Randy Davis
Change is uncomfortable. It means leaving the familiar for which there is a routine that creates repetition, that creates efficiency.
People will often say about an organization when it reaches that point that “It runs like a well-oiled machine.” It’s as if things just run on autopilot.
But routine, repetition, and efficiency can also create comfort and complacency, and complacency is the death knell of churches and organizations like the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board.
Change is uncomfortable, but it is also necessary. President John F. Kennedy has a quote about change that is on point and that I like. “Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.”
Tennessee Baptists have undergone a significant amount of change the past 18 months as we have re-examined and restructured our ministry priorities to align with what we believe to be God’s preferable future for Tennessee Baptists.
Our mission is to multiply gospel leaders who advance God’s kingdom, and we believe the best path to ensuring that every Tennessean hears the gospel is by strengthening and multiplying gospel leaders, evangelistic disciples, and healthy churches.
This bold vision charts a course for even greater impact across our state.
Transitions are never easy, but they are essential for growth. However, change intended to multiply an eternal impact must stand firmly on an immovable foundation. As the TBMB launched into restructuring at the beginning of 2025, Justin Hiens, pastor of Second Baptist Church, Union City, reminded our TBMB staff of immovable essentials as we embrace the work God has called us to do, and that must guide us in the journey ahead. His sermon, “Standing Firm,” based on 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28, offered a timely challenge that I believe is vital for every Tennessee Baptist.
First, we must value our unity. Paul urges the Thessalonians, “Be at peace among yourselves.” This peace is not the absence of disagreement but the presence of a shared mission that transcends our differences.
With over 3,000 churches in our network, unity can feel like a daunting task. Yet, it is the soil in which our collective work for the gospel grows. Our unity in Christ is our greatest strength.
Second, we must be a people of prayer. The command to “pray without ceasing” is a call to constant dependence on God. It is a recognition that our plans, our strategies, and our efforts are ultimately sustained by Him and in submission to Him.
Great revivals are not born from strategic planning meetings but from the earnest, desperate prayers of God’s people. As we navigate the days ahead, how much of our work is developed by prayer, implemented by prayer, and sustained by prayer?
Third, we must value the Holy Spirit. Paul gives a stark warning: “Do not quench the Spirit.”
In our long history of faithful ministry, it can be easy to rely on methods and traditions, forgetting the power that fuels them. A.W. Tozer once noted that if the Holy Spirit were withdrawn from many churches, much of what they do would continue without anyone noticing. They hit autopilot. We must be sensitive to His leading, open to His conviction, and wholly reliant on His power to accomplish what we cannot.
Let’s ensure the glory of God remains evident in all we do.
Finally, we must keep the gospel central. Paul concludes his encouragement by pointing to our ultimate hope: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely… He who calls you is faithful; He will surely do it.” Our work is not about fulfilling initiatives or meeting goals. It is about Jesus Christ.
He is the one who transforms lives, sanctifies His saints, and builds His church. When we grow weary, we must remember that He is faithful. When opposition arises, He is in control. Our mission is not our own — it belongs to Him, and He will surely see it to completion.
Justin’s reminders are still timely. Tennessee Baptists, we must change but let us stand firm on these unshakable truths as we do. Let us pursue unity, commit to prayer, rely on the Holy Spirit, and hold fast to the gospel. Our future together holds so many exciting possibilities.
I can truly say, it is a joy to be with you on this journey. B&R
