I am reminded of the value of taking a deep breath when things get overwhelming. This past week, the small church world has blown up due to a short clip on YouTube from Andy Stanley’s weekly message. In this clip, he argues passionately for the value of large church ministries and makes some very strong statements regarding small church ministries. He later apologizes saying ” The negative reaction to the clip from last weekend’s message is entirely justified. Heck, even I was offended by what I said! I apologize.”
So I think it is a good time for all small church people to just take a deep breath. We have all said things on Sunday, we wish we could say differently. The difference is that our messages are not broadcast across the globe each week. Yes, greater impact means greater responsibility, but God has not called us to that ministry, He has called us to small church ministry and remember we are the majority in terms of numbers. God has used North Point and Andy Stanley to do some great things in the Kingdom of God. Let’s not shoot our own.
I understand what He was trying to say. I am a product of the “mega” church. While a teenager, I was in one of the 10 largest churches in America at the time. I was part of a JH/SH Youth Group of 500 and understand the value that it brings. I also have been in rural ministry for the last 24 years. Both have value and one is not better than the other. They both have advantages and disadvantages.
I think the irony is that both seem to idolize the other. The large church seeks to be like the small church by focusing on small groups. The small church seeks to be like the large church by trying to program more activities than they are equipped to handle. Both types of ministries do some things better than others H.B. London used to encourage Pastors to bloom where they are planted. I think that is the best advice for all of us.
THOT: If this issue has gotten under your skin, I would suggest you take a deep breath, accept the apology, and move forward. Let’s focus on the ministry God has called us to do. Are you blooming where God has planted you?
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