7 Marks of Church Vitality

“馬太25”教會是美國長老會（PCUSA）發起的一項面向社會改革的大使命運動。它的第一個目標是：藉著挑戰會友加深信心根基，積極歡喜地參與社區和世界上的公益事業，來建造自己教會的活力。如何衡量教會活力呢？

Here are the seven marks to help you determine your church's current level of vitality:

1. A commitment to forming disciples over every member’s lifetime. This leads first to personal transformation, as people put on the heart of Christ, and then to social transformation, as people joyfully go forth into the community and tackle the issues facing today’s culture.
2. Embracing the call to evangelism. We show forth the love of Christ by our actions and our lives even more than by our words. Our relationships are genuine and caring. People know we are Christians by our love. -- Doers/actions are more important than preaching.
3. An outward focus. Our church is not a place to escape from the world, but rather our gateway to our community where we may be the hands, feet, heart and mouth of Jesus Christ for people who are suffering or marginalized.
4. Empowering every member to discover their individual calling and the gifts God has given them so they can go forth and serve.
5. Spirit-inspired worship that challenges, teaches, transforms, convicts and energizes us so when we are sent out, we have experienced the wonder of God and are changed for the better from when we arrived. –- what is your pastors’ goals?
6. relationships modeled on God’s love. We open our doors and hearts to all people, and we build relationships modeled on God’s love, which leads to genuine reconciliation and peace. –- Learn to invite, welcome, connect.
7. Congregations with healthy systems. Our mission focuses are clear. There is fiscal responsibility and accountability. We have thoughtful decision-making structures. Our leaders and staff enjoy a sustainable balance of work/rest time. –- More than doing personal charities.