No one wants to be in a congregation that’s not growing. But planting and watering so that God will give the increase can be an incredibly disheartening proposition (1 Corinthians 3:6). It’s good to remember a few simple rules that can push a congregation in the right direction if they’re properly applied.

1. A growing church, for the members that are doing what’s necessary for growth feel God’s true sense of purpose (Colossians 2:6-7).
2. A happy church, for people are happy when they are focused and working for God’s cause (John 13:17; 1 Peter 1:8).
3. A peaceful church, for people that are busy in God’s cause don’t have opportunities to stir up trouble (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12).
4. A planning church, for nothing worthwhile is accomplished by accident, and plans are carefully made and followed faithfully (Romans 12:11).
5. A praying church, for the members realize the need of constantly being in direct touch with God (1 Peter 3:12).
6. A giving church, for we give to what we love and never consider it a hardship, nor do we complain because we are to give as we have been prospered (1 Corinthians 16:1-2).

A lot of researchers do deep dives into the sociological structure of American culture to obtain tidbits of information that’s helpful to church growth. But these simple tips will produce a congregation that’s active and vibrant. They’ll also yield a congregation that its members want to bring people to.

Kyle Campbell