Church

Oh what an exhilarating ride momentum can be! Just like the adrenaline of an amusement park ride, the ebb and flow of a giant roller coaster – when you are riding momentum it seems like 'anything could happen and it probably will!'

Momentum speeds up progress and propels you forward in a way best described in the Amplified Bible's definition of the word 'blessed': "Blessed, happy, fortunate, and to be envied!"

Momentum is a friend to every leader who is consumed with the cause of Christ and His Church. Conversely, a lack of momentum is the catalyst of great frustration and duress, and often produces striving or disillusionment - neither of which will ever lead to momentum. It is at times like these that the frustration we feel over lack of momentum is only exacerbated by acquaintances or peers who make it all look so easy as they ride on the wings of the momentum we so desperately crave.

It was in 1999 when Bobbie and I were given the opportunity to do something - which for us at that time was a bold and innovative step. We were asked to take on the leadership of my parents’ inner-city church in ADDITION to the church we were already pastoring in the Northwest of Sydney - Hillsong Church.

Bold and innovative because although today in 2013 there are countless models of incredible multi-site churches, back in 1999 it was totally new territory in which we knew of few, if any, role models to look to for guidance.

Dear Friends,

Today, Sunday 24th October 2010, it is being announced at Church Unlimited on the NSW Central Coast and simultaneously at Hillsong Church, that Mark and Darlene Zschech were invited and have accepted the role as Senior Pastors of Church Unlimited, commencing 23rd January, 2011.

To read part one 'The Mentality of THE CROWD vs The Spirit of THE CHURCH' click here.

Moving forward from my last post, many of you know that on top of being a church leader, I am also a sports lover. What I’ve learned in my years of watching and attending countless sporting events is that the mentality of a crowd can be fickle - but the ‘crowd’ that gathers on a Sunday in church, or at a week-long conference, or in a crowded city connect group with the ‘Spirit of the Church’ has great purpose!

Hillsong Conference 2010 was just over one month ago, we have moved well into the second half of this year and I am filled with anticipation, expectation and belief that God is going to do something fresh and new in all of our lives.

Each year, our guests travel from all over the world and our selfless armies of volunteers welcome and serve thousands of people, as we once again gather to be equipped and refreshed together and move into this new decade worshipping our worthy King.

Look up "evoke" in the dictionary and it says "To bring or recall to the conscious mind". Search for “evoke” in the bible and you find (in Ephesians 5, Message) the most magnificent of statements ... "Christ's love makes the church whole. His words evoke her beauty. Everything He does and says is designed to bring the best out of her".

These verses also speak of The Church, in context of a beautiful bride being prepared to one day stand alongside her Saviour King. Heaven delights in this analogy and people who have felt and experienced the warmth of this reality delight also. But let's never forget that those who (sadly) position themselves as "enemies" of this same Saviour, will also position themselves as enemies of His bride. They will never delight or be enthused about her ... To them she is an equal threat, no matter how kind and gracious she (continually) shows herself to be.

It has been a long time since my last blog, but I wanted to catch you up with progress on our plans in New York. Back in February, on Vision Sunday, I was so pleased to announce to our whole church, the concept of Hillsong New York City. This is very much an unfolding story, but one that I believe with all my heart that God is calling us to. The 'when', 'where' and 'how' is still a work in progress, but without a doubt I can say with confidence that we have a heart and a vision for this incredible city.

Once again the sun is shining, the line-ups at the seafood market are HUGE and the beaches are bustling with 'Santa's' wearing surf shorts and sunscreen.  Yes, Christmas has come to Australia and we are looking forward to the fun, family, and rest that is a part of this sacred holiday.

It's hard to imagine that in some parts of the world, while we are running around buying last minute gifts and food for the table, preparing for Christmas Eve services and Christmas Morning church - many are going without, many are hungry, alone or simply unaware of the significance of this season.

Well, our Hillsong UNITED team and I have just returned from a two week tour in South America - and once again I’ve been blown away by the presence of God and the hunger of His people! I am so grateful for the faithful churches and pastors; men, women and young people all across the Earth that continue to put in a tireless effort to strengthen and build the Body of Christ worldwide.

Dear Friends,

What exciting days we are living in!  Last night our church gathered at the Sydney Entertainment Centre to pray for our city and worship together. The night was an incredible testimony to the grace of God on a little church 'down under'.  The new songs rising from this House have breathed life into our church and we pray this project will do the same for you.