Understanding BRANCHING OUT

The language we use at First Baptist Church of Tampa may be a little unfamiliar to you, so here is a brief explanation of what BRANCHING OUT means.

What does it mean to BRANCH OUT?

Above the roots and trunk you will find the tree's branch structure which is the location of the tree's foliage, nuts, and/or fruit. In terms of an apple tree, healthy roots (DIGGING IN) and a strong trunk (GROWING UP) are pointless if the tree has no limbs on which to produce apples.

With a tree's branches and fruit in mind, BRANCHING OUT denotes two essential aspects in the church. First, BRANCHING OUT is where the THRIVING disciple bears fruit in his or her life. This fruit includes the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), productive ministry, and new disciples through missional living and evangelism. Second, BRANCHING OUT denotes the church's efforts as a whole to impact the city of Tampa and beyond with the gospel. In this context, the fruit is an improved community, increased influence, and an expanded church presence.

Why does it matter that disciples BRANCH OUT?

Quite simply, a THRIVING disciple must branch out to fulfill his or her fundamental purpose in life. If God's only desire was for a Christian to DIG IN and GROW UP, He would be wiser to call the believer to heaven immediately after conversion. DIGGING IN and GROWING UP are far more productive in heaven where sin does not impede either. The reason why God does not do this; however, is because BRANCHING OUT cannot occur in heaven. It is an activity disciples can only perform on earth.

How do we BRANCH OUT as a church?

There are four primary ways we BRANCH OUT as a church. Community Life Groups (topic-based groups that often meet in homes in our community) are natural activities to which friends may be invited. Bible Study Core Groups are another natural entry point for the unchurched. Additionally, various ministry activities in our community including partnering with community organizations and national and international mission trips are ways to BRANCH OUT.

How can I BRANCH OUT as an individual?

To BRANCH OUT as an individual is to live missionally, or to live as a missionary in your present context. A THRIVING disciple will live missionally in his or her workplace, neighborhood, social circles, and more. Missional THRIVING disciples will intentionally cultivate relationships with the purpose of naturally sharing the gospel and/or sharing invitations to participate in BRANCHING OUT activities through the church.