Multiply

Faithfulness. It’s a virtue we love in others and aspire to live out in every sphere of our lives.  But what does it mean for a church planter to be faithful to spouse, children and church?

Romans 12:10. “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

The Apostle Paul offers two “one anothers” in this one verse. 

• We are to be devoted to one another. And,
• We are to honor one another … above yourselves.

The word “devoted” means “very loving or loyal.”

When leading a church and training leaders within a church; it is our objective to create a culture of generosity. This will test our faith and theirs, as well as deepen our relationship with our Savior.

Dean Davis says, “Youth can lead cell groups. I know they can do it because I did it when I was a youth. But so often church leaders just look at children, youth, the elderly, and other marginalized groups as people who need to receive ministry. But in Village Church Planting we view every person as a potential minister of the Gospel.”

• Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly
  •   Leaders set the example of this “among you” lifestyle by sharing their lives, and life experiences, with others.
  • Teach One Another Perhaps you have heard this idiom or something like it.  “More is caught than taught.”  The meaning here is that those who follow us “catch” our beliefs and values by observing how we live out our faith.
  • We are also to Admonish one another – to admonish is to rebuke, correct or scold.  While this may not carry with it a pleasant implication, nonetheless Paul saw the need for church leaders to “admonish one another”.    The key is that, when necessary, we admonish “with all wisdom” and with the goal of restoration

If we teach our young people and consistently model these 7 basic commands of Christ, the Church will be a different place. The village and the world would definitely be a different place to live. God has given so much to us and I pray that each one of us use what God has given us for a fruitful life in Christ Jesus.

Today’s podcast encourages church planters to appoint deacons to meet practical needs in the church and in the community.  Sometimes deacons meet needs directly, sometimes they organize others to respond.  Either way, God is glorified and people are blessed.

• Firstly, we are to serve one another. That means that servant leaders place others’ needs higher than their own.
• We are to serve humbly. Among other things, this means that we serve in such a way that does not draw attention to ourselves.
• Finally, we serve in love. Love is our motivation for service to others.  We spoke about this Love for one another in the previous podcast. 

Today’s podcast asks the question, “Are deacons’ leaders?  One of the most important tasks and biggest challenges a church planter faces is the appointment of the first leaders in a new congregation.

The word deacon means servant, this is what they are doing in this passage of scripture! By serving others, it shall speak to the heart of men, women, and children. Are they hungry? Feed them! How? By teaching them how to farm, walking along side them as you do? Another question may be asked; how to serve the widows, the orphans, the sick and the list is long and continuous.