Churches are organic things, and like most organic things, they grow up-and-down, and east-to-west. I've done some thinking on growth, and I've come to at least one conclusion: that we need to develop a greenhouse for growth - that Scripture, holy friendships, and opportunities to be formed into Christ's likeness are the vitamins, fertilizer and plant stakes for good growth.
Acts 2:42-47 gives a blueprint for growth. After the "growth spurt" of Pentecost, the young church of at least 3,120 went into action.
They were devoted to the apostles' teaching, and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.
Devoted. Fully committed.
They grew up by being consistent in teaching, taking the Lord's Supper, and grew in intimacy by prayer.
Everyone was filled with awe, and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.
All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to everyone as he had need.
They grew together in love, in compassion for one another. Their practical expressions of love were expressed in the community of faith.
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.
They grew out of the confines of the temple, which was open space anyway, into the wider neighborhoods where their witness was public and immediate. Their "glad and sincere hearts" were a sure-fire witness.
And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.
They grew more as the result of a genuine love, a sincere local fellowship, multiplication of ministries through the power of the Holy Spirit. The infant church was attractive, as the light of the love of Jesus fired them all up.
If you would like to have more of this kind of focus, drive and energy in your present ministry, contact me at berachahleadership@gmail.com We can chat a bit on how to come along side you.
be blessed today.
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