I had an enlightening meeting with Matt Evans of Rock Bridge Church yesterday. I was looking for his advice about church planting, how to go about it and what strategy to use. I was struggling with the question of whether to do a cell church approach which focuses on small groups, using them as an entry point rather than the larger service, or to use an attractional approach where you have a big launch service, using that as an entry point and then encourage people to get into small groups.

After talking a while and realizing that I was really struggling with this issue, Matt just kinda kicked back and asked a simple question, “Adam, what are your gifts?” Having taken a test or two on the subject, and just knowing my general quirkiness, this was one question I felt I could answer. I have gifts in teaching, shepherding, leading and connecting to a community.

Then he asked the question that brought it home. He said, “Adam, are you good at small groups?” Honest answer, no. I believe in small groups, I love small groups, I want to use and encourage and participate in small groups. But, at the end of the day my talents, spiritual gifts and passions lead me to stand in front of a large group and teach the Bible. That is my passion.

From this conversation, and other things in my life, I am learning that I have to be me. God created me in His image. He gave me certain talents and abilities at birth. He gave me spiritual gifts for the furthering of His Kingdom at my spiritual re-birth. The passion within me for Him and His Kingdom is a passion that He has birthed and cultivated. And so, I would be foolish, even sinful, to run from who I am. Instead I must understand how God has created me, embrace my role in His Kingdom, and live it out. In doing this I must continually overcome sinful flesh, renew my mind through His word and prayer, and follow Him.

I gotta be me.