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Purpose
The Central District works to accomplish the purpose of the Evangelical Free Church of America, which is to “multiply healthy churches that multiply healthy churches.” The Church Planting Missionary (CPM) is committed to multiplying churches for the sake of Christ's Kingdom here on earth and he is committed to establishing EFCA churches.
The individuals and groups that we work with must understand the goal of healthy churches, the commitment to planting EFCA churches, and the benefits and responsibilities of a relationship with the Central District. EFCA churches connect at the district level for greater ministry effectiveness and accountability.
The ability to give autonomy to the church that will result in a healthy interdependence is the desire of the CPM.
What makes a church healthy?
We do not desire to just start more churches. We desire to start healthy churches. This goal guides each church as they determine their basic functions.
The Central District church planting strategy is not limited to one particular model that describes the functions of a healthy church. At a minimum, the church model must include the functions of evangelism and edification. Church plants may choose or develop models that include additional functions of exaltation, education, encouragement, equipping, fellowship, and so forth.
Form follows function. When the church has determined what functions it will provide, the forms of worship and other ministries are developed to accomplish those functions. For example, if one of the functions determined to be necessary for a healthy church is fellowship, the church will develop ministries that provide opportunities for fellowship.
Leadership is also a key component of health. Godly, wise, and proactive leadership and leadership structures need to be in place when the planter concludes his involvement with a new church. The first pastor must be a good fit with the functions of the church, the makeup of people in the congregation and the target area for ministry.
The healthy church must ultimately be accountable to the plans and purposes of the Lord of the Church, Jesus Christ. The healthy church congregation must demonstrate unity, spiritual growth, physical growth, and support of the leadership.
For more information:
“Ten Leading Indicators of a Healthy Church”
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