Revolution Church update

Good evening!

I hope you are having a blessed Christmas season. This has been one of reflection and prayer for our family as we prepare for an incredible vision and mission in 2010. We have not made one single gift purchase to this point for the Christmas season and our kids are doing a really good job at keeping the focus on Jesus for this Christmas season.

We are so thankful for our ministry partners for Revolution Church. As Jennifer and I continue to contribute to National Missions to help us reach our first-level goal of $40,000, we have sent 129 letters to family, friends and individuals asking them to partner with us as:

1. A prayer partner
2. A core team or launch team member
3. A financial contributor

Thus far, we are 62 percent of the way to our goal - but that is based on some projections of giving that still need to come in. We need you to pray that God continues to open the hearts of some wonderful people to partner with us. Some may give one dollar; others have the potential to do so much more - on into the thousands, as we have received some large gifts already.

But we cannot sign our ministry contract until this goal is reached, so December is an EXTREMELY CRITICAL month for us.

We can make it, God can do it and we thank you for praying and partnering with us!

Pastor K

White House Football Banquet - Live Blog

The following is a blog from the White House football banquet for our fans. If you are a ministry partner for Revolution Church, please disregard this post.

Thanks!....Pastor K

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Sunday, December 13, 2009
White House High School Football Banquet
WHHS Cafeteria

The banquet began at 3 p.m. with opening statements from head coach Jeff Porter and Pastor Kris Freeman, with the invocation led by Pastor Jonathan Finch of Temple Baptist Church.

The meal was served to all guests and Coach Jim Grantham opened with a thanks of the Cafeteria Staff.

The awards presentation:

THE BLUE DEVIL NETWORK (Randy Cline and Lee Smith)
The following awards were voted upon by the Blue Devil Sports Network and presented during the banquet. Each week's award is voted upon during the broadcast and the player of the year is presented today.
Week 1: Bryan Dixon
Week 2: Zack Byrd
Week 3: Kevin Jackson
Week 4: Jonathan Duke
Week 6: Trent McEwen
Week 7: Cole Elrod
Week 8: Aussie Light
Week 9: Walt Wages
Week 10: Tyler Davis
Week 11: Cody Adair
Player of the Year: Zack Byrd (Linebacker #32) - "Overall, the kind of White House football player we are looking for. Career 245 tackles rnaking him 8th all-time at White House. This season, 106 tackles, 16 tackles against Sycamore is the sixth best in White House history for one game. Five games with double digits. Second-longest INT return in White House history. On offense, led the running game as starting fullback. Our 2009 Player of the Year, Zack Byrd."

THE BLUE DEVIL ADVOCATE AWARD (DeWayne McDaniel)
The following award is selected by Blue Devil football historian DeWayne McDaniel, the author and creator of The Blue Devil Advocate newsletter.
"The award generally goes to the player's character. As such, this award is earned not presented. The winner through his attitudes and actions has brought nothing but pride to his team, his pride and his family. I don't know this young man personally, I don't think I could pick him out of the crowd. It's the anonymity that deals with the offensive linemen. Without your offensive linemen, you will not have success. From everything I have heard from fans, Coach Porter, and Mr. Cordell, this young man is well deserving of this award. I salute the winner of this year's award:"
The Blue Devil Advocate Award: Jacob Knight (Tight end, #88)

Reflections
By Eddie Ray Anderson, Blue Devils public address announcer
"Potential has to be worked to do something with it. I am not talking about this year's team. They fulfilled their potential by facing setbacks, adversity and injuries and still kept their head up and kept going. There is always a possibility that next year will not be that way. What we hope next year's team not only has great potential, but great success. Next year's team has the potential to be very successful. Choose your role models, work hard and be successful so that we can be here in January next year instead of December."

FRESHMAN AWARDS

The following awards were voted upon by the players of the 2009 freshman team. Presented by head coach Ryan Hamilton and assistants Joe Draper, Chad Broadrick, Shane McDonald, DeWayne Dotson.
All freshmen were recognized in numerical order and given their "WH" letter for the jacket.

Offensive Player of the Year (presented by Coach Shane McDonald): Chris Mullins (Quarterback, #7)

Defensive Player of the Year (presented by Coach Chad Broadrick): Bryce Bumbalough (Defensive Lineman, #74)

Most Valuable Player (presented by Coach Ryan Hamilton): Grant Wicker (QB/TB/DB, #9)

ACADEMIC AWARD (Athletic Director and Assistant Principal Jeff Bennett)
"This award is given to a senior football player who has exemplified themselves as a student athlete. We have a young man who has a perfect grade point average and scored a 35 on his ACT and has never received a B."
Academic Award: Jacob Lamberth

GEORGE C. NASH CITIZEN'S AWARD (Principal Jeff Cordell)
"This man is a graduate of White House High School and he knows everything there is to know about White House High School football. He is also our number one fan and he does not miss a game and on the 50 yard line every game."
G.C. Nash Citizen's Award: DeWayne McDaniel

QUARTERBACK CLUB AWARD (QB Club President Keith O'Neal)
"On August 2nd, 54 football players, 19 hours and two hours of sleep. Lots of food, team building, 14 decisions, eight to receive Christ for the first time and six recommitments. This led to a revival with a service of over 700 people and this spread to two other schools and 24 other conversions. This would not have been possible without someone willing to serve and be obedient. I want to thank this person for their willingness to give back to these young men and this program."
Quarterback Club Award: Jonathan Finch

Coach Porter recognized the sophomores in numerical order.

