Church Plants Don't Grow From Books

Church plants don't grow from books. Crafting strategy, developing ideas, and implementing 'tried-and-true' models of ministry might grow a group of people, at least for a time. But success as a missionary does not result from reading books, listening to podcasts, or having a 4.0 GPA in mission class. Rather, being a successful missionary is being a faithful disciple. Intimacy with Christ, living the new life of love, grace, and freedom that is found in Him-that will lead to success, regardless of how the results appear to the world. Hardships often hit the faithful, meant by Satan to rob God of His glory but meant by God to increase His glory through the peace, love, and joy that He gives to His children. Remember what Joseph said to his brothers: what they meant for evil, God meant for good. 

I do not write this because I have personally experienced physical trials in Cleveland, but I have seen many trials in the lives of the faithful missionaries here. Car wrecks, building disasters, struggles with discouragement, opposition from the religious, financial hardships... the list goes on and on. Really, no church planter that I know has tread an easy path. As a future full-time missionary, am I prepared to face the difficulties when they come? I have no idea. But I trust that our God gives grace and peace that surpasses all human understanding. 

Since being a successful missionary depends on being a faithful disciple, Barnabas's central focus is raising up more disciples who are committed to make more disciples. Everything is geared towards leadership development, encouragement, and equipping. The people who come to Barnabas are not meant to stay forever; they are expected to be sent out with prayers and blessings to form more disciple-making house churches. The number of members of Barnabas will never grow exceedingly large because intimacy and personal encouragement are essential for Barnabas to serve its purpose. In raising up disciple-making-disciples, Barnabas seeks to serve the kingdom of our God. 

Below, Francis Chan explains how the first-century church might be emulated in modern urban contexts. Though we are making no intent to imitate Chan's model (we discovered this video after the rough draft of the mission statement and vision of Barnabas had been developed), many of the core principles are the same. This video helped us to clarify our vision; hopefully, it will help clarify our vision for you as well. 

Today's Prayer Place: 10501 Lee Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106. This is a corner store near Vision House, and the owner is a potential person of influence.