“Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Where is the house you will build for me? And where is my resting place?” – Isaiah 66:1
From the beginning, Scripture reminds us that God is not contained by buildings made with human hands. Yet, in His grace, He invites His redeemed people to participate in His work—to build spaces where His name is proclaimed, His Word is taught, His people are discipled, and His mission advances.
Christ Alone Builds the Church
The work of church-building ultimately belongs to Christ alone.
No one else can lay the foundation – “for no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 3:11). He is the Cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20). He is the Head of the Church (Ephesians 5:23).
Every ministry, every structure, every gathering finds its meaning and stability in Him. Without Christ, buildings are empty shells. With Christ, they become instruments of grace for His people and witnesses to His glory.
A Privilege Extended to God’s People
While Christ alone builds His Church, He graciously extends the privilege of participation to His people.
From Moses overseeing the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 36), to Solomon building the Temple (1 Kings 6), God has consistently used willing men and women to prepare places where He would meet with His people. This partnership has never been about human achievement – but about obedient stewardship in response to God’s calling.
A Call for Our Time
That calling continues today.
The early church devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer (Acts 2:42). These rhythms required places where believers could gather—to worship, to be shepherded, to grow, and to be sent.
In the same spirit, God has opened a remarkable door for Jesus Rock of Ages Ministries.
After 12 years of praying, believing, and waiting, JRAM has officially acquired its first owned place of worship, located in the heart of Edmonton, Alberta. This milestone is not merely about property – it is about purpose.
“Let Us Rise Up and Build”
Inspired by Nehemiah’s call – “Let us rise up and build” (Nehemiah 2:18) –JRAM launches Project Nehemiah: Building for Generations.
This initiative is both vision and action, both calling and commitment.
What Is Project Nehemiah?
Project Nehemiah is a faith-driven, proactive response to help fund and steward the church-building efforts of JRAM. But more than that.
- It is both a verb and a noun – a collective work of God’s people building today for the generations that will follow.
- It is a gathering place for small groups and pastoral care, a hub for intergenerational discipleship, and a base for missions, compassion ministries, and community outreach.
- It is not merely about constructing a building, but about building people, strengthening faith, and advancing the Kingdom of God.
A Gift That Keeps on Giving
In the spirit of paying it forward, Project Nehemiah is envisioned as a lasting blessing—one that cultivates generosity and unity across JRAM’s global family.
Through this initiative:
- A culture of generosity is nurtured among leaders and members across Canada and beyond.
- Hearts are shaped to understand that every investment in Edmonton is an investment in the mission and growth of JRAM as a whole.
- Donors and partners are assured that, in God’s perfect timing, what He establishes in Edmonton will also bless JRAM works in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Southern Calgary, and future locations.
All Glory to God
Nehemiah declared with confidence:
“The God of heaven, He will prosper us; therefore we His servants will arise and build” (Nehemiah 2:20).
Project Nehemiah stands on this same conviction.
This is not about human ambition, architectural achievement, or institutional expansion. It is about Christ – His gospel proclaimed, His people shepherded, His mission carried forward from generation to generation.
To Him alone be all the glory.