Church growth is a hot topic. With the decline of some churches and the desire by others to grow churches as a hub of their community, many are searching for the magical technique to achieve this.
Yet the principles are clear: building relationships. The Bible talks in terms of relationship, not rules or regulations. For example, the Ten Commandments came out of the covenant relationship established by God with His people. Jesus’ new covenant is explained in terms of loving relationship. His command to go into the world and make disciples is based around relationships as people go about their lives.
Churches that have found growth, in both numbers and maturity, have used this Biblical template in a strategic way. They have not taken people out of their community groups to put them in a church position but have seen their church’s mission as training, equipping and commissioning members to go into their community to serve.
One of the best examples is the power of sport. Aussies love their sport. The sporting club is a vital hub of our society. From Little Athletics to the local surf club, sporting clubs are the place to meet and build relationships. Governments have recognized this and use sport to build local communities and spread their own agenda items, such as responsible use of alcohol and mental health programs.
Churches have also sought to use sport to build and serve their communities. Many church members have used their love of sport and love of people to serve in their local club. These intentional relationships do not always convert to more attendees or increased offerings at church but the focus is more on building relationships and doing life with others. Through these relationships God makes disciples.
Watch the following Missional Community YouTube clip as an example of the way churches can grow. Start a conversation with your church leadership on ways you can serve your community by training and releasing your church members into sporting clubs.
Jeremy Dover is a former sports scientist and Pastor
Jeremy Dover's previous articles may be viewed at https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/jeremy-dover1.html
And https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/jeremy-dover.html
Jeremy Dover is a former sports scientist and Pastor
Jeremy Dover's previous articles may be viewed at https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/jeremy-dover1.html
And https://www.pressserviceinternational.org/jeremy-dover.html
