Commit and Grow

Large churches that stay vital and growing have several things in common. First, they ask a lot from their people.

First, a certainty about theology and scripture. Wishy washy approaches to the gospel and the Bible produce churches and members who are wishy washy about attendance, giving and loyally carrying out their assignments.

Second, they ask for a high commitment to the Lord and to the church. Low commitment churches and parachurch groups get exactly that along with a high percentage of "Free Riders" who get all the benefits with no cost to them. This produces a welfare mentality among the people in the pew. Healthy churches expect people to tithe, volunteer, support missions and outreach.

Third, they maintain a strong emphasis on evangelism and outreach. Many churches forget to evangelize or choose to stop evangelism after they get big. The give in to pressure from certain members who want all the resources given to make the current members more comfortable.

Fourth, they tell the new people and the veteran members about the core values and always attempt to make decisions with these values in mind.

Fifth, they equip their members to do the work of the ministry. This means that the people allowed to lead in Sunday services, teaching, eldership, etc are expected to know scripture and have high ministry skills. The distinction between laity and clergy is insignificant. This is why Wesley was so successful. He had high standards for leaders but an open door for sinners.

Sixth, they are not afraid to challenge people to commit or leave. Weak churches fear losing members. Strong leaders are unconcerned about losing people who do not support the values and vision.

Seventh, they have a strong desire to grow. Weak churches want to stay small and manageable.

The Very Large Church by Lyle Schaller

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