Table of Contents
Introduction to the Publishing-Centered Model of Church Growth
Explain the problem and give hope the literature can help solve it.
Publishing is not an optional infrastructure. It is necessary and fundamental. You say, “But we've been operating for 50 years without it.” Imagine the results if publishing had been integrated into the plan from the beginning!
Problem: Slow Growth
How would you like to improve the rate of growth of the Adventist church?
Churches depend almost entirely on preaching events. This produces decisions, but not stable disciples.
Literature is seen as for the colporteurs only, or it is not available.
Members do not understand the importance of literature. They don't read it themselves.
Cause: A Broken Cycle
We don't have enough pastors. We don't have enough money. Let's see a standard evangelistic campaign. What percentage is used for:
- Preparation
- Presentation
- Follow-up
The cycle of evangelism is typically described in 5 basic steps:
- Prepare the ground
- Plant the seed
- Cultivate
- Harvest
- Preservation
People like 2 & 4. They often neglect 1 & 3 & 5.
Solution: Apply SOP Counsel
The solution is already spelled out in detail. We need revival, and with revival comes reform and obedience to God's commands.
Move from an event-based evangelism to a lifestyle of discipleship.