new Chapel at Midwestern makes sense aswell. We need more library space for books, including theSpurgeon Collection. By leaving the current chapel and foyer,which is structurally part of the original library complex, we willmake those spaces available for much-needed library use.

Now is the time to meet the practical need for more space.Now is the time to send a message that worshipping God is apriority at Midwestern. Now is the time to build the Chapel atMidwestern! Now is the time to pray, give and volunteer to helpwith this project. May God receive all the glory when it is done. MW

Dr. Jerry A. Johnson is Dean & Vice President of AcademicDevelopment, and a professor of Ethics & Theology at MBTS.


The Chapel at Midwestern stands to fulfill seminary’s spiritual, practical needs


by D.J. Castilleja

FACULTY PROFILE

This spring, Dr. Ronald Huggins will bring forth hisexpertise as a speaker at the Dead Sea ScrollsConference to be hosted by Midwestern. Huggins said

one of his greatest interests is examining the questions, “whatreally is the Gospel?” and “is the Gospel we preach about, reallythe Gospel?”

Huggins began his tenure at Midwestern Baptist TheologicalSeminary as an Associate Professor of New Testament and Greekin January 2009, at the invitation of Dr. Phil Roberts, MBTSPresident. It was through a mutual friend, Sandra Tanner, thatHuggins and Roberts first became associated.

He mentioned that his previous teaching and educationexperience have prepared him well for the classroom at MBTS. “Ihave always strived to prepare students to be faithful and carefulinterpreters of the Word of God,” Huggins said. “It is my hopethat they will become people who will obey the Bible even ifnobody else does, and even when it hurts.”

Prior to Midwestern, Huggins served as adjunct professor ofHistory and Bible at the Moody Bible Institute in Spokane,Wash., and shortly thereafter he took a position as professor ofHistorical and Theological Studies at Salt Lake TheologicalSeminary. Also during his career in education, Huggins taughtin Christian academies in Washington and Idaho.

Additionally, he is an executive board member for theInstitute of Religious Research and a member of the Society ofBiblical Literature and the Evangelical Theological Society.

Originally from Moscow, Idaho, Huggins has lived in manyplaces including Guatemala, Butte, Mont., Clarkson, Wash., andMountain Home, Idaho. He has four grown daughters, Sarah,Anna, Nollie, and Mary. He is a proud grandfather of fivegrandchildren with a sixth on the way, and he has been marriedto his wife, Marguerite, for 29 years.

Huggins began his education at the University of Idahowhere he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting. He thenreceived a Master’s of Christian Studies with an emphasis inBiblical Studies and New Testament from Regent College inVancouver, British Columbia, before earning his doctorate fromWycliffe College at the University of Toronto.

According to Huggins, the best part about being atMidwestern is, “the central focus on the Gospel of Jesus Christ;the excellent faculty, who are both highly qualified in their fieldsand dear brothers and sisters in Christ; and the students whoreally want to get into the Word of God and live it.”

Huggins finds Hebrews 13: 12-14 (ESV) to be a meaningfulpassage of Scripture to him. It says, “So, Jesus also sufferedoutside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his ownblood. Therefore, let us go to him outside the camp and bear thereproach he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but weseek the city that is to come.”

“In order to become a part of the church, we must first exitour own cities – the place where we have built up for ourselvesa refuge of security and mutual credibility in a community,”Huggins said. “We must go outside the city and meet Christthere alone embracing his shame, accepting his salvation, andbecoming a part of the Spiritually reborn, putting everythingelse aside: ‘We have here no lasting city.’”

Huggins went on to explain, “It is quite possible to hidefrom Jesus even in our church community. When we do this,we are not really members of the true Church, which is the bodyof Christ. We are fakes and pretenders trying to store up forourselves, in the name of Christ, treasures for ourselves onEarth. It is only when we become members of Christ that weare truly joined to his Church. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, ‘Ourcommunity with one another consists solely in what Christ hasdone for both of us.’ Any other basis for community, evenChristian community, is inadequate and idolatrous.”

