22/01/2024
**Strategies for church growth, by Evg Matthew Lee**
First and foremost is prayer. You need to seek the Lord for the church growth strategy He has specific to you and your church. I say YOU and your church because in order for your church to grow you also need to grow - your character determines your capacity.
Secondly you need to equip your congregation for outreach. Outreach takes many forms like evangelism, welfare, community work etc. Not only should your church be evangelizing the community, but it should also be making a difference in your community. Community betterment should be a priority if you want to be a life-giving church.
Thirdly you need to ensure that your church services etc are set up in such a way that it creates an environment conducive to making first timers feel welcome and comfortable. What good is it inviting someone to a banquet if the banquet hall isn't prepared to receive them? If you evangelize the community but they don't feel welcome and comfortable when they start coming to your church, then chances are they won't stay...
Lastly, once you've done all of the above, you need to have programs in place for the newcomers to become part of the church community (like small groups) as well as to grow spiritually (like offering them short courses etc).
There is nothing quick fix for church growth. If you want sustainable growth, you have to put in the effort... I believe that if you effectively apply the above principles, you will see your church growing continually!
Ps: The above information is an extract from a course I've been developing with my mentor, who has over 25 years of church planting experience. The course is titled "From good to great - 50 though provoking questions to help establish and grow you and your ministry". If you would like more information about the course, please send an email to [email protected]
