This week we connected with Matt Jacobs, Executive Pastor of the Barefoot Church to talk about Easter, innovation and the church’s sushi bar.
TONY: I think Barefoot Church may be the only church in America with a sushi bar and a hibachi chef. Can you share the story of the Lakeside Bistro with our readers?
MATT: Lakeside Bistro is definitely a unique concept. It was born out of the heart of “eating a meal and serving a meal.” When you eat at the restaurant, you not only experience the finest sushi in town, but you also serve a meal. Possibly to a child in Swaziland or someone in our own community.
TONY: Why do you think that it is so important for churches to make innovation and outside the box thinking a high priority?
MATT: It is vital to be innovative and always think outside the box because we are part of a culture that does just that. Always keeping things relevant to where people truly are allows their hearts to be more open to hear the never-changing truth in a fresh and impactful way. Jesus did anything he could to connect with people with an outside the box strategy, why shouldn’t we?
TONY: I noticed that on Easter Sunday you are planning to have Sunrise Beach Baptisms. What are some innovative ways that you’ve used your location to build connection and outreach opportunities?
MATT: Beach Baptisms are just one of the innovative ways we’ve used our location to build connection and outreach opportunities. We know God has placed us exactly where we are for a reason, so we strive to leverage even our location for His glory. People come out this way for the beach, so we have them put on their God Jersey through baptism at the beach! We are in a community with a lot of entertainment venues so we strive to be the best in town. Our building is actually an old entertainment venue and we use it to our advantage with the hopes that it will draw someone in to hear the truth of grace that will change their life forever! We have bright lights, tables and lime green umbrellas out front, relevant music, and a free meal before every service…anything to capture people’s attention so God can capture their heart.
TONY: Several churches are preparing for Easter, tell us about your OPEN CASTING CALL.
MATT: As we prepared for Easter, we held an open casting call. We were hoping that talent would come to sing and dance. Our lights were on, we were ready to go, and…well, no one came! It’s tempting to get discouraged with this kind of outcome, but God has actually blessed us with incredible talent across the board. Artists, electricians, people ready to connect with kids, café team members, the list goes on and on! God knows our needs and provides the talent we need at just the right time. We strive to keep opportunities available for every individual and the unique gifting God has given them. When we are obedient to provide the opportunities and people step into them, it’s incredible to see the journey God takes them on to reach their full God potential; to Change Lives That Change The World!
TONY: After checking out your Facebook page, it’s pretty obvious that you have established a culture of innovation and a leadership team that is not afraid to take risks. How did this happen?
MATT: Establishing a culture of innovation and a leadership team that is not afraid to take risks does not happen overnight. In fact, it’s a continual challenge. It takes learning the true practice of walking in faith, against all odds, knowing that God will do what He said He will do. Pastor Clay is an incredible visionary and leader that will take great risks, knowing it’s worth it to reach people with God’s extravagant love. God has blessed this mindset time and time again as we give Him our all. God has given Clay a vision for Barefoot Church that he is constantly pouring over leadership and everyone he comes in contact with. Leadership then carries that vision forward to ministry teams and leaders who can continue to move it forward.
