We asked 35 Christian leaders, “Who is the influencer with the biggest impact on your life and ministry?” Most of these leaders listed several influential thinkers, writers, innovators, and leaders more of us should get to know. This response is from Kerry Allen, an evangelist and executive director with Person to Person Ministries, Hillsboro, Ohio.
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The greatest blessing in my life is to have a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. This relationship is not by accident or coincidence. It is the result of numerous individuals God has brought into my life who have taught me, loved me, and shown me Jesus.
Some of my greatest influencers have been:
John Gillum (bivocational preacher), my preacher, most directly influenced me to become a preacher. He mentored me and exemplified pure professionalism and personal integrity.
The greatest time of personal growth I ever experienced were the nine years I worked with Don Cooper, president of Northeast Ohio Bible College. He is one of the best-read men I know. He is the kindest and gentlest man I ever worked with.
Dr. Johnny Pressley, professor at Cincinnati (Ohio) Christian University, is the ultimate combination of scholarship, practicality, and articulation. He knows the deepest elements of theology, applies them to everyday life, and explains them simply.
Ed Bousman, now deceased, set the greatest example of working at preaching I have ever seen. His creativity and delivery in preaching are unparalleled.
These men have truly shaped my life, my mind, and my service in Christ.
Author: Christian Standard
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