Dr. William H. Willimon was Minister to the University and Professor of the Practice of the Christian Ministry at Duke University in Durham, NC. The scripture reading is from Matthew 3:13-15. The theme of his message is "Christians are made, not born." The message focuses on the subject of baptism and its implications on the daily life of a Christian, especially as seen in Romans 6.
William Randall Lolley was the third President of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. This chapel convocation marked the thirtieth academic year of Southeastern. The service begins with prayer, welcome, and scripture readings (0:00-4:54). After which, there is a reading of news headlines from the year Southeastern was founded (4:55-10:31). This is followed by a recognition of new professors (10:32-14:59). President Lolley is introduced, and verses from Habakkuk 1-3 are read (15:00-20:26). There is then a period of singing (20:27-25:12). Lolley begins his sermon on Habakkuk themed “living by faith.” He begins with an introduction on the importance and context of the book (25:13-33:10). Lolley then explains two lessons Habakkuk learned, perspective on the world, and insight into the self-defeating aspect of evil (33:11-45:07). He concludes by explaining the implications of living by faith (45:08-48:09). A closing prayer is then offered (48:10-48:56).
Dr. Isam E. Bellenger was the Southern Baptist Foreign Mission Board Director for Europe and the Middle East. The service begins by a reading from a Hymnal (0:00-2:07), which is followed by a prayer (2:08-3:14). Dr. Bellenger is then introduced (3:15-6:07), which is then followed by two songs (6:08-11:10). Dr. Bellenger begins by expressing how important it is to be a continuous learner (11:11-15:00). He then states that while many are opposed to change in the church, the church must be open to learn (15:01-20:00). He continues by sharing that the main theme of his message is how knowledge and love are inseparable for the believer (20:01-22:31). He reads John 4:7-26, the main passage for his message (22:32-26:06). Dr. Bellenger explains the relationship between knowledge and love (26:06-31:32). Finally, he applies this to his audience, demonstrating that their knowledge of God should invoke a response of love to their neighbors (31:33-39:15). The service is concluded in prayer (39:15-41:43).