The Strong Little Church
October 1, 1999
Smaller churches do as well as larger churches in all key areas but one,
according to analyst Christian A. Schwarz. That bodes well for the future
of those in the shadow of mega-ministries. Surveying 1,000 churches in 32 countries, he found eight principles of health
in churches around the world, regardless of size, culture, or denomination. The resulting "natural church development" approach has prompted debate among
the experts worldwide. American pastors are starting to notice the observations
of someone with an international perspective. Schwarz heads the Institute
of Church Development in Germany. Turned off by what he calls "technocratic thinking" in the church, Schwarz
is bullish on smaller congregations. His research tells him that's where
the action is. But Schwarz spies signs of reformation among churches of all
sizes, which he discussed with LEADERSHIP's Craig Brian
Larson. We're hearing increased use of the term "church health" by those
who would have until recently talked about "church growth." What will health
look like in the coming decade? I see two things. First is an emphasis on pursuing quality, not as against
quantity, but as the strategic root for quantity. Once you understand what it means to set qualitative goals, to pursue them,
and to measure periodically whether you have reached these qualitative goals,
this will have a tremendous effect. Second is a shift to the relevance of small churches. One of our most surprising
discoveries is that (while there are some notable exceptions) the bigger
a church grows, the worse it becomes both in quality and in its capability
to reach new people for Christ. In few ways is the bigger church a better
church.
Please complete one of the following:
If you're a Leadership journal subscriber...
...but have not yet registered for online access to CTLibrary.com, you can receive a full-year's access for just $29.95!
Register Here | | If you're NOT a Leadership journal print subscriber...
You're entitled to a special, introductory offer for new subscribers only! Subscribe now and receive a one-year Leadership journal print subscription and one-year access to all Leadership archives for just $39.95!
Subscribe now!
When you log in as a Leadership Journal subscriber, you'll see additional articles noted as premium content only available to CTLibrary.com members. To access the entire CTLibrary requires a CTLibrary subscription. If you would prefer this option, select the offer below that best fits your needs.
|
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 18,013 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
