Church PLANT Manual

xvi • Church PLANT Manual

occur, laying a foundational community for new believers to grow in their faith.

Church Planting Acknowledges the Local Church as the Kingdom’s Locus and Agent

The narrative of Scripture unfolds the theme of God’s kingdom rule expanding across the earth, from the covenant promise to Abraham that all peoples on earth would be blessed through him (Gen. 12:1-3) to the vision in Revelation of a multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language worshiping before the throne of God (Rev. 7:9-10). Church planting is the apostolic activity that serves as a tangible expression of this kingdom expansion. To plant a local church where Christ is known and glorified demonstrates where God’s rule and reign are manifest (locus) and where that reign can be demonstrated and announced in new neighborhoods among new groups of people (agent). The lovingkindness of the Almighty God for the world through his Son Jesus Christ is the dominant message of the New Testament. John 3:16 powerfully summarizes and declares this elemental claim, announcing God’s love revealed in the sacrificial sending of His Son for all humanity. Planting churches is a tangible act revealing this love, communicating to every neighborhood, person, and group that his offer extends to all. No place is too remote, different, or challenging for the Gospel; all places everywhere deserve to hear of God’s sovereign plan to save a remnant of humankind for his eternal purpose. Every new church planting effort is visible proof of the inclusivity of God’s invitation to salvation; that new gathering of believers both underscores and affirms the worth and value of every person and every soul in that community regarding God’s eternal plan. Church Planting Represents a Tangible Demonstration of God’s Love for People Yet to Believe