The Global Vision For Church Planting

At [Multiply], we believe that church planting is one of the most effective ways to fulfill this mission. By multiplying churches, we create spaces where new worshipers can emerge, communities can be transformed, and the gospel can spread. Our global work is driven by the belief that God desires to bring joy-filled worshipers from every nation into His kingdom.

Our vision goes beyond simply establishing new churches. It’s about raising up local leaders who understand the unique needs of their communities. These leaders become catalysts for change, leading movements that go far beyond the initial church plant. They embody the call to make disciples of all nations, as Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19-20:

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

As we journey through what it looks like to spread the gospel worldwide, we invite you to walk with us, learn more about our global mission, and discover how you can play a part in it. Together, let’s work towards making His glory known throughout the earth, fulfilling God’s desire to bring the gospel to places where it has yet to be spread.

The mission: To bring worship worldwide

God’s mission to spread His glory across the nations is at the heart of everything we do. From the beginning, God’s purpose has been clear: He desires worshipers from every tribe, tongue, and nation. This vision shapes our work and drives our efforts to plant churches in communities worldwide.

In Genesis 12:1-3, God called Abraham to go and be a blessing to all nations. This foundational call reveals God’s commitment to creating a community of people dedicated to knowing and worshiping Him. Through Abraham, God declared His intention to reach the nations, and that same calling extends to us today. As followers of Christ, we are invited to share the message of Jesus with others and participate in God’s mission to make His glory known across the earth.

Theologian John Piper has said that “missions exist because worship does not.” His words are a reminder to us at [Multiply] that we are called to bring the gospel . This is the purpose of church planting: creating communities where new worshipers of Jesus can emerge, thrive, and multiply. By planting churches in regions like Rwanda, South Asia, and Mexico, we seek to bring the hope of the gospel to places that need it most. Every new church planted becomes a space for worship, discipleship, and transformation.

The Weight of Weariness: The Inside

At [Multiply], we aim to cultivate sustainable movements that multiply leaders, disciples, and churches. We believe that the power of the gospel has the potential to transform not just individuals but entire communities. Our approach to church planting includes raising up local leaders who understand the cultural context of their communities, enabling these movements to grow in a way that resonates deeply within their unique settings. We have church leaders working tirelessly to bring hope to communities through discipleship. Our leaders face unique cultural and social challenges as they share the gospel, but we are seeing families and communities being reached with practical support and the love of Christ. Each region reflects the hear of God for the nations and the way that He uses the local church to bring lasting change.

We invite you to join us in praying for our church planting partners and the communities they serve. We believe that every follower of Christ has a role to play in fulfilling the Great Commission. Whether through prayer, financial support, or volunteering, your participation makes a difference in advancing God’s kingdom. Together, let’s answer the call to bring people into the joyous purpose for which they were created. Join us as we work to make God’s glory known among the nations and build communities that worship God!

— The [multiply] team

I’m Working a Double Shift Pt. 1

Years ago, I worked as a server at TGIFriday’s and, if I’m being honest, that still may be my most favorite job of all time (currently in my call and purpose now folks. We can relax :-D). In the job title as you see, it taught me how to serve and I did that very well. The rest of the job was hard work, but it was fun, I made some lifelong friends out of some of the people I served, and most importantly it showed me the importance of serving others. For this, I am forever grateful. What I was not grateful for, however, was any time I had to work a “swing shift” or a double shift. They were long and gruesome so I happily avoided them at all costs. But there were other special shifts I wanted to work called to-go shifts. This is where you worked a normal number of tables during a regular shift, about three or four, and I would also take any to-go orders as well. It was the “easiest” way to get additional money for one shift. Sometimes it was kinda slow, maybe one to-go along with my tables. And sometimes…no. Maybe 14 to-gos with my tables. These nights were never fun. These nights felt like I was working a double shift all at once.

I appreciate these experiences now. They’ve prepared me for handling the high yield situations of life, and they’ve helped me to identify a very crucial point believers need to understand about the life we live and the opposition we face from the enemy and just from life “lif’in.” And when I look at Nehemiah chapter four, I see the perfect scenario in which all of this plays out.

Facing Resistance: The Outside

In life, any work with great purpose is bound to encounter opposition. Nehemiah’s story of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem exemplifies this truth. His people faced mockery, threats, and disbelief on the outside from their enemies, Sanballat and Tobiah. Both of them were excluded from being able to rebuild the wall and didn’t take that well. When they found out it was Neh (as I will now affectionately call him) who was gifted the assignment that didn’t sit well with them and they made sure to make it known how they felt. They tried to intimidate Neh and his people, as well as schmooze those in power to be able weasel their way into positions where they could usurp the power and control in the situation.

The Weight of Weariness: The Inside

If that wasn’t enough…it’s one thing to have to deal with an opponent on the outside. But then there’s the people. As they’re working on the wall, they grow weary. Fatigue settled in, and doubt began to creep among them. They voiced concerns that the task was too big, the rubble too much to handle. The fear of outside attack became a crippling element for them, hindering their ability to focus on what needed to be done to complete the wall. This feeling of exhaustion is something we all know too well—whether we’re pursuing a dream, serving our community, or simply trying to maintain faith through personal struggles. Outside influences are the worst, but I’m convinced that nothing is worst that our own voices in our head, staying with us constantly. When they encourage it’s empowering! When they discourage they are our worst enemy. Yet, Nehemiah teaches us to keep our eyes on the purpose behind the work. Even when we feel overwhelmed by the “rubble” of life, the key is to press forward with faith. God does not call us to tasks we cannot complete. When we are tired, He provides strength, and when we are uncertain, He offers clarity. We don’t need certainty when we have confidence in the abilities He gives us.

Armed for the Fight

To deal with the constant threats, Nehemiah made sure that half of his workers were always prepared to defend while the others continued to build. Each person had a sword by their side, ready to fight off any attack. This is an important lesson for us today. We are called to build something meaningful—whether it’s relationships, ministries, or careers—but we must be prepared for opposition, both external and internal. Being armed for the fight doesn’t just mean physical preparation; it means spiritual readiness. It involves prayer, wisdom, and a deep trust in God’s protection. By staying vigilant and relying on God, we can overcome whatever seeks to disrupt our progress.

Finishing Strong

What stands out most in Nehemiah’s story is that despite the many setbacks and obstacles, the people completed the wall, and in spite of the fears of the people they were able to do so in less time and with HALF the men v. 16. They worked from sunrise to sunset, day after day, refusing to give in to fear or discouragement. This reminds us that finishing strong is often less about skill and more about perseverance. When opposition grows fierce, when doubt takes root, and when exhaustion looms, we must remember the promise Nehemiah held onto: God fights for us. And when we continue the work with that assurance, we will find that what once seemed impossible can be finished in less time than we ever imagined.

God equips His people to not only start the work but to finish it well. When you’re building something of worth, remember that the opposition you face is just a reminder that the work matters. With God’s help, you will overcome it and see the completion of what He has called you to do.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

Partnerships

Because Multiply is a resource or accelerator organization, most of the work we do is through partnering. We partner with indigenous church leaders in areas the world-over and with individuals and churches who have a heart for supporting those indigenous churches.

But at Multiply, we don’t believe in a fundamental division between our donors and the indigenous church leaders we partner with around the world. While we may at different times play different roles, we are all a part of one vision and one calling and working towards one goal together. This idea is why we refer to ourselves as a family instead of a network or affiliation. Ultimately, we all desire to see the name of Jesus glorified in every corner of the world.

While many international missions organizations worry about the potential messiness that can occur when donors are directly connected with resource recipients, we are fighting for deep connection between family of church congregants and leaders. One reason for this is because our model encourages everyone to be on a pathway to being a mature believer. Our resources for helping people grow in their faith and become better followers, leaders, and church multipliers are freely available to everyone in local and international churches. If you are a donor to Multiply you likely care enough about the Kingdom of God to also want to work on your spiritual life. What’s more is that the Multiply programs don’t just lead donors to be followers, leaders, and an active part of growing churches but also expect the family churches to move from under-resourced churches to donors themselves. To build bridges between Mission Partners and Resource Partners, Multiply actively works to host events and trips that bring the two together. We believe that all of our partners can grow from interactions with one-another, especially our international partners. This will, of course, result in even more new churches reaching the lost!

All these things being true, it can be helpful to have consistent language for identifying who is playing what role and any particular time. The following language helps us to do just that.

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Mission Partners

Mission Partners are members of the Family of Churches who are currently receiving help from Multiply. They are under-resourced. These are churches or organizations that are being helped with the funds given by our generous donors. At any time it may be a rural church in Africa or a Norfolk resident in the beginning stages of their church plant. Whatever stage they may be in, these Mission Partners are on the receiving end. They are busy building capacities by implementing the 3F System so that they can grow and multiply to a self-sustaining and giving capacity. Mission Partners are developed in or adopted into the Family of Churches through assessment, action plans, and applying those plans to their context.

