The eternal value of faithful saints who have gone before us is difficult to put into words. It’s one thing to read about the missionaries of old — the pioneers who heralded the gospel years before we were even a thought. It’s another thing altogether to have the privilege to know and hear from such pioneers.
On September 12, 2019, we honored the legacy and ministry of Dr. George Braswell and his wife, Joan, in the dedication of the George Braswell Missions and World Religions Library. The Braswells were the first SBC missionaries sent out to serve in Iran in 1968, and Dr. Braswell left the field to teach here at Southeastern in the ‘70s. Their passion to go to the field, tenacity in finding a way to stay there, and endurance through years of ministry is inspiring to say the least. As Southeastern President Dr. Danny Akin said, “It would not be an exaggeration to say George Braswell is like the Apostle Paul of Iran.”
During the dedication, Dr. Braswell referred to the day as “a sacred moment.” He reminisced on the great impact of SEBTS in the life of he and his bride. He spoke of dear partnerships in the Gospel. He acknowledged fellow missionaries in the room and pointed toward the Lord’s faithfulness in allowing Gospel seeds to grow and be evidenced around our campus.
It was certainly a sacred day for us, as well, as Dr. Braswell gifted us with a tangible reminder of the work God accomplishes when we entrust our lives and futures to Him. Brothers and sisters, may we walk in obedience to the Gospel of Christ and be faithful to heed so great a legacy!
Below is an in-depth interview with Dr. Braswell. We invite you to grab a cup of coffee or tea, settle in and enjoy. You won’t regret it.
To read more about the life and ministry of Dr. Braswell, you can read an interview from the Southeastern Theological Review. You can also see more photos from the day here. The library is open to all and can be found in the Jacumin-Simpson Building on Southeastern’s campus.
