Manage episode 493046508 series 3658564
In this episode, I share stories from our journey planting Breakthrough Church in Richardson, including real moments of healing, steps of faith, and the sometimes messy process of trusting God with growth. Listen in as I open up about both the encouragements and challenges of cultivating community, and discuss the power of relational evangelism—from praying for breakthrough in church to candid spiritual conversations at Starbucks. Whether you’re exploring faith, leading in ministry, or seeking inspiration for everyday life, you’ll find honest insights and heartfelt encouragement in these experiences. Join me as we pursue what it means to proclaim and demonstrate the kingdom of Jesus in real, tangible ways.
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Chapter Outline
(00:00) Honest Reflections on Church Planting
I open with an honest look at the challenges and encouragements I'm experiencing as we plant Breakthrough Church in Richardson. I share the impact our journey is having on listeners and how stories of healing and deliverance demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit.
(01:00) Casting Vision and Preaching the Presence of God
I talk about recent opportunities to preach at different campuses and cast the vision for Breakthrough. Standing in front of multiple groups, I shared about the presence of God, the tabernacle pointing to Jesus, and witnessed people’s hearts being stirred, including a powerful moment praying for a woman in chronic pain.
(03:00) Healing Through Persistent Faith and Team Ministry
I recount the story of praying for a woman with severe pain. Despite initial discouragement and incomplete healing, the ministry team and her desperate faith created a moving encounter with God. Sal’s recent move onto our part-time staff becomes a testament to God's faithfulness and a refreshing addition to our community.
(05:00) Wrestling with Numbers and Trusting God with Growth
I admit to my own struggles with measuring success by attendance, especially at our launch team gatherings. Despite discouragement, God grows our group unexpectedly and brings new faces, reinforcing the practice of faithfulness over metrics.
(07:00) Worship, Kingdom Demonstration, and Team Expansion
Our latest team gathering becomes the most attended yet. We experience rich worship, share testimonies, and equip one another for healing ministry, underscoring the importance of both proclaiming and demonstrating the kingdom of God. I highlight stories of growth, new families joining, and the role Sal is playing in building our worship culture.
(09:25) Everyday Evangelism at Starbucks
I describe a Spirit-led encounter with a Starbucks manager who opens up to the gospel message. Through genuine conversation and listening, I share the good news and commit to ongoing friendship and support, illustrating fruitful evangelism through steady, relational presence.
(13:59) The Gospel Moves at the Pace of Relationships
Drawing a contrast with other evangelistic approaches, I emphasize the power of long-term, relational outreach. I encourage listeners to identify those in their own lives who are open to spiritual conversations, underscoring that the gospel thrives in authentic relationships.
(15:48) Prayer and Invitation for Sharing Testimonies
I close by praying for listeners, asking the Holy Spirit to give them clarity and courage to love those around them. I invite everyone to share their own stories of God’s work, hoping to foster a community built around testimony and mutual encouragement.
Keywords: healing, church planting, faith, Breakthrough Church, Dallas, Holy Spirit, community, testimony, evangelism, leadership
27 episodes