Sam grew up in a large family in East Texas. In high school, he began washing dishes at Pine Cove Christian Camps, where, over 17 years, God shaped his passion for making disciples who live and love like Jesus. Later, God called Sam to serve as Teaching Pastor at Park Cities Baptist Church, where he spent five years growing as a preacher. In 2017, Sam and his family were called to First McKinney, where he now serves as Lead Pastor.

Sam is passionate about teaching the Bible in a clear and authentic way, helping people understand what it says and how it applies to their lives. He believes the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the only life-transforming message worth giving your life to. Sam invests his time in small, reproducing discipleship groups. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Baylor University, a Master of Divinity in Hermeneutics from Southwestern Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry in Exegetical Preaching from Dallas Theological Seminary.

Sam met his wife, Rebecca, on a ski trip with Pine Cove alumni. Rebecca is a graduate of Texas A&M University and serves as a Physician Assistant at Hope Women’s Center. Together, Sam and Rebecca have two daughters, Anna and Ellie. As a family, they enjoy spending time outdoors, reading, playing sports, and board games.

Stay connected with Pastor Sam and our other teachers.  Here is sample of our most recent Sermon.  Below you will find other ways you can watch sermons and podcasts from Pastor Sam.