“Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! ‘Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?’ For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” (Romans 11:33-36, NIV)
Paul’s words remind me of the oft repeated phrase, “It isn’t about me!” With all the attention garnered from accepting a new position, I need that reminder! I also need to express my appreciation to Kentucky Baptists for the warm and gracious welcome you have extended to me and my family. I am humbled and amazed as I reflect upon God’s gracious path that has brought me to this role and the privilege He is giving me to serve you and serve with you. As a KBC pastor for the past 18 years, and through my involvement in other roles in the life or our state convention, I have always appreciated the eternal value of our cooperative work and those who have led us in that work.
In order to be home to 2,400 churches, the KBC has to be a big tent. Just as any tent needs stakes to keep from being blown away by the least gust of wind, to avoid being “blown here and there by every wind of teaching,” I believe the KBC must be anchored by our commitment to these four things: the truthfulness of God’s Word, our Lord’s Great Commission, the beliefs summarized in the Baptist Faith and Message, and cooperation. Kentucky Baptists have shown a remarkable ability to focus on the things we have in common and work together to advance God’s Kingdom. I am confident that will continue to hold true as we move forward.
One of the questions I have been asked repeatedly is, “What changes should we anticipate coming to the KBC?” My response to that question is that I plan to spend some time viewing our work from the new vantage point entrusted to me before I begin to suggest ways to strengthen that work. That isn’t to say that I have come to this new role without a vision burning in my heart. To the contrary, I communicated to the search team five key areas that I want us to focus upon as I begin to serve Kentucky Baptists. I plan to share about each of these areas in my articles here on this blog and over the coming weeks. I will look forward to receiving input and suggestions from you along the way as “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22, NIV). Blogposts will have an open comment section and my email address is paul.chitwood {at} kybaptist.org.
Never forget, you are the KBC!
Words from a servants heart.
Thank you, Bro. Bill!
Paul, your comment about the “big tent” for KY Baptists strikes a resonant chord with me, as well as the four anchors of commitment. Three Forks Association and I myself commit to you and KY Baptists to do all we can to keep these as core values in all we do as we seek to spread the Gospel both near and far…”till all have heard.” May God renew your strength and vision daily…by His grace and for His glory.
Thanks for your affirmation and parthership, Bro. Castlen!
FBC Murray and I are excited about your leadership and are ready to serve with you.
Thank you, Bro. Sam!
Bro. Paul so glad our Lord has put you as our EX. Director looking forward to what our Lord may do with your leardership and Ky. Baptist. Praying for you.
Thank you, Ron! I hope all is going well for you and your family in Pulaski County!
Praying for you, Dr. Chitwood, KBC, and for all churches to fulfill ACTS 1:8! May we go together…sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ! May God give you a clear vision for His kingdom purpose. Excited what ALMIGHTY GOD has in store for us to do! May we all be willing…including me. Blessings and much wisdom to you and your team!
Thank you Vera Gaye! I will be depending on God’s answers to your prayers in order to lead Kentucky Baptists. We look forward to all that God has in store. I pray HIs blessings on you and your church family.