Are megachurches good for the ministry?

[BlkManWithSomeSense]

Greetings everyone,

I just wanted to get some feedback on this topic because it's been on my mind for quite some time.

I currently attend a popular church in Dallas that currently has about 30,000 local members. The pastor is fantastic. His sermons and teachings are great. However, the size of the church has always made me uncomfortable. They have done everything ( I think) they possibly can to give it a 'small church' feel but of course there are limitations. There is a lack of a community. Even at workshops because of the large number of people, few people really knew each other. Sure, everyone was cordial but that was out of respect and not from bonding.

I grew up in a church where everyone pretty much knew everyone. If you missed church, and saw the pastor at the store, you could expect a lil ribbing about not being there. Every morning he welcomed one and all into the church. I relocated to Dallas from NY and thats where I came to this church.

My current pastor has said he simply doesnt have the time and that the word is more important than shaking hands and greeting people morning ( it would also be a security disaster for his bodyguards since he is a very important man).

I always looked at church and community as a balance. A support system that maintains a checks and balance. Is that an unreasonable thing? My friends that attend with me say they understand but feel I need to adjust to the world we live in today and focus more on the word.

Could anyone share their view of megachurches?

 

[Honey6928215]

I'm not that crazy about them. It seems like my church is on it's way to become a mega church itself. The church that I have attended was a mediium sized church and pretty well known around the Charlotte area. Our pastor use to be very down-to-earth, involve with the community and the youth. He would know everybody whether by their faces or first name basis and ask about te family.

Eight years ago, I had a counsel with him and was able to meet with him that following week. Now that our membership has grown and we have moved to a bigger church, you would have to wait months before you can see him. Now it's like he's inacessible.

I don't like mega churches and I don't make it a secret. You lose that touch with the community and they pretty much get wrapped up in themselves. That's the way I see it.

 

[BlkManWithSomeSense]

I'm not that crazy about them. It seems like my church is on it's way to become a mega church itself. The church that I have attended was a mediium sized church and pretty well known around the Charlotte area. Our pastor use to be very down-to-earth, involve with the community and the youth. He would know everybody whether by their faces or first name basis and ask about te family.

Eight years ago, I had a counsel with him and was able to meet with him that following week. Now that our membership has grown and we have moved to a bigger church, you would have to wait months before you can see him. Now it's like he's inacessible.

I don't like mega churches and I don't make it a secret. You lose that touch with the community and they pretty much get wrapped up in themselves. That's the way I see it.

Thats how I feel. I remember going to a mega church one time and the pastor apologized because a loyal long time member of the congregation had been sick and was in the hospital. The member contacted the church and asked if someone would come and pray with him and he was assured someone would be there. Well no one did because the message was lost in the chain of passed along messages. The pastor said " I'm sorry but with a church this big, some things are going to fall through the cracks"

I wasnt encouraged by that.

 

[PaperClip]

Megachurches... hmmm....

I need to say up front that my church is heading toward "megachurch" status.... Yet I have been at my church almost 20 years and I've seen the growth so I don't feel "lost" in the congregation like I know a person might feel like. I'm relatively close with my pastor's family (I was one of the children's nannies, tutor, etc.).

Secondly, the term "megachurch" emerged with such a stigma that its very mention does not evoke positive thoughts, so while I can appreciate the FUNCTIONS of what a megachurch can do when it's done well, I am not fond of the term.

With that said, it sounds like the issues that folks may have regarding megachurches is the sense of disconnect, from both the pastor and fellow congregants. Even though I have been with my church a long time, if my pastor said that he didn't have time for me or he forgot about me, I would feel hurt and rejected as well. I believe that the Bible talks about the heart of the shepherd being enlarged to embrace all of the people that come into the flock. I believe this can happen in a "megachurch" as well, even considering the natural/human elements of the pastor, which is something that I think some folk forget. And then, we have witnessed how certain aspects of leadership (esp. in the Black Church) can be exaggerated w/the use of bodyguards and whatnot. Again, I've been in church my whole life and have seen the necessity of having them to an extent, but such elements should not make the pastor completely unapproachable. Again, that might be a reflection of the leadership's heart if there is that sense of disconnect.

The possibilities of the megachurch being a strong community force has yet to be seen. Even in biblical times, the synogogue was the CENTRAL place in the community--that's where children were schooled, the poor were helped, the sick were healed, etc. Moving toward the 21st century, the "megachurch" in its most effective sense can have a strong impact on community. Even today's mosques and synogogues and parishes have similar functions.

My feel on megachurches? I'd begin with replacing the term with a word that carries a different connotation of community in ministry. Secondly, I would remind folks that megachurches exist across religions (the Vatican!?!?) and so such praises and criticisms should be universally applied so there can be a more balanced conversation.

