1. Friendship

Proverbs 17:17

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. 

As a network, we consistently strategize ways to be together so natural friendships can develop.  

These friendships add strength to our journey. 

2. Accountability

Ecclesiastes 4:10

If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! 

As friendships form, we see the opportunities more clearly to lean on one another.  

We're not here to critique one another but to tackle the tough questions that inevitably surface in ministry.  

3. Support

Romans 1:10-12

One of the things I always pray for is the opportunity, God willing, to come at last to see you. For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord. When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours.

Beyond our friendships, we value the reality of tangible help that comes from a relational network.  

For pastors and for their churches, Advance offers... 

• crisis support
  
• shared resources / training
  
• cooperative outreach
  
• friendship / mentoring
  
• ministry consultation

4. Impartation

Ephesians 4:11-12

Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 

As Advance grows in relationship and we have more consistent contact, we recognize the gifting that's revealed in our respective lives.  It's these spiritual gifts that Christ intends to build His Church.  Through relational trust we'll see the value of these gifts unfold. 

5. Connection

Psalm 133:1,3

How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! …there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore. 

Our churches will experience the health that God desires when we align ourselves with others beyond our walls.  

6. Vision 

Ecclesiastes 4:9

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work... 

Acts 18:9-10  THE MESSAGE 

"Keep it up, and don't let anyone intimidate or silence you… You have no idea how many people I have on my side in this city." 

We are part of a bigger picture. Advance helps us to see, practically and spiritually, how to engage in this reality.