How many of you were alive when George Washington was president? The answer is obvious. Yet despite the reality that no one alive today physically saw President Washington, his presidency is a universal historical fact. How do we know of his presidency? There were eyewitnesses, writings, and a legacy of presidential conduct. Each of these elements (along with a little intellectual thinking) apply to the resurrection of Christ. So why is it that when it comes to Jesus' resurrection are some so quick to try and explain it away as myth or pure non-sense. Well Jesus is our answer for that question because He said, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No man comes to the Father except through ME." Indeed the reason why the resurrection is so important is because the fate of every soul in our history depends upon it. If it could be proven that Jesus indeed rose from the grave, would you believe in Him?
There are 5 possible theories that could account for the data of the resurrection. Christianity (Jesus died and rose from the grave), hallucination (Jesus died but the disciples were hallucinating), myth (Jesus died but the disciples created a legend), conspiracy (Jesus died but the disciples were deceivers), and finally swoon (Jesus didn't die). One of these 5 explains the resurrection story.
Secular history records the existence of Christ and in fact it also records the fact that Jesus died by crucifixion. To account for the data all you need to assume is that Christianity exists and that the NT exists. Both of which are undeniable. However you don't have to assume that Scripture is completely true. Just take the details of the story and apply them to the theories. In light of this...
Let's start with the swoon theory. Is it possible that Jesus did not die on the cross; that He merely fainted? This is unlikely because Roman procedures were very careful to carry out the death sentence. Not to mention the fact that a botched execution would have resulted in the punishment of the soldier responsible. Next...the disciples were convinced of His resurrection because you can examine how they were dramatically changed after this event. It would be psychologically impossible to assume that such a change would take place if Jesus had merely fainted.
Conspiracy Theory: Is it possible that the disciples concocted the entire story? To find the answer to this question, one needs to look at the human heart. The heart is deceitful and subject to bribes, pressure, temptation and the like. We know that the disciples faced immense pressure and persecution in light of their faith. They were imprisoned, tortured, and killed. Under such circumstances all it would take is only one of the remaining eleven to renounce the story. But we see the opposite take place in history. None of them renounced the story and most of them endured horrible deaths because of their faith. This theory also does not make sense because if Jesus was still in the grave--then why did the Jewish authorities not produce the body for everyone to see?
Hallucination Theory: Hallucinations tend to be isolated to one individual. Jesus' resurrection poses a problem to this theory because there were too many witnesses. Remember that when the NT was written many eye witnesses to the events surrounding Jesus' life were still alive. If something was written that was not true there would have been eye witnesses to counter the false writings. If Jesus' body was still in the tomb, then the disciples could not have believed in the hallucination. If they hallucinated then someone needs to answer the question concerning the whereabouts of the corpse. Given their devotion to Christ they would have checked for the body.
Myth Theory: The writing styles of the Gospels vary greatly from mythical literature. Within the Gospels there are no exaggerated, overblown, out of place events that typically accompany a myth. The details of the resurrection story in the different Gospel accounts--all fit together, nothing is contradictory. Another aspect of eyewitness testimony is worthy of mentioning here. The story is full of eyewitness details that could only have been provided if the person had seen it (i.e. the angel sitting on top of the stone). Perhaps the most convincing detail about the resurrection that screams reality is that the women were the first to see the event. In 1st century Judaism, women had low social status and virtually no legal right to testify in court. If the empty tomb were invented legend, then those who created the story would not have had the women to be the first to see it. But if they tell the story according to how it happened, then they must report it as such.
In closing, the bottom line is that there is an empty tomb and no one has ever found Jesus' body. You can find the bones of Mohammad, Buddha, and Abraham--but not Jesus. He is different, He is above all, He is the Truth.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Thursday, July 22, 2010
What is a launch team and what do they do?
Being part of a church plant launch team is a very exciting adventure (and it is an adventure). Essentially a launch team is a core group of believers who are committed to the church plant when the church launches. The ideal and recommended situation is to have a group of mature Christians within the group, although new believers and even non-Christians can be part of the launch team. The goal in forming a launch team is to have the leadership in place that is needed for a healthy church when the church plant begins to grow.
It is essential to remember that the purpose in planting a church is to reach the lost. One driving factor behind Foothills Baptist Church is that on any given Sunday, over 50% of Maryville does not attend church. Maryville is in the buckle of the Bible belt and yet there is still a need to reach the lost in a different way. We are not interested in "swapping sheep." But reality is that a launch team is made up of individuals who are connected to a church. What we are interested in is seeing families come to know Christ. In order to see that happen we must be obedient and there must be a launch team of mature believers in place to help mentor and disciple the new believers.
