Vision and values

Our vision

In Matthew 11, Jesus paints a wonderful picture of the Christian life. He says:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” 
— Matt 11:28-29 NRSVUE

The agricultural imagery can be lost on modern readers. A ‘yoke’ is a device that would harness two oxen together to plough a field. Typically a younger ox would be yoked to an older, more experienced animal to learn. The implication is that when we are yoked to Jesus, we learn to walk at his pace, in his way, and in his purpose.

Our vision is not so much about a number, program, building, or church plant (though all of these have their place) as it is a culture. We live in a time where many people are weary and burdened. 

We envision a healthy, thriving church where people can experience the soul-nourishing rest that comes from walking with Jesus in his way, and learn to share that with others.

Our mission

Our mission is to facilitate transformed people transforming culture. As we pursue Jesus together, we want to cultivate a community who are deeply formed by his message and way of life. In turn, as we engage with our city, we want to see its culture influenced for Jesus’ kingdom.

Our Values

Jesus at the center of it all

Jesus is the orienting principle for everything we do. His ministry is our model, his death reconciles us, and his resurrection invites us into a new kind of life with him. Jesus’ example calls us to fruitfulness over busyness, and as we worship, we seek to be continually transformed by his presence.

Leading with love

Jesus said the whole law could be summed up in love: love of God and love of neighbour. In all we do as a church, we strive to be known for our love. Sometimes love embraces; sometimes it confronts. But love always seeks the good of others, holds grace and truth together, and draws people closer to God and one another.

Open doors, open hearts

We believe in the dignity of every person. Jesus’ example shows us that everyone was welcome to come to him. We also recognise the challenge this creates in a community filled with people of diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives. Yet, we choose to embrace this diversity as a strength, creating a space where open doors meet open hearts.

Faith without filters

We are committed to authenticity in our relationships, faith, and the way we live. We take the bible seriously—it’s the book God meant for us to have—but also recognise the complexities and tensions of faithfully living out its principles in the 21st century. The reality of church life is often messy and uncomfortable, so rather than pretend otherwise, we lean in and see it as a chance to learn.

Grow together, go together

Jesus commissioned his followers to make disciples of all nations. Disciples are life-long learners—apprentices of Jesus who seek to be transformed into his likeness by living his way. As we grow together, we become emotionally healthy, spiritually mature, and equipped to engage our culture, carrying the message of transformation to others. Growth and mission go hand in hand.

Philosophy of Ministry

The activities of Toowoomba Vineyard Church are organised around four key activities:

• We worship authentically and embrace God’s presence;
• We make disciples who continually grow and disciple others;
• We partner with Jesus in his mission to our city; and
• We nurture a community united behind a cause.