So you want to plant a church? That’s great! If you read my last post, then you know that I am big fan of planting prevailing, life-giving local churches. But before you plant, make sure you ask yourself this question:
Do I know a fully as certainly as humanly possible that I am CALLED to plant a church and to be a senior pastor?
I don’t mean to be the bearer of bad news, but I think this is a true statement: If you are not certain that planting and pastoring a church is your life’s calling, it is very likely you will not succeed.
The demands that ministry places on you, your family, your finances, your health and your own personal faith will swallow you whole if you are not fully convinced that it is your God-given calling and destiny in Christ. Of course there will be moments of doubt and discouragement. Everyone has those moments – I have had them, too. But no matter what is gong on, I can never deny the moment God called me to ministry. Paul wrote in Phil. 3:12b “…I press on to take hold of that for which Christ took hold of me.” Pastoring Celebration Church is the purpose for which Christ took hold of me and I am compelled by Him to keep pressing forward in that calling even in times of trial.
In a time when planting a church has a near science behind it, it’s important to remember that still it takes a LOT more than a hot venue, cool lights, and clever marketing to birth and sustain a prevailing church. Planting a church is not merely an entrepreneurial endeavor, like opening a business franchise. Even in the 21st Century, church planting and pastoring are still sacred callings from God. It will take tremendous sacrifice, relentless prayer, and what I call “Kingdom sweat.” If you are considering planting a church, make sure you aren’t looking at it like a career option. If you are looking at it as just a career option, you already don’t have what it takes. God’s true churches are birthed by His Spirit through those whom He has truly called.
Stovall
Great thoughts. I am in the beginning stages of planting and after years of questioning myself, I have come to realize that I am definitely CALLED to do this. I am excited, even with all of the challenges, to impact the world for Christ!
We have planted churches for many years and it has cost us everything. The lights and presentation are only the superficial aspect of church life, and probably the easiest. A church needs heart, filled with God’s Spirit to empower it into life, otherwise it is just a show. This must start with the pastor and his passionate relationship with GOD, then flow into his people. I have never had personal benefit for pastoring or planting, apart from seeing others saved and established in their God-given gifting for the glory of GOD. Best life ever, if you are willing to give up everything and not have any affirmation for what you do. Love GOD, Love people, LOVE His church to bring light and life to this world. Taking new ground is the best way to see His kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.
Hello Pastor, just wanted to take a moment of your time to thank you and your wife for another year at Celebration. What a great year it has been. My wife and I come to tears every time we drive by the construction of the new church. God is good and He will deliver just like his Word said. We are looking forward to the new year at Celebration and we will continue to seek what He has for us. Pastor in closing I just wanted to thank you for the Word the Lord gave you last Sunday – FAVOR. I believe that there are many words that God has given you, but the word I will remember last Sunday is FAVOR. This will be our best year ever if it’s our best spiritually. We love you guys and you are covered in daily prayer.