Coach Porter gave special thanks to community and football program supporters.

ERIC BLAYLOCK SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD (Coach Mark Lamberth)
This award is presented in memory of the late Eric Blaylock, a former White House High School football player in the 1980s. This award is given to a person who cares more about other people than themselves. This individual is the first to congratulate someone else on their success. This award is voted upon by the players.
Eric Blaylock Sportsmanship Award: Jacob Lamberth and Ryan O'Neal

DEFENSIVE BACK AWARD (Coach Jim Grantham)
This includes linebackers, safeties and cornerbacks. This award is voted upon by the players.
Defensive Back Award: Zack Byrd

DEFENSIVE LINEMAN AWARD (Coach James Honeycutt
This includes defensive tackles and defensive ends. This award is voted upon by the players.
Defensive Lineman Award: Aussie Light and Jonathan Duke

SCOUT TEAM AWARD (Coach DeWayne Dotson)
This includes all players and is given to a player who best exemplifies work ethic in practice and preparation for each week's game. This award is voted upon by the players.
Scout Team Award: Caleb West

OFFENSIVE BACK AWARD (Coach Ryan Hamilton)
This includes quarterbacks, fullbacks, tailbacks and receivers. This award is voted upon by the players.
Offensive Back Award: Trent McEwen

OFFENSIVE LINEMAN AWARD (Coach Mark Lamberth)
This includes offensive tackles, offensive guards and tight ends. This award is voted upon by the players.
Offensive Lineman Award: Walt Wages

SULLY AWARD (Principal Jeff Cordell)
This is a new award in 2009, given in honor of Cody and Cory Sullins, who played at White House from 2001-04 and then walked on at the University of Tennessee as offensive linemen before becoming starting offensive linemen for the Vols by their senior year in 2009, and will graduate as four-time members of the All-SEC Academic Team.
Sully Award: Joey Smith

WAYNE GOURLEY AWARD (Coach Jim Grantham)
This award is given to a football player who best exemplifies the utmost in character, work ethic and commitment. This person strives always to commit all they have to the team. He exemplifies the hustle, desire and dedication of the true athlete. This is not an award of popularity, but of tribute. This award is voted upon by the players.
Gourley Award: Cody Adair

MOST VALUABLE PLAYER (Head coach Jeff Porter)
This award is voted upon by the players.
MVP: Bryan Dixon

TEAM CAPTAINS
Each year, the players elect two permanent team captains.
Team Captains: Aussie Light and Zack Byrd

Juniors were recognized in numerical order.

Senior were recognized in numerical order and gave closing comments.

The following devotional appears in the Dec. 14, 2009 edition of The Bargain Browser/The Connection in White House, TN.

Visit the official site at http://www.browserconnection.com


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Surprise – it’s Actually Free

I am a people watcher. I could sit on a park bench and just pay attention to those around me for hours. Unfortunately, none of us have that time unless our wives take too long in the grocery store.

Be a good husband, and shop for her or with her. That is what I am supposed to say.

This past Saturday, Jennifer and I participated with 14 others from our small group in an event for The Gift Revolution, a pay-it-forward concept designed to spread the good news of Jesus Christ through servant kindness during the Christmas season. We set up shop outside the largest retailer in White House and handed out free hot chocolate and apple cider in freezing temps.

You would think this is an easy concept. People-watching tells a different story. We did have a great response, but perhaps more surprising are the skeptical views of many who passed by.

Some hurried across the sidewalk in a blur, never turning an eye. Others waved their hand at us, irritated. A few more gave us the “we’re not giving you any money” glance, and some even dug out their wallets, only for us to stop them and hand them something to drink.

The hot chocolate and apple cider were free for a reason. It was a gift/kindness, we had no strings attached other than to pass along a Gift Revolution card, which takes them to a website where they can share their story about Jesus.

What a shame – our worldview is so skewed by skepticism and doubt that we are by nature analytical. We believe that every act has a catch – and perhaps this did, too. But before your nature takes hold, be reminded that some passers by simply took the cup and never took the card or said a word. In those cases, you give what you have regardless of how it’s received. There was never an obligation.

As we work for Jesus Christ, be careful to never neglect what was so freely given to us. The Bible says that “we are saved by grace through faith, that not of yourselves it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). As a Christian, I believe we should be obedient to God’s Word as a follower of Christ – but what is required to follow Him has already been paid. Jesus died for it.

You can’t earn it, can’t buy it, can’t talk your way into it. Salvation is a free gift. Open the box, and let God revolutionize your life. Then you might find that serving Him doesn’t feel like an obligation, but rather an opportunity.

Be blessed!

Kris Freeman is a pastor and church planter with General Baptist National Missions. Revolution Church launches in White House and Cross Plains in the fall of 2010. For more, go to .

New Revolution Church promo video for General Baptist National Missions! Check it out!

Revolution Church - Coming to White House and Cross Plains from Kris Freeman on Vimeo.

Be blessed!

Pastor K

Have a Thankful Spirit - Devotional Nov. 25, 2009

The following devotional appears in The Connection, a publication of The Bargain Browser in White House, TN.

http://www.browserconnection.com

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Practical Faith with Pastor K

Have a Thankful Spirit

The fifth chapter of Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians contains some brilliant, practical application of faith.