Assess

Before being adopted into the family of churches and becoming a Mission Partner, planters and pastors are vetted extensively. Since Multiply is responsible for stewarding the funds donated from our Resource Partners we must ensure that they are the right fit for our shared goals. To this end, each potential family member is assessed in three categories: Followership, Leadership, and Multiplication. 

From the beginning of the growth process, we want to know that what is being multiplied is rooted in healthy followership of Jesus. Applicants will be assessed on their knowledge, understanding, and experience in following and leading others to follow Christ. We want to know that multipliers have a system for developing followers and that they themselves are healthy followers. 

Similarly, the leadership assessment ensures the planter or pastor candidate has a process in place for developing leaders. If they do not, [Multiply] will give access to our development pathway, designed to move leaders from leading self, to leading others, leading leaders, and leading organizations. Developing leaders who follow Jesus well and know how to develop new leaders sets the stage for multiplying followers, leaders, and churches. 

The multiplication assessment allows candidates and [Multiply] staff to align on their plans to multiply. Assessment for multiplication helps identify the needs of leaders and churches who are ready to plant new churches or send out leaders to a new context to shepherd and develop new followers and leaders. Leaders who are identified through assessment as “multipliers” not only have a plan in place for developing interns, residents, and planters/pastors, but they may also be catalysts for new [Multiply] hubs and network expansion.

Action

After assessment in Followership, Leadership, and Multiplication, candidates are given an action plan tailored to their context in each category. This action plan will identify areas of growth where the candidate needs improvement as a follower, leader, or multiplier. The action plan may have resources to study, comprehension exams to complete or simple alignment tools to help ensure an ongoing healthy partnership. Each partner who is ready to work with [Multiply] will be assigned a coach who will walk with them through the application of their action plan. 

Application

The application plan for each follower, leader, or church will vary by context. Simple Churches are largely concentrated in an international setting and will apply the action plan to their environments based on level of knowledge, understanding, and experience appropriate to their context. Like the other church models, Dura Churches will apply their action plan to develop multipliers through coaching and implementation strategies unique to [Multiply]. Prevailing model churches will be able to leverage their action plans to help their people multiply followers, leaders, and churches. Beginning with followership, our leaders develop into multipliers in any context.

Resource Partners

Resource Partners are valued members of the Multiply Family of Churches that love the Church and the mission of God and want to financially support gospel multiplication with followers, leaders, and churches throughout the nations. Resources can be gifted in a variety of ways: cash, stocks, cryptocurrency, etc. as well as in-kind through donations of cars, boats, and real estate. Planned giving options will be available in the future. Resource Partners can be individuals, churches, or organizations such as charitable foundations. Multiply and all of its work is supported 100% by donations.

These donations typically come in two (2) forms. The first is an individual donor. These are the people, mostly congregants in Family Churches, who give over and above their local church tithing to support the work of multiplying followers, leaders, and churches. The second is Family Church Donors. These are churches that have moved past the under-resourced designation. Each year we ask these churches to make a pledge to cover the full cost of the services that Multiply Central provides to them. They donate the money to Multiply in these amounts. A church that can’t cover their Ministry Capacity pledge is considered under-resourced and will be supported until such time that they become a Resource Partner themselves.   

Multiply has two programs for our resource partners.

The first is called The Harvest. The Harvest is Multiply’s global, recurring, giving community. It is composed of generous, passionate, and determined people from all around the world. Members of this community make weekly, monthly, quarterly or yearly commitments to Multiply to be used as needed by the organization. These donations are absolutely crucial to the success of Multiply because they allow us to find and execute on new opportunities for church multiplication. They also give Multiply the stability to do strategic planning for vision execution on a yearly basis.

The Harvest is based on the Gospel of Matthew 9:35-38: 

35 And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. 36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; 38 therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

There is an incredible need for help from Multiply in the Global Church. The Lord has opened up tremendous opportunities and gifted us with the vision and tools to meet this incredible need. We see Multiply Harvesters as the people Jesus is speaking about in Matthew 9. They see the opportunity, that the harvest is ready and plentiful and they are determined to empower those who are reaping it for the Lord.     

Those who join The Harvest get a free T-shirt made especially for Harvest Members. They also receive regular newsletters updating them on how their funds are being used. There is no limit on how much or how little one can give through The Harvest. Every dollar is appreciated, significant, and impactful.

The second program is called Progress Giving. Progress Giving is when donated funds are allocated for specific followers, leaders, or churches on the 3F pathway. At the Resource Partner’s request, their gift will be used to multiply ongoing or future initiatives. Typically, this means a specific initiative within a church, in a specific location that is actively executing the 3F System. Resource Partners who give in this way receive several updates on the specific pathway to which they allocated funds. These updates will allow Resource Partners to follow along the pathway with the Mission Partner as they build a culture of followership, develop those followers into leaders and help those leaders multiply churches!  Project Giving is available to anyone who gives at least $500 in a single gift.  

Whether you’re a Mission Partner seeking to transform a church into all God intended it to be or you’re a Resource Partner denying yourself a dinner out one time a month to make room in your budget to be a member of The Harvest, we want you to know that you’re part of the family and together we can multiply! 

— the [multiply] team

Training: Our 3F System

INTRODUCTION

If in one sense, Ministry Capacity and centralized staff and services represents the backbone of Multiply, then Mission Capacity and the 3F Training System is the heart of the Multiply organization.

The 3F System (3FS) is a time-tested, proven approach. While it draws on many different training tools from around the world, the Multiply 3F Training System is totally unique to Multiply, Inc. 

We believe that the vision for the system was providentially developed so we could help under-resourced churches in a global context.

What is the 3F System? 

The 3F System is a collection of procedures, principles, and content that when implemented into a church or church plant results in healthy multiplication. The 3F System has three (3) main pathways: Followership, Leadership, and Multiplication. It derives its name from the three identifiers it reinforces inside of a church culture: Family, Followers, and Fields. Everything is done in the context of the Global Family of Churches. Support in all forms is showered on those churches working through the 3F process to guard from all forms of attack: physical, financial, and spiritual. While followership is a distinct phase of the 3F process it is foundational and reinforced throughout the entire process. We believe healthy followers of Jesus are both the start and end result of new or revitalized churches. It’s important to keep in mind that the common DNA of the Global Family of Churches is disciple-making that leads to multiplication. We all want to enter new fields. It is a wonderful thing for a local church to be vibrant and thriving and we are all for it! For us, at Multiply, and those that join us, this means that churches are reaching into new fields by the end of the process.

Followership

The first pathway of the 3F System is Followership. Mission Capacity partnership must start here. Why? Because if a church does not have a healthy culture of followership development, then the healthy foundation needed for multiplication has not been formed. Before we can worry about equipping leaders or multiplying churches we must make sure that the great commission is being fulfilled through the local church in a biblical way. So, the first phase of the 3F system helps everyone in the congregation (laity and leadership both) learn to be great followers of Jesus with their local leadership. Generally, great followers show deference for leadership, zeal or excitement, and mission ownership.

Leadership

The second pathway of the 3F System is Leadership. As the name suggests this phase is all about nurturing and developing leadership giftings inside the culture of followership that is already thriving. With potential leaders identified, the 3F System empowers local churches to nurture these leaders into volunteers, program leaders, teachers, deacons, elders, pastors, planters, and missionaries. While we use specific language to describe leaders in a ministry context, there is freedom to contextualize this language for each church. Our tools and resources are available to 3F partners and we consult with each one to ensure a healthy customized installation of the system.

Multiplication

When healthy followership and leadership have been cultivated in the local church, a previously under-resourced church now has a thriving congregation of equipped followers and empowered leaders. The leaders have been nurtured from within the community with a foundation of followership to produce new healthy leaders prepared to multiply new churches. Like the rest of the 3F pathways, this multiplication doesn’t happen overnight. It is crucial at the point of sending that great care is taken to do it well. For leaders who have been integral to the local community preparing to multiply, systems in that sending context must produce health, so that which is multiplied is also healthy. Head, heart, and hands assessments of leaders, pastors, and planters will allow us to ensure that multipliers are healthy followers of Jesus.

Conclusion

Different churches can successfully work through the 3F System at different speeds but on average it takes 2 years to grow from follower to leader to multiplier in the Dura Church model. Prevailing model churches can take even more time to help followers grow through the process. If it sounds like this is a significant undertaking for an under-resourced local church that’s because it is! But remember two things: 1) the 3F Training System (Mission Capacity) is just one-half of the overall partnership that a local church has with Multiply. The second half, Ministry Capacity, is concurrently developed to create the room for the 3F System to be the focus of development for the church at the appropriate time. 2) The 3F Training System comes in multiple forms that adapt to the church-model being employed at the local level whether it’s a prevailing model church or dura church.