You can hear Huggins this spring at the Dead Sea ScrollsConference as one of the distinguished presenters. This year’sconference will focus on the preservation of Biblical text. He saidthat he is excited about being a featured speaker for the conference.He added that he is thrilled with the great scholars who will be apart of the conference including Dr. Craig Evans, from AcadiaUniversity and Dr. Paul Foster, from the University of Edinburgh.

The Dead Sea Scrolls Conference will be held April 1–3, oncampus. MW

D.J. Castilleja is a Communications Office assistant at MBTS.

Huggins encouragesstudents to be faithfuland careful interpretersof the Word

Huggins encouragesstudents to be faithfuland careful interpretersof the Word

Dr. Ronald Huggins, Associate Professor of New Testamentand Greek at Midwestern, speaks to chapel attendees duringan April 2009 service.


NEWS IN BRIEF

Midwestern staff chooses coffee blend for schoolMembers of the

faculty and staff recentlymade a visit to TheRoasterie, in Kansas City,to assist in developing acustom blend of coffeefor Midwestern. Dr.Rodney Harrison, Dr.Thor Madsen, Dr. BlakeHearson and Vine’s Cafécoordinator, Natalie Hill,made the visit on Oct.28, 2009.

After samplingdozens of coffees brewedfrom beans and roastsfrom around the world,the team settled upon a

custom blend that was 50% Italian roast Sumatra beans and 50%medium roast Ethiopian beans. Each team member said thisparticular combination was found to have a full-bodied tastewith a hint of sweetness that they enjoyed.

“Contrary to popular thinking, a darker roast coffee is lesslikely to give coffee drinkers the jitters,” Harrison said. “TheMidwestern Blend is perfect with a meal or after dinner, withjust enough caffeine to keep one from falling asleep during classor study.”

A one-pound bag of the Midwestern Blend can bepurchased at the Vine’s Café for $9.50. For more details, contactHill at (816) 414-3798.

Upcoming events at MBTSThroughout the spring semester, Midwestern is offering a

varied and exciting lineup of conferences and workshops thatare available to everyone. For more information, please see theads located throughout the magazine or visit www.mbts.edu.MBTS officials encourage you to mark your calendar and planon attending.

Feb. 2 – Spring ConvocationMarch 9 - 10 – International Mission Board WeekMarch 26 - 27 – Prayer Workshop April 1 - 3 – Dead Sea Scrolls Conference April 9 - 10 – Hester Women’s Conference April 13 – C.H. Spurgeon WorkshopMay 22 – Commencement

What’s new on the website? This past fall, Midwestern unveiled a new design for its

website, www.mbts.edu. Here are a few features that visitors mayfind beneficial:

Homepage – On the homepage, readers can find the mostcurrent news and information regarding events happening oncampus. This information is updated regularly to keep visitors“in the loop.” From the homepage, the MBTS employment pagecan also be accessed for those interested in searching for themost recent job opportunities here. Also readers can keep aneye on the banners for announcements of upcoming campus-wide events. In the case of inclement weather in the area, the

banners will notify students and staff about class and businessdelays or cancellations.

Admissions > Apply Online – For those interested inbecoming a student at MBTS, this feature on the new websiteaffords the ability for anyone to apply directly online for bothgraduate and undergraduate admissions.

Admissions > Online & Extension Courses – On thispage, visitors can get the most current schedules and classlistings for our online and extension site courses. There is alsoinformation on how to enroll.

Academics – In the academics area of the website, you canfind the most current information on class schedules, degreeoutlines, tuition and fees and the MBTS Library databases,tutorials and information.

Student Life – An excellent feature here is in the “MinistryPlacement and Referral” link under the Student Life section ofthe website. On this page, readers will find a form for churchesto complete that notifies students here of ministry opportunities.These career opportunities are then listed in the student portal.

News & Resources – Here visitors will find the most recentMBTS Weekly Updates, feature articles, press releases andarchives of the Midwestern Magazine – all produced by theMBTS Communications Office staff.

