Michael Watkins came to know the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior in Soddy Daisy, Tennessee, in 1978. He started reguarly attending Dallas Baptist Church under Pastor Charles Hicks, a graduate of Tennessee Temple University. Although a new Christian, he got involved in the church soul-winning program and helped Pastor Hicks with various tasks around the church.

Pastor Watkins later moved to Florida and served as a Youth Director for three years. Pastor Watkins heard the call to preach, and moved to Hammond, Indiana, to attend Hyles-Anderson College. While at Hyles-Anderson, Pastor Watkins served as a member of the staff and was ordained by Dr. Jack Hyles. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Theology from Hyles-Anderson College and a Doctor of Divinity from Texas Baptist College.

Since 1997, Dr. Watkins has ministered to the people of Lighthouse Baptist Church. He and his family have given their time, love, and lives for the work of the ministry and the vision of Lighthouse Baptist Church.