READ: 1 Peter 5:1-7
“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.” – Proverbs 27:23
Church growth is accomplished through constant effort. Without persistence in seeking the growth of the church, you will never have a mega church. Many pastors are unwilling to apply the relentless, unremitting and exacting efforts that are required to accomplish church growth. The church, like a farm, will require you to bestow much labour on it.
Diligence is the constant and earnest effort to accomplish what is undertaken. Diligence is the persistent exertion of your body and mind towards your goal. Church growth happens by being attentive and persistent in building the church. Church growth happens through diligence. “The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want” (Proverbs 21:5). Church growth will be given to pastors who believe in diligence. Church growth will be given to pastors who are relentless in their pursuit of church expansion.
“I WARN and counsel the elders among you (the pastors and spiritual guides of the church) as a fellow elder and as an eyewitness [called to testify] of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a sharer in the glory (the honor and splendor) that is to be revealed (disclosed, unfolded):
Tend (nurture, guard, guide, and fold) the flock of God that is [your responsibility], not by coercion or constraint, but willingly; not dishonorably motivated by the advantages and profits [belonging to the office], but eagerly and cheerfully;” (1 Peter 5:1-2).