This thought really appeals to me. It’s fantastic to see our church growing (and growing, and growing) and people are meeting Christ. But, the concept of house churches has always appealed to me. Maybe there’s something everyone else knows and I don’t (please share) – why aren’t house churches all the rage?
Alternatively, what do you think of Jeff Vanderstelt’s crazy(ly awesome) idea for small groups: How would you conduct this group if it was the core group for a church plant? Do that. And if it’s working – plant a church. (from this conference message: audio | video.)
Well they are the rage in many parts of the world. But somehow in Australia it hasn’t taken off or else is confined to the “theologically suspect.” But house church/church planting movements and similar concepts are very much on the agenda in many parts of the world and in lots of mission circles.
A good intro can be found at imb.org/CPM/default.htm