I Wish Someone Would Have Told Me This

As a church planter, I wish someone had told me 8 years ago that there are only a few things I needed to focus on to grow a thriving church community. It’s easy to get caught up in the latest marketing strategies and trendy merchandise, but in reality, these things won’t be the key to long-term success.

First and foremost, meeting people and inviting them into the community is crucial. As a church planter, you need to be intentional about getting out into the community and building relationships with those around you. This could mean hosting community events or simply striking up conversations with those you meet in your daily life. The goal is to make connections and let people know that they are welcome at your church.

The next priority is creating clear assimilation, discipleship, and back door systems from the very beginning. It’s important to have a plan in place for how new attendees will be integrated into the church community and how they will be discipled and equipped for their journey of faith. Additionally, having a clear back door system for those who may leave the church is just as important as welcoming new members. This will ensure that those who leave are not lost and forgotten, but feel like a valued member of the community.

Lastly, it’s important to remember that fancy merchandise and marketing won’t grow your church. While it’s tempting to invest in flashy marketing materials and trendy merchandise, these things will not have a significant impact on church growth. Instead, focus on building genuine relationships and providing meaningful experiences for those who attend your church. This will not only create a sense of community but will also attract new attendees through word of mouth.

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus tells us to "go and make disciples of all nations." As a church planter, it’s important to keep this mission at the forefront of everything you do. By focusing on meeting people, creating clear systems, and building genuine relationships, you can create a thriving church community that impacts lives and grows the Kingdom of God.