John D. Nichols collection

John D. Nichols was born in 1929. Nichols’s life of ministry spanned nearly six decades. He received licensure in the Church of God in 1951 and was ordained in 1960. Nichols went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts from Northwest Bible College after study at Southern California College. He did graduate work at the Church of God School of Theology (now Pentecostal Theological Seminary) and was awarded a Doctor of Letters by Lee College.

Nichols was first known for his fiery brand of Pentecostal preaching. More than 6,800 people testified to receiving the baptism in the Holy Spirit through his ministry. Nichols gave distinguished service to the Church of God as a pastor, church leader, and spokesman for Pentecost. He pastored Visalia, CA (1952–1953), San Bernardino, CA (1953–1954), Baldwin Park, CA (1954–1959), and South Park, AL (1959–1960), and was state overseer of Oregon (1960–1964), North and South Dakota (1964–1968), Illinois (1968–1970), and Tennessee (1982–1986). Nichols evangelized for two years. He was a frequent speaker at camp meetings, General Assemblies, conferences, and retreats. He was also involved in interdenominational associations, often in leadership positions.

Elected Church of God general leadership positions included: Second Assistant General Overseer (1990–1994). Third Assistant General Overseer (1989–1990), General Secretary-Treasurer (1986–1989), Director of Evangelism and Home Missions (1974–1978), Assistant Director of Evangelism and Home Missions (1970–1974). In addition to his years as an Executive Committee member, he also served on the Executive Council (1972–1976, 1978–1982, and 1984–1988).

Nichols served as chairman of the boards at West Coast Bible College (1960–1962, 1984–1986) and Northwest Bible College (1964–1968). Other board service included Evangelism and Home Missions Board (1964–1968) and as chairman of the World Missions Board (1982–1986).

During his twelve-year tenure as director of Church of God Benevolence Ministries (1994-2006), the Division of Care was begun. Under his leadership, a $5 million General Assembly offering was received, enabling the establishment and continuance of thirty-five children's homes around the world. Also during that time, Operation Compassion was organized, which has become one of the world’s most effective relief agencies.

Reverend Nichols was married to Norene Nichols and to this union were born two children: Jeanne and Judi.

References:

Nichols, John D. Compelling Pentecostal Sermons. Cleveland, Tenn.: Pathway, 2013.

Information File: Nichols, John D., Dixon Pentecostal Research Center, Cleveland, Tennessee.