Allen Coker

Growing up – preaching for Allen Coker was “doing something as natural to me as breathing.” Even before his birth his mom in a “Hannah moment”- as Allen describes it- “devoted” him to God. As a blessed result Allen began developing his preaching gift as a part of a young man’s training class at the Tilden Church of Christ in Fulton, MS.

He admits that “it’s not that easy anymore,” but he still feels a great “sense of fulfillment” as he preaches every Sunday at the National Park Church in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Allen’s journey to a life of dedicated ministry began in earnest after spending one year of study at Mississippi State University. Entering his sophomore year he enrolled at Magnolia Bible College in Kosciusko, Mississippi. He remained there first as a student (earning his BA in Bible in 2000) and then effectively serving the college in the recruiting, fundraising, financial and institutional research departments for twelve years.  His last position for the college was Chief Administrative Officer. He also was a member of MBC’s outstanding singing group, Zomen, and through this ministry traveled nationwide blessing people through the gift of praise. He states, “Some of my fondest times were spent with students at the dormitory, singing in the college’s quartet, and hosting youth events on campus.” Allen is truly a fine young man of multiple gifts- all of which he uses to God’s glory for the kingdom’s sake.

His ministry in Kosciusko was not limited to the college. Allen served as a deacon for the South Huntington Church of Christ with particular emphasis on their benevolent food ministry, ”Five Loaves” (which he co-founded), and their pre-school program. Allen also led the other deacons in vision and budget planning.

All of this richly varied ministry experience taught Allen “valuable lessons about serving in the church,” and prepared him well for his ministry at the National Park Church. He describes this church as a family who “loves, cares, and is active in serving each other and the community.”

Allen has a love and respect for the text of Scripture and theology. He enjoys the opportunity to “go deep” into theological studies and discussion. He also enjoys reading and the challenge of leadership. His current pursuit of an MA in Leadership and Management at Amridge University provides him the chance to fulfill all these passions.

About his ministry he says, “My ministry has been enriched by studying other disciplines. I have also developed a passion for discipleship, church planting and church multiplication. I look forward to where these new ideas might lead.”

Wherever they may lead, Allen will have his sweet wife of fourteen years, Kristy, and their talented children Holley (who is 12) and Drew (who is 4) there by his side. Allen rejoices in the tremendous gift of his family and the support he receives from them. “Kristy is a big supporter of me and the work I do,” he shares and “truly is a fellow-laborer.” Holley and Drew are “full of joy, well-adjusted, smart and tender-hearted.”

Allen remains energized and excited about his ministry. He admits struggling with the often slow pace of church ministry. Because of this “it’s hard to evaluate the impact you’re making.” Even so he rejoices in seeing lives transformed. He shares, “It is amazing to me what God can and does do in our hearts and lives. I love to see him working!”

Without a doubt God continues to work in Allen’s life. He is a highly effective “planter and gardener in God’s field” who uses his many gifts to strengthen and grow God’s  kingdom.

Thank you Allen for fulfilling your mother’s desire by dedicating your life to preaching and ministry. Indeed many have been blessed on the kingdom path your “beautiful feet” have walked.

• To hear Allen’s preach go here.
• You can read Allen’s blog here
• Here is Allen’s Facebook Page
• His twitter account is @allencoker

Let Allen know how much you appreciate his ministry by sharing an encouraging word with him.