Specifically Read: Christ-likeness: Integrity
Sometimes in a quest for church growth, churches will go to great extents to become like the people they want to reach in an attempt to attract people. But, to some . . .
The intent of this post is not to debate whether these ideas should be allowed in the church. Nor is it about discussing the pros and cons for all of these ideas. In reality, we will not find specific biblical support to defend or deny such practices. But, we do have to grapple with principles from the Word that must be reflected in all we do.
The intent of this post is to challenge us to think through how far we are to take becoming all things to all people.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Col. 3:17)
Also Read: What is Your Church Relying on?
Check out the Steering the Church Toward Christ-like Character Leadership Guide which also asks some challenging questions to help you think this through.
For More on Being Christ-like, Go To: Resources about Christlikeness in the Church
All Posts about Church Growth:
- Church Purpose That Leads to Church Growth
- Church Growth Outgrowth of Church Purpose
- Everybody Has a Part in Church Growth
- Church Growth & the Great Commission
- Trying to Attract People to Your Church by Becoming Like Them?
- Trying to Attract People to Your Church with Grace?
- Trying to Attract People to Your Church by What You Offer?
- Trying to Attract People to Your Church Through Manipulation?
- Trying to Attract People to Your Church by Watering Down the Truth?
- Church Growth & God’s Power
- Power of the Gospel & Church Growth
- Power of the Gospel, Not Entertaining
- Power of the Gospel, Not the Messenger
- Power of the Gospel, Not Swayed by What People Think
- Grace to Grow
- Grace to be a Growth Agent
- True Church Growth & Health: Reliant on the Holy Spirit
- Collaboration in Church Growth Efforts Possible with Spirit
- Competence, Conviction & Confidence in Church Growth
- Growth Because of His Name
- Growth When All Done in His Name
- Growth in His Name Came at a Cost
- Prayer Essential for Church Growth
- Praying for Church Growth
- All Spiritual Gifts Needed for Church Growth
- Perspective Toward Each Other’s Part in Church Growth
- Not the Time to Think about Church Growth?
- How Resurrection Power Helps with Church Growth
- Attacks Against Church Growth
- Attacks Against Church Growth Need God’s Protection
- Our How-To Book for Church Growth
- An Example of What It Takes for Growth and Spiritual Health
- Good Stewards Aim Toward Growth
- Leader Qualities in Church Growth
Thank you for having the courage to write on this issue. Most often people think you’re old-fashioned when you address this subject. While I believe that we must become all things to all men, that by all means, we might win some; the question is– How far do we go?
In our quest to become relevant, we lose our significance as “The Church”. Our light must continue to shine to dispell the darkness.
Be encouraged, this light (your ministry’s website) shines brightly. Thank you for so much important info. Blessings.
You are welcome, Maurice W. Armstrong. The psalmist asked God to assess not only His ways but also his heart and thoughts (Ps. 139:23-24). Our integrity as a Church needs to come from the inside out. Therein comes the safeguard for how far we go, and truly being that light.