— the [multiply] team

How We Help

HOW DOES [MULTIPLY] WORK TO BEST SUPPORT YOU?

The mission of the [Multiply] Family of Churches is to equip the churches in the family to multiply followers, leaders and churches. The way [Multiply] equips the churches is by building their capacity for mission and ministry. By “capacity building” we mean assisting in such a way that the church has the ability to “produce” healthier ministry and mission in their context. 

Each church model has varying levels of need. Some prevailing model churches have larger administrative needs, like financial, human resource, media, marketing, and legal services. [Multiply] assisting with these needs increases a church’s capacity to do ministry. When these churches need assistance in the areas of follower/leader development, internship/residency programs, international missions, church planting processes, and coaching, [Multiply] helps them increase capacity for mission.

Simple and Dura model churches typically have less administrative needs, but may require assistance with legal processes, marketing, and database management to organize people within the church. This increases their ministry capacity. In order to increase their mission capacity, simple churches within the [Multiply] family benefit from followership resources and training to multiply leaders and new churches.

We help partners become multipliers. Our partners are church planters, established churches, and donors who have a passion for growth and development. 

• Our resource partners (donors) love the church and the mission of God and want to fund gospel multiplication in followers, leaders, and churches throughout the nations. 

• Our mission partners are pastors and planters are the workers in the field multiplying followers, leaders, and churches.

You can be a multiplier by donating to, or leveraging our capacity building system.

— the [multiply] team

Our Values & Discintives

What kind of organization is multiply ?

Christian nonprofits are typically divided into two categories. Implementers and Accelerators.

Implementers are the organizations that are directly involved in planting, revitalizing, and multiplying churches. Examples of these organizations are local churches and missionary groups. 

Accelerators are organizations that are involved in resourcing church multiplication through prayer, training, tools, community development, research, finances, marketing, networking, and other means. Examples of these organizations include: church planting networks, charitable foundations, and national alliances. Accelerators help Implementers.

In this scheme, Multiply would best fit into the category of Accelerators. Our mandate is to equip - or resource - churches with the systems and training they need to become multipliers. We don’t do any of the mission work ourselves. We help followers of Jesus in the church, church leaders, and church plants do mission work. 

While Multiply best fits into the category of Accelerator, it should be noted that we see Multiply as a major evolution from what an accelerator or resource organization has been in the past. Accelerators typically only offer hands off help. They do things like hold events, coach, train, or send money but don’t jump into the fray with the ministry they are helping. Multiply goes a step further. 

We get deeply involved in three ways: Family, Capacity, and Systems. These are what we value and distinguish us from other resource organizations.

family

Multiply breaks from typical accelerators by partnering as a family. Churches inside church planting networks or missionary groups typically have loose affiliation with one another. At Multiply we insist on knowing and caring for one-another in a familial way. If one of us suffers we all suffer. If one of us succeeds we all succeed. We are truly in this together. This is true of how our Resource Partners are treated as well. Anyone who donates to Multiply is part of the family and deserves the transparency, information, and care due them.

capacity

Multiply’s devotion to their local church partners is shown in its offering of capacity services. This offering makes Multiply a truly unique organization. As a ministry built by experienced missiologists and pastors we understand the limitations of typical church leaders. For a church to become a  multiplying entity they must grow in capacity. Put simply, if church leaders are spending all of their time doing graphic design work, fighting legal battles, or fighting through bookkeeping frustrations they will never find the time and space to multiply followers, leaders, and churches. To create this capacity, Multiply offers a suite of services to under-resourced churches so they can finally focus on the activities that God has called them to.

Systems

Multiply is an organization that developed from the mission field. It was started by pastors and missiologists who could see how the world was changing and how local churches needed help to face those changes. By overcoming their own challenges in multiplying followers, disciples, and churches, these church leaders developed a system that could help others do the same. Because of this, Multiply has developed a hands-on approach that is unparalleled in the ministry world. Unlike many parachurch ministries that only provide training, coaching, or a curriculum, Multiply supplies an entire system for multiplication along with the corresponding assessment of the partner, action plans to be implemented, and the ensuing application and accountability for working the system.  

What MULTIPLY Is Not

Multiply is not a denomination. We do not exercise authority over any church. Our role is simply to help and resource local churches.

Multiply is not a charitable foundation. Like any organization, Multiply uses funds to help accomplish its mission. Sometimes, funds are even shared with member churches. However, raising and sharing funds is not Mutliply’s mandate. Any funds shared are only for family members and only to be used in the furthering of the Multiply mission and vision.

Multiply is not a church. Multiply facilitates interaction between churches but is not a church itself. All of the work that Multiply does is to assist local churches.

— the [multiply] team

Our Mission

What is the multiply mission?

At Multiply, we are on a mission to equip our family of churches to multiply followers, leaders and churches!

It is our sincere hope that one day we will live in a world where every church is equipped to grow and multiply. But, of course, that is not the case today. 

Very few churches will multiply their efforts to reach new people and areas. So it’s no wonder…

• Few churches today have trained leadership or a way of developing new leaders to start new ministries. 

• To make things harder, in most unchurched and under-resourced parts of the world the population is growing so fast that even the existing churches are struggling to adapt. 

• Millions of churches around the world are operating in scarcity while 99% of western missions funds go to already reached areas.

We need every church to be multiplying, but these struggling churches need our help! This is why at Multiply, we are working to deliver systems and services that give churches the capacity to multiply followers, leaders, and churches - especially those who are under-resourced.

Few ministries today are directly addressing the problem that is stopping churches from multiplying. Churches in under-resourced areas don’t have the capacity to focus on biblical activities that are at the heart of church ministry. This may be because of: government regulation, lack of finances, persecution, cultural pressures, no leadership development…but it has them stuck.

Multiply comes alongside these churches and offers two (2) things: 

1. Support services that give the local church capacity to focus on the things that matter most to the health of their church and community. Most under-resourced churches are stuck in a pattern of burnout and constantly feel overwhelmed, overloaded, and out of capacity to consider growth. To break this cycle/culture Multiply comes alongside indigenous churches to carry some of the burden for them. We use industry best-practices and time-tested processes to relieve the burden of graphic design, legal issues, bookkeeping, financial considerations, sermon research, teaching schedule design, and marketing. Whether temporary or permanent, this reprieve gives local church leadership the much needed rest and space to re-imagine their God-given call to make disciples of all nations. 

With this newfound Ministry Capacity (as we refer to it) the local church and its leadership now have the margin, energy, and ability to work with Multiply on #2.

2. Systems that build followers, leaders, and churches. Through coaching, training, and mentoring the Multiply staff delivers a comprehensive plan to local churches that ensures three (3) things:

a.) Followers of Jesus are equipped to become better followers who develop others

b.) Leaders are cultivated from the harvest of followers

c.) Churches are planted and/or infused with new healthy leaders from the harvest

We call this Mission Capacity because it greatly increases the ability of under-resourced local churches to reach people far from God and plant new churches.

— the [multiply] team

Our Vision

A multiply Church in Every Under-Resourced Area of the World.

The founding vision of [Multiply] was to see a family of 40 churches multiplying followers, leaders, and churches together in Hampton Roads, Virginia by 2030. We still believe this is what God has called us to and we are working hard to reach this goal for our region!

Over the past few years God started to bring other visionary leaders to [Multiply] who had similar visions for reaching their own context. The first of these areas were India, Mexico, and Rwanda.

In light of these providential opportunities the [Multiply] Board of Directors began to prayerfully consider the role of [Multiply] in helping these indigenous organizations reach their goals. 

What resulted was an expansion of the original vision set for the Hampton Roads region alone.

Now, we believe God wants to use us to bring a healthy, reproducing, [Multiply] Family Church into every under-resourced area of the world. 

We will start by doing this in Hampton Roads by becoming a local family of 40 churches. But we won’t stop there! We will continue to partner with local churches and leaders all around the world who are interested in learning how to multiply followers, leaders, and churches in their region. We will target under-resourced areas within those regions to help churches multiply followers of Jesus. By doing this, we believe we will play a significant part in the Great Commission and ensure that followers of Jesus are maturing and multiplying everywhere there is need. 

why a multiply church?

A [Multiply] Church is a church with Ministry Capacity and Mission Capacity that is using the 3F System to multiply followers, leaders and more churches. It has a pathway for multiplication that is anchored in a culture of followership where people learn how to be followers of Jesus with their local leadership. It has a development program that trains followers to be small group leaders, volunteers, team leads, deacons, elders, church planters and more. 

