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Happy Three Month Birthday (Well, early)

October 30, 2024

A Reason To Celebrate: Three Months (Nearly) of Incredible Growth and Community Impact


Hey everyone! Can you believe it? Passion Church is approaching its three-month birthday, and I'm excited to share everything we've experienced together as a community! From heartwarming baptisms to generous contributions to disaster recovery, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Buckle up as we dive into our milestones and what makes our church a vibrant place to grow!


A Milestone Worth Celebrating!


Three months may seem like a short time, but it's been a whirlwind of blessings, connections, and spiritual growth for Passion Church! Not long ago, we were having our first meetings in the park, and the anticipation of this new creation buzzed in the air as we gathered to worship. As we step into this new season, let's take a moment to reflect on all that God has done in our midst.


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Five Baptisms: A Testament to Faith


One of the most exciting highlights of these first three months has been the five baptisms we've celebrated! Each baptism tells a beautiful story of transformation, courage, and new beginnings. Watching our members publicly declare their faith was incredibly moving. Seeing the joy and excitement on their faces as they stepped into the water, surrounded by loved ones, friends, and our supportive church family, was fantastic.


Their testimonies were powerful reminders of God's love and the life-changing work that He is doing in our lives. It's a joy to witness people taking such a significant step in their Christian walk, and I have no doubt that more will come in the future! Paired with our kid's group doing a worship song that morning, it was a Sunday to remember! 


Generosity in Action: Hurricane Disaster Relief For Western NC


Our community has shown tremendous heart and generosity, especially in the wake of the recent hurricane. It's been a challenging time for many, but I'm proud to say that Passion Church stepped up in a big way!


From food drives and traveling to volunteer to monetary donations, the generosity we've witnessed speaks volumes about the commitment to love our neighbors and stand alongside those in need. It's heartwarming to see everyone rallying together, proving that we can make a significant impact when we join forces. Whether it was sharing a kind word, volunteering our time, or donating resources, each act of kindness has helped heal and restore our community.


Progress Through Our Training Phase


As we navigate these formative months, our training phase has also been met with enthusiasm and dedication. The goal is to learn who we are as a new church and equip everyone with the tools and resources to grow in their faith and serve others effectively. Here at Passion, we exist to reach those far from God; the last several weeks have been dedicated to bettering ourselves and learning HOW we will do this at Passion. It has been a joy to witness our members engaging in various training sessions, learning about different aspects of ministry, and discovering their unique spiritual gifts.


Each participant has embraced the opportunity to dive deeper into their faith, exploring scriptural truths and building relationships with one another. An encouraging atmosphere has formed, where questions are welcomed, and discussions flourish. The dedication and Passion shown by our community are paving the way for even more exciting developments in the future.


Upcoming Events: Building Momentum


As we look forward to the coming months, we couldn't be more thrilled about what's on the horizon! We have some exciting events planned that will strengthen our community, deepen our connections, and spread joy!


Serve Sunday: This is a chance for us to put our hands and feet where our mouths are. Sunday, November 10th, we will meet at the VFW for breakfast before breaking up into groups and splitting off into different service projects. This is a chance for us to serve alongside our families, friends, and church practically and powerfully. More details will be coming out in an email later this week and this Sunday during service. We will have multiple service opportunities for all ages so our kids can also be involved. 


Volunteer Teams: As we get closer to launch, we are expanding volunteer teams and need your help. Many people have offered to help, and now it's time to act on that. If you have already filled out a form to volunteer, expect to see an email soon about background checks and the next steps. Also, starting this Sunday, we will have sign-ups for volunteering for anyone who still needs to sign up. 


Church Planter Commitment: If you're inspired to join our Core Plant Team, you can contribute in many ways! Volunteering your time, talent, or resources is a beautiful way to serve our church community and those in need. Each of us has unique gifts to share, and the possibilities are endless. We are asking for four areas of commitment: daily prayer, weekly activity, bi-weekly service, and monthly giving. If you would like to learn more or talk with Josh about what this entails in more depth, please email passionchurchnc@gmail.com 


Final Thoughts: An Exciting Journey


In less than three months, Passion Church has already made a significant impact in the lives of many. The heart behind this community is evident—from the overwhelming support during disaster recovery to the joyful celebrations of baptism. It reflects a loving and vibrant church family dedicated to living out the Gospel.


As we continue this journey together, let's remember the importance of connection, generosity, and encouragement. Let's keep cheering one another on as we grow in faith and strive to make a difference in our community. The future is bright for Passion Church, and I can't wait to see what God has in store for each of us!


Thank you for being a pivotal part of this journey. Here's to more baptisms, generosity, and growth ahead! Happy early birthday, Passion Church! Let's celebrate together and continue to shine brightly in our community!


