What does a healthy church look like?

Abstract

Something significant is changing in local church life. We are entering a time of winnowing for congregations, in which a congregation’s core health will mean the difference between survival and death, and also whether it simply survives or thrives in the future. Definitions of “healthy churches” tend to be too general or too small and prescriptive, driving toward some particular theology, tradition, or structure. A more helpful working definition or description is required. This article identifies four general predictors of church health that cut across theological, societal, and denominational boundaries. These markers are simple and attainable for churches that desire to pursue a healthier congregational life. The four characteristics are: (i) clarity of mission and vision, (ii) transformational conflict, (iii) authentic community, and (iv) transparent communication. When a church agrees to make these their highest priorities, the resulting congregational culture begins to exhibit signs of stability, renewal, and hope. Upon the foundation of such practices, the possibilities of future innovation, creativity, life transformation, and community engagement begin to emerge.