Digital Commons Network^™

The Development Of A Long-Range Church Growth Plan For Panwal Garden Church From 2000 To 2010: A Plan In Light Of Education Ministry, Seong Kyung Kim

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This thesis project analyzes the past and present of Panwal Garden Church in Seoul, Korea and its community. The strengths and weaknesses of the church were considered. Then, a ten-year plan for growth was developed based on twelve proven principles of church growth. The long-range plan included goals and strategies to accomplish them. Four areas were chosen to emphasize because of their importance: the operation committee, edification of young people, pastoral leadership, and small groups. It was the author's intention to contextualize and indigenize what has been Biblically and empirically proven right for church growth and to put that into …

Analytic Study Of Criteria To Maximize The Effectiveness And Quality Of Decision Making, Joseph E. Sanders

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A review of current literature indicates that decision making is an evolving area of study and one of considerable importance to managers, pastors and teachers, as well as to professors and students of leadership and management. Regretfully, the subject of decision making is usually seen as merely one of several activities that differentiates managers from other employees in an organization. However, decision making is a complex process that must be understood completely and made easier before it can be practiced effectively. Given its obvious and cogent aura of organizational significance, it is surprising to note that decision making has not …

A Study Of The Leadership To Improve The Discipleship Class In Sungkyul University, Kwang Sun Kim

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This thesis project examines the discipleship classes of Sungkyul University in Seoul, South Korea, which are disciple-making classes to convert unbelieving students to Christianity. Non-Christian students are not just a concern there, but to other Christian universities. Therefore, these universities may profit from a study of this approach. This thesis uses the four phases of disciple making presented by Bill Hull in Jesus Christ, Disciplemaker as a standard for comparison. A study, by means of a survey, was conducted of the leadership and the discipleship classes and the results were compared with Hull's phases. Finally, recommendations for improvement are given.

Linking Assessment, Strategic Planning, And Budget Planning, Barbara Boothe

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Abstract Accountability, effectiveness, and efficiency are three major concerns of the University’s stakeholders, accrediting agencies, and governmental agencies. These concerns have broadened the scope of the assessment process since the 1990’s. To adequately respond to these concerns, it is important for institutions of higher learning to link assessment processes with strategic planning and budget planning. A study was made to determine if it is a common practice in public or private institutions of higher learning to link a comprehensive ongoing assessment process with the development of on-going strategic and budget planning processes. A questionnaire distributed to 178 institutions determined that …

The Considerations Of Interpretation Through The Function Of Imagery In The Song Of Songs And Its Application To The Current Believing Community, Sanggeol Lyu

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The Song of Songs parallels with the synthetic method of literary criticism. This criticism places value on the text because it is literature for the believing community to maximize the celebration of delight and consummation of love within marriage and it deemphasizes the search for the hidden meaning beyond the text. Literary criticism demonstrates not only the function of the literary message but also the aesthetic effect, and is suitable and adaptable to explain and help determine the identity of today's young adults. The study focuses on the wisdom of others and how it is adapted for today. It also …

Strategies For Using Spiritual Gifts In Korean Church Growth, Nam Ju Park

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This writer believes that one of the key ingredients to building an effective growing Korean church is spiritual gifts. If every Korean Christian were involved according to his spiritual gifts, he would be used in ministering where he is most usable. This writer finds that growing churches cannot be dissociated from growing Christians, when spiritual gifts are well used. Therefore, when Christians have found their gifts, knows the significance of their gifts and properly exercise them, the Korean church will grow. The purpose of this dissertation is to introduce readers to the best use of spiritual gifts in the contemporary …

Factors For Successful Adolescent Ministry In The Local Church Today, Steve Vandegriff

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this project is to wade through a number of ideologies and practices that pose as successful in the venue of local church ministry and identify those factors that truly reflect success. This will be based upon surveying several prominent veteran youth workers. The identified factors will be a reflection of the larger picture of youth ministry. There will also be some prognoses as to where youth ministry is headed in the near future.

