A Life Remembered

 

 

Jim Shaddix came to know Jesus as his Lord and Savior as a 9-year-old boy gripped by the fear of hell and eager to be saved from future condemnation. Since that moment of salvation almost six decades ago, God revealed to Jim the hope of the cross in ever expanding degrees of glory, far surpassing his understanding as a young boy.

In just the past year, through months of great hardship and tribulation, that hope became a beacon of assurance guiding Jim home.

“Hope in the world is different from hope in the Bible,” Jim explained as he reflected on God’s work in his life. “Hope in the world is a maybe, a might be, a want to be. It might happen; it might not.

“But hope for believers in Christ is a certainty. Coming to this place in this journey where physical death could be very real, but you’re looking at and thinking more about what’s on the other side — God has used that journey to move my hope more from just the escape of hell, and even more than just assurance of salvation, to a joyful expectation of the hope that we have.”

Looking back even to the Old Testament and to the psalms, Jim explained, Scripture presents an expectation that there is “something yet to be completed.”

“And God has used that to really give me great peace and confidence that, as Paul said, ‘Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day,’” Jim said. “It hasn’t yet been revealed what we shall be; but when he is revealed, we shall be like him because we’ll see him as he is.”

God did not just save Jim from condemnation. He declared him a child of God and began a work of glorious sanctification that would come to completion the day Jim saw him face to face.

The Pastor’s Character

At the age of 21, Jim responded to God’s call on his life to preach the word and to minister to the people of God. This call captured his soul and filled him with passion and drive; and it remained with him, influencing his steps for the rest of his days.

In the early years of Jim’s ministry, God brought to his attention an issue that would add roots of humility and vigilance to this drive. While observing the inner lives and characters of some church leaders he greatly admired, Jim started to see flaws — not just flaws, but discrepancies in their public actions versus their private ones. It disturbed Jim, and the matter started to weigh heavily on him.

“I never thought, ‘Well, God hasn’t called me to ministry, or I’m not saved,’ or anything like that,” Jim said, reflecting back on that season of life. “But I do remember thinking, ‘If this is what being a pastor means, I don’t want to be any part of it.’”

This realization would greatly shape Jim’s ministry and the man that he would become.

“It was a very disillusioning time for me,” Jim recalled, “and that was one of the things God used to show me that our actions — the things we say, things we do — have an impact on people.”

Yet, Jim learned, something much greater held the power to not only impact people but change lives: It was the authoritative and infallible word of God. If anything in his ministry were to affect the hearts of others, he wanted it to be the Bible — preached to God’s people through the power of the Spirit and soaked in prayer.

A Ministry of Faithfulness

When Jim Shaddix began teaching at Southeastern in 2012, he did so with the intention of serving and strengthening the local church. He sought to pour into young men training to be pastors, to invest in their lives and equip them for the all-important work of expositing God’s word.

This passion for the local church and for faithful expositional preaching was integral throughout Jim’s years of ministry. Before coming to Southeastern, Jim served at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary as professor of preaching and dean of the chapel; he also taught at Gateway Seminary as an adjunct professor of preaching for 6 years; and throughout all of this, he pastored churches.

Over the course of 30 years, he served as senior pastor for multiple congregations and held numerous interim pastorates. Preaching God’s word to the bride of Christ was paramount, and Jim’s academic positions helped further this goal as he equipped young pastors and church leaders in biblical exposition.

“Everything comes back to the word,” Jim expressed during one conversation when asked to give advice to a young pastor preaching to a skeptical world. “We have to trust the word to do its work. And so my advice would be: Depend on that, start there, and stay there and trust that. Trust that to be where your content comes from, where your authority comes from, where your power comes from. Everything comes back to the word, and I know it begins to sound trite when you’re constantly saying just preach the word. But the reality is that’s what Paul said to do.”

In his teaching and his preaching, Jim sought to model what he taught, whether this meant pausing in the middle of a class to demonstrate to his students how to pray through a specific issue or inviting students to accompany him on his trips so they could gain practical experience.

At Southeastern, in addition to teaching, Jim served as the Equip Network coordinator, helping Southeastern resource churches across North America. He then held the role of director of the Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership where he also later served as the senior fellow.

In each of his classes, Jim sought to impress on his students the authority of God’s word and the all-surpassing importance of prayer. As a scholar, he emphasized excellence and walked alongside many doctoral students as their major professor.

And in all of his years of ministry, Jim was not alone. The impact he left on so many people was only possible through the sacrifice and determination of his greatest partner in life, his beloved wife, Debra.

Those who watched and learned from Jim and Debra’s marriage observed the depths of their mutual service and sacrifice. Though Debra’s ministry has often been less public, it has had just as great of an influence. For decades, Debra’s labor of love and hospitality has selflessly provided the space and setting for countless meals, meetings, and ministry opportunities in their home.

During Jim and Debra’s first 11 years of marriage, God blessed them with their three children, Clint, Shane, and Dallys. Family has remained a priority in the Shaddix’s lives, and though Jim often found himself traveling and teaching at different speaking engagements, he worked hard to ensure that his family life did not suffer for the sake of ministry. When it came to hobbies, he could often be found working on projects and carpentry around the house.

Through the Valley of the Shadow

Towards the end of 2023, as the holidays were drawing near, Debra was the first to notice small changes in Jim’s behavior. Over the next few weeks, these changes became concerning enough to prompt a visit to the ER in the middle of January 2024.

From this visit, MRI and CT scans revealed multiple tumors in Jim’s brain that required urgent surgery. Within a week, after the largest mass was removed, the diagnosis returned as stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Over the course of the following weeks, the Shaddix family adjusted to life in a hospital. Jim underwent multiple surgeries and remained regularly monitored. Physical, speech, and occupational therapy followed his procedures along with chemo and radiation.

In the midst of great trial and hardship, God’s grace and the care of his Church were profoundly evident to the Shaddix family. Jim and Debra were overwhelmed by the widespread support, prayers, and encouragement they received from people across the world and especially from their local body of believers. Over the course of decades, so many people had been affected by Jim and Debra’s investment in their lives, and here was an opportunity to give back in a time of need.

Meanwhile, despite ongoing treatment and infections that continued to develop, Jim wanted to continue his work of preaching and teaching, for through the word of God people are transformed and hope is proclaimed.

At the end of the spring 2024 semester, for the first time since treatment began, he had the opportunity to step back into the classroom and instruct some of his students. He also participated in an onstage chapel conversation with Southeastern President Danny Akin, and during that conversation, Jim took every opportunity to encourage his listeners with the truth of Scripture, proclaiming to them God’s sovereignty in suffering and the hope that believers have in Christ.

That fall, Jim continued teaching in the classroom and remained invested in training and equipping young men for pastoral work and biblical exposition. He attended student events when able and even established an initiative called the Dead Preachers Society, a project close to his heart and something he had originally begun during his days at New Orleans. Inspired by the idea of the Dead Poets Society, the group of men met at 6:30am every Thursday to study through the works of great preachers of old so as to encourage and equip younger preachers in their work of ministry.

During a December 2024 chapel service, Southeastern established an endowed chair in Jim’s honor, titled the Jim Shaddix Chair of Expository Preaching. Jim, Debra, and members of their family were in attendance for the celebration.

When Faith Was Made Sight

Throughout Jim’s cancer journey, the Shaddix family hoped that the chemo and radiation would prove effective, that the cancer would shrink, and that Jim’s life and ministry on earth would be prolonged. However, over the summer and fall of 2024, his body continued to decline and weaken.

In early January 2025, following a prolonged and difficult stay in the hospital, Jim came home under hospice care to spend his remaining weeks in comfort with his children, his grandchildren, and with Debra.

In that hard moment, when the decision to return home was made, Jim’s words gave full summary of God’s work in his life: “Jesus is sufficient.”

Earlier the previous year, during his conversation with Dr. Akin in chapel, Jim had reflected on the beauty of the new heavens and the new earth, where all tears will be wiped away — a promise, he told listeners, that held a new and profound weight because of his battle with cancer.

“I can’t tell you how rich that becomes when you’re actually looking at that and thinking about that, because there’s been a lot of pain and crying and mourning in this journey,” he said.

“From an eschatological standpoint, knowing that that is what awaits me on the other side — it has been such an encouragement, such a blessing — and that Jesus is going to usher that in, usher me into that,” Jim expressed.

At the end of a long road, on February 1, 2025, Jim’s faith was made sight, and his hope received its full expectation in the presence and joy of his Savior when he was called home.

