Jimmy Jividen (1929–2014)

He was a gospel preacher and author for over 60 years. Jimmy preached in local congregations and/or established congregations in Texas, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Colorado, Nebraska, and California. In 1958 he received his MA in New Testament from ACC before York College recruited him to teach Bible and Greek. While at York he enjoyed mentoring many students. He did his doctoral work in Religion at the University of Southern California from 1960-1964. He was preaching minister at three congregations in Abilene: Hillcrest, Baker Heights, and Oldham Lane. While at Hillcrest he initiated “The Discipleship Program”, mentoring students from Abilene Christian University who had a desire to serve in the Lord’s church. Many of those students still serve, using lessons they learned and practiced in that program. Seeing the need for written material on biblical teaching, Jimmy wrote ten books to spread God’s message throughout the world. Some of his books have been translated into several languages. Articles that he has written have been published in numerous periodicals. He has held seminars and gospel meetings in most states and many countries. He continued preaching, teaching, and writing even while struggling with the effects of Parkinson’s. The messages he brought were always an encouragement to the people who heard him.

Christian colleges and universities throughout the country have invited Jimmy to speak at lectureships and have recognized his role in training men to lead congregations in staying true to God‘s will. He has received awards from Harding University, Abilene Christian College, and Faulkner University. He has served on the board of the Restoration Quarterly and the ACU Alumni Association, serving for a time as president of both groups.