Francis Chan Resigns Cornerstone

April 19, 2010

Popular pastor, conference speaker, and author, Francis Chan, has resigned the pastorate of the church he started 16 years ago, Cornerstone Community Church. Francis pastors in the same city I do (Simi Valley, CA), and Cornerstone is located just a mile down the street from where I pastor at NewHeart.

I’ve watched Francis grow from being a local Youth Pastor in our city to a Lead Pastor of a very large and influential church. Cornerstone is our city’s only mega-church, technically speaking.

While Francis and I have not been close, we’ve know each other, have collaborated on a couple of city-wide projects and I will always appreciate his forthright manner, laid-back style and the way he fights for what he believes is right and scriptural.

Our city has been one of those unfortunately fraught with negative pastoral transitions in our history (I pastor one of them, that has had multiple pastoral failures over the years), especially from churches that have been popular and grown to significant sizes. I am excited to see a transition take place that is NOT filled with negativity, division, pain and decline.

I applaud Francis for stepping out in faith into an unknown future for himself and his family. If you listen to the video interview at CatalystSpace.com and the message he delivered to his church on Sunday, you’ll hear a good part of his heart and the plan ahead.

Interestingly, he is going to be offering some forums in May and June for Cornerstone folks to be able to ask questions about how and why things are panning out the way they are. He foresees speaking there through the end of May to re-iterate what he believes God has laid on his heart, then fulfilling a pretty heavy speaking schedule through the Summer and Fall before he takes his family on some third world missions adventures later in the year.

What are your thoughts about such a big step of faith?

UPDATE: the below is the letter sent from Francis to Cornerstone:

Dear Friends,

For those who have not heard, this past Sunday I announced to Cornerstone Church that I will be transitioning out of my ministry in Simi Valley. It was a rough Sunday as there were many different emotions floating around the room. In short, Lisa and I believe God is calling us to take a step of faith. We believe we are supposed to move into a major city such as LA, San Francisco, or New York. Every time I fly into a large city, I am struck by the sheer numbers and feel pulled to try ministering in that environment. I encourage you to listen to the podcast from this past weekend to hear more details. If for no other reason, my wife spoke some very powerful words that every believer needs to hear.

It has been an amazing 16 years as pastor of Cornerstone Church. When we started gathering, I doubt that any of us dared to dream that God would use this church to have such an impact on Simi Valley and the rest of the world. I think most of us were just hoping it would survive. God had bigger plans than we did. The Lord has truly shown us His grace, that we could be used as His instruments to bring glory to the name of Jesus.

The plan is that I would teach at Cornerstone through the end of May. During this time, I will be sharing the lessons most important to me. I have taught thousands of times over these years, and now I hope to re-emphasize what I see as most important. I will also be at our prayer meetings to beg our God to do even greater things in Simi after I leave. For those who have questions or just want to talk, you can catch me at the prayer meetings.

I’ll continue to write and give you more information as the Lord continues to guide the elders and me. Like I said at our services, I’m still not completely sure of everything, but it feels great to be living by faith.

Once again, here is my family’s rough plan for our future

April/May = speaking at Cornerstone
June/July = speaking around the U.S.
August/Sept = Praying and walking large cities to seek God’s leading.
Oct-Dec = Serving in a third world country
Jan 2011 = launch a new ministry as an extension of Cornerstone

Thanks to everyone who was a part of this amazing journey in Simi. Thanks for all the love and encouragement my family and I have received over the years.

Francis

Posted by Paul | Filed Under Change, Church life, Leadership, Pastor, Transitions 

Comments

25 Responses to “Francis Chan Resigns Cornerstone”

  1. Mike Floyd on April 20th, 2010 9:38 am

    I respect Francis Chan’s move. On his books alone he can live a “way above” normal lifestyle. I think he is moving on his convictions…not necessarily stepping out on faith.

  2. Micki J. on April 20th, 2010 2:31 pm

    If you know anything about him, you know that he is not living way above a normal lifestyle. He has a fund set up so all the proceeds from his books can all be given away. My guess is that he is stepping out on faith, big time. I felt that this was coming. You could feel his heart stirring for something more “hands-on” on the mission field. Although many people feel sad at their loss, I am so grateful for what he has been to us who listen to his podcasts and have read his books. I am very happy for him and I know God will use him in a significant way.

  3. Paul on April 20th, 2010 4:27 pm

    Thank Mike & Micki, for commenting here. As I mention in the post, Francis and I are not close friends, but we are fellow Pastors and comrades in ministry in the same city. I can attest that he does not live a cut above anyone else around him for sure. I’ve been close enough to him to know that he chooses not to live in extravagance of any form and makes sacrifices that are pretty strong. I think he is and will be a great example of someone who BOTH lives out his convictions AND steps out in faith.

