Date of Award

Fall 2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

College

Barnett College of Ministry & Theology

Department

Department of Christian Ministries and Religion

Primary Advisor

Dr. Mark Morrow

Second Advisor

Dr. Lou Shirey

Third Advisor

Dr. Jeremy Sims

Abstract

This dissertation explores strategic planning for churches in the post-Christendom era, where the cultural influence of Christianity has significantly diminished. The study aims to create a resource to help church leaders develop and implement strategic plans focused on long-term church health and sustainability. The first objective is to define what strategic planning entails and emphasize its necessity for fulfilling God's mission. Drawing on the Old Testament case study of Nehemiah and a New Testament survey, the research emphasizes the importance of effective planning within a biblical context. The second focus of this research question is to identify what to plan as it relates to a healthy and sustainable church. The study identifies critical areas of need for sustainable church success, offering a comprehensive comparison of healthy and declining church characteristics with existing literature incorporated with interviews with consultants and pastors. Lastly, the research addresses how to plan by comparing business-focused and church-focused strategic planning models. By aligning these models with biblical principles, the study proposes a cohesive framework for church leaders to follow in their strategic planning efforts.

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