A [Multiply] Church has the ability to reproduce itself as a new church expression without jeopardizing its own sustainability. Because of this, one [Multiply] Church connected to the global [Multiply] family has everything it needs to see the under-resourced in their region reached with the gospel of Jesus Christ. It multiplies followers as a family in every field (3F).

what is an “under-resourced area”?

An under-resourced area is any collection of neighborhood, community, town, county, or village of the world where churches need assistance becoming self-sustaining, self-sufficient, and multiplying. The area may be under-resourced economically, spiritually, emotionally, educationally, or systemically. Importantly, a [Multiply] region is not necessarily defined by population size, geographic distance, demographics, or language. Instead, it is determined by the presence or absence of healthy, multiplying, sustainable churches capable of filling their region with followers of Jesus.

— the [multiply] team

The Third Wheel

This summer, I’ve had the honor and privilege of teaching Intro to the Holy Spirit class we offer at Seapointe College (shameless plug ;-)). Here’s a bit of a cheat code/secret that some professors don’t want you to know: we love teaching our classes because it give us an opportunity to learn. Maybe it’s to re-learn things we forgot (yeah, that happens but no way we’re telling you that lol), or maybe it’s learning something we actually never knew before (Shock! I know, right?!). In our learning experience, the greatest part is that others have the opportunity of learning with and from us. Here’s a quick crash course on the Holy Spirit as we prepare to dive into John’s explanation of its testimony in the text. You’re welcome. :-D

1. When reading the Bible, always view the text “trinitarily” (basically, any time you see part of the Trinity, the Father, Son, or Holy Spirit, remember them being one and the same which means when you see one doing something you see them all. Where you see God, Jesus is also present. When Jesus is doing something in the text, so is the Holy Spirit. When you see the Spirit move in Acts and other places, God is moving there as well. Hopes that makes sense.

2. As believers, we need to know the difference between “indwelling” and “in-filling” of the Spirit. If you believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, that He died on the cross to save us of our sins, that He rose again and His Lordship is declared in the heavens until His victorious return then you have Him living inside of you in the form of Spirit! This is the indwelling of the Spirit, where it remains in you. In-filling is different in the sense that we see how the Bible shows that many were filled with the power of the Spirit and they did things like preach boldly, prophecy, perform miraculous signs and wonders and the like. Some believe that Spirit stopped doing these things when the last pages of the Bible were written. Some believe that the “gifts” of the Spirit as they’re known and very much alive and well today. Regardless of what one believes, the bottom line is simple: the Holy Spirit resides/abides in anyone who believes they’ve been saved and in Christ Jesus. And lastly…

3. If one does still believe in the working gifts given by the power of the Spirit, or even if you just believe that the Spirit lives and dwells within you, then trust and know that anything we do in the Spirit will always relate back to Acts 1:8…and nothing else. “You will receive power when the Spirit comes upon you…” not to show people how amazing we are, not because we’re gifted and anointed, not because we want to levitate and have Marvel powers for Jesus. We receive power so that we can go forth and be His witnesses. For no other reason do we have this power. If we try and use it for any other reason either it simply won’t work and/or we will still face judgment and find ourselves separated from the King in eternity.

Ok…now that we’ve gotten that out the way…time to actually unpack this spirit understanding of our identity in Christ. The thing John has been telling us about this entire time. Appreciate the grace and patience on the whole Holy Spirit class deal.

The Testimony of the Spirit

In the Christian journey, understanding the role of the Holy Spirit is crucial. The Spirit is not just a passive presence but an active testimony within us. According to 1 John 5:6-12, the Spirit, along with the water and the blood, testifies to the truth of Jesus Christ—His divinity, His humanity, and His redemptive work on the cross. This testimony isn't just external; it resides within every believer, confirming in our hearts the truth of God’s Word. This is the foundation of our faith, the assurance that we belong to Him, and the proof that our identity is firmly rooted in Christ.

***Saying the Quiet Part Out Loud***

So most of us know beyond a shadow of a doubt that the Spirit is important, that it is an imperative part of our Faith. We know that the Spirit IS God. So, knowing this, it amazes me to see how many Christians will treat the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God, like a third wheel; like it’s entirely too awkward and weird to have Him moving through our lives when we actually can’t live without Him. There’s a big, slightly awkward, and kind of unpopular reason tied to why I believe this is the case. Buckle up, and allow me to explain…

The Power of Love

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 13, speaks profoundly about the importance of love in the life of a believer. Even with the most extraordinary spiritual gifts—speaking in tongues, prophecy, and faith that can move mountains—without love, we are nothing. Love is the power that energizes our spiritual gifts, making them effective and impactful. It’s not enough to have the Spirit’s gifts; we must also embody the Spirit’s love. This love is not merely a feeling but an action, a commitment to live a life that reflects God’s love to a world desperately in need of Him.

And, if this wasn’t enough, I’ll ask this question as a reminder. Love is also known as what in Galatians 5:22? Oh yeah…it’s a member of a fruit of the…right…SPIRIT!! Having love is necessary to operate in the Spirit proper, and we run the risk of being a dangerous misrepresentation of the Spirit, the Gospel, and the Christian on the whole. With this understanding, let’s move forward.

The Witness of Water and Blood

John emphasizes the significance of the water and the blood as witnesses to Jesus Christ’s mission. His baptism in water and His shedding of blood on the cross both point to His divine sonship and His role as the Savior. But John doesn’t stop there. He brings it home by connecting these external witnesses to the internal witness of the Holy Spirit. This Spirit, who is truth, confirms the reality of Jesus’ identity and mission within us. This internal witness is what empowers us to live out our faith boldly, knowing that we are truly known and loved by God. And the reason it’s able to do so is because it, being Jesus, being God, is the only eternal source that can encourage, convict, challenge, comfort, and guide us to an ensured completion of a life that’s obedient to Him and is lived well. Not easy, no, but it is just…that…simple.

Life in the Son

The ultimate testimony, John declares, is that God has given us eternal life, and this life is found in His Son, Jesus Christ. This eternal life isn’t just a future hope; it’s a present reality for those who have the Son. To have the Son is to have life, and to have life is to have the Spirit. This life is the new identity we receive when we trust in Jesus, an identity fashioned and confirmed by the Holy Spirit. It’s a life that calls us to bear witness to the truth, to love as Christ loved, and to live by the Spirit, knowing that we are eternally secure in Him.

In this journey, the Holy Spirit is far from being a "third wheel." He is the essential presence that confirms our identity in Christ, empowers us to live out our faith, and assures us of the eternal life we have in Jesus. Let us, therefore, embrace this witness within, living lives that point others to Him, and walking in the truth and love that the Spirit imparts to us.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

Say Grace

When I was a kid growing up in GA, I attended Solid Rock Academy in Riverdale. It was an amazing experience for many reasons. It was a major part of where and how I “grew up.” It was a space where I engaged in many different things that impacted my life and who I would become. From something as simple as reciting the books of the Bible prior to the pledge of allegiance to remembering Mr. Shepherd’s ham being served every Thursday, there are some things I will simply never forget…and some things I’d rather forget. The “whoopins” we would receive (in love, of course) from ALLL of our teachers stays with me. In particular, our music teacher appeared to enjoy the “sing along” spanking he would give to anyone getting in trouble in his; doing to so to singing sensation Baby Face’s hit song “Whip Appeal” and having the entire class sing along to the lyrics of the chorus as you got what was coming to you.

I’m triggered. Let’s move on shall we?

I will say one of the things I loved most that we did every single day, together in the same space…is say grace. Before breakfast. Before lunch. There was something that always felt satisfying about it (and no. Not just because I was getting ready to exercise fat boy tendencies). I loved the food, yes, but I also loved the time that we spent together, the ability to reflect on our day. I’m surprised at how much those things meant even as a kid. Now, as I look back, I see some similarities on saying grace and how we live our lives as believers. Among these things, I love that saying “Grace” blesses a thing, that it blesses the time together, the hands that prepared it, and how all of it nourishes us. Grace covers a multitude of things in our lives, and likewise it covers a multitude of things in our lives. It would do us some good in figuring out how this applies. So like me doing my best to not be impatient before eating, let’s dive in. Let’s see how this Grace works.

Know That You Are Covered

In a world that often feels uncertain, it's essential to remember that we are covered by grace. This is not just a comforting thought but a powerful truth that shapes how we live our lives. Grace is not merely a concept to understand; it's a reality to embrace and live out daily. When we are in Christ, grace covers us always. This coverage isn't conditional on our behavior or achievements but is rooted in the unchanging love of God. Please remember there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Rom. 8:1 We must continually remind ourselves that our status as children of God means we are securely held by Him, and nothing can separate us from His love. Rom 8:38-39 This truth gives us the confidence to approach God with our needs and desires, knowing that He hears us and will answer according to His will. Heb 4:16 Grace, therefore, is the foundation on which we stand, giving us the assurance that no matter what comes our way, we are covered.