But putting into practice what the Bible says is often harder than it looks, because real-life situations are both tempting and full of trial that counters everything we know about doing the right thing.

Here, however, Paul gives us insight how we handle those tough situations – with a thankful spirit. In fact, in First Thessalonians 5:18, he says “in everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

As you read, you may be thinking that sounds good in theory but doesn’t make sense in a tough economic time, during sickness, job loss, a hurtful relationship or uncertainty of purpose or place. To learn to be thankful in the toughest moment is to learn the truth of how blessed we are.

God loves you immensely. Some do not choose to return that love to Him, nor accept the sacrificial gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. Others take great boasting in God’s blessing and beg for Him to come through when they need Him most, but seldom take time to thank Him.

I have my share of tough moments, and this week has been a difficult one for a variety of reasons. Everyone has those days, right? But what kind of thankful spirit do we possess when we’re digging our way out of the pity-party pits?

So I have dedicated the next few lines to what I am thankful for: my wonderful wife Jennifer, who works hard every day so our family can have health insurance and is God’s perfect match for me. We have been married over 11 years. I have two incredible children, Madison and Noah, who are smarter than their dad and constantly bring joy to our home.

God has blessed me with 19 years of my health following a diagnosis of type-one diabetes in high school, and I pray every day for the healing He has the power to accomplish. I have a great extended family and God gave me the chance to return home to Sumner County after seven years in another state, and has surrounded us with a great team of people ready to launch a brand new church and reach people for Jesus.

And after writing just two paragraphs of what I’m thankful for, it doesn’t seem this week is as tough after all. Thankfulness will always change your perspective and I challenge you to start making a list, and watch what happens.

Remember, in everything give thanks for this is what God desires for you.

Be blessed!

Pastor Kris Freeman is a church planter with General Baptist National Missions. Revolution Church will launch in White House and Cross Plains in fall, 2010. For more information, visit www.myrevolutionchurch.com .

Do the Right Thing - Devotional Nov. 10, 2009

The following devotional appears each week in The Bargain Browser/The Connection in White House, TN:

Practical Faith with Pastor K

Do the Right Thing…

Character is best measured when no one is looking. For the Christian, however, there is faith that we are never alone and God is always paying attention.

While Paul is clear in Ephesians 2:8-9 that our works will not save us; rather we are “saved by grace, through faith, not of works, lest any man should boast,” I am confident that if you are a follower of Christ, God expects you to be obedient to His Word and be a good person.

He is not judging your salvation according to your works, for we would never measure up. Without the saving grace of Jesus, none of us can get to Heaven. But I have reasoned that God desires for me to live the best life I can live for Him;, I am called to overcome bad things by holding on to what is good (Romans 12).

This is harder than it looks. Living your faith is tested when you are behind the wheel and a driver makes a bad decision in front of you, or when life is unfair, and you feel to be getting the short end of the stick. It’s hard when the person checking out in front of you holds up the line, the train makes you late for work, or your kid spills ketchup on the back seat driving down the interstate. Maybe a co-worker tells another of your troubles without your permission, or a friend gossips behind your back. Your boss is mean, your money is tight or your marriage is struggling. Worse yet, the doctor may say he cannot save you and it doesn’t seem like God is listening.

Now while character often arises in adversity, so does fault. We make mistakes and let down our guard when we struggle. God has a promise in His Word that is so incredible, and so practical, I feel compelled to share with you. Whatever you fight at this very moment, hold to this truth and keep your head up:

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also may the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

Don’t let down your faith when you are tested. God will always come through and while you wait on His time, be a person of good character and strive to always do the right thing.

Be blessed!

Pastor Kris Freeman is a church planter with General Baptist National Missions. Revolution Church will launch in White House and Cross Plains in fall, 2010. For more information, visit www.myrevolutionchurch.com .

Seven-day Fasting

Good evening,

Tomorrow morning I will begin a seven-day fasting period for the vision of Revolution Church. I am praying for opportunities to share the vision and for ministry partners to join with us so that we can meet our first-level goals by January. If you would like to join with me, please leave a comment here or on Facebook to let me know, and then fast at a meal or snack time for seven days beginning Monday through next Sunday, and watch the amazing things God does through faithful and fervent prayer.

Be blessed, and thanks for prayer warriors!

Pastor Kris

Here is a scripture to help you:

Isaiah 58:5-9
5 Is it a fast that I have chosen, A day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush, And to spread out sackcloth and ashes Would you call this a fast, And an acceptable day to the LORD?
6 Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?
8 Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. 9 Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’

Revolution Church - 60-second promo video

Good afternoon!

Check out our first promo video for Revolution Church. Thanks to Dustin T. for the help!

http://www.vimeo.com/7340430



Be blessed!

Pastor K

No Time for Boating (Weekly Devotional)

Here is a copy of my weekly devotional to The Connection in White House, TN - the local newspaper. Be blessed!

Pastor K

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As published in The Connection on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009

No Time for Boating
By Pastor Kris Freeman
In the middle of uncertainty, are you tempted to return to your boat?

Peter was a person like many of us. While devoted to Christ as his apostle, Peter was stubborn, brash, bold, and hard-headed. He was not afraid to argue and willing to fight for what he believed. In many ways, Peter was a guy you’d want in your corner – faithful, but must be kept in tight reign.