The Development Of Family Ministry For The Local Church, Daryl W. Pitts

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

All social and cultural indications demonstrate that the American society is in desperate need. Divorce rates and addictions have multiplied both within and without the church. The local church is uniquely positioned to offer hope and healing, from a biblical perspective to those who have been beaten, bruised, and left beside the freeway of the New World Order. The local church also has the ability to provide preventative services so its members can avoid these life hazards. Based on surveys and research, this project presents a strategy to implement a comprehensive professional pastoral Christian counseling service for the local church.

An Analysis Of The Impact Of Age On The Academic Performance Of Students In The Liberty University External Degree Program, Frank Lyle King

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this project is to explore whether the age of a Liberty University External Degree Program (EDP) student impacts the degree of student success, as measured by the earned grade point average (GPA). EDP student GPAs were compared with Liberty University resident students GPAs. The EDP students consistently performed better than the resident students in all age groups examined. Demographic variables such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, marital status, military status, and amount of credits transferred to Liberty University were found not to be statistically significant factors in the performance of EDP students compared to resident students.

Deagil Presbyterian Church Renovation: Another Opportunity At A Crisis, As A Traditional Church In Korea, Hyun Sik Park

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A review of current literature demonstrates that very little material exists concerning the renovation of traditional churches. The purpose of this project is to illuminate leaders of traditional churches in Korea regarding renovation. Based on the surveys and questionnaires sent to Daegil Presbyterian Church members, to the neighbors in the community, and to other church leaders in the synod, the project reviews the historical perspectives, the present conditions, and the future vision. There are two kinds of crises in Korea: one is the stagnation of church growth; and the other is an IMF economic crisis. This project was developed using …

A Strategy For Effectiveness In Preaching Old Testament Narrative Scripture, C. Timothy Clark

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Old Testament preaching appears to be on the decline. Very often when it is preached, it is done poorly. Since narratives comprise 40% of the Old Testament, a large portion of God's Word is being either neglected or abused by many modern preachers. The purpose of this project is to show how proven hermeneutical and homiletical skills may be combined to provide a strategy for effectively preaching Old Testament narratives. The project will present a series of sermons based on the Old Testament book of Ruth which will demonstrate the author's strategy as it is fleshed out in practical exposition.

A Descriptive Study Of Youth Ministry Models In Evangelical Churches, Douglas Hunter Randlett

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this thesis is to examine six accepted church ministry models that have evidenced themselves in the evangelical church within the last twenty years. The project will analyze and apply these models to youth ministry. Based upon surveys and follow up interviews administered to alumni of the Liberty University Youth Ministry program and youth leaders associated with the Center for Youth Ministry at Liberty, the project will be a descriptive study of these models in representative youth ministries. An in depth interview will be conducted with each youth ministry that best represents the dominant model. An observation report …

The Impact Of Prayer On The Ministries Of D.L. Moody, C.H. Spurgeon, And Billy Graham: A Descriptive Study, Rodney Baker

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This study describes the significance of prayer in the nineteenth century ministries of evangelist-revivalist D. L. Moody, pastor-evangelist C. H. Spurgeon, and the twentieth-century ministry of evangelist Billy Graham. Furthermore, a description of the three most successful evangelical ministries of the last two centuries will demonstrate the vital role of prayer in their effective Christian ministries.

After extensively researching the lives of D. L. Moody, C. H. Spurgeon, and Billy Graham, it is clear that prayer played a major role in their lives and, according to personal statements, was a key to their success. While various facets of their ministry …

A Strategy For Identifying The Necessary Elements Of A Worship Studies Program, Don Wesley Tuttle

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A review of current literature indicates that little has been written with respect to the development of a systematic program of study for those desiring to lead worship in the contemporary church. The purpose of this project is to identify the necessary elements of a worship studies program geared toward ministry in the contemporary church. Incorporating Biblical research, field studies, and surveys, the project reviews Biblical principles as well as personal perspectives on worship from individuals in the United States and other parts of the world. Based on this information, recommendations are made regarding principles of worship for the contemporary …

Justification For Master Of Arts In Religion With A Concentration In Leadership – Program And Curriculum Suggestions, Jack F. Deans

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A review of current literature reveals a critical need for Christian Leadership Development. The purpose of this project is to document, both Christian and secular literature, demonstrating that need. It also includes interviews with recognized Christian leaders in Leadership Development. The project examines the curriculum programs of other seminaries and theological schools in order to ascertain the contemporary teaching on the subject. The project surveys pastors throughout the United States to determine their opinions as to effective education and their suggestions of problem areas in which to focus curriculum. The conclusion shows an agreement with the stated thesis.