Southeastern mourns deeply alongside the Shaddix family, and yet there is much rejoicing for a life that ran with great endurance the race of faith, persevering in truth and honor to the very end. Because of Jim’s faithfulness and commitment to his calling, thousands of people can testify to the tremendous influence that he had on their lives, on their walk with the Lord, and on their prayers. In Jim’s life and death, God was glorified and hope proclaimed.

Memories

 

• “Jim Shaddix was a unique and precious gift to the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was also a much loved and cherished friend. He was a great teacher and preacher of the Bible. He was an unbelievable mentor and disciple maker. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. Simply put, he was a man of God and a faithful servant of King Jesus. I will miss him tremendously. But I am also comforted by the fact that I will see him again.”

– Dr. Danny Akin

• “No matter how old I get, I continually watch for godly, consistent, authentic men who are role models of faith for me. I count Jim Shaddix among that number. I, along with generations of students, love the Lord more because of Dr. Shaddix’s influence in our lives”

– Dr. Chuck Lawless

• “At Southeastern, God used Jim Shaddix as a champion of biblical exposition to shape a generation of Christ-centered expositors. His ability to faithfully exegete a biblical passage and clearly communicate the truth of the text in a compelling, Spirit-empowered manner, was unparalleled. Through his personal investment in his students, his faithful ministry as a pastor, and his practical instruction as an author and professor, Dr. Shaddix equipped countless pastors to faithfully preach God’s word. Jim Shaddix’s personal influence on my life and ministry as a mentor and a friend is immeasurable. His sincere love for our Savior and unwavering commitment to preach God’s word will continue to inspire me every day to follow Christ and fulfill my own calling.”

– Dr. Scott Pace

• I will never be able to put into words my appreciation for Dr. Shaddix. My most memorable exchange with him came in Bible Exposition 2. After I preached a sermon on Abraham, Dr. Shaddix began his feedback. “Dallas, that was a great sermon. I am just not sure how you got that sermon from that text.” OUCH. Yet, he delivered this remark with grace and a desire for me to grow in my preaching. I will remember him fondly as MY PREACHING PROFESSOR.

– Dallas Winston

• In 2018, I had Dr. Shaddix in my first semester of seminary. I can still remember his discussion in finishing well and we all spent time praying for the upcoming semester and for us to finish well. I thought back to that class this weekend and I am sad he is gone but incredibly proud of his faithfulness. I am super grateful for knowing Dr. Shaddix and learning from him.

– David

• Monday afternoons were some of the most shaping and edifying moments in my preaching development. After traveling from SEBTS to preach each Sunday for Two years as interim pastor at Brainerd Baptist, Dr. Shaddix would eagerly and selflessly give his time to our team of preachers. We were blessed each Monday to learn from him as he broke apart a text, shared his observations, and, of course, developed the text’s main idea. Those two years of praying through the text, wrestling with the text, discussing the text, and crafting outlines were and will remain two of the most memorable and profitable years of our development as preachers. We were graced so kindly by The Lord and SEBTS by sharing Dr. Shaddix with us. I miss those Mondays. I miss Dr. Shaddix, yet I am deeply thankful he has been made well. From all of us at Brainerd … from the pastors who sat around that table each Monday. We are grateful and shaped for a lifetime of preaching ministry. Until the next time, we see one another, Dr. Shaddix: Me: “Good word, brother!” Doc: “Great Text!!”

– Paul S. Laso

• Dr. Shaddix saw potential when I saw only weakness. He challenged me when I was tempted to settle. He reminded me that the power is in the message, not the messenger. I mourn the passing of my preaching professor, a great mentor, a faithful man of God and a teacher who dedicated his life to training messengers of the gospel. Matthew 25:23 “His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things; enter into the joy of your master.’”

– Roy Vargas

• My Bible Exposition courses at Southeastern have been the most impactful courses of my degree. I am confident I am one of thousands shaped by Dr. Shaddix’s ministry and I am beyond grateful for the generations of church members and preachers God used him to shape. He will forever be an encouragement to me of a pastor with exceptional character and conviction to make God’s word known. Thank you Dr. Shaddix! You will be missed and you have so many praying for your family.

– Tyler Daily

• Sad to hear that one of my favorite professors at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Jim Shaddix, has passed away. Nevertheless, he is with the Lord. I have been blessed to study under him in his Bible Exposition class during my M. Div. studies. He encouraged me and provided good feedback. His lessons have paved the way for my Ph.D. in Bible Exposition journey at Liberty University. My sympathies and prayers for the Shaddix family.

– Angela Erum

 

 

• There is a long line of men who have been influenced by Dr. Shaddix’s mentoring and investment. One of my favorite memories was in May 2017, I had just finished my first semester of seminary and he took me to hear him preach at a church he was serving at as their interim pastor. We walk into the church, he takes me to the pastor’s office and he gets on his knees and pleads for the Spirit’s help in the sermon. He taught and modeled dependent prayer in preaching.

– Matt Ballard

• I had the privilege of taking Dr. Shaddix for three classes while I was at Southeastern. There are two memories that stand out most from my classes with Dr. Shaddix. My first memory is when I was in a bible exposition class where at the beginning we introduced ourself, where we were from, and what our favorite college football team. I said that I was from Maine and I liked the Oregon Ducks. Dr. Shaddix asked me why since those place aren’t close at all and I said it was because I liked the the mighty ducks movies growing up. Dr. Shaddix responded, “Liking Oregon because of the mighty ducks is like being an Alabama fan because you like Dumbo.” He truly had a unique sense of humor. My second memory of Dr. Shaddix was in a preaching class where I gave maybe one of the worst sermons ever preached. His response to my sermon was “I just don’t know where you got your points from the text.” That one statement changed my life. Because of Dr. Shaddix my entire desire and goal for preaching shifted to being solely dedicated to accurately preaching the word of God. I am now a pastor in Vermont and I will be forever grateful for how his teaching shaped my ministry. More than anything I will never forget his genuineness, his jokes, and his passion to disciple genuine christ-followers to preaching God’s word faithfully.

– Tyler Twombly

• In January 2015, I heard Dr. Shaddix preach a sermon that, to this day, has been the one of the most impactful sermons I can remember hearing. I was at a crossroads in my life, a seminary student trying to figure out what God was calling me to do and unsure of next steps. Dr. Shaddix preached Acts 1:12-26, entitled “Finding God’s Will.” That sermon comforted and encouraged me in a way that I can still vividly remember a decade later. I have recommended it to at least a dozen friends over the years. I am so thankful for Dr. Shaddix’s ministry and consider it a great privilege to have sat under his teaching on many occasions.

– Meredith Cook

• Dr. Shaddix had invited my wife and I over to his home to share a meal with him and other families considering ministry. It was such a blessed time being poured into and cared for. When I think of Dr. Shaddix I always think of that evening that he pastorally cared for all of us and encouraged us.

– Clint Crumley

• One of the most influential professors in my preparation. I will always cherish the wisdom, encouragement he brought to students, and to me. Grateful for his support and encouragement in the ministry and to push us to grow in our love for the Lord. Spirit Empowered Exposition will always be an influential class and one I always look fondly upon. Dr. Shaddix ran the race and met our Lord. Grateful for this man and his ministry

– David Quinn

• I am the Christian I am today because of Dr. Shaddix’s ministry. He mentored Benjie Lloyd, a pastor whose guidance nurtured my heart for the gospel and transformed my home church. He also mentored Tony Merida, a preacher whose faithful sermons convicted me and inspired those around me to evangelize and love me into the faith. At Imago Dei Church, my wife and I have been shaped into Christ’s image not only through Tony’s continued preaching but also through the discipleship oversight of Shane Shaddix, Jim’s son. I could not be more thankful for God’s servants, Jim & Debra Shaddix.

– Will Johnston

• I had the privilege to serve as Dr. Shaddix’s faculty secretary for a short time, and I am thankful for the time I had with him. Dr. Shaddix was a man of integrity and godliness, and I am sad that he is gone. But I know that the Lord has welcomed home a faithful servant, one whose legacy points us to a mighty and wonderful Savior.

– Carter Ellison

• At the beginning of each semester, The Shaddix’s always had people over from his classes. I went in Fall of 2021 as they welcomed students in for the first time since before COVID. When we left they said to come back anytime and I knew they meant it. I wish I had. Mrs. Shaddix held our newborn baby. They were just normal godly people. But when we were leaving, my wife, who was on maternity leave at the time, told Dr. Shaddix she was coming to chapel the next day to hear him preach. He asked us to pray for him. The preaching professor wanted the preaching student and his wife to pray for him before speaking at chapel. That moment taught me so much. I started this by typing out the Power In The Pulpit software, which I use every week. But that is secondary. Dr. Shaddix loved Jesus and wanted to see him proclaimed well. I learned so much from him, but the number one thing I learned is to just be completely dependent on God. This was emphasized in his classes. It was always taken back to prayer. Sometimes when I am just running through sermon prep, I think of Dr, Shaddix and I stop and pray. He taught me more than I could ever express and I am deeply thankful for him and the example he gave.

