"Church Growth" is defined as "the science that investigates the nature, function, and health of Christian churches as they relate specifically to the effective implementation of God's commission to 'make disciples of all nations'"(Matthew 28:19). The Great Commission has always served as the guide and motive for church growth efforts.

Our purpose is also guided by the Great Commission. There is only one command (an imperative) in the passage -- make disciples. There are three ways (participles) to accomplish the command -- go, baptize, and teach.

We are commanded to make disciples. This was Jesus' own mission passed on to the church. "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10).

Church Growth is more than evangelism, but evangelism is our number one priority. Churches can't mature disciples without first seeking the lost and sharing the Good News. Our top priority is to encourage churches toward active and effective evangelism.

Evangelism, however, does not happen in a vacuum. It's most effective in a healthy church in terms of good leadership, dynamic worship, and quality ministries designed to strengthen the membership. Consequently, a second priority is to encourage churches in these areas as well. This issue reflects our concern for these two priorities -- to make disciples and to mature disciples.