A second issue is the assimilation of newcomers. Unless the process for the assimilation of new people is improved and expanded, a 50 percent increase in membership may produce only a 10 percent increase in worship attendance. As Schaller points out, a congregation must be ready to receive and assimilate new members before it can properly bring them in. Otherwise, new converts will simply become disillusioned and either drop out or move on to another church that is prepared to receive and spiritually nurture new converts. It means that owning a building should be way down the list of priorities for a congregation.
Effective disciples become effective disciplers.
And a congregation of effective disciplers is ready to receive and assimilate new converts. That's why your development of small groups, leadership training classes, Christian education classes and service goals, all bathed in private and corporate prayer, should be far higher priorities than a permanent building. Compelling, committed personal and corporate Bible study. Devoted, faithful personal and corporate prayer. Meaningful, Spirit-guided personal and corporate service inside and outside the church.