THREE REASONS A CHURCH DOES NOT GROW

 

By Ken Blue

“…. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 2:47.

It may surprise you that there are pastors who do not seek or desire their church to grow beyond a certain number. There are several reasons for their “non growth” mentality; we will give the three we believe to be most prevalent.

Wrong to seek growth-

There are a few pastors who believe that seeking growth is carnal and should not be among any ministry objectives of the church. They believe that prayer, Bible preaching and witnessing is what God requires and all that is necessary. They are opposed to any and all forms of activities, events, or promotions to attract the lost. The church, to them, is intended for the saved only. The only acceptable outreach is door-to-door soul winning.

Like a small church-

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A small church is a wonderful thing, as long as it is large enough to pay you a salary. A small church is like a family; everyone knows everyone, and they all know the pastor. He receives all the attention and praise for things that go well. He is also able to give attention to all the members.

In many cases, the pastor and the people like this arrangement. They practice “doublespeak.” While they speak of winning the lost, they seldom give room to new families. The glue that holds the small group together is the cement that keeps others out. Everyone is happy and content. All that is lacking is a fireplace where this wonderful little family can gather for fellowship.

Fear growth-

There are those who would like for their churches to grow, but fear keeps it from happening. Their greatest fear is their inability to pastor a larger group. I have witnessed a few preachers and Christian workers with this phobia. If you pay close attention, you will observer them sabotage any growth that is threatening.

This fear is based in insecurity. The reason for the insecure is the pastor has not learned the skills of organization, management, and leadership. Ignorance of these is enough to cause fear in the heart of any pastor. That is why it is important to learn how to pastor, in addition to ones preaching ability.

It may be difficult for you to believe that there are pastors and churches who do not want their church to grow beyond a certain number. Believe me, they exist. You may be one of them. If so, tackle your roadblock, remove the fear, and grow for the Lord.