Why not put more money and effort into helping our existing churches grow?
These are good questions and often asked. Reaching New Generations with the Gospel” is a call for all churches, for all Christians.
One of the most effective ways of reaching unchurched people for Christ is starting new churches. Dale Galloway, noted specialist in church leadership, says, “The most proven, most effective means for reaching people who do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ is to start a new church. Research across many denominations has verified what Peter Wagner long ago stated: ‘The single most effective evangelistic methodology under heaven is planting new churches’” (Net Results, Nov/Dec 2002, p.26).
Starting new churches takes the gospel to where people live. No single church can reach everyone. We all have different likes and dislikes. Multiple churches provide multiple points of entry for the pre-Christian. A growing number of churches makes it possible for more people to know Christ.
Another reason for starting churches is that our existing churches often have local traditions that are meaningful to the “members” but have little relevance to those who have not grown up in the church. A new church will begin “new” local traditions relevant for a new generation or culture.
Most new churches grow rapidly and their growth is largely from winning new people to Christ. An added bonus of starting new churches is that they bring new life and vitality back into existing churches as well. Excitement from a new church will spread to surrounding churches.
Let’s pray together, work together, and reach new generations with the Gospel.
