Sunday, June 9, 2013

Some Words from Pastor Lee Toms

Back in October of 2008 I shared some thoughts on my blog about Dr. Lee Toms and recalled some of the things I had heard him say when I listened to him speak some years ago. Pastor Toms served at Arcade Baptist Church in Sacramento, California for more than 40 years. At the age of 80, he went home to be with the Lord in May 2007. I am currently reading his book, Mantle of Ministry, and thought I would share some of the words he left behind. For now I will title these sort of posts as being "Some Words from Pastor Lee Toms".

I thought the following excerpt was quite appropriate and a great reminder for those involved in ministry or for anyone who is a member of the body of Christ today.

"In this day, the cause of godlessness and unbelief does not suffer from timidity; it is bold and brazen in its manners and message. A fainthearted Christian message will never compete in such an atmosphere. The day calls for heroics in the heart. We cannot be cowed or intimidated into silence or a soft-pedaling of truth; we must set forth our message simply and strongly. 

This boldness is born of undeviating faith in our message, of unquestionable conviction as to the nature of our calling and inviolate loyalty to the Captain of our salvation, the Master of our service. Some important things are non-negotiable. We can avoid being "bull-dogmatic," but dogmatic we must be. There is a point easily reached where a demand for tolerance leads us into treason to Christ. The apostles and prophets were bold men and paid dearly for it. We can get by more cheaply but not with a good conscience."