Willy Rice // SBC Pastors Conference 2026

In this powerful message from the 2026 SBC Pastors Conference, “The Bleating of the Sheep and the Tearing of the Robe,” Pastor Willy Rice examines the tragic downfall of King Saul through 1 Samuel 15:22–27 and issues a compelling call for doctrinal faithfulness. Saul’s failure was not outright apostasy, but a gradual compromise driven by pragmatism, public pressure, and a desire for success over obedience. Through the vivid imagery of the bleating sheep and Samuel’s torn robe, listeners are challenged to consider whether religious activity, ministry accomplishments, and cultural approval have replaced wholehearted submission to God’s Word. Drawing lessons from Saul, the life of Charles Spurgeon during the Downgrade Controversy, and the current challenges facing the church, this message urges believers to value obedience over observance, faithfulness over fervency, and God’s kingdom over personal ambition. Ultimately, it is a call for humility, courage, and steadfast commitment to biblical truth so that future generations may be able to say of us: “We kept the faith.” William Rice was voted in as SBC President 2026.