– Gabe Thomas

• I went to high school with Jim. He was a couple years ahead of me so we didn’t interact very much, but he seemed to be a decent guy. Now I know why. RIP Jim

– Tim Gawry

• Jim served Broadmoor Baptist Church as our interim pastor twice, first from October 1998 to December 1999 when we were in Jackson, Mississippi and then in January 2019 to June 2020 after we moved to Madison, Mississippi. He also came back and met with our staff in between those times, and he offered lots of wisdom and encouragement to many of our members over the years. Those of us who were privileged to be there for both of his pastorates still talk about how powerful his preaching was on both occasions and what a quality leader he was. A true servant. A class act. A dear friend to some of my dear friends. A brilliant and yet humble expositor. It was a real privilege to just be a guy in the pew and listen to Jim share from God’s word. The body of Christ this side of eternity has suffered a great but temporary loss. What a powerful legacy Jim has left us.

– Kendall Moore

• I first met Dr. Shaddix on a preview day lunch with my parents in 2023. I knew after meeting he and the other professors that Southeastern is where I wanted to sit at the feet of these dedicated and faithful men. As a brief student of Dr. Shaddix, I was extremely proud to have spent even a semester in the classroom with him. His wisdom and passion to shape and build those who seek to serve the Lord in pastoral ministry were evident from the very beginning. He just as much cared for us as individuals and people, as brothers and sisters in the family of God. He was always willing to stay after class and answer questions. Always open to help students grow in faith and conviction. He opened his home to us, just to know us better; using the age old trick of putting food on the table for young folks. We spent hours getting to know him. He and I even bonded over a love for the Alabama Crimson Tide (which was further confirmation of his trustworthiness!) I ultimately remember his inspirational way of teaching us to think about Bible study and proclamation and his unwavering commitment to Christ and His church. He will be sorely missed here in our community, but he has finished his race, and is in the arms of Christ Jesus his savior. May God bless the Shaddix family and the community of friends who will forever glorify Him for such a beacon in our lives.

– Ethan Coats

• Years ago, when I heard Jim Shaddix talk about his own walk with God and the necessity of depending on the Spirit’s power in ministry, it impacted me greatly. That impact has been multiplied in the lives of so many people. Dr. Shaddix believed strongly that preparation for ministry requires not only formal education, but also formation in Christlike character. He lived both and instilled both in a generation of ministers. Effective pastor, powerful Bible preacher, prolific writer, inspiring professor, and exemplary Christ-follower — what a legacy he has left!

– Allan Moseley

• I have a handful of men in my life I have looked to as remarkable examples of a Christ-follower — men who just walk with the Lord and humbly point others to Jesus. You never question their integrity, and you want to be like them as they are like Jesus. I count Jim Shaddix among that number. I am deeply grateful the Lord allowed our lives to cross at SEBTS, and I pray I am a better follower of Christ because of Jim’s influence.

– Chuck Lawless

• Some of the most influential and impactful lessons I took from seminary came from Dr. Shaddix’s class. I thought it was a little strange at first for me to take an expository preaching class as a requirement, but found myself on this cloud of witnesses to the high calling and careful teaching and preaching of God’s Word. I no longer sit through sermons the same, both a good and often challenging aspect I took from his class. I continue to watch SEBTS from afar, as an alumni, grateful for my time at seminary and the amazing professors, facilitators, teachers, and mentors I sat under. I am deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Shaddix passing, but praise God for his life, obedience, faithfulness, and witness.

– Heather Sparks

• While I never had a class at Southeastern in my doctoral studies with Dr. Shaddix, I was always encouraged by his preaching, writing, and even hospitality in my time as a trustee at Southeastern. In fact, several years ago while transiting through the Atlanta airport on my way to Southeastern, Dr. Shaddix and I were on the same flight, as he was returning from an interim preaching opportunity. We struck up a conversation there at the gate about my role as a trustee, my progress in the DMin. program, and his preaching/teaching ministry. Upon arrival at RDU, while I could have taken a complementary shuttle to the hotel, Dr. Shaddix extended a ride to me, and it was a great opportunity to further our conversation and mutually encourage one another in our ministries. It reflected the Great Commission heartbeat of Southeastern and warmth of Christ-like character of Dr. Shaddix to meet a very practical need. That same spirit spilled out in his preaching, teaching, and everyday ministry, which will continue to have a ripple effect in the ministers, missionaries, and churches he impacted.

– Ryan Martin

• Dr. Shaddix was a man who committed himself, body and spirit, public and private, to the humble submission and the bold proclamation of God’s Word. In the classroom, behind the pulpit, or in the backyard, he was a man wholly surrendered to the power and command of our Lord, laying forth his testimony and witness as one to be imitated. I am forever thankful for God’s incredible gift in Dr. Shaddix and I await, as those who have eternal hope, to see his face yet again, and to join him in the everlasting worship of the Divine, glorifying our Great God in eternal gladness.

– Kyler Martin

• I had the joy and privilege of taking Bible Exposition classes with Dr. Shaddix at SEBTS, and I’ll never forget one day when he, in an exercise purposed to model Biblical preaching, gave a devotional message from Psalm 95 at the beginning of class. While his command of the verses and the truths they contained were obvious, what struck me was his love for the divine author. As he spoke, my heart “burned within me” as he opened the Scriptures in the pattern of our savior! I remember coming home and telling my wife how, if God willed it, I wanted to give my life making others feel the same way Dr. Shaddix made me feel that day. Now as I serve as a lead pastor, I continue to pray that the Lord would make the kind of man Dr. Shaddix was: full of love for God, full of God’s Holy Spirit, full of confidence in God’s Word, and full of passion for God’s glory. May his legacy live on in the countless many he impacted for the praise of Jesus until that day when we meet again!

– Chase Jenkins

• When I think of Jim Shaddix, I always think of prayer. The first time I ever spent time with him was shortly after I came to Southeastern as we were gathered in a small group for prayer. I did not really know much about him at the time, but I walked away from that moment thinking, “This is a man who knows what it is to be before the face of God.” Every time I heard Jim pray, that same thought came back. I’m so thankful to God for how Jim taught and modeled prayerfulness.

– Jason Fowler

• Dr. Shaddix was the 1st Seminary Professor I ever had in a class called “Proclaiming the Bible.” He set the standard for the rest of my seminary and ministerial career. I will never forget the 1st day of class, he invited us all to kneel by our chairs so we could begin class in prayer. Then he began to explain the importance of God’s word. I’ve been blessed to listen to him preach numerous times and always come away amazed. I think of him, his love for God and his Word, and his instructions in class every time I teach or preach. I’m honored to say that I had him as a professor and knew him. He will be truly missed.

– Eric “House” Houseworth

• Thanks so much for investing in me in the Bible Exposition 2 class… That hybrid weekend shaped so much of how I preach today. It’s awesome to see the eternal impact that you made Dr. Shaddix! 1 Corinthians 15:58!

– Austin Dupper

• I never met the man in person but he came and preached at Fruitland Baptist Bible College in 2016 when I was a student there. It was the first time I ever heard of him but his preaching was powerful as he preached on Psalm 19. I started following his teachings and preaching on YouTube and his website. He will be missed. Prayers for the family. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

– Heath Benfield

• I met Jim Shaddix more than 10 years ago when he became the interim Lead Pastor of my church in Belmont, NC. At that time of my life I still had it set that I was going to become a meteorologist while spending most of my days teaching the gospel to other teenagers my age. My dad loved the way Dr. Shaddix preached and I did too. So, when I lost interest in being a meteorologist and felt called into ministry, that’s when I found Southeastern. When I told my dad that Dr. Shaddix was a teacher there he said “You need to go to that school because you will be trained under the great Jim Shaddix!” Moreover, when me and dad came to visit Southeastern before I started my first semester, both of us THINK that while driving we saw him walking his dog and when he crossed the road we almost didn’t stop! haha He will be dearly missed and I will treasure the small times I got to have a chat with him. Especially during one of our last conversations a few months ago when even after all this time of not working at my home church, he still remembered its name!! God Bless! Your Brother in Christ, Isaac Fazenbaker
• I only met Jim one time, I was a young believer who loved teaching God’s Word but needed help. I got one on one time with him in God’s providence on preview day and I asked him for advice on preaching, very reasonably he gave me his book “Power in the Pulpit.” Not only has that book been a tremendous help to me in learning how to reverently and effectively communicate the precious Word of God, but the encouragement of that visit, which he gave to the naive and zealous young man that I was, really built me up and confirmed in me my aspiration to preach. When I told him of my diligent efforts to get reps at teaching and preaching and how I wrote sermons in my free time to practice he smiled at me as we walked and said, “That’s really encouraging man, really encouraging.” His happiness at my passion still warms my heart to this day. Not only all of that, the man had preached 3 times in 3-days and even though he was dead-tired he still made time for me, truly I could see the restless and loving efforts of Christ himself at work in and through Jim Shaddix. Jesus, please hug this brother for me and tell him all I wish I could tell him now. Thank you Lord Jesus for the gift he was to me by your power at work in him.