And where did Jesus find him? He was fishing, in a boat, working, frustrated at his catch. But this decision to follow Christ did not erase Peter’s personality. He worked to overcome his struggles the entire time Jesus was on earth.
It seems that each struggle involved Peter and his comfort zone – the boat. The boat here is metaphoric; what thing have you left behind that in your toughest moments you cling to or return?

After a night of empty fishing, Jesus asked Peter to recast his nets, and so many fish came aboard it was breaking them. Peter had to leave the boat when Jesus promised to make his disciples “fishers of men.” Peter stepped out of the boat when during the night, he saw Jesus walking on water. His faith was challenged when he saw the wind and waves and began to sink, only as Jesus saved him, asking “Peter, where is your faith? Why did you doubt?”

The greatest struggle of Peter’s life, however, sent him right back to the boat. As Jesus was captured, Peter cut off the ear of a guard and tried to fight for Jesus, only to be rebuked and watch the man healed. In the courtyard on three occasions, Peter was recognized as a follower of Christ and denied it. He even cursed one who asked him. When Jesus was crucified, imagine the shame as Peter returned to his boat and went out to fish.

“Simon Peter said to them, I am going fishing. They said to him, we are going with you also. They went out immediately and got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing.” (John 21:3 NKJV)

The resurrected Christ appeared on the shore. They listened as he instructed them to cast their nets on the other side and find a huge catch. When John told Peter, it was Jesus, he jumped out and swam to the shore, where Christ asked him three times if he loved him – and opposite of his denial, Peter upheld his devotion.

In the Old Testament, Jonah found the convenience of a boat when running from God. Peter returned to the security of his boat following his mistake. The boat itself is not the evil; rather there is temptation to run from your calling when you hurt. Like Jonah and Peter, you will likely rock the boat and find no comfort in it.

Be strong in faith that in tough moments, Christ has never left you; never forsaken you. He will always be there and through the power of the Holy Spirit, goes with you every day.

Don’t sit in the boat, pouting away your sorrows, or return to your past to find comfort in what you left behind. The Savior is not asking you to paddle away your sin; be faithful, forgiven, rise above it and walk on water.

Pastor Kris Freeman is a church planter with General Baptist National Missions. Revolution Church, reaching White House and Cross Plains, will launch in September, 2010. For more information, visit www.myrevolutionchurch.com .

Building update...

Good afternoon,

Things move fast in church planting and yesterday was a big day. I met with a commercial property owner and realtor in White House for the possibility of leasing his facility for our church plant. It was very exciting and I was up half the night imagining possibilities for remodeling the inside to make it our home.

The building is 6,000 square feet and includes four rooms which could easily be converted to children's facilities. It has a great entry point which would be ideal for checking in children and entering the warehouse, which will become our primary auditorium. The space is large enough both to seat what we need initially and also construct a welcome area at the back of the meeting room.

The open warehouse floor has a 22-foot high ceiling. The front of the building is brick faced and nicely done, the back is a metal warehouse and in good exterior shape. The inside would need a lot of drapery and covering to give us the ideal look we desire, but after watching the set up of some successful church plants, we can make this work easy.

The warehouse does have an interior office in the middle of the floor, but we're going to go Extreme Home Makeover and just tear the thing down. Demolition is fun! This will open the warehouse floor symmetrically.

Finally, the building has 22 parking spaces in front and the side, but contains a fenced one-acre lot in the back which we have permission to gravel and turn into a large lot. The exterior sign of the building is brick columns with a wooden insert, so we can make our own 6 x 4 sign and drop it in.

Prime location on the north side of town on Highway 31-W puts us in a great marketing and advertising position. We have budgeted for facilities and this is within our budget. We are very excited and though the agreement is tentative it appears we have a working arrangement well on its way. Don't stop praying!

I am speaking soon at local churches in Adairville, KY and Portland, TN. I would love to come to your church and share about the vision and mission for Revolution Church.

Thanks for checking out our update. Be Jesus to someone today and live blessed!

Live, love, serve in the name of Jesus!

Pastor K

New website launched

I'm working with iWeb and tinkering with the new website design. All I have loaded is the home page. Check it out. Simple, but coming together.

http://www.myrevolutionchurch.com


Be blessed!

Pastor K

Don't you just hate it when...

Your wife bites your head off? Man, I think I finally stepped over the line!

HA!



Be blessed!

Pastor K

We are truth bearers in a tough generation

What an awesome week of training in Tampa, FL with Church Planting Dynamics. I have been doing a lot of reading since I returned home, and my first book is When God Builds A Church by Pastor Bob Russell, retired of Southeast Christian in Louisville, KY.

There is a strong temptation to water down the truth in our modern church environment. Build big buildings, be attractive, reach the community - but through it all the tendency is to compromise the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The reality is, all of those things can be accomplished while still ministering in the power of the Holy Spirit and proclaiming the salvation message of Jesus.

No matter how much the world changes, the answer still lies within the life-changing message of Jesus Christ!

Here's a good thought for you from Principle 1: Truth in Bob Russell's book, pages 18-19:

"There are times in every church when the leaders are tempted to water down the truth. There will be influential people you want to accommodate. There will be brilliant, likable theological liberals you want to impress. There will be arrogant, angry conservatives you wish you could debate, because even though you may agree with their stance, you hate their demeanor. There will be seekers and believers you won't want to alienate by taking an unpopular stand on a controversial issue.
Despite the real temptation to say just what itching ears want to hear or to say nothing at all, it is imperative that the church be a place where the truth is unashamedly proclaimed. As Paul said, 'if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle.' (1 Cor. 14:8)"

Stand for Jesus and don't compromise the truth! Be blessed!

