How can church leaders ensure they have "a multitude of people"? Scripture Centerpiece “A large population is a king’s glory, but a lack of people is a ruler’s downfall.” (Proverbs 14:28) Why People Matter to Leaders - God ties a leader’s honor to the people they shepherd—no people, no glory. - The verse assumes growth is desirable, yet the rest of Scripture clarifies the growth God blesses: obedient, Spirit-filled disciples, not mere spectators (Acts 2:41-47; Matthew 28:19-20). Principles for Gathering a Multitude • Gospel Proclamation – Preach the whole counsel of God “in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). – Trust the gospel’s power to draw and save (Romans 1:16). • Authentic Community – “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35) – Hospitality, transparency, shared life turn visitors into family. • Intentional Discipleship – Jesus multiplied by investing deeply in a few (Mark 3:14). – Small groups, one-on-one mentoring, and clear next steps keep growth healthy. • Empowered Service – Equip saints “for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:12) – People stay where God uses their gifts. • Compassionate Outreach – Meet tangible needs; good works “glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) – Community impact opens doors for gospel conversation. • Uncompromised Doctrine – “Guard the good deposit” (2 Timothy 1:14). – Truth steadies a congregation amid cultural drift, attracting those hungry for certainty. Practical Action Steps 1. Set a culture of invitation—train members to share their faith and invite friends weekly. 2. Offer a clear, biblical membership pathway that explains salvation, baptism, and commitment. 3. Maintain excellence and warmth in Sunday gatherings: engaging worship, Scripture-saturated preaching, visible prayer, friendly follow-up. 4. Launch neighborhood small groups that multiply when they reach 10-12 people. 5. Schedule quarterly “Serve Days” partnering with local schools or shelters. 6. Spotlight testimonies often; stories of changed lives motivate people to join. 7. Monitor health indicators—baptisms, volunteer engagement, attendance retention—praying over each name. Guardrails Against Hollow Numbers - Measure spiritual fruit (Galatians 5:22-23), not just attendance charts. - Keep repentance and faith central; avoid entertainment-driven gimmicks (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). - Regularly evaluate: Is Christ being formed in our people? (Galatians 4:19) The Outcome Leaders who faithfully proclaim truth, love people well, and mobilize every believer will see God send “a multitude of people.” Their growth becomes the leader’s glory, ultimately reflecting the King of kings whose kingdom never ends (Revelation 7:9-10). |
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