We are growing. The building is fuller each Sunday. More visitors are among us each Sunday. Where are they all coming from?
You are inviting your family. You are inviting your friends. Two weeks ago Tyrone and Sarah, new members, invited their parents. Last Sunday Tinus, a new young adult, brought his brother and sister-in-law. And Ricardo, from a church in Pretoria, invited his friend, and came along this Sunday to settle him in. There are too many examples to list them all. God is at work among us. And that excites us. And so, we are inviting family and friends to join us.
It is Spring. People are emerging from hibernation. Some are seeking a new church. Did you know, according to expert Thom Rainer, approximately 82% of the unchurched are somewhat likely to attend if invited by a friend. We want to help you make the invite. Thus we printed cards with our details on them. The idea is simple. Give one to a neighbour. Hand one to a colleague. Use them to say come to church with me. We printed more to meet the demand. So grab a handful this Sunday They’ll be available in the lobby. This is a practical way to execute our mission. To reach Benoni with the gospel.
This past Sunday 218 souls gathered for worship. Our hall seats 266. We were at 82% capacity. I have read that crowding limits growth at the 80% mark (Hotchkiss). An academic study I read today says it begins at 57% (Duke). We have additional constraints. Our parking is limited. These are great problems. But they are real problems. Pray for our elders. Pray for our executive. As we explore how God would have us steward this growth well.
Growth is not about numbers. It is about people. Every number is a soul. Every soul has a name. Every name is known by Christ. Every seat is an opportunity. An opportunity to hear the gospel. An opportunity to meet the Saviour. Our opportunity to reach Benoni with the gospel.
Therefore let us keep inviting. Let us keep praying. Let us keep trusting. The Lord began this good work. He will carry it to completion.