...it will grow and thrive.  Marylin and I had the opportunity to participate in the planting of our new sister church, The Orchard Fellowship this past weekend.  It was a glorious day with 319 in attendance and 6 people gave their hearts to Christ.  I know God is going to bless Sam & Ruthie, their staff, and all of their great supporters as they lead with a heart after Christ.

When God Builds a Church it will accomplish what God sent it to do.
That is the title of a book given to me by a long time friend and supporter in ministry when we planted TVCC in August of 2000.  It is the story of Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, KY and is one of the foundation stones God used in my life as a church planter.  Bob Russell, author and pastor of this thriving, bustling church for more than thirty-four years, outlines ten essential principles that must be present in any church God blesses. The ten principles are:

• Principle 1: Truth
  Proclaim God's Word as Truth and Apply It to People's Lives
• Principle 2: Worship
  Worship God Every Week in Spirit and Truth
• Principle 3: Leadership
  Develop Christ-Centered Leaders Who Lead by Example
• Principle 4: Excellence
  Do Your Best in Every Area of Service
• Principle 5: Faith
  Be Willing To Step Out with a Bold Faith and Take Risks
• Principle 6: Harmony
  Maintain a Spirit of Harmony
• Principle 7: Participation
  Expect the Congregation to Participate in Every Ministry
• Principle 8: Fellowship
  Continually Practice Agape Love for One Another
• Principle 9: Stewardship
  Give Generously of God's Resources as a Church and as Individuals
• Principle 10: Evangelism
  Commit Enthusiastically to Evangelism as Your Primary Mission

These ten principles are found in TVCC and are already present in the leadership of The Orchard Fellowship.  What is in the heart of the leader becomes the DNA of the church.  When a leader follows and loves God, embracing these ten principles, their vision will ultimately filter into those who follow.  Thank you TVCC, for following God's Biblical imperative for churches to plant churches.  You're the greatest!

This weekend I will continue our series FULLY ENGAGED - The Power of a Committed Life.  Part 2 is Fully Engaged in My Church.  What does it mean to be a growing, loving, serving, giving worshiper of God?  We'll teach you how to prioritize your life so that as you FULLY ENGAGE, the power of Christ will be evident in you.  Invite your friends, co-workers, neighbors - even complete strangers! - as we continue in this great series this weekend.

See you at the FULLY ENGAGED place!

Pastor Steve