When I found out that Shannon O’Dell was writing a book, I couldn’t wait to get it and read it! I met Shannon a couple of times and from the moment I met him and talked with him, I was totally impressed! This guy is the real deal and is doing life changing ministry in a creative way in Rural America!
Being a pastor in a rural community has its own unique challenges and issues.  This book has rocked my world, and if you are planting or pastoring a church in …

Three years ago, RiverPoint Church began and God has blessed us with so much and we’ve seen Him do some amazing things over the years. I am in awe of all that God has done. These past few years have been nothing short of a miracle and it’s been a crazy ride.
I’ve noticed the past few months with all that’s been going on and all that I believe God is about to do that I’m “Leading On Empty”! I’m reading that book right now and it’s a great read for …

I really like this video Zondervan made.

A couple of weeks ago I spoke to our church about RiverPoint Church entering into a season of prayer as we make plans for what we believe God has called us to do…to be a multi-site church. I’m learning so much right now and I still have a TON more to learn about doing this. Here are a few of the reasons we are going multi-site!
We Want To Reach NEW People!
When we launch a new RiverPoint campus in Hesston, Burrton, Walton or Halstead or wherever God directs, we will reach …

I recently had a couple of church planters/pastors ask me how I schedule out my week. So this post is for them.
I love my week for so many reasons. As I look back at my ritual during each week, I am thankful for all that God allows me to be a part of and do. Here’s a quick glance at my life during the week. If you don’t care to know all of this, just X out. If you decide to read on, thanks for stopping by.

Monday’s are always Holy …

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about what I’m focused on. I was reminded tonight while driving home that my focused has shifted a bit. When we first started RiverPoint Church my focus was set on Jesus and reaching people who don’t know Him. I remember the days when I couldn’t sleep at night because of my focus. I remember when my focus consumed me and fueled my passion for preaching the Gospel. But somewhere along the way, I’ve shifted away from my focus and each day that passes I …

This is one of the greatest events in the history of RiverPoint Church! This event lines up with one of our core values, SERVICE: The church will see its greatest influence by being servants to the community. We will constantly strive to reach out to our community with acts of kindness for the purpose of showing the love of Christ.

Today was our first Car Care Saturday event and it was GREAT!
Over 50 of our volunteers gathered at the RiverPoint Church campus.
We serviced over 70 cars.
The service included…
Airing up tires.
Checking …

I’m praying daily that Jesus would change and save more lives. I know this sounds like something a pastor would say, but I’m serious. I WILL NEVER stop praying this prayer. I love seeing Jesus change lives.
I’m praying for God’s favor on our church. I really believe that God is doing something at RiverPoint Church this is very unusual. I am so humbled that the hand of God is on our church and He is leading the way.
I’m praying for godly wisdom. I believe God is preparing our church for …

Every church has a different process for leading new followers of Jesus Christ to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. As I’ve prayed about what our church might do in this area, I think it should be simple. So, here’s some of my ideas.

Encourage them to continue attending your church every week.
Give them a Bible (NIV, Life Application Study) & Daily Bible reading program.
Encourage them to join a small group within your church to encourage and teach them.
Teach them about Biblical baptism.
Ask someone in their small group to partner …