Dr. Lawless serves as Professor of Evangelism and Missions, Dean of Doctoral Studies, and Vice-President for Spiritual Formation at Southeastern Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Additionally, he serves as Team Leader for Theological Education Strategists for the International Mission Board.

He previously served as Vice President of the IMB, dean of the Billy Graham School at Southern Seminary in KY, and a local church pastor in Ohio.

He is the author of several works, including Membership Matters, Discipled Warriors, Putting on the Armor, Serving in Your Church Prayer Ministry, Mentor, and Nobodies for Jesus.

He and his wife, Pam, live in Wake Forest, North Carolina.