An Honorable Accomplishment
Jeremy Lefler, MDiv
“Therefore every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner
of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old.” (Matthew 13:52)
Congratulations to Jeremy Lefler,
About seven years ago many things lined up for five brothers to benefit from formal education at accredited universities. Four of the five went to Harding Graduate School. Over a year ago Dave Pocta graduated from Lubbuck Christian College. Winston Batino, AT Arneson and James Becknell are currently attending Harding where Jeremy Lefler graduated this month with a Master’s in Divinity.
Among the five students Jeremy is the academic standout. In fact, among the Midwest ministers Jeremy is the best Bible scholar. He graduated with straight A’s from one of the most rigorous universities in Biblical Education. Jeremy’s assignments and papers have received very high commendations. A few years back I received a letter from one of his professors who was hoping that Jeremy could move to the school in the pursuit of a PHD. In persuading language he said:
I am writing with regard to Jeremy Lefler - an outstanding student with incredible potential. As you can imagine, Jeremy absolutely excelled over the last three semesters in Greek - he combines an incredible memory with a "sense" for language and a ready eagerness to learn. Perhaps even more important, he has a true heart for people and love of ministry.
Jeremy’s coursework was extensive and contributes to what others have to offer. Here are some of the twenty-six courses that he took: Corinthian Letters, Congregational Development, Hebrew and Greek languages, Exegesis, Global Evangelism, Historical Books of the Old Testament, Early and Medieval Church, the Reformation and Modern Church, American Restoration Movement, Family Development and Parenting, the Gospels – The Life of the Christ, Counseling Skills and Preaching.
For the last six years Jeremy served in the city ministry, officiating worship and attending school. Two months ago the Lefler family transferred to the Metro Ministry Center to be part of the staff, helping with Youth and Family as well as teaching.
Jeremy’s wife, Mwende, has been a big part of his success. She helped him immensely. Over the last few years they have had to contend with one of the greatest trials of a homeowner I have ever heard of—a poorly built condominium with seepage sewage and mold problems. Jeremy and Mwende had a great attitude during this struggle. Nonetheless, Jeremy was not deterred in his quest for academic excellence.
He also had the support of his parents James and Virginia Lefler of the Central Ministry Center, where his father is an elder. Every once in awhile I hear of a student explain why they can’t do well in school. Our standard for learning is Jesus Christ. Even at the age of twelve it was said of him: “Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers” (Luke 2:47). Even before he entered the university this was Jeremy’s goal. I am glad to see that he has spiritually matured over the last seven years, not just gotten smarter.
Jeremy is an effective communicator and teacher and he can also be a surprisingly powerful preacher. May God use him to help the rest of us find new treasures from God’s Word.
Steve Staten, oversight Teacher, Chicago
