Simple Church

I have really been enjoying reading "Simple Church" by Tom Ranier and Eric Geiger. They have this quote on the inside cover , "Relax. This book is not about another church model."

The writers make a distinction between a complex church and a simple church. In a simple church, everything fits together to produce life change. In other words, a simple church is all about PROCESS. In a complex church, nothing fits together - but they are busy! It's all about the PROGRAMS. Leaders compete for volunteers, budget money and time.

In a complex church, promotion of events occupies a lot of time. Ministers spend a lot of time organizing events and begging people to come. The effectiveness of the church is judged based on how events are attended! (Ouch, that hurt!) Registration is low; frustration is very high.

In a simple church, processing people as disciples occupies the time. The staff uses their time to organize and promote activities that are within the process. People are not bombarded with too many options on programming. Registration is high; frustrations are low.

The writers note that their research shows that almost every church that is growing is a simple church. Virtally no complex churches are growing!

Is your church simple or complex?

We will continue this discussion . . . .