Tom Nelson was born December 29, 1950 in Waco, Texas. One of four boys, Tommy spent his childhood playing football and baseball. In college, he chose North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas) in Denton, where he played quarterback for the Eagles and graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education/Biology. One day a Navigator came to talk to Tom’s roommate, and Tom “heard” the Gospel as he listened over his roommate’s shoulder. That was 1972, and Tom believed and trusted in Christ. He attended Dallas Theological Seminary ’77-82′ while an associate pastor of Denton Bible Church. He has been pastoring at Denton Bible Church thirty-five years and is presently Senior Pastor. Tommy currently serves on the Dallas Theological Seminary Board of Incorporate Members.

He has authored six books: The Story of God (previously published as The Big Picture), The Book of Romance, A Life Well Lived: A Study on the Book of Ecclesiastes. : (previously published as The Problem of Life With God), Better Love Now, The Twelve Essentials of Godly Success, his book of poetry The Musings of an Evangelical Mind and just released Walking on Water When You Feel Like You’re Drowning. Tommy is the teacher for six DVD series, speaker emeritus for the Song of Solomon Bible conferences held around the country each year, and his taped messages travel throughout the world. He has also been a featured speaker for Focus on the Family, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and FamilyLife Today.

Tom married his best friend, Teresa Newman, in August, 1974. Their older son, Benjamin, works for the United States Department of Homeland Security. He and his wife, Amanda, live nearby and have made them the proud grandparents of Thomas Clark (T.C.), Gabrielle (Gaby), Ryan, and Barrett. Their other son, John Clark, played baseball for the University of Kansas Jayhawks and is a former professional baseball player. He is married to Jenni. John Clark and Jenni have given them two more precious grandchildren, Jake and Turner. They love having all of their family close by.