Yesterday I asked what makes for a successful church. I was astonished to have 5 answers by the time I woke up this morning.
Now I'll ask my follow up question:
When you look at churches that "everyday" people define as successful, what is it that got them there? Restated bluntly, what causes a church to grow at a rate that makes it a mega-church? Is it usually one of the things stated by the 5 that responded yesterday, or is it something different?
Please trust that I am not implying that only or all mega-churches are "successful" or that any church's strive should be to attain "mega" status. I'm just curious as to how some churches develop, and what is drawing people to them.
I think one thing that helps churches grow is a dynamic pastor that has humor and practicality to everyday life in his sermons. The worship service, mainly the music, also has to be appealing. If the music or minister make you yawn, then people will stay home. Also, word of mouth to friends and acquaintances by those attending the church and media attention to the church help to bring people in.
ReplyDeleteBeing cynical at times, it seems that some churches grow because they offer leisure/entertainment activities for members. Is that good or bad? I'm not saying it's either but, a large church can provide recreational activities for a broad membership base, not narrow. I think interacting with Christians in a "safe" environment is good but, not the reason for a churches being. If those recreational activities help draw people to Christ, and help them stay there, then good. If they only provide recreation, then they are not achieving the desired result. People are frail and "human", they want to congregate with similar types a lot. That's not necessarily bad but, it isn't necessarily great either.
ReplyDeleteGroup dynamics is an interesting issue of study. Groups grow because of similar beliefs, ideas, desires, etc. Does that apply to Churches? Of course. With humans involved, problems are natural. Do groups grow when the message, or presenter, is not what they believe? Probably not. Are people willing to allow for differences of opinion? Maybe, do they like it, not always.
In todays world, we've seen cults, and tragic results. How does a dyanmic pastor keep the message on Christ, and not his own personality? It's difficult!!!
Good, mega churches apply their resources to spreading Christs words through a variety of methods, groups, encounters, activities, sports, etc. so as to evangalize. As long as the focus remains on Christ, and not the specific Church, OK, use those resources for His benefit. Share those resources with smaller churches.
SPREAD THE WORD.