This is the sixth post of a seven-part series running each Friday. Tom Schreiner serves as James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and associate dean of Scripture and interpretation at Southern Seminary and as preaching pastor of Clifton Baptist Church in Louisville. Towers also featured a profile of Schreiner in the Aug. 31, 2009, issue of Towers.
First position/length: An associate position in Diamond Bar, Calif. Three years.
Early mistakes /lessons: I can’t recall anything dramatic happening. I was introduced early to conflict between the preaching pastor and one of the elders. It was a sensitive and difficult situation since the elder did not like the pastor’s preaching.
Words of wisdom. Remember first of all that you are a servant of Jesus Christ and the Scriptures. One of the greatest temptations is to please people more than God. Second, if you have a passion for the glory of God and for the proclamation of the word, be patient. It takes time for a church to change. Love the people where they are. Pray for them. Teach them. But make sure that they know that you love them. Plan to stay for the long term.