Lecture Notes: Principles of Church Growth

Introduction

• Speaker currently pastors a church with 750,000 active members.
• Founded the church in 1968 with only five people.
• Speaker shares seven principles of church growth.

Key Principles

1. Vision and Dreams

• Church growth begins in the heart with visions and dreams.
• Holy Spirit instills visions in the young and dreams in the old.
• Vision should be embraced fully as it leads and guides.
• Speaker's journey from a vision of 300 members to a reality of 750,000 members.

2. Burning Desire

• Extraordinary desire is essential for church growth.
• Lukewarm desires won't lead to success.
• Desire fuels consistent prayer and dedication.

3. Prayer

• Prayer is foundational to church growth.
• In Korea, prayer is integral, with early morning and all-night prayer meetings.
• Prayer Mountains and fasting are key practices.

4. Spiritual Warfare

• Church growth involves spiritual warfare against demonic forces.
• Prayer breaks Satan's power and clears spiritual confusion.
• Example of challenges in Japan and the impact of Korean prayer.

5. Faith in God

• Stand firm in faith despite external circumstances.
• Faith is a choice and determination, not an emotion.
• Speaker's testimony of faith during economic challenges.

6. Partnership with the Holy Spirit

• Church is a spiritual, not just human, organization.
• Holy Spirit is the leader of the church and must be acknowledged as a real person.
• Fellowship with the Holy Spirit is crucial for guidance and power.

7. Fellowship with the Holy Spirit

• Treat the Holy Spirit as a person; greet, recognize, and depend on Him daily.
• Holy Spirit's presence brings power and church growth beyond human effort.

Role of Practical and Parametric Approach

• Addressing practical needs of people is essential for authentic ministry.
• Story of a transformed family through Jesus meeting practical needs first.

Use of Laity and Cell Groups

• Laity involvement through cell systems is vital.
• Cell groups help manage large congregations and foster community.
• Use of women as cell leaders has been effective.

Conclusion

• Church growth is a combination of divine intervention, practical approaches, and strategic management.
• The speaker emphasizes giving glory to God for the success and growth of the church.

Additional Notes

• Speaker's personal testimony of healing and conversion from Buddhism to Christianity.
• Importance of living a life that aligns with one's preaching and beliefs.
• Encouragement to remain persistent in faith and prayer.