The Gospel Coalition

Dear Friends, 

As I mentioned in a previous post, I requested to meet with the entire Coral Ridge elder board (session) before we took another step forward in this merger process. It’s very important to me that the Coral Ridge elders are well informed and on board like the New City elders are. These men are called to provide spiritual oversight to the church and we want them, therefore, to know who we are, what’s going on, and why we’re even willing to talk about this in the first place. No secrets.

Our time started out together with me sharing how we got to this point and the vision of New City. I then opened it up for questions and we all spent the next ninety minutes talking about theological things and practical things. We talked about their fears and mine. We talked about everything from Bible translations to how I train elders at New City and what I expect from elders: humility, servant mindedness, rigorous pursuit of holiness, and an unwavering commitment to lay your life down for others. We talked about the Gospel and the difference between building a man-centered empire and expanding God’s Kingdom; between a tribal church and a missionary minded church. There was a real sense of urgency to focus on big Kingdom things and not to be distracted by the Devil into focusing on small, petty things. It was, on all accounts, a thoroughly rich and enjoyable evening. It ended at 10:00 pm with every man on his knees praying for God’s clear direction and fierce protection! 

Mark Kreisel, Scott Spell, and I left mightily encouraged by our time with these men. Without question, God was surely in that place. On more than one occasion last night, someone spoke up and shared that they are praying for New City and, if God marries these two churches, they will be looking forward to welcoming new friends and family members. 

We can’t predict the future, but we can tell you this: when we work through all our fears and we’re done asking all our questions (some of which we don’t have answers to) we walk away sure–absolutely sure–that God is doing something. It’s undeniable. It’s tangible. It’s scary. It’s exciting. It causes me to feel both treasured and terrified. What a wonderfully uncomfortable place to be!

So we continue to “follow the cloud.”

We have a big meeting next Wednesday night with the whole merger team. We will be going over amended by-laws, policy and procedure issues, and financial issues. Please continue to pray for God’s clear direction and fierce protection. Please refrain from godless chatter and vain speculation. If you are a member of either New City or Coral Ridge, remember your vow to “maintain the unity, peace, and purity of the church.” Pray and fast–don’t speculate and gossip. Don’t perpetuate silly rumors–put them down! (Like the one I heard the other day about how I had already raised the $500 K necessary to rip out the Coral Ridge pulpit and replace the marble stage. Unbelievable!)

We need God. And we need you begging for God to make his will and his way known to all of us.

Thank-you all (whoever you are) for your prayers and your support. As the great evangelist George Whitefield once said to a dear friend who told him he looked tired and worn down, I now say to you: “While I am weary in the Lord’s work, I am not weary of the Lord’s work.” He sustains us and promises never to leave us or forsake us. Praise God!

You have my deepest affections and appreciation,

Tullian