Sunday, January 13, 2008

Church Growth


The Lord continues to do a great work in our church. We had two people join today, which makes 18 total !!! In 13 weeks God has moved in our church and community in a powerful way. I believe we are seeing just a glipse of what the Lord wants to do. I told the congregation this morning that our church will grow. I can say that with authority from Scripture. Jesus said that He would build the church and that the gates of Hades would not prevail over it. Church growth is not a modern theory or a new trend. Church growth is biblical. Healthy things will grow. Healthy hair, healthy children, healthy plants, are things which naturally grow. As long as our church remains healthy it will grow. The church remains healthy when it obeys the Lord. I believe 2008 will be a banner year for First Baptist Oil City and it won't be because of us or an event or even a campaign. It will be because of the work of the Holy Spirit in our church. PRAISE HIM!

1 comment:

captp said...

Greetings old friend:

You've come a long way since arguing politics in French class. Glad to see you in the ministry. Preaching is so much better than debating.

I agree about church growth. God does a great work.

Keep in mind that the church, prior to growth must determine to be healthy environment.

You have to have the church process in place before you bring new people in. The environment must be healthy in order for new Souls to develop into healthy Saints, becoming valiant Servants of God.

Here is a book that really contributed to my understanding on church growth, not just in the numerical kind - but among individuals and concerning the numerical.

http://resources.enewhope.org/store/product_info.php?cPath=22&products_id=805

Just ending three years in ministry. Ready for number four.

Although, I must admit that I'm a confirmed Wesleyan/Armenian. Just in case your in the mood for one of those classic French class discussions.

May the Lord bless and keep you.

Sean