Different Types of Churches: The Traditional Church
Exponential NEXT has put out a podcast series on 7 different types of church expressions. The first one they discuss is what many might deem the “classic” type of church plant. You know the kind–sent out from a church with a typical Sunday morning service, a core group of people, and some funding. The hosts interview Léonce Crump—Co-Founder and Senior Pastor of United Church. As I was listening to the conversation, a few things stood out.
Covid Only Revealed the Gaps
As we look back over the past 5+ years, we can all agree that Covid was absolutely detrimental in many ways. But we must be cautious not to only blame Covid for the decline of church attendance, for it only revealed what was already going on for some time. Crump said, “People didn’t know how to be followers of Jesus without a weekly gathering.” He says out loud what we know, that there is a difference between believing in Jesus and being discipled to follow Jesus.
“Even the demons believe—and they shudder.” James 2:19b, CSB
Advice for Traditional Church Planting
Crump shares some basic keys for traditional church planting. He recommends:
Start with 30-50 adults for long-term viability
Be connected to a sending church that helps in raising the team and develops relationships
Pray for God’s Spirit to move alongside the working of the systems of discipleship and development
He also points out the importance of first being submitted to another leader before stepping into leadership. Indeed, we have all seen the charismatic maverick step up into something new only to burnout themselves and their congregation. Resilience as a pastor is necessary in any church, but especially in a church plant.
“Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up.” Galatians 6:9, CSB
Planting Will Only Magnify Your Deficiencies
Crump gets real with the audience when asked by the interviewer Carrie Williams to talk to the heart of any person considering planting. “Your influence can’t outpace your sanctification.” He goes on to share his personal experience of when his Bible study went from personal to performative. Growing as a disciple of Christ first MUST take precedence over planting or even pastoring. Sabbath. Devotional life. Confessional community. We must know that we are a child of God over any other identity, including as a church planter.
The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit.” John 15:5, CSB
We Need More Churches
If you are reading this, chances are you are convinced of this point already. But Crump hits it home. He references some stats that point out the number of people who are not in a committed relationship with Jesus. Of course, this is compelling. He points out that we also need people to revitalize and replant existing churches, a different skillset for sure. He reminds us that new churches reach more people for Christ. The host concludes with the reminder that for every four churches that close, only one is planted. Bottom line: We still need to be planting all forms of new church expressions, including the traditional church model.
“Therefore, pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:38, CSB
Conclusion
The world really does need more churches, but even more than that, it needs men and women who are being shaped deeply by Jesus. When we lead from formation instead of performance, the fruit shows up in all the right ways.
The prayer is simple: that God would raise up workers who are faithful, grounded, and ready for whatever he asks next.
Amen.
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