by Jimmy Hester, chairman of NFBC Trustees
Writing to the believers in Rome, the Apostle Paul said, “Now as we have many parts in one body, and all the parts do not have the same function, in the same way we who are many are one body in Christ” (Rom. 12:4-5). That image of one body is easy to visualize when we gather beneath the tower at Seventh and Broadway as Nashville First Baptist. But it is also true during these challenging days when the building is closed, and the members are staying home to protect against a life-threatening virus.
When the virus first invaded our area, our pastor reminded us that people define the church, and the church exists wherever those people live and work. What a graphic reminder that each person is gifted by God to accomplish the mission and ministry of the church wherever they are. That is more evident today as our members are scattered across middle Tennessee. During the coming days of returning to a more functional society, we will be called to step up and use our gifts and talents to address the needs around us.
Paul continued by giving examples of gifts for ministry: “According to the grace given to us, we have different gifts: if prophecy, use it according to the proportion of one’s faith; if service, use it in service; if teaching, in teaching; if exhorting, in exhortation; giving, with generosity; leading, with diligence; showing mercy, with cheerfulness” (Rom. 12:6-8). Church leaders are working to make it possible for us to gather once again for Bible study and worship. In the meantime, be on the lookout for opportunities to be Nashville First Baptist wherever you are.
We are a caring community of faith with a heart for the people who live, work, and enjoy downtown. We have discovered life in Christ. We connect with one another for the sake of the gospel. We grow more Christ-like every day, and we serve one another in Christ’s name and to His glory.
With two centuries of history, this church continues to be a strong testimony to the grace of God. He who began a good work in us will be faithful to complete it until the day of Christ.
We gather in the heart of the city we love to continue the life and work of Jesus Christ from our corner. From here, we touch the world by sharing the gospel, praying for those in need, and giving ourselves to the work of missions across the street and around the world.
Our ministry is not to a section of the town, but to the entire city, for we reach out in every direction. Our ministry touches many neighborhoods, influences offices and boardrooms, is felt on school campuses, makes a difference to those in need, and offers the hope that is found in Christ.
We exist for others. We live to serve. We attend because of conviction not convenience. We love God. We love people. We are Nashville First Baptist Church.
Hear an audio reading of the text in player below.