James Merritt, (born December 22, 1952), is a U.S. religious leader and was president of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2000 to 2002.
He was born and raised in Oakwood, Georgia and surrendered his life to Christ as a 9-year-old boy.
As a popular Bible teacher and respected voice of the Christian faith, James has been interviewed by media outlets including 60 Minutes, The New York Times, ABC World News Tonight, Time Magazine, and Hannity and Colmes.
Each week, Merritt's messages are broadcast in all 50 states and 122 countries around the world through Touching Lives, a television and media ministry.
His heart for pastors has also resulted in PastorsEdge.com, a ministry resource and PastorsEdge Mentoring Conferences.