The purpose of our launch team fellowship meetings are just that...to fellowship. They are open to anyone--those who are interested in being part of the launch team and those who are not but are wanting to help in some way. We get together and we pray, we eat,we talk, and we study the Word. All we are asking is for people to pray about whether God is leading them to be part of this dynamic act of faith and obedience. We are asking people to commit to praying for God's leading on their life and to be open if the Lord leads them to an uncomfortable situation.
Many questions and concerns might arise in one's mind when asked to pray about joining a launch team. I know because I've been there. I asked the same questions when I began to feel God leading me in this direction. Let's not pretend...being part of an established church ministry is more comfortable for ourselves and our families. It's easier to fit in and it's more convenient.
So why plant another church or why should we consider uprooting and leave our existing ministry? Fair questions that need to be addressed. The 1st reason is that planting churches is inherently implied in the Great Commission given by Christ. Every church at some point in time was a church plant.
The second reason is found in Romans 10:14: "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" Be careful this verse applies to more people than those struggling with the call to ministry. It applies to all believers. To preach simply means to proclaim. Preach or proclaim what? Proclaim the good news about the One who can take away their sins.
We can be naive about things or face reality and the truth. The truth is that hear in the buckle of the Bible belt there are people who have not heard the message of the saving Gospel of Christ. Very close to our church door are individuals who have never heard the name of Jesus. What a sad reality! But true. How does this tie together with being part of a launch team? Well a church plant simply focuses on those who have never had the Gospel shared with them. By being part of a launch team of a church plant you are that "someone preaching to them."
The 3rd reason for joining a launch team is that it will grow your faith. You will see God provide and do things that will blow your mind away. It's already happened to those of us who have been on staff at Foothills. When God's provision takes place it provides encouragement and a realization that God is indeed working. Anyone who commits to a launch team is taking a step of faith. This act of faith is based out of obedience to God's Word and a belief in the vision of the church.
It also grows our faith by getting us out of our comfort zone. The idea that Christianity is supposed to be comfortable is uniquely American. I would encourage you to google "Voice of the Martyrs" and look at their website. Christians in America have it made when compared to the rest of the world. We do not face persecution on such a grand scale as our fellow brothers and sisters around the world. My belief is that because we do not face this persecution we have become very comfortable in our faith. Being on a launch team will get you out of that comfort zone. Now..that doesn't mean that persecution will come rather it implies that it might lead you to do things for the Lord that you are not used to doing (which is not a bad thing).
Forming a launch team is vital to any church plant. For us it is vital as well. We have tried to talk with as many of our friends and relatives as possible. We know that many of you will not be led to do this and that some of you will. We also realize that there are those who are being led but are fighting with God because they are comfortable. God does not call us to be comfortable, He calls us to be obedient. All we are asking is that you come to our fellowships, pray about being on the launch team, be open to His leading, and be obedient.
Let us not forget that all glory be to the Father of Him who is the ransom for our souls!!
Jeremy
It is essential to remember that the purpose in planting a church is to reach the lost. One driving factor behind Foothills Baptist Church is that on any given Sunday, over 50% of Maryville does not attend church. Maryville is in the buckle of the Bible belt and yet there is still a need to reach the lost in a different way. We are not interested in "swapping sheep." But reality is that a launch team is made up of individuals who are connected to a church. What we are interested in is seeing families come to know Christ. In order to see that happen we must be obedient and there must be a launch team of mature believers in place to help mentor and disciple the new believers.
The purpose of our launch team fellowship meetings are just that...to fellowship. They are open to anyone--those who are interested in being part of the launch team and those who are not but are wanting to help in some way. We get together and we pray, we eat,we talk, and we study the Word. All we are asking is for people to pray about whether God is leading them to be part of this dynamic act of faith and obedience. We are asking people to commit to praying for God's leading on their life and to be open if the Lord leads them to an uncomfortable situation.
Many questions and concerns might arise in one's mind when asked to pray about joining a launch team. I know because I've been there. I asked the same questions when I began to feel God leading me in this direction. Let's not pretend...being part of an established church ministry is more comfortable for ourselves and our families. It's easier to fit in and it's more convenient.
So why plant another church or why should we consider uprooting and leave our existing ministry? Fair questions that need to be addressed. The 1st reason is that planting churches is inherently implied in the Great Commission given by Christ. Every church at some point in time was a church plant.
