Literally defined, we are told that under no circumstance , should a congregation be made up of a few active members. One pastors whom literally controls the governing life of a church, makes for all intents and purposes, the body of Christ into a non body . Like wise, parishioners who fail to discern, and fulfill their ministries, forcing pastors and ministers into positions of control, do just the same. What an incredible dependency we must have for each other. An independent spirit towards the Lord Jesus, or towards one other, will stunt our process of growth.
Every member is called to sharpen each other, through their callings and ministries.
The fewer the number of members serving and ministering within a local body, the fewer will be the giftings available to it. This particular congregation will be greatly hindered in its discernment of demonic infiltration. There will be a deficiency in the prophetic that administers guidance, exhortation, and encouragement, and the confirmation of God s will. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation , and comfort. A church without the revelation of Jesus through the apostolic witness of the risen Christ will build lopsided.