The world needs the influence of the church more than ever. In much of Western culture, the church faces real struggles as it tries to speak into a changing world. The solution isn’t complicated. We need more healthy, vibrant local churches that believe and teach the biblical Good News about Jesus. When the church breaks through, communities benefit. That’s why your church’s growth truly matters.
What It Takes for a Church Breakthrough
There are countless systems and ministry models out there, but real breakthrough doesn’t start with strategy. It starts with mindset. Before structures change, leaders must change.
“An opinion is something you’ll argue about. A conviction is something you’ll die for.”
To grow a healthy church, leaders must hold an unshakable conviction that God wants His church to grow. All living things grow. A church that is spiritually alive will pursue growth with purpose and urgency. Growth is difficult work, which is why conviction matters. Without clarity, discouragement sets in quickly. This mindset shift matters because:
- God commands growth. The Great Commission is a direct call to multiply disciples and expand the church’s reach.
- People long for it. Our world craves a message that carries both truth and humility. That combination opens doors.
The Shift From Minister to Leader
One of the biggest breakthroughs comes from redefining the pastor’s role. Ministry responds to needs. Leadership initiates. A healthy church needs both.
“When someone calls and you pick up the phone, that’s ministry. When you pick up the phone and call someone, that’s leadership.”
Seminaries tend to teach ministry skills. Leadership skills often come through mentorship, training, and experience. Pastors must continually grow in both if the church is going to thrive.
Five Skills Every Pastor Must Develop
To lead a growing, healthy church, pastors need to master five essential skills:
- Communicate your vision. People won’t move toward what they can’t clearly see.
- Motivate through your messages. Preaching should offer hope, direction, and momentum.
- Equip your people for ministry. Coaching is essential. Without equipping, the pastor burns out and the body remains passive.
- Learn how to raise money. Vision requires resources. If you set direction, you must help fund it.
- Manage your time and energy wisely. Leadership requires sustainable rhythms, not constant exhaustion.
