I've found no finer place to worship!
By A Yahoo! Contributor, 11/23/09
I'd number Johnson's Ferry Church among the top five in the USA and I've lived coast to coast, in the middle, as well as in the north and south. I belonged, for a number of years, to Robert Schuller's Chrystal Cathedral (in California's Orange County), and Johnson's Ferry Church beats that inspiring congregation's sensational musical program, "hands down!" The Rev. Bryant Wright is one reason why folks so enjoy being an active part of JFBC; but he's just one of many reasons. Rev. Wright is a Bible scholar second to none and his messages are centered upon the truth of Jesus Christ in every day life. Wright is a gifted and inspiring speaker and he doesn't "soft-sell" the Son of God. -- Instead, he causes one to FOCUS upon Him, to come to know Him as Savior and Friend, right "up close and personal"! There is great comfort in that.
Now, the people of this church's membership will amaze you. They're not just 'warm and friendly' -- they're far more. -- They're genuinely caring, interested in you! They genuinely love God and are hungry and thirsty to serve Him! And when you're in need of prayer? The JFBC prayer room is staffed (one hour at a time) for 24 hours per day -- yes, around the clock. This is a church family who knows the power of prayer and Pastor Wright never stands in the pulpit without members of the prayer team lifting him before the throne of grace in his office, for the length of the service. The first time I ever visited this church (and in spite of it's being what many would refer to as a "mega church"), I could palpably feel the presence of The Holy Spirit... and I knew that the following Sunday, I'd join, become a member -- even though I'd years before, left the Baptist denomination.
Finally, this is not your "typical" Baptist church. This gathering of "those who seek Jesus" is more centered on just that -- and not upon the "politics" of the Southern Baptist Convention. This should not imply that this congregation or it's pastors have "gone rogue"... It should mean instead, that this church can think on it's feet and that it loves the Lord Jesus Christ, God, His Father and ours, and The Holy Ghost more than it values political policies and standards. Some elements of their "style" may seem "Southern"; others will faintly ring a rather dignified "Baptist bell"... But you'll quickly understand why people of a host of other "denominations" are entirely comfortable with the very forward-motion JFBC.
The JFBC music ministry, including their choir, orchestra, and the magnificent pipe organ, are second to none I've experienced in far larger metropolitan areas. They are excellent and each exceeds the beauty of the original "Hour of Power" choir that so ministered to my spirit in the early 70's. But Bryant Wright and his family? What humble leadership they have provided across these years.... And look at how clearly and abundantly God has blessed and magnified the work of their hands! Bryant, Anne and each of their 3 sons would, however, be quick to breathe, "To God be the glory, for great things He has done!"
I'd gladly , and with enthusiasm, drive a hundred miles to attend even one Christmas or Easter pageant at JFBC. This church hosted the athletes during the Atlanta Olympics and that should surprise no one who has attended a service. Unfortunately, I presently live on the West coast again, but I'm grateful for the JFBC Web site, where I can sill study under the wisdom and brilliance of Pastor Wright, through the benefit of his Webcast sermons!
Get to services early, however; so that you can sit near the front. I would imagine you'll want to become a part of this family of believers, to come to know and share their joy in the Lord!
