Biblical Foundation and Reasons of Church Planting

What the Church Is

A local church is a gathering of baptized, born-again Christians who covenant together in love to meet regularly under the authority of the Scriptures and the leadership of the elders to worship God, be a visible image of the gospel, and, ultimately, to give God glory (John 3:1–8; 13:34–35; Acts 2:41; 14:23; Eph. 3:10; Col. 3:16; 2 Tim. 3:16–17; Heb. 10:24–25).

The Mission of the Church

The church is God’s strategic plan for evangelism with one overarching mission: to go to all peoples to make disciples, teaching them to obey everything Christ has commanded—including forming new churches (Matt. 28:18–20).

“The Church is a spiritual entity, ordained by the Father, built by Christ, in-dwelt by the Holy Spirit (Trinity)”

The Reasons for Church Planting

· Church Planting is more than a practical necessity. It is a Biblical mandate. Two aspects of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 entail church planting – the command to baptize and the command to teach obedience to all that Christ commanded.

· These are virtually impossible to fulfill apart from planting churches.

Biblical Reasons for Planting new Churches

1. Church planting is an expression of the heart of God.

- Luke 15:1-32 – Parables of the lost sheep; lost coin; lost son

2. Church planting expands the mission of God.

- Matthew 28:18-20 – The Great Commission

- Acts 1:8 – To be the witnesses for Jesus

3. Church planting empowers the people of God.

- 2 Cor. 5:20 – Christians are Ambassadors of God

- 1 Cor 3:5-7 – Church Planters partner with God

Practical Reasons for Church Planting

1. New churches grow faster and reach more non- Christians.

2. New churches can reach people groups not reached by existing churches.

3. New churches stimulate established churches to greater evangelistic activity.

4. New churches mobilize more workers.

Church planting is tough—but rewarding—work

· Church planting is difficult work that can challenge the most devoted believers.

· It can be exciting, sometimes frustrating and brutal, but rewarding.