Pastor K

Time to get home!

Jen and I are sitting in the Tampa airport sipping on some Starbucks (Terrell would be proud) waiting to board the flight home and see our babies. It's been a long week so here are some initial thoughts and first reactions about what we learned:

KRIS:

- Excellent churches are built from the inside out, not the outside in
- It's amazing what can happen when you combine excellence in service with an incredible God
- Effective systems make effective churches (volunteers learning to worship when they serve)
- Gary Baldus and the staff at New Walk Church are awesome
- Church planting is going to be a tremendous challenge, but how awesome is it going to be to see people come to Jesus
- Steve Gray knows how to get me to lose my temper (enjoy it, big fella)
- Worshipping volunteers are happy volunteers
- Every church plant needs set up coordinator who looks like he's had too much caffeine and sugar (we love ya Matt!)
- It's going to take a team to make it work. The vision inspires people and people inspire service.
- I get really ill when someone pulls the fire alarm and evacuates the hotel at midnight
- My biggest leadership strength is my belief and self-assurance (*that's not self-confidence) (StrengthFinder 2.0)
- Know who you are in Jesus no matter what comes your way
- Know the timeline...don't miss key dates and opportunities
- Surround yourself with people who believe in the vision. Don't be afraid to ask someone to move on if they don't
- Be aware of agenda hijackers
- Listen to the discernment of the Holy Spirit in all things - more than you listen to people
- Thank those who invest in the vision
- Always be positive to your volunteers...don't ask for help, champion them with opportunity!
- Take the blame, share the credit
- General Baptists have one of the highest success rates among church planting groups in the U.S.
- My buddy Vince has the best Flippin church in Arkansas (*the town is called "Flippin" and that's the inside joke)
- I'm excited about getting the church planting coaching process started with Freedom

JENNIFER
- Watching success versus failure...it's easy to spot the difference. A focus on Jesus and excellent systems
- You have to be sold out and have faith or you will not succeed
- Shawn says lots of meds and lots of chocolates

We have a lot of new information to process and some great resources. It's time to get started. Invest with us in launching the Revolution - Fall 2010 in White House and Cross Plains!

Be blessed!

Pastor K

An effective assimilation system

Church planting training is an awesome process.

Effective churches with healthy ministries are built on effective systems. For example, New Walk Church and Pastor Gary Baldus use eight systems in the structure of a very successful church.

Author Nelson Searcy's book "Fusion" is the best on the market (in my opinion) at one of those eight systems: the process of Assimilation. That's a big word; you may have never used it before. So let's put it in simple words to understand.

What is the process a church takes reach people as first-time guests and move them into a mature relationship with Christ as a member of the church or the servant ministry? In other words, how do we take the person in the community who has no exposure to the church and effectively bring them into the doors for the first time, draw them back a second time, and eventually lead to transformational and incarnational life change through Jesus Christ? As this happens, they are plugged in, discipled and eventually recycle the process by investing the same in someone new.

Churches have many kinds of assimilation systems which incorporate dynamic elements: welcoming, hospitality, worship connection, small groups, children's ministry, follow-up, discipleship, etc.

So my question posed is this:

1. For those currently serving in the church, what effective systems do you employ to assimilate new people into your church? What works, and what are your struggles?

2. When this process happened with you, what were the most effective and productive things to bring you along in this process? When you met Jesus and your life was radically changed by Him, how did the church reach you and help you grow into ministry?

There is much debate in the modern church about how we minister to the unchurched. Attractiveness should never replace Biblical principles; in fact it should be modeled by them and utilized to connect and assimilate your culture and community in the best possible way.

No system is perfect, your vision and your community helps define what works.

Jesus is perfect, and it's our job to fulfill the Great Commission, and an essential part of it is reaching, teaching and growing new believers in all the world.

How are you doing it, and what did a church do that launched this process in you? Post the comments to the blog or my Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/krisfreeman .

Discuss, and invest it in someone you know. Let's be kingdom builders.

Be blessed!

Pastor K

What does a Revolution look like?

(A portion of the following post will appear in the GB National Missions Voice and the General Baptist Messenger this fall)

Visit the online home of Revolution Church

What does a revolution look like?

In the small, rural areas near White House, Tennessee, the revolution of a community has painted its own picture for the last 20 years with an explosion of growth and infusion of young families.

Once a rural town where everyone knew the neighbors by name, it has blossomed into an attractive location for business professionals and commuters working in Nashville and Bowling Green, KY. Targeted for its location, excellent school systems and local business structure, families moved in at a population growth rate of 125 percent since 1990.

In 2010, the transformation continues with the welcoming of a new church through General Baptist National Missions. Revolution Church launches in September in White House and Cross Plains.

Pastor Kris Freeman with his wife, Jennifer, and children, Madison and Noah, moved there in May after serving Pleasant Union GB Church in Lewisburg, KY, for almost seven years. Kris and Jen completed National Missions Assessment and are enrolled in High Impact Church Plant Training.

“We are so thankful God has opened the door for us to return to Sumner County and follow His calling for local and community missions,” Kris explained. “The vision He has given us for church planting is both exciting and challenging, and He has surrounded us with a team of talented and hungry people with a heart for missions and reaching the world for Jesus.”

