In the coming days I plan to post key points from a wonderful little book called ALL CHURCHES GREAT AND SMALL: 6O IDEAS FOR IMPROVING YOUR CHURCH'S MINISTRY. Written by Kirk and Rosie Farnsworth, co-pastors of The Gathering Church in Kingston,Washington. It celebrates the unique ability of the small church to be truly great. In a world where so often "bigger is better" is the predominant cry - this book celebrates the intimate, free, life enriching spirit of the small congregation. The authors say, "Don't buy into the bogus sales pitch that it's all about more bodies, bucks, and buildings." While I support growth - when it is not just for "growths" sake - I agree that there is much to be said for the way the small church does things. In fact - have you noticed that it is the "mega" churches who are all jumping on the "small group" bandwagon - so that their ministries can touch and motivate people in a more intimate way and effective way? So - let's "celebrate small" - and explore how it can lead to truly great ministry.
Small-church advantages: Ten Vital Qualities for Identifying Your Church's Strengths
1. Pastoral Leadership is faithful to the biblical model.
Everyone is a minister.
The appeal of size, power, and influence is resisted.
2. Being a church family is a reality.
Everyone is included.
Church gatherings are communal as well as relational.
3. Members live in covenant with one another.
They focus on disciple-making, mutual accountability, solemn commitment to
the body of Christ, and a strong sense of belonging in God's family.
Church governance is free from politics.
4. Everyone's spiritual gifts are used in ministry.
5. Christian education is viewed as a means for people to become apprentices to Jesus
to live out Christ's kingdom imperatives.
Education takes place within a family context rather than creating separate generational
cultures.
6. The congregation is free to be innovative in worship.
7. Prayer is foundational for everything the church does.
The church is a house of prayer, with corporate prayer as the cornerstone.
8. Stewardship structures eliminate the pressure to give but encourage the pleasure of giving.
The church also adjusts its corporate lifestyle to become a biblically faithful, giving community.
9. A Spirit-formed church is coming into being.
As the congregation abides in the Holy Spirit, his presence and power pervade the life of the church.
10. Relationship evangelism and church multiplication become a part of the corporate DNA.
