The Mega-Church Phenomena

Key point in churches and ministry… shepherding. With megachurches, the shepherding is lost in the presentation. Megachurches want to be seen as "serious Christianity" but through an extraordinary religious expression. This “expression” results in a creation of nontraditional formats that are acceptable to today’s churchgoer who may be turned away by traditional religion. It is appealing to the masses at the cost (often) of scriptural roots and integrity. It is to attract seekers and the unchurched through current avenues with which they are familiar… big attractions, special effects and the message (which is often): you can have it now, at no cost. It is non-denominational and often with a vague doctrinal statement.

Today’s society (in the big cities) is certainly tailored for this methodology and probably thrives in the comfort of being with a multitude, where they can feel a part without stepping out. The Billy Graham Crusades of the 70’s (70,000+ stadiums filled to capacity) were evidence of the “Big Tent” effect.

I find it interesting, coming from a rural 50-80 member church community, that most of the megachurches, such as Willow Creek Community Church, employ a small community approach in a focused “group therapy” environment, returning (in a fashion) to the small community within the big state. It’s appeal is a user-friendly atmosphere without guilt. But I see a loss of true Christian community fellowship and connectivity (how can you know 20,000 members of a church?) and the resulting dilution of scriptural guidance from associate “pastors” (often laity who are sincere but suspect in qualifications).

Matthew 22:14 “For many are called, but few are chosen”. The danger I see in the megachurch phenomena is the lack of individual accountability.