Inaugural blog from Rev. Dr. Dallas H. Wilson, Jr.
August 3rd, 2024 - 3 minute read
In my first blog attempt, I invite you to join me with smiles, prayers, and encouragement in this opening post. I will explore the transition from pulpit retirement to engaging in the Great Commission Ministry through biblical counseling. My initial realization was the lack of readiness for individual counseling compared to the structured ministry of the pulpit. While pulpit ministry involves preparation and speaking to a large audience, biblical counseling demands daily interactions and discussions, addressing people's struggles and joys to guide them towards Jesus.
Unlike the scheduled services of pulpit ministry, biblical counseling occurs daily as we engage with individuals in Charleston, South Carolina, listening to their stories and guiding them towards healing and faith. Our daily actions in counseling reflect our role in leading others to the loving embrace of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. It is a continuous journey of helping others find solutions and surrender their lives to Christ, subtly impacting lives without realizing the profound impact of our actions.
In 2017, I made a significant shift from the traditional church setting to join a faith-based nonprofit founded by my wife, Dr. Janie Dingle Wilson, in 2015. My wife's vision for helping the disenfranchised and neglected communities became our focus. She transformed from being a supportive partner to leading with the mission given by God, addressing the unmet needs of individuals facing daily struggles, unlike the church's limited outreach through weekly services.
The people we now serve are those marginalized by society—struggling with poverty, absent parents, incarceration, and limited education. Despite some appearing resilient outwardly, they lack hope and face daily challenges. Our encounter with them is guided by sharing the gospel, offering hope and healing derived from God's unwavering love and sovereignty. We aim to build meaningful relationships and provide support beyond superficial interactions, introducing them to a compassionate Savior through our actions.
Engaging with individuals in dire circumstances has highlighted the importance of relational skills, evangelism, and discipleship. Our efforts in personal interactions yield rewarding outcomes, sometimes not immediately visible but always impactful. Through this transition, we have realized the power of personal connections in transforming lives and bringing hope to those who have been overlooked by our communities.
Have you ever heard the saying, "If I love something, I'd do it for free"? While most of our services are provided free of charge, the invaluable rewards we receive in return are immeasurable. Picture someone entering your office devoid of hope, unemployed, hungry, and feeling invisible to those around them. Through our sessions, we witness a transformation as they embrace hope and light up with purpose, guided by the principles of God's Word and the Great Commission to build relationships and foster involvement.
Engaging in this ministry has been a profound calling from the Lord, leading me to see individuals through the lens of Jesus rather than worldly judgments. Through this ministry, I have experienced personal transformation, becoming a messenger of reconciliation and a true ambassador for Christ empowered by the Holy Spirit. While I do not belittle traditional ministry, the tangible impact and positive outcomes of biblical counseling are undeniable. I am grateful for the transition from one form of ministry to another, as it allows me to witness the transformative power of God in a more direct and personal manner.
Biblical counseling is a divine blessing. Our guidance is viewed through the lens and rooted in Scripture. Our worldview is shaped by the Truth of God’s words—the Bible. We cherish the ultimate Special Revelation of Isaiah 9:6, proclaiming Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. This truth is the foundation of our work — guiding, comforting, and leading others towards transformation and peace through the powerful name of Jesus Christ, the ultimate source of love, wisdom and peace.
In Him, and for Him, Alone…
Brother Dallas+
The Rev. Dr. Dallas H Wilson, Jr.
(843) 830-4640