H.B. Charles Jr. is a highly respected American pastor, author, speaker, and Bible expositor known for his deep commitment to Scripture and his practical preaching style. He serves as one of the leading voices in evangelical preaching today, especially within the African American church community. With decades of pastoral experience, Charles has become a trusted teacher whose sermons, books, and leadership have influenced pastors, churches, and believers around the world. His ministry is characterized by faithful biblical teaching, pastoral wisdom, and a strong emphasis on discipleship and spiritual growth.
Quick Facts About H.B. Charles Jr.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Herbert Bronson Charles Jr. |
| Date of Birth | February 11, 1973 |
| Age | 52 years old (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Speaker |
| Known For | Expository preaching, pastoral leadership, authoring Christian books |
| Education | Trained in ministry from an early age under his father |
| Spouse | Crystal Charles |
| Children | Three children |
| Church | Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church, Jacksonville, Florida |
| Notable Books | “It Happens After Prayer”, “On Pastoring”, “On Preaching” |
Early Life and Background
H.B. Charles Jr. was born on February 11, 1973, in Los Angeles, California. He was raised in a Christian home and grew up attending church where his father, H.B. Charles Sr., served as pastor. This early exposure to ministry shaped his understanding of Scripture, worship, and pastoral leadership.
From a young age, Charles displayed a remarkable passion for preaching. He delivered his first sermon at the age of 11, a moment many Christians today still reference when describing his ministry journey. His father mentored him closely, preparing him to understand both the spiritual and practical aspects of pastoral leadership.
When his father passed away suddenly, H.B. Charles Jr. was entrusted with the responsibility of stepping into pastoral leadership at just 17 years old. His appointment as pastor at such a young age surprised many, but his maturity, discipline, and strong commitment to biblical teaching quickly helped him earn respect among church members and leaders.
Family and Personal Life
H.B. Charles Jr. is married to his wife, Crystal Charles, and together they have three children. He often speaks about the importance of family, marriage, and spiritual leadership within the home. His ministry approach reflects his value for balancing pastoral responsibilities with family life, and he frequently shares practical insights from his personal experiences as a husband and father.
Despite his public influence, Charles leads a modest, private family life, focusing on nurturing a Christ-centered home.
Ministry Career
Becoming a Young Pastor
After the passing of his father, H.B. Charles Jr. became the pastor of the church his father led. Pastoring at 17 came with challenges, but Charles leaned on prayer, biblical study, and mentorship from older pastors to grow in ministry. His early years in leadership helped shape his strong expository teaching style and his emphasis on pastoral integrity.
He served in California for nearly two decades before receiving a call to serve at Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church.
Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church
In 2008, Charles became the senior pastor of Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida. Under his leadership, Shiloh has grown spiritually and numerically, becoming a multi-generational and multi-campus ministry known for Bible-centered teaching, community outreach, and strong worship services.
His sermons often focus on:
- Verse-by-verse exposition
- Practical Christian living
- Prayer and spiritual discipline
- Healthy church leadership
- The life and teachings of Jesus Christ
His passion for preaching has positioned Shiloh as a trusted teaching ministry for believers across the nation.
Books and Writing Ministry
H.B. Charles Jr. is also an accomplished author known for writing practical and biblically rich books. His books are frequently used by pastors, ministry students, and Christians seeking spiritual growth. Some of his well-known works include:
- It Happens After Prayer
A book that explores the importance of prayer, spiritual endurance, and trusting God in every season. - On Preaching
A practical guide for pastors on sermon preparation, delivery, and the calling of a preacher. - On Pastoring
A helpful resource for pastors and ministry leaders, offering wisdom on pastoral leadership, church care, and ministry responsibilities. - The Difference Jesus Makes
A devotional book highlighting the transformative power of Jesus in everyday life.
His writing style is clear, biblical, and practical, making his books highly accessible to both pastors and everyday believers.
Speaking and Conference Ministry
Aside from pastoring and writing, H.B. Charles Jr. is a highly sought-after conference speaker. He regularly teaches at national Christian events, pastoral conferences, leadership gatherings, and Bible expositor seminars. He has also been a speaker for organizations such as The Gospel Coalition, Lifeway, and various pastoral fellowships.
He uses these platforms to teach on preaching, pastoral ministry, prayer, church leadership, and spiritual maturity.
Leadership Roles and Influence
H.B. Charles Jr. served as the first African American president of the Southern Baptist Convention Pastors’ Conference, a historic milestone that highlighted his national influence. His leadership in this role helped open doors for diversity, unity, and collaboration within the SBC pastoral community.
His blog, podcast, Bible teachings, and resources continue to equip thousands of pastors and church leaders around the world.
Ministry Philosophy
Charles’ ministry philosophy is centered on:
- Expository Preaching
Teaching Scripture verse by verse and allowing the Bible to shape the message. - Prayer and Dependence on God
Believing strongly that true ministry effectiveness comes from prayer. - Pastoral Integrity
Leading with humility, honesty, and spiritual discipline. - Discipleship and Church Health
Growing churches not just in numbers but in spiritual depth. - Christ-Centered Living
Helping believers follow Jesus in every area of their lives.
Net Worth
H.B. Charles Jr.’s net worth is estimated at around $1 million, earned through pastoral work, book publishing, conferences, and speaking engagements. His financial success reflects decades of faithful ministry, leadership, and influence rather than personal luxury or excess.
Achievements and Impact
H.B. Charles Jr. has achieved significant recognition in Christian leadership through:
- Becoming pastor at 17 years old
- Leading the historic Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church
- Serving as the first African American president of the SBC Pastors’ Conference
- Authoring widely used books on preaching and pastoral ministry
- Equipping pastors globally through conferences and leadership training
- Influencing believers through his sermons, podcast, and media ministry
His work continues to inspire pastors, ministry leaders, and Christians worldwide who seek deeper biblical understanding and spiritual growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, I will provide you with some FAQs and answers about H.B Charles Jr. Keep on reading, friend!
1. Who is H.B. Charles Jr.?
He is an American pastor, author, and Bible expositor known for expository preaching and pastoral leadership.
2. How old is H.B. Charles Jr.?
He is 52 years old as of 2025.
3. What church does he pastor?
He is the senior pastor of Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida.
4. Is H.B. Charles Jr. married?
Yes. He is married to his wife, Crystal, and they have three children.
5. What is H.B. Charles Jr.’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is around $1 million.
6. What books has he written?
His books include It Happens After Prayer, On Preaching, and On Pastoring.
7. What is H.B. Charles Jr. known for?
He is known for expository preaching, pastoral mentorship, and leadership in the evangelical church community.
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