Balance: A Tried and Tested Formula for Church Growth

Ira North knew about church growth. Although North died in 1984, his name is still synonymous with that of the Madison Church of christ. His vision helped Madison grow from 400 to more than 4,000 members. But growth was a result of North's application of biblical principles rather than a goal in itself.

North emphasized doctrinal commitment rather than mere pragmatics. His summary chapter opens with this statement: "God does not require that we be big, or wealthy, or powerful, or super smar...