In the book of Acts there are several principles of church growth that we can study to see just how the church of the first century expanded. They faced persecution, yet they grew. They encouraged one another by their perseverance and actions. They went to where the people were both physically and spiritually. They preached Jesus to all they encountered. What was the result? The church continued to grow and multiply.
If we want the church to grow now, could we not simply utilize these principles in our evangelism? Rather than trying to mimic what denominational groups are doing to lure others into their building, would we not be better served in doing what these early disciples did to expand the church?
We need to not let persecution, or the fear of it, stop us from getting the job done. Does the fear of persecution keep us from opening our mouths to be a witness for Jesus? Just because we may one day face imprisonment for speaking God’s word, does not give us an excuse to keep our mouth shut.
We can all do something to encourage one another during our stay here. Whether it is a call, a letter, an email, or a hug, we can all be a Barnabas to help others in their labor for Christ. We may never know the impact that we have on others through our encouragement. The work of ministry can be draining. When we reach out and encourage those who are laboring with us, it makes a big difference.
We need to meet people where they are, both physically and spiritually. Just as Paul began at different places in his teaching of people from different backgrounds, we need to start where they are in the learning process. Also, we must go where the people are. We need to get out in the community to where the people are if we are going to have a chance to interact and influence them.
We need to preach Jesus. It does not matter the size of our building, nor the number of our congregation, nor the popularity of our preacher. Those are not the things that endure. What endures is Christ and His message. We need to be witnesses of that.
Back in the days of Daniel, when the children of Israel were exiled in Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar decided to have a 90 foot tall golden statue constructed. The king then commanded that at the proper time all were to bow down and worship this golden image. There were those among the exiles, however, who were faithful to God and would not bow down to the image even though the penalty was death in a fiery furnace (Daniel 3:1-12). These three men, Meshach, Shadrach, and Abed-Nego, were not going to violate their worship to the one true God by bowing down and paying homage to the image Nebuchadnezzar created. Did they not know that this would cost them their physical lives?
salvation's path 