Velcroed for Growth: A Conversation

by Larry Osborne

Senior Pastor
North Coast Church, Vista, CA

North Coast started as a tiny little church. All of the adults together could have fit into one home. Sure, we’re bigger today but honestly, the bigger you get the harder it is to really minister to everyone. No, Jesus never sent a large crowd away. He ministered to them but he always told them that there’s something else to it. Here’s what I want you to understand. I’ve always tried to do that as well. From the very first days at North Coast Church when there was only a handful of people to today, when there are thousands we have preached the same message over and over that the church service message is not enough. We have to be involved in the lives of one another. It’s a both/and. Why? Because while a church service can provide education -- a catalyst to light a fire and get you motivated and excited, it can’t keep you on track the way people that you’re close to can. It can’t really provide support or accountability. Because once you’re over about 100 people you can’t really know the real person any more. All you know is the image. Even the smaller churches that think, “Oh we’re one tight family,” I say “bologna,” you’re not one tight family. You’re a bunch of close worker bees very connected in the center and everyone else is circling around wondering how they can connect. And when you ask, “how are you doing,” what’s the answer? “fine.” Sure, in reality all hell’s breaking loose but the answer is still “I’m fine” which really means, “its none of your business.” And the truth is, we’re not really asking, are we? Usually only weirdos and spiritual exhibitionist open up in a that kind of setting, right? But the truth is, we DO need each other. So what’s the right context for that to happen? More to come.