  4. Darren on April 21st, 2010 8:02 pm

    Chan has many options in life. I suspect, apart from God’s calling, that Chan realizes Cornerstone has liimited future for him. The property he purchased and his outdoor sanctuary dream was thwarted by the city. He moved to quickly on a believe he could conquer the government. Since I have listened to Chan speak to his church over the past year, I could sense his frustrated heart in them and oft times limited response when he challenged them to a life of discipleship. He realizes Cornerstone in affluent Simi Valley, and with limited space will not afford him potential to growth. Larger is calling him and he will now go while church supports his efforts. I hope for the Cornerstone church and what it will become. Darren

  5. Douglas on April 23rd, 2010 9:29 am

    I started at Cornerstone in ‘96. Francis inspired many of use to undertake missions around the world. I gave up a lucrative career and headed to Japan for 2 years severing as a youth pastor. I have since resettled outside of California. I am a witness that Francis has been faithful with what God has given him. He has gladly shared his money even home with those in need.

    However, in terms of his “frustration” with Simi and issues of growth, I think Darren may be a little off. It may sound that way listening to podcasts but if you attended you have a different take. Francis made it clear early on that he never wanted a large church and would even encourage people to return to their local churches (as long as they were a bible teaching) rather than join Cornerstone. In terms of expansion and struggle with the city, my understanding is that the city gave the go ahead to build. The catch was that they wouldn’t let Childrens Hunger Fund share the land and it was a deal-breaker for Francis. But I’m sure he will tell you it was God’s will and holds no animosity.

    Probably most of us saw this coming. It was clear he didn’t want to root and lead an ordinary life but wanted to continue to serve where the need is greatest. We wish Francis the best. God Bless!

  6. Paul on April 23rd, 2010 12:33 pm

    Thanks for commenting Douglas, and Darren too! Appreciate your thoughts on all this!

    Paul

  7. Mike Floyd on April 24th, 2010 12:06 pm

    Micki J. and Paul. You are absolutely correct…I do not know Francis Chan personally. My “way above normal lifestyle” comment, since I do not experience him first hand…was inappropriate and unfair.

    Two years ago, I had the awesome opportunity to meet Francis in the parking lot of the Atlanta Convention Center after he spoke at a Catalyst Orange Event. I was struck by how he had spoke about the American Church. He and I sit in the parking lot and talked about the “now what” aspect. His words: “Go home and read. Go home and study. Ask God to show you what He desires for His people. Ask God to show you what He has designed for His people. When He has revealed that to you, measure it against what you currently have and experience.” Six months later we left the “Institutional Church” and began chasing after God in a more organic setting. It is refreshing to hear his interview about this decision.

    Thanks Micki J and Paul for your feedback and information.

  8. Jorge Armenta on April 28th, 2010 7:33 pm

    I have never met Pastor Chan personally, but I always looked forward to seeing him preach on television every week. I’ve read some of the books that he’s authored, and I can honestly say that Mike F. has totally missed what Pastor Chan is all about.
    He has taught me to seek God with all of my heart, mind, soul and strength, NO MATTER WHAT!!!!
    Pastor Chan also taught me to serve God faithfully and when God calls, to completely obey him and if he asks, to not be afraid to give away all that I possess, but to trust God that he will lead us to where ever he wants us and he will provide for our needs..
    Why???? Because he is our Lord and Savior

  9. Terry on May 2nd, 2010 11:18 am

    I have to say that I have only been listening to Francis Chan about two weeks and it has made me realize and take complete inventory of my relationship with Jesus. It is not easy to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. It is a very difficult process. But one that is needed. I believe what Francis is teaching is something that ALL christians need to hear. To have a REAL relationship with Jesus and one another, not the typical “Church” relationship. I am so tired of watered down Christians that think they are living the “best” christian life that they can live, when in reality its “crap”. Church is suppose to be about loving each other and thinking more of each other than ourselves. Its this selfish attitude in Christiandom that has cause many to leave the typical “self centered church” which is so pervasive in todays culture. Godly men and women need to stand up and be unashamed of the truth. I know these last two weeks have made me really take a real hard look at myself. Francis has lead the way of the church, and if anything has stuck in the hearts of the people who listen to what he is saying, which is what the Holy Spirit is saying, its this…. Love God with all your strenght, heart, soul, mind and Love one another….if we get those two right then God will take care of the rest. God bless Francis Chan and thanks for letting the Holy Spirit use him to help someone as “crappy” as myself see where I was headed, the road that leads to destruction. But now i know what has to be done! God bless!

  10. Paul on May 2nd, 2010 7:27 pm

    Thanks Jorge & Terry for sharing!!

    Paul

  11. Melissa on May 26th, 2010 10:43 am

    This posting made me think of how much of a step this is. Think about how easy it would be to stay at the church you have worked for 16 years, it would be simple to just stay in the same routine and ignore the call God has. It wouldn’t be right, of course, but it would be easiest. I admire Mr. Chan for taking such a move, I think he serves as a good example for othe Christians who are just walking in faith. I think this move serves as a reminder to us all of how sensitive we must be to hear the voice of God when he asks us to go.

  12. Paul on May 26th, 2010 2:15 pm

    Thanks for sharing Melissa!

    Paul

  13. James on June 7th, 2010 1:50 am

    If there were anybody on the planet whom i would want to emulate, it’s Francis Chan. I’m also willing to bet that Francis would say if there was anybody that ever lived that he would want to be like he would say Christ, or Paul the Apostle.