There are no perfect churches, only a perfect Lord.

 

[BlkManWithSomeSense]

Megachurches... hmmm....

I need to say up front that my church is heading toward "megachurch" status.... Yet I have been at my church almost 20 years and I've seen the growth so I don't feel "lost" in the congregation like I know a person might feel like. I'm relatively close with my pastor's family (I was one of the children's nannies, tutor, etc.).

Secondly, the term "megachurch" emerged with such a stigma that its very mention does not evoke positive thoughts, so while I can appreciate the FUNCTIONS of what a megachurch can do when it's done well, I am not fond of the term.

With that said, it sounds like the issues that folks may have regarding megachurches is the sense of disconnect, from both the pastor and fellow congregants. Even though I have been with my church a long time, if my pastor said that he didn't have time for me or he forgot about me, I would feel hurt and rejected as well. I believe that the Bible talks about the heart of the shepherd being enlarged to embrace all of the people that come into the flock. I believe this can happen in a "megachurch" as well, even considering the natural/human elements of the pastor, which is something that I think some folk forget. And then, we have witnessed how certain aspects of leadership (esp. in the Black Church) can be exaggerated w/the use of bodyguards and whatnot. Again, I've been in church my whole life and have seen the necessity of having them to an extent, but such elements should not make the pastor completely unapproachable. Again, that might be a reflection of the leadership's heart if there is that sense of disconnect.

The possibilities of the megachurch being a strong community force has yet to be seen. Even in biblical times, the synogogue was the CENTRAL place in the community--that's where children were schooled, the poor were helped, the sick were healed, etc. Moving toward the 21st century, the "megachurch" in its most effective sense can have a strong impact on community. Even today's mosques and synogogues and parishes have similar functions.

My feel on megachurches? I'd begin with replacing the term with a word that carries a different connotation of community in ministry. Secondly, I would remind folks that megachurches exist across religions (the Vatican!?!?) and so such praises and criticisms should be universally applied so there can be a more balanced conversation.

There are no perfect churches, only a perfect Lord.

I dont think i'm much of a proponent for new words that still bear the same meaning. If there is a stigma with the word 'megachurch' it's from how it has affected people and their attitudes towards them. Your particular connection to the church, the pastor and his family is exceptional and admirable. However, it also means that you will probably always maintain a close connection that perhaps another member of your congregation, will not be able to enjoy. As the lines become longer, your pastor's time becomes less available, the grumblings will become louder.

The possibilities of the megachurch are being seen and depending on who's view you take, is either advancing it's people or keeping them further apart. For example, let's take the public school system Vs private schools. Private schools offer smaller classrooms and more on hands involvement while public schools are often overcrowded and less hands on. In almost any sitaution when you have a intimate setting, you absorb better.

Yes it's true that megachurches have been around for some time,among other races, especially in other cultures but it is just becoming an issue of discussion within the black community and so we must consider the ramifications now while in it's infancy.

Quite honestly I think it's just the sign of the times and I will miss it I dont necessarily think it's for the better because a commuity's closeness is a church's greatest asset besides it's unwavering faith in the word.

I will add later... gotta go for a min.

 

[Angelicus]

I am having that problem now. Here's my story:

I am used to small churches, with less than 300 people in it. When I moved to AZ, I attended a church that had maybe 4000 members (between both services). Great sermons, great praise. At times I felt very alienated because I didn't feel close to anyone. I joined the 75-member choir, only to feel even more alienated. I joined bible studies, classes... I felt like a fish out of water because I was seeking personal attention.

Now that I live in TN, I have gone to one huge church that seems like a production show, with commercials on a huge tv screen after the pastor speaks and before tithing. I am currently looking for a small church-- maybe an African/Carribean or Hispanic bilingual church now because I really am in need of a spirital mother.

 

[Honey6928215]

I am having that problem now. Here's my story:

I am used to small churches, with less than 300 people in it. When I moved to AZ, I attended a church that had maybe 4000 members (between both services). Great sermons, great praise. At times I felt very alienated because I didn't feel close to anyone. I joined the 75-member choir, only to feel even more alienated. I joined bible studies, classes... I felt like a fish out of water because I was seeking personal attention.

Now that I live in TN, I have gone to one huge church that seems like a production show, with commercials on a huge tv screen after the pastor speaks and before tithing. I am currently looking for a small church-- maybe an African/Carribean or Hispanic bilingual church now because I really am in need of a spirital mother.

OMG, Anky,

That reminds me of the church I visited. It does annoucement on a large wide=screen TV. I'm used to seeing people I know every Sunday or whatnot but now it has gotten to where you will be lucky IF you see at the same service as you.

