The Importance Of A Vision (Part 2)

Any successful endeavor requires a vision and for the vision to be effective, it must be: 1) God driven, 2) individual, and 3) corporate.  In other words a local may have a corporate vision, but for the vision to be fulfilled, it has to implemented by individuals.  Each person must embrace the vision.  It is my firm belief, that God intends great things for His church, especially for those with a willingness to work the vision.

What A Vision Needs

There are four qualities to any vision:

1.  A vision needs specific action or steps in how to accomplish it.  Without the action to go with the vision, our efforts will be futile.  Vision without action is meaningless!

2.  A vision needs faith.  Faith in the power of the gospel and faith in the power of the Lord to prepare us and empower us for service.

3.  A vision needs boldness.  Boldness was a virtue displayed by the early Christians.  They had boldness to speak the Word of God no matter what the consequences.  We need that same boldness to speak what we know is the truth but to do it in a spirit of love.

4.  A vision need persistence.  Too often we give up just before the fruition of the vision.  It's important that we not lose heart because we shall reap in due time (Galatians 6:9).  Many visions are never realized because someone gave up too soon.

What Bethel's Vision Is All About

Bethel Church Choctaw has a five fold vision that God gave when the church was started.

1.  Outreach

Outreach is very crucial to the growth of the local church.  The church must have a vision to reach out into the community and world in obedience to the Great Commission.  Jesus came to seek and to save the lost.  It is our responsibility to do the same.

2.  Evangelism

Similar to outreach, evangelism is what God has called us to do...evangelize the world!  This  isn't a task for just one person, but the entire Body of Christ.  With each person doing their part this great task can be accomplished.

3.  Pastoral Care

This is an area to is too often neglected in the local church, but pastoral care is extremely important for people of every local church.  It encompasses counseling, home visits, caring for people in time of death and other needs.

4.  Discipling

A disciple is a follower of Christ who is able to give direction to new followers as well as encouragement, involvement, and fellowship.  Discipleship is a way of life.

5.  Training

The final part of Bethel's vision is that of training.  The local church is under the mandate of God to train its people for service.  Strong leadership comes through training not teaching alone. Leadership must be developed, monitored, matured through discipline and seasoned with love, it doesn't just develop on its own. (2 Timothy 2:1-7).

So that's the vision! Now, what are you going to do with the vision?  It's your job to discover where you fit in!  God want's to involve you in reaching the world.  If Bethel is the place for you, then join with us and find your God given direction.  If it's not, then find another community of believers you can join with to help fulfill God's plan for the salvation of the world!

-- Pastor Temple