CHURCH GROWTH

Bible Study: CHURCH GROWTH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 2:47
"praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."

Supporting Texts:
Matthew 28:19-20
Ephesians 4:15-16
1 Corinthians 3:6-7
Colossians 1:6
2 Peter 3:9

INTRODUCTION:
Church growth is not just about increasing numbers but about spiritual and numerical growth that reflects God’s glory. It involves the expansion of the Kingdom of God, the deepening of faith within the congregation, and the reaching of new souls. This Bible study explores the biblical principles, strategies, and practices that can lead to effective church growth, focusing on both spiritual maturity and evangelism.

1. THE IMPORTANCE OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY IN CHURCH GROWTH

For a church to grow, its members must be spiritually mature and equipped to fulfil God’s purpose.

a) Discipleship as the Foundation: Church growth begins with the discipleship of believers, equipping them to make other disciples (Matthew 28:19-20).

b) Growing in Unity: Spiritual maturity leads to unity within the church, where believers work together for the common goal of expanding God's Kingdom (Ephesians 4:15-16).

c) Engaging in Prayer and Worship: A praying and worshipping church is one that invites God’s presence, creating an atmosphere where growth can occur (Acts 2:42-47).

d) Fostering a Culture of Holiness: A church that strives for holiness and sanctification becomes a light to the world, attracting others to Christ (1 Peter 1:16).

e) Biblical Example: The early church in Acts grew because they were united in prayer, teaching, and fellowship, and they continued to grow in faith and numbers (Acts 2:42-47).

2. EVANGELISM AND OUTREACH AS KEY TO CHURCH GROWTH
Evangelism and outreach are central to the growth of the church, reaching out to those who do not know Christ.

a) The Great Commission: Jesus’ command to go and make disciples of all nations is the driving force behind church growth (Matthew 28:19-20).

b) Sharing the Gospel Boldly: Church growth happens when members are committed to sharing the Gospel in their communities, workplaces, and beyond (Acts 1:8).

c) Reaching the Unreached: Church growth is not limited to existing members but includes reaching those outside the church, including non-believers and unchurched individuals (Luke 14:23).

d) Using Every Available Platform: Evangelism in the modern age includes using digital media, social networks, and traditional methods like door-to-door and outreach events to spread the Gospel (Colossians 1:6).

e) Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul’s ministry was centered on evangelism, preaching the Gospel wherever he went, leading to significant growth in the early church (Acts 13:46-49).

3. CREATING A WELCOMING AND INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT
Church growth thrives in an environment where people feel welcomed, valued, and loved.

a) Practicing Hospitality: A welcoming spirit is key to attracting and retaining newcomers. People should feel loved and accepted when they visit the church (Romans 15:7).

b) Embracing Diversity: A healthy church includes people from all backgrounds, races, and walks of life, reflecting the Kingdom of God (Galatians 3:28).

c) Building Relationships: Growth occurs when church members build genuine relationships with each other, offering support, encouragement, and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25).

d) Addressing Needs: A church that actively meets the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of its members creates an environment where people are more likely to stay and grow (James 1:27).

e) Biblical Example: The church in Acts grew because of the love and fellowship they shared with one another, ensuring no one lacked anything (Acts 4:32-35).

4. PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR SERVICE AND INVOLVEMENT
Church members should be actively involved in ministry, which fosters a sense of purpose and responsibility.

a) Developing Spiritual Gifts: Every believer is gifted by the Holy Spirit for service, and the church should provide opportunities to develop and use these gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-7).

b) Encouraging Volunteerism: When people serve in various ministries, they become more invested in the church and its mission (1 Peter 4:10).

c) Fostering Leadership: A growing church develops leaders who can help others grow in their faith, serve, and lead others (2 Timothy 2:2).

d) Community Outreach and Service Projects: Engaging in community service projects allows the church to make a tangible impact and serve as a witness to the world (Matthew 5:16).

e) Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul developed leaders and encouraged believers to use their gifts in service to God and others, ensuring the church continued to grow (Ephesians 4:11-13).

5. CONTINUOUSLY ADAPTING AND INNOVATING
A church must adapt to changing cultural contexts while staying true to its mission and message.

a) Understanding the Context: Effective church growth requires understanding the culture and context in which the church operates and tailoring the outreach and message accordingly (1 Corinthians 9:22).

b) Embracing Technology: Using technology for communication, ministry, and evangelism helps the church reach a broader audience (Colossians 4:5-6).

c) Adapting Ministry Styles: While the message of the Gospel remains unchanged, churches must adapt their ministry styles to engage with different generations and communities (1 Corinthians 9:20-23).

d) Evaluating and Improving: A church must regularly assess its strategies and ministry effectiveness, making adjustments as necessary to remain relevant and impactful (Proverbs 15:22).

e) Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul adapted his ministry approach to different groups, using various methods to reach different cultures and communities (Acts 17:22-34).

6. NURTURING NEW BELIEVERS AND DISCIPLING THEM
Church growth is sustained when new believers are nurtured and discipled in their faith.

a) Early Discipleship: New believers must be taught foundational truths about the faith, including the importance of prayer, Bible study, and fellowship (Matthew 28:20).

b) Creating a Discipleship Pathway: A church should have clear steps for discipling new believers, helping them grow in knowledge, character, and service (2 Timothy 2:2).

c) Providing Small Groups: Small groups provide a setting for deep relationships, accountability, and spiritual growth (Acts 2:46).

d) Mentorship and Accountability: Mature believers should mentor new Christians, guiding them through challenges and encouraging spiritual growth (Titus 2:3-5).

e) Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul established churches and ensured new believers were grounded in the faith through teaching and discipleship (Acts 14:21-23).

CONCLUSION:
Church growth is a process that requires commitment, faith, and active participation from every believer. It involves not only increasing numbers but also fostering spiritual maturity, outreach, and service. As we focus on evangelism, unity, discipleship, and serving others, we can trust that God will bring the growth. Let us work together, under God’s guidance, to grow His Church in number and in spiritual depth.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help us to grow in unity and love as a church.

2. Father, empower us to effectively evangelise and reach those who do not know You.

3. Lord, teach us to disciple new believers and help them grow in faith.

4. Father, grant us wisdom to embrace new strategies for reaching and growing the church.

5. Lord, strengthen our leaders and give them the wisdom to guide the church towards growth.

6. Father, provide resources for outreach and ministry within the church.

7. Lord, help us to build a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

8. Father, fill us with a passion for serving others and meeting the needs of our community.

9. Lord, empower us to use our spiritual gifts for the growth and edification of the church.

10. Father, bring revival to our church, and may we see a great harvest of souls.