News & Resources > Chapel Information – On this page,the most recent schedule of presenters for the weekly chapelservices is available. Have you missed a “Spire” bulletin? There isalso a list of archived “Spire” bulletins in PDF format for readers toreview and catch up on important MBTS events and details.

Alumni & Friends – It is important to the Midwesternadministration and staff to stay up-to-date on the latest news of ouralumni and friends. Here alumni will find a form where they cankeep the Institutional Advancement Office informed about what isnew in your life and career. This information may be featured in

future editions ofthe MidwesternMagazine! Also onthis page is a linkfor any visitor tocontributefinancially online toassist MBTS inaccomplishing itsmission of“educating God-called men andwomen to be andmake disciples ofJesus Christ.”

Updating student information through the portalThe Midwestern IT Office staff has been hard at work

making it possible for students to update their personalinformation through the student portal. This information isused by the Midwestern administration and faculty tocommunicate with its students and to update the studentdirectory. Students are encouraged to keep their informationup-to-date, as this will assist the MBTS staff in accomplishingtheir daily tasks.


Brian Smith (M.Div. ’99, M.A.C.E. ’01) is currently serving asDirector of Discipleship at Community Harvest, a church plantin Lincoln, Neb. He also serves as a graduate teaching assistantin the Department of Classics and Religious Studies at theUniversity of Nebraska. Following his graduation, in 2001,Smith started a business that provided business services tochurches. He has also served on various mission teams to Berlinand Brazil. He married Danielle Motta of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,in 2007, and is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree inActuarial Science.

Bob Mills (M.Div. ’74, D.Min. ’80) was elected as executivedirector of the Kansas-Nebraska Convention and assumed theposition Jan. 1. Mills has also served Midwestern as an adjunctprofessor and as a past president of the MBTS AlumniAssociation. He and his wife, Lynne, have been married for 25years, and they have two grown daughters and a son.

Lester Eugene Barker (Oct. 8, 1927 – Dec. 27, 2009) aformer student at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary,recently passed away in Overland Park, Kan. Barker served formore than 50 years as a Southern Baptist pastor in Texas,Oklahoma, Arkansas and Kansas. In World War II, he served asa gunner aboard the U.S.S. Massachusetts. He was the youngestand last of his family of eight siblings to pass away. Barker issurvived by his wife of 61 years, Barbara, two sons and theirfamilies.

Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminaryestablishes California Alumni Association

Fifteen alumni were present as Midwestern BaptistTheological Seminary formed a California Chapter of the MBTSAlumni Association. TheNov. 9, 2009, meeting washeld at Magnolia AvenueBaptist Church in Riverside,Calif., coinciding with theCalifornia Southern BaptistConvention’s annual meeting.

Dr. Rodney Harrison,Vice President of InstitutionalEffectiveness and Director ofDoctoral Studies atMidwestern, presented areport on recentdevelopments taking place onthe MBTS campus. Harrison,who was instrumental in theformation of the CaliforniaAlumni Chapter, envisionsthe new organization playingan important role as arepresentative for Midwesternon the west coast as well as afriend in raising funds for

projects on campus. The alumni association will also representMidwestern as an affordable alternative to a college-levelseminary education as well as promote the non-residentialdoctoral programs taking place at MBTS.

“There are currently 38 million people in the great state ofCalifornia, and that means there is only one Southern BaptistChurch for every 18,095 people. We need many church plantsto reach the masses,” said newly elected president of the alumniassociation, Dr. Dale Lacquement. “Our alumni association hasthe goal of helping additional alums to come as church plantersinto this great and growing mission field.”

Lacquement attended Midwestern from 1960-63, receivinghis master’s degree before earning his Doctor of Ministry in1980. He now serves as pastor of Faith Southern Baptist Churchin Moreno Valley, Calif.

Elected as vice president of the new association was Dr.Mark Wilson, a recent Midwestern Doctor of Ministry graduate.He currently serves as Senior Pastor at Sierra Baptist Church inVisalia, Calif. Wilson believes that as the new associationorganizes and grows, it will generate a stronger connectionbetween past students and the present seminary.

