Vision for the Future: 75 Years of Faithfulness

Devotional

Day 1: Mission and Vision Rooted in Scripture

Our mission to glorify God by uniting a community of Christ-followers who love God, love others, and reach out is deeply rooted in Scripture. This mission is not self-serving but aims to reflect God's heart and purpose for His church. It provides clarity and direction for all our decisions and actions. The mission is a constant reminder that our ultimate goal is to glorify God in everything we do. By loving God, loving others, and reaching out, we embody the teachings of Jesus and fulfill the Great Commission. This mission is not just a statement but a way of life that guides our community in every aspect.

As we reflect on this mission, it is essential to remember that it is grounded in the Word of God. Scripture provides the foundation and the blueprint for how we are to live out this mission. It is through the study and application of God's Word that we can truly understand and fulfill our calling as a church. Our mission is a response to God's love and grace, and it is through His strength and guidance that we can accomplish it. [21:50]

1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."

Reflection: How can you actively participate in our church's mission to love God, love others, and reach out this week? What specific actions can you take to reflect God's heart and purpose in your daily life?

Day 2: Building Expansion for Greater Impact

The building expansion is crucial for accommodating our growing youth and children's ministries, expanding our community outreach, and providing more space for worship. This initiative will enable us to better serve our community and fulfill our mission. As our church grows, so does the need for more space to effectively minister to our congregation and the surrounding community. The expansion will provide the necessary facilities to support our various ministries and outreach programs, allowing us to have a more significant impact on those we serve.

The building expansion is not just about physical space; it is about creating an environment where people can encounter God, grow in their faith, and build meaningful relationships. By investing in this project, we are investing in the future of our church and the spiritual growth of our community. It is an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to God's work and to provide a place where people of all ages can come together to worship, learn, and serve. [24:51]

Ephesians 2:19-22 (ESV): "So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit."

Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to the building expansion project, whether through prayer, financial support, or volunteering your time and talents? How can you help create an environment where others can encounter God and grow in their faith?

Day 3: Church Planting as God's Plan A

Starting a new church in East York is aligned with God's plan for advancing His kingdom through the multiplication of churches. This biblical strategy has proven effective over centuries and is essential for reaching the spiritually lost and providing a healthy, Christ-centered community. Church planting is not just a modern trend; it is a time-tested method that God has used throughout history to spread the gospel and establish His kingdom on earth. By planting a new church, we are participating in God's mission to reach those who are far from Him and to provide a place where they can experience His love and grace.

The new church in East York will be a beacon of hope and light in a community with a great need for the gospel. It will provide a healthy, biblical, and Christ-centered environment where people can come to know Jesus and grow in their faith. This initiative is driven by our desire to see lives transformed by the power of the gospel and to make a lasting impact on the community. [32:12]

Acts 13:2-3 (ESV): "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off."

Reflection: How can you support the church planting initiative in East York, whether through prayer, financial contributions, or getting involved in the ministry? What role can you play in advancing God's kingdom through this new church?

Day 4: Leadership and Community Involvement

The leadership team for the new church, comprising John Gostone, Jeff Marble, and Pastor Nate, brings a wealth of experience and a deep sense of calling. Their involvement highlights the importance of committed and gifted leaders in advancing God's vision for our church. Effective leadership is crucial for the success of any ministry, and the leaders of the new church plant have been carefully chosen for their unique gifts and experiences. Their dedication and passion for God's work will be instrumental in establishing a healthy and thriving church in East York.

Leadership is not just about holding a position or title; it is about serving others and guiding them towards God's purposes. The leaders of the new church plant are committed to serving the community and helping others grow in their faith. Their example of servant leadership will inspire and encourage others to get involved and to use their gifts for God's glory. [35:20]

1 Timothy 3:1-3 (ESV): "The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money."

Reflection: How can you support and encourage the leadership team of the new church plant? What steps can you take to develop your own leadership skills and to serve others in your community?

Day 5: Personal Transformation and Community Impact

Craig Cook's testimony of personal transformation through Christ underscores the importance of our mission. His story is a powerful reminder that many in our community are searching for hope and healing, which can only be found in Jesus. Our initiatives aim to reach these individuals and bring them into a life-changing relationship with Christ. Personal transformation is at the heart of the gospel, and Craig's story is a testament to the power of God's love and grace to change lives.