Living Gracefully Starts with Self-Awareness

Living a life marked by grace begins with recognizing our need for it. We must first say grace over ourselves. This means acknowledging our shortcomings, our sins, and our constant need for God’s mercy. It’s not about beating ourselves up but about being honest with ourselves and with God. Self-awareness is key to growth in faith. Just as we bless our food before eating, we must bless our lives with grace before stepping into each day. This practice of self-awareness and self-blessing is not selfish; it's necessary. It allows us to grow, to mature in our faith, and to live in the fullness of what God has for us. We must recognize that grace is not cheap. It calls us to a higher standard of living, one that reflects the love and holiness of God in every aspect of our lives.

Extend Grace to Others

Grace isn't meant to be hoarded; it’s meant to be shared. As recipients of God's grace, we are called to extend that same grace to others. This is often easier said than done, especially when we are wronged or when others fall short of our expectations. I’m convinced that 1 John 5:16-17 might be (at least) one of the most avoided, non-discussed passages in the Bible. I also believe the reason is simple: it doesn’t let our judgmental selves off the hook of GRACE. “16 If you see a fellow believer sinning in a way that does not lead to death, you should pray, and God will give that person life. But there is a sin that leads to death, and I am not saying you should pray for those who commit it. 17 All wicked actions are sin, but not every sin leads to death.” We can unpack the one sin at another time, and let it suffice to say and the record show whatever our preferred sin to condemn is…nine times out of ten it’s probably NOT THAT SIN!! Translation: if we see someone committing a sin our only responsibility is to pray for that person that God will give them life. Period.

Yes, the Bible encourages us to pray for our fellow believers, especially when they are struggling with sin. Grace calls us to lift others up in prayer, to support them in their journey, and to forgive as we have been forgiven. No. Questions. Asked. :-) This practice of extending grace transforms not only our relationships but also our communities. It builds a culture of love, forgiveness, and mutual support, where grace is not just a word but a way of life. In a world that often seeks to condemn and punish, the act of saying grace over others is a radical, countercultural stance that mirrors the heart of God.

Living in Grace Secures Our Future

Finally, living a life marked by grace secures our eternity. Grace is not just about the here and now; it’s about our eternal destiny. The assurance that we belong to God and that we are in fellowship with Him through Jesus Christ gives us a secure future. This grace doesn't just save us; it transforms us, preparing us for eternity with God. It’s a reminder that our life here on earth is just the beginning. As we live out our days, saying grace over our lives and the lives of others, we are participating in something much bigger than ourselves. We are part of God’s eternal plan, and in Him, we have everything we need for life and godliness and our ability to secure the glorious end He desires for all of us. All 2 Pet. 3:9. As we gather together, much like saying grace over a meal, we affirm our shared hope in Christ and our collective journey toward eternity. Or, like when I was a kid at the amazing Solid Rock Academy with the other kids during breakfast and lunch, we say grace together.

This shared grace is what binds us together and what propels us forward in faith. I encourage you…do all you can to live a life that says Grace.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

The Real Measure of Faith

What does it mean to have genuine faith? Is it merely about claiming a set of beliefs, or is it something more profound that shapes our daily lives? True faith is not just a ticket to be cashed in later; it’s a lifelong journey that reflects in our actions, attitudes, and how we live each day. The real test of faith isn't simply about having the right words at the end of our lives, but about how we embody that faith in every moment.

When we examine our lives through the lens of faith, we see that believing in Jesus as the Christ is foundational. This belief isn't just intellectual agreement but a transformative trust that shapes our identity. As believers, our lives should be marked by love—for God and for others. This love isn't an abstract concept; it's the evidence of our faith, visible in our interactions and decisions.

Bearing the Fruit of Love

Love is the hallmark of genuine faith. It’s more than just a feeling or a word; it's an active force that drives us to care for others, to serve, and to act with kindness and compassion. The scripture repeatedly emphasizes that those who truly love God will inevitably love others. This love isn’t optional or secondary—it’s the fruit that naturally grows in the life of someone who is truly connected to God.

This love is not just about being nice or agreeable; it’s about living out God's commands, which include loving others as we love ourselves. It involves making sacrifices, having hard conversations when necessary, and standing up for what is right. True love reflects God's holiness and calls us to a higher standard, where we align our actions with His will.

Becoming More Like Christ

As we deepen in our faith, we should see a transformation in ourselves—we should become more like Christ. This transformation isn't just about being more loving; it's about living a life of obedience to God's commands. Obedience might seem daunting, but scripture assures us that God’s commands are not burdensome. When we truly understand and embrace our identity in Christ, obedience becomes a natural expression of our faith. (see 1 John 5:1-5)

Being like Christ means living a life that honors God in every aspect—how we treat others, how we handle challenges, and how we make decisions. It’s about being intentional in our actions and allowing our faith to influence every part of our lives. This is the real victory that overcomes the world: a life transformed by faith in Jesus.

Victory Through Faith

Life is full of challenges, and sometimes it can feel like we’re in a constant battle against the pressures of the world. But the good news is that, as believers, we are not fighting this battle alone. Our faith in Jesus is the source of our victory. It’s not about trying harder or being perfect; it’s about trusting that Jesus has already overcome the world, and through Him, we can too. (see 1 John 5:4)

This victory isn’t something we achieve by our own strength—it’s a gift from God. When we place our faith in Jesus, we are assured of His help, His strength, and His victory in our lives. No matter the struggles we face, we can have confidence that Jesus will carry us through. It’s this trust in His power and love that enables us to live boldly and faithfully, passing the real test of faith each day.

This journey of faith is not a solitary one. As we walk in obedience and love, we reflect Christ to the world around us, showing that our faith is real, alive, and powerful. Let us strive to live out our faith daily, not just in words but in actions that glorify God and demonstrate His love to all.

— Daniel mackey

Youth Pastor - [Multiply]Family of Churches

The Radiant Love That Transforms

Growing up, my brother and I had one burning desire: to own a vehicle. We worked tirelessly from a young age, pooling our resources to achieve this dream. Finally, the day arrived, and we had our very own truck.

To us, the truck was amazing with a shiny finish, loud radio, and big tires. It made us feel on top of the world.

Yet, as I reflect on this memory, I realize that the truck wasn’t actually shiny and new. It wasn’t that desirable at all. The true value of the truck was not in its physical attributes but in the love and effort we poured into obtaining it. This story beautifully illustrates the two types of love we encounter in life: a love that values what is already deemed valuable and a love that imparts value to what it cherishes.

The Essence of Divine Love

Understanding the love of God is a profound endeavor. It's not merely about the affection we express or receive in human relationships. God's love transcends human understanding; it is a divine attribute that exudes from His very being. When the scriptures declare, "God is love," they emphasize that love is not just an action or feeling from God but an essential part of His nature. This divine love is not a logical tautology, equating love with God, nor is it merely an emphasis on God's loving nature. Instead, it is a fountain from which all genuine love flows. Just as water from a fountain spreads and nourishes everything around it, so does God's love emanate from Him, reaching and transforming all it touches.

Manifestation of Divine Love

The supreme manifestation of God's love is found in the sending of His only Son, Jesus Christ, into the world. This love was not because we were worthy or valuable, but because God chose to love us. In our unworthiness and sin, God's active love was demonstrated through Christ's sacrificial death, making us valuable and restoring our relationship with Him. Unlike human love, which is often passive and reactive, God's love is proactive and transformative. It seeks out the undeserving and imparts worth and dignity to them. This divine love is a gift that changes lives, not based on our merit but on God's gracious choice.

Active Love in Action

God's love is not a passive feeling but an active force. It moves from the heart to the hands and feet, demonstrating love through action. Jesus' life and ministry exemplify this active love. He didn't merely feel compassion; He acted on it, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and comforting the broken-hearted. This kind of love challenges us to move beyond mere feelings and into tangible expressions of care and kindness. The story of the Good Samaritan illustrates this beautifully, contrasting the passive neglect of the priest and Levite with the active compassion of the Samaritan. True love, as modeled by Jesus, compels us to act, to reach out, and to make a difference in the lives of others.

The Power of Unconditional Love

John’s transformation from a brash "Son of Thunder" to the beloved disciple speaks volumes about the power of God's love. His story is a testament to the fact that God’s love can reshape even the most unlikely of individuals. This love, unlike human affection, doesn’t wait for us to become worthy; it makes us worthy. It’s a love that reaches out to us in our brokenness and transforms us from the inside out. If you’ve ever felt unworthy or questioned your value, understand this: God's love for you is unconditional. It isn’t based on your achievements, your looks, or your ability to maintain a perfect image. It’s rooted in His nature, a divine love that chooses to value and cherish you, flaws and all. God’s love is a gift that renews and restores. It’s not just a concept to understand but a reality to live out. Embrace it fully, let it redefine your sense of self-worth, and share it generously with those around you. In doing so, you become a living testament to the power of God’s unconditional love.

