The New Testament speaks of growing churches differently than men. A quick reading of Paul’s letters shows the emphasis of growth on the spiritual matters of the congregation more than the physical numbers. Consider passages such as Romans 1.8,
“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world.”
Paul was thankful because of their faith, not their physical numbers. Paul knew the faith of the congregation in Rome was the #1 factor he could hear about their works. I could mention the same of several other congregations to whom Paul wrote. It was their faith being mentioned, not numbers.
The faith of a congregation comes down to the individual level. Simply put, if a congregation has faithful members, then the likelihood of it being a faithful congregation is great. Congregations are a family who depend on each other to build each other up (Hebrews 3.13; 1 Thessalonians 5.11). As each member builds their faith, it becomes an encouragement to all to keep pressing on and to not grow weary. (Philippians 3.13-4; Galatians 6.9)
How are you building your faith today?
Just some thoughts,
