I enjoy getting feedback on my Messianic blog. I’ve received some compliments on my comments on church/synagogue growth that were a pleasant surprise. I should clarify, however, I’m not really a decision-maker at the congregation where I currently teach. Really, and I say this only partially in jest, but my opinion on things is about as useful as a motorcycle jack. Well, maybe slightly more useful, but decision-making? That is in the hands of others. I simply help where I’m asked to help.
I did, however, form my views on growth while studying under my Messianic rabbi. The idea or concept of keeping each congregation small enough for one rabbi or pastor to keep track of and know everyone is a concept I drew from him. And I’ve come to internalize it and believe it’s a wise view.
As I’ve said before and elsewhere, the biggest danger facing the Messianic movement today is growth and popularity. The Messianic/Hebrew roots movement is becoming trendy, and fast becoming one of the fastest-growing movements in organized religion.
That means a lot of new opportunities for Messianic ministry will open up, especially as the first generation of Messianic teachers drifts toward retirement. But that’s the danger, because the real challenge now is to ensure that the next wave of Messianic ministers and rabbis are fully trained and discipled, true followers of Rabbi Yeshua and who know thoroughly how to worship the Father in spirit and in truth.
Too often, when this kind of growth and replacement happen simultaneously, folks get rushed into congregational leadership roles without that full training and discipling process taking place. And that can lead to bad theology, inaccurate teaching and an even greater risk of scandals within the movement. It’s a challenge most movements have faced at one time or another.
I’ve always believed that it’s better to take the time to properly train and disciple people than it is to really watch a movement grow as fast as possible. Quality is by far preferable to quantity, in my book. The consequences of ignoring this could easily lead to the watering down of the movement, and I for one have little interest in a “Messianic” church that is indistinguishable from one that is Lutheran, Baptist, Assembly of God or, on the other side of the fence, Orthodox, Conservative, or Reformed.
Plenty of those out there. As a Messianic, let’s be truly Messianic “throughout our generations.”
Tags: church growth, motorcycle jack