by Don Ruhl

Read First Thessalonians Chapter 2

I have heard and read many things on Church Growth. However, there is an item that I do not recall the experts giving as an ingredient. If it has been, it is so rare that it does not ring a bell. When you read the passage below, think of what you know of the entire New Testament, of how the church operated in the Book of Acts, and of how all the writers of the New Testament books express themselves to their readers.

8 We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us (1 The. 2:8, NIV).

Church Growth material usually speaks of various programs that the church can do, and many of those things are very good, but I never see or hear the truth above stated, that is, that we give our lives for the people we are seeking to convert. Yes, give them the gospel, and give them other things they may need, but sometimes we may give those things in exchange for giving ourselves, and people can detect that. Find someone, other than a family member or good friend, to whom you can give your life, and see what happens.