What's the right size?

The last time I wrote/reflected was November 2021, and it was probably the most insightless post I had written. (see how I start my day? So critical) I stop this self-criticizing today; knowing it will take time to rid myself of it.

I am currently serving a church in Kansas City called Country Club United Methodist. I love it; the people are wonderful. They challenge me and push me to use my creative skills. I am a highly motivated and self-directed person so I highly value this aspect of them. I've realized, though, that I spend most of my time challenging the leadership board to take on projects so we can make new disciples of Jesus Christ.

They are the starting point, and why I ask all our board members to be members in "good standing, and committed to our mission.

My Devotional today asked this reflection question: "What is the right size for my church? My family, my fellowship, my circle of obligation?"

The last three questions are pretty easy for me to answer, but my church?

I have to start that process of thinking with how I understand Jesus.

Jesus says, "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit..." Matthew 28:19

There are almost 8 BILLION people on the planet, roughly 55.89% believe in the God of Abraham. So that means there are about 3.56 BILLION people to go convert. That's a scary number and I don't think I can do that! So, for me? The right size is NOT that large.

So, then I have to think about how many I can care for? Statistically speaking, any one person can only care for about 12 people deeply all at once (I learned this in a small group training session - so I will credit Roger Ross). While a church of 12 people is a fabulous size, so long as people are growing as disciples, I don't think that works for me. I have to live with the fact that I will not be able to care deeply for every person in my church. I mean, I care for them, but I want to equip other leaders to create small groups so that we are creating small communities of care.

I can realistically care for and lead 12 members of my congregation, and for me those are the members of the board. These are the people who I trust are committed to the mission.

There are currently 15 people on the board and if all of them care for 10 people - that's 150, meaning for the time being - the right size for my church is 150.