My two cents . . . We in the Springfield area are blessed to have two of Missouri's greatest pastors in John Marshall (Second Baptist) and Hosea Bilyeu (Ridgecrest Baptist). I do not say this merely because they pastor large churches, but rather because they are Kingdom-minded men who care about other churches and pastors.
I doubt either one of these men could put my name with my face, but they have both had a significant impact on my ministry. I have sought each of these men out for advice at various times, and they have always been gracious to help a young pastor.
It was under Dr. Marshall's preaching that God called me to full-time ministry. I will never forget Dr. Marshall's statement that day, "The life you've always dreamed of, lies behind the mission you've always dreaded."
Dr. Marshall and Hosea host a luncheon every month for the pastors of our area, during which they lead a discussion of an assigned book. I have grown more through these readings/luncheons than anything else I've participated in.
From Dr. Marshall I have learned a passion for missions, the art of "conversational preaching," and a spirit of humility. From Hosea I have learned practical lessons in leadership, the importance of creative thinking, and the courage to buck status quo.
I delight in seeing these two men interact... Dr. Marshall, ever the statesman... Hosea, ever the hillbilly (self-professed). They are different in many ways, yet compliment each other wonderfully. The fact that they remain friends, when they could easily be competitors, speaks volumes of their character, and their love for the Lord.
I am told Hosea will nominate Dr. Marshall for second vice-president of the Missouri Baptist Convention, at our upcoming annual meeting. I am looking forward to that moment, and to casting my vote for one of Missouri's great pastors.