missio

It’s been a while since I’ve done a list. So here’s one that noone is paying attention to: the most effective church plants of the past year. Here’s the definition of a church plant I’m using:

church plant (n.) - A Biblically faithful church that has had its first service within the past two years.

What does it mean for a church to be “Biblically faithful”? Here’s the characteristics:

• The church must teach that Jesus is God.
• The church must teach that Jesus died on the cross for our sins.
• The church must teach that Jesus rose from the dead to conquer sin and death.
• The church must adhere to Biblical Scripture as the Word of God, absolute truth, and the final authority for Christians.
• The church must baptize new believers.
• The church must believe that the Holy Spirit works through us today.
• Lastly, the church must teach that the Kingdom of God is currently invading the world through the church, one day at a time.

The churches will be judged as effective by weekly attendance (as proportionate to target population), yearly baptisms (as evidence of new conversions), and finally, by concrete impact on the culture around them (homeless shelter ministries, community involvement, etc.).

Is it right to do this? Yes. This is a simple way to keep church planters accountable to what’s right and just, as well as to encourage church planters that it can be done today. As new church planters, we as individuals need role models to follow behind (just as Paul said follow me for I follow Christ); the church is no different. Lastly, this list will be a chance to celebrate what Christ is doing throughout the States through the up and coming church planting movement! (in other words, it’s not about us, it’s about Him)

Want to nominate a church? Email me at derek@harmonydc.com or comment here!