In the sudden passing this past Tuesday of Adrian Rogers, three time president of the Southern Baptist Convention and long time pastor of the 28,000 member Bellevue Baptist Church of Memphis, America has lost one of its premier preachers.
While having never seen or met Rogers personally, one could little follow contemporary church related concerns without being aware of his ministry and role in opposing the inroads of liberalism into evangelical circles - particularly in terms of the denomination to which he belonged. Along with a great many others, we found his preaching both exceptional and inspiring. In fact, his was one of the more prominent ministries for which I could usually find time to listen.
One brief story: Some years ago we were acquainted with a young minister in his first pastorate. As a Midwestern mission endeavor, it was a difficult charge in more ways than one. On occasion another pastor and myself would have coffee with the young man - sometimes with a view to providing a degree of uplift. One day he shared that while traveling through the Memphis area he had, presumably on impulse, stopped by Bellevue Baptist Church and asked to speak with Pastor Rogers. To our friend's surprise he was ushered into Roger's office where, in contrast to many prominent figures who would have had little time for an inexperienced unknown from the hinterland, he was warmly welcomed and for a period of time made beneficiary of a notable man's personal interest and gracious sharing. To the young pastor, it represented an event of no small encouragement.
We too were impressed.
Burl Ratzsch
