church growth beyond numerical dimensions

Abstract

This research rises from the concern that in the current approach to church growth, the numerical aspect usually overshadows other critical theological and biblical dimensions and often violates foundational teachings of scripture that places emphasis on transformation of believers and positive impact on society. The researcher, serving with the Bridge of Hope ministry, noted that there has been notable growth over the last ten years that sees increased numbers and opening up of branch churches in other geographical regions, desired to investigate on this growth to find out the extent of conformity to biblical and theological teachings in the phenomenal growth taking place. As part of the methodology of this study, the researcher has sought to find out the approach that the church in question has taken towards the subject of church growth, intending to establish the perception, understanding and the general approach of the respondents who were engaged over this subject through interviews. The findings are presented and analysis of the data interpreted with the summary and the conclusion being given, presenting the examination of the Bridge of Hope Church and the approaches it has given to church growth. This study has established that while the Bridge of Hope church, like other churches approaches growth largely numerically, financially, and spiritually, it places minimal emphasis on the transformation of believers and their impact in their location. The study recommends a balance in church growth for the church and other ministries grounded on church growth as God’s mission driven and intended by God Himself rather than a human enterprise and recommends further study in specific areas.