Unfortunately, many members of smaller congregations (the majority of churches in North America have around 75 members or less) harbor bitterness and resentment towards the churches that seem to grow. This is more dangerous for you than distracted driving.
If you are envious of the church down the street that is busting at the seams, please consider the following:
Most of the growth you think you are seeing isn’t necessarily an increase/net growth for the Kingdom. In other words, what you think you are seeing is most likely a reshuffling of the deck, so to say. To be clear, I’m certain souls are being reached/saved in the “popular” church, but most often what you are observing is merely a migration of the flock from one pen to another.
Dissatisfied people will leave one congregation and go to another based on a myriad of reason -- you’ll drive yourself crazy trying pinpoint why too... An attraction of bigger youth group, a younger more “exciting” Pastor, or an experience with church conflict or burnout back home can sway some. And to be honest, right or wrong, there’s something enticing about the scent of sawdust & fresh paint, and driving on new parking-lots too. Then of course there’s the “The padding is greener on the other side of the pew” syndrome. Also, never underestimate the appeal of a lifelong friend who after years of inviting you simply won’t take no for an answer.
That church you have your eye on that seems to be doing everything right while your congregation is languishing in the doldrums won’t be there forever, either. How do I know? How many of the churches which the Apostle Paul planted still exist? None. All churches go through a life-cycle. They are planted (or “splanted” in some cases) and they roll along for a period of time, and they eventually close their doors. Then again, sometimes a lamp-stand needs to be removed too.
I love churches of all sizes, but in a larger church even with all of the extra resources and capabilities, it’s too easy for people to fall through cracks. While on the other hand, in a smaller church there are more opportunities for you to use your gifts and you are noticeably missed when you aren’t around. Larger churches often can engage in more “big ticket” activities in their community, while people seem to grow more spiritually while serving in smaller churches. These dynamics aren’t evil or holy, they just are.
While we are considering this whole topic, this is probably a good time to reflect on what true “success” is. Are you basing your idea of your church’s success on a business model, or on something more substantial? We might think a hefty budget, well manicured lawns, big crowds and a large staff all indicate a church’s success. Hey, every once in a while hard work pays off, and sure the Spirit moves and we see a church “grow” as a result. Then again, Jesus never established a large campus and He barely kept a dozen followers together at any given time.
Did Jesus fail in your opinion or was He a success? Because based on the “mega-church” standard that most congregants establish for their church, Jesus wouldn’t score very high at His annual evaluation....
Actually, Jesus indicated success was about authentic transformation, i.e., when the disciple becomes like the teacher (Please read LK 6:40). That might happen in a large stadium, an auditorium..., although it could take place more than likely while drinking coffee and studying the Bible in your mentor’s livingroom.
Remember, some people who are looking for a church like all the bells & whistles while some people like church to be simple. Some folks love the KJV, others enjoy translations like the Message. Your church has a particular niche to fill, and you can’t appeal to everyone -- it’s just impossible to reach the engineer and the artist with the same slogan and the octogenarian isn't interested in pizza night or the whitewater rafting trip either.
The church across town or down the street isn’t your competition, quit judging them and be happy for them. Don’t question their motives or methods, and please don’t be jealous of whatever accomplishments they are experiencing. The bedrock reality is, we are all on the same team no matter what size church we attend. We should celebrate any healthy growth another congregation in our community experiences. So embrace your roll in the Kingdom, you have your own field to labor in, and God has you right where He planted you for a reason.