 

[blazingthru]

I think that the megachurches lose the entire concept. With them only having one pastor when there should be as many as possible so that one man is not the main focus. One pastor can't meet all the needs there should be various leaders in a mega church so that everyones needs can be met. Plus to be honest I would like to speak to a woman who has gone through what I have so that I can relate to her. I do not agree with woman pastors (moo)but I do believe in woman leaders. I go to a megachurch I have not joined. I feel disconnected as well. I have thought about finding ways to be more connected as well get more involved is the ony thing I can think of right now.

 

[BlkManWithSomeSense]

I think that the megachurches lose the entire concept. With them only having one pastor when there should be as many as possible so that one man is not the main focus. One pastor can't meet all the needs there should be various leaders in a mega church so that everyones needs can be met. Plus to be honest I would like to speak to a woman who has gone through what I have so that I can relate to her. I do not agree with woman pastors (moo)but I do believe in woman leaders. I go to a megachurch I have not joined. I feel disconnected as well. I have thought about finding ways to be more connected as well get more involved is the ony thing I can think of right now.

I must agree. I don't mean to offend anyone because I believe the intentions of most megachurhces are positive. The greater your membership, the greater the responsibility. It's imperative to maintain the connection with it's members and that also means recognizing one's own limitations at certain growth junctions.

How hands on can I be if I am a teacher no longer of 22 but now of 80? Something will have to give. In a case like that I would suggest another classroom be started and I would mentor that teacher to help them build their own classroom. Goodness even Jesus delegated and had disciples.

 

[Nice & Wavy]

I listened to everyone about how they feel about megachurches and this is interesting. I came out of a church of about 2500 members and honestly, sometimes I did feel alone. However, I made a decision to meet as many people as I could during the 17 years I was there. I even went to people who I never met (some were visitors, some were people that were there for 2 or more years and I never even seen them before) after the services were over and greeted them. I made many friends and were able to pray with people and began to fellowship.

As I began to think about this thread, it reminded me about the book of Acts when the first church began. As we know there were thousands added to the church daily, such as should be saved. How did the Apostles handle such a church? What did they do that encouraged the people to fellowship? We do know that the church grew rapidly, and they began to grow in number. We see in Acts 2:42-47..."They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship and breaking of bread and prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the LORD added to their number daily those who were being saved."

That sounds like a "mega church" wouldn't you say? In Acts 5:14 is says..."Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number" (you can read from vs 12 if you like) Again, the church kept growing in numbers.

In chapter 6 beginning at vs 1, it showed that the disciples were increasing in numbers too, so in vs 2 we see that..."So the twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the Word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the Word." And in verse 7..."So the Word of God spread. The number of the disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith."

We can read on and on about how the church increased in size and how they had to have disciples to lead them. This was how the churches were able to minister to the people, but in smaller numbers. But the churches kept growing because people were getting saved.

I think that as we look at these "mega churches" we need to keep in mind that people are "getting saved" and the churches are growing. I can't say that I agree on how the leaders are handling the way the people that are there are being ministered to, or how they create their small groups, etc. but...the church is growing nevertheless and we, as disciples of Jesus Christ, must do our part in making sure that the people who are "getting saved" that their needs are being met. Whatever our part is...we must do it.

Jesus is coming back soon and before that time, there will be people getting saved like never before. I believe church as we know it today will be at thing in the past and churches will be overflowing with people coming to Christ. What are we going to do then? How are we going to be utilized in the Kingdom of God to help these people?

I know, for me, I must do all I can now to prepare myself for that great time of harvest. It's not easy, but I know that this is something that I must do because I have been chosen by God to minister to the people because He has given me the 'ministry of reconciliation' and called me an ambassador of Christ. II Corinthians 6:3 says it this way..."We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindess; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything."

We must continue to pray for those who lead the churches around the world and for those who assist them. They may not be doing what we feel is right, but they are accountable for it. I don't want to own anything that's not mine.

I know this was long, but I was inspired to share this. I hope no one takes it the wrong way.

Be blessed, always....

 

[crlsweetie912]

I have to chime in on this but my time is limited. I am currently at a church that I guess you could say was on it's way to being a "mega church". Right now we have about 5,000 members. Our church started as a storefront church 21 years ago. Our anniversary is Next week. Our pastor has several assistant pastors, associate pastors and ministers who help with the outreach of the church. Our services come on local radio and are featured on the Word network. But, our pastor is as friendly and as personable as any small church pastor that you could find.

Ex: One day, while doing my usher duties, I was at the back of the church to get the tithing envelopes for the services for that day. As I was waiting for someone to come open the door for me, my Pastor walked by on his way to the sanctuary. He said "hello crl, how are you? What do you need?" I said that I was trying to get the envelopes. He went into his pocket, opened the door for me and got the envelopes himself. He is just like that.

I think it all depends on the pastor and the attitude that he has. At the same time, I wouldn't feel comfortable belonging to a church that was the same for 30+ years and never had any growth. JMHO!