Single Parent Ministry In The Local Church, William A. Connors

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This project in ministry titled, "Single Parent Ministry in the Local Church," is the result of the author's concern for the unique issues faced by today's ever increasing single parent households. This relatively new phenomenon is discussed in light of the historical roots of singleness in general. It is then shown that this "new phenomenon" is really not new at all. Single Parenting is virtually as old as creation itself, going back to the first single parent described in the Bible, Hagar. Much instruction regarding the circumstances of the single parent is discussed. The paper then examines the various, specific …

A Practical Strategy For The 21st Century Church Growth Of Baptist Bible Fellowship Korea, Taek Soo Kim

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this thesis project is to understand what the biblical principles for Church Growth are and, to evaluate the problems hindering Church Growth within the Baptist Bible Fellowship Korea. Based on surveys sent to the BBF pastors in Korea, the project analyzes and evaluates the actual figures of church ministry, strategy, pastoral leadership, and common hindrances of Church Growth. Ten practical strategies for 21st Century Church Growth of BBF in Korea are proposed. These ten strategies are effective because they draw from the biblical principles, the growing churches, the studies of Church Growth, and church growth experts.

Developing An Effective Ministry With Mid Life Single Adults In A Mega Church, Charles Richard Hughes

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A review of current literature demonstrates that very little material is available to assist local churches with developing a targeted ministry with mid life single adults. The purpose of this project was to answer the basic research question of how an effective ministry with mid life single adults was developed in a mega church by answering six sub questions concerning demographic analysis, the need, a model, the membership, leadership and administration, forming a chain of variables for effective ministry. Based on an extensive questionnaire of the membership in 1991 and 1994 the project draws conclusions in this historical perspective case …

Seminary Student Spiritual Formation: Recommendations Based On A Review Of Scripture And A Survey Of Evangelical Seminaries, William E. Wegert

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Concern for the spiritual formation in ministerial training has grown in recent years, and reasons for this are discussed. The history of spiritual formation in pastoral training as well as relevant Scriptures are reviewed. Particular attention is given to Christ's earthly ministry as well as key biblical terms related to spiritual formation. Certain expectations based on the weight of Scripture are determined. Results of a spiritual formation survey sent to thirty-five evangelical seminaries and a self-study of the writer's own seminary are analyzed. This project makes recommendations for enhancing seminary spiritual formation efforts.

A Strategy For Understanding And Ministering To Troubled Vietnamese Families In The United States, Minh Van Lam

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Very little literature regarding troubled families is available for the Vietnamese Christians in the United States to use. This project is written to review the biblical principles, the cross-cultural perspectives, and the practical methods to contributing to the Vietnamese pastors' work for reducing family troubles in this country. It presents a brief background of Vietnam geography and history with the reasons for the Vietnamese presence in the United States. It reviews the causes, diagnoses, remedies, and ways of preventing the troubles, based on questionnaires, the writer's experience in his fifteen year pastorate in Vietnamese Baptist churches and personal studies and …

A Strategy For Church Planting In The Central Region Of The Fellowship Of Evangelical Baptist Churches In Canada, Douglas Brent Powell

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Church planting is essential for the evangelization of Canada. The purpose of this project is to develop a strategy for church planting within the central region of The Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches in Canada (FEB CENTRAL).

This project examines the biblical nature of the church and church planting, highlights salient features of contemporary church planting, outlines a history of Baptist church planting in FEB CENTRAL, reviews two survey/questionnaires given to FEB CENTRAL church planters and administrators, and develops a strategy for church planting in the FEB CENTRAL region of The Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches in Canada.

