What is the Congregation’s Role in Church Growth?

As a millennial many of us sit within the pews or chairs wondering one of two things: where did these people come from or where are all the people? Either way, it isn’t on the pastor; at least not all of it. Rich Birch, the author of Church Growth Flywheel, reminds his readers and podcast listeners that if a “church is crappy at communicating [it] won’t grow.” This is true, but who needs to communicate?

The congregation matters just as much as the pastor, when it comes to church.

A lot of times we feel that communication should only be done by the Pastor or leadership team. Data has revealed that the most effective method that directly correlates with church membership is in fact still WORD of mouth? Can’t believe it? Think about it.

Hashtags like #sermontopic or #sundaysermon are some of the top 25 hashtags found on Instagram for certain audiences. We are no longer knocking on the door of our friends and neighbors to share the good news, but now we are using social media, text messages and group chats to share things we love. Why not share the good things going on in your church?

Speaking from personal experience, many people want to see results before they invest. The same can be applied to the congregational experience. Until we see others being blessed, we are hardly likely to invest in a ministry. The member’s voice matters just as much as the pastors. Our testimony is the only invitation many will have to a local ministry.

Why are you not inviting people?

Depending on your answer, you may need to talk to your leadership before you step out to invite others, but sharing your experience with others is the way in which other people come to Christ. Helping your ministry grow is not a taxing issue and only takes a few moments. Share a social media post from your church. Listen out loud. When I find that I want my friends to experience a new audio book, I play it while they are in my car. Does your church stream on YouTube or does your pastor have a podcast? Play it while others are around. Rarely will someone pass up the opportunity to ask, “What are you listening to”? That is an open door and a pathway into a deeper discussion. Once the door is open the invitation is easy.

My last helping advice is rather trivial, but you have to show up. No one wants to go somewhere where you don’t want to be. Be involved and a part of your ministry. As people see the amazing opportunities that you have been a part of the door of discussion will reopen and again all you will have to do is share. Being involved in church growth truly equates to being involved in the Church itself. It requires us to be a part and share the part of the ministry that you enjoy the most with others.

Take action!

It may sound simple, but it definitely makes a difference. Today take a moment to share a message, thought or song and when the discussion begins, be ready to express just how amazing your ministry is.