The following article is part of a series of articles that will traverse church history to examine the preaching of great preachers.

Adrian Rogers: A Preacher’s Preacher and Lasting Legacy

Adrian Rogers, the longtime and renowned pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, TN, was a once-in-a-generation pastor, preacher, and leader. His preaching and pastoral ministry’s profound impact is evident through the lives he impacted and the legacy he left as a pastor and then president of the Southern Baptist Convention for a history-making three terms.

Let me introduce you to my pastor, Dr. Adrian Rogers, and share some of the attributes of his ministry that made him one of the most consequential preachers and pastors of the twentieth century.

Captivating and Life-Changing Preaching

Adrian Rogers was renowned for his captivating and transformative preaching. Starting in the 1960s, his reputation as the dynamic young pastor of the fast-growing First Baptist Church of Merritt Island, Florida, led to his recognition as one of the nation’s up-and-coming preachers. By the 1970s and 1980s, he had gained nationwide attention as the pastor of the historic Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis and the leading voice in the Conservative Resurgence of the Southern Baptist Convention. Adrian Rogers’ sermons were not merely eloquent; they were powerful. His preaching style was dynamic, engaging, and thoroughly Biblical. He possessed an exceptional ability to communicate the truths of the Bible in a way that resonated with people from all walks of life, leaving a lasting impact on their hearts, minds, and lives. His broadcast ministry, Love Worth Finding, accurately describes his preaching as “Profound truth simply stated.”

God-given Leadership

Rogers’ leadership extended beyond the pulpit. His ministry at Bellevue Baptist Church saw significant growth and development. Under his pastoral leadership, Bellevue relocated from its downtown location where the famed R.G. Lee had preached to their 300-plus-acre campus just off of I-40. Bellevue dramatically expanded its ministries through outreach, missions, and educational programs during his ministry. He was an anointed leader with a clear vision, unwavering commitment to the Bible, and a servant’s heart. He led by example, demonstrating the qualities of humility, perseverance, and dedication. Those who worked with him saw his remarkable ability to navigate stressful situations and joyful victories with the same grace and consistency. While Rogers is primarily known for his preaching, those closest to him say his real strength was his God-given leadership.

Consistency and Integrity

One of Adrian Rogers’ most notable attributes was his consistency. His family and friends all remember him as the same outside the pulpit as he was inside it. One of his sons shared the story of being out to supper as a family when a gentleman approached them to introduce himself to Rogers during the meal. They talked at the table for a few minutes before the man left. Rogers’ son remembered how his father never said a negative word about the man interrupting their meal. He made some kind comment and returned to his supper. To his son, this encounter was an evident example of his father’s consistent character. This consistency was a testament to his integrity—a quality central to who Adrian Rogers was. He was quick to admit when he was wrong and sought forgiveness readily. His willingness to pray with people on the spot, whether for healing or divine guidance, showcased his genuine care for his congregation and his reliance on God in all circumstances.

A Passion for Jesus

At the core of Adrian Rogers’ ministry was his passion for Jesus. His preaching, love, worship, and obedience were all directed toward exalting Christ. Colossians 1:18 speaks of Jesus having first place in everything. This truth was a guiding principle in Rogers’ life and ministry. He always ensured Jesus was the hero in his sermons and the focus of his daily conversations, emphasizing the vital and eternal importance of a personal relationship with Christ. This Christ-centered focus was the driving force behind his ministry and the source of his profound influence on others. This unwavering focus on Jesus defined his legacy, and his passion for preaching and living out the gospel daily inspired countless individuals to deepen their faith and follow Christ more closely.

Conclusion

Dr. Adrian Rogers’ preaching philosophy and pastoral ministry left an indelible mark on the twentieth century. His riveting and life-changing sermons, extraordinary leadership, unwavering consistency, and Christ-centered passion set him apart as a generational pastor. His legacy continues to inspire pastors and believers alike, reminding us of the power of God’s Word and the centrality of Jesus in all aspects of life and ministry. Rogers’ example serves as an example for those who seek to preach, lead, and live for Christ more faithfully.

Brad Whitt Serves as the Senior Pastor of Abilene Baptist Church in Martinez, Georgia.