Church Growth Defined - Southern Nazarene University

Church Growth DefinedHoward CulbertsonSouthern Nazarene University

Church Growth critics• “It is in fact an abrasive term” – Daniel Cruse,Assemblies of God• “Subversive efforts (that) seared America'sBiblical foundations and prepared the masses tobelieve a lie” -- Berit Kjos, non-denominational• “An adherence to pragmatism rather than biblicalChristianity. Pragmatism can provide increasednumbers, but it cannot regenerate unbelievingmen. “ -- Phil Newton, Southern Baptist

Church Growth critics• “(It’s) numerolatry: . . . the idea thatnumerical growth is the only really validcriterion of church growth” – RowlandCroucher, Baptist• “The problems in our Church are spiritualproblems that must be addressed withspiritual solutions, not by . . . churchgrowth gimmicks” – Troy Benitone, UnitedMethodist

For purposes of this class . . .Why not just say “evangelism” and be donewith it?How are we defining church growth?

Church Growth definition• Church Growth is that careful disciplinewhich investigates the . . .

Church Growth definition• Church Growth is that careful disciplinewhich investigates the . . .Nature and functionPlanting and multiplicationHealthof Christian churches . . .

Church Growth definition• Church Growth is that science which investigatesthe . . . Nature and function Planting and multiplication. . . Health . . .• of Christian churches as they seek specifically toeffectively implement the Lord’s GreatCommission to make disciples of all nationspeoples (Matthew 28:19-20)

Church Growth definition• Church Growth is a spiritual and yetpractical conviction combining the eternalprinciples of God's Word with the practicalinsights of social and behavioral sciences."• Donald McGavran’s work is its initial frameof reference.