— Nic lombardi

President - [Multiply]Family of Churches

The Danger of False Teachings

Every day, we are constantly bombarded with information and advice from all directions. It's easy to fall prey to bad advice, but there's an even more dangerous threat lurking: false teachings. These aren't just misguided opinions—they are harmful deceptions designed to lead us astray. Understanding how to identify and resist these false teachings is crucial for maintaining a strong, authentic faith.

Recognizing False Teachers

False teachers are not a new phenomenon. Even in the early days of Christianity, they posed a significant threat to the church. These individuals spread teachings that directly contradicted the true gospel, leading many believers astray. The apostle John warned his followers to be vigilant: "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world" (1 John 4:1). In today's digital age, the voices of false teachers are amplified through social media and other platforms. It's essential to test everything we hear against the truth of Scripture. Not everyone who claims to be a Christian truly is, and not every message that sounds spiritual comes from God.

The Litmus Test of True Teaching

So, how do we discern true teaching from false? John provides a clear test: "By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God" (1 John 4:2-3). The core of Christian belief is the divinity of Jesus Christ. Any teaching that denies this fundamental truth is false. This distinction is crucial because it separates authentic Christianity from other belief systems that may acknowledge Jesus but do not accept His divine nature. For instance, groups like Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses have different views on Jesus that do not align with the biblical portrayal of Him as God incarnate.

The Power of the Holy Spirit

False teachings can be intimidating, but we are not left defenseless. John reminds us that "he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" (1 John 4:4). As believers, we have the Holy Spirit within us, guiding us into all truth and helping us to overcome deception. This assurance gives us confidence. We don't rely on our own strength or wisdom to discern truth from falsehood; we depend on the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit not only helps us recognize false teachings but also empowers us to live out our faith authentically.

Living in the Light of Truth

Knowing that false teachers are out there and understanding how to identify them is only the beginning. Our daily lives should reflect our commitment to the truth. This means spending regular time in prayer and studying Scripture, which helps us deepen our relationship with Jesus and fortify our understanding of His teachings. Additionally, being part of a community of believers provides support and accountability. We can learn from each other, share insights, and encourage one another to stay true to the gospel. Engaging with true teachers and avoiding those who promote false doctrines is vital for maintaining spiritual health. In a world full of deceptive voices, it’s essential to surround ourselves with those who speak the truth in love.

Anchoring Ourselves in Truth

In the end, resisting false teachings is about more than just intellectual discernment; it’s about fostering a vibrant, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. By anchoring ourselves in the truth of His word and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we can navigate the complexities of our world without being led astray. Let’s commit to knowing Jesus deeply and living out His truth boldly, confident that He who is in us is greater than any false teacher we might encounter.

— Louis Fischer

Church Planting Resident - [Multiply]Family of Churches

Oh You a Fan, You a Fan, You a Fan

We live in a world of division, of love and hate. In its most overt form, nothing expresses this love and hate than our fandom. I mean…is it real love? Probably not. More like a really really really strong like but we’re not (but nobody wants to say that over and over again). In the grand scheme of things, if we’re looking at this from a biblical perspective, using the four words for love we see in the original Greek language, well…things just get weird. You don’t love your favorite team like you love your grandma (stourge). Or your brother (fileo)…nope. Or your husband/wife (eros). At least I hope not. And if you love your favorite team in the same unconditional way (agape) that you love Jesus that might be just a little idolatrous. I’ll leave that alone. What does stand true today, however, if you really “love” the one you must also somehow hate the other. And even in the smallest most menial things, this can sometimes carry very catastrophic results.

Dec. 29, 2014, after a Cowboys v. Redskins football game an argument broke out between two fans of the opposing teams which then turned into a brawl. One could almost laugh at the ridiculousness of this, that is until a “freakish accident” occurred when one fans to another’s neck proved fatal. The family of the deceased was beside themselves while the assailant now spends 14 years behind bars…over a football game. Let that sink in.

Now imagine being even more incensed against someone who has a differing view from something you should consider most important. Let’s say…your faith! And let’s take it a step further. What if they have the same faith as you, but they see certain aspects of it differently than you. Does that mean you’re not of the same team and that an offensive against them is necessary to set the record straight? To many believers, some strange reason, it is. And in their efforts, they forget one small thing that, as part of our Christian identity, makes a world of difference.

A Call to Authentic Love

In a world often divided by differences, the call to love one another authentically stands as a beacon of hope and unity. This love, rooted in action rather than mere words, is a powerful testimony to our faith and the truth we hold dear. As we explore the depths of this command, we find that it challenges us to move beyond superficial expressions and into a life marked by genuine care and selflessness.

Love in Action

True love is more than a sentiment; it is a call to action. As 1 John 3:18-24 reminds us, love should be evident through our deeds. "Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." This passage underscores the importance of living out our love in tangible ways. There are many who provide lip service on loving others, but let their actions tell it and they’ve distanced themselves from showing that they care about anyone. If you can’t say amen…say ouch. Our actions reveal the sincerity of our hearts and confirm that we belong to the truth. Even when we falter or feel inadequate, God's greater understanding and omniscience assure us that we can approach Him with confidence. Our obedience to His commandments, particularly to believe in Jesus Christ and love one another, solidifies our relationship with Him and ensures His presence within us through His Spirit. And His Spirit is the only way we truly are able to love Him, love His people, and make disciples.

Full stop.

Overcoming Division

Not for the sake of fandom and the consequences of some fans ‘ actions as we saw above, in today’s Christian culture the message of love is especially pertinent in this time where division is rampant. Galatians 2 provides a vivid account of how early Christians navigated cultural and ideological differences. Paul confronted Peter for his hypocrisy, in doing so highlighting the need to stand firm in the truth of the Gospel without succumbing to societal pressures. This specific narrative also encourages us to embrace diversity within the body of Christ and to reject any form of exclusion or superiority; a major message in the Bible that goes unnoticed by some lower case c churches and their leaders these days…I digress. But I thank God that when I read this text in 1 John 3 I see John’s admonition to love one another transcends cultural, ideological, and political differences, urging us to foster unity and mutual respect.

The Challenge of Tough Love

While the call to love one another is clear, the manner in which we express this love can sometimes be misunderstood. Or maybe it’s not. Maybe some folks just want people to do things the way they want them to or let them suffer the consequences. I’ll leave that alone, and may God be judge on things like that always. That being said, there is a place for "tough love," but it must be grounded in genuine concern and relationship. If you don’t know them and they haven’t asked you for advice on a subject at the least, don’t try it. If today’s culture, such things run the risk of being insensitive and doing the exact opposite of what the desired effect should be. Jesus exemplified how to do this perfectly, showing compassion and truth without condemnation. In John 8, He protected the adulterous woman from her accusers by removing them, He then assured her that He wasn’t there to accuse her either, and finally He gently instructed her to "go and sin no more." This approach contrasts sharply with the Pharisees' judgmental attitudes, and I don’t (but do lol) want to say that we have far too many believers who are satisfied with just saying “go sin no more” forsaking the dismissal of accusation. May this story serve as a reminder that true tough love seeks restoration, not punishment, and is reserved for those within close, trusting relationships.

The Commitment to Follow

The journey of love is not without its challenges. If it were, there would be no reason to discuss why obedience is important. There’s no need to worry about being obedient to things we initially want to do…uh oh. John 6 recounts how many of Jesus' followers abandoned Him because His teachings were difficult to understand; the ever dreaded passage that is John 6…6…6 (it’s there. Check for yourself!). Yet, the Twelve remained, recognizing that Jesus alone had the words of eternal life. This commitment to follow, despite difficulties and misunderstandings, is a testament to the power of authentic love and faith. It calls us to remain steadfast in our devotion to Christ and to each other, even when the path is hard. And footnote: even on our best days it will always be hard.

Living Out Authentic Love

The call to love one another is a profound and transformative mandate that goes beyond all we would ever imagine our world to be. In short, I’ve always said it this way: loving people ain’t for the faint of heart. It challenges us to demonstrate our love through actions, embrace unity amidst diversity, practice restorative tough love, and remain committed to our faith journey in spite of the world around us some…most…almost all the time being unwilling to do the same. As we embody this love, we become living testimonies of God's truth and grace, drawing others into the fullness of His love. Let us, therefore, strive to love authentically, reflecting the heart of Christ in all we do. Amen.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

The defining mark of a christian

The Mark of True Believers

In the world of faith, actions speak louder than words. The essence of being a true believer is not about the outward symbols we carry or the labels we wear. It's not about the size of your Bible, the stickers on your car, or the music you listen to. It's about how we live our lives and, more importantly, how we love others. The Bible teaches us that sacrificial love is the defining characteristic of a child of God.

