Planting Space

I spent Monday in downtown Indianapolis with Jake Nelson, who has planted Response Christian Church.  He took me around the downtown area to show me the target area of the new church.  One building in particular caught my eye.  It was a magnificent church.  The architecture was amazing.  I asked what church it was.  Jake’s answer shocked me.  He said, “Oh that’s not a church, its condos.”

There is something sad about seeing a church building that no longer has a congregation meeting in it.  As I did a quick Google search, I found several churches that had been converted into condos.  While the church planter in me loves the creative use of space, I can’t help but wonder how we can ensure the churches we start never see this fate.  So here is my list, feel free to add your comments on how to condo-proof your church.

1. Be externally focused.
2. Train up elders and leaders that understand the importance discipleship and evangelism.
3. Constantly evaluate what you do.
4. Continue to conduct demographic research and needs assessments for you community and shape ministries to fit.
5. Be willing to change.
6. Be relevant.
7. Don’t condo-proof.  Go with trend and sell that outdated building for top dollar and use the funds to start new churches and build community centers.

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