All Saints is undergoing some growth pains that just don't seem to be subsiding. The good news is that these are pains related to growth, the tough part is that it is pain nonetheless. I think the tougher part is constantly reminding people that we aren't looking to be a larger church for the sake of being a larger church. Growth is healthy, and part of being alive. As humans, we grow in many ways; physically, emotionally, mentally, etc. I think it is safe to say when we stop growing we are dead.
Craig Groeschel had this as the latest entry on his blog.
When I meet people from our church, they often tell me more with their words than they realize.
They almost always say one of two things:
- “I go to your church.”
- “I love our church.”
When they say, “I go to your church,” I know this person is not likely very engaged in the life of the church. In most cases, they aren’t serving, participating, or giving. They are simply attending a church that is not yet “theirs.”
When they say, “I love our church,” they are usually very involved. The church doesn’t belong to someone else. It is “their” church.
I’m asking God to empower me to move people from “going to church” to “being the church.” When they stop going and start being, the church goes from yours to mine.
I really like that! It is true, when people truly see how they have been gifted and equipped they can be released to start a viral movement that can change the spiritual climate of a city, neighborhood, workplace and home. I have such a passion to see that. That is why understanding what it means to serve and give becomes paramount to a follower of Christ.
On December 1 and 2 at All Saints we are calling all leaders, current and potential, to join us for an intensive on leadership development and equipping. Our goal is to have 250 new Life Group leaders in the next 5 years. This is the beginning of how we are going to that. I am getting so excited as the buzz turns into full on electricity! This is part of our 10:2 virus (see Luke 10:2).
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