Josh Tufte


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By Joshua Tufte • June 18, 2025
Made New: The Power and Purpose of Baptism There’s a moment in every believer’s journey that marks more than just a personal decision—it marks a divine transformation. Baptism is that moment. It’s more than a ritual. It’s more than a tradition. Baptism is a command from Jesus, a celebration of new life, and a powerful expression of the salvation we’ve received. If you've ever wondered why baptism matters, let’s explore its incredible significance together. A Commanded Step of Obedience Jesus didn’t leave baptism as an optional expression of faith. In fact, one of His final commands to the disciples was this: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit...” — Matthew 28:19 Baptism is not just a symbol—it’s a sacred step of obedience. It’s how we publicly say, “I belong to Jesus.” When we go under the water, we identify with Jesus’ death. When we rise out of the water, we proclaim His resurrection power alive in us. The Moment of Washing and Receiving Scripture takes it even further. Baptism isn’t just a public sign—it’s also where something supernatural takes place. In Acts 2:38, Peter declares: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” What a breathtaking promise! Baptism is the biblical moment where the stain of sin is washed away—not because of the water, but because of the work of Jesus. It’s the moment we receive the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, empowering us to live a new life, full of purpose and passion for God. A Line in the Sand — A Flag in the Ground Baptism is not just for the brand-new believer—it’s also a powerful point of rededication for those who have drifted and are ready to return to Jesus with their whole heart. Sometimes we need a moment to say: “This is it. No more compromise. No more wandering. I’m all in again.” Baptism can be your defining moment. It’s the spiritual act of planting your flag and declaring, “From this point forward, I am living for Christ—unashamed, unafraid, and unshakable.” Whether you’ve walked with Jesus for years or just come back after a hard season, baptism can serve as your holy reset. A declaration to your family, your church, the enemy, and even to your own soul that you are His. Not Just a Step—A Statement Baptism is a line in the sand. It boldly proclaims: “I’ve been raised to life. My past is gone. My future is in Jesus.” It’s the wedding ring of our relationship with Christ—an outward expression of an inward commitment. It tells the world, “I’m not who I used to be. I’m brand new in Christ.” Why Wait? If you’ve accepted Jesus but haven’t taken this step, know this: Baptism is not about being perfect. It’s about being obedient. It’s not the finish line of faith—it’s the starting line of a Spirit-filled life. Whether you're being baptized for the first time or coming back to rededicate your life to Christ, this moment can be your defining spiritual milestone. Don’t let hesitation rob you of what God wants to do in you—and through you—right now. You’re Invited If you’re ready to be baptized—or even if you just want to learn more—we’re here for you. At Passion Church, we believe baptism is a party in heaven and on earth. Every time someone takes that step, we rejoice like crazy… because we know the power of what’s happening. Let this be your moment. Be made new. Be washed. Be filled. Be baptized.The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Grace & Truth: The Heartbeat of Passion Church

By Joshua Tufte • April 30, 2025
I will never forget an encounter that changed my life. For this blog, we’re going to say it was a day I was talking with Tammy. Tammy was a teen I had been working with at my gym, training her in self-defense and fitness. She was precious—tender-hearted, kind, smart, and full of promise. All the reasons her dad wanted her to be equipped to protect herself in today’s world. Over the years, we built a strong friendship. She was like a little cousin to me. But one day, she came in visibly upset. We went through the workout as usual, but something was off. Jokes fell flat, silent tears were shed, and her whole demeanor had shifted. At the end, I gently asked if something was wrong. It was like a dam broke. Tammy opened up and shared something deeply personal—she was struggling with homosexual thoughts and urges. Wanting guidance, she had confided in her pastor. But instead of compassion, she was met with condemnation. She described nearly two hours of being berated, judged, and warned she would burn in hell if she didn’t repent. He told her she could no longer serve at the church if this was the path she’d chosen. But here’s the thing—she hadn’t chosen anything. She was experiencing confusing emotions and looking for help. She loved the church. She loved her friends there. She loved Jesus. She came seeking understanding and got rejection. That was the last time she set foot in that church. I sat there, heartbroken and angry. Tammy wasn’t rebellious—she was wounded. She needed grace, not a spiritual beatdown. And there I was, a Bible-believing Christian and conservative church pastor, holding the tension of truth and compassion in my hands. I believed in the biblical view of sex and marriage. But what about grace? What about loving her through a confusing season, mentoring her with wisdom, helping her process powerful emotions—not by affirming them as right, but by acknowledging them as real and pointing her toward Jesus? That day, something changed in me. I knew that something had to shift. And it needed to start here—with a new way of thinking. One rooted in Jesus. One that starts with grace and leads to truth. Why Grace Comes First Jesus modeled this for us. Whether it was the woman caught in adultery, Zacchaeus the tax collector, or Peter after his denial, He led with compassion before correction. He didn’t ignore sin—but He didn’t start there. He met people with grace first. Because grace softens hearts. It disarms fear. It invites relationship. That’s what we want people to experience at Passion Church. Whether it’s their first Sunday or their first time back in years, we want them to know: there is grace for you here. Grace Isn’t the End Goal But grace isn’t the destination—it’s the invitation. Because grace without truth may comfort us for a moment, but it will never transform us for eternity. Truth without grace leads to Hell—but grace without truth doesn’t exist. That might sound bold, but it’s biblical. If we base our salvation on truth alone—just law, just right and wrong—then we fail every time. Romans says, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” If truth were the only measure, then by truth alone, we are all heading toward separation from God. But grace steps in. Grace makes a way. Yet grace that ignores truth isn't love. You cannot love someone and withhold the truth from them. That’s not compassion—it’s cruelty dressed in kindness. It’s like this: imagine I tell my daughter not to touch the electrical outlet. I warn her over and over. I even smack her hand away when she reaches for it because I love her and want to protect her. But then I walk away, and she touches it. 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When Heaven Meets the Ordinary: The Power of Daily Prayer

