OBC-S Moving Toward Independent Church Plant

As was announced last Sunday morning, the elders have decided to move towards functional independence of OBC-South effective 9/1/10. This is to say that we are now officially transitioning from the campus status to church plant status.

There is a lot that is bound up in this decision and process. This post aims to anticipate and answer some of the most immediate and common questions.

The first thing that we must note is that this is a good thing! In fact, it is what the elders have been praying for and working towards for a number of years. We have long been burdened to see a gospel-centered church planted in Sarpy County. Therefore, this is a time to rejoice in answered prayer and the good providence of God.

Leadership & Budget- One of the more noticeable changes that we will undergo is with regard to leadership and budget. In the past 2 years OBC has shared the same elders and budget. This was prudent for us to do as an infant congregation in the area as resources and leadership are always among the chief challenges for a church plant.

Now, however, with a plurality of elders in place and the demonstrated resources to support and expand ministry, OBC-S is ready to move on toward the next stage in the ‘gestation’ process. We praise God for his faithfulness in this area!

As of 9/1 the South elders will operate distinctly from the North elders. We will be functionally independent. This is the same for the day to day operations of the staff. As pastors we will be concentrating almost exclusively on ministry related to OBC-S and the North pastors with regard to the North ministry. Doubtless this will free up both elder boards for more specific shepherding for their respective locations.

Some have asked if Josh and I will still office at OBC-N. The answer is yes. This is such a blessing to us. The climate of pastoral encouragement and support that is established at OBC is so dear to us. We are thankful that we are continuing this relationship.

Furthermore, with regard to budget, we will now be separating the giving from each ‘campus’ to support the ministries at that location. This is one area that will require very careful, thoughtful and prayerful work from the elders. We want to ensure that this process does not in any way hinder the ministry that is going on now. Therefore, we have set a plan to have financial independence and distinction accomplished by 9/1/2012. This 2 year plan affords us the opportunity to carefully ensure that ministry is supported.

Naming- I have gotten a lot of questions about our name. We are in the process of selecting a name for OBC-S. This process should be wrapped up and announcement forthcoming within the next 30 days or so.

North / South Ministries- Many folks ask about going to Men’s Breakfasts, Women’s Ministries, Retreats, etc.

The answer is first with regard to paradigm and then to practice.

Please note that this is a good thing. The relationship between North and South has never been stronger. We are all rejoicing in what God is doing through OBC. South longs to be a faithful and encouraging ‘sister’ church to the North whereby we share in ministry encouragement and partnership.

Therefore, with regard to practice, much of what we currently do will continue. I envision us sharing Wednesday night ministries (CTA & IBS), Women’s Ministries, Men’s Breakfasts, Church Conferences, Sunday Night services, etc. In other words, you will not be made to say 'Shibboleth' in order to enter OBC-N. We are welcome and encouraged to participate. (If that rings flat, read Judges 12.5-6). Many people have asked if Allyn N will still be doing sound for weddings. The answer is ‘yes’. This may be funny, but it is illustrative of the types of questions that come and the opportunity to show that this relationship endeavors to remain strong and encouraging.

I think this touches on some of the big questions. If you have others please see Dave, Josh or myself. You can also talk to your Care Group leader as they are pretty well up to speed on the micro-level details. We will continue to post updates and clarifying posts on the blog here so please, stay tuned.

Over all, be encouraged with evident grace, blessing and faithfulness of God. He is truly blessing us with the joy of ministry. Lives are being changed by the gospel and Christ is being exalted as the great Savior. For this we rejoice together.

By Grace Alone,

Erik Raymond