Church growth destroys.

Church Growth Destroyers

**1. Privatization of the Church**

Many pastors today view churches as their private enterprises, leading them to be easily overcome by the gates of hell. Jesus said, "I will build my church," not "you will build my church." The church belongs to God, who handed it to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has appointed pastors as overseers, not owners. How, then, can it become yours? As stated in Acts 20:28, the church is God's heritage. Similarly, 1 Peter 5:5 and John 10:29 emphasize that the church belongs to God, not to any individual. When we acknowledge that the church is God's, He will protect it from the gates of hell. But if we claim it as our own, we must face those gates ourselves.

**2. Disorder**

"Building without a structure is building without a future." The quality of our structure determines the beauty of our future. In Acts 16:4-5, the early church maintained its growth by having a clear structure. To secure our future, we must install and maintain order within the church. Without a solid structure, the church cannot sustain growth or function effectively. Therefore, it is crucial to establish and adhere to a robust organizational framework to ensure long-term stability and success.

**3. Embarking on Unauthorized Projects**

Undertaking projects not commanded by God can be detrimental to church growth. When a project is not divinely mandated, the church must rely on its resources to sustain it, which can lead to financial strain and eventual collapse. As stated in Jeremiah 23:29 and 23:20, projects that lack God's endorsement will not prosper. If the church does not have the capacity to undertake a project, it is better to refrain from it than to risk running down the church. Trust in God's guidance and only embark on projects that He has commanded.

**4. Honoring Men Above God**

One of the significant destroyers of church growth is placing men above God. When we start honoring people more than God, His presence will leave the church, and we will be left to face challenges alone. In 1 Samuel 2:19-23, Eli honored his children above God, leading to dire consequences. Similarly, in 1 Corinthians 9:15-16, Paul emphasizes the importance of prioritizing God over men. To ensure the church's growth and divine protection, we must honor God above all else.

**Conclusion**

Understanding and avoiding these church growth destroyers is crucial for fostering a healthy and thriving church. Privatization, disorder, unauthorized projects, and honoring men above God can significantly hinder the church's growth and effectiveness. By recognizing that the church belongs to God, establishing a solid structure, following God's guidance, and honoring Him above all, we can create an environment where the church can grow and flourish under His protection and guidance.

### Reflecting on Our Mission

As we move forward, it is essential to constantly reflect on our mission and ensure that we are aligned with God's will. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls that hinder growth and embrace the practices that promote a vibrant and expanding church community. Let's commit to these principles and work together to build a church that truly reflects God's glory and purpose.

One of the significant destroyers of church growth is placing men above God. When we start honoring people more than God, His presence will leave the church, and we will be left to face challenges alone.

The Holy Spirit has appointed pastors as overseers, not owners. How, then, can it become yours? As stated in Acts 20:28, the church is God's heritage. Similarly, 1 Peter 5:5 and John 10:29 emphasize that the church belongs to God, not to any individual.