Is the organic church biblical? What is organic church?

TL;DR:

The early church was composed of a small group of believers who supported each other, which is very similar to organic churches today. As long as an organic church is following the Bible's teachings, it is a biblical church.

what does the bible say?

An organic church is a simple, relational, and Spirit-led gathering of believers that focuses on discipleship and community rather than formal structures or programs. Those who form organic churches often model their church after the early church described in Acts 2, in which seemingly small groups of believers invested in each other's lives and formed close bonds as they pursued the things of the Lord. Organic churches are also often planted by those who seek a more simplistic approach to church than what the typical American church offers. Many who create organic churches look to Ephesians 4:11–13 as their guide for the framework of their church. Although some critics believe that organic churches stifle evangelism or are against growth, history has proven that when small groups of believers meet despite the threat of persecution, they actually grow in numbers (Matthew 16:18; Acts 8:1-4, 9:31). As long as organic churches hold themselves to the standards, leadership and management that the Bible teaches, it is a biblical church.

from the old testament

This topic is specifically addressed in the New Testament.

from the new testament

Many believers, disillusioned with large, organized churches, are attracted to small, organic churches. However, some say such simple church models stymie growth and eliminate evangelistic efforts. Church history does not seem to support that allegation, though. Churches grow, even when forced underground and to very basic Christian activities. That makes sense: God gives the growth; human beings are just the workers (1 Corinthians 3:7).
The enemy will not succeed in diminishing a Bible-believing church. Jesus said, "… I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" (Matthew 16:18).
Christians who endeavor to build an organic church base their philosophy on Acts 2 with individuals or families in small groups helping each other with spiritual growth, Bible study, ministry work, and comfort.
Most organic-type churches hold Ephesians 4:11–13 as one cornerstone of their model: "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ." If an organic church aligns with God’s Word, God will bless it.

implications for today

Organic, or simple, church aims to pare Christian fellowship down to the most basic or natural activities. This is in response to some modern church models that institute a wide variety of programs, build extensive buildings, hire professional staff, and work on a business-like model dependent on large budgets. By contrast, a biblical, organic church truly sees itself as a church defined by the people involved and the gifts bestowed on them by God, rather than a building or group of buildings where people meet. The organic church doesn't rely on seminaries, traditions, ecclesiastical documents, church creeds, hymn books, or worship bands. Each organic church member contributes through teaching, shepherding, evangelizing, and other roles and gifts to grow the maturity and members of the church.

While “organic” is used to describe valid fellowships, some “organic” churches are actually cults or fringe groups. Christians need to investigate thoroughly and pray for wisdom (James 1:5).But this applies to any church a believer attends. We should look closely at any Christian group or church to see if they teach the Scriptures, hold to orthodox Christianity, and follow the Jesus of the New Testament.

understand

An organic church is a simplified church model similar to what Acts 2 describes.
Organic churches are a reaction against the large, business-like model of modern churches.
We must evaluate all church’s doctrine and practices using God’s Word.

reflect

How do you personally connect and grow spiritually in smaller, relational church settings versus larger, program-driven churches?
What qualities do you look for in a church to ensure it aligns with God’s Word?
How does being part of a church challenge or strengthen your personal faith?

engage

What are some advantages and possible disadvantages to worshiping at an organic church?
How can believers ensure that small, relational church gatherings remain faithful to biblical teaching?
In what ways can members of any church, large or small, cultivate the intimacy and accountability seen in organic church models?