Remembering Phil Taylor
A quarter century . That is how long Brother Phil Taylor served us as Lead mission Strategist ( Director of Missions ). Over that length of time one would hope to make an impact and Phil certainly did . He impacted our association , our churches and many people individually . His determined emphasis on missions , kingdom growth , and church health could sometimes drive you crazy but he always kept the focus on where he felt the Lord was leading even if that meant making others - and himself - uncomfortable .
Jade Morgan at Public Church recalls a time when Phil challenged her to go on a CrossNet led mission trip to Romania , a mission trip she was sure she could never afford . “[ Phil ] suggested sending support letters to raise funds . I had never considered this , but the way he worded it it seemed like God would make it clear who was supposed to go if we did our part . So , I sent support letters . Fully expecting nothing in return . Yet , within about 3 weeks I was fully funded .. actually , MORE came in than I needed , so I was able to help others in need go as well . I think about this often & the impact Phil ' s suggestion was ‘ to make the ask ’. So simple & a huge faith marker in my life that I share with people in a similar position as I was each year .”
It will be different now without Phil here . Our association is entering what I call a blank slate season of ministry . It will be challenging and times even frightening , yet I know God is still working in , around , and through our churches . I know He is still calling and leading us to follow Him . Most importantly , I know God is still saving and making a way for the Good News to be proclaimed . Phil would undoubtedly encourage us to “ make the ask ” and boldly trust God for the response . As we fondly remember Phil ’ s impact , let ’ s also look ahead with faith , following God faithfully . And one day , when we are home , we can stand with Phil and celebrate all the great things our wonderful God has done !
Johnathon Powell , Pastor of Oak Grove Baptist CrossNet Moderator
Internationally , from Haiti to Nepal and beyond he led missions from the front . Privately , in quiet moments of conversation he led from his knees , always willing to pray with and for others . Whether stepping into the pulpit to preach boldly from the Word of God or providing quiet , Godly counsel to churches in need , Phil ’ s dedication was unwavering . He dreamed big things for our association and trusted our mighty God to be faithful .
Personally I am proud to say he was a mentor to me . He encouraged me when I needed it and more importantly , he challenged me . Phil was not afraid to shoot straight with me and hold me to a higher standard . He never allowed me to settle or shy away from where God was working .
James Phillip Taylor 1959-2024