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10 Principles for Growing a Dynamic ChurchThink of megachurch pastors and names like Bill Hybels, Mike Breaux, Rick Warren, and Joel Osteen come to mind. Rarely does one think of Bob Russell. Now that I have had the chance to get to know Bob Russell personally, I bet that doesn’t bother him a bit.

Russell was at the helm of Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, KY, one of the largest churches in the nation for more than 40 years. His book, When God Builds a Church: 10 Principles for Growing a Dynamic Church tells the story of Southeast Christian, while distilling principles from Scripture for implementation in other churches.

When God Builds a Church unveils Russell’s philosophy about church growth, as much by what it says as by what it doesn’t say. It is rare that a pastor can give so much practical, godly counsel without his advice devolving into formulas to be replicated everywhere else.

Russell’s principles for a dynamic church begin with Truth (he argues strongly for biblical authority, conservative theology, and a Bible-centured focus) and Worship (he avoids the “worship wars” by calling for selflessness). In the chapter on Leadership, he lays out the biblical case and practical rationale for a plurality of elders.

As one who has frequented Southeast on occasion (and even taught there several times), I appreciated the chapter on Excellence. Say what you may about the mega-church movement. No one can deny that everything at Southeast is done with a spirit of excellence. Would that more churches seek to honor the Lord by offering excellence in every part of church life!

Interspersed throughout the book are Russell’s recollections from his forty years of ministry. In the chapter on Faith, he recalls the sacrificial giving of the congregation. In the chapter on Harmony, he tells of tough moments when the church exercised discipline (highly unusual for a megachurch). Two other chapters (Participation and Fellowship) outline practical ways to get members involved.

Perhaps the most unique part of Russell’s contribution to church growth is his insistence on preaching the truth, even when it makes people uncomfortable. In the chapter on Stewardship, he argues for more preaching on money, even if people do not want to hear it. Russell constantly cuts against the prevalent megachurch mentality that avoids confrontation at all costs.

In the final chapter, Evangelism, Russell explains that being seeker-sensitive does not mean crafting a worship service with the seeker in mind. Instead, it means we should genuinely worship God and grow in our walk, while welcoming seekers into our midst. Southeast does this by having sermons crafted with Christians in mind, and also by serving Communion and baptizing new converts every Sunday.

All in all, When God Builds a Church is the best book I’ve read from anyone associated with the megachurch movement. It is practical and full of sound wisdom and its author is one of the godliest men I know.

written by Trevin Wax. © 2007 Kingdom People Blog

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