Lecture Notes: Starting and Leading JPCC

Introduction

• Common questions from pastors/youth:
  • "How did you start JPCC?"
  • "Did you have a vision or hear God speak?"
  • "How were you so sure?"
• Answer: No audible voice or clear vision, just a deep impression from the Word of God.

Key Biblical Passages Influencing JPCC's Mission

• Philippians 2:14-16:
  • "Do everything without grumbling or arguing... shine among them like stars."
  • Mission: Build a generation of stars.
• Romans 14:17-18:
  • Kingdom of God is about righteousness, peace, and joy.
  • Importance of being approved by men (Greek: 'dokimos').

Concept of 'Dokimos'

• 'Dokimos' means well-approved, reliable.
• Coin exchange analogy: integrity in circulation to avoid counterfeit.
• Definition of a 'generation of stars':
  • Not just successful individuals but those with moral integrity.

Seeking Counsel and Building a Team

• Importance of counsel: Proverbs 11:14.
• Approach:
  • Shared impressions with trusted, spiritually mature individuals.
  • Assembled a team instead of going solo:
    • Quote: "Superman is dead. Only Super Team."

Initial Steps in Establishing JPCC

• First service: July 4, 1999.
• Unique practices established:
  • No collection basket during services.
  • Break on last Sunday of the year.
• Reason for decisions: Based on solid impressions, logical, and biblical.

Reflection on the Journey

• Ephesians 3:20:
  • God’s ability to surpass expectations.
• Impact of JPCC:
  • Personal transformations and community restoration.
  • JPCC as a home for identity, support, and family.

Church as God's Outlet

• Comparison between online shopping and church experience:
  • Virtual vs. physical presence.
  • Church: A place to see the community of believers.
• Shepherding:
  • Role models in addition to feeding the flock.
  • 1 Peter 5:2-3 highlights importance of examples.

Stewardship and Leadership Transition

• Current theme: Stewardship.
• Key message: We are stewards, not owners.
• Transition of leadership:
  • Announcement of Pastor Jose Carol as new Senior Pastor (effective October 20).
  • Commitment to smooth transition for church health and identity.
• Expectation moving forward:
  • Continued stewardship under God.

Conclusion and Call to Action

• Encouragement to embrace impressions from the Holy Spirit.
• Importance of taking the first step:
  • Zig Ziglar quote: "You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great."
• Final Message:
  • Reflect on the journey of 25 years and look toward the future with faith.
  • Acknowledgment and thanks to the community for their support.