Brian Koonce Stories

Mineral Area Association DOM Bob Curtis pens updated prayer guide

Bob Curtis doesn’t think Missouri Baptists’ prayer lives need anything novel or freshly discovered. In fact, he’s updated a tried and true prayer guide from decades ago that points back to Scripture.

New book shows missionaries’ ministry, martyrdom in Haiti

You may remember reading about Davy and Natalie Lloyd. Missionaries to Haiti who were murdered by gangs in the neighborhood where they served the Lord, their story of faithfulness and sacrifice goes far beyond the headlines.

Providence plays major role in rousing ‘Young Washington’

The fireworks may have fallen silent now that Independence Day has passed, but there’s still plenty time and reason to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America and God’s providence in bringing freedom and prosperity. In that patriotic spirit, I heartily recommend the new film, Young Washington.

Review: ‘God of Liberty’ considers Christianity’s critical role in American Revolution

Though it was published 14 years ago, it’s hard to imagine a more timely read as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Thomas Kidd’s book, "God of Liberty: A Religious History of the American Revolution," cuts through rhetoric and digs far beyond his own denominational identity to deliver exactly what the title promises: a history.

Sight & Sound’s ‘A Great Awakening’ film puts Ben Franklin, George Whitefield on the big screen

As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, it’s difficult to ignore the bitter polarization and loud political strife that seem to tear us apart. Things weren’t always as rosy as we like to imagine, however, and it’s helpful to have a reminder that in times of turmoil and strife, unity, peace, and even revival are possible, at the hand of the one true God.

‘I Can Only Imagine 2’ even better than original

Two things are quite rare in movie theaters: a sequel that is better than the initial film, and a faith-based movie with the cast, story and execution to live up to its admirable goals. "I Can Only Imagine 2," I’m quite pleased to tell you, does both.

A tale of two Ruths: Hollywood offers different takes on biblical romance

It’s February, the month of over-priced flowers, candies shaped like hearts, and sentimental love stories. Christians know the Bible is ultimately a love story about God and His people, but there’s also a standout couple with a romance suitable for the big screen: Ruth and Boaz.

Termite discovery at Salisbury church leads to generosity, hope

What began as a devastating discovery of termites for Pleasant Woods Baptist Church, Salisbury, turned into a blessing far beyond what the congregation could imagine.

Whitten encourages leaders to follow Jesus amid struggles, failure

Ken Whitten closed out the 2025 Missouri Baptist annual meeting in Branson with a reminder of the Apostle Peter’s struggles in ministry, and how Jesus can overcome their own struggles.

HLGU’s ‘Freedom on the Inside’ celebrates first class of graduates inside Missouri prison

Hannibal-LaGrange University's Freedom on the Inside Program, which takes Christian education into Missouri's maximum security prison in Jefferson City, celebrated its first graduating class of 11 students, May 15. The students completed their bachelor of science degrees in biblical studies and are now active in sharing the light of Christ with other men in the state's prison system.

Documentary tells stories of Joplin tornado, leaves out God’s faithfulness

The Netflix documentary about the Joplin tornado is purposefully focused on the storm itself. It devotes just a few scant minutes of its 90-minute runtime to the recovery—although the stories of God’s overwhelming, redemptive presence after the storm are worth a dozen documentaries.

‘Modern-day Macedonian call’: Online connection leads to partnership with Filipino church

Chris Cook, pastor of Parkade Baptist, Columbia, didn’t know what to think when Pastor Mayinto Ganzon reached out to him on Facebook in November of 2023.

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