EMBARKING ON CHURCH

Bible Study: EMBARKING ON CHURCH BUILDING PROJECT

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Nehemiah 2:17
"Then I said to them, ‘You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.’"

Supporting Texts:
Matthew 7:24-27
1 Corinthians 3:9-11
Haggai 2:8
Luke 14:28-30
Exodus 36:2-7

INTRODUCTION:
Embarking on a church building project is a significant undertaking that requires vision, faith, planning, and teamwork. It is not merely a physical construction but a spiritual and communal effort to establish a space where God’s people can gather, worship, be trained, and serve. This Bible study examines the principles, responsibilities, and steps involved in starting and completing a church building project, ensuring that it is done with godly wisdom, unity, and stewardship.

1. HAVING A CLEAR VISION FOR THE PROJECT

A successful church building project begins with a clear vision that aligns with God's purposes.

a) God’s Calling to Build: The vision for building should come from God’s prompting and desire to expand His Kingdom and provide a space for His people to grow (Nehemiah 2:17).

b) Setting Clear Objectives: A vision should include the purpose of the building, whether for worship, training, community service, or outreach.

c) Ensuring Alignment with God’s Will: Every aspect of the project, from design to execution, must be aligned with God’s will and not based solely on human desires (Exodus 25:8-9).

d) Vision of Impact: Consider how the church building will affect the community and further the mission of the Church. The vision must be one of expansion, outreach, and service to others.

e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah’s vision to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem was driven by a desire to restore the glory of God and protect His people (Nehemiah 2:17).

2. PLANNING AND PREPARING FOR THE BUILDING PROJECT
Planning is crucial to ensure the successful execution of the church building project.

a) Assessing the Need: Before beginning the project, assess the necessity for the building and its potential impact on the community. This includes evaluating space requirements, location, and long-term goals (Luke 14:28-30).

b) Setting a Budget: A realistic budget is essential for the construction of the church building. Consider all expenses including land, materials, labour, permits, and unexpected costs (Exodus 36:2-7).

c) Engaging the Right Experts: Seek the guidance of architects, engineers, and construction managers to ensure that the building is structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing (1 Corinthians 3:9-11).

d) Legal and Financial Considerations: Ensure all legal requirements are met, including permits, zoning laws, and financial accountability. Proper financial planning will help prevent mismanagement.

e) Biblical Example: King David’s plans for building the temple, though not executed by him, were carefully laid out in consultation with God and his advisors (1 Chronicles 28:2-3).

3. FUNDING THE CHURCH BUILDING PROJECT

Building a church requires financial resources, which must be gathered prayerfully and with a sense of stewardship.

a) Trusting God for Provision: Ultimately, the provision for the building comes from God, and the faith of the congregation is key in trusting Him to provide (Haggai 2:8).

b) Encouraging Generosity: The congregation should be encouraged to give generously and sacrificially, understanding that they are investing in the work of God’s Kingdom (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

c) Fundraising and Donations: Consider various ways to raise funds, including special offerings, fundraising events, and seeking donations from other churches and ministries.

d) Effective Stewardship of Funds: It is essential to manage the funds responsibly, ensuring that every contribution is used effectively for the building project. Transparency and accountability in managing funds are crucial.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites, under Moses, gave generously for the construction of the tabernacle, and God provided more than enough to complete the task (Exodus 36:2-7).

4. BUILDING WITH EXCELLENCE AND INTEGRITY
The way we build should reflect God’s excellence and our commitment to honour Him.

a) Using Quality Materials: God deserves the best, and the materials used to build His house should reflect His greatness (1 Kings 6:14).

b) Attention to Detail: Every detail, from the foundation to the final touches, should be done with care, ensuring that the church building is functional, safe, and pleasing to God.

c) Building for Longevity: The church building should be constructed with materials and techniques that ensure its durability and long-term use for God’s purposes (Matthew 7:24-27).

d) Maintaining Integrity Throughout the Project: Integrity in the management of resources, relationships, and time is critical throughout the entire building process.

e) Biblical Example: The construction of Solomon’s temple was done with excellence, with great care taken in the materials and workmanship (1 Kings 6:1-10).

5. INVOLVING THE CONGREGATION IN THE PROJECT
The entire congregation should be involved in the building project, each playing their part.

a) Spiritual Preparation and Unity: Before starting the project, ensure the congregation is spiritually united, understanding the importance of the work ahead (Nehemiah 2:18).

b) Involving Various Ministries: Different ministry groups within the church can contribute to the project through prayer, support, and practical assistance.

c) Encouraging Ownership: Foster a sense of ownership in the church building project, where everyone feels they are contributing to the Kingdom work.

d) Praying for Success: Continuous prayer should be held throughout the project, asking God to bless the work, protect the project, and provide for the needs (Psalm 127:1).

e) Biblical Example: The people of Israel were actively involved in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem, working together in unity and commitment to the vision (Nehemiah 4:6-18).

6. DEDICATION AND USE OF THE BUILDING FOR GOD’S PURPOSE

The building of the church should culminate in dedication and use for God’s purposes.

a) Dedication Ceremony: Once the building is completed, it should be dedicated to God’s service through a special ceremony that acknowledges His provision and the work done.

b) Continuous Ministry in the Building: The church building is not just a structure but a space for ongoing ministry, worship, teaching, and outreach. It should be actively used for the expansion of God’s Kingdom.

c) Fulfilling the Vision: Ensure that the use of the building aligns with the original vision and purpose for which it was built, whether it’s for worship, fellowship, outreach, or community service.

d) Sustaining the Work: After completion, ongoing efforts are needed to sustain the building through regular maintenance, financial support, and community involvement.

e) Biblical Example: Solomon dedicated the temple with a prayer of thanksgiving and consecration, acknowledging that the temple was a place for the presence of God to dwell and for His people to gather (1 Kings 8:10-13).

CONCLUSION:
Embarking on a church building project is a powerful step in advancing God’s Kingdom. It requires careful planning, faithful stewardship, and an unwavering commitment to God’s vision. The project involves not just building a physical structure, but creating a lasting legacy that serves the purposes of God in the community and beyond. As we embark on such a project, may we do so with faith, unity, excellence, and a deep sense of reverence for the work we are undertaking for the glory of God.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give us a clear vision for the church building project.

2. Father, provide the resources needed for the completion of the project.

3. Lord, unite the congregation in faith and purpose as we embark on this journey.

4. Father, guide us in all our planning and preparations for the project.

5. Lord, grant us wisdom in managing the financial resources for the building.

6. Father, help us to build with excellence and integrity.

7. Lord, protect the project from any hindrances or delays.

8. Father, bless the workers and everyone involved in the construction process.

9. Lord, may this church building be a place where Your name is honoured and Your people are blessed.

10. Father, let the completed building be a tool for expanding Your Kingdom and reaching the lost.