A winning combination

What is the difference between a house church that succeeds and one that fizzles out?

I have found that the difference is not a scholarly Bible study (although that is important). The difference is the outlook of the group.

The house churches that come together for the sole purpose of a Bible study generally do not last.

The house churches that come together to 'bring their gifts' to the table experience consistent growth.

The difference?
Vision and empowerment.

The vision is to be more than a small group Bible study. The vision is to become a mini-church. A mini-church expects ministry to flow from the house church setting. They see the big picture of house churches within the local church (Acts 2:46; 20:20).
Empowerment involves helping people use their gifts as they partner with the house church ministry. They come together to give of themselves.

When vision and empowerment are combined you will begin to see the scriptural instructions for worship unfold: "So here's what I want you to do. When you gather for worship, each one of you be prepared with something that will be useful for all: Sing a hymn, teach a lesson, tell a story, lead a prayer, provide an insight." 1 Corinthians 14:26 (MSG)

That is a winning combination!