Starting a new church is an exciting mission, but what guidance does the Bible offer? Today, we’ll explore how Scripture directs us in spreading the gospel and establishing new places of worship.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Evil Spirits
What Does The Bible Say About Church Planting
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
This verse emphasizes the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples. It highlights the importance of reaching out to all nations and making disciples. Church planting is a crucial aspect of fulfilling this command. By establishing new churches, we can bring the Good News to different communities and teach them to obey the teachings of Christ.
Furthermore, this verse reminds us that we are not alone in this task. Jesus promises His presence with us always, providing comfort, guidance, and strength as we engage in church planting.
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”
This verse describes the early believers’ commitment to the core practices of the church. Church planting involves cultivating a community centered on teaching, fellowship, communion, and prayer. These elements create a strong foundation for spiritual growth and unity among believers.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to prioritize these essential aspects of the church’s life, ensuring that new believers are rooted in sound doctrine, experience genuine fellowship, partake in the Lord’s Supper, and deepen their prayer life.
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This verse highlights the role of the Holy Spirit and the expansion of God’s kingdom. Church planting is not limited to a specific location but is meant to spread to the ends of the earth. The Holy Spirit empowers and equips believers to be witnesses, sharing the Gospel with boldness and effectiveness.
When planting churches, we must rely on the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, trusting that He will open doors, enable us to communicate effectively, and transform lives through the message of salvation.
1 Corinthians 3:6-7
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.”
This verse emphasizes the partnership between God and His servants in church planting. While human effort is necessary, ultimately, it is God who brings growth and transformation. Church planters should humbly recognize their dependence on God, trusting in His power to work through their efforts.
When engaging in church planting, we must remember that our role is to faithfully sow the seed of the Gospel, confidently water it through teaching and discipleship, and fervently pray for God to bring the increase.
Ephesians 4:16
“From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”
This verse emphasizes the communal nature of the church and the importance of every member playing their part. Church planting involves bringing together individuals with diverse gifts and talents to contribute to the growth and development of the body of Christ.
As we plant churches, it is vital to foster an environment where each member can discover and utilize their spiritual gifts, actively participating in the work of building up the church in love.
Acts 14:21-23
“They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. ‘We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,’ they said.”
This passage depicts Paul and Barnabas’ approach to church planting. After proclaiming the Gospel and witnessing conversions, they invested time in nurturing and strengthening the new believers. They recognized the importance of providing ongoing support and encouragement, reminding the disciples of the challenges they may face as followers of Christ.
Church planting involves not only the initial establishment of a new church but also the ongoing discipleship and care of believers. It is essential to equip new converts with a solid foundation in the faith and prepare them for the inevitable hardships that arise in their journey.
1 Timothy 3:15
“…if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.”
This verse highlights the significance of the church as the pillar and foundation of truth. Church planting is essential in establishing communities of believers who uphold and proclaim the truth of God’s Word in a world that often opposes it.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to emphasize the authority and sufficiency of Scripture, ensuring that the truth is taught, defended, and lived out within the church and its surrounding community.
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of regular gathering within the church. Church planting involves creating spaces where believers can come together to encourage one another, inspire love and good deeds, and receive spiritual nourishment.
When establishing new churches, it is crucial to foster a culture of mutual support, accountability, and encouragement, enabling believers to endure and grow in their faith as they eagerly await the return of Christ.
Colossians 2:6-7
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”
This verse encourages believers to remain rooted in Christ, growing in their faith through ongoing teaching and discipleship. Church planting involves establishing strong foundations in the lives of new believers, ensuring that they are firmly rooted in Christ and His Word.
As we plant churches, we must prioritize the spiritual growth and maturation of individuals, equipping them to live lives characterized by faithfulness, gratitude, and an overflowing love for God.
Titus 1:5
“The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.”
This verse demonstrates the importance of establishing leadership within the church. Church planting involves identifying and equipping qualified individuals to serve as elders and leaders in the new church, providing guidance, oversight, and pastoral care.
When planting churches, it is crucial to invest in raising up and developing leaders who will shepherd the flock, ensuring the long-term health and effectiveness of the church’s ministry.
2 Corinthians 8:1-2
“And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.”
This passage highlights the spirit of generosity displayed by the Macedonian churches in the midst of their trials and poverty. Church planting involves instilling a culture of generosity among believers, recognizing that God supplies all our needs and calling us to share our resources with the community of faith and those in need.