– Colby Harris

• I was a new Christian searching for a local church body when I visited Brainerd Baptist Church (BBC) in Chattanooga, TN during one of Dr. Shaddix’s stints as the interim pastor. It was my first experience sitting under expository preaching and the result had a profound impact on my spiritual journey and development as a follower of Christ. I decided to join that church, began serving, eventually joined the staff, and later pursued my MA in Christian Studies at SEBTS. Coincidentally, Dr. Shaddix was the professor to shake my hand and congratulate me when I walked off the stage with my degree. A few months later, I had the privilege to help lead a group from our BBC family to Turkey for a 7-churches tour that Dr. Shaddix joined us on as the teaching pastor. What a priceless treasure those of us who got to sit under his expository teaching amongst the very places where Paul would have preached and the early church would have gathered will carry with us. The impact of Dr. Shaddix’s teaching ministry and example is too great to measure.

– Sydney (Vanlandingham) Brooks

• Dear brothers and family of Professor Shaddix. I am from Cuba and the teachings I received through Professor Shaddix and his books have left a very deep mark on my life, ministry and the church I serve. God used him powerfully to better equip me to transmit the truth in God’s way and not my own. I want to express my gratitude to God for having placed Shaddix in the pilgrimage of several Cuban students. I know that he is in a better place and eternally enjoying what he taught us to teach.

– Antonio Cruz Cruz

• During my first semester at seminary, I was walking down the hallway and came across a room full of men on their knees-praying. I was told that was Dr.Shaddix’s class, that he starts every class in prayer. Yes, I took a picture because I wanted to remember that beautiful moment. The moment I got to see,firsthand, a group of future ministry leaders being taught to start everything with prayer and in prayer. A few years later, my brother was able to sit and learn under Dr. Shaddix, for which I am so thankful because I know that he was taught dependent prayer in preaching. I am saddened to hear of his passing. But grateful for his faithfulness to equipping and training pastors. That he did and he did well

– Lydia Kitchin

• I will forever treasure the knowledge and love for scripture Dr. Shaddix shared with me as I sat under his tutelage. I have no doubts that Jim now rests in the comfort of his Lord and Savior, so my prayer is that God will continue to comfort the Shaddix family. Blessings,

– Danny Barham

• Dr. Shaddix had a passion for presenting truth, concepts and principles that are taught by scripture and ensuring his students have that same drive and passion for scripture. I am so blessed to be a past student of his Bible Expo I class at SEBTS.

– D.S.

• I was blessed to have Jim for five preaching classes at NOBTS—each class beginning the semester on our knees together. Excellence is an inadequate word to describe his impact. Rebecca and I were also blessed to call him pastor. We were so grateful for him and Debra and their willingness to fly to Missouri to perform our wedding. He humbly poured himself into being an exemplary husband, father, mentor, and friend. I loved this man and though I am saddened, I rejoice that his faith has become sight.

– Dale Thompson

• I have been a student at Southeastern for two years now, and I never met Dr. Shaddix in person, but I was really inspired by the conversation that he had in chapel last year with Dr. Aiken after he had been diagnosed with brain cancer. That has impacted me deeply to this day, and he will be greatly missed by everyone!

– Brittany Simmons

• When Brother Jim was pastor of Arlington Park Baptist Church, on May 20th 1991my wife Liz and I were at Medical City Hospital expecting our fourth child. The delivery doctor stated that I needed to sign a directive to designate which of the two I wanted to survive! My wife’s immune system was rejecting our child and the baby’s immune system was rejecting Momma; and the baby was winning!! I felt devastated! Then through God’s will, I remembered how brother Jim had prayed for us earlier that morning. I felt God’s Presence and I knew BOTH would survive! That doctor yelled at me and cursed. He said, “I have been doing this for 20 yrs., and I have never had both survive!!” I responded confidently ” This will be your first!” Through God’s Grace, sometimes God allows us to see or understand why He allows certain things to happen! So His Name can be Glorified! Just before the Pandemic was declared, my wife and I were in a jam. We could not return to our home because the full bath was upstairs and my wife could not climb them. That child that the doctor wanted us to reject, said to us, ” No way are you going to your house, you all are staying with me” Yep, that child from 1991 is Michelle Aguilar!  One other impact that brother Jim did on our lives was when we were looking for a new church home. We decided to visit Arlington Park. Brother was preaching. He stopped preaching and said Welcome! Introduced himself and most of the church got up and greeted us! My wife said, THIS is the church we need! Thank you Shaddix Family for your dedication to our LORD! We continue to pray for comfort and peace!

– Rene and Liz Aguilar

• Not a week goes by, as I prepare to preach, that something Dr. Shaddix taught me, or a memory of him while at NOBTS, comes to mind. His impact on me as a professor in the classroom, as I heard him preach many times, and as a friend outside, has left a marked impact on my life and ministry. I pray God’s peace, comfort, and strength on all the family. May Dr. Shaddix’s legacy live on through all those he influenced.

– Shawn Lowery

• Jim Shaddix has been a tremendous inspiration to me and a blessing in my life ever since I met him. I’ve never been more honored than knowing that every time I would preach the seminary he would make it a point to come and hear me. A finer, Godlier man I have never known, but nothing is lost when you know where it is, and I know where he is praise God!

– James Merritt

• Jim was the pastor that brought our family to the place of faith. Our life was changed because of him. My husband, Jim, lost his battle with brain cancer when he was 46, but Jim died knowing Christ because of Jim Shaddix. Great job good and faithful servant.

– Patti Butler Mathis

• Is a great honour to me to be an student of Dr Shaddix’ s class.

– MTS Reidel Verdecia Pino

• Dr. Shaddix was my first preaching professor at SEBTS. I’m grateful not only for his wisdom in laying a simple and sound foundation for preaching in my academic journey, but his example of Christ-like character. A few weeks into the semester Dr. Shaddix was teaching and happened to use an outdated illustration to explain something that unfortunately offended myself and few others in the class. I respected Dr. Shaddix deeply and knew he didn’t mean harm, but I felt it was needed to come to him as a brother and express how the comments negatively impacted some of the students. I was nervous because I didn’t want to embarrass him or make it seem like I was showing him up, so I hesitantly sent him an email that afternoon to address the matter. I was impressed by how quickly he responded later that evening but I was even more impressed by his character. Not only did acknowledge where he may have errored he apologized and thanked me for being willing to reach out to him. Not only that, the next class period he chose to address the comment in front of the entire class and asked for forgiveness from those who were offended. In this experience, I got a small glimpse of who Dr. Shaddix was as a man of God and this memory meant just as much to me as his lessons on the basics of homiletics. My prayers to his wife and children, and thank you for sharing Dr. Shaddix with us until God called him home.

– Courtlandt Perkins

• I am very grateful that Jim Shaddix participated in several of our video lectures on Bible Exposition and pastoral ministry. As an online student, I did not have the opportunity for face-to-face interaction with him, but listening to his lectures encouraged, inspired, and motivated me to dive deeper into pastoral ministry. He has ignited a passion in me for preaching the Word without fear or shame, focusing solely on its truth. As I listened to him speak with Dr. Danny, I was impressed by his deep security in the hope of God’s sovereignty and eternal life. Despite challenging circumstances, his zeal for teaching and mentoring us remains unwavering. May God continue to bless and reward his family and descendants for his service in the kingdom of God.

– Senyonjjo James Okurut

• During my last semester on campus, I needed to take a preaching elective, and everyone I asked, advised me to take a class with Dr. Shaddix. I am grateful I took their advice. Dr. Shaddix taught Sermon Preparation the Spring of 2017, and it was one of my most memorable classes from my time at SEBTS. Dr. Shaddix introduced me to EM Bounds, and taught the importance of exposition and constructing the bridge from the text to the congregation. Through his challenges to those of us in his class, to the care he extended in understanding where his students were in life’s circumstances, he fully exhibited the character of Christ.

