In a greater sense, the whole Old Testament period was preparation for the church. But, lest we fill too large a volume, let’s begin by exploring the disciple-training ministry of Jesus.
The Gospels detail about three and a half years of preparation for the new church with the training of its foundational leaders. However, preparation for that preparation was also carried out by John the Baptist.
When beginning a new church, often there will be someone who prepares the way, who does not continue with the new church, as John the Baptist prepared for Jesus, but died too soon. The message that John brought is also very familiar.
“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.’” (Matthew 3:2-3 ESV)
Fasting
Fasting is always a good preparation for a new church. We are not Jesus and nobody should fast as long as He did barring a miracle, but most healthy people can easily fast without solid food a day or two.
“After Jesus had gone without eating for forty days and nights, he was very hungry.” (Matthew 4:2 CEV)
Notice that it does not say Jesus was thirsty, so it is possible that He drank at least water. I dream of a church built with prayer and fasting.
Repentance
What kind of message begins to build a church? We don’t need to be overly stressed or concerned about reinventing the wheel. The message that Jesus preached is the best.
“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17 KJV)
Repentance literally means to have a change of heart or mind, but it must also have fruits, meaning a turning FROM sin and TO God. It’s a simple message, but powerful. I dream of a church that actually repents of a thousand do’s and don’ts, of doctrinal idols, that overshadow and bury the teachings of Jesus.
Choosing Leaders
Jesus did not ask for volunteers nor did He take a congregational vote, when He chose His disciples. We may not have the same opportunity or marvelous response that Jesus had when He said, Come follow me. I doubt that many modern missionaries and church planters will simply rock up and find the same zeal, that people immediately drop tools and follow them. However, some do prioritize church over worldly pursuits, indicating that they may be ready to begin discipleship training. It may be a pipe dream, but I do dream of a church where its leaders are even just half as dedicated as those first disciples.
The entire sermon on the mount is in one way shape or form relevant to beginning a new church, yet here are a few points that stand out as directly applicable.
Who are We Serving
We often think of serving a local church and somewhere along the line money is needed for something, yet we must always remember that money is just a tool; it is God whom we serve.
“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.” (Matthew 6:24 NASB)
