Church Growth (1 Corinthians 12:12-31)

Introduction Living things either grow or die –Physically –Spiritually (Hebrews 5:11-14; 1 Peter 2:2) True of the church also –God’s spiritual creation (Ephesians 3:5-10) –Grows as Christians grow (Ephesians 4:16)

God Said Something Too many turn to wisdom of men –Go to “church growth seminars” –Amounts to denial of God’s wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18) Some place the burden on the preacher –He is “their” personal worker –Some work is done –Is this really God’s way? –If so, it hasn’t worked

God Said Something Results –Little or no growth –New converts fall away –Members remain ignorant of the word. (Hosea 4:6)

God’s Simple Plan Each member has a role to play –Various abilities (vv ) –Each important (vv ) Particulars (Ephesians 4:1-11) –Work together to preserve unity (vv. 1-7) –Gifts given to benefit the church (vv. 8-10) –Foundation: Apostles & prophets (v. 11) –Evangelists & teachers (v. 11; 2 Timothy 2:2) –Pastors: Guard & defend (v. 11; Titus 1:9)

God’s Simple Plan Purpose of gifts (vv ) –Equip the saints for service (v. 12) –Results: Maturity (vv ) –Growth is inevitable (v. 16) Choices –Preacher + immature saints= One worker –Preacher + mature saints= Many workers –Choice is clear

Conclusion Must use God’s plan –Provides a supply of elders, preachers, deacons, teachers, etc. –Growth will occur To do otherwise kills the church –Methods must be Scriptural –Growth must be our goal