Rev. James Tembula

 

James’ goals are: to enhance Organizational goals through effective mobilization, interaction and development of others into leader so that at the end  of it successors are developed; to enhance the activities, objectives, purposes and goals of the organization thus delivering results and to work in new environment and interact with people of all classes, tribes, and races without struggle.

James has skills and expertise in different areas. He has a strong interpersonal skills with capacity to understand people with different personalities and behaviors, capacity to communicate effectively, ability to teach and control a class. As much as he can teach many other courses, he has more competence in teaching Theology, Leadership, Administration, Management, Hermeneutics, Homiletics and pastoral courses. Finally, he is skillful in organizing workbags, priorities and meets deadlines.

James has academic qualifications that range from Doctorate Degree in Leadership & Management – Logos Universty, USA, and Masters of Arts in Leadership & Management – Logos University USA, Bachelor of Arts Degree in Bible & Theology (Hons): Global University, Springfield MO, USA  He is currently working on his Masters of Art Degree in Christian Education with Grace International Bible University, Liberia. At his Bachelors lever of education, he was a valedictorian.

Other areas of his academic qualification are; Diploma in Christian Ministry: Kima International School of Theology, Kima – Maseno, Kenya, Diploma in Evangelism, Discipleship & Christian Leadership: Great Commission Training Center (Campus Crusade for Christ) , Nairobi, Kenya; Certificate  of  Participation in Competence Based Education and Training –Capacity Training Institute, Kenya; and Certificate of Completion in Leadership Development – Strategic Global Assistance – Ekhart, Indiana, USA.

Pastor Stephen Gimlich, Red Sea Baptist Church

 

Red Sea Baptist Church is a new Independent Fundamental Baptist church plant in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, led by Pastor Stephen Gimlich and the Gimlich family. Launched on October 5, 2025 (with an establishment date of April 19, 2026), the church focuses on inner-city ministry as tentmaker missionaries. 

The Gimlich Family and Their Mission

The Gimlich family, sent by Glory Baptist Church, to downtown Indianapolis to plant the church. They operate as tentmaker missionaries, meaning they maintain secular jobs while dedicating significant time to preaching the Gospel, discipleship, and community building. This approach mirrors the Apostle Paul’s model of self-supporting ministry to avoid financial burdens on new works and maintain focus on service. 

Pastor Stephen Gimlich leads the congregation with a clear vision centered on inner-city challenges:

• Reaching the lost with the Gospel.
• Discipling new believers.
• Standing against crime and social decay.
• Extending God’s compassion to those in crisis (e.g., through aid, counseling, and practical help).

Their ministry philosophy emphasizes transformation through faith, love, and active good works. They frequently reference Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.” This verse encapsulates their goal of visible, impactful walk in faith in a needy urban environment. 

Church Distinctives

Red Sea Baptist Church identifies as an Independent Fundamental Baptist church plant. Key characteristics include:

• Exclusive use of the King James Version (KJV) Bible.
• Traditional, God-glorifying music (hymns and conservative worship.
• Sunday evening worship at 6:00 PM.
• A strong emphasis on preaching, Bible study, youth outreach, and crisis response.
• Commitment to a simple, authentic worship space rather than elaborate facilities.

The name “Red Sea” it’s draws from the biblical Exodus account, symbolizing deliverance, new beginnings, and God’s power to part impossible obstacles—fitting for a new church plant in a challenging urban setting. 

Context and Implications

Indianapolis’s downtown and near-north side areas face typical urban issues: poverty, crime, family breakdown, and limited access to stable faith communities. The Gimlichs’ work addresses these through holistic ministry—evangelism paired with practical compassion. As a new plant, they rely on partnerships with established churches for support (monthly or one-time gifts) to fund Bible materials, youth programs, crisis aid, and basic operations.

This model offers several strengths:

• Authenticity: Tentmaking keeps the focus on mission over professional ministry.
• Doctrinal clarity:  KJV and fundamental Baptist stance appeals to those seeking traditional, Bible-literal life.
• Community impact: Direct engagement with “the least of these” in the inner city.

Potential challenges include the difficulties of urban church planting—building trust in transient or skeptical neighborhoods, financial sustainability, and balancing family/work/ministry demands.

Invitation and Contact

The church warmly invites visitors. “Join us for worship this Sunday at 6:00 PM.” Pastor Gimlich and the family welcome prayer for wisdom, strength, open hearts, and gospel opportunities across downtown Indianapolis.

For more information:

• Website: redseabaptistchurch.com
• Facebook: Red Sea Baptist Church (Indianapolis)

Red Sea Baptist Church represents a bold, faith-driven effort to bring conservative, Christ-centered ministry to the heart of Indianapolis. Its story highlights dedication, reliance on God’s provision, and a commitment to shining light in darker urban corners. If you’re in the area or interested in supporting urban church planting, this is a ministry worth watching and praying for.