John Phillips (aka JP) is the Student Pastor at First Baptist Church. JP has over 22 years of experience influencing the hearts and lives of students from many different backgrounds in many different settings. He has a passion for seeing students impact a bigger world than themselves. JP completed a B.S. in Religion at Liberty University and a Master of Divinity through Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. JP has been a camp/conference speaker and creative contributor to several churches, camps, schools, and organizations over his years in student ministry. JP has a passion for seeing students "get it." JP has a unique way of teaching the Bible, making it applicable and clear to students. JP's passion is contagious, and his love for student ministry is evident. JP has a driving passion for seeing the truth of God's word "stick" in students' lives. JP is a dynamic, vibrant, and gifted communicator who is passionate about challenging students to live lives as big as the God we serve.

JP is married to his lovely and talented wife, Kelly Phillips, and together they are blessed to have one son, Blake Phillips. Please pray for Kelly; she has to deal with JP and Blake, both of which are just alike! Not many times will you find him sitting still, not communicating to someone about student ministry or ministering to students themselves.