Paul Chappell: Shane Lewis: Friends and Mentors Now in Heaven Series

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As I was recently browsing old photos, I was blessed to realize that God has allowed me to know some truly great men. Throughout this summer, I’m sharing some of these pictures and memories to introduce readers of this blog to some of these men.

Shane Lewis

Unique Trait: Wisdom

Pastor Shane Lewis was a man of principle, character, and integrity. The Lord called him to Heaven four years ago this month (June 21, 2020) after a hard-fought battle with leukemia.

I loved Pastor Lewis’ commitment to Scripture and the fact that his friendships were based on others’ commitments to the Word of God as well. He was not as loyal to institutions as he was to biblical principle.

Shane pastored the Sommerville Baptist Church in Sommerville, Alabama, for nearly sixteen years. The first time I preached on the same platform with my son, Larry, was at the Southwide Baptist Fellowship hosted by Pastor Lewis and Sommerville Baptist. I remember him being a great friend to us both and his kindness to Larry at that meeting. 

Pastor Lewis and his wife, Joy, served the Lord together with such love for people and a heart for souls. It was a blessing to see them raise their five children to love the Lord and serve people. 

I remember sharing a few rounds of golf with Shane in the Palm Springs area (see picture above). He enjoyed being outdoors and loved God’s creation. 

While Pastor Lewis had concerns regarding various institutions and movements within independent Baptist circles, he was never quick to act on emotion. Rather, he was patient to search out matters diligently and separate only based on verified concerns over biblical truth.

When I think of Pastor Lewis, I’m reminded of James 3:16, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.” I will always be thankful for the gift of Shane Lewis’ friendship.

Previous posts in this series: 

• Dave McCoy
• Lee Roberson

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