I experienced infrequent church attendance and nominal church involvement during my childhood. I was a baptized church member but had never yielded my life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. As a high school student I had valued my life based upon school popularity and academic success, athletic achievement, and a relationship with my girlfriend. As a college freshman I was no longer able to compete athletically, doing poorly academically, and I was estranged from my girlfriend. I was empty and alone and had purposed to take my life after Christmas.

Just before Christmas, I came home from a date under deep conviction regarding my life. My mom asked me what was wrong and I blurted out, "I'm lost." She took an open Bible and assisted me in yielding my life to Jesus Christ as Lord. That very night I experienced hope and peace and forgiveness. A dramatic change in my life began that night and continues to this day.
 
I am a graduate of Southeastern State University (B.A.); The Criswell College (B.A.); and Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary (M.A.). I have served in ministry positions since 1977 including the pastor of Grace Place since 1992.
 
My wife Mellanie and I were high school sweethearts and we married in 1977. We have three children: Michael, Rachael, and Charity.  Michael is married to Amy , Rachael is married to Luke Campbell, and  our third-born is Charity Edminsten.  We have six grandchildren, Cade, Reese, Cooper, Skylar, Rory, and Charlie.
 
I love the outdoors and have a variety of interests including hunting and golf. I greatly value time with my family.
 
I am a pastor/teacher. I love God’s Word and have every confidence in its reliability and its ability.  I am passionate about helping others enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ, and I am passionate about helping them become fully yielded to the Lordship of Jesus and fully devoted to following Jesus. Nothing brings me greater joy than a transformed life!