We like the idea of growth. We enjoy talking about sharing Jesus and the good feeling that comes when someone makes their confession of faith and is baptized. But at a certain point, for most people, we would rather our Church stay the same size it is today.

We start attending a place of worship, and something about it “clicks” with us. We like the music, the people are friendly, and we enjoy the sense of connection to this community. Often, we can walk right up to our pastor and talk to him, invite him over to visit, and have him at our beck and call for all things Church related. We can use the building whenever we like for whatever we like. We can share our insights on what we enjoy and want at a Church, and other people will agree, value our opinions, and make adjustments.

Then, when a Church crests over 250 in average attendance, everything changes. EVERYTHING.

It is too great of a change for most people. Many quit and search for another small Church which feels more comfortable.

The Church we once loved now has people we do not know. The pastor is not always available. Building use has to be scheduled, and restrictions must be applied. Worship changes. No longer is everything comfortable the way it once was to us, and our opinions no longer seem to have the value they once did.

One of the biggest challenges for Churches is to keep reaching new people despite the displeasure of the Christians who attend currently. The biggest hurdle to a Church reaching new people with faith is often moving past the comfort level of its members.

It is a strange thing to recognize, but liking the “idea” of a Church reaching lots of new people is not the same thing as actually wanting your Church to do it.