“Lost? Absolutely not!” Imagine those words spoken with conviction by Pastor Jimmy Fuller of Harbour Lake Baptist Church. He likely used them when describing his church’s mission. Harbour Lake Baptist Church is a beacon of faith in Goose Creek. Its story is one of a small church with a huge heart.
Harbour Lake Baptist Church isn’t grand in size. But its vision is as expansive as the world. It stands as a testament to faith and dedication. This Charleston Association congregation demonstrates that vision matters more than numbers.
In recent years Harbour Lake Baptist Church has experienced significant growth. Sunday school attendance rose dramatically. It went from 40 to an average of 150. Worship attendance jumped from 50 to about 175. More than 200 baptisms have been performed. The church now boasts over 60 trained soul winners.
Pastor Jimmy Fuller led Harbour Lake for five years. He characterized his members as loving and caring. They showed their generosity through the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. This offering supports international missions.
Despite economic challenges Harbour Lake Baptist Church contributed significantly. The “blue-collar church” gave $5845. This was for the International Mission Board’s work. Fuller had challenged them to give sacrificially over 20 weeks.
Many church members had faced job losses. Others had reduced hours. Yet they doubled their giving compared to previous years. Before that the most given in a year was $2400. Usually it ranged from $400 to $600.
The record Lottie Moon Christmas Offering has an interesting backstory. Fuller and his wife Cheryl attended their first Southern Baptist Convention meeting in Orlando. Messengers approved the Great Commission Resurgence Task Force report there. It emphasized disciple-making.
Fuller felt moved by God’s spirit. He believed making the Great Commission a priority was crucial. Sharing the gospel is why Harbour Lake Baptist Church exists. It aims to spread God’s love through Jesus to the world.
Fuller was concerned about reports of decreased giving. This could lead to bringing missionaries home. It could also reduce the number of new missionaries sent abroad. He wanted to support those ready and called to serve.
Taking inspiration from Philippians 4:19, Fuller prayed. He asked how his small church could support foreign missionaries. He believed everyone deserves to hear the gospel.
Fuller realized his congregation would respond to a known need. He shared the convention’s financial challenges. He explained the potential impact on missionaries. Then he issued a challenge of sacrificial giving for 20 weeks.
Pew racks were filled with Lottie Moon offering envelopes. Members were encouraged to give weekly. Fuller and his wife pledged $20 per week. Videos from the IMB showcased missionaries’ work.
People were moved by the sacrifices missionaries made. They recognized how many hadn’t heard the gospel. Fuller expressed pride in his congregation’s generosity. He hoped it would inspire other churches.
Harbour Lake Baptist Church is committed to global outreach. It supports the Cooperative Program. This enables greater collective impact. The church focuses on sharing Jesus locally and globally.
Harbour Lake Baptist Church embodies a spirit of generosity. Its vision stretches across the world. The church continues to thrive. Sunday School is at 9:30 AM. Sunday Worship Service is at 11:00 AM. Harbour Lake Baptist Church lives out God’s love. It actively serves its community.