I met with an incredible local pastor yesterday who started his church 10 years ago. He was such an encouragement to me and dripped with insight about church planting. But he stopped my questions early-on to clear the air about his success. He started with a gift of $500,000, a 5-acre tract of land, and multiple staff. That's not to say he didn't have his struggles, but he was set-up for success by the Kingdom-mindedness of other churches.
He had some great things to say about church plants in year five, which is where we're at...
- The fifth year is like re-entering the earth's atmosphere after a shuttle launch. You've gotta withstand the heat.
- Year five can also be like Junior High. You've got this body you're pretty clumsy in, but it'll get easier over time if you can survive the ridicule.
- Church planting is the only endeavor that has a biblically prescribed exit strategy. If a local community rejects you, "shake the dust off your feet."
Ben,
I'm glad I found your blog. My wife and I are in our 16 month of a new church plant in Salem, Oregon. Salem is the capitol of the most unchurched sate in the nation. We have more jails and prisons in our county than any other county in the nation. We are conducting our services in a middle school in NE Salem. The neighborhood is the hotspot in Salem for gang activity as gangs are fighting for turf there.
I look forward to reading your blog and gaining insight. We have pastored existing churches, but this is our first church plant. It's been a struggle, but God is proving faithful.
Know that you are loved,
Greg
Posted by: Greg Johnson | June 21, 2007 at 12:40 PM
Greg, that's so inspiring! The world needs more people like you. Looking forward to sharing the journey together.
Posted by: Ben | June 21, 2007 at 04:24 PM