Revolution Church will target White House and its surrounding area, specifically along I-65 at Cross Plains near exit 112. With a heart for servant evangelism and the touch of a personal witness, Revolution Church is focused on reaching families and building a solid foundation for transformational worship and community mission.

In 2 Corinthians 6:1-10, Paul – who experienced one of the greatest personal revolutions in history – reminds us to “in every way show that we are servants of God.” Scripture is clear, “HE CALLS” us to a revolution to:
• Hear the Gospel through relevant teaching
• Evangelize as an expert of your personal story
• Care in mercy and compassion
• Activate the gifts of God in you
• Live daily in worship
• Love God and others as ourselves
• Serve the community and the world in missions

“Things around us are changing rapidly and that includes our local community,” Kris shared. “God has called us to take a step of faith into a new journey to reach a world hungry for hope and answers. It’s up to us to shape ministry to reach that world for Jesus. We’re thankful for pastors, leaders, churches and families who believe in that vision and are willing to partner with us for the future.”

There are big challenges for 2010. The Freemans are beginning training with General Baptist High Impact in Tampa, FL, from Sept. 29-Oct. 5, 2009. In addition, Pastor K will continue sharing and casting vision for church planting in churches through the south and midwest during the fall.

To begin the church's budgeting process in January 2010, Pastor Kris and Jen are raising $40,000 of investment capital through the cooperative efforts of local churches and partners in ministry. If you would like to know more about partnering with the church plant or General Baptist National Missions, please contact Kris soon!

Kris and Jen are also continuing to assemble a ministry core team to prepare for launch services next fall. If you are in the Sumner County area and would like to be a part of the team, contact them immediately to get started!

For more information on how you can pray for, support and partner with Revolution Church through the National Missions “Synergy” program, visit www.myrevolutionchurch.com – or contact Kris at 615-881-9969 or pastorkrisfreeman@att.net to set up a time to share the vision with your local church.

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Be blessed!

Pastor K

A new adventure!

Good evening,

I was sitting tonight listening to a sermon preached by a friend of mine, so while he is speaking about the Lord, let me update you on all the wonderful (and rapidly changing) things taking place in our lives.

Jennifer and I have been blessed to be a part of a church family at Pleasant Union General Baptist Church in Lewisburg, KY for almost seven years. On August 30, 2009, we will complete our time serving the Lord in that community and church as we follow the next step of God's calling for what we hope is the rest of our lives.

In February, 2009, we attended the General Baptist National Missions assessment center for church planting, and following our approval began the steps of transition into a new ministry for 2010. This required a move, and on Memorial Day weekend we bought a house in White House, TN, and moved closer to the place where both of us were raised in Sumner County.

We have also accepted the partnership with the newest association in the General Baptist family, Genesis Association, and will be planting a church in Tennessee that will launch (tentatively) Sept. 12, 2010. Praise the Lord! We are being connected with some great people who will be serving with us in this exciting venture as we reach people in a brand new world with the Jesus that is the same yesterday, today and forever! It's a Revolution of ministry (more to come about that later!)

Things have been very busy at church, however, as we transition our time at Pleasant Union. We are blessed to have felt the wonderful love and support of many of our church family and though it is sad to have to leave, we are so thankful for the friendships we have developed that can last forever. We are thankful for those who will pray for and support us in our new ministry.

In the meantime, we are taking a HUGE step on faith. I have been in full-time ministry for almost 10 years, and at the end of August, I will get the opportunity to have a different view of things for a change. I will be substitute teaching at White House High School in September through the end of the year thanks to my good friends Principal Jeff Cordell and head coach Jeff Porter. I will be training with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as a Character Coach and continue my work as a volunteer staff member of the Blue Devils football team. And I hope to help my buddy Drew in the local media and with his screen printing. So it's a mix and match, but we are trusting the Lord to open the doors for us to continue our ministry transition.

We will be training with General Baptist National Missions at the end of September in Tampa, FL, and we also will get the opportunity to continue to work with the great folks at Freedom Church in Gallatin, TN, where we have been attending on Saturday night since November.

Finally, I hope to get an opportunity to share our vision with you. If you are a church pastor, or part of a local church family, we'd love for the opportunity to share with you how you can partner with us in prayer and support as we prepare for a great adventure in the kingdom of God!

In January (tentatively) we plan to begin full-time ministry work with GB National Missions as a church planter for 2010 with director Stephen Gray and a partnership with many local churches and Genesis Association.

So there's a quick update. I have lots of folks to thank, and lots of time to be thankful and humble.

Most of all, I thank my Savior Jesus Christ for dying on the cross for me.

I'm excited, saddened, scared, fired up, impatient, patient, determined, dedicated, can't wait, slowing down, speeding up and unsure yet confident! How's that for an awesome emotion!

God's going to do a great work through His people! Let's start a Revolution in 2010 and I look forward to hearing from you how you can be a part of it.

Live, love, communicate and worship in the name of Jesus!

Pastor K

P.S. I have a new cell number, if you don't have it, send me a message through email, FB, Twitter, etc. and I'll get it to you.

What is he thinking?

Photo by Sarah Hughson
Sunday, June 28, 2009

I realize my son is in this picture, but I hope you would agree that this is an incredible photo! Wow, what a perspective. And to know what was going through his head.

He's my little associate pastor...you just have to be there to understand it.

Be blessed and enjoy!

