Meet President-Elect
Dr. Ryan Blackwell
Ministry Experience
- Executive and Teaching Pastor, Cross Church – Springdale, Arkansas (2020-Present)
- Senior Pastor, First Baptist Church – San Francisco, California (2010-2019)
- Pastor of Young Adults, Cross Church – Springdale, Arkansas (2009-2010)
- Interim Senior Pastor, Abiding Way – San Anselmo, California (2008-2009)
- Minister of Education and Youth, Abiding Way – San Anselmo, California (2007-2008)
- Student Ministry Associate, Southern Hills Baptist Church – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (2004-2006)
Education
- D.Min., Gateway Seminary
- M.Div., Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary
- B.A., Oklahoma Baptist University
Lifeway trustees elect Ryan Blackwell as president and CEO
Lifeway Christian Resources trustees elected Dr. Ryan Blackwell as the organization’s 11th president and CEO during a special called meeting April 22 in Nashville.
“I’m deeply humbled and grateful to be given this opportunity by the trustees. Lifeway has a long and faithful history of serving churches, and I’m honored to step into this role at such a pivotal time,” Blackwell said. “I love the local church and believe deeply in its mission. My heart is to serve pastors and church leaders by helping provide biblically faithful resources that strengthen discipleship and advance the gospel.”
Blackwell, 42, comes to Lifeway from his role as executive pastor and teaching pastor at Cross Church in Springdale, Arkansas, where he has served since 2020. During his tenure, Blackwell provided leadership development, strategic planning and organizational alignment as the church grew from 7,000 to more than 11,000 in weekly attendance and expanded to a fourth campus. Prior to joining the staff at Cross Church, he served as senior pastor at First Baptist Church of San Francisco for nearly a decade, leading the revitalization of this historic congregation from 2010 to 2019.
A native of Arkansas, Blackwell grew up at Cross Church and previously served as its pastor of young adults. He has served in local church ministry for more than 20 years, including various ministry roles at churches in California, Arkansas and Oklahoma.
“When I look back over the ministry journey the Lord has taken me on, I can see how faithful He has been in every season,” Blackwell said. “I’ve had the opportunity to serve in different churches and contexts, and to learn through seasons of growth and change. At the same time, I’m very aware I have nothing to offer apart from the Spirit’s power at work.”
He graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in Religion. He holds a Master of Divinity degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from Gateway Seminary.
Blackwell and his wife, Rachel, have been married since 2006 and have three children—Brady, Allie, and Mae.
He will assume the role of Lifeway president on June 1, succeeding Joe Walker, who has served as interim president since July 2025.
“We have a real opportunity to serve churches in a rapidly changing ministry landscape,” Blackwell said. “My desire is for Lifeway to continue building on its strong foundation while finding new ways to equip leaders, reach the next generation and help churches make disciples. I’m excited to listen, learn and lead alongside this team as we serve Southern Baptist churches and other believers around the world.”
The Blackwell Family
Ryan, Rachel, Brady, Allie, and Mae
Affirmations of Dr. Ryan Blackwell as President
“The search committee and I couldn’t be more thrilled that Ryan will serve as the 11th president and CEO of Lifeway. After diligently seeking the Lord throughout this important assignment, we are convinced Ryan is an innovative leader who will shepherd Lifeway into the future with a clear sense of purpose.”
“I’m thankful for Ryan’s humble spirit, theological conviction, thoughtful curiosity and commitment to the local church, and I’m excited for Lifeway’s future under his leadership, oversight and care.”
“Ryan’s heart beats for the local church, and I’m confident of his ability to lead Lifeway into a bright future of serving churches worldwide. While this transition is a significant loss for Cross Church, it is a massive win for Lifeway and Southern Baptists.”
“Ryan leads out of his authentic walk with Jesus. He lives with humility and confidence. He has proven to be effective in a variety of ministry settings. I know Ryan loves the local church and is deeply committed to helping our churches make disciples of Jesus.”
“I’ve been privileged to work with Ryan in both academics and church. He is a multi-gifted man and a capable leader who displays both confidence and a humble spirit. Ryan possesses strong executive and administrative skills, which have been evident everywhere he has been.”
“Ryan is a servant leader who follows Christ wherever He may lead. God has uniquely gifted him with the ability to teach and preach the Word with a true passion for people. I know him as a man of humility, kindness, sincerity, and wisdom. As someone who has been the beneficiary of Lifeway products and resources, I am excited to see how God will use him to impact the Kingdom through Lifeway for such a time as this.”
