How do we KNOW we should begin an expansion project for our church?

Honestly, we have no special revelation from God indicating the exact dimensions, cost, or timing of the expansion project for our property on Hickory Road. We have the Word of God to give us principles. We have the Spirit of God to guide us into truth. We have God-called men of God giving leadership to the church of God. Knowing if, when, and how to shape an expansion project is an application of wisdom and an act of faith. But what do we KNOW that gives us confidence that our faith is moving us in the right direction?

• We know that 180,000 people live within a 10 mile radius of the Hickory Road property.
• We know that God wants all of them passionately worshipping Jesus in spirit and truth. John 4:23 But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him.
• We know God is glorified by much fruit. John 15:8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
• We know God wants to build His Church. Matthew 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
• We know God’s gives a church growth when it holds on to Jesus as its head and holds together in unity. Colossians 2:19 holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.
• We know God has made the fields ready for harvest. John 4:35 Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.
• We know God loves it when his people are generous. 2Corinthians 9:7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
• We know God has more than enough to meet every need. Malachi 3:10 put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.
• We know that horizontal giving produces vertical worship. 2Corinthians 9:12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.
• We know that God is please when people far from God draw near to God in faith. Hebrews 11:6 Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Conclusion: God’s character, God’s ability, God’s worship, and our urgency compel us to seize the opportunity to move our church forward in faith by making room for more worshippers to gather together at our property on Hickory Road.