Published on September 30, 2024, 12:31 am

Breaking news in the Christian world today comes from Bellevue Baptist Church. Lead pastor Steve Gaines announced his decision to step down after receiving a revelation from God, directing him towards the path of an itinerant preacher. This significant shift found its roots 41 years ago when a spiritual message presaged this transition for Gaines and his wife, Donna.

Gaines made this announcement devoid of any links with his health problems. Notably, he reported his diagnosis of kidney cancer in November 2023 which later metastasized to his lungs. Amidst these trials, Gaines has remained a steadfast figure in faith circles. He spoke reassuringly about receiving positive news regarding his health, bringing some relief to concerned members of the congregation.

For many years, Gaines has been an influential voice as senior pastor at Bellevue Baptist Church and even served as former President of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). During this tenure, he navigated challenging times when issues related to race and identity politics were dominant within the convention and wider society.

Despite controversy surrounding his teachings in line with charismatic Word of Faith interpretations and embrace of critical race theory—beliefs not universally accepted within Southern Baptists—he remained committed to serving his congregation and nurturing trust amid skepticism.

Reflecting on the journey so far, Gaines expressed gratitude towards both Bellevue Baptist Church’s members and the Lord’s guidance: “The Lord Jesus Christ clearly called our family to Bellevue and to Memphis 19 years ago,” he reminisced.“Bellevue, you’ve been our family… since 1903; the Lord has had His hand on our church.”

His journey as a pastor spans four churches over 41 years but it appears time has come for a larger horizon—traveling from one church to another as an itinerant preacher. He conveyed equanimity towards this new role. As scripted in the Bible – ‘there’s an appointed time for everything…’ now seems to be the time for Gaines to embrace this broader calling.

Stay tuned for real news and trusted news updates on Steve Gaines’ unfolding journey as he steps into his larger service within the global Christian community.