“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? And how can anyone preach unless they
are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good
news!” Romans
10:14-15
Church growth
Specialist Dr. Thom Ranier’s recent research concludes, to his surprise, there
is little correlation between a church’s location and its growth. So what is
the biggest factor in a church breakthrough? If there is any one basic lesson
to learn, it is to lead the church to an outward focus, literally back to the
basics.
Can I
paraphrase what Dr. Thom is saying here?
“Where your building
is located is not nearly as important as where your heart is located.”
And what are
the basics Dr. Ranier is talking about? Here’s a hint – Great Commission - as
in evangelism and discipleship.
A little
less than a year ago we did something that has been significant in the process
of relocating the heart of FredWes. On the week of Thanksgiving we decided to
prepare our usual Thanksgiving feast for our annual church Thanksgiving dinner,
but instead of enjoying it ourselves we decided to share it with the good folks
at the EconoLodge. Since then we have had several more opportunities to serve
them and are planning other outreaches there.
What has
happened in the months since we began our outreach to EconoLodge? Let me list
them for you:
1) Our weekly
giving has increased
2) Our
attendance has increased
3) Several
people from there have been showing up at worship services and one has become a
member at FredWes!
4) God has
led us to more exciting opportunities for outreach! In just a few weeks we will
receive financial commitments toward drilling a well in a remote African
village. We will have the chance to support Rich and Kara Tippey in their
mission trip to Guatemala, and in February we will take a team to minister at
Hephzibah Children’s Home!
5) Twenty of
our core people have committed to reach one person for Christ by April 30,
2014.
Relocating
the heart is the result of being moved upon by the Spirit of God until His
priorities are our priorities and His passion is our passion. That change happens
one heart at a time.
God is moving
on hearts at FredWes.
Is it
happening in your heart?
Are your
priorities being challenged or changed?
Are you
praying for the salvation of specific unsaved people?
Do you find
yourself becoming more passionate about spreading the Gospel?
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