Former MBTS president honored, renovated building dedicated

posted in Articles, on Nov 06, 2009 by T. Patrick Hudson, MBTS Director of Communications

     As the biannual Board of Trustees meeting wrapped up at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary on Oct. 20, a former school president was honored for his service and a recently renovated building was dedicated.

     Dr. Mark Coppenger, MBTS president from 1995 – 1999, brought a message in chapel from Matthew 3-4 challenging all in attendance with focusing on the importance of knowing Scripture and being able to apply it appropriately.

     “One of the most important things you do in seminary is learning the Word of God,” Coppenger said. “You must be prepared to quote Scripture at any time and for any circumstance.  You must know it well because the devil quotes Scripture too.  He tries to use it improperly to create confusion.”

     The pastor of Evanston Baptist Church, near the Northwestern University campus in suburban Chicago, said that when we’re bold with our witnessing that people respond.  “We can’t shrink away from sharing the reason why we’re the way we are,” he said.  “We say, ‘drop your nets and come serve Jesus,’ that’s audacious and bold.  However, because of this boldness people respond to what we’re saying.”

     Coppenger encouraged the group that they are part of a healing ministry, whether they know it or not.  “The tough times we face are very minute compared to eternity, and when we win someone to Christ, we’re winning them to eternal health,” he added. “People ought to look at our lives and see the signs and wonders Christ has placed in us.  This shows them that we serve a powerful and wonderful God.  Always remember that you’re connected to a lot of power.”

     In concluding, the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Distinguished Professor of Apologetics commented on how many pastors are narrowing themselves in their ministries.  He said that many don’t understand what it truly means to be in ministry, and that, at times, it may mean having to suffer for Christ.

     “When we go out and witness to folks, they seem to think that all we’re after is their money,” Coppenger said.  “Well, we’re not asking for money, we’re asking for their lives.  When people fully surrender and commit to Christ, it may even mean suffering to include the giving of their life.

     “I urge you, by the example of Christ to be prepared to recite the Scripture and to be prepared to face the suffering for His glory.  Bear it with gladness,” he concluded.

     Following his sermon, Coppenger was honored for his service to MBTS in a ceremony that unveiled his portrait to be hung in the seminary’s library.

     “During his tenure at MBTS, Mark Coppenger prepared the groundwork for many of the things that are coming to fruition here today,” said Dr. R. Philip Roberts, MBTS president.  “He is a dear friend and colleague who cares deeply for this school, and it is a privilege for me to unveil this portrait in tribute to the great things he’s done for Midwestern.”

     The portrait of Coppenger was painted by Stephanie Addington, who is Roberts’ niece and an Assistant Professor of Art at Truman College in Chicago.  She is also a member of Coppenger’s church in Evanston, Ill.

     “I’m grateful for this opportunity to paint this portrait of Mark,” Addington said.  “He is truly deserving of this moment, and we’re grateful to honor our dear pastor for the work he’s accomplished in his ministry.”

     After the portrait ceremony, the leaders of MBTS and the Board of Trustees dedicated the recently remodeled classroom building with a new name.  In March 2008, the trustees pledged to give and raise half the cost of the renovation project.  As a result, the structure formerly known as the “Faculty and Classroom Building” will now be called the “Trustee Classroom Building.”

     “Having been prospered by God and enabled by His grace and power to complete the renovation of this building, we now dedicate this ‘Trustee Classroom Building,’” Roberts said.  “We’re so thankful for the commitment our trustees made in making this project a priority both with their prayers and financial support.  Our students will certainly benefit from being in an excellent learning environment, and God will be glorified as these students go out and fulfill the Great Commission in their ministries.”

     The renovation included technological upgrades such as smart boards, remodeled classrooms, office space, and restroom facilities on the upper level.  Downstairs, the LifeWay Campus Store was expanded by more than twice its previous size, and student center improvements were made.