 

[Nice & Wavy]

I have to chime in on this but my time is limited. I am currently at a church that I guess you could say was on it's way to being a "mega church". Right now we have about 5,000 members. Our church started as a storefront church 21 years ago. Our anniversary is Next week. Our pastor has several assistant pastors, associate pastors and ministers who help with the outreach of the church. Our services come on local radio and are featured on the Word network. But, our pastor is as friendly and as personable as any small church pastor that you could find.

Ex: One day, while doing my usher duties, I was at the back of the church to get the tithing envelopes for the services for that day. As I was waiting for someone to come open the door for me, my Pastor walked by on his way to the sanctuary. He said "hello crl, how are you? What do you need?" I said that I was trying to get the envelopes. He went into his pocket, opened the door for me and got the envelopes himself. He is just like that.

I think it all depends on the pastor and the attitude that he has. At the same time, I wouldn't feel comfortable belonging to a church that was the same for 30+ years and never had any growth. JMHO!

Yes, and because he has assistant pastors and other leaders helping him, he is not overwhelmed with 'Stuff' that would keep him from even paying any attention to you or anyone else.

My pastor is good like that too. He is an Apostle over many churches in USA and overseas, yet, he makes time to meet with the men in the church and have dinner with them, stuff like that. Just a small example, but not everyone can work their schedule like that and make things happen for people.

Growth is inevitable. Period.

 

[crlsweetie912]

Yes, and because he has assistant pastors and other leaders helping him, he is not overwhelmed with 'Stuff' that would keep him from even paying any attention to you or anyone else.

My pastor is good like that too. He is an Apostle over many churches in USA and overseas, yet, he makes time to meet with the men in the church and have dinner with them, stuff like that. Just a small example, but not everyone can work their schedule like that and make things happen for people.

Growth is inevitable. Period.

ITA!

 

[Sweet C]

Ok, before I get into topic, I will say that I have been a member of a 20,000+ member church, 2,000 member, and I am now a member of a church where there are about 50-100 members. All have/were beneficial to my Christian walk.

One thing we must understand that the megachurch is not a new concept. Nice and Wavy already showed this biblically in the NT, but I am going to go back further with Moses and the children of Israel. Moses was responsible for 600,000 thousand men (Ex 12:37) not including the women and children. He seved as judge for all of these people and pratically wore himself out until Jethro, his father-in-law, gave him some excellent council. He told him essentially to teach the people the statues of God, and appoint rulers over them to judge and handle matters, and that Moses would personally deal with the larger matters (Ex. 18). This is similiar to how things are done in a large church. You have one senior pastor who is the head overseer, but in addition to this, you have various other pastors (i.e. youth pastor, women's pastor, etc.) who head up different aspects of the ministry, as well as elders, deacons, ministers, teachers, adminstrations, etc. who handle different aspects personally and have to report to the head.

I believe the underlying issue is not the size of the church, but what we expect from it and leadership. We put a whole lot of mandates on the head shepard that the scripture doesn't put on them, and some sadly feel pressured to try and live up to God's expectations as well as the peoples. Contrary to popular belief, the main job of the overseers is to pray and deliver the Word of God. A lot of other issues are to be handled by other offices in the body who have already shown that they can operate in their position (Acts 6:1-4). Now in smaller churches, the pastor will take on more, b/c most of the time their aren't enough in that body qualified to take on more. But as the pastor disciples the body, their are more things he is going to do less and less of, and delegate those responsibilities to those who are proven faithful. When my current bishop, first started out, he pretty much had to do everything. Now he is in his eighth year as a pastor, and now he has ministers, elders, prophets, evangelists, teachers, and deacons to assist in taking care of the house of God, so now he doesn't have to overwork himself trying to do it all.

We also have to remember that their is no perfect church (save when Christ comes), and that wherever you are, you should be doing what is necessary for you to grow in your own personal rlp as well as corporately. For those who go to larger churches and feel disconnected, I encourage you to get more involved and if you need to call the church office and find out who is your elder, deacon, or minister is, then you contact them if need be. Don't just come on Sunday or Saturday, come out to Bible Study or if you prefer a much smaller gathering, go to when the church has prayer, I can pretty much guarantee you will meet people there. Realize that b/c you go to a larger body, that there will be more responsibility on your part to do what is necessary. For those who go to smaller churches, get involved and help take the load off of leadership. For both, if you see something lacking in the house that bothers you, then you pray and ask the Lord how you can assist in making that thing right.

 

[Shimmie]

Even at workshops because of the large number of people, few people really knew each other. Sure, everyone was cordial but that was out of respect and not from bonding.

Excellent Thread and much needed awareness.

