We all have been guilty of judging the quality of churches by looking at numerical growth. One pastor states, “Very candidly, some of these numerical issues are related to the location of the church and the density of the population.“ I personally have fallen into the trap of comparing myself and the results of ministry to what is going on elsewhere.

Charles Spurgeon once wrote, “Some of the most glaring sinners known to me were once members of a church…led to make a profession under pressure…Do not therefore consider (true) soul-winning…by the swelling of the size of your church.” He continues, “I hear constantly…Last night fourteen souls got saved…I am weary of this public bragging, this counting of unhatched chickens….” (What would he say now with our media driven boasting?) In others words he was saying let’s judge success by fruit, transformation, discipling one another and genuinely changed lives in Christ.

Sunday we will look into Acts 2:41-47 - "41 So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. 42 They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. 44 And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; 45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need. 46 Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved."

This passage reveals a healthy Christ-centered multiplying church. Remember, healthy plants grow and attract. Let’s focus on health, discipleship and genuine service of others in Christ’s name. Let’s keep focusing on Christ and being Christ-like while ever the more encouraging others toward Him and His promises. When God’s Spirit is truly at work we will see transformation that lasts over the long haul. Rejoice that you are being used by the Lord to grow someone else up into Christ-likeness.

Your Friend in Christ,
TC