By Joshua Tufte • April 21, 2025
The past few years have been some of the hardest I’ve ever faced. They’ve been filled with tension, stress, loss, and grief—both personally and spiritually. But nothing prepared me for the day I lost my sister, Nia, on January 15, 2024. That kind of devastation cuts deep. I was broken, grieving, and numb… but life didn’t slow down. My ministry was changing rapidly, my ex-wife and I had just separated, and the businesses I own were starving for attention and direction. I felt like I was standing in the middle of a storm with no place to hide. And the weight of it all was too much for me to carry. I couldn’t stop. But I also couldn’t survive on my own strength. And so—I prayed. Not perfect prayers. Not long prayers. Sometimes just whispered, tear-filled prayers. But they were real. They were raw. And they were lifesaving. Prayer didn’t make the grief disappear, but it became the foundation I stood on when everything else was shaking. 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Prayer brings peace in the middle of pressure. Life is loud. Prayer is where the volume gets turned down. Philippians 4:6–7 tells us not to be anxious about anything, but instead to pray about everything—and in return, God gives us peace that doesn’t make sense to the world. That kind of peace only comes through consistent connection with Him. 3. Prayer invites God into the details. From big decisions to small frustrations, when we invite God into our day—every part of it—we start to see Him show up in unexpected places. Your commute. Your meetings. Your parenting moments. Your late-night thoughts. Prayer transforms “just another day” into holy ground. 4. Prayer transforms us. Prayer isn’t about changing God’s mind—it’s about allowing Him to change our hearts. It shapes our character, stretches our faith, and reminds us who we are and whose we are. It Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated You don’t need perfect words. You don’t need a script. You just need a moment—and a willing heart. Pray while driving. Pray while washing dishes. Pray with your kids before school. Start your day with it. End your day with it. Write it out. Whisper it. Sing it. Sit silently and just listen. There’s no wrong way to pray—only an open invitation from your Father to draw near. The Power of Pre-Deciding Here’s a game-changer: pre-decide. When you pre-decide that you're going to start your day with God and keep Him involved, that decision begins to shape your direction. Over time, it becomes your normal, not your exception. You don’t have to debate it every morning. You’ve already decided—God comes first. Building that habit takes time and consistency, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, you can start by making it simple and obvious: Simple: Download the YouVersion Bible App and start with the Verse of the Day. Pair it with a few minutes of reflection and prayer. That’s 5–8 minutes total. You’ve got that. Obvious: Set a daily reminder in the app. It’ll pop up on your phone at the same time each day. That little nudge might be all it takes to build a powerful new rhythm. You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight—just choose one small step, and keep showing up. God meets us in the simple and the steady. A Simple Prayer to Start With “God, today I give you my attention. Speak to me, guide me, walk with me. Help me see people the way You do, and give me strength for whatever comes. I trust You, and I love You. Amen.” Powerful Bible Verses About Prayer 📖 Philippians 4:6–7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 📖 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 📖 Jeremiah 29:12 “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” 📖 Matthew 6:6 “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” 📖 James 5:16 “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” 📖 Romans 12:12 “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” 📖 Psalm 145:18 “The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” 📖 Mark 11:24 “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” 📖 Luke 5:16 “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” You're Invited If you're reading this and wondering where to start—start with prayer. Start with showing up. Start by saying, “God, I want more of You.” And if you don’t have a church home, or you’ve been searching for a fresh start, we’d love to have you at Passion Church. We meet every Sunday at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM, and whether it’s your first time walking into a church or you’ve been following Jesus for years—you are welcomed and wanted here. Come as you are. Bring a friend. Bring your questions. Bring your heart. Let’s pursue God together. Josh Tufte
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