    We should all want to be as on FIRE as Francis is.

    The thing is, I KNOW he asks for it. It doesn’t just come to him while he meditates. He asks God to set him on Fire, he Asks God to fill him with the Holy Spirit. I know that and I have never met him. I’ve read his book though and I have been listening to him preach for almost two years now. His heart is tuned into the heart of God and he just wants us to live the same way.

    If we did, America would be a much different place.

  14. Paul on June 7th, 2010 5:07 pm

    Thanks for dropping by and sharing James!

    Paul

  15. Shoua on July 20th, 2010 1:26 pm

    Pastor Chan is a great teacher. I’ve been following Pastor Chan for 2 years now. He lives a radical life and faithfully walks with God. I am amazed of God’s work through this man. I know God has great plans for him.

  16. Brendan on July 21st, 2010 10:33 am

    I had the privelege to listen to Pastor Chan speak two years in a row at Youth Specialties. I am a youth pastor for 6 years and have been nothing but challenged, uplifted and taught by Francis through his books and his weekly podcast teachings. He has been so influencial that my personal relationship with Jesus has blossomed because of his teachings. I am honored to have been able to hear him preach and know that he is following what God has for him and his family. I’m looking forward to see what God has in store for him. The book “crazylove” is extremely powerful. I would recommend it to anyone (and have)- Thanks Francis, I’ll be praying for you.

  17. Paul on July 21st, 2010 2:33 pm

    Thanks Shoua & Brendan, for stopping by and commenting!

    Blessings!

    Paul

  18. Tamara Linkowski on July 27th, 2010 10:15 am

    I hope this message gets to Francis Chan.

    Not that this is what your book is all about, but it sort of is. One thing that really touched my heart in your book was that your mother died giving birth to you. You see, I have 7 children all born by c-sections. My 7th baby was a reversal baby (I had my tubes tied after baby #6, then my husband felt convicted to reverse it). One miracle after another happened (too long to tell) but I want to thank you Francis, for sharing that bit of information because, just a few days before I started reading your book, I was really praying about “Should I keep on having children, even if I may die giving birth one day?” That is one of the biggest struggles in my life. But look what God did with you, and He can do the same and greater with my children, even if He chooses to take my life. So, case in point – my decision has been made – Follow Jesus even unto death!

    I am writing too much, but I love your book, and I hope someday to be able to meet your wife and children and talk about the miracles God had done for us.

    In Christ, Tamara Linkowski

  19. Andy on July 28th, 2010 6:58 am

    I have never met Pastor Chan, though I look forward to one day. Listening to his podcasts has transformed my life, 180 degrees. My Christian walk had been stagnant for many years, as I slowly began to idolize my career and my accomplishments. I lost faith in God and the institution we call the “American church”. My life felt hollow and insignificant; I had turned away from my Savior.

    But listening to Chan’s sermons has revitalized my relationship with God, and I am on fire for Jesus. I began to re-evaluate every part of my life, from my medical career, my relationship with my family, and my aspirations for the future. I’ve “introduced” him to many of my friends, and we all agree, he is genuine in his faith, and a great teacher. Believe you me, his sermons have helped me let go of all the things our world tells us to love, and I embrace Jesus alone whole heartedly.

    Thank you Pastor Chan, keeping doing what you do. To all the nay sayers, we should pray for them.

  20. Paul on July 30th, 2010 1:41 pm

    Thanks for sharing this Andy!

    Paul

  21. Paul on July 30th, 2010 1:42 pm

    Thank you for stopping by and sharing Tamara!! I will try to get this message to Francis for you.

    Paul

  22. Larry on July 31st, 2010 8:30 pm

    If the congregation wont move for Jesus Christ then the the Pastor must move I mean from the pulpit and the people sometimes the people are stiff necked and hard hearted God will not always strive with man. Apparently the church just sat on the pew of do nothing.
    like many do today–be a doer of the work

  23. Paul on August 3rd, 2010 10:30 am

    Something to think about Larry! Thanks for dropping by and commenting!

    Blessings!

    Paul

  24. katie on August 30th, 2010 11:27 am

    I am glad Melissa pointed out that it could be so much easier to stay at the place he has been for the past 16 years! I mean it’s so much more comfortable….. Awe…. but we all know that being comfortable is dangerous! I would also like to make 2 points! Point number 1 – our comments, agreements, disagreements are realy just pointless and uncalled for! it is not us that God speaks to about Pastor Chan, I believe that God is quite big enough to handle this all on his own. Who are we to speak about him and the decisions God is calling him to.
    Point 2 – I would like to point out that in the bible how the FALSE PROPHETS were very popular never to be put down, spoke against, or degrated in any way, but it was the TRUE PROPHETS of God that sacrificed and endured the chastisement of the people! So while your forming your opinions about Pastor Chan and his decision take into consideration these two points!

  25. Paul on August 30th, 2010 10:09 pm

    Good points Katie! Thanks for stopping by and joining the conversation!

    Paul

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