Frank W. Smith Excellence in Ministry

The 2019 recipient of the Frank W. Smith Excellence in Ministry award is Dr. David L. Cole.

David Cole has served Open Bible and the greater body of Christ in many capacities as a pastor, educator, and bridge builder across the ecclesial spectrum.

Dr. Cole served on the faculty of Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, prior to transferring to Eugene Bible College in Eugene, Oregon. There he served as director of student development and theology instructor, and eventually became EBC’s president from 1998-2010. Following his tenure at EBC he served on staff at Briercrest College and Seminary in Saskatchewan, Canada, from 2010 to 2013. Since that time he has served at The King’s University and Seminary in Southlake, Texas. He currently oversees the school’s Doctor of Ministry program, Master of Divinity, Master of Practical Theology, and Master of Marriage and Family Therapy degrees. He also serves on Open Bible’s Commission on Biblical Education and Ministerial training.

In 2010 Dr. Cole was appointed by PCCNA as a liaison to the greater Christian community. He has engaged in research that specializes in Pentecostal history and theology, and he has been involved as a Pentecostal in a variety of national and international dialogues between Pentecostals and/or Evangelicals and other church families from across the ecclesial spectrum, seeking ways to help build bridges of cooperation and unity in fulfillment of the Great Commission.

Dr. Cole’s credentials for receiving this award are now permanently stated on a plaque in the national office along with the names and qualifications of previous recipients. Congratulations, Dr. Cole!