When establishing new churches, it is vital to cultivate a heart of generosity, both individually and corporately, enabling the church to impact the lives of others and advance the Kingdom of God.
Romans 10:14-15
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'”
This verse highlights the role of messengers in proclaiming the Gospel. Church planting involves sending out individuals or teams to preach Christ and share the good news with those who have not yet believed.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to prioritize evangelism and ensure that the message of salvation is proclaimed clearly and passionately, enabling those who are lost to hear, believe, and be saved.
Revelation 2:5
“Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.”
This verse serves as a reminder to the importance of staying faithful to our first love, Jesus Christ. Church planting involves preserving the fervor, passion, and obedience of the early days of our faith.
As we plant churches, we must continually challenge ourselves to abide in Christ, repenting of any areas of compromise or complacency, and remaining committed to the pursuit of holiness and obedience.
2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of passing on the teachings of the faith to future generations. Church planting involves equipping and training faithful believers to become teachers and mentors who can multiply discipleship efforts.
When planting churches, it is crucial to invest in the development of leaders who will continue the work of spreading the Gospel, ensuring a lasting impact on the community and the generations to come.
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
This verse highlights the identity and purpose of believers as a chosen and holy people. Church planting involves establishing communities of faith that reflect the beauty and transformative power of God’s salvation.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to remind ourselves and new believers of our privileged status in Christ, empowering us to declare His praises, share our testimonies, and lead others out of darkness into the wonderful light of His grace.
Acts 18:9-10
“One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: ‘Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.'”
This passage illustrates God’s assurance and encouragement to Paul in his ministry. Church planting involves stepping out in faith, relying on God’s protection, and His knowledge of those who will respond to the Gospel.
When planting churches, we must trust in God’s sovereignty and guidance, boldly proclaiming His word while having confidence that He will gather His people and protect us from harm.
Philippians 1:27
“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.”
This verse emphasizes the need for believers to live in a manner that reflects the Gospel. Church planting involves establishing communities of faith that demonstrate Christlikeness in their actions, unity, and love for one another.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to encourage a lifestyle consistent with the teachings of Christ, fostering unity and harmony among believers, and shining as a light in the world.
Acts 16:5
“So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.”
This verse reflects the positive outcomes of strengthening existing churches and planting new ones. Church planting involves creating environments where believers can grow in their faith and experience spiritual growth.
When establishing new churches, it is essential to prioritize discipleship, teaching, and providing opportunities for believers to deepen their relationship with God while inviting others to encounter Jesus.
Romans 15:20
“It has always been my ambition to preach the gospel where Christ was not known, so that I would not be building on someone else’s foundation.”
This verse reveals Paul’s passion and focus on reaching unreached people with the Gospel. Church planting involves targeting areas and communities where the name of Jesus is not yet known or established.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to have a missional mindset, intentionally seeking out those who have not yet heard the Good News and diligently working to establish a strong foundation of faith in their lives.
1 Thessalonians 1:8
“The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it.”
This verse highlights the impact of the Thessalonian believers’ testimony and the spread of the Gospel through their lives. Church planting involves being a vibrant witness for Christ in our communities and beyond.
When planting churches, it is crucial to prioritize living out our faith authentically, demonstrating the life-transforming power of the Gospel, and allowing the testimony of our lives to speak volumes about God’s grace.
1 Corinthians 14:26
“What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.”
This verse highlights the participatory nature of the early church gatherings. Church planting involves fostering an environment where every believer has the opportunity to contribute and share their spiritual gifts for the edification of the body.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to create spaces that encourage the active involvement of all believers, recognizing and nurturing their diverse talents and gifts to build up the church and glorify God.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
This verse speaks of God’s encouragement to Joshua as he prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. Church planting involves stepping out in faith, trusting in God’s presence and guidance every step of the way.
When planting churches, it is crucial to rely on the strength and courage that comes from knowing that God is with us, empowering us to overcome challenges, and fulfill His purposes in the establishment of His kingdom.
Matthew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of believers being a light to the world, glorifying God through their words and actions. Church planting involves establishing communities of faith that shine brightly in their respective contexts.
As we plant churches, it is crucial to encourage believers to live in such a way that others are drawn to Christ, creating a desire in them to know God personally and join in the fellowship of the local church.