I’m Fired Up!

Hello Blogosphere…. I’ve taken a season of fasting from the blog world to focus on hearing from God and seeking His direction. I’ve known with every fiber in my being that I was called to pastor since I was 21 years old. The ride I’ve been on has been nothing short of incredible. The vision God has burning in my belly is to set the city of Wichita on fire with the revolution of Jesus Christ.

Now starts a new season with the launching this Sunday of GracePoint Community Church. I cannot wait to see what the Lord does in this new venture. Please come out and join us starting Sunday March 8th at 9:30 and 11:00 at Northwest High School (13th and Tyler).

I resigned from the United Methodist Church and GracePoint United Methodist Church on March 1st along with our entire staff, board of directors, and 100% of the leadership of the church. It’s very rare to have 100% of people on board for anything, but I was floored by how this has rallied people. I have received more e-mails and voicemails of encouragement this week than any other time in my life. We do not see this as a “church split” because our church is ONE behind the decision.

Let me make one thing clear. There is absolutely no malice in my heart toward the UMC as a denomination or anyone who is in leadership at the UMC. I am forever be grateful to the UMC for my start in ministry and to the conference for sponsoring the launch of GP UMC. I hope that the UMC reaches gazillions for Christ in this city and all over the world. Please know that this was a very difficult decision. I spent a great deal of time listening to God as well as receiving wise counsel.

We are making this move now because of both the short-term opportunities GP has to expand the vision as well as position us for long-term success. We want to reach people far from Jesus Christ and have plans for multiple locations. A non-denominational structure will allow us the liberty to spread the message of Jesus - and our campuses - across the city. Our vision is truly a movement of God and does not fit traditional church systems. We will align ourselves with other churches that are similar in style and vision so that we can work in unison to make a kingdom difference. We are connecting with the Association of Related Churches and the Willowcreek Association.    

We are very serious about fulfilling the vision God has given us for GPCC. We believe the sky is the limit when there are no limitations to where we can expand the church. We have the opportunity during this season to put God in the driver’s seat and fulfill the vision God has given us to “take great risks to reach people far from Jesus Christ.” A foundational verse for this church comes from Luke 19:26 (Msg.) where Jesus says “Risk your life and get more than you ever dreamed of. Play it safe and end up holding the bag.”

Finally, I want you to understand that we are not competing with any other churches in this city, but see every other church as a partner in fulfilling the great commission. We are all on the same team when it comes to reaching people who do not know Jesus Christ. Sometimes there is a competitive nature between churches. However, in reality, our competition is all the other things people have to do with their time, not other churches! There is well over 60% of people in Wichita who are not in church on Sunday mornings. No one will reach all of them.  We want to partner with anyone and everyone who has a passion to reach people for Christ. Let’s work together to set off a revolution by starting more new churches all over this city. Let’s ask God to set this city on fire and let people come watch us burn with love and passion for the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ! I am just a little FIRED UP!!!!