It's all right there in your words...no bonding; no getting to know about who one really is. A cold distance between the heart and body. God's word says to 'know those who labor among you.' But as you shared, your Pastor has many restaints which prevent this. And so many churches are the same.

My first church started small and believe me, even my eyelashes were numbered My Pastors knew all of us and there was no such thing as wondering where we were or what was going on in our lives. We were closely knit. But then our church grew and while it was a wonderful blessing to see so many in the house of God in worship, there were too many people to keep up with. Our ministry of helps department was over whelmed much of the time.

Where I am now is small (about 60 - 80 members) and my eyelashes are numbered once again.

There are several large chruches in Maryland. There are many people who are proud to announce they attend them. What concerns me is this:

"Does your Pastor know..."

You are cussing the way you do?"
That you are 'clubbing' every weekend?
You are sleeping / shacking up with this person?
You are about to be evicted from your home?
That your husband beats the mess out of you?
That you are 'hooking' to make ends meet?

The list goes on. But who is there for those to be accountable to and to have someone mentor / minister to them on a closer level? Who is aware of their needs and safety?

Food for thought: How many passengers on the Titanic did the captain know even the names of? Though upon the same vessel, destined the same fate; they died without the comfort of knowing each other.

This should not be so with the Church.

 

[delp]

A big church will never hold you accountable. It is easy to hide out. no one will ever miss you and ask you where you are and where have you been. I been to large mega churches and small hole in the walls. THe one that had the most freedom to allow God to move in anyway was always the small one.

 

[firecracker]

I think Megachurches can be good for individuals and the community. Certain people prefer larger congregations and some prefer smaller congregations for varied reasons.

We cannot expect a church to remain small forever if they are saving souls but I still feel no matter what the size the church should attempt to maintain a personable level to stay in touch with their people and community.

I found that I prefer a medium church with a small town feel to it. I want a Pastor I can touch, contact, relate to and who greets us at the door every Sunday. I also like the many ministries, programs and varied interaction that megachurches offer also. I just don't like the flossy, idolization, materialist messages and top salary ministry that seem to be the norm or goal at many of these Megachurches.

 

[Shimmie]

It was beautiful back then ; it is a pure and wonderful concept...the Church in the book of Acts. However, it's not the same today as it was back then. While today many large churches attempt to have this 'community' bonding, not all do and there's too many in the 'not all.'

There's a big mess right now in the news from a Pastor of a Mega church who admits the accusations of sexual sin.

The problem is many of these mega church Pastors are without accountability. The members and those who admire them, are often too caught up in his/her annointing, to see their vunerabilities to sin and falling.

In smaller churches, you know more about your Pastor's whereabouts. He still has his privacy, but it's harder for him to 'stray' off. We all know where he is and there is a tighter bond in the spirit.

Too many of these Mega ministers are messing up big time and it goes on for years because he's Mega distance from the bonding and direct spiritual and intimate covering he needs most. The congregation is really out of touch with him/her to pick up in the spirit the sin that he/she may be in. And for the most part, they are placed upon a pedestal, often in the nosebleed atmosphere...too high up in the spiritual rafters.

Here's something to consider. The bigger the ministry, the greater the pull upon one's spirit to minister. The man/woman of God expends more of his annointing and spiritual resources quicker than he's able to be replenished back into his spirit. No amount of spiritual conferences and/or retreats can save him/her. It is critical for personal and direct communion with the Holy Spirit and God's word for one to have his spiritual vessel filled. Jesus always went away (from the people) to be alone with God the Father to pray. There were too many people and demonic spirits pulling at him...literally draining His spirit dry.

This dryness leaves an open door for the enemy to come in. It makes him/her even more vunerable to being caught up in sin.

There's also an image...a front that a Mega minister is expected to present. He/She is caught up in the trap of being fearful of allowing their weaknesses to be made known. Hence, there's no ministering to them in that area. They can preach about it as a 'subject matter' in a sermon, but the draw upon his/her spirit from the mass congregation is more than he/she really can handle.

They are literally spiritually 'dead' men walking. They are walking and ministering with a spirtual deficit. And they fall into whatever trap satan has for them. 9 times out of 10, it's sexual sin; for it so easily besets them.

I'm not against church growth. God knows it's needed to add to the Church daily...however today is not as in the book of Acts. Mega has become commercialized; over-stressed; over burdened.

100% of Church members are being choked with the cares of the world both in their personal and in their Church lives. The enemy has us so distracted with the cares of this life, that God's word is being literally choked with the very Vine that we are meant to be the branches of. The church is burnt out trying to be The Church.

The community mindset is only of the 'faithful few' who work in the ministry of helps...not enough hands. Even Jesus said, that "the Harvest is ready, but the workers are few."