The second reason is found in Romans 10:14: "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" Be careful this verse applies to more people than those struggling with the call to ministry. It applies to all believers. To preach simply means to proclaim. Preach or proclaim what? Proclaim the good news about the One who can take away their sins.
We can be naive about things or face reality and the truth. The truth is that hear in the buckle of the Bible belt there are people who have not heard the message of the saving Gospel of Christ. Very close to our church door are individuals who have never heard the name of Jesus. What a sad reality! But true. How does this tie together with being part of a launch team? Well a church plant simply focuses on those who have never had the Gospel shared with them. By being part of a launch team of a church plant you are that "someone preaching to them."
The 3rd reason for joining a launch team is that it will grow your faith. You will see God provide and do things that will blow your mind away. It's already happened to those of us who have been on staff at Foothills. When God's provision takes place it provides encouragement and a realization that God is indeed working. Anyone who commits to a launch team is taking a step of faith. This act of faith is based out of obedience to God's Word and a belief in the vision of the church.
It also grows our faith by getting us out of our comfort zone. The idea that Christianity is supposed to be comfortable is uniquely American. I would encourage you to google "Voice of the Martyrs" and look at their website. Christians in America have it made when compared to the rest of the world. We do not face persecution on such a grand scale as our fellow brothers and sisters around the world. My belief is that because we do not face this persecution we have become very comfortable in our faith. Being on a launch team will get you out of that comfort zone. Now..that doesn't mean that persecution will come rather it implies that it might lead you to do things for the Lord that you are not used to doing (which is not a bad thing).
Forming a launch team is vital to any church plant. For us it is vital as well. We have tried to talk with as many of our friends and relatives as possible. We know that many of you will not be led to do this and that some of you will. We also realize that there are those who are being led but are fighting with God because they are comfortable. God does not call us to be comfortable, He calls us to be obedient. All we are asking is that you come to our fellowships, pray about being on the launch team, be open to His leading, and be obedient.
Let us not forget that all glory be to the Father of Him who is the ransom for our souls!!
Jeremy
Friday, June 25, 2010
Why We Are Planting A Church
Blogging is fun and it interests me. However…I really do not have time to do it consistently. This is a busy time for my family. Since my last post our second son, Noah, was born. He is doing well and so is Rachel. God has truly blessed us. As I think back on my life the blessings of God flow from every memory. I was fortunate to be born to a great family, to great parents who set the spiritual example for me and taught me how to be a man. I have been fortunate to have a great older (and I mean older) brother. It’s always nice to be able seek advice from someone you can trust and depend on.
Then there’s Rachel. What can I say to properly put my feelings for her in words? Simple I love you will do, I hope. She’s a great wife and a wonderful mother. She supports me in everything, from church plants to my other ministry positions and all the other stuff I am currently involved in. Sorry to ramble…but I’ve got to make God’s blessings known!
Why are we planting a church? I think I’ve been asked that question a thousand times. I know the typical logic that accompanies this question…there are sooo many churches in Maryville, why another one? We have a firm belief that there is still a lot that can be done in the community to minister to families and bring glory to Christ in the process. This doesn’t mean that we are anti establishment or have the opinion that all the existing churches are failing, nor does it mean that we are against working with other churches. It simply means that in 2010 there is still more work to do and the basis for this is the fact that nearly half of Maryville (in the buckle of the Bible belt) on any given Sunday is unchurched.
Closely related is another reason. Church plants should not “swap sheep.” We are not in this to “steal” someone else’s members. We are planting a church to see the lost be radically transformed by the power of God through His Son Jesus Christ. This is our passion and vision and we are praying that God will send us a group of mature believers who have the same passion. Our strategy to accomplish our task is to “be the church.” In other words, instead of developing programs with the hope of attracting people to our building, we are going to transplant the church out in the community with the hope and intent that those individuals encounter the Gospel through our service.
This strategy of being the church in the community we believe is more biblical than just sitting around waiting on the lost to flock to us. If you examine Jesus’ public ministry, more often than not He was teaching and ministering outside the walls of the temple. Jesus was in the community and we need to do the same. Our church is going to actively serve the community and our hope is that we will take the Gospel to families and see Fathers become the spiritual head of his family while leading his home to grow in faith.
There are some things that we are lifting up in prayer. We are seeking God’s leading in a worship pastor and a student/university pastor. Maryville College is just down the road and we intend to minister to the students on campus. We envision a Wednesday night college service where we cater to the students and bring the Gospel to them in full force through a time of fellowship, worship, and a non-watered down Jesus saves and defeats sin message. We would love for God to send us someone who has a passion for collegiate ministry.