– G. Jones

• Dear Family, Friends, and Church Community of Dr. Jim Shaddix, I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Jim Shaddix. My name is Rev. Japheth Biwott from Kenya, and I had the privilege of studying at Luther Rice Seminary in Georgia. During that time, I was profoundly encouraged by Dr. Shaddix’s book Power in the Pulpit. His ability to articulate the process of sermon development in such a simple yet precise way was a true blessing to me and many others in ministry. Dr. Shaddix’s work will continue to impact countless lives, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he taught and inspired. I pray that the Lord will bring comfort to his family, the church, and all those who were touched by his ministry. May God bless his work, and may His peace surround all of you during this difficult time. With deepest sympathy and prayers, Rev. Japheth Biwott Kenya

– Rev. Japheth Biwott Kenya

• Few exhibited the fruit of the Spirit as this dear brother. A true preaching hero of mine. Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your master.

– Kyler Smith

• I had the privilege of teaching and coaching Jimmy while he was in high school. You could tell then that he was a driven young man. He was a natural leader, a dependable friend, and an example for both the young and the adult to grasp and behold. I will never forget his smile, his questions that he would ask me, questions about both religion and football. I was a Church of Christ person and he Baptist, we had great discussions about our backgrounds. Jimmy taught me to look deep into others soul, see them for who they are, not what the world has labeled them. The years and geography separated us, but I have never forgotten or will forget the joy this young man brought to my life. I will miss you Jimmy, one day we will continue our discussions. You He place His hedge around your family, protect them, and bring Peace and comfort to them in this difficult hour. I wish I could be at your service. Blessed Be His Name,

– Ron Goodwyn

• Como matrimonio recibimos clases del profesor Shaddix, durante la Maestría en Teología, en Cuba en abril del 2018. Fue muy inspirador para nuestras vidas el profundo amor de él por la Palabra del Señor y su deseo de que la enseñáramos fielmente. También fuera del aula pudimos compartir y hablar y realmente pudimos conocer a un hombre de Dios, que tuvo el Consejo oportuno y el anhelo de motivar al servicio a nuestro Señor en todo momento.

– José Labrada y Nadia Avilés.

• I learned more about how a pastor can influence worship from Jim Shaddix than anywhere else. Whenever we served together, which was every chance either of us had, I always thought, “this is how these two roles are supposed to serve together in worship leadership.” I’ve tried to model it and teach it ever since. He was my teacher, my mentor, my ministry partner, and my friend. I thank God for him and will miss him terribly.

– Mike Harland

• A kind and dedicated professor! I am honored to be one of his students…

– Alexandre “Sacha” Mendes

• Jim Shaddix was my first professor at Southeastern. On the first day of that preaching class, he began by asking the students to join him on their knees in prayer. He led us in asking the Holy Spirit to prepare us to handle His Word with humility and earnestness. My first moments knowing Jim were profound. That room and that time of prayer will remain etched in my mind. He helped me begin correctly at SEBTS. He also ensured I finished correctly. He served as my Major Professor through last year, helping me cross the finish line even as he was approaching his own glorious finish line. He taught me so much, and everything he taught, he practiced. Of Jim Shaddix, it can truly be said, “He lived what he preached.” His heart and his Christlikeness will continue influencing me throughout my life.

– Mike Chandler

• Jim was interim pastor for Broadmoor Baptist in Madison MS two different occasions. I was church business administrator during both times and was very privileged to get to know Jim. He was such a Godly man with insights and perspective on so many things as well as encouraging and uplifting to our staff and people. I will always cherish our friendship and have been and will continue praying for Debra and your family.

– Barry Hardy

• Dr. Shaddix imprinted on me in his class that I can preach really good things to people and never give them what God is saying in His Word. He taught me that to preach well, I don’t need to trust in my fancifulness or ability to speak eloquently; I need to trust in God’s Word and let it do all the talking. He also greatly challenged me in my laziness with assignments. My first and only semester with him in Bible Expo 1, I emailed him a lot asking for extended time on papers and manuscripts, and he said that he would give me no such thing because I was being negligent in my work. While this was not enjoyable to hear, it was completely in the right, and I was displaying signs of negligence and laziness which needed to be stamped out as soon as possible! I will never forget his kindness to me, or the way he prayed on his knees in class. God used him in my life to show me what a man who is sold out for Jesus looks like, and I’m grateful for the short time I had to get to know him! May the Lord uphold you guys by His faithful Word and comfort you in His Holy Spirit!

– Cody Hassell

• Dr. Shaddix was such a blessing to Wayne and I at Brainerd Baptist. We loved hearing his sermons and teachings. He had a special way of sharing God’s word and his love. Our thoughts and prayers are with his precious family.

– Wayne and Selina Denham

• Dr. Shaddix, a sound theologian, teacher and the preacher of the word of God undiluted. Though, afar he impacted my life; his way of life, passion to raise ministers for kingdom work. The Lord comfort the family, and comfort us all. Till we meet and part no more

– Rev Gideon Yakubu

• How blessed I was to know the man who was Dr. Jim Shaddix. I was blessed to be surrounded by people who loved him and were invested by him as a student at NOBTS and a member of Brainerd Baptist Church. But then, the Lord blessed further by bringing him into our lives by having him serve as our interim pastor twice. Brainerd was so blessed by his teaching and wonderful exposition of the Word of God. Heaven alone will reveal the value of the investment he gave to mentor young preachers, men whom I have grown to deeply love and respect, dear colleagues and precious friends. Thankful for his impact on so many lives and I know God has truly said, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

– Bill Halladay

• God has used Dr. Shaddix to impact the lives of so many! From the pulpit to the seminary classroom and beyond, Dr. Shaddix has truly been a gift to the local church (Eph.4:11). I am one of many who have been blessed to have the opportunity to learn from his life and ministry. As a pastor, my weekly sermon preparation process has Dr. Shaddix’s fingerprints all over it. He taught me that power in the pulpit begins from a posture of prayer. His words about being afraid of doing ministry in his own strength have stuck with me to this very day…and serve as a daily reminder of the necessity of prayer in the life of the pastor. He taught me the importance of expository preaching and I have been equipped to do what I do today because of how he poured his passion for God and His Word into his students. I grieve for the family, friends, and everyone who have been touched by his life, but at the same time, I rejoice that he is with Jesus Christ. I thank God for the privilege of being able to spend a critical season of spiritual development under the influence of Dr. Jim Shaddix!

– Jason Wilks

• I had first been blessed by Dr. Shaddix by reading his book he cowrote with Jerry Vines Power In The Pulpit. I have since read as many books as I could find by him and listened to him online on a regular basis. I count it as a great blessing to have gotten to sit under his teaching at different preaching conferences although I was never able to go to New Orleans or SEBTS and study under him. Dr. Shaddix was such a blessing though in the times I heard him and also got to talk to him in person and through email. He was such a blessing to so many preachers students and churches alike. Mine and my churches prayers go out to his family.

– Kevin Hanel Conway Baptist Church

• Jim was a beloved member of the Evangelical Homiletics Society. We are proud to include him among this year’s inductees into our guild’s Chrysostom Club for his many contributions to our field of study. Jim was an outstanding preacher, writer, and role model. We look forward to reuniting with Him around our Savior’s throne.

– Greg Hollifield, President Evangelical Homiletics Society

• In the fall of 2012, I attended my first (and only) 9Marks Conference at SEBTS. There, I heard David Platt gush on Jim Shaddix as the man he credited with teaching him how to preach. As a newer student, I decided in that moment that I would study preaching under Dr. Shaddix, too. I have always recalled that course with great fondness; I had too few opportunities to speak with Dr. Shaddix directly, but I knew that the man was sharing with me what God had given to him. Eventually, I grew into ministry, not a preaching role. But, when the Lord gives me opportunity, I step into the pulpit thankful that he gave me the blessed opportunity to learn from such a man. Until we meet again in the resurrection, rest in peace, Dr. Shaddix.