Church growth means more than more members and those who come in to say the 'Sinner's Prayer' and come in to hear the word only; while only 50 members of a 10,000 member church offer to do the work of 1000. In a Mega church, there must be Mega committment in the number of hearts and hands to minister and maintain the entire body. Everyone must contribute more than being a Pew/seat warmer.

The Pastors need more than being a Black or White shiny dot in the spotlight. He/She needs serious spiritual covering in every area of their lives and they must also be under close accountability with what they do with their lives, church finances, family and community....such as it was in the book of Acts. For there, everyone was accountable to each other.

It's not happening here, in this day in time. The news .. the media is proof. Also, sadly many of whom I've witnessed. Too many.

Let me tell you what I've learned. Know whom you are under and I mean know them in prayer. Not prayer, BUT prayer!!!! The devil is as sneaky and as cunning as can be and there are Churches that are so big that the churches themselves are getting swallowed up in the mass of what we may feel or think is growth.

I'm not against large Churches, the entire world would be better off if all were large; but we have to stand back and really look inside and ask, "Father God show me in between the masses. Take me beyond what I'm seeing in the natural and show me the masses. Are the gaps in the ministry filled with bodies only -- or filled with those called accordingly to bind up the strong man, satan from tearing this ministry apart. Father God, show me the masses....

 

[Southernbella.]

I also like the many ministries, programs and varied interaction that megachurches offer also. I just don't like the flossy, idolization, materialist messages and top salary ministry that seem to be the norm or goal at many of these Megachurches.

I think this is so key. I don't have a problem with megachurches at all, but I think it's very important to know what the vision of that church is.

For example, there is a church here in ATL that recently had a conference called "Marketing Your Church for Growth". One of the topics was:

How to collect $500,000 in offerings in one service

That didn't sit too well with me. I dont' remember all of the topics, but there was nothing about going forth and making disciples. It was all about getting more members and collecting mroe offerings.

Not all megachurches are like this, but my fear is that with large congregations, the focus on numbers will begin to outweigh the focus on soul-saving.

I also don't think the church that never rises above 200 members is less annointed than a church that adds 200 members a week. I don't think it matters a bit how many people are members, as long as the Word is being preached. When I was in high school, I went to a megachurch, while my best friend went to a small church (around 300 members). I went to service with her once, and the Spirit was in the place. There also seemed to be a lot more reverence to the Spirit there than in my church, where there was so much open space, it was easy to be distracted.

I'm not for or against megachurches, as long as the main focus is on soul-saving and making disciples.

 

[Shimmie]

I think this is so key. I don't have a problem with megachurches at all, but I think it's very important to know what the vision of that church is.

For example, there is a church here in ATL that recently had a conference called "Marketing Your Church for Growth". One of the topics was:

How to collect $500,000 in offerings in one service

That didn't sit too well with me. I dont' remember all of the topics, but there was nothing about going forth and making disciples. It was all about getting more members and collecting mroe offerings.

Not all megachurches are like this, but my fear is that with large congregations, the focus on numbers will begin to outweigh the focus on soul-saving.

I also don't think the church that never rises above 200 members is less annointed than a church that adds 200 members a week. I don't think it matters a bit how many people are members, as long as the Word is being preached.

When I was in high school, I went to a megachurch, while my best friend went to a small church (around 300 members).

I went to service with her once, and the Spirit was in the place. There also seemed to be a lot more reverence to the Spirit there than in my church, where there was so much open space, it was easy to be distracted.

I'm not for or against megachurches, as long as the main focus is on soul-saving and making disciples.

This is so on target. I can't begin to count the miracles that occur in the smaller church that I'm now a part of. Amen to your post....

 

[Honey6928215]

I think this is so key. I don't have a problem with megachurches at all, but I think it's very important to know what the vision of that church is.

For example, there is a church here in ATL that recently had a conference called "Marketing Your Church for Growth". One of the topics was:

How to collect $500,000 in offerings in one service

That didn't sit too well with me. I dont' remember all of the topics, but there was nothing about going forth and making disciples. It was all about getting more members and collecting mroe offerings.

Not all megachurches are like this, but my fear is that with large congregations, the focus on numbers will begin to outweigh the focus on soul-saving.

I also don't think the church that never rises above 200 members is less annointed than a church that adds 200 members a week. I don't think it matters a bit how many people are members, as long as the Word is being preached. When I was in high school, I went to a megachurch, while my best friend went to a small church (around 300 members). I went to service with her once, and the Spirit was in the place. There also seemed to be a lot more reverence to the Spirit there than in my church, where there was so much open space, it was easy to be distracted.

I'm not for or against megachurches, as long as the main focus is on soul-saving and making disciples.

Now see that would be a red flag for me. They should have written 'How To Save 500,000 Souls In One Service.' That should be top priority. But we know what that is.

 

[Shimmie]

Now see that would be a red flag for me. They should have written 'How To Save 500,000 Souls In One Service.' That should be top priority. But we know what that is.

