When we moved to Athens our heart's passion was to start a church which would help spiritual seekers find the Truth. The goal was not to start a church that would only draw people from other churches. Our goal was not to reach discontent churched people, however this is what often happens with a new church. People are often very willing to leave their current church to try something new. This has more to do with the dysfunctional nature of churches than anything else.
We're now almost 2 years into this journey and I think we still have a long ways to go when it comes to reaching unchurched people. God has been very gracious to us thus far - we have grown numerically and financially. We have some amazing people who attend Athens Church and I'm honored to serve with them. I just know we have so much more potential in the arena of creating an environment for people who don't yet know Jesus. There is such a great need in this city. There are thousands and thousands of people who don't know that God really loves them and wants a wonderful life for them.
I'm currently reading a book by John Burke called "No Perfect People Allowed." It's a compilation of stories of what God is doing in their church (Gateway Community Church) in Austin, TX. The title of this blog is a link to this book on Amazon. So far, I think this book is INCREDIBLE! I've been so encouraged by what God is doing among this courageous group of people. It's given me even more hope and vision to create an environment for the unchurched.
If you're looking for a way to pray for me and/or Athens Church please pray that we will create the optimal environment for those who are seeking the Truth to find Him.
