BBFI Church Planting

BBFI Church Planting: Spreading the Gospel, One Church at a Time

Since 1950, the Baptist Bible Fellowship International has been dedicated to planting Gospel-preaching, Bible-believing churches across the United States. Over the decades, we’ve helped establish thousands of churches that have reached countless people with the message of Christ. These churches have become thriving communities that continue to fulfill the Great Commission.

If you’re considering church planting or have recently begun the journey, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From preparation to launch and through the challenges of ministry, the BBFI offers guidance, resources, and a network of pastors and churches to help you succeed.

Currently, we’re proud to support church plants spanning the nation from Maine to California and Texas to South Dakota. Together, we’re transforming lives and building communities rooted in faith.

How Church Planting Works in the BBFI

While God provides the calling and direction, the BBFI is here to equip and support you on your church planting journey. Here’s how the process works:

Confirm Your Calling
God’s calling is foundational. If you sense His leading to start a church, we’re here to help you take the next steps.
Partner with a Sending Church/Pastor
You’ll need a sending church/pastor who knows you personally, supports your ministry vision, and confidently affirms your readiness to plant a church.
Align with BBFI Articles of Faith
To partner with BBFI, you must align with our Articles of Faith and uphold our distinct Baptist beliefs.
Complete a Church Planter Assessment
Assessments are vital to understanding your strengths and identifying areas for growth. We recommend our own APEX Church Planting Assessment, which includes:
- An in-depth three-day assessment.
- A personalized mentoring program to guide you through the process.
- Click here to learn more about APEX!
Present Your Church Plant to the Fellowship
Once you are ready, we’ll help you present your church plant to the pastors and churches of the BBFI, connecting you with encouragement, prayer, and potential financial support.

Planting a church is a journey of faith and commitment, and the BBFI is ready to walk alongside you every step of the way.

How to Get Connected

We’re here to help you connect with the people and resources you need to succeed in your church planting journey. Whether you have questions or are ready to take the next step, the following leaders are available to guide and support you:

BBFI Vice President of Church Planting – Randy Abell
Pastor of Heartland Baptist in Ames, Iowa

📞 (515) 450-0200
✉️ RandyAbell@aol.com

BBFI Central Office Director – Randy Harp
A resource to help with all things related to the BBFI

📞 (417) 831-3996
✉️ RandyHarp@bbfi.org

APEX Director – Terry Kizer
Specializing in assessments and mentoring

📞 (817) 269-0860
✉️ Terry@apexbbf.org

State Fellowship Chairmen
BBFI has nearly 30 state fellowships across the country. We can help you connect with a local fellowship for prayer, support, and encouragement.

Have more questions? Reach out to any of the contacts above. We’re excited to help you take your next steps in church planting!