President’s Perspective: He Did This for You

As I continue to travel throughout the state, I am amazed at the giftedness of South Carolina Baptist clergy and laity. Within the last month, I preached a revival service and spoke as the special guest for Baptist Men’s Day, and I have spoken at several associational meetings. I was also privileged to attend the Restore Conference in Myrtle Beach, where Monty Hale and his staff assembled ministers and wives from around South Carolina. Those who attended the conference are the epitome of God’s servants.

The world might ask what brings these diverse and talented people together. Without reservation or hesitation, these ministers and wives would state: “Jesus Christ.” If the discussion continued, each person would quickly confirm that their eternal hope was based firmly upon a resurrected Savior. Without the resurrection, all substantial hope would be lost.

Around 15 years ago, I was privileged to spend 10 days in Israel. I visited many life-changing sites, such Bethlehem, Ein Gedi, Qumran, the Sea of Galilee and Jerusalem. However, the most moving experience happened during a Sunday morning service at the Garden Tomb, the assumed burial place of Christ. Although I must confess that I cannot recall the text or theme used by the preacher, I remember being mesmerized by the empty tomb with the stone rolled to the side.

Throughout the service, I kept hearing the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. As I stared at the empty grave, I heard “He did this for you.” If there is ever a message South Carolina Baptists need to share with each other and the world, it is those five words. South Carolina, He did this for you! Happy Easter! Thank you for the privilege of being your state president.

— Tommy Kelly is pastor of Varnville First Baptist Church and president of the South Carolina Baptist Convention.