As a church, we are called to be a light in our community and to share the hope and healing that only Jesus can provide. By reaching out to those who are hurting and lost, we can make a significant impact on our community and help others experience the transformative power of the gospel. Craig's testimony is a reminder that our mission is not just about programs and initiatives; it is about changing lives and bringing people into a relationship with Jesus. [01:14:34]

2 Corinthians 5:17-18 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation."

Reflection: Think of someone in your life who is in need of hope and healing. How can you share the love of Christ with them this week? What steps can you take to help them experience the transformative power of the gospel?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

This morning, we concluded our mini-series titled "Family Chat" by focusing on the vision and direction of Community Bible Church (CBC) for the next 75 years. As we approach our 75th anniversary, we reflect on God's faithfulness and look forward to where He is leading us. Our mission remains to glorify God by uniting a community of Christ-followers who love God, love others, and reach out. This mission is rooted in Scripture and guides our actions and decisions.

Our vision is to reach the local community and younger generations with the good news of Jesus. This vision helps us make decisions about staffing, finances, and programming. To accomplish this vision, we are focusing on two key initiatives: a building expansion and starting a new church in East York.

The building expansion is necessary to accommodate our growing youth and children's ministries, expand our community outreach, and provide more space for worship services. The new church in East York aligns with God's plan for advancing His kingdom through the multiplication of churches. This initiative is driven by our desire to reach the spiritually lost and provide a healthy, biblical, and Christ-centered church in a community with a great need.

We introduced the leadership team for the new church, which includes John Gostone, Jeff Marble, and Pastor Nate. Each brings unique gifts and experiences to this endeavor. We also shared the timeline for the feasibility study and the critical months ahead as we seek God's direction for both initiatives.

Finally, we heard a powerful testimony from Craig Cook, who shared how Christ has transformed his life and relationships over the past year. His story underscores the importance of our mission and vision, as there are many like Craig in our community who need the hope and healing that only Jesus can provide.

###

Key Takeaways

1. followers who love God, love others, and reach out is deeply rooted in Scripture. This mission is not self-serving but aims to reflect God's heart and purpose for His church. It provides clarity and direction for all our decisions and actions. [21:50]
2. Building Expansion for Greater Impact: The building expansion is crucial for accommodating our growing youth and children's ministries, expanding our community outreach, and providing more space for worship. This initiative will enable us to better serve our community and fulfill our mission.

3. Church Planting as God's Plan A: Starting a new church in East York is aligned with God's plan for advancing His kingdom through the multiplication of churches. This biblical strategy has proven effective over centuries and is essential for reaching the spiritually lost and providing a healthy, Christ-centered community.

4. Leadership and Community Involvement: The leadership team for the new church, comprising John Gostone, Jeff Marble, and Pastor Nate, brings a wealth of experience and a deep sense of calling. Their involvement highlights the importance of committed and gifted leaders in advancing God's vision for our church.

5. Personal Transformation and Community Impact: Craig Cook's testimony of personal transformation through Christ underscores the importance of our mission. His story is a powerful reminder that many in our community are searching for hope and healing, which can only be found in Jesus. Our initiatives aim to reach these individuals and bring them into a life-changing relationship with Christ.

### [21:50]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[21:50] - Mission and Vision of CBC
[23:14] - Importance of Vision Statement
[24:51] - Building Expansion Overview
[26:19] - Community Outreach Initiatives
[27:51] - Building Expansion Details
[32:12] - Church Planting in East York
[33:39] - Reasons for Church Planting
[35:20] - Leadership Team Introduction
[63:51] - Timeline and Feasibility Study
[65:20] - Critical Months Ahead
[66:53] - Personal Reflections and Commitment
[68:23] - Craig Cook's Testimony
[74:34] - Community Impact and Personal Transformation
[81:17] - Closing Remarks and Prayer

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What is the mission of Community Bible Church (CBC) as described in the sermon? ([21:50])
Why is the building expansion considered necessary for CBC? ([24:51])
Who are the members of the leadership team for the new church in East York? ([35:20])
What personal transformation did Craig Cook share in his testimony? ([01:14:34])

Interpretation Questions

How does the mission of CBC to "glorify God by uniting a community of Christ-followers who love God, love others, and reach out" reflect the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20? ([21:50])
In what ways does the building expansion align with the vision to reach the local community and younger generations? ([24:51])
Why is church planting considered "God's Plan A" for advancing His kingdom according to the sermon? ([32:12])
How does Craig Cook's testimony illustrate the impact of CBC's mission and vision on individual lives? ([01:14:34])

