Brother Varnell was the founder of the BMA, first known as the Evangelistic Ministerial Alliance back in 1934. He founded the Evansville Bethel ministry which launched many other churches in the Indiana, Illinois and midwest regions. Oringinally from Arkansas, "Doc" moved to California leaving that ministry in the hands of Rev R. R. Schwambach where it flourishes still today. Doc Varnell produced over 20 tracts on Doctrinal issues and was one who always loved to win a debate. Much of what the BMA has become, we owe to his vision and leadership over the years.