“I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:6). “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us” (2 Corinthians 4:7).

The ministry of church planting and growth has been committed to ordinary, frail human beings (clay pots). It is God's power that will accomplish the commitment of Christ who said, “I will build my church...” (Matthew 16:18). Our task is to rely upon the power of God as we adhere to the Bible message and Bible methods with view to Christ's test—”of what sort it is” (1 Corinthians 3:13). I believe we are to be held accountable for Bible methods as well as the Bible message.

The contents of this manual are intended as a practical guide to Biblical methods of church development. It reflects many years of Bible study and ministry experience as a pastor, instructor, church-planter, and consultant in church ministry, church facility, and church funding development.

Much of the information in this manual was first published, beginning in 1986, in THE CHURCH PLANTER newsletter—a project that grew out of my ministry. Selected articles have been updated for this manual. Additional materials have been included. Unless otherwise indicated, I have written the articles. Every pastor, church planter, and ministry student can benefit from this book of practical assistance for making your church work.

I am thankful for the contributions of several other people who have submitted requested articles reflecting their expertise. I am also thankful for Jonita Barram who edited much of the material, for Scott and Cynthia Sommerfeld who gave their summer of 1992 to prepare the first edition page layouts. And to Laurie Graham of Practical Graphics, Inc. who has provided her computer graphic design skills for the second edition. Thank you, Larry Green and Sarah Lindner, for your editing expertise applied to the 2001 revised edition.

Most of all, I am thankful for my wife, Helen, who allows me to travel extensively in this ministry, while being my best friend, encourager, and loving wife.

H. Joseph Miller
Church Development Consultant
Discovering Life Ministries