The Pillars of a Strong Congregation: Insights from Counterpoint
In a recent episode of Counterpoint, hosts Mike Hixon and BJ Clark explored the foundational elements that create a spiritually robust congregation. Their discussion emphasized biblical leadership, faithful preaching, and intentional discipleship as non-negotiable pillars for church strength. Below, we break down their insights, supported by scriptural examples and practical applications.
1. Biblical Leadership: The Role of Eldership
A congregation’s strength begins with spiritually qualified elders who prioritize feeding the flock through God’s word. Mike and BJ highlighted:
- Elders as Guardians of Doctrine: Paul’s charge to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:28) underscores their responsibility to protect the church from doctrinal error. Elders must be “apt to teach” (1 Timothy 3:2) and deeply rooted in Scripture to guide the congregation1.
- Accountability in Leadership: A congregation “cannot rise above its leadership,” as weak or passive elders risk leaving the church vulnerable to spiritual malnutrition. Leaders must model faithfulness and courage, even when addressing uncomfortable truths1.
- Learning from Old Testament Leadership: In Haggai 1, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah first addressed Zerubbabel (governor) and Joshua (high priest) to catalyze temple rebuilding. Leadership sets the tone for congregational action1.
2. Preaching: Confidence in God’s Word
The hosts criticized reliance on “gimmicks” to attract attendees, arguing that the preached word alone holds transformative power:
- Rejecting Denominational Tactics: Programs or entertainment-based strategies (e.g., inviting wrestlers to services) undermine confidence in the gospel. As Jesus said, “If I be lifted up, I will draw all men to myself” (John 12:32)1.
- Paul’s Model of Preaching: In Corinth, Paul resolved to preach “Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2). Effective preaching centers on Scripture, not personal opinions or trends1.
- Nutrition Over “Cotton Candy”: Withholding challenging truths (e.g., marriage/divorce, denominational error) starves congregations. Elders and preachers must serve the “full counsel of God” (Acts 20:27), even when unpopular1.
3. Teaching Fundamentals: Combating Biblical Illiteracy
A strong church prioritizes repetition of core teachings to ground members in truth:
- The Danger of Assumptions: Assuming congregants “already know” fundamentals leads to generational ignorance (Judges 2:10). Peter urged believers to be “put in remembrance” of truths they already knew (2 Peter 1:12)1.
- Practical Consequences: One preacher shared how a sermon on marriage led three families to repent. Without such teaching, they might have remained in unrepentant sin1.
- Deuteronomy’s Example: Moses repeatedly emphasized God’s laws to Israel, illustrating the need for consistent, foundational teaching (Deuteronomy 6:6-9)1.
4. Bible Classes: Avoiding “Shared Ignorance”
Mike and BJ critiqued shallow Bible classes that prioritize discussion over instruction:
- The Fluff Epidemic: Classes reduced to “Sesame Street coloring books” or open-ended social debates fail to equip members. Teachers must anchor discussions in Scripture, not personal opinions1.
- Elders’ Responsibility: Leaders must vet teachers and curricula to ensure classes deliver substantive content. As Gus Nichols said, “If you can’t quote it, at least read it”1.
Conclusion: A Call to Return to Scripture
A congregation’s strength lies not in innovation but in unwavering commitment to Scripture. Elders must lead boldly, preachers must trust God’s word, and teachers must prioritize discipleship over entertainment. As Mike concluded, “We lose our right to exist if we abandon biblical preaching.” For those seeking salvation, the New Testament’s blueprint remains unchanged: hear the gospel (Romans 10:17), believe, repent, confess Christ, and be baptized (Acts 2:38; Galatians 3:27)1.
By recentering on these pillars, churches can cultivate resilience against doctrinal drift and fulfill their mission as Christ’s body.