Elm Street Christian Church
Springfield, Illinois 62702
217-544-5351

• Education: I returned to school as a non traditional student. In 2009, I graduated from Central Christian College of the Bible with a B.S. in Preaching.
• Experience: Before returning to Bible college, I spent a good portion of my younger years working in the church as a "lay" leader. After graduating, I moved to Iowa to work in a small church. After five years, my family and I moved back to familiar territory in Illinois where we are excited about helping our current church grow healthy again. We have some work to do within leadership and within the members, but we have discovered that this is our type of ministry.
• Comment to those looking at my sermons: I do not produce an outline, but instead draw observations from the text. It is my hope that those who hear or read will (1) have a reason to listen and (2) will have a way in which to change.
• Sermon or series that made a difference: I did a message from Jonah and the parable of the unmercial servant about dealing with anger and resentment. Before the service, each person was given a small rock. At the end of message, they were encouraged to drop their rock off at the base of a cross at the front of the sanctuary. There were lots of tears as long time resentments were brought to light and left behind at the mercy of Jesus.
• One of my favorite illustrations: I think object lessons are powerful tools.
• Family: I have a fabulous wife of more than 20 years. She is a precious minister partner. I could not be as effective in my ministry without all she does. I also have 3 daughters who love Jesus and who have been effective evangelists in bringing their friends to the church and ultimately to the Lord. All are gifted artists and singers.
• What my parents think of my sermons: My parents listen to my messages online. I am happy to say that they tell me how proud they are of me.
• What my spouse (really) thinks of my sermons: I should know because I ask. Often times when I think I did lousy, she thinks I did great.
• Best advice given to me about preaching: People want to see us as we really are. I hope to be transparent from the pulpit.
• Books that have had an impact: The Purpose Driven Church, Radical, Praying God's Hearts, Creating Community, Simple Church, Counterfeit Gods, Comeback Churches.
• Hobbies: I am currently working on a novel - a fictional allegory about sin and redemption. It is my hope to use it as a parable with Bible study questions at the end. I also enjoy reading, watching sports (Minnesota Vikings) and playing sports, and XBox 360 games with friends.
• If I could Preach one more time, I would say...: Healing, comfort, assurance, and peace can only be found in the light of Jesus.
• Something funny that happened while preaching: I have a tendency to speak too fast. My tongue will get ahead of my brain and I mispronounce words. In one instance, I was doing a message at Central Christian College of the Bible. I was trying to gently tease the guys who troll the halls with guitars to pick up girls. Guys are always sitting in the lobby of Pelfrey Hall strumming their guitars. I got tongue tied and instead of "Pelfrey Hall", I said "Pelfrey Hell." The students got a kick out of it.
• What I want on my tombstone: He loved Jesus