I have a large number of Churches who will get this missive. I post it because there may be some who may read this blog and not be on "The LIST". If you are are a church leader, pastor or elder and you are a bit fuzzy on what it takes to make a great church prosper in this day and age, it's not that complicated. Do these 5 things and do them consistently, you will have a great church, loyal passionate members and enthusiastic growth.
Provide people with an identity, sense of purpose and self-worth:
People need a place of ministry and contribution where what they do really matters to the Kingdom as well as to them. People join not for what they can get but for what they can give. (not just money)
Provide a feeling of belonging:
People need to be part of a fellowship with people they respect and with whom they like to work. This is not just being friendly, this is being a "Fellow" in the acedemic sense. Not a them and me. I'm one of them. I belong here. I'm a part of the team. The mindset goal is "When I am here I feel like I can contribute and that I am among the competent and respected of my generation."
Create an environment built on direction, structure, and order:
People need fellowship where they feel secure. Vision, persistence and a Holy Ghost led Leader will make the day. People need to have confidence in who is in charge. They must have a sense that as a part of your church, that they are going somewhere and there must be a plan they can buy into. It must be fully submitted to the Spirit of God and there must be a sense that it's being directed with confidence and authority. Direction Structure and Order = Vision, Persistence and Leadership.
Give people a voice:
There is a destiny for each person in the Kingdom that is ordained of God. People have a sense as they grow what that is. As a leader your job is to help them identify it, develop it and release it. People need to have the capacity to express themselves in their giftings. They must be heard and heeded in the area of the ministry God has given them. Knowing the difference is the key. If a person is gifted in Mercy but comes with an opinion regarding finance you must hear them but understand that the mercy sometimes will trump the finance message. People must have confidence what they believe, hear and say matters and makes a difference in the assembly.
Provide the chance to develop:
Grow or die. That's the way it is in nature. A thing is either growing or it's dying. There is no stasis in nature unless it's dead. It's true in the kingdom as well. If your people aren't growing, being challenged, discipled, stretched, pushed, pulled, and sometimes even offended by the whole thing they are dying. People need the opportunity to confront increasing challenges, learn new skills, develop new disciplines, release new anointings and advance in the Kingdom over time. People are drawn to places they can grow, develop and contribute. Sameness and Stasis is living death. A stone can look alive and solid but it's dead. Don't let that be the Church you lead.
Now, go get one of those Easy Buttons from Staples. This 5 point strategy for Church Growth isn't unproven, for the most part in little anemic churches it's untried.
Try it, you'll like it. What is the only obstacle in the way? Your fear and pride.
Just do it. Push the button.
"That Was Easy"
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