Why Don't More Churches...

Why don't more churches work together? Why are there such territorial lines that are drawn between churches? I fully support the idea that people should be connected to and invested in one local church instead of bouncing around from church to church, but why don't we see more churches intentionally supporting one another in various ways?

One thing I love about church planting, especially here in Knoxville, is that most of the church planters I know don't have territorial boundaries. They aren't concerned with "losing their members" to another church. They ultimately understand that each church (little c) is essentially part of the one Church (big C).

We experienced this perspective firsthand yesterday. OneLife Church, which meets in Powell, has played a big part in The Overflow Church being able to get started. I'm so thankful for the support, wisdom, and generosity that Pastor Rodney, the leadership, and members of OneLife have shown to our church. Yesterday was just another example of their commitment to the Church. They sent about 25 volunteers to handle our kids ministry and setup/tear down so that our volunteers could have a morning of rest and be freed up to worship and celebrate our one-year anniversary. This was such a blessing to us.

Here's the difference... If Pastor Rodney was concerned about "losing his members," this would've never happened. OneLife Church understands what God has called them to do, and they know they're a part of something so much bigger than themselves.

So, "Thank You" OneLife Church for your continued support. For everyone else who reads this, please know that you should find a church, get involved, and support what that church does. However, I hope you will make your first commitment to Christ and His Church and realize that the church where you serve, worship, and minister is not the end goal! The end goal is and always has been Jesus, so let's be sure we're all striving to advance and build His Kingdom rather than our own!