By the Numbers (Megachurches and Emerging Megachurches)
Kent Fillinger and Ben Simms summarize 2007 megachurch attendance, growth trends, Easter attendance, baptisms, state-by-state counts, and leading churches by growth and baptism ratio.
Articles for tag: Megachurches
April 13, 2008
Multisite Momentum
Multisite ministry is rising among megachurches and emerging megachurches, with growth data that looks promising but not automatic. This article explores what the numbers suggest—and why long-term commitment matters.
And the Award Goes to . . .
A quick “awards” roundup comparing emerging megachurches and megachurches across attendance growth, senior minister tenure, worship-service counts, multisite reach, baptisms per giving, missions participation, church planting, and per-person generosity.
April 13, 2008
Mega Myth Busters: A review of “Beyond Megachurch Myths”
Dick Alexander reviews Beyond Megachurch Myths, highlighting research that challenges common assumptions about megachurches and points church leaders of every size toward healthier, more effective ministry practices.
Ministry Innovations and Changes
Megachurch and emerging megachurch leaders share ministry examples tied to growth—from outreach and new worship venues to staffing, small-group focus, and strategic changes that helped their churches expand.
April 9, 2008
Interview with Kent Fillinger
Kent Fillinger explains how megachurch metrics can become meaningful for smaller congregations, why adaptability matters, and how leadership transitions and succession planning may shape the movement’s future.
April 9, 2008
About Megachurches, for Every Church
This annual megachurch issue celebrates growth and baptisms while noting recent declines, offering smaller churches practical insights and pointing readers to the 2007 Megachurch Report: Deluxe Edition.
March 5, 2008
Your Opinion About Our Unique Identity
CHRISTIAN STANDARD invites readers to complete a survey about connection and identity within the Restoration Movement. The article highlights encouraging growth and influence, while raising concerns about drifting from the movement’s unique plea.
February 24, 2008
The Polysite Church
A ministry leader asks what to do for people who won’t step into a church service. Dave Ferguson explores why multisite isn’t enough for many and calls churches to become “polysite” in everyday places.
February 13, 2008
This Is What’s “Actually Happening”
Mark A. Taylor reflects on why the North American Christian Convention remains worth engaging, pointing to Cam Huxford’s perspective on growth, mission, change, and the shared essentials celebrated at the NACC.
February 10, 2008
Compelled to Pray
Hundreds of unseen servants supported the National Missionary Convention through persistent prayer. From months of preparation to backstage intercession during main sessions, their quiet faithfulness encouraged workers and strengthened mission commitments.
January 30, 2008
Ministers: The Happiest Workers in America
A Time survey said clergy are America’s happiest workers. Mark A. Taylor reflects on ministry’s pressures and why lasting joy often comes from serving others and offering hope in Jesus’ name.
January 27, 2008
Size Matters: The Changing Role of Elder
As Oaklandon Christian Church grew, its elders had to shift from managing day-to-day decisions to policy, vision, and oversight. Doug Priest explains how church size reshapes leadership and why spiritual responsibility must remain central.
January 23, 2008
Just to Remind You
CHRISTIAN STANDARD shares ways to sign up for the free weekly e-newsletter, submit church news items, and send letters to the editor. Churches averaging 1,000+ in 2007 weekend worship attendance are invited to submit megachurch issue data.
October 28, 2007
Let’s Celebrate
Bob Russell highlights reasons the Restoration Movement should celebrate, pointing to renewed evangelistic focus, church growth, and effective church planting across the country—even in places once considered hard soil.
Emerging Ministry for Emerging Churches
As larger churches add specialized ministry roles, many are hiring proven volunteers from within their own congregations. Paul Boatman explores the benefits, risks, and the need for strong partnerships between local churches and theological education.
April 15, 2007
MEGACHURCHES: Why Count?
Kent Fillinger urges church leaders to move past “dysfunctional politeness” by setting clear expectations, monitoring results, and evaluating ministry programs so churches can adjust and bear fruit.
April 15, 2007
MEGACHURCHES: By the Numbers
A report on 117 megachurches and emerging megachurches among Christian churches/churches of Christ explores growth patterns, multisite momentum, facility expansion outcomes, and demographic shifts shaping what comes next for large congregations.
April 15, 2007
MEGACHURCHES: The 2006 List
CHRISTIAN STANDARD’s annual megachurch list highlights churches by weekly attendance. This entry defines megachurch and emerging megachurch thresholds and links to the 2006 megachurches chart.
April 15, 2007
MEGACHURCHES: Crunching the Numbers
Download a PDF featuring statistical breakdowns of megachurches and emerging megachurches, including fastest-growing churches, most baptisms, services offered, and “greatest Easter multiple.”
