Extraordinary Things -- The Vision of the OBN | Matt Keller
I have frequently been asked to explain why we started the Ohio Baptist Network, and I understand why people are curious. There are, after all, several networks of pastors in the state of Ohio, so why didn't we simply join another group? The answer lies in the mission and vision of the Ohio Baptist Network (OBN). Our mission is to connect pastors for fellowship, church planting, and church revitalization in Ohio and for Ohio. Our connection is not based on shared preferences but shared beliefs. This means that we are united through salvation and by our doctrine, which is expressed in our Confession of Faith. Moreover, we have a common desire to make disciples by encouraging and equipping pastors to reach people in their local context. Simply put, we believe in the local church's autonomy, and we embrace the reality that we need one another if we are going to spread the gospel throughout Ohio.
Our vision is born out of our mission. We envision a network of God's servants who are dedicated to serving Christ through the local church and passionate about planting and revitalizing churches so more people can hear and believe the gospel.
We are a network of God's servants. Yes, the Ohio Baptist Network consists primarily of pastors. However, we believe pastor's wives and church staff members need to connect with one another so they too can be encouraged to persevere in the ministry that God has entrusted to them. Our desire is to ensure that everyone who attends OBN meetings know that they belong.
We are dedicated to the local church and its mission. The local church—which is the gathering of God's redeemed ones—is precious. Jesus loves the church, and we believe we should love what Jesus loves. Therefore, we are passionate about planting churches so that people in every community in Ohio can be part of a gospel-preaching, Christ-centered body of believers. We are passionate about revitalizing churches so that the light of the gospel continues to shine through already established bodies in every city. Ultimately, we know that God has chosen the church to share the message of salvation with the lost and to make disciples. We envision a network that supports church planters, helps dying churches find new life, and equips and encourages pastors and staff alike to carry out the Great Commission.
The vision of the OBN will be realized through regular meetings where we gather to listen to one another, learn from one another, and be challenged through sermons that are doctrinally accurate and faithful to the text. We have created a dynamic church revitalization strategy. We are building a church-planting system that will help our vision to establish new churches to become a reality. We will use every medium at our disposal to communicate our vision and progress with all who desire to connect with the OBN. We will seek to involve everyone who wants to serve, and we will share ideas and strategies and help one another grow as servants of God. We will continue to innovate and look for ways to help each other make disciples. We will embrace cooperation and reject competition because we understand that the church is first and foremost about Christ and the glory of God.
The Ohio Baptist Network is not a perfect group, but we will relentlessly pursue our mission and vision, and together we believe that God can and will do extraordinary things through this network. If you're actively part of the OBN, I'm glad you're here. Suppose you've been looking for a network that is based on doctrine, not preference—a network with a clear and compelling vision for its future. In that case, I hope you'll consider attending one of our meetings. If you cannot participate in a meeting, let's get together over lunch and talk, I would love to answer any questions. There are many networks of pastors in Ohio, and I am thankful for each group that is faithful to Scripture. But I think you'll find the OBN refreshing and encouraging, and I hope to see you soon.
Matt Keller
Crosspointe Church, Westerville, OH