Exposing Megachurch Myths

1
Exposing Megachurch Myths

• What we think we know about Megachurches, but
  dont!

2
They are too big.

• 48 in 1999 survey said our congregation feels
  like a close knit family
• 80 of megas have organized program to meet
  member needs
• 93 of megas have small group, cell ministries
• Pastor/lay leader to attender ratio

3
They are cults of one mans personality . And
will die when leader dies

• Megachurches are not cults
• Many successful pastors to fill the pulpit
• Dozens of Megas have changed pastors
• Megachurch momentum
• Denominational placement

4
They are self-centered, only serving members
needs

• Megachurch Social Ministry Programs
• cash or vouchers given to families or individuals
  91
• programs for youth and teens 99
• counseling services or support groups 95
• hospitals nursing homes 80
• prison ministries 91
• thrift store or thrift store donations 78
• temporary or permanent housing/shelter 78
• senior citizen programs 84
• substance abuse 12 step programs 85

5
They succeed because they water down the gospel

• 88 of respondents name the Bible as the most
  important authority for their congregation's
  worship and teaching.
• Sermons during the worship service most often
  always focus on
• Gods love and care (44)
• Personal salvation (42)
• Personal spiritual growth (38)
• Practical advice for daily living (34)
• Serious Conservative Christian Beliefs

6
They are full of spectators, anonymous members

• There are many reasons for attending
• Some attenders are spectators
• Many attenders are very committed
• The challenge for the megachurch is to draw the
  spectators into a deeper relationship with God
  and the Church

7
Member/Attender Categories
8
There is no member accountability

• In a large Church accountability is a challenge
• Small group structured relationships
• Interest group activities
• Pastor-elder-deacon-caregiver
• Humans are creatures of habit
• Use of technology to connect members

9
They are bad for other churches in a community

• Within first few years small churches have a
  challenge to define who they will be in the
  shadow of megachurch
• After the mega is established, smaller churches
  can flourish
• Becomes a religious center of activity
• Gain the overflow, disillusioned and tired

10
They do not appeal to any generation except baby
boomers youth dont like them
Over seventy percent of Megas said their
teenagers were involved in the life of the church
to a very great or large extent.
11
The megachurch phenomenon is waning