I always say this as a disclaimer so I don’t get crucified:
I’m not a pastor, a theologian, or a professor.
This is just a blog, and blogs should always be taken with a grain of salt. That said, based on my personal experiences visiting and attending different churches, I’d like to add my two cents on what could help churches grow, especially in this generation.

There are six things (broken down into smaller parts) that can make or break a church, and I’d like to share them. I’m not claiming these are the only things, and I’m definitely not saying they’re the most important, but they are without question critical for any church that wants to succeed.

Spiritual Foundation

Everything we do in this life needs a solid foundation. A church is more than just a building; it’s an assembly of believers coming together to worship God. Meaning God is the center, the focus and so He ought to be the foundation (Psalm 127:1). I love the song by Maverick City & Chandler Moore that says ‘Christ is my firm foundation, the Rock on which I stand.’

But how does one build this foundation? Very simple; with prayer and sound doctrine.

Prayer

Prayer isn’t all about asking God for the next revelation or miracle. It connects us to God because without prayer, we rely on human strength and knowledge. There is a reason why no matter how rich or famous we might think we are, we pray in the name of Jesus and not in our own names.

Prayer also births revival and it is very important that we revive our spirit every single day (2 Corinthians 4:16). We shouldn’t wait until the next big conference or concert. Everyday should be our own personal revival; making sure our light isn’t dimmed.

And lastly prayer sustains growth; it doesn’t matter how fancy your church looks, how good the choir sounds or how hyped everyone is after the sermon. At the end of the day, the church belongs to God (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).

Teaching

According to John 1:1 we know that God created the heavens and the earth, The Word was there in the beginning and the Word is God. What better way to knowing God than by knowing His Word? Part of having a solid foundation means being rooted. His Word grounds us.

Not only does His Word give us life, it also transforms our lives. We are given advice, instructions, revelations, prophecy’s….God gave us something tangible to hold unto in times where we might be swayed. He gave us words to remember Him by because how can you recognize the voice of God if you don’t know what His words sound like (John 10:27)?

Healthy Leadership

Leadership is a very important part of any human gathering. A leader can make or break his group (workplace, sports, school work and church). I’m not talking about the pastor alone; churches are not a one man show so when it comes to leadership, I don’t believe it should be placed in the hands of one man. Even Moses didn’t lead the Israelites alone out of Egypt .

Vision

A church without vision is like a ship without a destination; everyone works hard, but the congregation goes in circles. Starting another church in a city with existing congregations requires a specific, God-given assignment.

Why is God calling this church into existence?
What unique purpose or mission does it serve?
Without a clear answer, it risks becoming “just another church” rather than a movement fulfilling God’s distinct calling.

Having a vision gives direction, it inspires people and brings them together (Amos 3:3).

Leadership development

Leaders ought to give birth to leaders. Prophets in the bible had a protégé for when their time was up; someone to continue the good work. A church cannot thrive if all responsibility rests on a few leaders. When we multiply leaders, we multiply impact. More leaders mean more ministries, more outreach, and more people being reached for Christ.

Empowered leaders also serve boldly! Training and mentoring give leaders the confidence and competence to step into their calling. When leaders are equipped, they serve with clarity, courage, and creativity; making decisions that honor God and advance His kingdom.

Knowledge is power!

Character & Integrity

Leadership requires more than authority and knowledge.
A leader must be trustworthy; When a leader’s word is reliable and their actions match their promises, people follow willingly, knowing they are being led by someone honest. A leader’s life is a reflection of God’s presence, power and wisdom. When leaders walk in humility, honesty, and righteousness, God honors their service and multiplies the fruit of their ministry. Meaning a compromised life can hinder growth and limit the impact of the church.

Community & Relationships

Community and relationships are what make the church alive, attractive, and sustainable. A healthy church reflects the love of God for His people.

Servitude

Ministry is service to God and His people, so being a minister actually means you’re a servant and not the Lord and king of the congregation under your anointing. Servitude reflects Christ’s example. Jesus came to serve, not to be served. Leaders and members alike must follow His example.

Service also multiplies impact; acts of service (no matter how big or small) build bridges between people and open doors for other ministries.

Hospitality

Hospitality makes people feel welcome. Newcomers are more likely to return when they experience genuine warmth. It’s not just about the warm smiles or the snacks after service; Hospitality reflects Christ’s love and even small acts of kindness can point people to Jesus.

