Dr. Elmo Johnson: Reaching, loving and helping people

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Dr. Elmo Johnson is the pastor of Rose of Sharon Missionary Baptist Church in Houston’s Fourth Ward, where he has served more than 35 years, and director of Uplift 4th Ward. Uplift 4th Ward is a community development organization started in 1995. It is revitalizing the historic Fourth Ward neighborhood next to downtown Houston by buying and renovating houses. The organization, along with other development partners, built the Kimble Senior Living center to give affordable housing to senior adults in Fourth Ward.

From deep in the heart of one Texan, he shares his background and thoughts on church and ministry. To suggest a Baptist General Convention of Texas-affiliated minister to be featured in this column, or to apply to be featured yourself, click here.

Background

Where else have you served in ministry, and what were your positions there?

Good Hope Baptist Church in Houston as outreach minister.

Where did you grow up?

Natchitoches, La.

How did you come to faith in Christ?

I accepted Christ on the mourner’s bench at age 12.

Where were you educated, and what degrees did you receive?

I have a bachelor’s degree from Houston Baptist University and a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in biblical studies from Jacksonville Baptist Theological Seminary.

About ministry life

Why do you feel called into ministry?

God called me at age 20. I heard him call me.

What is your favorite aspect of ministry? Why?

Reaching people, loving people and helping people.

What one aspect of ministry gives you the greatest joy?

I love talking to people and helping people.


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How has your ministry or your perspective on ministry changed?

I have learned to appreciate people for who they are.

Name the three most significant challenges and/or influences facing your ministry.

Adapting to the changes with technology. With God’s help, I will make the adjustment.

What do you wish more laypeople knew about ministry or, specifically, your ministry?

Ministry is about outreach—talking to people one-on-one, loving people, and accepting people for who they are.

Black preaching and pastoring are a joy. I love it!

About Baptists

Why are you Baptist?

Because my Lord demands and commands baptizing people in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

What would you change about the Baptist denomination—state, nation or local?

That we would come together more often and love one another.

About Pastor Johnson

Who were/are your mentors, and how did/do they influence you?

My pastor Rev. C.W. Kimble and Rev. F.N. Williams, who is 93 years old.

What did you learn on the job you wish you learned in seminary?

How to preach to people’s needs.

What is the impact of ministry on your family?

Most of my family are saved, and I still am witnessing to some.

What is your favorite Bible verse or passage? Why?

Psalms 100, 103 and 51. I also like 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, Jude and Hebrews. Really, I like all of the Bible.

Who is your favorite person in the Bible, other than Jesus? Why?

Peter, Paul, David, Elijah, Elisha and Isaiah.

Name something about you that would surprise people who know you.

I am a romantic. I love my wife very much, and she loves me. We enjoy one another.


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