News & Peace: Is the Assemblies of God Really Growing?

The short answer is yes. The Assemblies of God is experiencing a period of significant, multi-faceted growth. Recent reports show attendance has climbed by 6.2%, while conversions have surged by 10%. This momentum isn't just about statistics; it reflects a deep-seated spiritual hunger and a commitment to the Holy Spirit’s leading.

Beyond the Numbers: A Movement in Motion

When we look at the state of our fellowship in 2026, the data tells a story that is as much about people as it is about percentages. In his recent report, General Superintendent Doug Clay highlighted some remarkable shifts within the Assemblies of God (AG). From 2023 to 2024, the numbers moved in a direction that caught the attention of many:

• Adherence: Up 2.5%

• Spirit Baptisms: Up 3.9%

• Attendance: Up 6.2%

• Conversions: Up 10%

• New Church Charters: Up 33.6%

But what’s behind these figures? Is it just a post-pandemic rebound, or is it something deeper? For those of us in the 901 and watching from afar through Boundless Online Church, we believe it’s the latter. It is the result of a Church that refuses to compromise on its biblical foundations while leaning into the modern ways people seek connection.

1. The Power of Conversion

The most striking number in the report is the 10% increase in conversions. This means more people are making the life-altering decision to follow Jesus Christ. In a world that often feels divided and noisy, the simple, profound message of the Gospel, salvation through grace, is resonating more than ever.

Definition: Salvation Salvation is the deliverance from sin and its consequences, brought about by faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift of God’s grace, not something earned by works.

When we see a 10% jump in conversions, we are seeing 10% more families finding hope, 10% more individuals finding purpose, and 10% more lives being anchored in the truth of Scripture. As Jesus said in Matthew 28:19 (NIV), "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." This growth is a direct fulfillment of that Great Commission.

2. The Spirit-Empowered Difference

Another key metric is the 3.9% rise in Spirit baptisms. As a Pentecostal fellowship, we believe the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is not just an optional "extra" but a vital source of power for witnessing and service.

Definition: Baptism in the Holy Spirit An experience distinct from and subsequent to the experience of the new birth, providing the believer with power for life and service and the bestowment of the gifts for the work of the ministry.

Acts 1:8 (ESV) reminds us: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." The increase in Spirit baptisms indicates that believers are seeking the "fire" necessary to sustain the mission. It’s the engine driving the +33.6% increase in new church charters. People aren't just attending; they are being mobilized to start new communities of faith.

3. Memphis: Part of the Story

Here in Memphis, Tennessee, we feel this momentum firsthand. At First Assembly Memphis, we aren't just observers of national trends; we are participants. Whether you are in Cordova, Bartlett, or downtown, you can see the same hunger for community and truth.

Our Mission and Vision have always been rooted in serving the 901 area. We’ve seen families return to in-person worship with a new sense of urgency, and we’ve seen new faces finding their home in our pews. The 6.2% national increase in attendance is mirrored in the way our local community is showing up for one another.

We aren't just a building; we are a family. That’s why we prioritize connecting with people where they are, whether it’s at a local outreach event or a Sunday service.

4. Boundless: Reaching the "End of the Earth"

While the local church in Memphis is thriving, the growth story doesn't stop at the city limits. The digital frontier is the new "Samaria." Through Boundless Online Church, we are reaching people who may never step foot in a physical building in Tennessee.

The Assemblies of God’s growth is increasingly digital. By providing high-quality, Spirit-filled content online, we are making the Gospel accessible to the homebound, the deployed, and the spiritually curious around the globe. This global reach is a crucial part of why the adherence numbers continue to climb.

What Does This Mean for You?

Numbers are encouraging, but they aren't the end goal. The end goal is transformation. If the church is growing, it means the opportunity for you to find community and support is growing, too.

Practical Takeaways for Your Faith Journey:

1. Seek the Spirit: If the national trend shows a hunger for Spirit baptism, don't miss out. Ask God to empower you for your daily mission.

2. Join the Conversation: Be part of the conversion story. Share your faith with one person this week.

3. Find Your Place: Whether local or digital, don't walk alone. Growth happens best in community.

4. Invest in the Future: The 33.6% jump in new churches requires leaders and volunteers. Consider how you can serve locally or online.

A Growing Family

At the end of the day, the Assemblies of God is a family. We are diverse, multigenerational, and Spirit-led. When one part of the body grows, we all celebrate. We are proud to be part of a fellowship that remains anchored in the 16 Fundamental Truths while navigating the complexities of the 21st century with grace and truth.

Is the Assemblies of God really growing? Yes. But more importantly, the Kingdom of God is expanding, and there is a seat at the table for you.

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Want to go deeper?

If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person at First Assembly Memphis: 🌐 www.famemphis.org

If you're outside our area or unable to attend locally, join our global community at Boundless Online Church: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org

Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)