hi I have been attending this church for 2 years. I am fourteen and at first I thought that this church was very "clicky". Meaning that there was small groups of people that had there friends, and they never went out to go find new people. Idlewild realized this! So they really started changing there act for new comers although still not the best for new believers I think that this church is great for all ages. (except youth group). Now most of the people at Idlewild are very friendly however the staff on the youth group is mean and unfair. There are not many friendly people in the youth group especially on staff. Although this does make me sad I feel that most teenagers are like this. But when the staff is joining them treating us like the bully's treat us at church, makes God sad. However I still love my church even with there flaws they still have an amazing campus and still by far the best church I have ever been to. Amazing Christmas Programs, Pastors, Beliefs, People, and fellowship :) PS: We've visited 45 churches around Florida read more

This is an amazing Bible based Church. Godly people who are genuine. Edgar Aponte is Pastor. He is very knowledgable and gives practical application of the Bible. Please come! You will be abundantly blessed. Not kidding read more

A community of loving, caring members that are "the church". Theological, sound biblical teaching from stellar pastors with knowledge of the word of God. They are very forward on teaching the truth of God's word. Small groups are a way of having the " small church" experience. This is essential for the growth and community of the church. The church are the people, not the building. Highly recommend for Christian biblical truth and growth as a Christian. read more

Most certainly in the business of preaching the word of God. Love our Pastor Edgar! Many options for deeper involvement with smaller bible fellowship groups for those who may think it is just too big. We have been attending since 1998 and feel the love of Jesus more and more as we continue to grow in our faith. As much as we would love to move some day to a less populated area, the major downside would be to have to find another church that we love so much, like Idlewild. Thanks Dr. Randy Armstrong for inviting us back in 1998. read more

Everything in the management department needs to be change. Yes, management, this is a business not a Church. They destroy my daughter's trust in a religious organization and people, the same way they did it to me. Beware, they only care about your money and they will make you feel like trash when they don't like something. I have an 19 years age gap relationship that I started two years ago and as soon as they found out about my relationship they treated us like if we were sick people. Eloy Rodriguez started indirectly making out of line comment after comment relating to our relationship in small group when we were participating. Eloy requested a meeting with me and when I met him we just started talking about my fiancée like if she was nothing, disrespectful comments towards me then he asked me to pray after all that, no thanks. Just crazy, then Reno asked me about personal information and about her like we were criminals or illegally in this country. Several others so call "leaders" did the same like Chuck and others. I asked for a meeting with Edgar Aponte after so many harassment and it was denied. My daughters don't want to know anything about this church or any other and I have NO respect for any of those people, they are garbage!!!!! Late after we left the church I learned even more stuff. It was a well coordinated action plan to get us out. They just love fake people, it doesn't matter how bad you are, just act like a religious, they will love that. We are a good family with a strong work and christian ethic (not religious) and what they did is wrong. Be careful, they are two faces and may cost you loose your faith. read more

Excellent, more traditional music with an Orchestra and full choir. I know almost every song they sing. The pastor is really good, keeps my attention and gives some really interesting insight as he preaches chapter by chapter. The welcome you get is awesome - they walked us everywhere we needed to go and accompanied my teen to the teenager group. She loves that she's in an all girls group on Sundays and a full group on Wednesday nights. We feel like this is a good fit for our family. We are kind of getting tired of churches with fog machines and crazy lighting... This church is HUGE but totally easy to fit in and find groups. Excellent teen group as well! read more

Idlewild Baptist Church - Main worship area - Churches Near Me - Lutz, Florida

Would choose 0 stars but have to pick something. Signed my son up for soccer this season. Did so before their cut-off, and my 11 year old along with 4 other kids were not placed on a team. They claim that their athletic program is a ministry. Haven't come across many ministries that turn their backs on anyone, especially a kid. He was heartbroken that he wasn't going to be able to play his favorite sport with his closest friends, all who weren't turned away. Would never recommend them to anyone who asks. read more

I am not a member of this church as I go to another denomination but my friends are members for many years. We have often attended the Christmas program to set the stage for a beautiful holiday season. This year I bought tickets at $20 a pop which, by the professional presentation was well worth much more than that!! This 2023 Christmas production was absolutely incredible! It cannot be described in a way that justifies the beautiful joy we experienced because of it! All members of the production are church members. There were hundreds of amazingly talented individuals from adults to teens to children, from professional orchestra members, singers, actors and dances. The technical visuals were extraordinary. The play writers, and all staff couldn't have been better. All in it was so professional but yet the message was so well presented! We are so grateful for having shared in this experience. A great reminder of the true spirit of the Christmas season! read more

