Phil Nelson

Senior PastorI came to Southern Illinois University back in 1975 as a freshman looking to change my life not knowing what was in store for me. Two weeks into my Freshman year I opened my life up to Jesus Christ and began to pursue the God who had been pursuing me all my life.

I was privileged to be able to sit under the teaching of some great men who helped me understand that the Bible is a living breathing Word from God. It was not too long after sitting under the teaching of these men that I became convinced that God had created me for the purpose of teaching others His truth from the Bible. The Bible is the most powerful piece of literature ever given to man.

As a student I listened to many professors attack the Scriptures and ridicule the Christian faith. I have witnessed many students attempt to stand for their faith in these professor's classrooms but be unable to give a biblical response to their challenges. For the past twenty years I have committed myself to training and equipping men and women to be able to stand up in any environment and give a clear reasoned response to the questions of our culture.

I am overwhelmed with God's grace daily that He would allow me the privilege of leading others to understand and apply the Bible to their lives. And just as overwhelming is the fact that I have a wife who continues to be my wife no matter what. Melanie and I have been married for almost 27 years now and we have six great children who regularly encourage us to live for the glory of Christ.

My prayer for you is that you will discover God's grace in Jesus Christ and live for his glory as long as you have breath. If Lakeland can assist you in that process I would count it a great privilege to partner with our God to help your journey in following Christ and making Him known to others.

*Check out Phil's blog at http://philipwnelson.blogspot.com/
(618) 201-9204