By Ralphine Major

The Memphis native who is an avid Elvis fan, once wore long hair, and still plays the guitar does not seem like a description of someone who has authored a Bible-based book. But, he has—though the long hair is gone. Mike Boyd, once a rising, young businessman never set out to become a preacher. God called him to the ministry, and he answered. Forty years later, Dr. Miles “Mike” F. Boyd is helping a new generation of teachers and preachers answer their call to the ministry.

While teaching at the J. Harold Smith Pastor Training Center, Boyd compiled his notes into a book called, “Principles of Preaching, A Guidebook on Biblical Communication.” The easy-to-read format of the book can be a source of help to anyone—not only preachers and teachers—in their walk with God. One of my favorite parts in the book is “The Nature of Jesus’ Working: He came. He saw. He touched. He healed. She served.” This references when Jesus went to Peter’s house and healed his mother-in-law, who then was able to serve Him. “Jesus went where the people were.”

Toward the end of the book is a prayer Boyd developed in 1977 to use in inviting people to come to Christ: “Lord Jesus, I am a sinner, I believe you died on a cross for me and shed your blood. Right now, I turn from my sin. I give you my heart. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus. Thank you for saving me. In your name, I pray. Amen!” The recent celebration of Easter reminds us of the hope we have in Christ Jesus. Boyd often reminds his congregation that “life is a vapor.” It is his desire that those who have never prayed this prayer of salvation, pray it; and for those who have, invite someone else to accept Christ as their Saviour.

This beloved pastor and his wife, Sandy, have called East Tennessee home for the past 17 years. Sandy is a former elementary school teacher and is a huge help in his ministry. They have two sons who are businessmen, Trey and Matt.

“Principles of Preaching” may be purchased locally at Cedar Springs Christian Stores on Clinton Highway and North Peters Road or Lifeway Christian Store on Washington Pike or ordered online from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle. Autographed copies for $10 each may be ordered from Mike Boyd Ministries at Wallace Memorial Baptist Church, 701 Merchant Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37912; www.wmbc.net. Mike Boyd Ministries currently pays no salaries. “Every penny goes to either missions or ministry,” Boyd says. “Any proceeds goes right back in to helping people know God and grow in Him.” Surely, there are two proud grandmothers smiling down from heaven.

Boyd often closes the service by saying “God is good . . .” and it prompts the congregation’s reply, “all the time.”

He responds with “All the time . . .” and they answer “God is good.” Indeed, He is.