"Daddy" K

My Jesus is "Faithful and True"

"The way to see by faith is to shut the eye of reason." - Benjamin Franklin

I have no context to the above quote, but it sure caught my attention. Today at Pleasant Union, we talked about being true and faithful. We are the bride of Christ, and in finishing our series on Relationships, we modeled our marriage relationships after the covenant between Christ and the church.

In Ephesians chapter five, God gives the order and structure for the marital relationship, reminding us how we treat our spouse should mirror how Christ loves the church and gave himself for it. There is no doubt we are called to be faithful and true to one another, and to him.

This brought us Sunday night to the final four chapters of Revelation. We took a quick run through the scriptures, reading all of chapters 19, 21 and 22. Three times, John was reminded to write for "these words are true and faithful." But that phrase was also mentioned a fourth time in scripture: it was the proper name "Faithful and True" attributed to Jesus as he appears riding the white horse and ready to conquer evil for all time.

Reason causes us to think, and that is a good thing. But be careful that our faith is not so constrained by philosophical reason that we lose the essence and the power of what faith really is: faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Can I prove everything the Bible says about God? No, but that is the power of my faith. It is my choice, my belief and my testimony. I have the right, responsibility and privilege of telling my story and being faithful and true to what God has done for me. But how I perceive God is based solely on matching my life experiences with His Word and trusting Him to fulfill His promises. That is faith, and when I see His promises come to pass, I can know that they are true.

I shut the eye of reason with faith when I see God keep His Word. When He tells us to "test Me in this, and see if I will not open the windows of Heaven and pour out a blessing, so that there will not be room enough to receive it," He is issuing a challenge to our faith, stewardship and obedience. And God always comes through. Tonight, he came through 30-fold for me. Thirty-fold! A simple offering of faith, he multiplied in return to me by 30 times, from an unexpected and unassuming source, no doubt! Praise the Lord!

I shut the eye of reason with faith when I see God act in His Word. When He tells us to "bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ," He challenges us to help others through life's toughest battles. I see people rise to the opportunity and do things beyond their reach and outside their means, but God by His grace provides and blesses both the burdened and the one who bears it.

I shut the eye of reason with faith when I see God heal with His Word. When He tells us "I am the God that heals you" and "by His stripes are we healed," He challenges us to call on Him in our time of deepest need. I see God release addiction, break bondage of sin (and what a spiritual sickness it is) and set people free who are captive to chains of poor health that doctors have no key. This is the power of a Mighty God who alters reports, confounds the wisest of physicians and heals the harshest of disease all in a blink of His eye that cost Him no effort. And I see my faith strengthened when families and friends pray and it appears God doesn't hear because the disease never parts on earth, but in Revelation 21 He promises a healing so great that death, pain and sorrow will never come again.

I shut the eye of reason with faith when I see children believe in Him greater than adults ever could. When I hear my daughter singing in the car on the way home, I hear the power of the Holy Spirit coming through in her simple words - words she is making up to the tune of FFH's "Fly Away." And then I read Revelation 19 and realize every word she said, God promised to do.

I am not interested in arguing about reason. I have heard all the philosophical and scientific arguments to cast doubt on the validity of scripture and its infallibility in today's modern world. But He told John, "write, for these words are true and faithful." And I believe that, every word, even the mysteries of scripture I cannot explain, the tough translational phrasing I can't comprehend and the powerful promises I have yet to see.

"For the preaching of the cross is foolishness to those who perish, but unto us which are saved, it is the power of God."

I kind of like that, and I believe it.

Be true to Him, and He will be true to you. He does, because He is faithful.

It's OK if you don't believe in my Jesus - as long as you understand that while you are searching for answers, He still believes in you.

Be blessed!

Pastor K

Sometimes, people make big mistakes

Good morning,

This morning I woke up to a scary, nasty set of messages through my inbox called "your payment has been returned." Immediately, all the signals went off in my head. Was there an error? Did someone steal my identity? Did someone steal my money? Did my wife write a bunch of bad checks to buy shoes (OK, that one's a joke).

The truth was, we recently began the process of changing banks and through our new institution, received checks with new account and routing numbers. The problem was, however, that the new checks had someone else's closed account number on them and not ours. Being a new account, we didn't know that until it was too late and by then, at least two checks and one online payment had been returned unpaid.

Later this evening after work, I will get my first introduction to the bad check department at the nation's largest retailer. With a new check in hand (corrected) and a letter from the corporate office of the bank, I'm praying to be removed from the list of bad check writers which are rejected by their system. Needless to say, I am a little embarrassed and also tempted to be pretty angry at the same time.

So then I considered how the Lord would want me to handle this. Have I ever made a mistake? Absolutely, all of us have. Someone at the corporate headquarters made a terrible error in printing these checks. The local branch has the right account number and they are both apologetic and regretful, but it was truthfully out of their hands.

My favorite book of the Bible is Luke. He was a physician and his writing about the poor and suffering proves he had an incredible compassion for those in need. He also reminded us of the direct words of Jesus in Luke 6:37: "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven."

Those words refused to leave my mind this morning as I read all those terrible messages and heard a helpless bank employee apologize to me for something she didn't do. The money is there, the account numbers will be corrected and they have written letters to ensure each of the businesses I paid do not hold me responsible.

But if I hold unforgiveness or maintain sinful anger and resentment against them, am I really any better than the person who made a mistake? No, in fact, I'm worse. Maybe I would feel different if they cost me thousands of dollars or destroyed my credit. But even then, though the test might be tougher, the same principle still applies. People make mistakes and when it's made right, we need to forgive.

