Background
Research shows there are two compelling reasons for church organizations to establish a New Church Ministry (NCM): First, early in the 21st century, 80 to 85 percent of churches sprinkled across America either plateaued or found themselves in decline. Secondly, establishment of a New Church Ministry is the catalyst for starting new churches which is vital to the future of the church in America and the world. Given the two reasons for establishing a New Church Ministry, the COGBF, Inc. is faced with both challenges.
The Vision Defined
We are committed to establishing a New Church Ministry that will teach, equip, assist, and multiply leaders and congregations to increase missional effectiveness and make disciples for Jesus. The initial goal is to start 50 new sustainable, world-changing churches by the end of 2025.
New Position
Vision 2025 Partners will help fund the hiring of a director of the New Church Ministry Program. The goal is to teach, equip, assist, and multiply leaders for 50 new churches. This includes providing financial support for pastors who are willing to relocate to establish new COGBF ministries.
COGBF 17 STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL CHURCH PLANTING
Starting a new church is a challenging but rewarding venture with many peaks and valleys. However, the Apostle Paul made it his aim because this was at the heart of God. He said, “My ambition has always been to preach the Good News where the name of Christ has never been heard, rather than where a church has already been started by someone else. I have been following the plan spoken of in the Scriptures, where it says, Those who have never been told about him will see, and those who have never heard of him will understand.” Romans 15:20-21NLT
The Church of God by Faith is committed to fulfilling this charge by planting 50 new churches by 2025. The following checklist gives helpful hints to church planters intended to assure a successful plant.
- Know you are called by God to lead or plant a church
Prayer and fasting are your ultimate guarantors here. Abraham was chosen by God and told to “GO” get away from your father’s people; Know God, Sense God, Hear God Seek the Lord for guidance regularly and prayerfully. Pray about the best location, funding strategies and consult with your district superintendent and or Executive Council. Do not try to do it alone.
- Understand our mandate to expand the Body of Christ.
Planting a church is fulfilling Jesus’ biblical mandate as articulated in Matthew 28:18-20: “Then Jesus came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”