As we continue to go through this faith growing process and following the Lord’s lead we are confident that God is going to give us the resources we need to do the ministry and we believe that He will lead individuals who have a heart for the Gospel and want to mentor a new believer to us. We are hoping that we can continue to develop relationships with other local churches and pastors and work alongside with them in accomplishing the overall mission of the church (Great Commission). We continue to pray for a church that can help us financially or partner with us in some capacity. Given the economic times we understand the difficulty in committing to do anything financially. While our focus is not on money we do understand that it is a need and our prayer is that God will provide for us enough to do what it takes to bring Him glory.
It’s an exciting yet nervous adventure of ups and downs. There are days when we know God is working and days when discouragement attack us. There are days when I honestly am overwhelmed with the task ahead. Can I be honest with you? I need your prayers. Pray for me to have wisdom, strength, to not compromise the Gospel in an attempt to gain an audience, to not neglect my family. All along I’ve said that Foothills Baptist Church will come to be not because its pastor has brilliant ideas or is a great schemer. Rather she will be birthed because of God’s grace, His power, His work, His ministry, His leading, and His providence. And this is what we want everyone to understand; that God has ordained and established this church. He is going to do a great work through the congregation and we are excited to be part of that work. He might be leading some of you to join us on this God ordained adventure.
Because He lives,
Jeremy
Then there’s Rachel. What can I say to properly put my feelings for her in words? Simple I love you will do, I hope. She’s a great wife and a wonderful mother. She supports me in everything, from church plants to my other ministry positions and all the other stuff I am currently involved in. Sorry to ramble…but I’ve got to make God’s blessings known!
Why are we planting a church? I think I’ve been asked that question a thousand times. I know the typical logic that accompanies this question…there are sooo many churches in Maryville, why another one? We have a firm belief that there is still a lot that can be done in the community to minister to families and bring glory to Christ in the process. This doesn’t mean that we are anti establishment or have the opinion that all the existing churches are failing, nor does it mean that we are against working with other churches. It simply means that in 2010 there is still more work to do and the basis for this is the fact that nearly half of Maryville (in the buckle of the Bible belt) on any given Sunday is unchurched.
Closely related is another reason. Church plants should not “swap sheep.” We are not in this to “steal” someone else’s members. We are planting a church to see the lost be radically transformed by the power of God through His Son Jesus Christ. This is our passion and vision and we are praying that God will send us a group of mature believers who have the same passion. Our strategy to accomplish our task is to “be the church.” In other words, instead of developing programs with the hope of attracting people to our building, we are going to transplant the church out in the community with the hope and intent that those individuals encounter the Gospel through our service.
This strategy of being the church in the community we believe is more biblical than just sitting around waiting on the lost to flock to us. If you examine Jesus’ public ministry, more often than not He was teaching and ministering outside the walls of the temple. Jesus was in the community and we need to do the same. Our church is going to actively serve the community and our hope is that we will take the Gospel to families and see Fathers become the spiritual head of his family while leading his home to grow in faith.
There are some things that we are lifting up in prayer. We are seeking God’s leading in a worship pastor and a student/university pastor. Maryville College is just down the road and we intend to minister to the students on campus. We envision a Wednesday night college service where we cater to the students and bring the Gospel to them in full force through a time of fellowship, worship, and a non-watered down Jesus saves and defeats sin message. We would love for God to send us someone who has a passion for collegiate ministry.
As we continue to go through this faith growing process and following the Lord’s lead we are confident that God is going to give us the resources we need to do the ministry and we believe that He will lead individuals who have a heart for the Gospel and want to mentor a new believer to us. We are hoping that we can continue to develop relationships with other local churches and pastors and work alongside with them in accomplishing the overall mission of the church (Great Commission). We continue to pray for a church that can help us financially or partner with us in some capacity. Given the economic times we understand the difficulty in committing to do anything financially. While our focus is not on money we do understand that it is a need and our prayer is that God will provide for us enough to do what it takes to bring Him glory.
It’s an exciting yet nervous adventure of ups and downs. There are days when we know God is working and days when discouragement attack us. There are days when I honestly am overwhelmed with the task ahead. Can I be honest with you? I need your prayers. Pray for me to have wisdom, strength, to not compromise the Gospel in an attempt to gain an audience, to not neglect my family. All along I’ve said that Foothills Baptist Church will come to be not because its pastor has brilliant ideas or is a great schemer. Rather she will be birthed because of God’s grace, His power, His work, His ministry, His leading, and His providence. And this is what we want everyone to understand; that God has ordained and established this church. He is going to do a great work through the congregation and we are excited to be part of that work. He might be leading some of you to join us on this God ordained adventure.
