Biographical Sketch

           

Dr. David Holder came to First Baptist Church as pastor in June 2002.  He grew up in Texarkana, TX, and has served previously as pastor of churches in Arkansas and Texas.

 

Bro. David received his Bachelor’s degree from East Texas Baptist University.  He completed his Masters Degree at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Doctorate at Midwestern Seminary.

 

He and his wife of over 25 years, Deborah, have two sons, Samuel, born in 1982 and Caleb, born in 1996.

 

I grew up in a Christian home.  My earliest memories are of being in church and Sunday school.

 

As I grew older, I began to have doubts and fears.  I knew that when I died I would go to Heaven or Hell.  I was afraid that I would surely go to Hell.  I found little rest. I substituted being active in the church or thinking that "I'm alright."  But inside I realized that I was a sinner and was not ready to meet God.  Some nights I lay awake thinking about it.  It was a heavy burden on my heart.

 

As time passed, I became more concerned about my relationship with God.  I wanted to be like others who were so sure of their relationship with Him.  They had a joy and peace that I did not have.

 

Finally, at a revival meeting at our church, I decided that it was time to stop doubting and make sure of my commitment to Christ.  I prayed with a counselor. I confessed to God that I was a sinner, and needed to be saved.  I believed that Jesus died on the cross for me, and I trusted him as my savior.  I committed the rest of my life to Christ.  From that point on, the burden vanished.  Peace took hold of my heart.  I had the assurance of the forgiveness of God.

          

Today, I go through my life with a deep sense of peace and security.  Christ lives in me.  I know that I have a home in heaven and the promise of an abundant life on earth.  The Bible assures me that to have the Son is to have life.  I have the Son, and I have life.  I am forgiven.

 

Contact the pastor at Pastor David Holder.