The Manifesto explained
The 29th Chapter’s manifesto is a brief version of our vision statement. This is the document that outlines what we believe God has called us to achieve through our music and our ministry. We have also explained in detail each part of that calling. We believe that God is on the look out for men and women of calibre who will take up the gauntlet and live lives full of purpose and integrity, operating in conviction and not preference. Read on to get the full picture and understand the calling of a true 29 soldier.
The Calling of a True 29 soldier
Commission
To walk in obedience to Jesus command to “Go and make DISCIPLES of all nations”
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
This is a direct command form the Lord himself not only to preach the Gospel but also to make disciples. Although we are not able to disciple people on a daily basis we are able to channel people into discipleship relationship through our music, lyrics and actions.
It is a fearful thing to think that so many are on the road to a lost eternity (John 3:18, Matthew 7:13). It is the heart of God and the centre of our vision to see people come to know Jesus Christ and the love that he has to offer and thus receive his free gift of salvation (Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8). The purpose of our existence as a band is not just to make music and do shows. The music and the stage are simply a means to an end, the end being to reveal to humanity the risen Saviour, Jesus The Christ.
History Makers
To be history makers, spiritually, socially and musically. To change the focus of nations and effect history in a radical way.
The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed.” Romans 8:19
God does not call us to mediocrity, the whole world is waiting and watching to see if this news about our creator God is true. It is our desire to effect nations and generations through our ministry leaving a positive mark for Jesus. The effects of the ministry of mortal men such as the Apostle Paul, Smith Wigglesworth, Mother Theresa and many others are seen in our society even today. These were ordinary people with a calling as are we.
Radical & Blatant
To be radical and blatant in our approach whilst remaining relevant and accessible to our audience.
Our society needs to hear the truth blatantly and relevantly. It needs to hear and see that as Christians we have an edge, something distinctively different that the world does not have, money cannot buy and training cannot bring. However, in the midst of our uniqueness, it is imperative that we remain relevant, meeting people where they are at intellectually, emotionally and spiritually.
The Spirit of Excellence
To work with a spirit of excellence in everything that we undertake, constantly reaching to attain higher standards creatively, musically and spiritually.
To be well rehearsed and well rounded in our musical fields.
Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will serve before kings” Proverbs 22:29
In our modern society people are quick to dismiss. For many years and even now within the spheres of application of modern technology and the creative arts it would seem that the Christian world still lags behind the secular. 29 is turning the tables and pointing to a God of creativity and excellence. It is our desire to give God the best we have to offer out of a spirit of love and a heart for service.
Trend Setters
To be trend setters, defining boundaries and constantly pushing them in terms of our creativity and originality. Unique on and off stage, pace setters within both the Christian and secular arena.
God is the original creator; everything we do creatively reflects the wonder of his creativity. Young people need positive role models and we aim to be such as we reflect the likeness of Christ. We also believe that the pattern God intended is that those who follow him should be ahead of the game setting the trends, not lagging behind.
The Lord will make you the head and not the tale. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.” Deuteronomy 28:13
Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in faith and in purity” 1 Timothy 4:12
Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1
UK Focused
The primary geographic focus of our ministry is the UK. It is our Jerusalem and Judea and Samaria.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the Earth.” Acts 1:8
We believe that of all the nations the God could have chosen to have us brought up in he chose the UK for a reason. The young people of the UK are in serious need of a living demonstration of the love and power of God. Our upbringing in the UK affords us a strong understanding of the culture thus enabling us to communicate most effectively.
Legacy
We desire to build, develop and release other people, groups and ministries.
To build up, develop and release other people, groups and ministries. Leaving the legacy that will run independent of our input in the long term.
The 29th Chapter mission is ongoing and will continue even after we are gone; it is a mission of multiplication and impartation.
Vessels
God has called us to be available, clean & empty vessels that He can fill and speak through clearly.
God wants our ministry to be effective, not natural but supernatural, led and endorsed by his Holy Spirit.
Key disciplines and characteristics required to achieve the vision:
- Maintaining prayer and fasting as a fundamental part of our lifestyles;
- Recognising that we are set apart to God and to his call;
- Regularly spending time in God’s presence in the wave of his Spirit;
- Being ready to pay the price for the anointing – God gives anointing freely as he chooses. It is without cost to receive. However, there is a maintenance cost and this can only be effectively paid when we live in submission to his will and authority.
