Illustrating Christ’s command to be fishers of men, the IBOC (Inspiring Body of Christ) Church in Dallas, TX, operates the world’s largest privately-owned aquarium.

The 75,000-gallon aquarium contains more than 80 species of salt-water fish. Two full-time marine biologists and six certified dietrists care for the tank, with at least one person being on site at all times. It’s a good thing too; the 300+ fish in the tank are worth over $100,000.

The tank serves as the centerpiece of the church’s new $40 million building. The aquarium alone cost $4.7 million to design, build, and stock.

Generally speaking, I’m all for reminding people to evangelize. However, bigger isn’t always better when it comes to reminders. American churches tend to spend incredible amounts on displays and events to showcase evangelism rather than getting it done. How many people could this church have reached with the $4.7 million spent on a fish tank? What could they be doing every year with what must be a staggering maintenance budget?

There is nothing wrong with showcasing evangelism with displays, missions conferences, survey trips, and even aquariums. However, our ultimate goal is not that people would see but that they would do. Christians are called to be fishers of men not aquarium curators.