Why 5|42?
It’s from Acts 5:42, a blueprint for how the first gen followers of Jesus turned the world upside-down. It says, “Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.” The multi-ethnic, first-gen community took off through:
1) Large group gatherings, like in the temple courts.
2) Small group gatherings, like from house to house and day after day.
3) And, they never stopped sharing the Good News of Jesus.
Why Community?
The Greek word, ekklesia, from which “church” is derived actually means, “a called out community.” It is never meant to mean a location or building, but rather those who follow Jesus, being adopted into God’s family through a common faith and mission — to make Jesus known to all nations.
Why is “Better Together!” a constant theme?
The first-gen community of Jesus followers, from the very first day (in Acts 2), included believers from every corner of the known world. And, within just a few decades, there were communities of Jesus-followers spanning the entire Roman world — multi-ethnic, multi-generational, Jew and Gentile, slave and free, male and female — all were on-mission with Jesus TOGETHER! The strength of the community was in its ability to break down barriers of division or diversity, to be an equity influencer, all through the love of Jesus. That’s why “BELONG” is a core value of 5|42 Community!
Why Dave & Brenda?
Together they bring 35 years of multi-generational, multi-cultural ministry experience to the Kent Valley, with 17 years having been invested in Asia, helping people take next steps with God. Why Dave & Brenda? Most would say it’s because they love to hear the stories of the people with whom they cross paths. Some would say it’s the scars and miles that seem to help Dave & Brenda relate to the hardships many are facing today. To others, it’s their love for unity in the midst of all sorts of diversity. And, still others, it’s their willingness to build bridges, live life and have fun with all five generations. Dave & Brenda would simply say it’s because they love the Lord, they love each other, and love the adventure of going wherever the Lord calls them, being on mission together with God’s people.
When will 5|42 Community officially launch in the Kent Valley?
Lord willing, and with your prayers and partnership, this October! Send an email to Dave@542life.com if you’d like to know more about joining the Launch Team!