In recent years some branch Churches of Christ, Scientist, have become concerned about the size of their memberships. As a result of a number of factors these branch churches are smaller than they once were. If such circumstances make it more difficult to meet expenses and to fill vital church offices, members may feel a sense of urgency about their situation.
It may seem irrelevant in the midst of these challenges to consider the By-Law "Numbering the People" in the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy. This rule reads: "Christian Scientists shall not report for publication the number of the members of The Mother Church, nor that of the branch churches. According to the Scripture they shall turn away from personality and numbering the people."
Man., Art. VIII, Sect. 28 . On the face of it, this seems merely a literal requirement for Christian Scientists not to submit membership statistics for publication. But this By-Law can be deeply relevant to churches meeting the challenge of a small membership.
Right motives always bless. And the call for Christian Scientists to turn away from numbering people is surely a call for right motives. It requires that we have always the high goal of spiritual growth and not work merely for improved material conditions in the form of a larger membership, a better impression on the community, or an increased number of donations. Although these may be legitimate outcomes of a right focus on spiritual growth, they should not be goals of the membership. Christ Jesus declared, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Matt. 6:33 .
