5 Essential Strategies for Growing a Church Beyond 50 People

So, you’re here because you’re curious about how to grow your church. Maybe you’re part of a church planting team and are seeking ways to help your new congregation thrive. Or perhaps you’re facing the challenge of stagnant numbers and desire to see your church grow and touch more lives with the gospel message. 

Whatever your motivation for diving into this topic, let’s get one thing straight: wanting to grow your church is a good thing! Growing a church is not just about increasing numbers for the sake of success; it’s about taking seriously the Christian mandate to go out into the world and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). 

The Lord Builds the Church

When pastors ask questions about how to increase church attendance or how to increase church membership, the heart behind this should always be about how to grow the Church (the “capital C Church”).  

As an important disclaimer, it’s essential to acknowledge that we are not the ones solely responsible for growing our churches. Psalm 127:1 reminds us, "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain." This means that no matter how hard we work or how clever our plans are, true growth only comes when we partner with God's work and guidance.

Growing a Church from 50 to 100

Let me share a story I recently heard from a pastor serving in Oahu, Hawaii. His team planted a church just over a year ago, and for about a year, they hovered around the 50-person mark. While grateful for the faithful individuals in their community, their vision stretched beyond their current congregation—they longed to impact the entire island for Jesus. Through perseverance, partnership with the Holy Spirit, and patience, they've seen growth, averaging between 80-90 attendees over the past three months.

I share this because many pastors lead churches that remain under the 100-person mark. While this is a wonderful size for a congregation, it's natural to desire to reach more people in your community. When we do our part, God can grow His church according to His plan.

That said, the following five strategies blend leadership and growth principles that may help you in growing a church from 50 to 100 people. While there's no one-size-fits-all formula for church growth – and we certainly can't confine God's work to a box – these strategies may offer valuable insights to consider and pray over as you journey forward.

How to Grow Your Church: 5 Strategies to Consider

1. Think Beyond Sundays

I love a good Sunday service, and I understand that the Sunday worship gathering is a key component in the life of a church. Even still, we must recognize that growing the church requires us to think beyond our Sunday gathering. Expanding our reach beyond the church walls and into our communities is essential. 

When we actively engage with our neighbors and meet them in their daily lives, we increase our impact and increase the chances that they will one day make the decision to be part of the church family!

Whether through hands-on service projects, lively social events, or interactive online platforms, think through ways you can engage in outreach beyond the traditional church environment.

2. Invest in Your Leaders

Wondering how to grow your church? Start by investing in your leaders (and by this, I mean any and all volunteers who lead by serving)! Behind every thriving church are dedicated leaders who shepherd and inspire their congregations. I’m talking about the people who get to service early to set up and stay long after to tear down. The ones who pray incessantly for your congregation and who you can call for favors because you know they have your back. These leaders are the backbone of your church, and they deserve investment! 

Make time in your schedule to meet with these leaders, and take time to pray about how you can pour into their growth. Provide opportunities for them to share their vision and ideas for your church, fostering a culture of collaboration and ownership. Every time your leaders are empowered to use their gifts, your church will be better for it!

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3. Listen to the Holy Spirit

When I was part of a church planting team a few years ago, we broke every rule in the book. We barely advertised ourselves as a new church. We met on Sunday nights – a time popular for young adults – when we were in a community that was full of young families. Our worship time went way longer than the traditional three-song setlist. 

While we cared about strategy, we knew that sometimes the Holy Spirit has other plans. We believed that God had a unique plan for our church community (as He does for every church) and we wanted to say yes to what He had for us, even if it didn’t look like the status quo.

God has a unique plan for your church, too. As you are thinking through how to grow a church, remember to take time to ask Him about the “what” and “how.” Then trust Him with the rest!

4. Focus on Impact, Not Just Numbers

Growing a church isn’t just about expanding numbers. As you consider how to increase church attendance at your church, make sure to think through your impact, as well. 

Are there ways you can better steward the congregation God has currently put before you? Can you provide new opportunities for your congregation to engage in service and ministry beyond the typical Sunday gathering? Do you take time to celebrate stories of transformation and life change, highlighting the ways God is working in and through your church community?

Remember, it's not just about growing wide; it's about growing deep and making a lasting impact for the kingdom of God.

5. Prioritize Discipleship

At the end of the day, we’re called to make disciples - not just church members. If you are wondering how to increase church membership or how to grow a church, begin thinking about how you can make discipleship an even greater priority at your church.

Develop discipleship pathways that cater to individuals at every stage of their faith journey, from new believers to seasoned veterans. Encourage a culture of accountability and mutual support, where believers can journey together in their pursuit of Christ-likeness. Provide opportunities for ongoing learning and growth, such as small group studies, discipleship classes, and mentoring relationships. By prioritizing discipleship, you'll equip and empower believers to live out their faith authentically and impact their world for Christ.

Bonus Tip on How to Grow the Church: Embrace Flexibility and Adaptability

Because I really care about this topic, I’m adding a bonus tip about how to grow a church! In addition to the five essential strategies outlined above, it's crucial to embrace flexibility and adaptability as you navigate the journey of growing your church. The landscape of ministry is ever-changing, and what works today may not necessarily work tomorrow. Therefore, remain open to trying new approaches, experimenting with different methods, and being willing to pivot when necessary.

Listen attentively to feedback from your congregation and community, and be willing to adjust your strategies accordingly. Stay attuned to the leading of the Holy Spirit, trusting that He will guide you in the right direction as you seek to fulfill the mission of your church. Remember, growth requires a willingness to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new opportunities as they arise. So, stay flexible, stay adaptable, and above all, stay faithful to the call of God on your church's life.

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