If you spend any time in today’s Christian landscape, you’ll notice a trend: ministries growing into brands, leaders becoming influencers, and churches building extensive platforms. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with growth or influence, it’s worth asking—when does a ministry become an empire, and is that always a blessing?
When Growth Becomes the Goal
Jesus never discouraged growth. In fact, He sent His disciples out to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). But He also warned about the dangers of misplaced priorities. When the mission shifts from introducing people to Jesus to expanding our own reach, we risk missing the mark.
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” — Matthew 6:19-20
A ministry empire can start with the best intentions—reaching more people, providing more resources, serving more communities. But if we’re not careful, it can become about protecting the brand, increasing numbers, and building something for ourselves rather than for Christ.
The Subtle Shift
It’s a subtle shift, but a dangerous one. The early church grew rapidly, but their focus was always on Jesus. In Acts, we see believers sharing everything, supporting one another, and pointing people to the risen Lord—not to their own achievements. Dietrich Bonhoeffer put it simply: “The church is not a building, but a people.”
When ministry becomes more about the institution than the individuals, we lose sight of the heart of the gospel.
Blessing or Burden?
Growth can be a blessing when it means more people are being introduced to Jesus, more needs are being met, and more communities are being transformed. But it becomes a burden when it creates pressure to perform, maintain appearances, or serve the growth itself rather than the people. If ministers begin to feel more like CEOs than shepherds, or if congregations become more focused on programs than on people, it’s time for a heart check.
Guarding the Mission
So how do we keep growth from becoming a burden? By constantly coming back to the mission—introducing people to Jesus. Every platform, every resource, every program should serve that end. If it doesn’t, it’s time to reevaluate.
Ask yourself:
- Is this about making Jesus known, or making our ministry known?
- Are we celebrating changed lives, or just growing numbers?
- Are we building disciples, or building an empire?
Action Steps
- Evaluate: Take an honest look at your ministry’s priorities. What gets the most attention and resources?
- Refocus: Recommit to the mission of introducing people to Jesus. Let every program and platform serve that goal.
- Simplify: Don’t be afraid to let go of things that don’t fit the mission—even if they’re successful by worldly standards.
Final Thought
A ministry empire can be a blessing when it’s built on the right foundation. But if we lose sight of Jesus, it quickly becomes a burden. Let’s build ministries that point people to Him, not to ourselves.
Just some thoughts,
