Last week I introduced you to a statement that reflects my understanding of our mission as a family of churches, “We help the church make disciples today.” It’s a smoother way to express our official mission statement, “GTBN acts as a catalyst coming alongside of churches to help them fulfill the great commission in Southeast Texas and beyond.” Tell me, doesn’t the former roll more easily off the tongue? There’s no change in substance, but I hope you see a sharper focus.
But what does this mean? Let’s look today at the opening clause, “We help the church…” These four words reflect the heart of our relationship.
As I’ve shared before, scripture assigns ministry to the local church, like yours. And GTBN is certainly not a replacement for the church. But the scripture also shows autonomous and independent churches cooperating toward the Lord’s greater mission, most clearly in the councils and the support of and participation with Paul’s missionary efforts.
This biblical spirit of cooperative mission stands as the foundation for our partnership through GTBN. We help one another in the mission to which God has called us.
I’ll share about how we help in future posts. My point today is to stress the significance of this partnership.
I liken it to a family. Last October, like many of you, my household evacuated in advance of hurricane Laura. We first checked that our kids and their families were going to be safe, soon agreeing that we would all evacuate together. Next, we examined where to go, with offers from family and friends scattered across Texas. We eventually drove west, staying with my mother-in-law. In each case, family connections facilitated our actions.
Upon our return, the Baptist family kicked into gear. GTBN personnel began assessing needs, partnering with convention Disaster Relief units to marshal resources wherever needed. Soon the churches of GTBN had teams serving both their communities and each other. Those who could crossed over to help our neighbors in Louisiana. Similar patterns played out for Delta, COVID 19, and before with Imelda and Harvey. In each, our familiar connections facilitated ministry.
But it’s not just about disasters. Across the board, the greatest asset we have as a network of churches are the people from these same churches, sharing their wisdom, gifts, and effort to the glory of Christ. Like family, we’re here for each other.
If you follow me on Facebook, you know the hashtag I use for posts related to GTBN ministry, #bettertogether. It’s not unique. In fact an association a few counties to the west uses the same, as do others (though I believe GTBN started first, even before I moved here). But the tag makes a point: we are better together, stronger even, when we stand with others who share our convictions and calling.
That’s what “We help the church” is all about.
More to come.
Bro. Jim