Continuing our new “Praying for our Partners” series with Crossway Fellowship Church, of Athens, Georgia, USA.
See also: Part 1 & Part 2 for background info.
Paul Cooke (Crossway’s senior pastor) and I were at the Sovereign Grace Pastor’s College together way back in 2000-2001, and I recently asked him a few questions to give us some insight into how we can best pray for Crossway Fellowship Church.
Nathan:
“Can you describe for us the general state of people towards church and towards the gospel in Athens?”
Paul:
“Most people here in the South have a “family heritage”. Their granddads or great-granddads probably played some type of role in a “Southern Baptist” church of some sort. They know the “Jesus story”, so that makes them Christians in their eyes. Many can quote Scripture and can even relate the gospel story to you, but few actually believe and live lives changed by it. It is almost like Christianity is just a passed down tradition.”
Nathan:
“Can you tell us about a significant area in the life of Crossway where you’ve seen God at work, for which we can rejoice in and give thanks for?”
Paul:
“We’ve seen a number of new converts and a consistent stead growth in new members. We are still seeing a number of people moving here from all over the eastern United States, which is very encouraging. Some have come from other Sovereign Grace churches, and some not.
In October and November 2008, we also experienced an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as never before in our midst, that was very broad, which included a great deal of repentance and reconciliation taking place, as well as numerous charismatic evidences (tongues, prophetic ministry, etc). This lasted about 6-weeks and has continued to bring fruit in and beyond our church.”
Nathan:
“Can you share with us three specific prayer requests for Crossway Fellowship Church?”
Paul:
“Firstly, that God would bring and provide more leadership to the church, specifically pastoral.
Second, that God would bring more people to faith locally – that there would be a great outpouring of God’s grace in bringing many to repentance and faith in Christ.
Thirdly, I will go on my annual prayer and planning time in February and would greatly desire God to freshly fill me with His Spirit, to gain a further vision for what He wants us to do here in Athens.”
Nathan:
“Is there any other interesting or important things that you think we should know about you or Crossway fellowship Church?”
Paul:
“I have Lyme Disease, and its affects can be broad and numerous. If you guys would pray for God’s healing and sustaining grace that would be great!”
Nathan:
“Paul, Darby and the people of Crossway – on behalf of Grace Church, it’s our pleasure to lock arms with you and partner in this great gospel work, and we are delighted to be able to support you through prayer! May God richly bless you!”
We will be praying for Crossway Fellowship Church during our church prayer meeting on Sunday evening (7pm) 1st February 2009.
