HOW DOES A CHURCH GROW?
How can a church grow? In Paul's farewell address to the elders at Ephesus he outlined the formula for successful growth. In this messages he gives his concept of church growth which included:
1. Growth is possible when God's word is taught. Paul states: "For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God" (Acts 20:27). It is the gospel that is God's power to save (Rom. 1:16), "For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe" (1 Cor. 1:21).
2. This message must be sincerely taught. It is never to be a set formula or ritual, but most spring from the heart. Paul affirmed, "Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears" (Acts 20:31).
3. Be eager to work. There is no church growth without work. Growth never comes automatically. Someone has to work for it to be realized. Look at the tremendous example of this apostle. "I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly and from house to house" (Acts 20:20). "...Remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day. . ." (Acts 20:31).
4. The church must financially support the work by being consistent in giving. The manner God wants His work supported is regularly and consistently. This is a key factor to a strong church and her growth. "Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. 35 "I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive'" (Acts 20:34, 35).
5. The church must be faithful to the gospel. "So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified" (Acts 20:32).
JERRY JENKINS, ROEBUCK PARKWAY CHURCH OF CHRIST January 17 2010
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