Our History
Since 1959, God has faithfully gathered a body of believers who are committed to upholding the truth of His Word.
Founded on the Word
In 1959, an evangelist came to Lincoln with two desires: to win souls for Christ and to start a church founded on the Word. It was not long before a Bible study was formed and began meeting at the YMCA.
The members of the Bible study tasted Bible teaching and were hungry for more. Meanwhile, God was working in their lives, stretching and molding each one into His image.
Established in Lincoln, NE
The Bible study grew under the teaching of the Word and the small fellowship purchased a church building and parsonage at 2011 G Street. Although they were not yet organized as a local church, the fellowship met for worship services and Bible studies. God had begun a work in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Articles of Incorporation were filed with 42 charter members. The congregation was young but held true to their convictions and based their decisions on God’s Word. When they needed help, “they looked up.” God continued to bless and the little church began to experience growing pains.
Parking was limited and the congregation needed more space for developing ministries. The congregation began praying and three acres were purchased for relocation on the east edge of Lincoln.
Built On Prayer
Construction began on the new church. The name of the church was changed to Indian Hills Community Church to reflect its new neighborhood subdivision.
The congregation of 55 people held their first service at the new church and asked God for wisdom, courage and strength to do His will.
Shaped By Preaching
Gil Rugh, a young seminary graduate from New Jersey, came in 1969 with a desire to lead the church through in-depth, systematic Bible teaching.
The congregation devoured the deep truths of the Word as well as the basics, and ministries were developed for all ages. A new era had begun at Indian Hills Community Church.
The congregation flourished under Gil’s steady, consistent manner of dealing with the Bible. Excitement grew as saints talked about working for eternal rewards, and God’s Word was treasured as the ultimate authority.
Developed By Leaders
The conviction to train men to teach the next generation led to the formation of the Timothy Training program—a course for all leaders and potential leaders. The combination of Gil’s ability to see the strengths and gifts in others, and his mentoring view of “growing” others in the faith resulted in a strong lay leadership base throughout the ministry.
God’s blessings were evident as men developed their teaching skills and went on to develop and expand ministries at The Hills and in other churches. God has called over 100 men from Indian Hills to seminary and Bible College since its inception.
Expanded By Believers
Gil’s uncompromising stand and literal, historical-grammatical interpretation of the Word carried over to his booklets. Members of Indian Hills, Bible schools, seminaries, sister churches, and people around the world are blessed by his clear approach to Bible interpretation.
As technology advanced, it became possible to hear Gil’s Sunday morning and evening messages “live” over the internet. The response has been tremendous, allowing Gil’s Bible messages to be downloaded around the world, even in the most remote places on earth.
We are reminded of God’s goodness and the faithfulness of those who persevered before us. Their legacy has endured. Armed with a deep faith, courage, love for the Word, and the desire to do God’s will, they were instrumental in working out God’s plan for this local church.
Carried On By Faithful Men
On June 5, 2022, Jesse Randolph was installed as the church’s Senior Pastor (now Pastor-Teacher). Pastor Jesse aims to continue the pattern of biblical, God-honoring, expository teaching that has been faithfully established.
We praise God for what He has done and for putting us in the care of shepherds who love us and faithfully feed us from the Word. We are eager to see what God will do as we serve Him together, for His glory and by His grace. May He find us faithful!
