What makes a church successful? A big turnout on Sunday morning? A multimillion-dollar budget? A state-of-the-art building?
We all know those things aren’t the criteria that define a successful church. Whether your church has stadium-size crowds or just a few in attendance, numbers are not the measure God uses for success. He looks at the heart of the church.
The apostle Paul planted an important church in Thessalonica, the capital city of Macedonia. He showed his desire for the church members there when he wrote: “May the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all . . . , so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness” (1 Thess. 3:12-13). With these words, Paul showed us two characteristics that are vital for a successful body of believers—love for one another and holiness.
Congregations, church buildings, and budgets come in different sizes. The true measure of success is demonstrated by followers of Christ who love God and each other, and are committed to living holy lives. Our challenge can be found in the words of the prophet Micah: “What does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (6:8). — Cindy Hess Kasper
If you believe on Jesus’ name,
Then of His church you are a part;
By loving others you proclaim:
“We are the church—we are the ‘heart.’” —Hess
A small church with a big vision has greater impact than a big church with a small vision.