Church of Tomorrow Series Archive

Even by defining mega churches as those above 2,000 members, as many "church-ologists" do, TABCOM has very few! In fact, we are primarily a family of small churches. Yes, there are numerous exceptions. Still, most of our churches would be glad—thrilled even—to see 75 or even 50 in worship. Is this problematic?

Well, yes and no.

It is problematic if you are a member of such a church and remember the good old days when hundreds filled the sanctuary. Or, read about mega church and its multiple worship services (each attracting thousands). Or, compare yourself to the church in the next town over with its huge parking problems! This perspective results in lowered self-estimation, resulting in less ministry, and a decrease in hope for the future!

It is not problematic, however, if one takes a spiritual perspective. Consider what Jesus did with a group of 12. Moses with Aaron. Miriam confronting Pharaoh. David up against Goliath. Or, the early church where 30 worshipers would have been an enormous gathering. Our small numbers are not problematic for God and what God is doing in our midst. In fact, what God is doing is shaping small cells of believers who are committed to live into the fullness of gospel life. The support and accountability cannot be achieved in large groups. Face-to-face presence, knowledge over time, trust and honesty are all necessary. For these qualities to be in evidence, small numbers are required.

Of course, if we are just small and God is not working in our midst, well, then that is a problem!