What does “growing” look like in a local church? Specifically, what does growing look like at Cool Spring? I think it comes down to one word – connecting. Connection is essential for growth. Cool Spring is all about living connected. We’re connected to each other, our community, but most importantly to Christ. We do this in three unique ways. We link, learn and live. We have three basic priorities by which we develop wildly important goals. Our passion is to be a growing, generous and missional community.
When I reference growth, I’m thinking of four basic areas – spiritual, numerical, physical and influence.
Spiritual growth entails growing in the grace and knowledge of Christ as 2 Peter 3:18 identifies. It’s best interpreted to make large or live large the effect of grace and the knowing of Christ in your life. Too often people get stuck at conversion, but we are to go on to maturity. We’re Christ followers one step at a time. Spiritual growth happens in connected community.
Numerical growth was often identified in the New Testament churches. We see it in Acts 2, 6 and 16. The Lord added daily, disciples increased and disciples were multiplied. While increased numbers isn’t always the leading measure on growth, it is an important indicator. This can be in your local context or through starting a church in another locale. New Testament communities should increase and grow.
Physical growth has more to do with buildings, land and campuses. As a church grows numerically, it must figure out how to expand physically. What do you build and when? Relocate? Build or develop an additional campus or ministry center? We know we’ll have to build additional space on our current location and soon. Our working model is to develop an additional campus too. A larger physical plant or space is a working reality for a growing church.
Influence growth is lived connection with each other through community fueled by connection with Christ. We find at times the early church enjoyed the favor of those not yet a part of the church. There was something genuine and unique about these early believers that made their stories believable. These communities served as a valid witness and influence. Authentic expressions can influence culture resulting in growth.
So how does growth happen? It happens through everyone living connected! How can you live connected at Cool Spring? It’s about everyone learning, praying, volunteering, giving, inviting, inconvenienced, joining, relating, living missionally, meeting needs and making disciples. Take the first step – get connected.