That's why there's so much mess going on.

 

[firecracker]

That's why there's so much mess going on.

Its like alot of these Pastors want to be a superstar and untouchable. I think alot of these Mega churche Pastor are getting so far away from the word and what their original calling was. I am not shocked at the how to get a certain dollar amount at service. My old Pastor soon to be Mega Church liked to get up and talk about his 1500 dollar shoes, preference in gifts from members and everything was basically about money this money that etc. It was truly appauling. I could here that message on the street. I don't think you have to be poor and broke to love and worship God but there is way too much emphasis on worldy things and money in some of these churches today. Each one is attempting to outdo the other. It's just not a good thing. What happened to saving souls

 

[pebbles]

Now see that would be a red flag for me. They should have written 'How To Save 500,000 Souls In One Service.' That should be top priority. But we know what that is.

Girl, say that again, please! This needs to be repeated!!

 

[Shimmie]

Girl, say that again, please! This needs to be repeated!!

"Our primary forcus and the top priority for this week's conference is how to save 500,000 souls in one service and how to impart the overflow of this annointing into them to take into their homes and jobs and daily lives, for all to whom they are a part of, receives Jesus into their heart and souls as well.

Let the focus and primary topic of this meeting be, no more broken homes, no more drugs, no more teenage pregnancies, no more children being raped and molested, no more physical and mental abuse, no hungry babies without milk or bread, no children going to school unable to have decent clothing, shoes, a warm winter coat, a warm breakfast, a warm lunch;

...And while Mega ministries live in Mega homes, no evictions for those who've given their hard earned money in faith to support the Mega ministries. Let the Lord lead and guide us in His ministry, not ours and let God be glorified in all that we say, plan and do. Let the "Top Priority" be Jesus. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

The list is endless. Praise God that it's not all of the Mega ministries that mislead and have greed. I'd rather give my support financially to the work of the Lord than to the world anyday. It's 'few' only the pitiful 'few' that summon for all they can 'get' as opposed to all they should be giving to the communities, instead. I don't mind anyone being blessed, what I do mind is how and why.

I praise God for the wholesome ministires and there are far, far more of them pure and wholesome than the ones that aren't. We just have to be discerning as with all in life.

 

[firecracker]

"Our primary forcus and the top priority for this week's conference is how to save 500,000 souls in one service and how to impart the overflow of this annointing into them to take into their homes and jobs and daily lives, for all to whom they are a part of, receives Jesus into their heart and souls as well.

Let the focus and primary topic of this meeting be, no more broken homes, no more drugs, no more teenage pregnancies, no more children being raped and molested, no more physical and mental abuse, no hungry babies without milk or bread, no children going to school unable to have decent clothing, shoes, a warm winter coat, a warm breakfast, a warm lunch;

...And while Mega ministries live in Mega homes, no evictions for those who've given their hard earned money in faith to support the Mega ministries. Let the Lord lead and guide us in His ministry, not ours and let God be glorified in all that we say, plan and do. Let the "Top Priority" be Jesus. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

The list is endless. Praise God that it's not all of the Mega ministries that mislead and have greed. I'd rather give my support financially to the work of the Lord than to the world anyday. It's 'few' only the pitiful 'few' that summon for all they can 'get' as opposed to all they should be giving to the communities, instead. I don't mind anyone being blessed, what I do mind is how and why.

I praise God for the wholesome ministires and there are far, far more of them pure and wholesome than the ones that aren't. We just have to be discerning as with all in life.

^^^Now thats what I'm talkin bout!

 

[p31woman]

I have been a member of a megachurch here in Atlanta. for almost a yr. Before that, I was active in a church for about 6 yrs that had no more than 150 people, and before that the churches I attended were smaller than that, so I was used to the small church feel.

I say that wherever the spirit touches you, that's where you need to be regardless if there are 2 people in that church or 2 million. To me, a sign that the word is going forth and is powerful is shown in a church's growth. If an anointing is there, people can sense that and are attracted to it.

What are church's suppossed to say, "Oh well, we have all the members we want, we met our quota, so you have to go learn, fellowship and praise God somewhere else" That's ridiculous!!!!

I feel so much at home at my church (Big up's to New Birth South Metropolitan Church ) We have prob over 12,000 members by now. There are 3 services and about 2000 people per service( ya'll know folks dont come every Sunday) I am active in 2 ministries and I can say that has helped me feel more at home. Even when I wasn't involved, I can say that I wasn't uncomfortable. I always felt God there and I became sooo hungry for Him and His word like never before. I have all trust in God and faith in my Pastor.

Sometimes I get tired of defending my church because of it's size, but that anger always ceases when I talk about how much my life has changed because I was obedient to God's plan for my life. I went where He told me to go and I am reaping the benefits every Sunday, Wednesday and every day!

