Date of Award

Spring 2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Master of Divinity (MDiv)

College

College of Christian Ministries and Religion

Department

Department of Christian Ministries and Religion

Primary Advisor

Dr. Earl Creps

Second Advisor

Dr. Ken Draughon

Third Advisor

Dr. Jim P. Vigil

Abstract

The words of Jesus, spoken over 2,000 years ago and recorded in Matt 16:18, serve a prophetic purpose regarding the power and endurance of the Church. Addressing one of His closest disciples, the Messiah emphatically declared, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” This statement shows that the Church—built by mortal men and women in service to the Divine—is God’s chosen instrument to reach lost humanity. With that in mind, this dissertation seeks to answer a critical question: “What are the optimal strategies and best practices for church turnaround, as perceived by six district superintendents within the Assemblies of God?” Through interviews with these leaders, this research aims to identify key insights that contribute to church revitalization. Although signs of decline are evident across the nation, this study moves beyond the symptoms, focusing instead on the specific strategies that district superintendents have successfully implemented to foster renewal. Furthermore, this dissertation includes an in-depth theological study on church growth, a comprehensive literature review on church revitalization, in addition to the qualitative research study featuring interviews with six district superintendents. By synthesizing biblical principles, contemporary research, and real-world leadership experiences, this study highlights the strategies and best practices that foster church turnaround. Ultimately, every church experiencing stagnation or decline holds the potential for turnaround, a body existing as a thriving, revitalized community.

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