Answered | Week 4 | Pastor Ben Pierce
Empowering Generations: The Vision for 2023 at Generation Church
In this inspiring message from Pastor Ben Pierce, we explore the remarkable achievements of Generation Church over the past year and the bold vision for the future. Join us as we reflect on the importance of every generation working together to make a meaningful impact in our community and beyond.
Welcome and Introduction
Welcome to Generation Church! We are thrilled to gather together as a community, celebrating the incredible work God has accomplished among us. Today, we’ll reflect on our journey, recognising the milestones we’ve achieved and the lives transformed through our collective efforts. It’s a time to honour our past and embrace the future with open hearts and minds.
As we embark on this new year, remember that every individual here plays a vital role in our mission. Whether you’ve been part of our family for years or are just joining us, your presence is valued. Together, we can continue to foster an environment where everyone can encounter the love of Jesus and discover their purpose.
Celebrating Last Year’s Achievements
Last year was nothing short of remarkable for Generation Church. We set ambitious goals, and through your dedication and generosity, we exceeded them in ways we could only imagine. With a target of raising £450,000, the community rallied and contributed over £513,000, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to our mission.
This financial support allowed us to expand our facilities, providing more space for worship and community engagement. We saw a significant increase in attendance, with a 35% growth rate, and 118 individuals gave their lives to Christ. Additionally, 74 people took the step of baptism, marking a profound commitment to their faith.
Our outreach efforts also flourished, with over 71,000 pounds of food distributed to those in need and 103 foster children receiving essential items during the holidays. These achievements reflect our collective heart for serving others and making a tangible impact in our community.
The Vision and Mission of Generation Church
The vision of Generation Church is simple yet powerful: we aim to empower every generation to find purpose through the message and cause of Jesus Christ. This mission fuels everything we do, from our worship services to our community outreach initiatives.
It’s essential to recognise that our church is not just for the younger generation; we embrace every age group. Wisdom from our older generations enriches our community, while the energy and passion of our youth invigorate our mission. Together, we can accomplish things that none of us could achieve alone.
Understanding the Church’s Strategy for 2023
As we look ahead to 2023, we have outlined a clear strategy consisting of seven key components, commonly referred to as the “Seven G’s.” These steps are designed to guide you on your journey to becoming a fully devoted follower of Jesus.
- God: Cultivate a personal relationship with God through prayer, scripture, and worship.
- Gather: Prioritise regular fellowship with other believers to strengthen your faith.
- Growth: Engage in spiritual growth opportunities, such as foundational and freedom groups.
- Gift: Identify and use your unique God-given gifts to serve others.
- Groups: Connect with community groups for support and encouragement in your faith journey.
- Give: Participate in the mission by financially supporting the church and its outreach efforts.
- Go: Share your faith and engage in outreach activities to impact those around you.
By committing to these steps, you will not only deepen your relationship with God but also contribute to the vibrant life of our church. We are excited about what God has in store for us this year, and we invite you to join us on this incredible journey.
The Story of Nehemiah: Making Your Mark
Nehemiah’s journey is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have when they respond to a divine call. He exemplified leadership and compassion, recognising the needs of his community and taking action to address them. Nehemiah’s story urges us to slow down and assess our surroundings, acknowledging the physical and spiritual needs around us.
In a world that often prioritises speed and efficiency, Nehemiah teaches us the importance of pausing to notice the cracks in our society. He saw the broken walls of Jerusalem not just as a physical barrier but as a representation of the spiritual state of his people. This awareness ignited a fire within him to rebuild, both physically and spiritually.
His ability to empathise with the struggles of his community led him to weep for their plight. This deep compassion is essential for anyone looking to make a mark in their community. As we reflect on our roles, let us ask ourselves: are we truly seeing the needs around us? Are we willing to invest our time and energy to meet those needs?
The Call to Action: Accepting the Challenge
Nehemiah’s story is not just one of recognition; it is also about action. After understanding the dire situation in Jerusalem, he accepted the challenge to rebuild the city. This moment of decision is crucial for us as well. God is calling each of us to step up and take action in our communities.
In 2023, we are presented with a unique opportunity. The pandemic has unveiled many needs within our communities, and now is the time to respond. Nehemiah did not shy away from the challenge; he boldly approached the king and requested the resources needed for the task ahead. Similarly, we must not hesitate to step forward, equipped with faith and determination.
Accepting the challenge means recognising that our contributions, no matter how small they may seem, can create significant change. Nehemiah was a cupbearer, a role that may not appear grand; yet, he leveraged his position to effect monumental change. Each of us has a unique role to play, and our willingness to act can lead to transformative outcomes.
Building Together: The Next 52 Days
The next 52 days present a crucial opportunity for us to come together as a church community. Just as Nehemiah completed the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls in 52 days, we too can achieve remarkable things in a short period when we unite our efforts.
This is not merely about physical restoration; it’s about creating an environment where spiritual growth can flourish. Every member of our congregation has gifts and talents that can contribute to this vision. Whether it’s serving in children’s ministry, greeting newcomers, or helping with outreach, your involvement is vital.
Imagine the impact we could make if we all engaged fully in our roles. Picture a vibrant community where no one is overlooked, and every individual feels valued and welcomed. As we embark on this journey, let us commit to reaching out, lifting each other up, and building strong foundations for future generations.
Over the next 52 days, let’s strive to fill the gaps that currently exist in our ministry. Every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to the greater vision God has for us. Together, we can create an atmosphere that not only meets the needs of our church family but also reaches out to those in our community who are searching for hope and belonging.
As we step forward, let us remember Nehemiah’s story as a call to action. Let us be the hands and feet of Jesus, working diligently to rebuild the walls of our community and inviting others to join us on this incredible journey. Together, we can make a mark that will be remembered for generations to come.