Ripe for Harvest

S ESSION 2: P REPARE • 135

Session 2 Prepare: Be the Church Themes and Objectives

Main Concept Prepare: Be the Church

Objectives After this session you will be able to:

• Articulate the basic themes related to effective church planting preparation, including seeking God for his leading regarding the target population, the community, the formation of the team, the expressions of church you wish to plant, and your initial discussion of what association, denomination or affiliations you will make. • Recite the importance of using our freedom in Christ to respect the receiving culture of those among whom we are planting a church. • Despite the target population of our church plant, state the basic concepts which make up a biblical theology of the poor, which highlights God’s call of and our corresponding respect for them, their election according to God’s grace, and their call to lead in matters of the Kingdom of God. • Define the basic characteristics of effective team play, and how your team can enhance its ability to function more effectively together in your efforts. • Outline generally the standard practices you intend to incorporate into your church life (i.e., its theology, worship, spiritual formation, and witness) in the expression of church you will plant. Key Scripture Eph. 5.15-17 (ESV) – Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

Context Values/Vision Prepare Launch Assemble Nurture Transition Schedule/Charter