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Lead pastor of Mabank’s Grace Community Church since 2013, Michael Cooper trusted Christ at age 17 and was called to the ministry at 18. Following college, he earned a doctorate from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and in addition to pastoring, serves as an adjunct college and seminary professor and lecturer. He is active in the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention, this year serving on the credentials committee. Cooper has authored numerous articles and the book Cruciform Identity: Union with Christ and Christian Formation. Cooper and his wife, Kailie, are the proud parents of two little girls, Sophia Grace and Lydia Joy. He is passionate about the history of preaching, severe storm spotting, music, and the Dallas Cowboys.
What have you been celebrating at the church lately?
We’ve been in a state of transition. We moved into our new worship space in 2023. While we’ve had some ups and downs, God has been faithful to provide an abundance of grace. There is a renewed focus on discipleship.
What are some ways the church is ministering to the Mabank community?
We are prioritizing outreach in various ways. In the spring we had 30 members go knocking on doors. We have a presence in the community. Recently, we had specific conferences dedicated to reaching students, women, and men.
What is one thing you are praying will happen over the next year at Grace?
A renewed focus on missions. This past summer, a group from the church went on a domestic mission trip to North Carolina. This was a first for our church. I pray that this will continue.
What’s one thing you have learned to this point of your life and ministry you know you will never forget?
How difficult it is to maintain healthy boundaries in life and ministry. I have to own my “stuff.” Be quick to repent, forgive, and love.
How can other SBTC churches be praying for you and your ministry?
Continued faithfulness to keep plodding well. My revised dissertation, based on the theology of preaching of 17th century pastor Benjamin Keach, is being published by Wipf and Stock in 2026. I am beginning the slow work of revision. Pray for sustained personal growth and intimacy with Christ.
