Solutions for Church Growth
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Solutions for maintaining church growth start by addressing the immediate issues that are pertinent to them and not necessarily to other churches around them. It seems many have tried everything but to no avail, the unified body doesn't seem to be going anywhere. The numbers are small, the youth group nonexistent, and the small group is, well, not enough to make a group. If the members and elders will begin by recognizing where they want growth and things they are doing that prevent growth, then the solutions will begin to appear.
What are some solutions for maintaining church growth? One thing that might help to is to invite the community's youth. In today's day and age no one is more turned off by churches than those who don't feel welcomed. Many times it is today's teenager who feels that way. Maybe it is because of the way they dress-they might not fit the style of the congregation and what they are use to. Maybe the kid with the blue hair and nose piercing feels out of place in a church that consists of the average Joe.
A way to make this kid feel welcome is to show him that you aren't disgusted with his wardrobe or choice of transportation. Show him that his baggy pants and skateboard tricks aren't a nuisance, but an appreciated difference. Show them that the house of God respects and is willing to take a chance on their differences and not reject their status because of teenage personalities. Take the younger group seriously, inviting to feed each one and allowing a time share their heart. The important issue is to make sure these teenagers feel love and acceptance from those in the congregation and the result will be one of several solutions for maintaining church growth.
Christ indicated that the unlovely and unwanted are those the body of which the family of God is to consist. "When thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee" (Luke 14:13-14). Solutions for maintaining church growth begin by not making an exclusion list of who is NOT wanted in the church.
Think about it, the church house is a place where people want to find that hope and support needed. If the Body of Christ is full of hypocrites and people who aren't welcoming, then no one will want to join. In order to make growth happen, it is needful to weed out the hypocrisy, gossip, and backbiting. Have a gentle and welcoming spirit. Genuinely want to get to know and spend time with those who come through the door. Pray for opportunities to minister to those who are hurting as well as those who are in need and then solutions for growth fall into place without effort.
The best way to come up with solutions for church growth is to sit down as a congregation and brainstorm ways that will help get others in the door. Maybe it is through fellowship nights, outreaches to the neighborhood and community, church plays, or youth activities. No matter what is decided to do when it comes to striving to rebuild and hold membership, put on a spirit of love and hospitality like Christ.
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