In 1 John 3:10-15, it is evident who belongs to God and who does not. Those who do not practice righteousness or love their brothers and sisters are not of God. Love is the primary proof of our identity as believers. Jesus emphasized this in John 13:34-35, stating that people will recognize us as His disciples by our love for one another. Love should be our highest priority, our main objective, and our greatest ambition. Without love, all our achievements and possessions are meaningless.

Jesus: Our Model for Sacrificial Love

Jesus exemplifies the ultimate act of love. 1 John 3:16 tells us that we know love because He laid down His life for us, and we should do the same for our brothers and sisters. This is the essence of sacrificial love—putting others' needs above our own, just as Jesus did. It's not just about grand gestures but also about small, everyday acts of love.

Mother Teresa famously said, "There are not great actions; only small actions done with great love." This means that every act of kindness, no matter how small, is significant. Whether it's making dinner for your family, listening to a friend, or helping a neighbor, these are all acts of love that reflect Jesus' example. The best way to show love is by giving our time, a resource we can never get back, making it a true sacrifice.

Living Out Sacrificial Love

Living a life of sacrificial love requires a change of heart. 1 John 3:17-18 challenges us to see the needs around us and respond with action, not just words. If we have the means to help but close our hearts to those in need, how can God's love be in us? This kind of love is not something we can achieve on our own; it is empowered by the gospel and the example of Jesus.

Jesus didn't just teach about love; He demonstrated it through His actions. His life was a testament to loving others selflessly. To live out this love, we need to receive more of God's love so that we can pour it out to others. It's about allowing God's love to transform us, enabling us to love in ways that go beyond our natural capabilities.

The Importance of Love

At the end of the day, the most important thing we can do is to be a person of love. Our work, hobbies, achievements, and possessions will all fade away, but love endures (See 1 Corinthians 13). Life is not about how much we earn, acquire, or accomplish; it's about how we love. When we focus on loving God and loving others, we fulfill our true purpose.

So, how can you become more loving today? Is there someone in your circle of influence (family, friends, neighbor, co-worker) who needs more of your time and attention?

— Daniel mackey

Youth Pastor - [Multiply]Family of Churches

S.I.N.

No matter how you look at it, this topic is always something to avoid. Either someone is wayyy too heavy handed with the hell, fire, and brimstone or they cheapen the mess out grace and offer a million free passes. Or my favorite of all…they avoid the topic altogether. I, thankfully??, wasn’t given such an opportunity. Let me tell about the life changing “scene” that made it inherently clear sin was something I couldn’t avoid. 

About 12 years back, I was home watching the movie, 127 Hours. I was very curious about it because I knew it was based on a true story. A young man, living life to the fullest, most frequently enjoys bike riding and rock climbing. One day, while climbing, he slips. He falls…and a boulder comes with him! While I’m grateful he wasn’t crushed in the process, he does somehow manage to get his hand caught between a rock wall and that boulder. I’ll save you the details, except to say he “single handedly” did what he could to walk away with just a single hand. I’ll leave that there. Though that was one of the craziest things I’ve ever seen, the revelation I got was even crazier to me. I came to realize that the same way he separated himself from his hand (Sorry! That’s the details. Just sayin.) is what it’s like for us to separate ourselves from sin in our lives. I couldn’t unhear it, and now you can’t. You’re welcome. And with that frame, let us approach the topic at hand.

Understanding the Nature of Sin

So the first thing I feel needs to be done as we approach this topic is to actually really talk about it, and before we go anywhere we need to dispel a major myth. Buckle up! Here we go! *takes deep breath…Sin is more than just a single act of wrongdoing; it is a state of being that separates us from God. According to 1 John 3:4-10, everyone who sins breaks God’s law, and all sin is contrary to the law of God. However, Jesus came to take away our sins, and in Him, there is no sin. Therefore, anyone who lives in Him does not continue to sin. This distinction is crucial: committing a sin and living in sin are different. The former is a momentary lapse, while the latter is a habitual lifestyle that signifies a deeper disconnection from God. These are not the same.

The Bible provides clear examples of this difference. King David, despite his grievous sins, repented and sought God’s heart and didn’t have a continuation of issues concerning one particular sin. Moses, on the other hand (Yeah. That Moses), avoided an anger issue for 39…really 79 years that kept him from entering the promised land. Though he’s still in the Hall of Faith, it’s a major tell that in his faithfulness he was denied the one thing connected to what he was CALLED TO ACCOMPLISH in leading the people. If you can’t say amen…you know.

The Deceptive Nature of Pride

Now that that’s out the way, let’s focus on the basics of what sin actually is. There’s a Bible verse that lays out the basics well. Proverbs 21:4 states, "Haughty eyes, a proud heart, and evil actions are all sin." Pride manifests in various forms: haughtiness or considering oneself above others, a prideful heart which tends to boast in both one’s abilities and inabilities (people really aren’t trying to talk about that…I digress), and evil actions which are ultimately  resisting God’s transformative power. Pride deceives us into thinking we are self-sufficient, and it blinds us to our need for God’s grace.

Scripture repeatedly warns against pride. It leads to destruction (Proverbs 16:18), breeds quarrels (Proverbs 13:10), and deceives the heart (Jeremiah 49:16). The antidote to pride is humility. James 4:6 says, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Therefore, embracing humility allows us to receive God’s grace and fosters a genuine transformation in our hearts. If we don’t choose to do this, there’s only one other option: humiliation. They sound similar, but trust you choose which one and the former is much better than the latter.

The Complexity of Sin and Human Nature

Sin is multifaceted and deeply rooted in human nature. Romans 7:14-25 vividly describes the internal struggle against sin. Even the apostle Paul acknowledged his battle with sin, stating, "I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate, I do." See that Paul said this. Paul. No, seriously!! Righteous, world changing, church planting, ⅔ of the whole New Testament writing Paul! Be encouraged by this. If he struggled, we may still be doing something right. But yeah. This passage indeed underscores the ongoing conflict between our sinful nature and our desire to live righteously. Stay the course.

Understanding this complexity also helps us avoid judgment and extend grace to others. We are all on a journey of sanctification, gradually becoming more like Christ. This process requires perseverance and community support. Surrounding ourselves with fellow believers who hold us accountable and encourage us is essential for spiritual growth. It’s not easy, but with all the resources He gives us it can be done.

Living a Righteous Life

Living a righteous life involves more than avoiding sin; it requires actively pursuing a relationship with God and loving others. 1 John 3:10 states, "Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God." Righteous living is marked by obedience to God’s commands and genuine love for others.

The Bible emphasizes that our actions should reflect our faith. It’s not enough to merely profess belief; our lives must demonstrate it. This involves daily choices to resist sin, seek God’s guidance, and show love and kindness to those around us. By doing so, we reflect the transformative power of Christ in our lives.

True transformation begins with understanding the nature of sin and recognizing our need for God’s grace and mercy. If you don’t start there, then please do yourself the favor of not passing go. We don’t have the cross without the understanding of grace and mercy for us. We have to have it for others. By confronting our pride, embracing humility, and committing to a life of righteousness, we can experience genuine spiritual growth. The journey of faith is ongoing, and we must support one another in our pursuit of living out God’s will. Let us strive to be like Jesus, reflecting His love and grace in all we do.

Stay the course. Championing you!!

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

Beyond Age: Living God's Will

Hot take that I’m willing to bet is rather undisputed:
I’ve seen believers as young as their 10’s and teens that have more faith, wisdom…dare I say maturity than a believer in their 70’s and 80’s. And it’s not even up for discussion! 

If this offends anyone, I’d encourage them to consider why…nevermind. I digress. I bring up this mildly disrespectful statement to make a primary point we’ll dive into in a bit, but let’s start with some unpacking. 

Keeping it simple, it’s hopefully easy to understand that our relationship with God begins with embracing the fundamental truth that our sins are forgiven. Amen! And this isn’t  just a message for children but for all believers, regardless of age or spiritual maturity. In 1 John 2:12, we are reminded that our sins are forgiven for His name's sake. This forgiveness is not a mere formality; it is the bedrock of our relationship with God. It allows us to approach Him with confidence, knowing that we are cleansed and accepted.

Knowing the Father goes beyond a surface-level acknowledgment. It’s not just believing. Many who don’t believe in “God” still believe there’s something out there. Also, remember the Bible says even demons believe! Jam. 2:19 It is an intimate understanding that shapes our entire being. This profound knowledge is what distinguishes mere belief from genuine faith. As believers, we must do all we can to know God. This depth of our knowing, our relationship is reflected in our actions, decisions, and the way we live our lives daily.

