Why Is My Church Not Growing?

One of the most discussed issues among evangelicals nowadays is church growth since we are in what many consider the last days. We plan different activities and strategies to attract crowds and crowds of people. Yet, when this is not accomplished, we become disappointed. We ask,  why is my church not growing? 

The Measuring Rod of Growth

But is your church really not growing? Or if there is growth, how do you say there is? Are you looking at the proper perspective? 

First, we must establish what church growth means through the lens of the early churches in the New Testament. If someone can give us a suitable “matrix” for church growth, it would be no other than the church planter himself, Apostle Paul. 

“We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers; [3] constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father.” —1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 NASB95

We can see a familiar pattern when Paul commends churches through his letters. He thanks God and praises them for their growing faith, hope, and love. He is not praising them for doing more programs or gaining new members. But if he sees churches mature in their spiritual lives and relationship with God and fellow people, he is happy to point it out and approve.

We see how the church in Thessalonica experienced growth. They became imitators of the Lord and examples to all believers for serving the true and living God. How they exhibit their growing walk of faith, love for other people, and hope in Christ resonated in different places. The impact is so huge that the news reaches Apostle Paul, not through the church but through those who experienced the church’s work. 

It is incredible to imagine the same scenario happening in churches today. When followers of Christ in the workplace, school, or community manifest faith, hope, and love, it can make a huge difference. No strategy or program can be more effective than the light of Jesus shining in the Christian life for others to see. It gives glory to God and makes a rippling impact on the world.

How Growth is Accomplished

How did the early church achieve this growth? What Paul did was not a secret. In his letters, he elaborates well on how he is doing his ministry. For Him, the central part of it is faithfully preaching the very Word of God with passion and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

“for our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power and the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake.” —1 Thessalonians 1:5 NASB95

Paul values the faithful preaching of the gospel to the churches and the places he visited. He knows how God’s power for salvation is in His Word. And if it is preached without selfish motivation or agenda, it can change lives. This is the focus of his ministry and the one thing that today’s churches may be missing.

Are we moving to an entertainment-type worship scenario or what others call “prosperity” gospel? Then, we must be reminded to return to the very core of Paul’s ministry—the Gospel of Christ. It is foundational and should be at the heart of every preaching, teaching, and missionary activity. If we want our church to grow in faith, hope, and love (Paul’s measuring stick for success), we must preach Christ and the message of the cross. For in it, our faith is founded. It is the very hope that we hold on to in this life. And it is the love of God manifested in us that we must also exhibit to others.

Moreover, we learned from Paul that the preaching of the Word should be under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. See how Paul always includes God’s Spirit when discussing the effectiveness of their preaching or teaching? This is because the Holy Spirit is the power that fuels the very Word of God. Without His guidance, there is no “fire” in the Word and power to change lives. This is where the value of prayer comes into place.

Prayer is essential and another foundational piece that churches today should not neglect. In Paul’s letters to the churches, he reveals how he is praying for them all night and day without ceasing. He knows that his service can impact the church and the world, not through the skill or knowledge of men but only through God. Thus, he humbles himself towards His Master and remains faithful in prayer.

Do we forget the value of prayer? Pray for God’s anointing power to His Word. Pray for the Spirit’s guidance and leadership in the ministry. Know that the battle we are facing is spiritual, and we need the Spirit of God to guide us through and give us victory.

The Challenge for Today’s Churches

We have seen how the church's growth should be measured in faith, hope, and love, and achieving these three aspects can be accomplished through the foundation of God’s Word and prayer. However, you may wonder when your church will begin to experience growth. Patience is crucial in this process, just like waiting for a seed to sprout into a tree – there is a season for it. Remember, our role is to plant the seed, but God makes it grow!

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth.” —1 Corinthians 3:6 NASB95

While you wait, start with yourself. Pray for the Spirit’s work to be accomplished in your church. It's essential to recognize that church growth doesn't come from the power or skills of men but through the power of God. Humble yourself in prayer. Pray for the church and your personal development. Pray for you to become more beneficial for the church's desired growth. Remember that the church is a body, and every individual is a vital part of it—your spiritual growth matters for the development of the entire body.

“For the body is not one member, but many. [15] If the foot says, "Because I am not a hand, I am not a part of the body," it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body. [16] And if the ear says, "Because I am not an eye, I am not a part of the body," it is not for this reason any the less a part of the body.” —1 Corinthians 12:14-16 NASB95

As you and your local church are part of the body of Christ, anyone you share the gospel with and who believes in Jesus becomes a part of the universal church. This universal church is the true church established by our Lord, comprising all true believers. You can share the Gospel and fulfill the Great Commission of making disciples for Jesus. This begins by sharing the love of Christ with others in your workplace or anywhere you are, contributing to the church's growth in general.

“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." —Matthew 28:18-20 NASB95

Be a beacon that illuminates the people around you, igniting the fire of faith. When Jesus tells us through Scripture that we are the light of the world, it means we can manifest His character and attributes to those around us. By doing so, others can feel the love of Christ in us and experience the loving-kindness of God. Understanding that desiring change in others must begin within ourselves is essential. Our actions towards others can profoundly impact their lives and lead them to the knowledge of Christ. So, instead of hiding your light, let it shine upon others!

"You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; [15] nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” —Matthew 5:14-15 NASB95

Lastly, always keep in mind that we are called to follow Jesus. While we plant and water the church, the ultimate growth comes from the Lord. Therefore, be patient and humble before God and others, and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit for the growth of your church. Do what you can to obey God, and let Him take care of the rest. 

We are praying for you, for the Spirit to move and work marvelous things for your church!