Because He lives,
Jeremy
Monday, May 10, 2010
The Life of a Church Planter (part 1)
Foothills Baptist Church is in full swing. Even though our launch date has not arrived our schedule is beginning to flourish and ministry is already taking place. Currently in my life, schedule balancing has become a challenge. My wife could go into labor any day, Isaac is growing up quickly, I work full time, and I am planting a church as the founding pastor. The challenge is to make sure my priorities are in the correct order.
Many of us struggle with busy schedules. We go and go and go until the day is over and we have had no family time or time alone with God. The problem is when this becomes the consistent pattern to our lives and begins to define who we are. I believe that Satan exists and that he seeks to destroy families. There are so many tactics and strategies implemented by the evil one to derail God’s ideal for the family. One tactic I believe is busy schedules. Rachel and I recently had a discussion about this very topic. The realization that we discovered was that often we are so busy during the day and that when the time comes to actually sit down we too often turn on the television. Family time should not revolve around the TV.
Now we are guarding our time together as a family. This means making certain that my family stays ahead of my career. This is a challenge in and of itself because we are so career driven in America. We want to advance our careers, be entertained, and have all the stuff that comes along with that. The pursuit of God (holiness) has been replaced with the pursuit of things. I believe all that begins with the breakdown of the family structure.
As I have been going down the path of being a church planter (which I never thought I would ever do), I have increasingly become aware of a few things concerning today’s world. It can never be assumed that the person you are talking to knows of God’s love. It’s more likely that they do not. Gone are the days when people are secretive about sin. Have you been to a restaurant lately? Have you noticed the unabashed drinking and carousing around children? I went to a new restaurant in town the other day and was confronted with this reality up close.
We do not live in a world that has a biblical worldview. Gone are the days when Creationism is accepted as truth. I’m sure somewhere there has been a study or poll that shows that a good percentage of church goers believe in evolution and try to reconcile the teachings of the Bible with the teachings of Darwin. To me these factors are unacceptable.
How does the church respond to this culture? Unfortunately many churches close themselves to the outside world while there are those who are suffering and need the healing power of Jesus in their lives. My concern is for the lost. My concern is for those who are on a never ending and relentless pursuit of happiness by trying to fulfill their desires through everything the world has to offer. Church we have the answer and solution in life and His name is Jesus.
My passion is to serve God by serving others. When we serve others we make an impression in their mind. I have come to realize and understand that most people just don’t want you to tell the Gospel; they want to see you live it. Churches make a greater impact upon society when they model Jesus to the community, not only to themselves. These are things that are dominating our staff discussions at Foothills Baptist Church. We are planning and praying to reach lives for Jesus by reaching outside of the church walls and into the community.
Many of us struggle with busy schedules. We go and go and go until the day is over and we have had no family time or time alone with God. The problem is when this becomes the consistent pattern to our lives and begins to define who we are. I believe that Satan exists and that he seeks to destroy families. There are so many tactics and strategies implemented by the evil one to derail God’s ideal for the family. One tactic I believe is busy schedules. Rachel and I recently had a discussion about this very topic. The realization that we discovered was that often we are so busy during the day and that when the time comes to actually sit down we too often turn on the television. Family time should not revolve around the TV.
Now we are guarding our time together as a family. This means making certain that my family stays ahead of my career. This is a challenge in and of itself because we are so career driven in America. We want to advance our careers, be entertained, and have all the stuff that comes along with that. The pursuit of God (holiness) has been replaced with the pursuit of things. I believe all that begins with the breakdown of the family structure.
As I have been going down the path of being a church planter (which I never thought I would ever do), I have increasingly become aware of a few things concerning today’s world. It can never be assumed that the person you are talking to knows of God’s love. It’s more likely that they do not. Gone are the days when people are secretive about sin. Have you been to a restaurant lately? Have you noticed the unabashed drinking and carousing around children? I went to a new restaurant in town the other day and was confronted with this reality up close.
We do not live in a world that has a biblical worldview. Gone are the days when Creationism is accepted as truth. I’m sure somewhere there has been a study or poll that shows that a good percentage of church goers believe in evolution and try to reconcile the teachings of the Bible with the teachings of Darwin. To me these factors are unacceptable.
How does the church respond to this culture? Unfortunately many churches close themselves to the outside world while there are those who are suffering and need the healing power of Jesus in their lives. My concern is for the lost. My concern is for those who are on a never ending and relentless pursuit of happiness by trying to fulfill their desires through everything the world has to offer. Church we have the answer and solution in life and His name is Jesus.
