Jack Hyles

Jack Hyles (1926–2001) was a prominent American pastor, author, and influential leader within the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement. Born on September 25, 1926, in Italy, Texas, Hyles grew up in a modest home, enduring significant hardships during his early years. These experiences shaped his resilience and commitment to ministry.

After serving in the United States Army during World War II, Hyles felt a calling to the ministry and pursued theological training at East Texas Baptist University. He began his pastoral career in small churches across Texas before becoming the pastor of Miller Road Baptist Church in Garland, Texas, where he oversaw remarkable growth in the congregation.

In 1959, Hyles became the pastor of First Baptist Church of Hammond, Indiana, a position he held for over 40 years. Under his leadership, the church grew to become one of the largest congregations in America, with tens of thousands of members and a global influence. Hyles emphasized aggressive evangelism, bus ministry outreach, and the establishment of Hammond Baptist Schools and Hyles-Anderson College, an institution dedicated to training pastors, missionaries, and Christian educators.

Hyles authored numerous books and sermon collections, focusing on Christian living, evangelism, and pastoral leadership. Titles like Let’s Go Soul Winning and Meet the Holy Spirit became staples within Independent Baptist circles, reflecting his passion for evangelism and his practical approach to ministry.

Although his ministry was marked by significant accomplishments, Hyles’ tenure was not without controversy, including allegations and criticisms regarding church leadership practices. Nonetheless, his legacy as a pioneering figure in the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement remains influential.

Jack Hyles passed away on February 6, 2001. His impact continues through the institutions he founded, the lives he influenced, and the many pastors and leaders shaped by his ministry philosophy.