Well, we have a new pastor! Pastor Aponte preaches no nonsense straight from God's word. I expect great things. Now, if he gets rid of a guitar or two and gives the drums some time off, I'll update this review higher. Hint, hint, pastor? read more

Idlewild has become our church family. God lead us to Idlewild a year ago and it was the best decision. They truly love and embrace everyone that walks through their doors. read more

We miss you paster Ken. We like the new pastor but he is so average at best. The church had peaked under Ken who was an amazing leader and inspirational leader. Every week with Paster Ken helped me set my to take on life's challenges the next week, and inspire me to work harder and smarter and be humble, and do Gods will. I miss you. My family misses you. I am disappointed in the church pick of the new senior pastor. Good guy but not qualified to fill the role. The church is going to lose the membership with him. He isn't the inspirational leader this church needs. He doesn't provide the gift of delivering the spiritual message that we as parishioners need on a weekly basis read more

Amazing graduation celebration at Idlewild Baptist Church yesterday. We applaud the pastors and volunteers for their creativity for hosting a drive through parade with graduates, family and friends. A day of excitement, horns, balloons, signs, big smiles and great memories. Even during these uncertain times, God provided a way! Our 18 yr. twins proudly walked across the stage in cap and gown to meet Pastor Ken Whitten and Pastor Reno. They received a gift and an uplifting letter. Parents received a congratulations letter that brought tears to my eyes. Our strong faith in the Lord and Idlewild have been our foundation. May God bless the staff, teachers, ministries, members and mentors for being the difference in our lives. read more

Idlewild Baptist Church - Congratulation graduates Nicklaus and Gianna Zito! - Churches Near Me - Lutz, Florida

This is a HUGE church. However, once you go regularly, serve in some capacity, join a Bible study or small group/support group, it becomes much smaller. The people are friendly & welcoming. You have to be willing to visit a few times to get to know the layout. If you sit on the first level, it will feel smaller. Great children's ministry for all ages. Safe, secure, & background checked. So many options for adults, too- throughout the week. Services on Sundays & Wednesdays. Lots of activities at other times. Idlewild does so much for the community, too. It is very Bible-based. I enjoy Pastor Ken's sermons, but the people of the church are what make it so wonderful. I feel like the members are genuine & caring. You just have to put yourself out there a bit. I've been attending for a year & love seeing people I know when I attend a service or event. I come from a traditional church (Methodist), so I like when we sing some old hymns - but mostly the music has been more modern. I would say overall though, Idlewild is more traditional than a church like Grace Family- so it works well for me. I'm not a fan of going to a church in a shopping center/strip mall myself. I personally also prefer dressing up for church, out of respect. At Idlewild, I find most people are dressed up vs. in jeans. But all are welcome. read more

Fantastic children's ministry. Large church but feels smaller if you sit on the main floor. Everyone is so kind & welcoming. I would say most dress up for service, which we love. We prefer a more traditional, conservative experience. The pastor speaks the truth, straight from the Bible. No wishy-washy message about feelings. Coffee shop is fun for a cheap frappé & a great way to mingle with other believers. They also have a ton of Bible study classes/groups. The Christmas show was fantastic. Top notch. read more

Fantastic children's ministry. Large church but feels smaller if you sit on the main floor. Everyone is so kind & welcoming. I would say most dress up for service, which we love. We prefer a more traditional, conservative experience. The pastor speaks the truth, straight from the Bible. No wishy-washy message about feelings. Coffee shop is fun for a cheap frappé & a great way to mingle with other believers. They also have a ton of Bible study classes/groups. The Christmas show was fantastic. Top notch. read more

Love my church and church family! Here tonight for our Thanksgiving service and then we will be lighting the Christmas tree in the gatharia. It's beginning to look alot like Christmas! Come see our Christmas Presentation! read more

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What a beautiful church beautiful song service, a kind pastor that teaches the word in truth It is blessed by the Lord and you can feel it

Wonderful faith based, bible teaching church that does a lot for the community. We are not members of this congregation but have attended several of their programs from their July 4th celebrations, an event on Halloween for families to avoid going out trick or treating and several other occasions. We recently signed our boys up for their sports league. We heard great things about it from friends. We did not know what to expect because it's a "church league" but this league did not disappoint! Very well organized, all around well put together programs. The best part is they include a mini bible study session in each practice/game. The coaches are parents and members of the church, and there still was a competitive aspect to the league. We tried flag football this season and are signed up for baseball next. We've even run into the famous Coach Dungy! If you're looking for a faith based, competitive sports league sign up! read more

