Starting a new church is not easy work. The sad reality every church start must face is this: many new churches don’t survive. With this in mind, the leadership of Redemption Hill has sought to build our efforts on several key foundations. Over the next several weeks, we will reflect on some essential elements we believe are foundational to starting a church that will bring God glory and go the distance in the days to come.

Foundation number one: the sovereignty of God.  We believe it is essential to have a proper view of God. We agree with A. W. Tozer who said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.” The sovereignty of God may be the most pivotal truth to grasp because it recognizes that God reigns over all his creation with absolute supremacy. As Psalm 115:3 says, “Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.” While the human heart in its natural state balks at the thought of God exercising his authority and rule as King over all things, the sovereignty of God should serve as a most comforting and invigorating truth, particularly for those involved in starting a new church. Why?

Simply put, if God is sovereign, then he is able to deliver what he promises. This is really good news for those starting a new church because in Matthew 16:18, Jesus said, “I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” These words provide us with great confidence that Jesus cares about his church and that he, as the head of his church (Col. 1:18), will ensure it advances and accomplishes his mission. In other words, this is his deal; he can and will get the job done.

A firm belief in God’s sovereignty builds faith and enables people to rest in his gracious provision. This foundational component necessarily affects the way we pray, the way we work, and the way we witness. Our team has experienced the sovereign kindness of God again and again as he has built our team, provided supporters and encouragers along the way, and given us a vision to expect great things from him and attempt great things for him in Medford and greater Boston.