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Church History

BBFC History and Timeline

While sitting around the kitchen table on what would have normally been another quiet Christmas evening of sharing at the home of Rev. and Mrs. Arthur T. Jones, the Holy Spirit transformed that setting into a labor room for the birth of a church.  Finally, the long labored thought had come full-term.  While Rev. Wayne Thompson prayed, the Holy Spirit ushered in a new babe, a new church.  The reality of it brought all those present to tears.

On December 27, 1988, the first informal Bible study was held at the home of Rev. and Mrs. Arthur T. Jones.   The weekly Bible study continued, attended by friends and faithful followers.

Most of these persons were members of traditional churches of varying denominations.  Some were unchurched and had not found an inviting church alternative. 

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The format of the Bible study was scriptural exegesis leading to a clear understanding of biblical principles, principles that affect change in the life of the believer.

Persons attending the Bible study felt that their spiritual needs could and should be met by Christ-centered, Bible-based, and Holy Spirit-led leadership. 

Attendance grew each week, eventually outgrowing the Jones’ residence.  Soon everyone sensed the need for more than weekly prayer and Bible study.  They desired a church fellowship.

Our inaugural service was held on February 5, 1989.  On March 5, 1989, we began public worship in the ballroom of the Ramada Inn on Bearss Avenue and I-275.

Today, Bible-Based Fellowship Church has a vast array of ministries designed to address the diverse needs of its members and the Tampa Bay community.  Through growth in membership, discipleship and fiscal stability, we have seen increased evidence of the relevant vision and mission of the ministry.  Yet, this body of believers has most of its promise and potential to fulfill as doors of unimaginable growth and ministry lay ahead.

As the vision unfolds, God continues to pen unparalleled history through the Church and in the lives of its members.  God, by His infinite love and wisdom, has endowed Bible-Based Fellowship Church with a phenomenal vision encompassing five (5) essentials pillars of ministry: Evangelism, Education, Economics, Entrepreneurship, and Expansion.  As the vision continues to unfold, God continues to allow us to be Purpose-Driven and People-Focused, making a Local Imprint and a Global Impact.