The Great Commission

The primary reason for church growth lies in the Great Commission, as recorded in the book of Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV), where Jesus commands His disciples,

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."

 The expansion of the church is central to fulfilling this commandment. Growth ensures that the message of salvation reaches every corner of the world.

Spiritual Nourishment and Unity

In Acts 2:42-47 (NIV), the early church is described as devoted to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. As the church grew, believers were spiritually nourished, and a sense of unity prevailed. Church growth facilitates the development of vibrant communities where individuals can grow in their faith and support one another in their spiritual journeys.

Reaching the Lost

Jesus' parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:4-7 (NIV) underscores the importance of reaching the lost. He rejoices when the one lost sheep is found, illustrating God's desire for every soul to be saved. Churches must grow to actively seek out those who are lost and in need of God's grace.

Multiplying Gifts and Talents

1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (NIV) highlights the diversity of spiritual gifts within the body of Christ. Church growth allows for the multiplication of these gifts, enabling a more effective ministry. As more members join, a wider range of talents and abilities become available for the service of God and the community.

Financial Sustainability for the Ministry

Supporting the work of the church requires financial resources. Church growth can help to ensure financial sustainability for ministry; as illustrated in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (NIV), cheerful giving is encouraged. As the congregation grows, there is a greater capacity for giving, which in turn enables the church to expand its outreach and charitable activities.

In conclusion, the imperative for church growth is deeply rooted in the Bible. The Great Commission, the need for spiritual nourishment and unity, reaching the lost, multiplying gifts and talents, and achieving financial sustainability all underscore the importance of church growth. As churches grow, they fulfil their mission to make disciples, spread the Gospel, and create communities where individuals can experience spiritual growth and support. Ultimately, church growth is not only a numerical goal but a biblical mandate that empowers the church to fulfil its purpose and impact the world with the message of God's love and salvation.

Join us this Sunday at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. for the trial services. We invite you to attend one of these time slots and to enjoy the cafe which will be open before our 9 a.m. service, between services, and after the conclusion of the second service.

The trial allows you to consider which service best suits your schedule and preferences. Your feedback is vital during this trial period, so please share your thoughts and observations with us. We value your input and hope this adjustment will help us to continue to serve our community effectively. 

To help with traffic flow, we would appreciate you do the following.

• First service entry via Centre Rd and Gwendoline Drive/exit only via Gwendoline Drive after the service, Disabled Bays can exit via Centre Rd.
• Second service entry only via Centre Rd/exit via Centre Rd and Gwendoline Drive after the service.

We look forward to worshiping with you and embracing this growth together!

Be a blessing by sponsoring 

• a Christmas hamper for $55 and/or
• a food voucher/gift for a child for $30

Bring Christmas to Life by purchasing your gift tags at The Desk on Sundays between 9.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m., at 446 Centre Road, Berwick.

As part of this event, we are looking for people who can help in setting up on Friday (1st December) during the day and packing up on Saturday (2nd December) at 2 p.m.  Let us know ASAP at [email protected] or 97021011 if you can assist.

9am Service

Sign-in desk opens at 8:50am – closes at 9:15am (usual place in the foyer)

Pick-up at 10:15am is ONLY via the external side glass sliding doors of the Family Life Centre via the side verandah (this is for Child Safety to avoid congestion in the foyer between services).

NB: Access to the Family Life Centre via the foyer will be restricted from 9:15 – 10:50am

NB: Please be prompt in picking up your children straight after the conclusion of the 9am service to allow time for Kids Ministry Team to prepare for the next service.

11am Service

Sign-in desk opens at 10:50am – closes at 11:15am (usual place in the foyer)

Pick-up at 12:15pm is ONLY via the external side glass sliding doors of the Family Life Centre via the side verandah.

NB: Access to the Family Life Centre via the foyer doors will be restricted from 11:15 – 12:30pm

NB: Please be prompt in picking up your children straight after the conclusion of the 11am service.

Many thanks for your cooperation during this trial service period. We welcome any feedback you can provide based on your experience from these days that will help us improve and streamline our delivery.

Details:

• Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm
• Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806
• Bring: Please bring a plate for everyone to share

>>>SENIORS MINISTRY<<<

If you would like to participate, please fill in the Child Dedication Application Form on the BCOC website here. 

NB: The 12th of November will be the last Child Dedication Service for 2023.