Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Max's New Role
What is Max’s medical condition/treatment/prognosis?
Atrial fibrillation—an irregularity of the heartbeat. I am under excellent medical care and have every hope of a full recovery.
Does this mean Max is retiring?
No. I am, however, giving up the mantle of Senior Minister. I will devote my time to preaching and writing.
Is Max leaving Oak Hills Church?
This is too great a church to leave. Besides, Denalyn won’t let me.
Will he still have opportunities to preach at Oak Hills Church?
Absolutely.
Will an interim Senior Minister be named during the search?
No. I will remain in that position until a new Senior Minister is selected.
What’s the timetable for naming a new Sen. Min?
The succession plan has been initiated…as God leads, we will follow.
How will this affect his travel and availability for major speaking events such as Women of Faith?
Our priority is to find the appropriate cardiac treatment. Once my health is stabilized, I will enjoy a full schedule.
Will Max continue to write?
I see writing as my main focus for the foreseeable future.
Who will serve on the search team?
This is yet to be determined.
Couldn’t this medical condition be addressed by reduced responsibilities?
I feel that Oak Hills Church needs a full-time, healthy Senior Minister. I also feel that I stand a better chance of full recovery if I surrender the mantle of Senior Minister.
Are there any underlying issues?
None whatsoever! The church is healthy. We just completed our greatest year of growth. We are nearly debt-free. The team is strong and the elders are loyal. I am at peace with the entire staff and leadership. I am in good standing with the congregation and the city. My marriage has never been better and faith never deeper. This decision is simply what it is: a move of God prompted by the challenges of health.
Is Max’s role change related to the decision not to build a worship center?
No. The health problem surfaced before the fundraising campaign began.
My prayer for us all is to trust God’s sovereign hand. Let’s rally behind the elders and ministers (especially Jim and Mark) and rely on God.