– Joshua Waulk

• Dr Shaddix, has been instrumental in my spiritual life to a level of a desire to sit in his class for spiritual growth, thank God for the work he has accomplished both in the ministry and the entire family, his work has been manifested may his soul rest in eternal peace, may the peace of Christ be upon Debra and the entire family

– Lucy from Kenya

• I’m incredibly grateful for Dr. Shaddix’s influence on my life. We got to meet up for an hour or so every 2 weeks for a season and that time was invaluable to me. I’ve never had a mentor take such an intentional interest in my life, urge me so strongly to live in the power of the Spirit, and pray through tears for my holiness and the power of my ministry. Lord, raise up more men like Jim Shaddix in my generation

– Ben Williams

• As a DMin student, I will always remember Dr. Shaddix reminding us of the danger of ministering in our own strength and abilities. He constantly cautioned his students to abide in Christ and the Word and not their knowledge and education. I have always remembered this great advice and see the wisdom of his warning. And, Dr. Shaddix modeled this as well. His humility and dependence on the Lord was evident in his teaching and demeanor. He was a blessing to me and many, many others!

– Wes Belcher

• For my last semester, I only needed to take one more class to graduate. But I realized that in my focus on Pastoral Ministry, I never took a class with Dr. Shaddix and so decided to take a class taught by him. While all my classes were great and all my professors were exceptional in my time at SEBTS, it was Dr. Shaddix’s class that was a fitting and needed ending to my seminary education. It was a preaching class so I was expecting preaching and the teachings I would get on preaching. But I noticed that I and the rest of my classmates were praying a lot in class. While there were lectures and while there were preaching done by the students, Dr. Shaddix instilled in me, the importance of prayer in pastoral ministry. I take it as a great privilege and honor that I had the opportunity to sit under the teaching, even if it was just for one class, of Dr. Jim Shaddix.

– Soo Lee

• I was a member of Brainerd Baptist Church in Chattanooga and I was so blessed by God through Pastor Shaddix when he was filling in while we search for our next senior pastor. May you and your family rest in Hope, love, joy and peace that he is in excellent hands

– Erina Jones

• Dr. Shaddix’s influence on my journey as a minister is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. As a student in his Fall 2019 Bible Exposition I: Hermeneutics and Preparation (COM 3610) course, I remember how he challenged me in my sermons, pushing me not only to grow as an expositor but as a Spirit-filled image of God. One sermon in particular—”Once You Grasp His Love for You, You’ll Be Able to Grasp His Purpose for You”—changed my life forever. His critique was more than just academic; it was an opportunity for me to refine my calling and fully embrace the responsibility of sharing God’s Word. Even after I went through one of the most difficult seasons of my life—serving time in prison—Dr. Shaddix never saw me through the lens of my mistakes. Instead, he reminded me of the grace we all receive but do not deserve. His encouragement became a pillar in my restoration, and because of his words and belief in me, I continue pastoring a bilingual church of over 300 members in a small community. I cannot believe his passing. I can’t imagine the weight of this loss for his wife and family. But what comforts me is knowing that Dr. Shaddix built an army for Christ—men and women who now carry pieces of his teaching, his wisdom, and his heart all over the world. I am honored to be one of those pieces. My deepest condolences, Pastor R. Samuel Matos Nazareth Church

– Ruben Samuel Matos

• El Doctor Shaddix me bendijo mucho con sus enseñanzas. Estamos agradecidos por su vida y legado. Oramos que Dios dé consuelo y fortaleza a su familia.

– Yusniel Pérez Montejo

• I first met Dr. Shaddix in the fall of 2022 when I visited Brainerd Baptist Church. He was their interim pastor. The more I sat under his teaching the more I knew God’s hand was on him in a special way. He taught with authority, transparency and love. He could explain difficult passages with so much clarity that these passages were easy to understand. He loved God’s Word and teaching others to love it to. I pray for peace and comfort for his family, his friends, and his students. His home going is hard for those he left behind but for Jim it was when he first heard, “Well done, you good and faithful servant.”

– Stephanie Hudman

• Within the first month of me attending Southeastern as an undergraduate student, Dr. Shaddix invited me into his home along with about 20 other young men who were training to enter into pastoral ministry. As a first year student, who was nervous, and in many ways unsure of what God’s call looked like in my life, Dr. Shaddix made me feel at home. He made me feel like I was exactly where I needed to be. The words he shared that night spoke to my heart. While explaining why he felt called to equip men for ministry he stated something along the lines of his greatest fear being that people would produce churches that appear to be healthy and growing, while in reality the opposite is true because they had been manufactured by human strength. This stuck with me, along with many other teachings provided by Dr. Shaddix in his Bible exposition class. Little did I know at the start of my time at Southeastern this man would lay such an important foundation for preaching in my life. Additionally, little did I know at that time the Lord would make preaching a calling on my life. This past Sunday as I prepared to preach, all I could think about was Dr. Shaddix and the role he played to prepare me for the call the Lord would eventually lay on my life. I know I am just one among many men who have been deeply impacted by the love, wisdom and passion of this man. There is no telling how many individuals will be in heaven because of his life and ultimately his faith in Christ.

– Jonathan McNeal

• Dr. Shaddix and his ministry greatly influenced my ministry, faithfulness, and love for the gospel. He did this in a few different ways. The only time I experienced one of his lectures was on a hybrid weekend to SEBTS when a mentor had brought me along with him. Dr. Shaddix remembered me from that hybrid class a couple of years later when I saw him again after he preached at Fruitland Baptist Bible College. This instance inspired me in ministry and showed me an insight into the character of Dr. Shaddix. He was a professor who not only cared about his students but also cared enough about his students’ ministry that he would remember the mentee who was brought to sit in on a preaching class. That hybrid class has still formed my preaching to this day. I am grateful for the life and ministry of Dr. Jim Shaddix! May the exceeding joy of Christ be with you. Finally, be reminded that Dr. Shaddix did not waste his life! He greatly influenced even those who he had no direct responsibility to have an interest in!

– Toby Troxler

• I will never forget Dr. Shaddix’s intense kindness and kind intensity. His sermon critiques could be very targeted, yet they were always constructive, and his insights were gold. With a few well-chosen words, he could tear you apart and then put you back together better off. I would not be the pastor and preacher I am today without the influence of this dear brother.

– Derek J. Cominskie

• I will always remember the import Dr. Shaddix put on prayer and character. As a young family in ministry, I am grateful to have had Dr. Shaddix during my time at SEBTS. So many leaders seem to be compromising or falling into sin; Dr. Shaddix put such an emphasis on holiness and sincerity, and I will never forget it.

– Amanda Parker

• Dr. Shaddix and Jerry Vines co-authored Power in the Pulpit. Its teaching on building the sermon outline using the Biblical text itself serves as my primary method for building sermon outlines today. The use of the Biblical text as the sermon’s outline powerfully communicates the centrality, sufficiency, and usability of scripture. I am thankful to have been sanctified through the preaching of Dr. Shaddix’s son Shane, his mentee Tony, as well as others in how they modelled this outlining method faithfully as my pastors for eight years. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Shaddix family. Praise God for his wonderful work through Dr. Jim Shaddix!

– Bobby High

• I cannot thank God enough for the privilege of taking Dr. Shaddix’s Bible Exposition classes in the fall of 2020 and the spring of 2023. In my very first semester at SEBTS, having just arrived in Wake Forest from Germany, I walked into his class not knowing what to expect. What I encountered was a man whose deep love for God’s Word and passion for preaching were unmistakable. From the very first lecture, Dr. Shaddix captivated me—not just with his knowledge but with the sincerity and humility that permeated everything he taught. His classes were more than academic instruction; they were moments of spiritual formation. He not only equipped me with profound insights into Scripture but also showed me what it means to serve with a humble heart, to thirst continually for a deeper knowledge of God, and to love the people we minister to with unwavering faithfulness. What impacted me most was that he didn’t just teach truth—he embodied it. His life was a living testimony of the very principles he so powerfully preached. That example has left an indelible mark on my heart and ministry, shaping the way I seek to serve and lead. I am forever grateful that Dr. Shaddix poured his love, wisdom, and blessings into my life as a professor, mentor, and brother in Christ, as he did for so many others. His legacy will continue through the lives of those he taught and mentored.

– Val Missal

• I will always consider my friendship with Dr Shaddix to be one of God’s gifts of grace in my life. Knowing him made me a better professor and challenged me to a deeper walk with Jesus.

– Scott Hildreth

• It was my honor to serve as the Host for Jim Shaddix’s daily radio broadcast in Denver, “Hope for Today.” We would go into studio every two weeks and record openings and closings for each day’s broadcast. I would ask the questions, and Jim would provide rich and deep responses to introduce that day’s message. His quick mind and rapier wit made those times so much fun and yet, his vast understanding of how to communicate God’s word with integrity was always inspirational. My favorite statement of Jim’s, and one that has provided constant guidance as I preach is, “Let the text speak for itself.” Those simple words would be well etched on the heart of everyone who opens the precious word of God to “give the sense thereof.” Jim’s legacy is written on the lives and ministries of countless students and congregations who were blessed by his unwavering commitment to letting the text speak and the Holy Spirit to faithfully apply. I will miss my friend.

