A vexing question for smaller churches is that of growth. How does a small church witness to the local community in a way faithful to the Scriptures and that results in conversions that add to the church?
This question has perhaps led to an examination of some traditional methods. Is it enough to have sound preaching and teaching, and are these important elements enough to attract outsiders?1 Does it work to have special events (carol services, etc.) or door-to-door visitation or tract distribution? Where can the church find a 'niche' in which it can relate to and attract non-believers?
Strong and weak groups
One proposal has been that of the larger church with a multi-ministry approach. It has been argued that in such a diversified culture as the UK the church must think in terms of diversified ministries. One of the more interesting aspects of modern western culture is that of the change from the strong-group orientation of biblical times to the weak-group orientation of today. The greatest dishonour to members of strong-group societies is to bring disgrace upon the family, or clan, or religious group.2
