These words are a part of a resolution passed by a group of 300-400 believers gathered together in 1914 in the Stone Church in Chicago to establish the values of the Assemblies of God. This was not a wealthy or influential group of people; they did not have the means to fulfill such a lofty declaration. Their faith is impressive, yet almost100 years later, the results are even more amazing. Today, the World Fellowship of the Assemblies of God numbers over 60 million, and the Pentecostal Charismatic movement worldwide is counted at having approximately 600 million adherents. This is not to say that all of these believers are a result of that one meeting in Chicago. However, that group in Chicago was linked in to a much bigger force: the will of God to give out his Spirit across the earth and draw millions to himself. Through their faith, they had a vision of something much bigger than their little movement.
Last month, we were privileged to participate in the continuation of that vision. We met with around 120 new missionaries for Missionary Training and Renewal in Springfield, MO. Literally every region of the world was represented in this group, and it was inspiring to think of the lives that will be touched through them. This was also one of the final stages in our preparation for going to the mission field, so we’re starting to feel like it’s getting closer!