Hospitality strengthens relationships; sharing meals, conversations, and homes deepens connection and trust. The church should be more than praying and fasting.

Love & Friendship

God is love and genuine love binds members together and makes the church attractive to outsiders because it reflects the nature of God. It shows that the church has the Spirit of God. Friendship also strengthens commitment. Close relationships encourage accountability, mentorship, and mutual growth. It makes it more difficult for the enemy to sow discord. When we care for one another, practical support, prayer, and encouragement flow naturally.

Relevant Ministries

Church groups

A church must minister in ways that meet people where they are. Youth are not only the church of tomorrow but part of the church today, and investing in their spiritual growth raises future leaders, worshippers, and evangelists. Men’s and women’s ministries provide opportunities for fellowship, mentorship, and accountability, strengthening personal faith, family life, and leadership within the church. Children’s ministry nurtures the youngest members, combining teaching, creativity, and fun to instill lifelong faith and godly character. By intentionally engaging every demographic, a church becomes vibrant, relevant, and capable of reaching its community effectively.

When one group is forgotten or neglected, the shift is visible. We need strong men, women and children to fight this fight. Not only do these different groups need to grow individually, it’s also important that they can work together.

Gifts & Talents

Every believer has been uniquely gifted by God, and identifying and using these gifts helps the church function effectively (Romans 12:6-8). Spiritual gifts like teaching, evangelism, mercy, and administration, together with natural talents like singing and cooking, prepare members to serve where they are most effective and fulfilled.

When people serve in alignment with their gifts, ministry becomes more impactful, joy and commitment increase. From leading worship, teaching children, serving in care ministries, or mentoring others…..each contribution builds the body of Christ and advances the gospel.

It is important to know what God has given you, why He gave it to you and what He wants you to use it for (Matthew 25:14-30). By recognizing and empowering each others gifts, the church maximizes its potential.

Effective Systems

Communication

How do we communicate with our fellow church brothers and sisters? Do we do this with love? Are we honest to one another and is everyone up to date with the latest news?

How to we communicate to the outside world? Do we show harmony or enmity? Does the world know what we stand for? Do they hear the messages we send out? Are we visible to the world?

Any group that doesn’t know how to communicate (internally or externally) won’t last long.

Administration

Strong administrative systems provide structure for ministry, ensuring that programs run efficiently and responsibilities are clear. This is quite broad; from managing finances and volunteers to organizing schedules and events. When things are done properly to the glory of God they bring honor and fruitfulness to His kingdom.

Doing our best and giving our all in every task, whether in worship, ministry, administration, or service, reflects our reverence for Him.

Logistics

Proper logistics support the practical side of ministry, creating an environment where worship, programs, and outreach can thrive. Attention to facilities, technology, and event planning ensures that the church can serve effectively and provide meaningful experiences for members and visitors alike.

You can’t survive in the 21st century with a 19th century mindset. Who is your target audience and how do you plan to cater to them?

Outreach & Evangelism

God calls us to reach the lost, the hurting, and those who have never encountered Him. Outreach and evangelism happen when the church is equipped, intentional, and mission-minded.

Events & Invitation

Don’t be that church that is always hosting events in an attempt to prevent your members from leaving the church. Let there be a reason for your event but also be the kind of church that people want to invite. Leave your safe space and go out there and minister unto others. Be a blessing to others but also allow yourself to be blessed by others. No one knows it all and there’s always something to learn from others.

Being intentional about invitations; inviting friends, neighbors, and colleagues and responding to invitations to connect with others expands our reach. Networking and relational engagement, combined with organized events, multiply our impact and open doors for growth.

Missional Living

Evangelism is more than programs; it’s a lifestyle. Every believer is called to live missionally by making disciples of all nations in their schools, workplaces, neighborhoods, and social circles (Matthew 28:18-20). Missional living demonstrates the gospel authentically, showing Christ’s love through actions, words, and daily decisions.

Let your life be a living testimony but don’t let that be an excuse for actual evangelism.

Training

Training equips members with wisdom, understanding, and with this comes the confidence to share the gospel naturally and to make disciples who can train others (2 Timothy 2:2). A church where members are empowered to teach and disciple sees exponential multiplication and sustained growth.

Stay Blessed x