This is another passing that hits hard. I watched Bellevue Baptist Church near Memphis, TN every week during the last year or two of Pastor Gaines’ ministry there. While I have been disillusioned by a lot of what I have seen among some pastors within the denomination, I saw something different in Steve Gaines. I saw a level of humility I had not seen in a long time. I watched him lead a historic Southern Baptist church to obey the Holy Spirit, even if it meant going off script.
I will never forget the 9:30 service on October 6, 2024 where Pastor Steve gave his testimony after the choir sang “Alabaster Box”, tears flowing down his face. He asked the choir to sing it one more time, and God took over from there, saving souls during the service and moving many forward for prayer. He was not afraid to be unconventional.
Today, the Gaines Family, Bellevue, other churches he served, and many who have been touched by his ministry grieve. The beauty for the believer is we do not grieve as those who have no hope. We know there is a beautiful reunion awaiting us. Please join me in praying for the Gaines family and others who grieve today.
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