- Russell Johnson, Pastor, International Bible Baptist Church, Miami, FL
One of the great moments in the story of the children of Israel was their crossing of the Jordan to enter the Promised Land. One of the key elements of the story are the two sets of twelve stones placed both in the middle of the river and on the shore where they crossed over. These stones served to remind all future generations of God’s faithfulness and power.
Throughout Jim and Sharon’s lives we see the solid evidence of God’s hand of blessing and faithfulness. These “stones” are evident during both calm and troubled waters of their life. They can be seen at every stage of their lives and wherever God has led them. I believe Jim and Sharon will continue to point the way to God’s faithfulness and power as they have to me, to my children, and to my grandchildren. This new ministry will make it possible for them to continue to have an impact on the Generations!
- Tim Adrian, Pastor, Westside Baptist Church, Hutchinson, KS
I am thrilled and excited about the potential of the Generations International Ministry. Jim and Sharon Smith, after leading what can only be described as a classic missionary endeavor in Ecuador, bring unique gifts and experience to this type of ministry. I truly believe their personal influence will now be multiplied as they partner with Christian leaders and churches throughout Latin America. I anticipate wonderful reports from these efforts in the years ahead.
In recent years, Jim served as an associate mission director with the Baptist Bible Fellowship International and Sharon served as a teacher and encourager with Pure Joy International. They both possess the specific skill set that this ministry will demand. I love the fact that Jim and Sharon continue to be forward thinking with the Gospel. It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend them and their work to you. It is our joy to be a supporting partner and we ask for your financial consideration as well.
- John Reilly, Pastor, Beacon Baptist Church, Taylor, MI
I have had the privilege to know Jim and Sharon Smith for many years as missionaries to Ecuador, and in his role as an assistant mission director for the BBFI. Two things that I have noticed during this time is their relationship with people. First, I have sensed their love and care for Spanish speaking missionaries and pastors. I have watched them interact at various Fellowship meetings, and been impressed with what I have seen. The second being the relationship that they both have had with our new missionaries. They have connected with these folks and helped them begin the missionary journey. On more than one occasion I have heard these missionaries speak of their appreciation for the assistance they have received from the Smiths. Recently we had Jim in our Missions Emphasis and he did a remarkable job in challenging our people for the cause of world missions. This is their heart! I would encourage you to get behind them, as we are, in supporting this new ministry opportunity.
- Dr. David Perdue, Pastor, First Baptist Church, Milford, DE
It is a privilege to recommend James and Sharon Smith for the special area of ministry to which they are moving. Having worked with Brother Smith in his capacities in the BBFI Missions office, I’ve seen his heart for missionaries and his ability to find ways to help them. We are the sending church of a Missionary family for whom his help made a great difference.
It’s also been my privilege to meet Pastors from “the Spanish-speaking world” who have been impacted by Jim Smith. Sharon’s ministry to Pastors' wives has certainly been and will continue to be significant.
We need to expand our ministries as quickly as we can to all the world, and that certainly includes those serving in other languages.
It is exciting to watch a “new” ministry begin; let’s help it flourish!