SECRETS OF CHURCH GROWTH
Memorise: Praising God, and having
favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as
should be saved. Acts 2:47
God is interested in the growth of His church, be it
local, national or global; whatever the denominational label. Growth comes as a
result of the mercy of God connected with the pastors and ministers developing
the mind of Christ. Growth comes to those who allow themselves to be filled
more and more with the love of God and who are not willing to let anybody
perish. The church is a living organism. God’s plan for His church is growth
–biblical growth. God is not interested in fishing without catching (Luke
5:4-11), lost sheep that are not brought back into the fold (Matthew 18:11-14),
a lost coin not sought for (Luke 15:8-10) or of ripe harvest not reaped
(Matthew 9:36-38).
Ministers of the gospel sometimes lament that their
churches do not grow. They present inabilities, weaknesses and shortcomings as
reasons for lack of growth in their local churches. For example, many complain
of lack education. This is not tenable. God can use the unlearned for His work
as seen in Act 4:13:
“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter
and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they
marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.”
What matters to God is sweet fellowship with Him. Some
complain that they lack communication skills. This is also not acceptable
because God can put His word in your mouth (Exodus 4:10-12). Another complaint
is lack of experience. The scripture confirms that God sometimes commissions
inexperienced children (Jeremiah 1:4-10). Some complain of lack of equipment
and resources as reasons their churches are not growing. To such people I will
say, “Let God get hold of you”. When God gets hold of you, materials and money
are not problems to Him. God can do mush with little. He can do everything with
nothing. Some complain of lack of support and encouragement. This could be
true, but God’s love and His promises are enough support for your church
growth. God wants your church to grow. He gives growth. A growing church should
however resemble the New Testament church. It should be one whose membership
and work are opened only to those who are saved. A growing church should be one
that continues steadfastly in fellowship, study and prayer. Each believer
amongst them should grow and become strong in the Lord. The church that will
grow must be a studying church, a sharing church and a praying church with
manifestations of signs, wonders and miracles, just like the early church.
Action Point
Pray to God and trust Him for growth in
your church.
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