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Frequently Asked Questions

What denomination is Woods Chapel Bible Fellowship?

We are a nondenominational Bible church. We emphasize expository (verse-by-verse) teaching of the Bible, and the supremacy of God in our worship. Our goal is to strengthen disciples for ministry. Our Statement of Faith will help you to know where we stand doctrinally.

 

Where are you located?

Woods Chapel Bible Fellowship is located at: 701 NW Woods Chapel Road, Blue Springs, MO 64015. We are a half-mile south of I-70. For directions from your location, please use our interactive map under the CONTACT US tab on the left.

 

Do you have age-appropriate focused ministries?

Yes. By clicking on the MINISTRIES tab on the left, you will find a group that is suited to your age, and those of your family members. Although these individual ministries are provided, we also value families coming together to worship, fellowship and serve the Lord.

 

What is your dress-code?

People attend our services in a variety of dress - from suits and dresses to casual attire. Our emphasis is not on externals, but on the internal - the heart prepared to worship.

 

When and how is Communion served?

Communion is served on the first Sunday of each month. Open Communion is our tradition, meaning we welcome all believers to join us in celebrating what the Lord has accomplished for us on the cross.

 

How do I become a member of WCBF?

Membership is a privilege available to all who have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, who have been obedient in believer's baptism, and who are in agreement with the statement of faith and mission of the church. If this is your continued desire, we ask you to notify the church office and let us know of your interest in becoming a member. Quarterly, the elders host a dessert membership gathering where they answer your questions about the church. They are available to hear your testimony that very night, and extend to you the right-hand of fellowship to WCBF

 

What is considered a biblical baptism?

Biblical baptism is first a symbol of faith; an expression with the whole body (immersion) of the heart's acceptance of Christ's Lordship. It follows conversion Acts 2:41; 8:12; 10:47-48; 16:14-15; 16:33-34; 18:8; 19:3-5, thus only for believers. It is not a saving ritual - Jesus is the One who saves. It is a step of obedience to God and a testimony to others of faith in Christ.

 

What is meant by tithes and offerings? What does God expect of me?

A tithe is considered a tenth (10%) and is a good place to start in biblical giving. Offerings are gifts brought to God beyond the tithe. God expects every Christian to give, to give generously Exodus 36:3; Mark 14:3-9; 2 Corinthians 8:2, to give regularly and systematically 1Corinthians 16:2, to give worshipfully and cheerfully 2 Corinthians 9:7, and quietly Matthew 6:1-4. There are three levels of giving: less than our ability, according to our ability, and beyond our ability.  God wants us to live in the last two levels as He provides.

 

How can I volunteer?

Opening up the ABOUT US tab on the left, and selecting Volunteers, will bring you to a page which lists a number of areas that enlist volunteers. This list is by no means enclusive. All positions are filled with volunteers except those on our Staff page. Each week in our bulletin, we request that you fill out the Connection Card. This tear-off form lists additional ministries that may be of interest to you.  Visit the Information Center in the library, or you may also wish to call our church office or choose to use our Contact Us form to let us know of your desire to volunteer. We consider our volunteers the backbone or our church.

 

What is the history of WCBF?

Woods Chapel Bible Fellowship began in May, of 1977, as a Bible study in a home. By July, Pastor Schuyler Butler became our first pastor. Our first worship service and Sunday School classes were held in the music room of Blue Springs High School, on September 11, 1977, with 36 in attendance.

 

After four years, Pastor Ken Erisman, became our pastor. Under his leadership, the congregation continued to grow spiritually and numerically. By Sept 1983, a ground-breaking service was held on the property for the first phase of our building which would seat 115 people. Our auditorium was added in 1987. After eight years, Pastor Erisman sensed God calling him to begin a ministry in Lee’s Summit, where he continues to minister.

 

Our present pastor, Dr. Rodger Williams, began shepherding the flock in March 1990. God continues to use Pastor Rodger to encourage and challenge us, and to further develop dedicated leaders for the expanding ministries of our church. Under his leadership, three church plants were established, and he continues to act as coach and mentor to those churches.

 

We have completed phase 3 of our building program which gave us expanded restrooms, a large hallway for gathering and a well-equipped library which can be used for many small group gatherings. We have future plans for a larger auditorium and much needed Sunday School classroom space.

 

(A booklet called, The Birth and Growth of WCBF 1977-2002, is available on the hanging rack outside of our offices, if you would like to read a more detailed account of how God has blessed us over the years.)