What is a Simple Church?
‘Simple’ = embodying, or being, the church.
A gathering of believers that can meet anywhere (a park, home, coffee shop, or other third space) and focus on 3 elements: Worship, Community, and Mission.
Worship
Through worship, we acknowledge God’s glory and our dependence on Him. This worship isn’t only in song; it extends throughout the week and involves our whole being. Whether in the community, at home, or gathered together, we are the worshipping body of Christ where we can dive into scripture, prayer, and conversation with God and one another.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Col. 3:17
Community
We come together to share daily life — our hearts, our joys, and our struggles. It may look like sharing a meal, an activity, or a commitment to a local need. We come together to learn from each other’s diverse experiences and encounters with Christ, empowering each other to flourish in the way of Jesus and the Holy Spirit's liberating work.
“Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to [them] was [their] own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.” Acts 4:32-33
Mission
We’re here to be a physical manifestation of the redeeming work of Christ. We do this by exploring our unique gifts to offer hope in our community relationships. There, we find our discipleship path and help others discover the living gospel.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matt. 28: 19-20
“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Ephesians 2:10
Why Become a Simple church?
We’re responding to Christ’s call
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt. 28: 19-20)
We’re cultivating deeper spiritual connections
There’s a greater sense of belonging when we gather in smaller settings to pray, share meals, and study scripture. There, we can become honest and accountable to the way of Christ as we build small, trusted circles.
How do we make margin to do this?
We’re actively participating in mission
By confining the church to a place or platform, we reduce the church to a building and programs, robbing people of their God-given role in the body. But Jesus' presence is active everywhere among His people, and “all of [us] together are Christ’s body, and each of [us] is a part of it. (1 Cor. 12:27)
How to Start a Simple Group?
Start with friendship
God’s family is formed in social settings, living rooms, and mealtimes. We can’t grow spiritually unless we’re connected to Christ through relationships.
Intentional friendship becomes the pathway for formation, multiplication, and community flourishing.
Follow the way of Christ
Just like Jesus, we live in dependence on and submission to God as we pray and discover whom we are being guided toward.
Keep it Simple
Consistency is more valuable than extravagance. Walk with others in a way that comes naturally. Incorporate hobbies, set a regular date after work, or invite connections into your daily rhythms.
They devoted themselves… breaking bread in their homes… with glad and sincere hearts.
Acts 2:42-47