Who is Mike?
Mike Thompson was born in Spartanburg, SC and grew up in Florence, SC. After spending time in the army, Mike landed in Greenville, SC where he currently resides. He is a proud alumnus of North Greenville University where he received his bachelors. He went on to receive a Master’s in Ministry from Rockbridge Seminary. Since joining the ministry, Mike has been on staff with Forestville Baptist Church in Travelers Rest, SC, FBC Eutawville, SC, and currently serves as Executive Pastor of Lake Bowen Baptist in Inman, SC.
Mike has been married to his bride, Karen, since 1994, and has two beautiful daughters, Michaela and Marissa. Together, they spend as much time as possible enjoying each other, attending plays, and going to the movies. In fact, since he lives in a house with all girls, he has seen every Disney movie ever made. Some of Mike’s favorite movies include Braveheart, The Patriot, Star Wars (yes, all of them), Elf, and It’s a Wonderful Life.
Pastor
Preaching, counseling, mentoring, and administrating this vibrant church in Inman, SC, Mike currently serves as Executive Pastor at Lake Bowen Baptist Church to deliver the gospel, disciple the Christian, and deploy the Christ follower.
Published Author
In 2007, Mike authored the book, Dealing with the Diagnosis, the true story about learning about his MS while serving as a youth pastor in Greenville, SC. Currently, Mike is writing a follow up book on the subject after living with MS challenges for 25 years. Mike also writes for Home Life magazine and Open Windows.
Certified Coach
Mike has been coaching pastors, staff, and business owners since 2005 when he received training from the Pastor’s Coaching Network. Mike is currently certified in coaching through Five Capitals and continues with regular developmental classes.
HR Certified
Certified as a Human Resource Ministry Professional by HR Ministry Solutions in 2020. Mike coaches churches to assist them in becoming HR Compliant.
Call Center Supervisor
For ten years Mike worked in the Call Center industry. Mike has worked in multiple operational positions from answering the phones, training new hires, developing a new division, and supervising a team of 30. Over the years Mike successfully developed teams to perform at an excellent rate compared to given metrics.
Board Member
Mike served as a member of the board from 2010-2014 on the South Carolina Protection and Advocacy for People with Disabilities, whose mission is to enable individuals to advocate for themselves on cases of discrimination and promote policies and services which respect their choices.
Army Veteran
Mike served from 1987-1991. After completing Basic Training at Ft. Jackson, SC he was stationed at Ft. Bliss in El Paso, TX. Mike’s final assignment was at the Presidio in Monterey, CA as a Chinese Linguist.
How can Mike encourage you to see obstacles as godly opportunities?
At Your church, your organization, & your large gatherings
Mike delivers the message of God’s Word alongside his personal story. He is gifted to share in such a transparent, relational way that each hearer can relate with the message. Whenever Mike speaks, people express their gratitude to him for allowing them to see a way of hope during difficult situations. Would you prayerfully consider Mike bringing an encouraging message of hope to your congregation.
Focusing on your special event
Marriage: Mike and Karen had been married only three and a half years when Mike received the diagnosis of MS. The wedding vows they said to one another “For better or worse and in sickness and health” would be put to the test. For twenty-nine years Mike and Karen have learned to live in a new normal as they raised two daughters, managed careers, and navigated church life. Mike and Karen have a fun delivery as they share their testimony of developing a marriage of hope when nothing turns out the way you planned.
Men’s Events: What does a “real” man look like? To many this type of man has all the answers, leads his family to happiness, and has the perfect look. The reality is that this is just an image that too many men are chasing and live in guilt when they do not attain the “real” man status. Mike is able to share his story of struggles with image and obstacles to assist men in finding their true identity in Christ.
Coaching your next step
With 30 years of ministry experience Mike has served in various staff roles, built ministry structures and teams, and developed financial systems for multiple size churches. Mike desires to assist you by coaching you to desired goals. Coaching is not about instruction but in coming along side of you to develop a strategic plan to take you to the next level personally or in a ministry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the immune system attacks the nervous system leaving “pot holes” on the Mylene sheath of the nerve usually in the brain or neck. Over time, the signal from the brain never reaches the body part it is aimed at. MS affects every person differently but in Mike’s case this has caused an inability to move his legs and struggles with the right hand. Since there is no cure for MS, the disease will continue to cause disabilities in the body.
What is Mike’s style of delivery?
Mike introduces humor in every message as he teaches an expositional message while weaving the grace of God found in the Gospel of Christ. His laid-back approach allows listeners to relate to his message of hope.
What age group will benefit from listening to Mike?
Mike has the ability to tailor the message to all age levels from Youth to Senior Adult. Everyone will be inspired as they listen to Mike point the way to living the life of a disciple.
What does Mike charge?
Mike operates on a love offering basis. The only consideration is that the love offering cover travel expenses.
What accommodations are needed?
Mike uses a power wheelchair so a ramp is required to enter the building if the entrance is not on the ground level. A wheelchair accessible restroom is needed. Since most platforms are not accessible via wheelchair, Mike can speak from the main floor. Please do not plan on lifting the wheelchair to a platform as it can cause damage to the power wheelchair.
Will Mike need a hotel?
It depends on the distance that is driven. In the event that a hotel is required, Mike will make the reservations as he will need to ensure it will accommodate his needs.