– Jay Badry

• I meet brother Shaddix when He went to Seminario G. H. Lacy in Oaxaca, México to share his knowledge with the students. A very nice person, like if we know since long time ago. Always patient when teaching Us. With a passion for teaching, His life was a blessing for everybody who know Him.

– Juan Figueroa

• Dr. Shaddix allowed me to join him one weekend on a trip where he had been asked to preach. I remember watching as he opened the Scriptures that morning. He stood for two services with just his Bible. No notes, only the open Word of God. There were subtle differences between the two sermons that no one would notice unless they had been on the edge of their seats for both, as I was. The man had been with the Lord in the preparation and it was evident. The text seemed like it had completely worked it’s way into his heart and was being poured out as he spoke. I sat in amazement. It was simple, clear, challenging, encouraging, and clearly Christ-centered. But the most amazing thing was the clear connection and consistency. The man in the pulpit that morning was the same man driving the car home. He was the same man who led our class in prayer. He was the same man who sat with me for lunch on several occasions. The character of the preacher was consistent with the message he preached. He was generous with his time. He was kind to others. He was humble, yet one of the best preachers in our generation. He asked me, on that day, “What are two things I should keep and two things I should throw away from that sermon?” I didn’t know what to say. I could only laugh. I sit here now, tears in my eyes. I am so thankful that God gave me the chance to know this man.

– Tyler Daniel

• Dr. Shaddix had a tremendous impact on my life in the few years I knew him. He and his wife, Debra, took me and my wife in as soon as we got engaged and mentored us in being a man and woman of God. We are so indebted for God’s goodness, as the giver of all good gifts, by blessing us with the true privilege of knowing Jim Shaddix. His life is a powerful testimony of one yielded to the Holy Spirit in preaching, pastoring, mentoring, and shepherding.

– Jesse and Caroline Hembree 

• My spiritual life was tremendously enriched by the biblical expository preaching of Brother Jim. God poured His blessings on him with a remarkable gift of making God’s Word come alive for those listening, and even turning hard-to-understand passages into very applicable “aha” moments. He was an encourager by nature. A remarkable leader. Expositor. Preacher. Shepherd. The list goes on. You will be missed, Brother Jim. Heaven is rejoicing and you are celebrating alongside Jesus with agalliao joy! Can’t wait to see you again!

– Nancy Swift 

• In the middle of my PhD course work, my mentor left SEBTS to return to the full time pastorate. In the kindness of God, Dr. Shaddix was gracious enough to become my mentor as soon as he hired at that same time. He was such a blessing to see me through the rest of the way. Dr. Shaddix was a giant of a man—a man who modeled deep, Scriptural conviction and faith, dependent prayerfulness, personal godliness, family devotion, and expositional ministry. He’s had a lasting impact on countless numbers of preachers/pastors who he discipled to trust the sufficiency of the Word. His book, The Passion-Driven Sermon, was one of the most encouraging and impactful books I’ve ever read on preaching. Something he said in that book that left a lasting impact on me, something that’s become a personal motto of mine, is that we preachers aren’t called to give our listeners “good stuff,” but “God’s stuff.” I’m grateful for this man and how he allowed our great God to use him to point everyone to the grace of God in Christ. His passing is our loss; but it is heaven’s gain, and Jim’s reward.

– Dr. Michael Spain

• Dr. Shaddix laid a strong foundation first for internalizing, and then for teaching the text of Scripture. As a student in his Bible Exposition I class, I didn’t realize that I would marry a pastor several years later. I’m so thankful to the Lord for Dr. Shaddix, whose lessons not only edified me, but now allow me to encourage my husband in his preaching in a specific and informed manner. I also am thankful for how the Shaddixes welcomed students into their home. I still remember the elaborate spread of hors d’oeuvres prepared just for us, and hope that I can magnify Jesus in my own marriage as they did!

– Chandler McLean Miller

• The Lord Jesus used Dr. Shaddix to change and shape the direction of my life. I wanted to transfer to Southeastern as a young MDIV student because thats where Shaddix was. The desire to spend my life preaching Christ and training other men to be Christ-centered expositors came in large part from Shaddix. I wanted to do what he did. Train other men to exposit the Word and proclaim Christ from Word. So I went into the PhD at SEBTS, because thats where he was. I am blessed to know him even a little bit. And I know that my story is the story of so many others. His kingdom influence is more than he could ever realize. My favorite memory of Shaddix is when I was in MDIV, I had just preached to the class and he told me (kindly and lovingly, of course), “Mark, you preach about joy with a scowl on your face.” He was making reference to my scrunched eyebrows. He was right. He wanted my face to match the joy of Christ that I was proclaiming. I’ve never forgotten that. Every one that knew Shaddix even a little will tell you that, while he was a great preacher and teacher, he was a better man. He was a man who walked closely with Christ, a man of prayer, a man who cared deeply about others. He reminds me of what M’Cheyne said, “It is not great talents that God blesses so much as great likeness to Jesus.” Thank you, Lord, for giving us Jim Shaddix.

– Mark Young

• I will always treasure the times when Jim Shaddix preached in chapel at Fruitland. My conversations with him helped to shape my preaching ministry and most importantly, my walk with God. In our Biblical Exposition classes at Fruitland, Power in the Pulpit will continue to be used for years to come! One of God’s choice servants has entered his heavenly home. I am certain his reward will be great!

– David Horton, President of Fruitland Baptist Bible College

• We would have been extremely proud to be part of that beautiful family celebration that Jim spoke of as the parents of Jim’s daughter-in-law, Alicia Bennett Shaddix. I am just glad that Alicia was able to represent the Alvin Bennett family. Jim, “I’m so glad that you are not suffering anymore, but now living in complete healing as you entered your eternal home with your Lord and Savior, Jesus.”

– Al & Michele Bennett

• Dr. Jim Shaddix was completely engaged in the classroom and very excited when we would gather together. Remarkably Christ-centered and always eager to draw us into the Lord’s presence, Dr. Shaddix demonstrated excellence and left an indelible impression on me concerning the humility and responsibility of a preacher. He said, “Preachers are public heralds announcing the gospel on behalf of King Jesus. Preachers are to cultivate in their personal worship and daily walk the attitude and demeanor of our Lord. It’s the only way we’ll truly proclaim Him as the center of our preaching.” I am very grateful to have sat under Dr. Jim Shaddix’s teaching and expository preaching at Southeastern.

– Cliff Kelley

• When my wife and I first came to Riverside in Denver, we were overjoyed at the quality and authority of Jim’s preaching and teaching. As we grew to know Pastor Jim more closely, we knew this was exactly where God meant for us to be. I taught a class for several years under his guidance and direction learning the real strength of Jim’s conviction and his training of us as his flock. After he left Riverside, we followed Jim’s preaching on the internet, still longing to soak up his conviction to the Gospel. We were very blessed to be able to share some time with him when he came back to Denver to participate in the funeral of a truly wonderful woman on staff. I cannot thank our Lord enough for giving us the opportunity to be with Pastor Jim that one last time. I am going to be so excited when I see him in heaven. I say, well done to a good and faithful servant – until I see you again.

– John Cotten

• I remember Jimmy Shaddix when he was in seminary at Southwestern Seminary. He had an impact on my life as a teacher at Woods Chapel Baptist Church. I was a teenager struggling with my calling and he encouraged me in the faith and my call. I am praying for his family and Southeastern.

– Todd Minshall

• Jim Shaddix was my pastor at Riverside Baptist Church in Denver. He came there after a long unfruitful Pastor Search period. One of his student from NOBTS David Platt and his book Radical impacted me radically and Jim was the catalyst. We did not always agree about program or process but never the purpose of bringing Christ glory and drawing men and women to Him. Later my son Matt Watson answered God’s call to ministry and David Platt was his teacher. Matt now serves in training Church planters in global under reached areas with indigenous home Church pastors and leaders. Thank you Jim for your lifelong work and legacy.

