Church leaders have asked me, “What is the secret to church growth?” And the first answer is that there is no one secret beyond the life-giving power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. God, not gimmicks, grows the church.
However, with that said, there ARE some things that over the last 14 years I have seen God uniquely bless. One of those is the power of a spiritual growth campaign. When I say the word “campaign” Many people think of fundraisers, but a spiritual growth campaign is a faith-raiser!
So what is a spiritual growth campaign?
A spiritual growth campaign is a special season of focused synergy. Specifically it is a focused time when we are all hearing, reading, studying, discussing and applying the same spiritual truths at the same time. There are some pros and cons to spiritual growth campaigns.
The Pros:
- It has the power to SYNERGIZE our church family
- It has the power to ENERGIZE our personal faith
- It has the power to MOBILIZE us for the mission
The Con:
- It also has the power to CRYSTALLIZE spiritual apathy
Christians that have been coasting in their faith and have grown resistant to growth often find that a special emphasis on taking spiritual steps hardens their hearts and sours their attitudes. That’s why the writer of Hebrews warns God’s people:
“Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 4:7, NLT)
So, as we enter this special season of focused time studying God’s word and seeking God’s will, I pray that you will do whatever it takes to finish the race and receive the prize (Philippians 3:13-14).
Let me encourage you to:
- Attend every weekend
- Get in a small group
- Run the BASES (CLASS 101-401)
- and read the daily devotional
It just might change your life!
Let’s do this thing!
Pastor Brian
Morgan Hazel
Posted at 13:12h, 07 OctoberGreat Stuff! Thanks Pastor. I’ve always felt ORBC was successful due to an outward focus vs an inward one. Relevant music, preaching, and a warm inviting atmosphere are just symptoms of that focus.
Brian Moss
Posted at 17:19h, 07 OctoberAmen!
Scott Creager
Posted at 12:47h, 08 OctoberAfter being through a few campaigns, it has become a moment of reflection for me. I remember some of the long road marches (walks for you civilian types) I took and every once in a while getting the opportunity to look back to see from where I came. The realization is you can’t look back if you don’t go anywhere. My advice for everyone is to avoid the regret of not being a part of what God is doing and what God is going to do.
Liz Elliott
Posted at 00:10h, 10 OctoberI’m happy to be a part of a growth campaign like this. I’ve already noticed the tendancy for some people to not feel motivated to be involved. My heart breaks for those who fall into spiritual apathy. I know what it feels like because I’ve been there. This is going to be a time of spiritual battle for some and for me. I’m praying.