Discipleship and the church growth movement

Church growth, historically understood and properly defined, is simply evangelism that results in the growth of the church. Yet the perception today seems to be that church growth is concerned about the absolute size of the church regardless of the type of growth. We who identify ourselves with church growth should recognize that the movement is in an identity crisis because of lack of clarity in our purpose.

Our critics are not at fault when they misunderstand us, mislabel us, and misapply our principles. So much takes place under the guise of church growth that it shouldn’t surprise us when our purpose is misunderstood. Let’s learn from our critics. If they do not understand us, let us have greater and more specific clarity in our purpose. Read the balance of Dr. Thom Rainer's article.