– Monte Watson

• I had the high privilege of serving on the faculty at SEBTS with Dr. Jim Shaddix. Although I did not take his classes, his teaching made such an impact on his students that I knew it would be unwise to miss out. When I needed to give advice to my own students on how to approach the study of Scripture, I could do no better than read to them from Jim’s notes. For example, here is part of Jim’s argument for the CLARITY of Scripture: “Would a loving God, who desires to redeem His creation, call His messengers to say ‘Thus saith the Lord’ and then make it impossible (or even a long shot) for them to know what He is saying? After inspiring His holy Word, could God actually be seated on His throne amused by His chosen servants’ efforts at solving an unsolvable puzzle? Such suggestions are preposterous and strike at the character of God. Although proper interpretation is hard work and requires careful consideration, the vast majority of texts in the Bible can be understood clearly and certainly. Consequently, God’s preachers can stand and confidently proclaim His Word.” Jim’s words from his lecture inspire confidence in the Bible and the loving God Who gave us His Word. Jim’s words spoken to me in person were just as important. He encouraged me as a younger faculty member in many ways, and modeled the role of a faithful preacher and seminary professor. I thank God for Jim’s life and ministry.

– Joshua A. Waggener

• Dr. Shaddix taught me preaching at NOBTS in 2003-2004. I was not only deeply impacted by his lectures, his encouragement when I preached in class, but also, a few times that I met with him in his office after class. I can remember one lecture in class when Dr. Shaddix wept in front of the class about a great preacher who had a moral failure. I will never forget that “lecture” or his brokenness on behalf of that preacher. In closing, I thank God for his impact upon my life. I am blessed to have known him and to learn from him. I’m most grateful for how he modeled before us how to love God, the Word of God, the people of God, and the gospel of God through Jesus Christ.

– Dwayne Norman

• While I was studying Master in Theological Studies in Cuba 2018, Dr. Shaddix taught us how to preach the Word of God expositionallly in the pulpit, but also at home in our private life, with love, pasion and joy. We are really very sad for having lost this talent of God. Thanks my Lord Jesus for this gift of Dr. Shaddix’s life.

– Ernesto Durruty Medina

• Jim Shaddix was my Professor of Preaching during my MDIV at NOBTS. He, Debra, and their family also attended FBC New Orleans where I was privileged to serve as Minister of Missions while attending NOBTS. I graduated in 2001 and my wife, Frances, and I left for the mission field to serve with NAMB. I loved Dr. Shaddix’ devotion to Scripture and also his sense of humor. In preaching class we were seated alphabetically and I sat next to David Platt. Dr. Shaddix would pass through the roll and say “Platt. . . Pratt. Don’t swap seats and mess me up now!” Dr. Shaddix instilled in me the importance of treating preaching with reverence, devotion, and with accuracy. He made a forever impression on my heart and his legacy has been carried on to our various church plants because of what he instilled in me. Frances and I grieve with Debra and their family over his departure from our presence on this earth. However, we also rejoice knowing the countless lives that the Shaddix family has touched together by their obedience to the Lord’s call in their lives. We love you Debra and will continue to lift your family up in prayer!

– Frank Pratt (and Frances)

• What a blessing and an honor to know all of you dear people. “Great is Thy Faithfulness.”

– Anne Batten, LCSW, Duke Hospice

• The one thing that Dr. Shaddix drilled into me as his student in Exposition I & II, when I had only started my MDiv a few months before and everything about seminary felt so new, was the sufficiency and infallibility of the Bible as God’s Word. The other thing Dr. Shaddix emphasized (though not as much as the first) was the insufficiency and fallibility of men, which only made his first assertion that much stronger. He taught and showed that God is supreme, not man, and in so doing drove us as his students to pray always and stay humble. These things have carried me in my life and ministry to this day. Thank you Dr. Shaddix. One day, I will thank you face to face.

– Kevin Larson

• Although I never had the opportunity to meet Dr. Shaddix in person, I was greatly impacted and touched by his books I read while taking my expository preaching course at Andersonville Theological Seminary. His writing was so passionate and personal that it felt like I knew him well and my heart is saddened to hear of his passing, yet has the hope of knowing he is safe in the arms of Jesus. I pray for God’s peace and comfort over his family that the many lives impacted by his ministry will continue to be faithful stewards of God’s Word.

– Rev. Robert E. Banks

• As a former student of NOBTS during 1999-2001, Dr. Shaddix taught me Intro to Christian Proclamation, Preaching Practicum (Women were required to take this class as a Church Planting major.), and Spiritual Formation I & II. My first semester at NOBTS, I was in Intro to Christian Proclamation. I remember entering the classroom, thinking it would be just like my college classes full of academia. To my surprise, Dr. Shaddix, after welcoming us and handing out the class syllabus, forever changed my perspective on preparing for God’s work in the ministry. He simply stated that before we get about the work of preparing to teach God’s Word, we must invite the God of that Word to be a part of the process. We then all got on our knees and prayed together as a class, as he asked the Lord to bless us and make all of our hearts, his heart included, ready to hear Him. As we got back into our seats, I can still remember thinking in amazement about the humility of Dr. Shaddix. His surrender to Christ in a moment that could have been one of pride and knowledge. He truly challenged me in all my classes with him to surrender to Christ and His Word, and was full grace and kindness as he admonished his students to share the Word with sincerity and truth. To stick to the Word, and give God the place to convict and grow those who hear it. As a Sunday School teacher now, and a pastor’s wife, his words still resonate in my mind and heart. I am so grateful for the investment he made in my life as a student in his classroom. My husband was his student as well, and we still both recall fond memories in his classroom, and are thankful to have sat under such a godly man of the Faith. (We still enjoy thinking about the first time my now-husband asked me out on our first date after his class 🙂 I’m not too sure I paid too much attention to his teaching that day lol, since I knew what was coming after class. 🙂 ) We will certainly miss him, and will continue to pray Debra and his children and grandchildren.

– Allison Dean Hughart (nee Lambert)

• Jim Shaddix impacted my life long before I actually met him. The pastor who baptized me, one of my favorite professors, and another pastor whose preaching greatly influenced me all studied under him at the same time. I was also able to do an internship with another pastor who studied under him. Out of all these pastors I looked up to, he was the common denominator. When it was announced that Dr. Shaddix would be joining the faculty at SEBTS, I made it my goal to learn from him. Eventually, that goal became a reality. I had the privilege of studying under Dr. Shaddix for my ThM. That season turned into 3 years of rigorous study, correction, encouragement, and patience. I was a much different student, as well as person, the day I graduated. Dr. Shaddix’s wisdom was profound and his convictions were contagious. I look back with deep gratitude for the time I had with him. It’s been an emotional couple of weeks revisiting much of that season and remembering his impact on my life. Thank you for finishing well, Dr. Shaddix. I look forward to seeing you again.

– Ben Woolbright

• We know him as Pastor Jim. As our loving leader at Riverside Church, Denver, he brought us through a great time of teaching and learning to love each other deeply. We were fortunate to share a loving meal with this family before they went from Riverside to return to Seminary teaching. He was our shepherd, loving prayer partner and a cherished friend.

– Virginia and Bill Todd

• My wife, LaNae and I were blessed to have a few short years of serving alongside and under Pastor Jim’s guidance and direction for what feels like such a short time. Jim and Deborah poured their lives into ours as well as many others and their influence has been instrumental in our service today. I could only hope to in some small way as faithful as Jim. Well done good and faithful servant!

– John Cotten

• Over the last 35 years, Broadmoor Baptist Church (Jackson, MS.), needed interim pastors several times.Two Mississippi College professors, Jim Shaddix & Ivan Parke, filled that role with remarkable effect and aplomb. No one who heard them will EVER forget them. Now we have lost Dr.Shaddix, and Dr. Parke has been given a diagnosis of ALS, Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Let us give thanks for men of God, like these dear brothers. I know Jim Shaddix rejoices today in the presence of Jesus. Let us pray for the Shaddix family. And I solicit your prayers for Ivan Parke and his family.

– Stephen Wright

• I sure am sorry to hear this. I graduated from Southeastern and know that the whole school is empty with his passing. God needed an angel.

– Gaye Frady

• I knew Jim when he was a student at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama. I was the Baptist Campus Minister at JSU and also served as the chaplain of the JSU football team when Jim was a player. After Jim joined the faculty at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (my seminary), I had become the (State Director) of the Campus Ministry team with the Baptist General Association of Virginia and invited Jim to be a speaker at one of our Fall Student Convention. I recall that Jim was not only the main speaker but he had brought one of his NOBTS students with him in order to “coach” this student. I am deeply sad to get this news but I am grateful for the time we shared together in these venues.

– John Tadlock

• Jim Shaddix was a valuable addition to my seminary mentorship. He had come NOBTS to do doctoral work as I labored in the M.Div program. We talked preaching shop from that day to every time our paths crossed. Later, I visiting another friend who had moved from New Orleans to Wake Forest and there was Shaddix again. He was busy that day but took the time to share his latest book and recommendation. Always sharing, smiling, and serving our God. He will be missed. Why? Jim was interesting. RIP!

– A. Ray Campbell M.Div. DMin.