Intro
At Send Network, our goal is to see churches planting churches everywhere for everyone—and you have a part to play in that work! As we join God’s kingdom work, nine essential church planting qualities provide the foundation for all of our process in preparing, assessing, caring for and equipping planters
The Heart
Your chief identity isn’t church planter or pastor but disciple of Christ and child of God. It is a “safeguard for you” (Philippians 3:1) to be trained and reminded about holiness, humility, spiritual disciplines, and your walk with Christ.
Relationships
Ministry happens in Christian community. Planters, if married, must have a healthy home. In relationships, planters must learn how to collaborate with other churches and ministries, cultivate an honest and transparent community with brothers and sisters in Christ, and navigate conflict in a Christ-honoring way.
Calling
We want to make sure you are confident in your calling to serve in church planting. Starting a new church from the ground up is one of the most challenging tasks in ministry. Confidence in God’s call on your life is crucial to endure the difficult seasons.
Theology
Planters need to be theologically grounded and gospel-centered. Since you will be a public theologian in your community, you better know your Bible and doctrine. We want planters to be humble teachers and defenders of sound doctrine.
Mission
Church planting is not service starting. We want you to “do the work of an evangelist” (2 Timothy 4:5) and to disciple and pastor “God’s flock” (1 Peter 5:2). Send Network Training prepares planters to engage their city with the gospel, make disciples, and plant churches.
Teaching
Pastors must be able to teach (1 Timothy 3:2). No matter the setting or audience, planters must be skilled in explaining and applying the Scriptures in light of the person and work of Christ. Planters must faithfully stand on God’s Word, no matter what’s going on in the surrounding culture.
The Church
Planters must know what they are planting. By the end of Send Network Training, you should understand essential matters of ecclesiology, leadership, and pastoral care. Jesus loves the church. Every planter must take his cues from Jesus.
The Nations
What is your vision for your church plant to engage the nations with the gospel? Planters who seek first the kingdom of God will pursue global partnerships. Don’t lose the forest (the nations) for the trees (the neighborhood).
Practical Leadership
Planters need to be faithful and effective. Planters are pastors, preachers, counselors, evangelists, fundraisers, and leaders. You have to lead the team, lead services, lead meetings, and lead volunteers. You need the toolbox of wise and practical leadership to be a faithful and effective planter.
Want more help to get started?
Visit NewChurches.com for free church planting resources from experts across North America.
Want more help to get started?
Visit NewChurches.com for free church planting resources from experts across North America.