Published on September 23, 2024, 12:27 am

With a profound sense of spiritual conviction, Steve Gaines, prominent pastor and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), has announced his decision to step down as the senior pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church. Known for his spirited speeches and passionate advocacy for Christian principles, Gaines is set to transition into his new role as an itinerant preacher. This move, he believes, aligns with God’s plans for him that were revealed 41 years ago.

Despite being diagnosed with kidney cancer in November 2023 — a debilitating illness that had unfavourably migrated to his lungs — Gaines has remained steadfastly faithful. After a recent doctor visit, he confidently shared encouraging news on his health indicating positive progress inspite of this serious condition. Gaines wants to reassure everyone that this career path transition doesn’t stem from his medical circumstance but it is rather a predetermined change instigated by divine guidance.

His tenure at the SBC experienced its high points during an epoch characterized by increasing attention towards racial and identity politics within the church and society at large. Being no exception himself, Gaines adopted Critical Race Theory and identity politics during his time in pastoral leadership and as head of the denomination.

Gaines’s history exhibits some controversial practices such as promoting charismatic Word of Faith teachings like the “name it and claim it” doctrine. He also held healing services that divided opinions within the church community. However, many celebrate him as a significant figure within the Southern Baptist Convention network.

Drawing attention back to his close relationship with Bellevue Baptist Church—here he served faithfully for 19 years—he expressed gratitude saying “Bellevue, you’ve been our family. You’ve prayed for us, cared for us, loved us well.”

He went on further stating how humbled he felt to have contributed to the uninterrupted legacy of service that has marked Bellevue since its inception in 1903: “Can you imagine that? 121 years.” He recognized the privilege of being part of what God is currently unfolding through their church community.

Over his 41-year pastoral career, Gaines has served in four churches and paid tribute to this journey saying “It’s been a great honor”. He believes it was divinely predicted that he would eventually serve as an itinerant preacher. This role involves traversing to various locations bestowing Christian teachings rather than just serving as a resident pastor of one church.

As per his words “The Bible says there’s an appointed time for everything, and there’s a time for every event under heaven.” Gaines’ pivotal decision stands firm on this biblical doctrine acknowledging the timeliness for change despite prevailing adverse health conditions.

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