My passion is to serve God by serving others. When we serve others we make an impression in their mind. I have come to realize and understand that most people just don’t want you to tell the Gospel; they want to see you live it. Churches make a greater impact upon society when they model Jesus to the community, not only to themselves. These are things that are dominating our staff discussions at Foothills Baptist Church. We are planning and praying to reach lives for Jesus by reaching outside of the church walls and into the community.
Monday, April 12, 2010
"State of the Church" update
Every year the President gives a speech before Congress called the "State of the Union" address. So...I thought it might be good and appropriate for me to share with everyone where we are in the church planting process. God has blessed and we give Him the glory!!
At our last staff meeting we discussed our situation by compiling different lists on things we have and things we need. Here is what we came up with as of Saturday (10th).
OVERHEAD/EXPENSES
$72 year--website
$600 month--rent
$30 per each Bible study in library
ITEMS WE HAVE
Building
Projector
Screen
Keyboard
Guitars
Drums
Bongo Drums
Trumpet
Laptop
Fax machine
Copier
ITEMS WE NEED
Sound board
monitors
microphones
lapel mic
Children's lit
PRAYER NEEDS
Music Pastor
Youth Pastor
Core Group Bible Studies beginning on April 19th
Funding/support
Townsend spring festival
Westview Baptist mission trip in July
For us to glorify God and not ourselves
Since my last post, God has blessed us with many things. First He has surrounded me with two guys that I trust very much and whom I would consider balances an area of weakness that I have. Second we have been able to locate a building to use for our services. I cannot emphasize enough how much of a blessing this has been. This is only something God could have done. The building is on 321 headed toward Heritage High School and is called "Music Row." Many in the Maryville area are familiar with the building because it is home to Bluegrass Gospel music concerts on Saturday night. It has enough room for 350 people and has adequate space to do classes and the like. What I like most about the building is that it is located right on 321 and is very accessible and easy to find.
It seems as if the "items we have" column grows weekly and in the process we are staying true to the vision. The church's name is Foothills Baptist Church and evangelism and missions are at the core of our DNA. It's an exciting time as we continue with this journey. In the coming weeks we will be meeting with different churches; in an effort to form partnerships and find support from local congregations. Also beginning April 19th we will begin a series of Bible studies.
The Bible studies will be held at the Blount County Library and the first of which will be me explaining to hopefully you the vision/mission of the church and what is our biblical basis for doing such. While at the Bible study we are going to ask you to do something bold...to pray for us and for you to pray and seek God's will concerning your involvement with us.
Our goal and wish is that the Lord would receive all the glory from Foothills Baptist Church. This is not about me nor is it about anyone else on the staff. Many church plants are becoming trendy and developing rock star pastors. This will not be us. I am not going to spike my hair nor bleach my teeth. We have chosen to include "baptist" in our name simply because it provides doctrinal clarity. We perceive the term "Community" as another trend in church planting. In short our goal is not to be "cool," it is to be biblically solid.
Some have argued that planting a church is now the "cool" thing to do and that no need now exists for a new congregation in Blount County. My response is that church plants are inherent in the Great Commission. Combine that with the statistics available through the North American Mission Board and the evidence is overwhelming. It is estimated that 75% of SBC church goers are lost. Most churches have now plateaued or are dying. For the first time ever there are missionaries who are waiting to be sent by the NAMB but are on hold because of a lack of funds to support them. Statistics show that the SBC is getting older and not reaching the younger generation.
All these things point to one basic fact: we are not sharing the Gospel with those who need it.
This is my passion...to see souls saved and I believe that King Jesus is going to accomplish this through Foothills Baptist Church. We simply do not want to exist and be another church; we want to exist to make a difference for the Kingdom.
Jeremy
At our last staff meeting we discussed our situation by compiling different lists on things we have and things we need. Here is what we came up with as of Saturday (10th).
OVERHEAD/EXPENSES
$72 year--website
$600 month--rent
$30 per each Bible study in library
ITEMS WE HAVE
Building
Projector
Screen
Keyboard
Guitars
Drums
Bongo Drums
Trumpet
Laptop
Fax machine
Copier
ITEMS WE NEED
Sound board
monitors
microphones
lapel mic
Children's lit
PRAYER NEEDS
Music Pastor
Youth Pastor
Core Group Bible Studies beginning on April 19th
Funding/support
Townsend spring festival
Westview Baptist mission trip in July
For us to glorify God and not ourselves
Since my last post, God has blessed us with many things. First He has surrounded me with two guys that I trust very much and whom I would consider balances an area of weakness that I have. Second we have been able to locate a building to use for our services. I cannot emphasize enough how much of a blessing this has been. This is only something God could have done. The building is on 321 headed toward Heritage High School and is called "Music Row." Many in the Maryville area are familiar with the building because it is home to Bluegrass Gospel music concerts on Saturday night. It has enough room for 350 people and has adequate space to do classes and the like. What I like most about the building is that it is located right on 321 and is very accessible and easy to find.