Each attendee of the inaugural meeting received a copy ofthe New American Standard Bible presented by the LockmanFoundation and a Midwestern coffee mug with the seminary’sown blend of roasted coffee provided by the InstitutionalAdvancement office.

The California Alumni Association will hold meetingsannually during the California Southern Baptist Convention. MW

Members of the new MBTS California Alumni Association enjoy a meal and fellowship at the Nov. 9, 2009,inaugural meeting in Riverside, Calif. From left to right are, Mark Wilson, Valarie Wilson, Don Conley,Byron Harrison and Mary Harrison. In all, 15 alumni attended the meeting.

ALUMNI NEWS

Keeping in touch

Let us hear from you. Send updated information on your currentministry to [email protected] or go online to mbts.edu andclick on Alumni and Friends, Keeping in Touch.

Unless the LORD builds the house, theylabor in vain who build it; Unless theLord guards the city, The watchman stays

awake in vain.” Psalm 127:1 (NASB)One can only imagine the beauty and splendor of

Solomon’s Temple. Many details are provided inScripture regarding the process of construction. Davidsaid, “the house to be built for the Lord must beexceedingly magnificent, famous and gloriousthroughout all countries.” It was in David’s heart tobuild a beautiful temple for the Lord, but theconstruction of this house of worship would not beDavid’s task. The responsibility would be Solomon’s tocomplete.

David, however, played a significant role in thepreparation for the construction. Careful attentionwas given to all the details, and David began in earnestto obtain in advance the necessary building materialsfor this project. 1 Chronicles 22: 3-4 (NKJV) recordsthat, “David prepared iron in abundance for the nailsof the doors of the gates and for the joints, and bronzein abundance beyond measure, and cedar trees inabundance. . .”

After David’s death, Solomon issued orders for thetemple construction to begin, and according to 2Chronicles 2:2 (NKJV), “Solomon selected seventythousand men to bear burdens, eighty thousand toquarry stone in the mountains, and three thousand sixhundred to oversee them.” The building of the firstTemple was a monumental task. Construction beganin the fourth year of Solomon’s reign and took sevenyears, and when the temple was completed it wasunrivaled in splendor. As I reread the biblical accountof the construction of the first Temple, I was onceagain awestruck at the magnitude of the task, thecareful attention to details and plans, and the sacrificein order to see the project to completion.

For some time now, it has been in our president’sheart and our desire to build a new chapel forMidwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. The needhas been apparent, and the limited space has made itdifficult to have the kind of events and worshipexperiences that will accommodate our growingstudent body. After much prayer and preparation, we

are moving forward with plans to construct a new1,000-seat chapel. The new chapel complex atMidwestern will include a welcome center, along withenclosed walkways, conference facilities, andadditional classrooms. We believe that oncecompleted, this chapel will present a great testimonyto the name of the Lord our God.

Enthusiasm and support for this project has beenincredible. Thanks to the involvement of Builders forChrist, churches, state conventions, and othervolunteer groups, the cost of this project will besignificantly reduced. Others have come forward toprovide materials, services, and resources so thisproject might become a reality. It is an amazingtestimony for the Lord when so many of His peoplecome together with a singleness of purpose. It is ourearnest hope that this process will be a great testimonyto our community of God’s goodness and gracedemonstrated by His people working together.

You may want to know, “How can I help?” First,we need your continual prayer support to undergirdus as we move forward with this project. We areworking on a critical timeframe, and the logistics arevery important. Secondly, we need volunteers. Youand/or your church may be able to assist us withvolunteers to take part in this project. Teams from allover the United States are signing up to participate.You can be a part of this special project. For moreinformation, please contact us at (816) 414-3701.Finally, we would ask that you give sacrificially towardthis project. It is our desire to complete this project –debt free. With your help and with the help of manyfriends, we believe that this is possible. Thank you forprayerfully considering how you can partner with usin this strategically important endeavor, as we seek toserve the church by biblically educating God-calledmen and women to be and make disciples for JesusChrist.

In His Name,

Anthony W. AllenSenior Vice President

for Administration(816) [email protected]

Come let us build

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