Application Questions

Reflecting on CBC's mission, how can you personally contribute to uniting a community of Christ-followers who love God, love others, and reach out? ([21:50])
Considering the need for building expansion, how can you support the youth and children's ministries at CBC, either through volunteering or other means? ([24:51])
Church planting is a significant initiative. How can you be involved in the new church in East York, whether through prayer, financial support, or participation? ([32:12])
Craig Cook shared how his life and relationships were transformed by Christ. Can you think of someone in your life who needs hope and healing? How can you reach out to them this week? ([01:14:34])
The sermon emphasized the importance of leadership and community involvement. What gifts or experiences do you have that could contribute to CBC's mission and vision? ([35:20])
How can you pray for the critical months ahead as CBC seeks God's direction for the building expansion and church planting initiatives? ([01:05:20])
Reflect on your own spiritual journey. How has being part of CBC impacted your faith, and how can you share that impact with others in your community? ([01:14:34])

Sermon Clips

1. "CBC's mission, why we exist, our purpose is to glorify God by uniting a community of Christ followers who love God, who love others and reach out. This statement is something that flows directly from the scriptures and it's not something that we've come up with as elders like what is the purpose of the church why does the church exist the scriptures is clear that we're a community of Christ followers and his heart is that we would be one as he and the father is one and ultimately by the that we exist not to glorify ourselves or to make a name for ourselves but to glorify him and how we glorify him is by loving God loving others and reaching out." [21:50] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "From the very beginning of CBC, built into our DNA, into our culture, why God has placed Community Bible Church here is so that we would be his hands and feet, his voice to this local community. And from the very beginning, the focus of this church has been to focus on the children and youth ministry. And so it's why he made us. It's the unique vision that God has for us." [23:14] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Pastor Don, our pastor of outreach, who oversees this ministry, is very clear that CBC is not in the food business. We're not in a clothing business. We're in the Jesus business. And so individuals who come in here for physical needs, the staff who volunteer there have opportunity to sit down with them, listen to them, hear their stories, pray with them, help them to understand the plan, salvation, and share Jesus with them." [26:19] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Starting churches is God's plan A for growing the church, growing and advancing his kingdom as we look at the scriptures specifically the New Testament and even more specifically the book of Acts we see that God's plan God's design for advancing his kingdom is through the multiplication of churches and so as we looked to start a church in East York it's a strategy that is biblical it's a strategy that has been proven effective in various cultures over hundreds and literally thousands of years." [32:12] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "There are so many Craigs in the surrounding communities. Individuals like Craig who are struggling to maintain hope, who are in many ways self-destructing, spiritually lost and floundering, looking for hope, peace, and direction. And you and I know the deep longings of our heart can only be found and met through Jesus Christ." [01:14:34] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "For my life and for this world, the answer is Jesus. I believe that with all of my heart, and I hope you do the same. And I appreciate the way that song ends. It turns from the world needs Jesus to I need Jesus. And I want to remind us this morning that we all need Jesus every single day. Because we're broken. We're sinful, just like the individuals out there. And we're no better than them. And so, it's from that place that we can be the hands and feet and the voice of Jesus." [01:21:17] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "My heart is filled with gratitude. My heart is filled with excitement. When I think about the potential of seeing the youth ministry and children's ministry expand, when I think about the opportunity to start a local church in East York and the impact that that could have for the future, I'm filled with for generations, I get excited. And thirdly, I'm invested. I'm fully invested." [01:06:53] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "We want to reflect the heart of God for the spiritually lost and we believe that starting a church in East York where we can have the presence of Christ through his followers to be the hands the feet and the voice of God is a way for those who are spiritually lost to have the opportunity to come to know Jesus as their savior." [33:39] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "There was a need 73 years ago to start a local church community bible church and if there was a need then the need now is far far greater with where our world and culture is not just a church but a church that is healthy a church that is biblical a church that is christ-centered." [35:20] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "We have a deep conviction that God's brought me to this place. God wants to continue to use me in this next season. Lord will, and as long as he gives me the health and the ability to do that, and it's not just something that I'm doing because I believe that God's called me to, it's something that I'm excited about doing." [01:08:23] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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