The Advantages of a Small Church
"The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples" Deuteronomy 7:7 (NIV).
#1. In a small church you get to know everybody. Those who have been here for some time know almost everyone in the church at least by name. There is a sense of belonging and a community of spirit that permeates the whole structure. In a congregation such as ours, with fellowship and concern and acceptance of each person, this is a big advantage.
#2. In a small church there can be a greater awareness of needs. Since the members know each other, those who face medical, economic, mental, or spiritual needs are known and have the help and sympathy of others. Unfortunately this isn’t always true in the larger churches. I have known of some larger church members who died of long-term diseases and their congregations didn't even know they were sick!
#3. In a small church the leaders can truly shepherd the sheep. In small churches such as ours, each member is a minister (as it should be); however, the "senior minister" in a mega-church might never even speak to many of the members … much less visit them. One mega-church member was in the hospital. She called the church and asked when the preacher was going to come see her. The secretary responded, “You don’t want to be that sick.”
#4. In a small church there is a stronger sense of tradition. Tradition can be either good or bad, but when it is good, it binds together people better than slick programs or beautiful structures. Traditions create loyalties and identifications that can be positive and helpful.
#5. In a small church there is a strong sense of identity. Of course, we need to make sure that that identity doesn't degenerate into a prejudice against those who are not in our church family (yet). Nevertheless, there are positive benefits for being a member of the Plainview Church of Christ at Colorado City, Texas.
#6. In a small church there is a greater tolerance with those who make an effort. "John Q. Smith" may not be the most accomplished preacher/teacher/song-leader/prayer leader in the world, but he tries hard so he is loved and accepted. Professional ability is not often available in the small church, but loving acceptance for those who make the effort is.
#7. In a small church there is a greater opportunity to serve. In a small church there are the same number of jobs to do as in a large church ... just fewer people to do them. Because of this, small church members get to do more.
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Disclaimer: I have used these points in my preaching for several years. However, I borrowed some of these points (and some of the wording, too) from a source I cannot find any more. -- Larry Fitzgerald, minister |
