One of the most emotionally moving experiences of my life was touring Omaha Beach and other locations related to the Normandy Landing in World War II. Two particular moments left a life-changing impact on my understanding of the mentality and quality of American military leaders and soldiers.

The first was reading a plaque describing the Rangers who ascended and assaulted Pointe du Hoc, called by allied commanders one of the most dangerous missions of the war. They were led by Lt. Colonel James E. Rudder, who later became the president of Texas A&M University. The quality of leaders who set aside their careers to serve their country was astounding and humbling. It reminded me to challenge our best and brightest to serve in the military and other forms of public service.

The second was reading an inscription on the wall of the Normandy Visitor’s Center, a quote from an early speech by General Mark Clark. He said, “If ever proof were needed that we found for a cause and not for conquest, it could be found in these cemeteries. Here was our only conquest: all we asked was enough soil in which to bury our gallant dead.” Our armed forces fought to liberate, not conquer. They fought to ensure freedom, not establish control. Reading those words brought Jesus’ words to mind, “No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). In the case of our military heroes, they were willing to die for the freedom of strangers, not friends. What a sacrifice!

These selfless acts—and countless others in wars fought over more than two centuries – are commemorated this week with Veteran’s Day. Sadly, except in military communities, this day will pass with only token consideration by most of us. We can do better. On a personal basis, reach out to veterans in your family and community and show your appreciation to them. Use your influence as well to demand better service for veterans by our government. While our government is currently preparing to spend billions on new social programs, many veterans are waiting too long for medical care—particularly mental health care—from a system ill-equipped to meet their needs. We have a moral obligation to care first for those who have guaranteed freedom for all of us and assured the strength of a nation that can offer such social programs.

Thank you veterans for your service. Thank you for making our freedom possible. May God bless you with peace, satisfaction, and a sense of pride in the work you have done for the greater good of us all.


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People Who Believed in Me – Part Two

Dr. Iorg reflects on the humble families who made his seminary education possible.

Jeff Iorg
President
Dr. Jeff Iorg is the president of Gateway Seminary. Prior to his service at the Seminary, Dr. Iorg was the Executive Director of the Northwest Baptist Convention for almost ten years. He was also the founding pastor of Greater Gresham Baptist Church in Gresham, Oregon, and has served as a pastor in Missouri and a staff pastor in Texas.

People Who Believed in Me – Part One

Dr. Iorg reflects on the humble families who made his seminary education possible. He encourages others to invest in the church’s future leaders.

Jeff Iorg
President
Dr. Jeff Iorg is the president of Gateway Seminary. Prior to his service at the Seminary, Dr. Iorg was the Executive Director of the Northwest Baptist Convention for almost ten years. He was also the founding pastor of Greater Gresham Baptist Church in Gresham, Oregon, and has served as a pastor in Missouri and a staff pastor in Texas.

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Lead On Podcast
November 26, 2023

Stepping Away from the Edge — Avoiding Moral and Ethical Drift

Dr. Iorg cautions leaders against slowly drifting away from their moral and ethical principles. He describes some warning signs to watch out for and ways that leaders can better guard themselves. 

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Peter’s Confession

The confession of Peter begins with the question; who is Jesus? This is the first time in Mark’s Gospel that someone admits Jesus is the Christ. Jesus then defines who the Christ is and what He does. What does Peter’s reaction and the context of this passage mean for


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Jonathan Edwards and the Asbury Revival

Chris Chun and Chris Woznicki discuss the signs of true revival, signs of the work of the Holy Spirit, and why it is important to critically assess the characteristics of revival in a spirit of charity.

Chris Chun
Professor of Church History | Director, Jonathan Edwards Center
Dr. Chris Chun is the professor of Church History and the director of Jonathan Edwards Center at Gateway Seminary. Chris’ doctoral research at St. Andrews University was focused on the eighteenth-century Edwardsean Baptists in Britain. He also has served as president of The Evangelical Theological Society (Far West Region).

Jonathan Edwards and the Baptists | Douglas Sweeney, Nathan Finn and Chris Chun

Dr. Douglas Sweeney and Dr. Nathan Finn joined Dr. Chris Chun for a panel discussion on Jonathan Edwards, recorded live at the SBC Annual Meeting in Anaheim.

Chris Chun
Professor of Church History | Director, Jonathan Edwards Center
Dr. Chris Chun is the professor of Church History and the director of Jonathan Edwards Center at Gateway Seminary. Chris’ doctoral research at St. Andrews University was focused on the eighteenth-century Edwardsean Baptists in Britain. He also has served as president of The Evangelical Theological Society (Far West Region).

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