For 2,000 years, one organization, inspired by God, has sought to bring about God’s will in a sinful world. This work, called the church, is not our work; it is the work of Jesus.
Fifty years ago today, Jesus began a fresh work in Bella Vista, Arkansas. What was planted here wasn’t anything new, and it wasn’t the first. It hasn’t been the last, either. But it has been a continuation of what Jesus declared.
“I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it.” Matthew 16:18B
“I will build.” Jesus doesn’t say, “You will build my church.” He says, “I will build my church.” This tells us some key facts.
The size and structure of the church are subject to change at any time. When something is being built, as long as the project is underway, it will continue to grow and take shape.
Here’s the incredible truth about that project called the church: God has used faithful pastors, families, volunteers, and generous people to build what we experience today. Every generation has carried responsibilities that made the next generation possible. We get to enjoy today because people were faithful yesterday.
We honor those who came before us by giving glory to the one who called them, equipped them, and built through them.
BV Assembly of God Story
In November 1976, ten Christians met in the home of Ray and Erma Friend. They started building their first building in May 1979, and the first service was held on December 16, 1979.
The building was destroyed by fire in 1985, and the congregation met at St. Bernard Church. The current building opened on September 14, 1986.
While we have seen many transformations, one of my favorite stories I’ve read about happened in 2006, when we had to cut down several large trees to expand the parking lot. Coming under fire from naysayers in the community, Pastor Jonathan declared, “We love souls more than trees.”
This church hasn’t been a work of man, but a work of God! And we still love souls more than trees.
Here’s another testament to Jesus’ work among us: since 1976, we’ve given $2,914,443. This year, we have already crossed over $3 million in total missions giving! Next week, we are receiving a legacy offering to continue our missions work with our partner, Project Rescue.
Our work belongs to Jesus, and as he shapes that work…
“My church.” There is something deeply significant about Jesus calling it “my church.” Do you have that feeling about something in your life? It’s the thing you take complete responsibility for. It’s the thing you’ll pay any cost for, because it doesn’t just represent a thing; it is the thing!
This church, our church, and every church that ever has been or will be does not belong to a pastor, the people, the members, or any particular generation. It belongs to Jesus.
This reality brings both identity and purpose. Our unity is in the fact that we are gathered for Jesus. Our identity is in the truth that we are a people for Jesus. Our mission exists to continue the work of Jesus.
In a world that offers seemingly unlimited possibilities, we choose only one possibility. We choose to focus on Jesus and the church he calls his own.
“All the powers of Hell will not conquer it.” Many translations say, “the gates of hell.” In ancient times, every plan devised within a city had to take shape as it walked out of the city gates. That is to say, every plan made in hell will not stop Jesus’ church.
The truth that the powers of hell will not conquer the church allows us room to breathe when we realize that nothing in the world is our source. Jesus is our source and our security.
Our hope isn’t in a strong economy. We’re glad when we have one, but that’s not our source of security. Our future is not dependent on a few people being heroes and doing it all. Our confidence is in the risen Christ, who is building his church.