First Baptist Church
Monroe, Louisiana 71201
318-325-3126

• Education: I have completed a Masters Degree in Christian Education, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. I am presently pursuing a doctorate through New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
• Experience: I am beginning my 18th year of ministry, having served in several churches as Minister of Music, Education, and now as Pastor.
• Comment to those looking at my sermons: I hope that you will take the time to express to me any problems you might find in my presentation. I have tried to be honest and open about the Scripture that is being discussed; and I welcome any comments you may have to help me become a better speaker of God’s Word. (My e-mail is CWest@firstmonroe.com)
• Sermon or series that made a difference: I have finished a series of messages in Ezra, which were extremely fun a nd challenging all at the same time.
• One of my favorite illustrations: When it comes to our attitude toward God in worship, I have often found Christians to be like the woman in the Lexus TV commercial. On Christmas morning, she finds a full-sized luxury SUV in her living room. The vehicle is topped with a gigantic, picture-perfect red ribbon. Turning to her husband with a look of astonishment on her face, all she can think to ask is, "Where did you get a bow that big?!" She has a fully equipped SUV in her living room, yet she is transfixed by an ornament.
• Family: I have a beautiful wife, Robin; and we have two children, Hannah (10), and Micah (8 ).
• What my spouse (really) thinks of my sermons: She thinks that I have finally accepted what God had planned all along.
• Best advice given to me about preaching: Let God speak through your preparation. If you fail to allow Him to speak, then all you are doing is expelling hot air.
• Books that have had an impact: "Desiring God" by John Piper is a book that every minister should read once a year (IMHO), "Being the Body" by Chuck Colson, and "Recovering the Scandal of the Cross" by Green & Baker are all books that have impacted me in my ministry.
• Hobbies: I like to read mystery novels, sci-fi novels, play the guitar, chess, XBox, and wrestle with my kids. When we can find time, Robin and I like to play putt-putt and go to the movies.
• If I could Preach one more time, I would say...: Be authentic to your belief in your actions. If what you believe doesn't change how you act, what you believe is worthless.
• What I want on my tombstone: Sausage, pepperoni and extra cheese!