Michael Milton

Michael Milton and Faith for Living, Inc.

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September 19, 2012

When Sam Heard God

From the RTS Communications Office: Dr. Milton wrote this in honor of The Rev. Sam Patterson, founder of RTS, as he reflected on the inaugural events. A framed copy has been provided to Sam’s daughter in his honor.

When Sam Heard God

A Message from 1 Samuel 3:6 Dedicated to the Memory and Christian Service of the Founder of RTS: The Reverend Samuel Patterson

By Michael A. Milton, Ph.D.
Chancellor & CEO
James M. Baird Chair of Pastoral Theology

And the Lord called again, “Samuel!” and Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he said, “I did not call, my son; lie down again.” Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him.

Sam Patterson was in his second year of seminary. He was seeking to prepare for ministry. But he did not know God. Therefore, he could not truly hear God. Like Samuel, there was a divine drawing towards God. Yet before he could hear a call to ministry he had to have a call to know God by faith.

On the last day in February, 1940, Sam Patterson was converted to Jesus Christ. He could then discern the calling. He could recognize the voice of God on his soul because God had revealed His Word to Him. There would have been no WWII Navy chaplain who led men to Christ without that sacred encounter. There would have been no pastor who cared for and shepherded so many lambs of the Lord to their true Shepherd. There would have been no Reformed Theological Seminary if Sam Patterson had not heard the voice of the One he knew personally.

As I look towards being installed this Friday to follow Sam in his office and in the seminary he envisioned I am thankful that Sam heard the God who revealed Himself through Christ.

Sam was saved in a seminary. Imagine that. No, really—imagine that. We must remain committed to seeing RTS as a response to God’s Word existing to call others with God’s Word, so that some will hear, some will be saved, so that many will be gathered together safe in the arms of Jesus when He comes again.

When Samuel—and Sam—heard God’s call countless others would hear God’s call as well.

And is that Voice now calling you?

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Faith For Living
Faith For Living

Commited to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Why I Am Optimistic
byDr. Michael Milton

Faith For Living with Dr. Michael Milton
March 14, 2023
– A study from Acts 28:16-31.


https://accradio.com/programs/erskinefaithforliving/faithforliving031423.mp3

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Why I Am Optimistic
Why I Am Optimistic
March 14, 2023
Dr. Michael Milton
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What is Faith For Living?

Faith for Living is the 501c3 North Carolina non-profit ministry of the Rev. Michael A. Milton, Ph.D. that exists to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ to as many people as possible, through every means available, so that there will be a multitude caught up to be with Jesus Christ when He comes again. Faith for Living reaches out to support individuals, the Church, and other non-profits through communication, discipleship, and education.

Featured Music of Michael Milton

“Christ is Risen” words & music by Michael Anthony Milton
© 1999, 2012, 2020, 2021 Bethesda Music (a div. of Faith for Living, Inc.) | BMI | CCLI

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