While I agree with you that church should not be put on by a few paid professionals, I do believe in the five fold ministry found in Ephesians 4:11-13, “11 It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, 12 to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. ” According to the Bible, God calls pastors and teachers, not to do all the work of the ministry, but to prepare God’s people for works of service. There is a Biblical calling to be a pastor, of which I believe I have been given. But that role is to serve as a trainer, instructor, encourager and facilitator.

This is the model that will grow the church. Not a gimmicky ministry, but a ministry that attempts to follow the Biblical outline of church structure and life.

“So here’s what I want you to do. When you gather for worship, each one of you be prepared with something that will be useful for all: Sing a song, teach a lesson, tell some special revelation God has given or speaks an unknown language or explain what the language means, let everything be constructive and edifying and for the good of all !” I Cor 14:26

Note is does not say church is put on by paid professionals, it says “each one” does something, it is so awesome to be part of that kind of church. Church is not to be a spectator event, everyone has a part and does it (I’m not talking about changing diapers or passing out bulletins here, I talking about the things listed in the verse), no one just sets and observes.

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-48

Note that it is based on fellowship, community, love, sharing, prayer, teaching and no one was lacking anything. And no need for church growth seminars, programs or marketing plans needed, when real church is happening, God adds to it. Believe me once you have been part of a church that does what you read in those two verses, you will never settle for anything less.

thats a great vision and hope to become a memeber of such a church. wow, just reading gave me chills of whats to come. a blessed man you are sir.