Online Articles
Methods of Growth
The denominational world uses many methods to bring about growth of a congregation. Here are some such worldly methods:"Come as you are" method. This means that you won't have to give up sin and sinfulness. You can continue in adultery, still drink and swear, and you can keep your own moral standards.
"Have fun" method. Youth parties and games comprise a great deal of the total work of the congregation. Gymnasiums, social halls, kitchens and other such facilities are built. Banquet tables, sports equipment and uniforms, etc., are major church expenditures.
"Believe as you please" method. This requires no conviction. It allows you to take your choice: Was Jesus God's Son, or just an exceptionally good man? Is baptism immersion, or sprinkling? Is Jesus coming again, or not? Is there really a heaven and hell? Take your choice· believe as you please.
Naturally, by such processes many unlearned people (those who don't know what the Bible actually teaches) and many unstable ones (those who don't care what the Bible teaches) are led into such churches. Rapid growth is seen.
On the other hand, notice some scriptural methods that are designed to make a congregation grow:
"Practice what you preach" method. Preach the truth, the whole and unadulterated truth, and then live it out in the lives of the people who make up the congregation (see Romans 2:21-24).
"Let your light shine" method. The power of influence from lives of devoted Christians will attract others. Doing good to all men (Galatians 6:10) and keeping oneself unspotted from the world (James 1:27) makes a Christian useful and fruitful in bringing others to Christ.
"Be awake" method. Enthusiasm is contagious. Some people have just enough religion to make them miserable. The real Christian will be zealous and devoted (Revelation 3:19). His life will radiate with love for God and man. His influence will bring others to Christ through the gospel.
