by H.A. Moldez, A3 / Philippines
Is Bigger Better?
The thinking that you must grow big to make a difference has crept in the church. I have heard several times of evangelical leaders urging pastors to level up so as to grow big churches to transform the nation. Where is this perspective coming from?
The way of the kingdom is to make an impact not by becoming a big star, but by being like small seed—not by becoming large but as little yeast silently saturating the entire dough.
God's way is not to make an impact on the way to greatness but by the way of grace. So God has chosen the little people to shame the lords of this world and the simple to silent the scholars of this age (1 Corinthians 1:26-28). This may appear foolishness but the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:23-25).
It discredits human pride to declare God's praise (vv.29, 31). It is the mystery of divine power revealed in human powerlessness.
God may choose to elevate some of us to strategic places of power like Joseph, Daniel, and Nehemiah. But even these spiritual heroes made an impact not by using their position of influence, but through prayer, integrity, and courage to stand for God.
Making Kingdom Impact
We make an impact for the kingdom by grace not by becoming great—not by joining the fan club of celebrity, but the fellowship of the crucified. It is not by showing a perfect work in the name of excellence but by striving and struggling with imperfect work by the world's standard and rendered in humility, holiness, and hope. It is not ensuring to execute a perfect performance, but to entrust everything in prayer while we struggle with our inadequacy.
It is God who will make the work grow fruitful as we serve according to our calling (1 Corinthians 3:5-9). What is amazing is that, even when we think it's a failure, God often makes it fruitful. Or when we are not there to perform, God is at work to accomplish His work.
What is Behind the Desire to Grow Big?
Sometimes the ambition to grow big for God could just be a desire to impress others on how close we are to God. It becomes the work of the false self rather than of the Spirit (Philippians 3:1-9). It could just be another way of masking the dark side by performance, position, and prestige.
Indeed, how difficult it is to empty ourselves of pride when we are exalted with power. It is difficult to be humble when we are regarded as honorable. It is not easy to remain simple when we're already successful. May God make us servants only!
Think and Talk:
- What is your strategy to make a difference in your community?
- In what ways are the present intentional discipleship practices copying the success model of the world?
- How can your small church become a significant agent of the kingdom of God?
- What will you change to discover the power of powerlessness?
Herman Moldez
Leadership Team, A3/Philippines
More Information
- Other articles from Herman:
- Country Profile: Philippines
- Other articles about the Philippines
- Image credits:
- Cover: Photo by Blum on Unsplash
- Inset: Photo by Andriyko Podilnyk on Unsplash
