Pastor Steve Lawson is one of the most respected voices in the evangelical Christian community. Known for his passionate expository preaching, deep love for Scripture, and a commitment to sound doctrine, Dr. Steven J. Lawson has dedicated his life to teaching and proclaiming God’s Word with clarity and conviction. His influence spans across pulpits, classrooms, and the digital world, as he seeks to inspire Christians to grow deeper in their faith.
In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating story of Steve Lawson’s life, his ministry, his theological emphasis, and his impact on the global Christian community. Whether you are a fan of his preaching or simply eager to learn about this remarkable man of God, this guide will shed light on the journey of a pastor with an unwavering commitment to proclaiming biblical truth.
Early Life and Education
Childhood and Family Upbringing
Steve Lawson was born in Arkansas, United States, on April 13, 1951. He grew up in a Christian home, where he was blessed with parents who instilled in him the value of faith and God’s Word from a young age. His family attended church regularly, and it was in this environment that Lawson first encountered the truths of the Bible.
While his early years were steeped in church life, Steve did not immediately feel a call to ministry. Instead, like many young people, he was focused on his education, personal interests, and figuring out what direction his life would take.
Educational Journey
Steve Lawson’s academic journey is one of dedication and perseverance. He pursued higher education with the goal of deepening his knowledge of Scripture and theology. Lawson holds several degrees, including:
- A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Texas Tech University, where he laid the groundwork for his intellectual pursuits.
- A Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where his passion for preaching and biblical studies began to flourish.
- A Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from Reformed Theological Seminary, where he honed his skills in expository preaching.
These academic achievements reflect not only Lawson’s intellectual rigor but also his deep desire to equip himself for a life of effective ministry.
Call to Ministry
Steve Lawson’s journey into pastoral ministry began during his seminary years. While studying Scripture and theology, he felt an undeniable call to preach God’s Word. This was not a decision he took lightly. Lawson understood the gravity of standing before a congregation and declaring the truths of Scripture.
He was particularly drawn to expository preaching, a style of teaching that involves a verse-by-verse explanation of the Bible. Lawson believed that this approach allowed God’s Word to speak for itself, ensuring that the authority of Scripture remained central.
Pastoral Career
Early Years in Ministry
Steve Lawson began his pastoral career in Arkansas, serving small congregations and gaining invaluable experience in shepherding God’s people. His early years as a pastor were marked by a commitment to preaching and teaching with clarity and depth. Though his congregations were small, Lawson poured his heart into each sermon, trusting that God’s Word would not return void.
Christ Fellowship Baptist Church (Mobile, Alabama)
One of the most significant chapters in Steve Lawson’s pastoral journey was his time at Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama. He served as senior pastor for 14 years, during which the church grew spiritually under his leadership.
At Christ Fellowship, Lawson became known for his powerful, Christ-centered preaching. His sermons were rich in theological insight yet accessible to all. He emphasized the doctrines of grace, the sovereignty of God, and the authority of Scripture, drawing from the teachings of historical figures like John Calvin, Jonathan Edwards, and Charles Spurgeon.
Founding of OnePassion Ministries
After more than three decades in pastoral ministry, Steve Lawson felt God calling him to a broader teaching and discipleship role. In 2015, he founded OnePassion Ministries, a non-profit organization dedicated to equipping pastors, preachers, and laypeople to faithfully proclaim God’s Word.
The mission of OnePassion Ministries is rooted in Lawson’s lifelong commitment to expository preaching. Through conferences, seminars, and online resources, OnePassion Ministries seeks to train the next generation of biblical preachers. The ministry’s core values include:
- Biblical Fidelity: Upholding the authority and inerrancy of Scripture.
- Christ-Centeredness: Exalting Jesus Christ as the foundation of all preaching.
- Doctrinal Soundness: Teaching theology that aligns with historic biblical orthodoxy.
OnePassion Ministries has had a global impact, providing resources to pastors and churches around the world. Lawson’s goal is to ignite a reformation in preaching, ensuring that the Word of God remains central in the life of the church.
