After attending the Exponential Conference in Florida a couple of months ago, I read the short book given to every conference participant. Continuing the theme of the conference, this short book discusses the need to work towards multiplication in our local churches.
The primary tension that defines the problem and illustrates the proposed solution, centers around the imagery of "addition" versus "multiplication." The author contends that the church growth culture of recent decades focuses on "addition." We fulfill our mission by reaching more people. Every one person matters to Jesus, right? If we reach one person at a time, we eventually reach the entire world, right? Maybe not. The author rightly reminds us that the problems that accompany this "addition" mindset include the necessity to constantly add seats, staff, programs and structure to effectively minister to all of the added people. In the end, too much time and money is spent accommodating our growth by addition.
The alternative? The author suggests that we multiply. As in, send out members and leaders to start new churches.
This is much more difficult than it seems. (I have tried it....We are trying it...It is really hard!) But I think he is right.
I really appreciate three elements of the conversation in this short book. First of all, the author takes an "and" approach. He rightly acknowledges that multiplication cannot happen without addition. Second, I appreciate that he acknowledges just how difficult this is. He shares case studies of both successes and failures. Third, he outlines 17 tensions, or decision-points, but from the perspective of one pastor who successfully lead a church through this process. This is not just a book of theory!
My only negative critique? It was helpful to have the tensions outlined. It would have been more helpful to also read some general guidelines for where to land in a few areas. For instance, Tension #5 - "Filling our Church Vs. Starting a New Church" looks at how large a church should be before planting. It would be extremely helpful to have at least a few suggestions with some numbers, or at least a suggestion of how to make this decision.
In the end, it is another good book, that is worth being read by any church that wants to make a huge commitment to make a huge impact for Jesus. By the way, it is also available in ebook format from Exponential.
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