Malcolm L. Finkley accepted God’s call to ministry at the remarkable age of eight, preaching his first sermon with a clarity and conviction far beyond his years. Over the past forty one years, he has faithfully served in diverse pastoral, teaching, and leadership roles across the country, each assignment shaping his passion for preaching, discipleship, and helping people rise into the life God designed for them.

His ministry journey includes serving as Minister of Outreach and Singles at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Arlington, Texas; Senior Pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Coatesville, Pennsylvania; and Director of Comfort & Care and Singles Ministry at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas under the leadership of Dr. Tony Evans. Malcolm has also served as Associate Pastor and Minister of Outreach, Discipleship, and Youth at First Baptist Church of Progress Village in Tampa, Florida, where he launched a University of South Florida outreach ministry, developed a Faith Promise Missions Conference, implemented a Youth Evangelism initiative, and served as a trusted community liaison.

Malcolm’s ministry extends beyond the local church. He has served nationally through the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., and the National Baptist Youth Convention of America Leadership Council. Globally, he has trained pastors in Nigeria, West Africa, and partnered with missionaries in Grenada, West Indies, and the Czech Republic, strengthening leaders and equipping churches around the world. He holds degrees in Religious Education, Education, and Biblical Studies, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Leadership at UNT Dallas. Malcolm is also the founder of The Rise Initiative, a teaching and equipping ministry dedicated to helping churches and individuals discover and live out their God given purpose.

In recent years, Malcolm walked through a deeply personal season of adversity, heart surgery, a stroke, betrayal, and loss. Through it all, God renewed his strength, refined his calling, and deepened his compassion for people who are hurting. That journey became the foundation of his debut book, Sidelined: From Setback to Comeback.