Theological Emphasis
Steve Lawson is a staunch advocate of Reformed Theology, a framework of Christian belief that emphasizes the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the doctrines of grace. His theological views are heavily influenced by the Puritans and Reformers of church history, including John Calvin, Martin Luther, and George Whitefield.
Some of the key themes in Lawson’s teaching include:
- Sovereignty of God
Lawson frequently emphasizes that God is in control of all things, from the smallest details of life to the grand scope of history. He believes that this truth brings comfort and assurance to believers. - Expository Preaching
Lawson is passionate about letting Scripture speak for itself. His sermons are marked by careful exegesis, ensuring that every passage is explained in its proper context. - The Doctrines of Grace
Also known as the “Five Points of Calvinism,” the doctrines of grace are central to Lawson’s preaching. These doctrines highlight God’s initiative in salvation and His unrelenting grace toward sinners. - Christ-Centered Living
For Lawson, the ultimate goal of theology is to glorify Christ. He challenges believers to pursue holiness, love for others, and a deeper relationship with Jesus.
Author and Speaker
Books
Steve Lawson is not only a preacher but also a prolific author. He has written over 30 books, many of which focus on theology, church history, and spiritual growth. Some of his most well-known works include:
- “Foundations of Grace” – A detailed exploration of God’s grace throughout biblical history.
- “The Moment of Truth” – A call for bold, uncompromising preaching in today’s culture.
- “A Long Line of Godly Men” – A series that highlights the lives of influential Christian leaders throughout history.
These books reflect Lawson’s deep love for theology and his desire to inspire others to live with a God-centered focus.
Speaking Engagements
As a sought-after speaker, Steve Lawson has traveled around the world to preach and teach. He is frequently invited to conferences, including events hosted by Ligonier Ministries, where he serves alongside other respected theologians like R.C. Sproul (before his passing) and Sinclair Ferguson.
Lawson’s engaging speaking style, combined with his theological depth, makes him a favorite among audiences. Whether addressing a room full of pastors or a congregation of laypeople, he challenges listeners to live out their faith with conviction.
Personal Life
Despite his busy schedule, Steve Lawson places a high value on family. He is married to Anne Lawson, and together they have been blessed with four children. The Lawsons enjoy spending time together, whether at home or traveling.
Steve’s humility and down-to-earth personality make him relatable to those who know him personally. He often shares stories about his family and personal life in his sermons, using them to illustrate biblical truths.
Impact on the Christian World
Steve Lawson’s influence extends far beyond the pulpit. Through his sermons, books, and ministry initiatives, he has inspired countless Christians to deepen their knowledge of Scripture and grow in their faith.
- Inspiring Pastors: Lawson’s emphasis on expository preaching has encouraged many pastors to rethink their approach to sermon preparation.
- Educating Believers: His books and resources have equipped Christians with a better understanding of Reformed Theology and church history.
- Global Reach: OnePassion Ministries has made a significant impact on churches and pastors worldwide, spreading the message of biblical fidelity.
Legacy and Future Endeavors
As Steve Lawson continues his work through OnePassion Ministries, his legacy as a faithful preacher and teacher of God’s Word remains strong. He is a living example of what it means to dedicate one’s life to the service of Christ and His kingdom.
Looking ahead, Lawson’s mission remains the same: to preach the gospel, equip pastors, and glorify God in all things. His unwavering commitment to these goals ensures that his influence will endure for generations to come.
Conclusion
Pastor Steve Lawson’s life and ministry stand as a testament to the power of God working through a surrendered vessel. From his early days in Arkansas to his global ministry through OnePassion, Lawson has remained steadfast in his commitment to biblical truth. His passion for expository preaching, love for theology, and dedication to equipping others have made him one of the most influential voices in modern Christianity.
As believers continue to seek sound teaching in an ever-changing world, Steve Lawson’s work serves as a beacon of hope, guiding others toward a deeper relationship with Christ and a love for God’s Word.
