An army is not measured by its numbers, Sheer numbers do not indicate that an army is able to fight well, defend its people and accomplish its goals.

Likewise, a church is not measured merely by the amount of people who sit in the pews or the amount of programs available for the people.

The quality and effectiveness of the church is more measured by:

• The genuineness of its worship,
• The fervency of its prayers,
• The faithfulness and commitment of its people,
• The hunger and thirst for the things of God,
• The uncompromising teaching of the Word,
• The brokenness and purity of the body,
• The activity of sending into the harvest fields of our families, our city, and our world,
• The discipleship of the sheep and lambs,
• The passion for His name,
• The respect for His presence,
• The humility and servant-hearts of its leaders,
• The unity of the body,
• The living and growing presence of Christ Jesus.

Many have highly trained musicians, impressive media ministries, gifted communicators, extravagant facilities, and activities for every age group, but they lack many of the qualities above.

If I had to choose, I would choose the church under a tree with these qualities than a performance that stirs my emotions but does not rend my soul.