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8 Reasons From Tim Keller Not to Give a Megachurch to a Single Successor

Furthermore, Keller believes that having multiple, small congregations is a greater benefit to a city than it would be to have one large church body. “Gospel movements are fueled by the multiplication of generative churches, and diverse leaders,” he said. 

Tim Keller’s eighth and final reason for avoiding the megachurch model is that “megachurches tend to draw people from great distances who then are not geographically close enough to take part in community building, discipleship, and local ministry to the neighborhood of the church. It is harder for them to be other-focused in the local area. Cities and regions can benefit from the unique resources of a megachurch (eg counseling centers, seminaries). But in general, the area—and the Christians—will benefit more from 10 churches of 400 scattered throughout the city, rather than one church of 4,000 in the middle of it.”

Reactions to Tim Keller

Ryan Visconti, one of the lead pastors of Generation Church in the Phoenix, Ariz., area, pushed back on Tim Keller’s thoughts. “With great respect, pastor Tim,” he said, “These are sweeping generalizations that could be true for you, but are not necessarily true everywhere. Church critics will use your words as ammunition to attack other healthy churches. I dare say, this is unfair.” Visconti continued, “And I hate to say this out loud, and I’m not accusing you of this, but this SOUNDS in some ways like virtue signaling even though I’m sure your motives are pure. It’s easy when you’re leaving and puts the rest of us in a worse spot.”

Others, however, disagreed with Visconti’s take. User Aaron Reindel said, “They are certainly generalizations but they are not sweeping nor unfair. They are backed by a ton of evidence, anecdotal and empirical, and while nobody can say 100 percent that every megachurch should take this route, It’s a reliable guide. How does this put you in worse spot?”

Bruce Terrell, executive director of Redeemer East Side, commented, “I’d also add that we were animated by our core vision to not be about building a great church, but instead ‘to help build a great city for all people through a movement of the gospel.’ Gospel movements are fueled by the multiplication of generative churches, diverse leaders, etc.”

Many people commented on Keller’s post with affirmation. “Excellent points,” said Facebook user Dave Gipson. “I wouldn’t have agreed 10 years ago. But now after having served megachurches and medium sized churches, I believe I feel more successful at ministering to people in the medium-sized ones.”

User Betsy Blatchley said, “Much important wisdom here. Though we would doubtless disagree on quite a bit theologically I have been much blessed by your writing. So thank you.”