Helping Our Church To Grow

Text: “That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle …” (Eph. 5:27).

I. Be Fervent in Spirit

“Fervent in spirit; serving the Lord” (Rom. 12:11).

A. Some people lack spiritual zeal. Quenching the Holy Spirit hinders the growth of the church.

B. We must be aglow for God. The manifestation of the Spirit’s presence is attractive, increasing the growth of the church. “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Cor. 3:17).

II. Be Friendly in Speech

“A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly” (Prov. 18:24).

A. Church members are often cliquish. If they are neglectful and unfriendly, visitors will leave the church feeling unwanted and rejected.

B. We must exhibit warmth and friendliness. This helps people feel welcome and they will want to return. “Be ye kind one to another …” (Eph. 4:32).

III. Be Faithful in Service

“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Rev. 2:10).

A. Many Christians are not dependable in church work. They are habitually late or absent. Their lack of concern is detrimental to God’s cause.

B. Dedicated, diligent, and dependable Christians cause the church to move forward and upward. We must be faithful, taking time for God, “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Eph. 5:16).

IV. Be Fruitful in Soul-winning

“I have chosen you … that ye should go and bring forth fruit …” (John 15:16).

A. Some are overly concerned about temporal and material pursuits. They are selfish, and they neglect to reach out to others.

B. We must be concerned about the lost, taking time to pray and making an effort to win sinners to Christ. Personal victory and church growth will result—“He that winneth souls is wise” (Prov. 11:30).