We had the opportunity to sit and chat with Jesse Gordon, a 2014 Summit grad who came to visit campus during Summit's Spring Revival Services. Jesse's story is one of trusting God's call, embracing the challenges of ministry, and witnessing His faithfulness every step of the way. For the sake of brevity and clarity, portions of this interview have been edited.
Can you share a bit about your journey from Summit to where you are now?
After graduating from Summit in 2014, I initially considered a ministry opportunity in my hometown of Kentucky. However, the Lord ultimately led me to Jacksonville, Florida, where a church plant was underway at The Springs Church. I sensed God calling me to step out in faith. I remember sitting in my car, wrestling with uncertainty, but deep down, I knew I had to obey God’s leading. That decision changed everything. Not only have I had the opportunity to grow in several ministry positions at The Springs Church, but I also met my wife Sarah here, and we now have three wonderful kids.
What roles have you served in at Springs Church?
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats—assimilation, kids ministry, young adult pastor, missions, and next-gen leadership. Each role has stretched me in different ways, but my heart has always been to raise up leaders and build a church culture where people feel connected and supported. Right now, I’m focused on discipleship and care, ensuring that everyone in our congregation feels connected and has a place.
How did your time at Summit influence what you are doing now?
My experiences at Summit have had a profound impact on what I’m doing now. Two things really stand out. First, Summit instilled in me the importance of having an intimate, obedient walk with God and devotional life, even in the face of hard circumstances. There were so many moments at Summit where I felt God calling me to step out in faith, to trust Him completely. That lesson has carried through to my ministry today. When we’ve faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, it’s been that deep connection with God, that willingness to simply obey Him, that has sustained us. We’ve seen God do the miraculous time and time again because we’ve chosen to follow Him in faith, rather than relying on our own strength or plans.
The second key thing is the New Covenant theology that was so central to the teaching at Summit. That has become a real lifestyle and guiding principle for us in ministry. We strive to consistently teach and live out those New Covenant truths—trusting in God’s grace, not our own performance. It shapes how we function as a church, how we disciple people, and how we build community. It’s not just an idea but a practical reality that permeates everything we do.
Can you share a time when you had to trust God in a big way?
One of the most defining moments came when my wife and I made the difficult decision for her to stay home with our child, even though it didn’t make sense financially. We knew it was what God was leading us to do, but it was a huge leap of faith. Incredibly, week after week, small blessings arrived, and our savings never seemed to diminish. God provided in ways we never expected. That experience reinforced our faith in His provision and the importance of walking in obedience, even when the numbers don’t add up.
What encouragement do you have for Summit alumni?
Do not forget the rock from which you were hewn. The foundation you received at Summit isn’t just for your past—it’s for today, for every step of your journey. Continue seeking God’s redemptive work in your life, and don’t try to do ministry in your own strength. Remember the lessons of faith, obedience, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. If you trust Him, He will lead you in ways you never imagined. The faithfulness of God is the same it has always been. If you find yourself distant from Him, the moment your turn to Him he embraces you and loves you. Don't give up on prayer.
How can people be praying for you and your family?
We would love prayer for strength and dependence on the Holy Spirit as we minister to our congregation. We need strength from the Lord to minister by the power of God. We want God to have His way in our lives and in the congregation we serve. We need the Holy Spirit, because most days, if I'm being totally transparent, we don't always know what we are doing! We rely on the Holy Spirit, and he guides and leads every step of the way.
Anything else I missed?
We have been so blessed by God. My wife and I, our family, we have been so blessed again and again by God. I want to make sure I let people know that. Sure, there have been struggles, but the most amazing things happen when we surrender and let the Holy Spirit lead. That’s what I want to encourage others to do—step out in faith, trust God, and watch Him move in ways you never expected.
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