Planting New Testament Churches

I feel so excited about Crossroads Community Church and extending the Kingdom. Throughout the gospels, Jesus spoke mostly about extending the Kingdom. Then, in Acts 1, Jesus met with the disciples and again spoke about the Kingdom. How was it going to advance in an on-going, sustainable, healthy manner? Acts 2, the first local church is born in Jerusalem.

The establishment of vibrant local churches in communities can transform many lives. The kingdom is advanced through local churches that are beacons of light – where people are born again. So exciting!

Brief History of the Church
Extract by Terry Virgo

Terry Virgo

John was amazed. He had never seen anything like it. The sight drained his strength and he collapsed to the ground paralysed with fear and wonder. Then the most tender voice he had ever heard – strangely familiar it was – told him not to fear. He looked again. None other than the glorified Christ stood before him; the one he had seen humiliated and crucified, now in glory that defied description. The King of the universe and the Lord of history had come to speak to John and to tell him a series of amazing secrets about the world and its ultimate destiny. Breathtaking visions were about to be revealed, with implications which stretched down through the centuries. But first, Christ, the Master of all history, wanted to speak to some particular local churches about their present problems and pains, their joys and fears.

We tend to think that although Christ loves the worldwide church, local churches have no special place in his affection. But the book of Revelation shows Jesus not as one vaguely in the midst of the church, but walking amongst the individual lamp stands. He knows each local church intimately. He commends one and warns another. He notes steadfastness here and apathy there. Each is an open book to him. His longing for a bride is seen in His concern and ambition for each congregation. Christ loved the church and gave himself for her. Ephesians 5:25. She is his special delight in all the universe. She is his joy, his preoccupation, his passion, his darling bride. In all creation one thing fills the heart of Christ – his beloved church.

We need to rediscover the incredible value and significance of the local church in God’s plan and perspective. She is not to be ignored and despised; she is to be honoured and cherished.

I just LOVE the local church