Carol and I often encounter surprises on our trips. Sometimes they are unpleasant, such as when our tire blew out while driving 70 mph. That was exciting, but an experience I don't recommend. But most of our surprises are pleasant and encouraging. Such was the case when we met Tim and Beverly.
While in Southern California for our annual USS Yorktown Survivor's Reunion (for which I served as chaplain), we attended Shadow Mountain Community Church where Dr. David Jeremiah is senior pastor. As the meeting began, I noticed a gentleman across the aisle and I whispered to Carol, "That's Dr. Tim LaHaye."
I have known of the LaHayes for about 40 years. Dr. LaHaye has written approximately 80 books and I've read a number of them. A book that helped Carol and me early in our marriage is Tim's first book: Spirit Controlled Temperament. Originally published in 1966 when Carol and I were married (it's still in my library), it was updated and republished in 1994. I highly recommend it.
After the benediction I asked Dr. LaHaye if he had any lunch plans. He said, "I do now."
As we sat across the table at Janet's Café -- one of the LaHaye's favorite places -- I looked forward to our visit. And what a surprise! Celebrating his 89th birthday the previous week, both Tim and Beverly have sharp wits, great sense of humor, and keen minds for history -- both Biblical and secular.
This article is not for the purpose of recounting the LaHaye's outstanding and prolific history but allow me to share some of it.
Brother Tim LaHaye had been the pastor of the Scott Memorial Baptist Church (now called Shadow Mountain Community Church) in El Cajon, Calif., -- a suburb of San Diego -- for 25 years. During that time he and Beverly hosted a radio program entitled The LaHayes on Family Life which later became a television program. He started a Christian school system which included ten schools, and founded Christian Heritage College. The LaHayes were major players in founding the Moral Majority, and with Dr. Henry Morris co-founded the Institute for Christian Research. The main Institute relocated to Dallas, but the museum is in Santee (adjacent to El Cajon), and we visit it periodically.
In 1981, Dr. LaHaye conducted a seminar at Blackhawk Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, Ind., where Dr. Jeremiah was pastor. At that time Brother LaHaye felt impressed to invite Brother Jeremiah to succeed him as pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church.
Among her many endeavors, Beverly LaHaye is known world-wide as the founder and Chairman of the Board for Concerned Women for America and The Beverly LaHaye Institute -- the research arm of CWA. Beverly, herself a noted author, helped Tim write the book The Act of Marriage, which has sold more than 2.5 million copies.
Dr. LaHaye co-authored with Jerry Jenkins the all-time best-seller Left Behind series. A renowned teacher on Bible prophecy, Tim has often been a featured guest on national television programs such as Larry King Live and Good Morning America. As one of the most influential evangelical leaders in the world, the public wanted to hear directly from Dr. LaHaye his views on Bible prophecy as it relates to world history.
Our discussion covered issues from church history, church politics, writing, and world-views, to personal history and family life. (They were surprised that we have 32 grandchildren.) Current world events were a major topic, for it reflects deeply on Bible prophecy.
Tim LaHaye is a prolific writer -- a master in the field -- so I was happily surprised when after one verbal exchange he asked, "May I quote you on that?" Laughing, I quickly responded, "No. I give the idea to you. Write it as your own thought." He laughed and said he would try to "fit it in" in his next book.
The LaHayes are delightful people. They've been married for 68 years and have four children and nine grandchildren. Although Tim has curtailed most outside activities, including conducting seminars, to be with and care for his beloved Beverly, they nevertheless remain well-versed on what is going on in the world.
I highly respect them for their steadfast faith in and devotion to Jesus Christ, as well as their deep and enduring love for and devotion to each other. I thank the Lord for Tim and Beverly LaHaye, and for what they have done for the church and for the world throughout their lives.
-- Gene Linzey is a speaker, author, and former pastor. Send comments and questions to [email protected]. The opinions expressed are those of the author.
Religion on 06/24/2015