CHURCH GROWTH (Part III)

                                                   Mark 16:15-16

Introduction

    A.  The importance of sharing the good news with others can’t be over-emphasized,

          but what is the most effective way?  Mark Copeland has reported the following

          from The Institute For American Church Growth.  The question:  “What was

          responsible for your coming to Christ and this church?”  The results:

               1.  I had a special need  3%                5.  I liked the Bible classes  5%

               2.  I just walked in  3%                       6.  I attended a gospel meeting  0.5%

               3.  I liked the minister 6%                   7.  I liked the programs 3%

               4.  I visited there  1%                          8.  A friend or relative invited me  79%

    B.  What can we learn from this survey?

    C.  To experience church growth as we should, every member must invest his/her time

          and abilities.

I.  Three reasons we should be involved in the work of the church:

    A.  Because this is what God created us to do.  Ephesians 2:4-10; Matthew 5:

          13-16

                Salt is a preservative.  Light dispels darkness.

                Matthew 5:16:

                                       What to do:  “Let you light shine”

                                       Where:  “before men” (people)

                                        How:  “your good works (deeds)” 

                                        Result: “and glorify (praise) you father in heaven.”

   B.  Because we love Jesus and His church.  I Thessalonians 1:2-3

   C.  Because the church functions properly when everyone does his/her part.

         I Corinthians 12:12-20, 27

Conclusion

   A.  Selected poem, author unknown.

   B.  The point?  It does not get done!

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