Idlewild Baptist Church - Flag football - Churches Near Me - Lutz, Florida

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I absolutely love this house of God! Completely transparent accountability of funds, amazing Head Pastor truly teaching Gods word! Truly believes and practices church wide the mission statement " giving ourselves daily to help each one live in the rescuing power of the gospel of Jesus Christ". Awesome children's programs and mission opportunities. No pressure - just truly spirit people! read more

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I just read John J review. I must say I was Shocked to read that. I'm not a member. I however have been there in many occasions. I never got this impression in the least. I find a lot of people think it's Terrible to pass a offering plate. But churches have employees/utilities to pay Too. And the pastor seems as genuine as you can get. read more

We have been members for many years. Each time our family was in need Idlewild has stepped up and helped us with a show of support. I want to thank Pastor Whitten and Pastor Dotson for supporting us during my father in laws recent unexpected passing. Pastor Dotson presided over the funeral and delivered such a moving powerful message. I even had a family member who is agnostic say "they thought the service was far reaching to all people and they acknowledged his words about Christ". This was a blessing after praying for this family member for many years to find Christ. Everyone was moved by the service and words of this young pastor. Our Spanish class was so supportive and attended the funeral. I am so thankful to be a part of this SSL class for the past year and a member of this Church. Thank you Pastor Whitten for your personal phone call and sincere support of our family. The Man-Son-Hing Family read more

We've been members in a few churches. Some good, some great, and one a nightmare. Idlewild is one of the most spirit-led body of the believers, reaching out to a lost world both practically, lovingly, and spiritually. When you go to church to worship God, AND walk away fed and full, it allows you to go into all the world and share the gospel, the GOOD NEWS of Jesus Christ! The building is huge but the community feels close, especially when you join a small group/Sunday school. Romans 6:23 John 3:16 1 John 4:19 Romans 5:8 1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Peter 4:8 read more

A wonderful church serving many, many people. They have so many connect opportunities for folks to get involved with, heal, grow spiritually, serve others and God. They are the mission statement. We love the church, the messages during worship, and being involved in group on Monday night. The music is outstanding week to week. Pastor Ken is a God send to all and his true passion for God is expressed weekly in his sermons. I love the church and am so thankful for all they do locally and in missions. God bless this church, those who serve, and all mankind. After all, we're here to serve God. Be kind to one another. read more

So many wonderful people to be surrounded by. Love Pastor Ken and His Wife they are Amazing people!! This is like a home away from home. Come and see what Idlewild is all about!! read more

Great pastor. Friendly people. Committed to missions/ serving others. I would get into a small group for connecting with others. And great kids and youth programs. read more

I absolutely loved this church. It's huge, but small if that makes sense. There is a real sense of community there. There are so many different programs and activities for all different types of interests. I am truly, truly sad and pained that I can't regularly attend anymore, because I moved out of state. The children's programs were wonderful, and they have lots of events and ministries. This is the best church I have ever attended. They have a great recreation ministry, all different types of sports and there is no sense of competition but more so of camaraderie, which is great for the littles. There is also a lot of opportunities to serve in other communities in the form of prison visitation ministry, helping the poor/needy etc. I LOVE this church!!!!! read more

4th, fireworks and food trucks!! There was a little bit of a hiccup with the beginning of the fireworks but they worked it out quickly and it was a great show. The variety of food trucks present was awesome! Rain or shine, it was a great event. read more

I am replying to the review by John J, below. John, I am so sorry you seem to have had a bad experience, however I'm not sure you're thinking of the right church. Idlewild doesn't have parking areas named after Disney characters. Also, there is a Mission Café that serves coffee and provides an informal meeting space, but it isn't Starbucks. The pastors are very kind and humble people, most of whom drive minivans instead of "Lamborghinis & Hummers." I would have an issue with a church such as you describe, and I wouldn't blame you for leaving a church like that! Idlewild had to move into its new building around 2005 because membership had grown so large that five services were necessary to accommodate the congregation. I know they resisted moving until it was absolutely necessary. I hope you attend a service or an event at Idlewild It's a Bible-based, Christ-centered church with many imperfect but sincere people sharing their Christian walk together. You would be very welcome! read more

I went here for a concert once last year around Christmas. The facilities are truly amazing. I am really into like sound and audio tech, so I was drooling just looking at how all of their AV and Tech is setup. Pretty cool to see it. The facilities are top notch, and the people treated me very well and kindly while I was there. I would definitely suggest this church if you are currently church-shopping. read more