It seems as if the "items we have" column grows weekly and in the process we are staying true to the vision. The church's name is Foothills Baptist Church and evangelism and missions are at the core of our DNA. It's an exciting time as we continue with this journey. In the coming weeks we will be meeting with different churches; in an effort to form partnerships and find support from local congregations. Also beginning April 19th we will begin a series of Bible studies.
The Bible studies will be held at the Blount County Library and the first of which will be me explaining to hopefully you the vision/mission of the church and what is our biblical basis for doing such. While at the Bible study we are going to ask you to do something bold...to pray for us and for you to pray and seek God's will concerning your involvement with us.
Our goal and wish is that the Lord would receive all the glory from Foothills Baptist Church. This is not about me nor is it about anyone else on the staff. Many church plants are becoming trendy and developing rock star pastors. This will not be us. I am not going to spike my hair nor bleach my teeth. We have chosen to include "baptist" in our name simply because it provides doctrinal clarity. We perceive the term "Community" as another trend in church planting. In short our goal is not to be "cool," it is to be biblically solid.
Some have argued that planting a church is now the "cool" thing to do and that no need now exists for a new congregation in Blount County. My response is that church plants are inherent in the Great Commission. Combine that with the statistics available through the North American Mission Board and the evidence is overwhelming. It is estimated that 75% of SBC church goers are lost. Most churches have now plateaued or are dying. For the first time ever there are missionaries who are waiting to be sent by the NAMB but are on hold because of a lack of funds to support them. Statistics show that the SBC is getting older and not reaching the younger generation.
All these things point to one basic fact: we are not sharing the Gospel with those who need it.
This is my passion...to see souls saved and I believe that King Jesus is going to accomplish this through Foothills Baptist Church. We simply do not want to exist and be another church; we want to exist to make a difference for the Kingdom.
Jeremy
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Mission Part 2: Biblical Teaching
To any church biblical teaching is vital in order for it to be healthy. Upholding God’s Word is the most important thing a church should do. God’s Word is still relevant for the 21st Century. Unfortunately many churches and mainline denominations have took the “low road” when it comes to the truthfulness of Scripture. Indeed this trend has filtered down to certain world leaders and to the culture in which we live. We are living in a world where it is the politically correct thing to do and the socially acceptable “badge of honor” to tout evolution as the genesis of life and Christianity as a way to salvation or heaven.
No doubt about it the line has been drawn in the sand for the battle of the souls of men. Biblical teaching will be the bedrock of this church plant. We believe biblical teaching to be the truth and understanding that the Bible is the inerrant and infallible Word of God; meaning that it is without error and does not contradict itself. It contains the answers for all of our problems today. So….when we read that God created the earth in six days and rested on the 7th in Genesis chapter 1 that is exactly what we believe to have happened. In John 14:6 where Jesus claims, “I am the Way…” this means that the path to Heaven is very narrow and the road to hell is as wide as the ocean.
Biblical teaching should be based on the inerrancy of Scripture and not the rationalization of post-modern thinking. Our church plant will utilize the method of small group Bible studies in two phases. The first phase will be a group of 8-12 comprising of married couples or single adults. The intention is simple…to teach Scripture and address the issues and concerns that may be facing the group members. The second phase will be smaller groups of three. Theses groups will be of the same gender and serve the purpose of being accountability groups. In both groups biblical teaching will be pivotal as we invest in the lives of people. We believe that investing in people’s lives with God’s Word is a powerful way to see lives changed for the glory of Christ.
Because He lives
Jeremy
No doubt about it the line has been drawn in the sand for the battle of the souls of men. Biblical teaching will be the bedrock of this church plant. We believe biblical teaching to be the truth and understanding that the Bible is the inerrant and infallible Word of God; meaning that it is without error and does not contradict itself. It contains the answers for all of our problems today. So….when we read that God created the earth in six days and rested on the 7th in Genesis chapter 1 that is exactly what we believe to have happened. In John 14:6 where Jesus claims, “I am the Way…” this means that the path to Heaven is very narrow and the road to hell is as wide as the ocean.
