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In 2020, Rocky Weatherford returned to First Baptist Church Tool for a second stint as pastor. He has also pastored four other churches in Texas over the last 37 years and served local Baptist associations in several positions. He has been a Lifeway trustee and served the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention as vice chairman and chairman of the executive board. Weatherford was among those who were instrumental in helping found the SBTC a quarter century ago. He and his wife, Marsha, have been married for almost 48 years. They have three adult children and three grandchildren.
What is something you’ve been able to celebrate at FBC Tool recently?
Over the last five years, in spite of the challenges of the pandemic, the economy, and the secularization of society, we have seen people respond to the gospel. We have baptized an average of eight people each year. We are seeing real spiritual growth in our youth, as well.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your ministry lately?
Honestly, there have been two: encouraging our people to grow spiritually and the problem of church insurance. Our premiums have tripled since I came back to the church. A lot of churches around here are being forced to either drop insurance coverage or opt for liability coverage only.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned to this point of your ministry you know you’ll never forget?
The best lesson I have learned is to remember that I am called to whatever God desires me to do. Sometimes that’s been serving in a church and sometimes a college. I always thought I was called to pastor a church, but a friend told me, “No. You are just called. You have to do what God tells you to do.”
What’s one thing you’d like to see God do specifically at FBC Tool this year?
This year my goal is to build spiritual leadership. There is a desperate need for men and women to grow spiritually and to step up and lead under the Lord’s direction in the various ministries of the church.
How can the other churches of the SBTC be praying for you?
My prayer is that God would become real to us. I am amazed at how many Christians will say they have never heard God speak. I want to see God become personally real to each member of FBC Tool. When He becomes real in our lives, we are much more effective in sharing Him with others.
