This practical book was written by a senior and experienced pastor from one of the fastest growing churches in the world.
It presents the fundamental facts that enabled Saddleback to become the fastest growing Baptist church of the twenty-first century in America. The Church grew from one family to 10,000 followers of the congregation in less than 20 years. This church planted 26 other churches in America without owning a single building.
Warren explains practical methods required for church growth to its full potential across different cultures all over the universe. He points out that what matters before God is not church growth but church health. A healthy church is determined from the quality but not the quantity of its members. If the chuch is healthy, then growth will occur naturally. The book emphasises that the focus should be on programs to build people rather than building churches.
Warren shares a proven five-point strategy that will enable your church to grow. The strategy involves five components. For the church to grow healthy it must become
- warmer through fellowship
- deeper through discipleship
- stronger through worship
- broader through ministry and
- larger through evangelism
According to Warren, many modern churches are driven by several but not important things such as pastors, buildings, riches, worship, politics and visitors. However, for the church to be healthy, as the Lord Jesus wants it, it must become a purpose-driven church. It should be built around the five NT purposes above left by Jesus Christ to the Church. 'If you will concentrate on building people, God will build the church'. Warren said.