If you have not been to a megachurch before, at least visit one (do your research first), and see what all the fuss is about before you speak bad about those people that lead those churches and worship there. Just like we can't generalize black women or black men, we can't generalize all mega-churches. Don't become so inindated with the bad reports that you miss all the work God is doing through these ministries.

BE BLESSED!!

 

[Shimmie]

I have been a member of a megachurch here in Atlanta. for almost a yr. Before that, I was active in a church for about 6 yrs that had no more than 150 people, and before that the churches I attended were smaller than that, so I was used to the small church feel.

I say that wherever the spirit touches you, that's where you need to be regardless if there are 2 people in that church or 2 million. To me, a sign that the word is going forth and is powerful is shown in a church's growth. If an anointing is there, people can sense that and are attracted to it.

What are church's suppossed to say, "Oh well, we have all the members we want, we met our quota, so you have to go learn, fellowship and praise God somewhere else" That's ridiculous!!!!

I feel so much at home at my church (Big up's to New Birth South Metropolitan Church ) We have prob over 12,000 members by now. There are 3 services and about 2000 people per service( ya'll know folks dont come every Sunday) I am active in 2 ministries and I can say that has helped me feel more at home. Even when I wasn't involved, I can say that I wasn't uncomfortable. I always felt God there and I became sooo hungry for Him and His word like never before. I have all trust in God and faith in my Pastor.

Sometimes I get tired of defending my church because of it's size, but that anger always ceases when I talk about how much my life has changed because I was obedient to God's plan for my life. I went where He told me to go and I am reaping the benefits every Sunday, Wednesday and every day!

If you have not been to a megachurch before, at least visit one (do your research first), and see what all the fuss is about before you speak bad about those people that lead those churches and worship there. Just like we can't generalize black women or black men, we can't generalize all mega-churches. Don't become so inindated with the bad reports that you miss all the work God is doing through these ministries.

BE BLESSED!!

This is beautiful, "Proverbs 31 Woman." Your Church makes a wonderful example of what all Churches should be, no matter what size. The key is as the Church grows in size, they are to grow spiritually to maintain the awesome demands and integrity that will be called upon it.

Yes we are to grow, for growth is indication of God's move. Even Jesus says, that any Branch which does not bear fruit, to cut it off. (The fig tree was 'cursed' for not bearing fruit); and the men who were given the talents were called to increase, however the one who hid and buried his allotment was called 'evil.' So yes, we are required to grow.

But there's an old saying, "Don't Let Success go to Your head." So much Mega growth has been more in the 'flesh' than of the Holy Spirit and the move of God; I've seen it, I've lived it; it's still occurring.

Still, your Church is an example of excellence.

Wishing you showers of blessings,

 

[StrawberryQueen]

I don't like them. I like for my churches to be small. I like going to church and seeing "family." I like to know these people personally. I like to be able to call my pastor up and talk to him. I don't like church on powerpoint with welcoming committees who try to extract money and services from you. But at the same time I realize that these mega churches are bringing the word of God to larger audience, which is a blessing for all. But often times in such settings, I feel the message is diluted.

 

[alexstin]

I have been a member of a megachurch here in Atlanta. for almost a yr. Before that, I was active in a church for about 6 yrs that had no more than 150 people, and before that the churches I attended were smaller than that, so I was used to the small church feel.

I say that wherever the spirit touches you, that's where you need to be regardless if there are 2 people in that church or 2 million. To me, a sign that the word is going forth and is powerful is shown in a church's growth. If an anointing is there, people can sense that and are attracted to it.

What are church's suppossed to say, "Oh well, we have all the members we want, we met our quota, so you have to go learn, fellowship and praise God somewhere else" That's ridiculous!!!!

I feel so much at home at my church (Big up's to New Birth South Metropolitan Church ) We have prob over 12,000 members by now. There are 3 services and about 2000 people per service( ya'll know folks dont come every Sunday) I am active in 2 ministries and I can say that has helped me feel more at home. Even when I wasn't involved, I can say that I wasn't uncomfortable. I always felt God there and I became sooo hungry for Him and His word like never before. I have all trust in God and faith in my Pastor.

Sometimes I get tired of defending my church because of it's size, but that anger always ceases when I talk about how much my life has changed because I was obedient to God's plan for my life. I went where He told me to go and I am reaping the benefits every Sunday, Wednesday and every day!

If you have not been to a megachurch before, at least visit one (do your research first), and see what all the fuss is about before you speak bad about those people that lead those churches and worship there. Just like we can't generalize black women or black men, we can't generalize all mega-churches. Don't become so inindated with the bad reports that you miss all the work God is doing through these ministries.

BE BLESSED!!

This is my train of thought as well,