They left James River when he heard the voice of God and even others told him, "Time is up and it is time to leave James River." They had a hard time finding somewhere to go next. He prayed to God, "Whatever it is you have to teach me, please teach me." He realized that he needed to be praying for the person that would be leaving the position he would soon take.
He says that he needed to learn to wait well. Thankful for others to have wisdom to help speak into him during times that he questioned his worth and value.
Embrace the growth in a time where you are waiting.
He ended up at Riverside from a mutual friend.
He says that the lead pastor and him are total opposites but they compliment each other well.
People will follow you deeper and longer when you lead from a position of weakness.
They are a very missional church as opposed to an attraction based. They also record the message and play it at later services as well. It seems to work well for them, says David.
Free Market Small Groups: People get together intentionally to build relationships and have intentional spiritual relationships.
D=R+I
Discipleship= Relationships + Intentionality
Intentionality uses James Engel's scale of salvation. The goal of the groups is to move people closer to "zero" or salvation. They also are trained to listen to needs to be met and meet them with intent. Anyone can lead a small group but there is a screening process and classes that need to be completed and attended in order for them to be cleared.
They have 80-90% of their people are involved in small groups.
When We Get It Wrong by Dominic Smart
They say to read and read and read. A lot. Once out of college, you will learn and grow in knowledge through reading.
Direction not intention will not determine your destination.
Pay attention to what you give your attention too. One wrong decision can lead you to the totally wrong destination.
Not just David Kennard came but an entire group from Dave's church and some from others. It was really great to hear and see how they all relate and communicate. They all had amazing things to say and I really paid attention to every word and story they had. I almost forgot to write some it down. I love to see how God is authentic, genuine and real to them and see how they are trying to relate that to others. I hope and pray God continues to move and bless all of them.
