Balance - A Tried and Tested Formula for Church Growth (Print)

Balance - A Tried and Tested Formula for Church Growth
by Ira North

Ira North knew about church growth. Although North died in 1984, his name is still synonymous with that of the Madison Church of Christ in Nashville, TN. His vision helped Madison grow from 400 to more than 4,000 members. But growth was a result of North's application of biblical principles rather than a goal in itself.

North emphasized doctrinal commitment rather than mere pragmatics. His summary chapter opens with this statement: "God does not require that we be big, or wealthy, or powerful, or super smart. What our Heavenly Father requires is faithfulness."

Much of the error that masquerades as progressive thinking would disappear if the church would listen to North's biblical approach. In an era that seems to stress growth at the expense of soundness, North's principles warrant careful examination. Here is "A Tried and Tested Formula" to achieving growth and remaining faithful at the same time. Although Balance was originally published in 1983, its insights and guidance are as timely as tomorrow's newspaper.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. Balance
2. A Strong, Sold, Positive, Sensible Pulpit Is Essential
3. Away With the Funeral Home and Cemetery Atmosphere
4. Where There Is No Delegation There Is Stagnation
5. Time Is Treasure
6. Overbuilt and Underused
7. Condescend to Men of Low Estate
8. The Golden Key to Church Growth
9. "As the Bible School Goes, So Goes the Congregation!"
10. Building a Team Ministry
11. Suffer Little Children
12. A Leader in the Worship Service Will Help
13. A Going Church Is a Growing Church
14. Three Perceptive Observations
15. All Out for the Young People
16. Minority Rule Will Seal Your Doom
17. How Do You Do Things When You Don't Have Any Money?
18. To Him That Hath It Shall Be Given
19. The Loss of Woman Power
20. Involvement, A Necessity
21. Visitation
22. Let Us Remember What Is Required