If you are like many church leaders, you have read several books or articles dealing with church growth. Many of these publications share exciting, new methodologies and principles which seem to engender growth. Some critics, however, have rightly pointed out that some of the methodologies are discussed with little biblical or theological foundation. The church growth writers are not necessarily unbiblical. They are simply assuming without articulating biblical truths.

As the church of Jesus Christ, we need to be absolutely clear about some biblical principles for growth that are non-negotiable. In this two-part article, we will review the 10 non-negotiable principles that are the foundation of our mission and methods. We may change our methods, but these truths are eternal and unchanging.

1. The Glory of God Is Our Motivation

The apostle Paul told the Corinthian church: "Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31). We who are church leaders must continually ask ourselves: "What is my motivation in leading my church?"

In our eagerness to grow churches we can look at the growth and its numerical results as our goal. The numbers can take on an importance that is not from God. We are first children of God and then leaders of the church. In both roles, nothing is more important than bringing glory to our Lord.

2. God Is in Total Control

One of the greatest assurances I have as a Christian and church leader is that God is sovereign, which means that He is in absolute control (Eph. 1:11). Many times in my own ministry, I have seen the spontaneity of the Holy Spirit's work, which defies any plan or methodology. Such sovereign displays by God remind me that He is in control and that my church is really His church.

God's sovereign decree does not violate humankind's free will, nor does it make it unnecessary to seek methods of church growth. While Paul proclaimed with fervor the sovereignty of God, he also proclaimed with equal conviction the necessity of human intervention and preaching for church growth (Acts 16:13; Rom. 10:14-15; 1 Cor. 9:16).

When we use methods in obedience to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, we do not contradict the truth of God's sovereignty. One of the great joys of our faith is that God desires that we might be intermediaries in sharing the good news of His Son.

3. Christ Is the Only Way

The exclusivity of the gospel of Jesus Christ is an unpopular doctrine these days. With around 90 percent of Americans believing in an afterlife, heaven or hell, the overwhelming belief is that there is no single way to get to heaven.

My denomination's belief that Christ is the only way of salvation has recently become newsworthy. Various local and national media have interviewed me about "Southern Baptist beliefs." What I have attempted to tell these interviewers is that the exclusiveness of salvation through Christ is not first a Southern Baptist belief. It is a biblical truth that came from the words of Jesus Himself (John 14:6). The truth of the cross is offensive to the world.

In our enthusiasm to lead churches to growth, we must never compromise this truth. The fact that Christ is the only way and that hell is a real consequence for those who reject Him is not a "user-friendly" concept. But it is truth, and it must be communicated.

4. Christ Builds the Church

The issue of jealousy between leaders of different churches is a real one. I am sure that every person who reads these articles can think of a church which is growing more rapidly than their own. More times than many of us would like to admit, our carnal nature evokes feelings of jealousy and inadequacy when we hear of such churches.

A kingdom mind-set, however, sees things differently. First, all Christian churches are Christ's churches. Second, Jesus is the builder of churches, not ourselves. In His historic discussion with Peter, Jesus said, "I will build my church" (Matt. 16:18, my emphasis). We are in the kingdom business, and we all work for the same Master. There is no room for jealousy and competitive spirits.

5. The Bible Is Our Authority

I appreciate your reading this article. It has been my prayer while writing it that God would use this article to encourage church leaders. Indeed you have access to many outstanding books on the church and leadership.

All such church growth resources and tools may be beneficial to you and your church. The tools of church growth are not inherently evil, as some critics imply. But, these tools and resources must always be within the bounds of Scripture and subject to biblical authority. The Bible is our authority, and it is our ultimate church growth book.

A building is only as strong as the foundation it is built upon. I invite you to continue examining these foundational principles next week.