We had a great day Sunday worshipping our God and studying His word. I hope that you were able to be a part of it. God calls us to worship Him on each First day of the week and what an awesome opportunity it is. In this edition of the Messenger enjoy the following article from Bro. B.J. Clarke on church growth.

The secret to church growth is really no secret. It is plainly revealed within the pages of God’s word. You don’t have to travel hundreds of miles to a soul-winning workshop to unlock the secret of church growth. You don’t have to travel to the bookstore to purchase the latest volume written to reveal the mystery of church growth. Just travel over to the bookcase, pull down your copy of the sacred writings, open it to the New Testament and start reading. Read of the life and ministry of Jesus. Read of how Jesus preached peace and went about doing good (Jn. 16:33; Acts 10:38). Read of how he demonstrated his love for the lost (Mk. 10:21; Jn. 15:13).

Read of how he spoke the truth in love without ever compromising (Mt. 15:3-14). Read of the Jerusalem church and their common love for Christ and one another (Acts 2:44-47; 4:32-37). Read of how the first century Christians went everywhere preaching the word (Acts 8:4). Read of the tremendous sacrifices endured by the Apostle Paul so that the cause of Christ might be advanced (2 Cor. 11:23-28). Note the duties and qualifications of elders and deacons (I Tim. 3:1-13). Read the epistles to understand God’s will for each member of the Lord’s body. After you’ve read and read and read some more, read Revelation 1:3 to learn that just reading is not enough.