This is called grace: Merit for something we do not deserve. A second chance when we haven't earned it. Another opportunity when we mess up the first one. I guess I could call all my buddies, bad mouth the bank, report them to the BBB, complain and write nasty things online, or I could simply say "someone messed up, and let them fix it and make it right."

That seems so much easier.

And now I just pray that the bad check police don't come and whisk me away the next time I check out at the big supercenter which shall not be named. Jesus would forgive them, I must forgive the bank and hopefully with the letter, they will forgive me.

That's what Jesus would do. Of course, they'd probably take a check from him without asking any questions...

Have a blessed day...and forgive others!

Pastor K

The Real Deal

Good afternoon,

I've met a lot of disingenuous people. In fact, you and I deal with them every day no matter what we do. But when this happens in ministry, it's really discouraging to think that people who represent the body of Christ could act or behave in such a way that is contrary to Jesus.

But rather than be dragged down by those who mess it up, let me focus on those who do it right. Over four years ago, I met a man in ministry who has now become a best friend, a mentor, a right-hand man, and a prayer partner - all because he chose to be genuine, and do it the right way. To love people like Jesus called us to, that is the true call.

Pastor Garry Mitchell was preaching a revival in Smiths Grove, KY. I'll never forget going by that afternoon with my friend Pastor Jimmie to Garry's home - the infamous "Barndominium" in Oakland, KY. There he was, unassuming, sitting barefooted in the swing reading his Bible. We had a short conversation and prayed and then I visited Jimmie's church that night for an awesome service. The power of the Holy Spirit to minister to my needs that night was miraculous and remarkable, and it began a great friendship.

Over the past five years, I have spoken to, studied with, argued with, prayed with, brainstormed, aggravated, bounced ideas off, picked apart, been accountable and completely revolutionized the way I think about ministry with this man for about five days a week. As a minister, you drive a lot, so when he was driving his truck and I was on the way to the hospital, it was an easy thing to pick up the phone.

And THANK GOD FOR SHARED MINUTES or I would have had to take out a second mortgage with AT&T.

But here's what's amazing. He always had time. The guy has like 472 pastors in his phone directory (or so it seems). And he never once cared any more about one or the other to invest in their ministry. Like my greatest college professor, he challenged me to think, to act and not react, to love people and to revolutionize the way I interact with those who need to know Jesus. He's genuine.

I often would ask myself when I first met him...why does he care that much about me and the ministry that God has for me? There has to be a catch. This dude has to have a hitch. Something, surely, is going to change later. But it didn't. He's transparent, he's real and let me tell you, far from perfect and not afraid to admit it.

So for all the pastors out there, let me offer you a challenge. Never under any circumstances be disingenuous to those people who lean upon you for spiritual guidance, friendship, trust and ministry. There's way too much competition in our field and not near enough compassion, care and cooperation. Be REAL to people and don't underestimate how you represent Jesus to your peers.

Why did I write this today? Because now I'm on the other side of the fence. Pastor Garry recently had open heart surgery and is recovering and we're praying by the mighty hand of God, he will be all better soon. I've been given the opportunity to speak to his small group for the past three weeks on Monday night and sit in his chair. What a humbling experience. And it's amazing to watch all these people whom he has invested in, give their full attention, respect and trust to me as we lead the group and pray together.

Why? Because he taught them that respect for God's Word and God's man is of the utmost importance. And however you should treat him, is exactly the way you should treat everyone else.

It's really simple. Just kind of act like Jesus. You'll be amazed how well it works and people respond to it.

Get well soon, Reverend. We're praying for you!

Pastor K

P.S. Check out his own blog at http://www.garrymitchellministries.com/

Jerry is a real hero...

This week, the NCAA March Madness explodes onto the scene and we will hear many comments about the heroes of the tournament. The madness will conclude on the first Monday night in April when CBS plays the traditional "One Shining Moment" video montage for the tournament winner.

But for my first post on this blog, let me tell you about a real hero.

He doesn't play basketball, doesn't write a blog, hasn't been on the internet and you can't find him in Google. He's never been famous, won't be featured on the news, and would defer any praise to God, his Heavenly Father.

Jerry Quisenberry is a hero. Why? Because on Wednesday, he survived his THIRD surgery to remove cancerous brain tumors in the last eight years. One hour after the surgery, he was smiling, crying, praising God and running up his blood pressure in the recovery room because he was so happy. And on Thursday, Jerry came home to his small lot adjacent to our church.

That's right, one day after BRAIN SURGERY, he's home and well. Bandaged up, hair gone and sporting another incision. But he didn't return to a hero's welcome, he slowly rode by our house yesterday evening and silently slipped back into the community with little notice.

Jerry's humble, praise-full and always willing to talk about the Lord, Jesus Christ, the savior of his soul. In a world filled with political correctness, we need more heroes like Jerry - who face their days with courage, stand in the stare of disease and sickness, and say with authority, "come and get me, because you can't win."

If you plan to find out more about this hero, you'll leave feeling better about yourself. He'll talk more about you, than he does him. He'll thank you, whether or not you did anything for him. He'll praise God, and you'll just have to like it.

And soon, he's going to be back at church, playing the guitar and giving a testimony about what God has done for him.

That's a hero, and I look forward to his one shining moment soon so everyone can celebrate with him.

Be blessed!

Pastor K