"Seven Questions With Dr. Thom Rainer"

1. What were some of the key issues that led you to serve in a denominational position?

Simply stated, the move to LifeWay Christian Resources was a total and unexpected move of God in my life. I never desired nor anticipated that it would happen. In hindsight, I am now able to see how God has used many events and experiences in my life to prepare me for this position.


2. What is your greatest passion?

I am passionate about the Southern Baptist Convention becoming evangelistic again. Our denomination is distracted on so many issues. I am passionate about personal evangelism. And I am passionate about my family: my wonderful wife, my three great sons, and the three incredible daughters-in-law that I have received in my life.

3. In your opinion what is the main thing that must happen in the SBC to build momentum for Kingdom growth over the next 5 years.

Leaders, particularly pastors, must set the example for their members in personal evangelism. Also, we must become a people of prayer for awakening and for the conversion of the lost.

4. At the 2006 SBC Convention Southern Baptists made a renewed commitment to the Cooperative Program. Why should a church support the Cooperative Program and how does it impact your area of ministry?

The Cooperative Program is one of the greatest mission mechanisms in the history of the Church. It allows a congregation to be a part of something greater than her own local ministry. LifeWay Christian Resources does not receive any CP funds, but I was blessed to be the beneficiary of the CP when I was a seminary student.

5. If you could give one word of encouragement to every Baptist minister what would it be?

Be a soul winner. Be accountable to someone for your own endeavors as a personal evangelist. And be a man of prayer.

6. What has been the secret to your success as a denominational leader?

I think it far too premature to call my leadership successful.

7. Over the next year what are some things you hope to accomplish and how can my readers and I be praying for you?

Pray that LifeWay Christian Resources will be used of God to be a leading force in the evangelistic renewal of our denomination. And pray that our new entity, LifeWay Research, will be used of God to help us better understand the times and the world we are trying to reach.

Dr. Thom Rainer is President of LifeWay Christian Resources. He is also the co-author of "Simple Church".