Biblical teaching should be based on the inerrancy of Scripture and not the rationalization of post-modern thinking. Our church plant will utilize the method of small group Bible studies in two phases. The first phase will be a group of 8-12 comprising of married couples or single adults. The intention is simple…to teach Scripture and address the issues and concerns that may be facing the group members. The second phase will be smaller groups of three. Theses groups will be of the same gender and serve the purpose of being accountability groups. In both groups biblical teaching will be pivotal as we invest in the lives of people. We believe that investing in people’s lives with God’s Word is a powerful way to see lives changed for the glory of Christ.
Because He lives
Jeremy
Monday, December 21, 2009
Mission Part 1: God Centered Worship
If you have seen the Living Christmas Tree produced each year by Sevier Heights Baptist Church in Knoxville, then you are familiar with the Heaven scene at the end of the production. This scene is probably my favorite for many reasons. As I watched this scene over the weekend I noticed that as "Jesus" approached the stage to take His seat upon the heavenly throne, everyone was watching Him. All eyes were fixed upon the King of kings in adoration and worship. This is exactly what worship is all about, not just in Heaven but in our churches as well.
In our church plant we are seeking to change lives through worship. This is something that can only be done when the worshippers have their eyes fixed on Jesus. In too many churches the focus of a worship service is not on the Lord. The focus might be on a soloist, music director, choir member, or even the worship style. Churches have gone to contemporary services and traditional services and in the process have put labels on worship. I advocate biblical worship services. By this the focus is not on style but on the Savior. I think we are caught up too much in music preferences, instrument preferences, carpet preferences, hymnal preferences, etc. and in the process we miss the power of Jesus in our congregations.
I believe that true biblical worship can only take place in the life of a believer of Jesus Christ. This is because worship is much more than just one hour on Sunday morning. Worship is a lifestyle of glorifying God with our actions and words. However every church should have a corporate worship service in which believers and non-believers are present. Worship in a corporate setting should include the lifting up of God's Word. Yes the preaching of the Word is still needed and relevant to us today. I am also reminded of the biblical example of when the children of Israel returning from exile heard Ezra read aloud the law of God and how they were struck to the heart by its power, Scripture reading is important!
Another element is prayer. I remember services as a child where prayer was a pivotal part of the service. Imagine a worship service that is totally committed to the power of prayer. Sevier Heights has a service that they call the "House of Prayer." This is a part of worship and it can have a powerful effect on the lives of those who participate. A church that prays during its services and prior to its services will see lives changed! Worship is also orderly and Spirit led. I would encourage you to read 1 Corinthians 14 for more on this aspect of worship. We know that God is orderly and so is the Spirit's leading. Worship services should be structured but not to the point in which they remove the focus and power of the Lord. However I have found that they usually go together. Coincidence? Not a chance....
Because He lives,
Jeremy
In our church plant we are seeking to change lives through worship. This is something that can only be done when the worshippers have their eyes fixed on Jesus. In too many churches the focus of a worship service is not on the Lord. The focus might be on a soloist, music director, choir member, or even the worship style. Churches have gone to contemporary services and traditional services and in the process have put labels on worship. I advocate biblical worship services. By this the focus is not on style but on the Savior. I think we are caught up too much in music preferences, instrument preferences, carpet preferences, hymnal preferences, etc. and in the process we miss the power of Jesus in our congregations.
I believe that true biblical worship can only take place in the life of a believer of Jesus Christ. This is because worship is much more than just one hour on Sunday morning. Worship is a lifestyle of glorifying God with our actions and words. However every church should have a corporate worship service in which believers and non-believers are present. Worship in a corporate setting should include the lifting up of God's Word. Yes the preaching of the Word is still needed and relevant to us today. I am also reminded of the biblical example of when the children of Israel returning from exile heard Ezra read aloud the law of God and how they were struck to the heart by its power, Scripture reading is important!
Another element is prayer. I remember services as a child where prayer was a pivotal part of the service. Imagine a worship service that is totally committed to the power of prayer. Sevier Heights has a service that they call the "House of Prayer." This is a part of worship and it can have a powerful effect on the lives of those who participate. A church that prays during its services and prior to its services will see lives changed! Worship is also orderly and Spirit led. I would encourage you to read 1 Corinthians 14 for more on this aspect of worship. We know that God is orderly and so is the Spirit's leading. Worship services should be structured but not to the point in which they remove the focus and power of the Lord. However I have found that they usually go together. Coincidence? Not a chance....
Because He lives,
Jeremy
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