From the Author’s Preface:
Each church planting experience is unique, involving different preachers, locations, challenges, times, and resources. Each church plant has its own unique story, which ought to be told. By sharing these experiences, we equip future church planters with the perspective, confidence, and guidance they need to navigate their own journeys with faith and resilience. This is our story.
When my wife and I started Lighthouse Baptist Church in October of 2000, books on church planting among independent Baptists were few and far between. We read what we could find and listened to those who had successfully started independent Baptist churches. Since then, increased accessibility to affordable self-publishing options has led to many church planting volumes on the market, including the one before you. The church planter has more resources at his disposal than ever.
I have written this book for three reasons. First, there is a need for church planting material written by and for independent, fundamental Baptists. Second, our experience may be of help to you as you follow God’s will in starting a church. At least, you may learn some things not to do. Third, some church planting courses and books go no further than the first services. However, our goal is to plant a church that becomes established – independent, autonomous, firmly rooted in Christ, carrying out the Great Commission of our Saviour. Therefore, I’ll be sharing thoughts from two decades of our experience, not just the first months.
Most of all, I hope you will be encouraged! Churches can be started despite limited means. Whether the sending church is large or small, whether you have help or not, whether you have a wealthy benefactor or work a full-time job – God has unlimited power and resources. He wants to do great things in and through our lives. This is our testimony, based on what God has done in our lives. This is our story: from vision to victory.
“I am glad to recommend From One Bible Teacher to Another. The title truly conveys the heart and soul of the book. Bro. James Rasbeary is loved and respected as a Bible teacher and preacher at Heartland Baptist Bible College as well as Southwest Baptist Church. In a clear and practical way, he communicates what it takes to faithfully teach God’s Word in an engaging manner. Whether for your own personal development as a teacher or as one who hopes to inspire and instruct other teachers, you will find great benefit in this book.” Jason Gaddis. Pastor of Southwest Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, OK, and President of Heartland Baptist Bible College.
“It is a privilege to recommend From One Bible Teacher to Another. Bro. Rasbeary has done a phenomenal job making the complex simple and easy to understand… If you desire to be a teacher or improve your teaching, this book is a helpful resource. It is written by a Baptist for Baptist church members! I highly recommend this book.” Rocky Harrill, Chairman of the Bible Department, Heartland Baptist Bible College, Oklahoma City, OK.
Apt to Teach will challenge you to prepare yourself for the great task of teaching the Bible. Then, it will provide a three-step process for preparing and delivering effective Bible lessons within the context of a local church. The author draws from over 30 years of experience in teaching the Bible in church services, Sunday Schools, and Bible college settings.
Excerpt from chapter one: “Teachers are an essential part of Christ’s plan for His church. They are listed alongside apostles, prophets, and evangelists, and linked especially to the ministry of pastors. These roles are not competitive but complementary. The result of their work will be unity in the church, personal growth, maturity, stability, and effectiveness. I hope that this book will challenge you to see the high calling of the Bible teacher. I hope that you will begin to look at yourself not just as a Sunday School teacher or just a Christian School teacher but as a BIBLE teacher.”
Every believer is called to be a disciple of Christ. But what does that mean? How do we grow in our faith, strengthen our walk with God, and live a life that bears fruit for His glory?
Planted takes you on a journey through the essential elements of discipleship, using the imagery presented in Psalm 1:3— The blessed man is “like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”
Grounded in Scripture, Planted helps new and seasoned believers alike understand their faith, live it out, and experience the joy of walking with Jesus Christ. Whether you’re seeking to establish a firm foundation or deepen your commitment, this book will equip you to be a “disciple indeed”—firmly rooted, growing strong, and bearing fruit that remains.
True Yokefellow Publications 
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