Spiritual Maturity and Overcoming Evil

Spiritual maturity is a key theme in the Christian journey. John addresses different groups within the faith—those who are God’s children, and they who are either mature and young in the faith—highlighting their unique roles and stages of them. Those who are mature in faith are recognized for their deep knowledge of Christ, who existed from the beginning. This maturity is not just about age but about the depth of their relationship with God and their understanding of His eternal nature.

For the young in faith, John commends their strength and victory over the evil one. This strength is not their own but comes from God's Word living in their hearts. Overcoming evil is a significant milestone in the journey of faith, and it demonstrates the power of God's Word and the resilience it builds within us. This victory is a testament to the transformative power of God's presence in our lives.

But wait…we didn’t say anything about the children…hold that thought. We’ll get there. For now, let’s talk about that good ol’ world.

Loving the Father, Not the World

John’s message is clear: do not love the world or the things in the world. The world, with its fleeting desires and temporary pleasures, cannot offer what the Father gives. The desires of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life are all traps that lead us away from God. These are not from the Father but are from the world, which is passing away along with its desires.

The call to love the Father and not the world is a call to discernment. It is about recognizing what truly matters and choosing to invest in what is eternal. Don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing wrong with “things.” God created them. He created money which can serve us well. Remember it’s the love  of money that’s the root of all evil. Likewise, having things isn’t in and of itself wrong. The passage makes clear it’s when you add words like pride and craving that things begin to change. That’s when a little something called idolatry can, and will, manifest fam.

Doing the will of God ensures that we live forever, as opposed to the temporary satisfaction the world offers. This perspective shift is crucial for living a life that is pleasing to God and impactful in the kingdom.

Living Out God’s Will

Living out God's will is the ultimate expression of our faith. It goes beyond avoiding sin and encompasses actively doing what pleases God. Listen, I’m not saying avoiding sin is impossible but I find it interesting that no one save Jesus was able to do IN THE BIBLE!! And even if someone was, congrats!!! Way to go!! What else you got? That just can’t be it. If it was, then why did Jesus not stop at telling someone “go forth and sin no more?” Why did He then give us the commandment to go forth and make disciples?! Make it make sense. I’ll wait…I’m willing bet you didn’t waste your time. Thank you for that. Real spiritual maturity involves love, obedience, and a commitment to His commands. Deut. 30 is excellent for laying this out, and John emphasizes that knowing God and having our sins forgiven should lead to a transformed life as well—a life that reflects His love and grace.

In practical terms, doing God's will might look different for each of us, depending on our unique callings and circumstances. However, the underlying principle remains the same: our lives should be a testament to God's love and a reflection of His character. By living out His will, we not only secure eternal life for ourselves but also become conduits of His love and grace to others.

Now allow me to help us understand how we can access a proper mind and heart set to know God better and be our most obedient and committed selves. Let’s revisit the verses on children. Going back, a little deep dive reveals we miss a very key element. The “children” we read in v. 12 and 14 aren’t even the same word! Bible nerd, ACTIVATE!! v. 12 is the Greek word teknion- little child – a small child…endearing. John uses this one throughout the letter. (except in v. 18). However, the word used in v. 14 is paidion. This also means little child, but Helps Word Studies shows us when used properly it means a child under training; its root (pais) being a word that means young male/female slave/servant; thus, symbolically a servant of God. The ultimate here is found when you connect each word to its identifying sentence in the passage. Recall the first one, the endeared little children, are connected to those who’ve been forgiven on account of the name of Jesus. But the second, the child who’s in training…they are the one whom the passage says knows God. This is a comforting, yet awkward moment. It’s great to know as children of God that we are “endeared” because we’ve been forgiven, but to know Him we have to continuously be children willing to train?? I’ll give you a moment to reflect as we realize the answer is yes that our commitment to seeking Him is the only thing that expedites our call and purpose. Is it easy? No. Can it be done? Absolutely.

in CLosing

The journey of faith is marked by an ever-deepening knowledge of God, overcoming the challenges posed by the world, and living out His will with unwavering commitment. Age is indeed just a number when it comes to spiritual maturity and the pursuit of God's purposes. Whether we are young or old in the faith, our call is to grow in our relationship with God, reject the fleeting desires of the world, and live lives that glorify Him.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

Walking in the Light: Our True Identity in Christ

In our journey of faith, one of the most profound challenges is aligning our lives with the identity that Christ calls us to embody. The apostle John offers a powerful reminder about the authenticity of our faith in his writings. To live in Christ means to live in truth, love, and obedience. This article explores how we can embrace our true identity in Christ and avoid the pitfalls of living with a "fake ID."

We All Know “That Person”

Growing up, many of us wanted to believe we were more mature than we actually were. Shame of you if this was the case, but some of us need even more grace because we took our desire to do so to a whole ‘notha level. We went in search of the holy grail of hostility and shenanigans. Yes, I’m speaking of…the FAKE ID!! This “amazing” piece of false equiment would guarantee you cigarettes, six packs, and situations that you had 0 business being a part of! We accessed things that we could partake in (here’s the word) prematurely, and no matter how worth it it seemed many who had one expressed real resentment for using it and the consequences that came if that got caught. 

Ultimately, the lesson learned is that we needed time to grow and mature before we really understood what we were engaging in and how to do so correctly. The same thing can be said for how we grow in our relationship with Christ. Many want to walk fully in Faith, but far too many times aren’t obedient in the maturity of it; the way Christ lived it. And instead of taking the time to learn, grow, and mature they simply pick and choose the things they want to operate in most. All grace, no truth. Allll truth, no grace. No matter how they do it, they operate immaturely. In this way, they don’t fully mature. They use a fake ID. And doing this can…and usually will…have consequences.

Living in the Light

John's epistle emphasizes the importance of living in the light of Christ. "If anyone claims, 'I am living in the light,' but hates a fellow believer, that person is still living in darkness" (1 John 2:9). The metaphor of light and darkness illustrates the stark difference between genuine faith and falsehood. Living in the light means embracing love AND truth (if you can’t say amen, say ouch!), reflecting Christ's nature in all of our actions and relationships. When we harbor hatred or animosity towards others, we stray into darkness, away from the true light of Christ.

We have…a fake…ID.

The call to love one another is not new; it is a commandment we have had from the very beginning. Yet, it remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. By living in the light, we ensure that our actions do not cause others to stumble, thereby fostering a community that thrives on love and mutual respect.

The Dangers of a Fake ID

The concept of a "fake ID" serves as a metaphor for claiming to be a follower of Christ without embodying His teachings. Just as a fake ID is used to gain premature access to privileges, claiming to know God without obeying His commandments is deceptive and harmful. John warns, "If someone claims, 'I know God,' but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth" (1 John 2:4).

And though many believers are well-intentioned and I have no doubt they are, myself included, we might fall into the trap of immaturity in their faith. We might profess faith but fail to live it out. This is never good, but ultimately it damages our witness! The maturity in faith requires a deep commitment to following Christ's teachings and living as He did. This means continuous growth, learning, and transformation, reflecting Christ in every aspect of our lives.

The Power of Obedience

Obedience to God's commandments is a true measure of our love for Him. John asserts, "But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him" (1 John 2:5). Obedience is not just about following rules; it is about aligning our hearts and actions with God's will.

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of living out the commandments through His teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. The entire first chapter of the sermon, chapter 5 (remember, there are three altogether. My bet is He was taking this kinda serious ;-)), Jesus expresses everything from being peacemakers to loving our enemies, laying out a comprehensive guide to living a life that honors God. Obedience to these teachings is a testament to our faith and a crucial aspect of our true identity in Christ. If Jesus actually meant what He said (here’s a hint. He DOES), then many of us have some correcting to do in how we approach and love our neighbor…and God. (If you can’t say amen aga…you get the point.)

Building a Community of Love

The ultimate goal of living in Christ is to build a community rooted in love and unity. Jesus prayed for this unity in John 17, desiring that all believers be one as He and the Father are one. This unity is not about sameness but about oneness, a harmonious relationship built on love and mutual respect in the midst of difference; unity in diversity.

The enemy often tries to drive a wedge into this unity by promoting a false sense of identity, where actions do not align with the professed faith. To counter this, we must strive to live authentically, reflecting Christ's love in our interactions. By doing so, we create a community that embodies the true light of Christ, standing as a testament to His transformative power.

Embracing our true identity in Christ requires living in the light, avoiding the pitfalls of a fake ID, obeying God's commandments, and fostering a loving community. Committing to these principles, ensuring that our lives reflect the truth and love of Christ, thereby fulfills our highest potential in Him. Amen to being “grown” enough to not have the need for a fake ID.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church