The Beginning of NEW BEGINNINGS

It is true that there are numerous churches in the Plateau Region, and one might wonder why we would be interested in starting yet another. I have considered this question myself. The fact is, there are still thousands of people who are unsaved and do not go to church anywhere.

I was reading a book from the Center for Biblical Leadership today, Evangelism and Assimilation, and noted the following paragraph:

"There is a deceptive philosophy in the air that says there are already too many churches. Some, perhaps, may feel there are too many of our own congregations in their area. The validated, authenticated, unmitigated truth is that there is no such thing as OVER-CHURCHING in America or the world as of yet. I personally doubt that such a day will ever arise.... To believe that there are already too many churches is an indictment for ingrown introspection with no vision for the Master's harvest."

Our goal at New Beginnings is not to work in competition with other churches. As I have said before on this blog, there is an estimated 53,000 people in Cumberland County, and a growing minority population and the vast majority of them do not attend church anywhere. The harvest is ripe, let's start harvesting.

It's Time For A NEW BEGINNING

Yesterday I began my new ministry as a church planter. Last night I met with a small group of 18 to discuss our mission and how we would proceed. As we began our meeting, I asked those present for a commitment to assist in the mission efforts as we reach out into the area to win new people to the Lord with the goal of organizing a church. Seventeen people signed their names. There were some who were unable to attend tonight whom I believe will also commit to this work.

One of the first things we discussed was the need for a name that would help to identify our mission and our target. Several ideas were brought up and discussed. Finally, someone spoke up and said, “I think we need a name that will demonstrate change. Something that will give hope.” Someone else said, “Like, maybe, New Beginnings.” The Holy Ghost seemed to put His approval on this suggestion, as there was spontaneous praise and worship and an awesome sense of His presence in the room. New Beginnings Family Outreach Ministries was adopted by one accord.

As we proceeded with discussion I was informed that another church has already committed to adopt us as a mission partner with a monthly gift. Additionally, we were given a one thousand dollar check by someone else to assist in the harvest.

I never cease to be amazed at what the Lord is doing. This is definitely a God thing!

What A Day!!!

It has been a busy day, indeed. My father and my brother came to Sunbright with a U-haul trailer to help me load up my office and move it to Crossville. A very special "THANK YOU" to Josie Eldridge and Ronnie Norris, who came to help us load the trailer. Since I don't have a place to live there yet, we placed it in storage.

I was dreading the idea of going house shopping, but it seems that the Lord has opened a door to provide a beautiful dwelling for me and a small chapel in which we could have services on a temporary basis. It simply amazes me how God has directed every step we have taken by faith and then proven Himself by making provision for us. My excitement seems to grow on a daily basis.

It's Official

Yesterday at the State Convention Bishop McKinley announced that Donald Lawrence will be the new pastor of Sonbright Christian Center. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate him on his new assignment. I believe God has great things ahead for this church. I would like to encourage all the members of SCC to continue to support the church and your new pastor and to work together in the harvesting efforts in Morgan County.

Bishop McKinley also announced that I will be doing mission work in Cumberland County with the goal of organizing a church. There is an estimated 53,000 people in Cumberland County with a growing minority population. We will not to be in competition with the other churches in the area. We simply want to reach out and join in the harvest.

I am very excited about what God is doing, and I am committed to follow as He leads. The road is not always easy, but His grace is sufficient.