“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” – 1 Corinthians 1:18
We live in a time where there seem to be so many quick fixes, latest greatest books, and other things concerning church growth. Not all are without merit or benefit. Yet it cannot be stated enough that the early church growth was predicated upon the preaching and teaching of the Word of God.
The earlier church suffered great persecution because they taught in the name of Jesus (Acts 4:18). And the Apostle Paul ascribed to preaching, not programs or systems, the terminology of “the power of God.” The reality is the most powerful means of communication in this world is preaching. When Ezekiel stood in a valley of dry bones, a system or program was not the answer. No. God had him speak to those bones. When the Apostle Paul addresses the churches of Corinth, he informs them that different groups do different things, but what Christians do because of command and effectiveness is “preach” (1 Cor. 1:23).
It matters little how many visitors we have in our services or what set-up we have for follow up and retention if there is no life there. Revival begins within each and every individual of a church. When the local assembly and the members within it catch on fire for God, a well (one of living water) begins to spring up. And then people come to drink! No, they might not get a bicycle, never to be seen again. But let something from heaven touch them that they cannot buy or get anywhere else…AND THEY WILL come again.
God has blessed me to be able to witness many great revival meetings and see numerous churches grow substantially. Yes, I have (and will) teach on leadership, church growth, increasing visitor flow and effective retention methods. Yet NONE of these matter, nor are as effective, when there is no life there. Preacher, preach. Speak to the mountains before you, so you can enter into the promise land. Church growth and Apostolic ministry demands Apostolic proclamation.
Brian Norman is a full-time International Evangelist. His experience includes pastoring and planting Churches in America and overseas. www.GlobalEvangelism.org Ph: (636)544-0627
