Reflecting on our church planting conference

We just concluded our conference on church planting here in Mexico City. Our special speaker was Jonathan Blankenship, pastor of Laurel Baptist Church. We had been eagerly awaiting this time and were looking forward to see what the results of the conference would be.  I can't really describe the spirit that we enjoyed during our time together. However, I can say this. We planned a conference, but it ended up being a revival. As I reflect on the last few days, here are some takeaways from our time together with Pastor Blankenship.

The emphasis of the church must be prayer. The last sermon preached on Sunday night was an outstanding reminder directly from God's Word that His house must be called a house of prayer. The church was moved by this sermon, and the Holy Spirit worked intensely in our people's heart. Personally, I was convicted in the fact that as I spend much time in planning for our upcoming church plant, I don't spend enough time praying for the opening of His church. I am committing to spend time in prayer and experience God's presence and God's power in my life, family, and ministry.

The foundation of the church must be the Scriptures. In our baptist circles, no one would argue the authority of the Scriptures in the church. However, as we may believe that, many don't put it into practice.  On Sunday, pastor Blankenship gave an excellent session on Biblical preaching. Really, the issue is not whether expository preaching is the only way of preaching or not, the issue is that Biblical preaching is vitally necessary for the well-being of our souls and spiritual growth. I am committed to continue learning how to preach expositionally, accurately, and most importantly, biblically. 

The future of the church is based on our faith in God. Pastor Blankenship spoke on Israel crossing the Red Sea. Frankly, it was such an encouragement to me and our church family to be reminded that the future is bright, secure, safe, and successful as long as we keep on going forward by faith. His plan is best. His route is best. His design is best. Just march on and go forward. 

It was awesome to spend time with Jonathan Blankenship. The church was encouraged and challenged, and I am personally grateful for his support and friendship. We can't wait to have him back again in Mexico City. Once again, thank you so much for coming to Mexico!