A Strategy For Ministry To Widows In The Local Church, Richard Watson Sadler

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

In examining current literature, very little research has been done in the area of caring for widows in the local church. The biblical mandate, present social conditions, and the results from questionnaires sent to pastors and widows of Southern Baptist Churches of West Virginia validate the need to assist the church in developing and implementing a strategy in ministering to widows. Deacons, the servant-leaders, are the responsible agents for ministry to widows and the catalyst in getting others involved. This project is an instrument to awaken and equip God's people for the tremendous ministry privilege in serving widows.

Bringing Avalon Hills Baptist Church Through The Two Hundred Barrier, David D. Reike

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this dissertation is to identify as specifically as possible the elements which consistently contribute to the growth of the small church through the two hundred barrier, and then to incorporate these elements into a dependable strategy for such growth. The work includes a thorough review of relevant church growth literature, a review of Fuller Institute's "How to Break The Two Hundred Barrier Seminar," and it includes the results of a survey of fifty pastors who have led their congregations to regular worship attendances of over two hundred in recent years.

A Biblical Defense For The Financing Of Church Land And Building, Steven Douglas Suders

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A sampling of pastors, who are Liberty graduates, reveals a need for scriptural education concerning the financing of church land and buildings. The purpose of this dissertation is to illuminate the minister regarding the permissibility of taking out a loan to aid in acquiring property and facilities so that their ministries may grow. The project describes the contemporary philosophy of Larry Burkett who is opposed to churches obtaining loans. The thesis then refutes this erroneous claim and finally, provides information that may assist in the process of obtaining a church loan for the congregation that chooses to exercise this liberty.

An Analysis And Prospect Of Korean Church Growth Based On Functions Of The Church, Timothy Hyun Seo Choi

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

A review of the functions of the church and growth of Korean churches illustrates that God has blessed Korean churches. The purpose of this thesis is to understand the biblical functions of the church and the relationship between these functions and church growth. This project explains the historical background of the Korean church for church growth and makes suggestions to prepare the Korean church for the 21st century. This thesis is based on conclusions drawn from an extensive published research on church growth and is illustrated by a scientific survey given to thirty-five Korean pastors.

The Institution Of An Equipping Ministry Utilizing Spiritual Gifts To Overcome The Pastor/Laity Dichotomy, Mark Alan Harris

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this project is to research and develop an equipping ministry based on the doctrine of the priesthood of the believer emphasizing spiritual gifts. A 27-item Lay Ministry Survey was completed by 99 men and women at four North Carolina churches. Findings indicate that 43 percent of the respondents believe ministry should be performed by professional pastors. Research reveals that the professional pastor and laity have received a call to serve God by spiritual gifts. The church's responsibility is to affirm the call of believers to serve God through their spiritual gifts.

Spiritual Life Of Bible College Students, A. Eugene Andrews, Jr.

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Bible colleges seek to provide a Biblical base for their students, as well as opportunities for these students to grow in their personal relationship with Christ. This project examines how well Bible college students are progressing in the practice of spiritual disciplines. Also, based on questionnaires to Deans of Students, insights concerning the spiritual maturity of students entering Bible colleges over the past ten years are provided. The project then suggests ways of providing a stronger spiritual emphasis for students by use of student suggestions, an outline of a spiritual formations class, and resources for use on the Bible college …

Ministry To Families Of Handicapped Children, John Nickerson

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

Public attention has been drawn to the presence and needs of handicapped members of society. Little attention, however, has been given by the institutions of society, beginning with organized religion, to the families of the handicapped, the caregivers, and their special needs. This project is directed to the clergy and consists of two parts. The first is a seminar for clergy, to inform and sensitize them to said families. The second is a model forum with which the clergy will be equipped, in turn, to inform, sensitize, and prompt congregational members toward appropriate outreach in this specialized ministry.

Developing A Pastoral Leadership Guide In Light Of The Biblical Teachings And The Contemporary Management Concepts, Jonathan C. Liu

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

No abstract provided.

The Development And Implementation Of An Intercessory Prayer Ministry In The Local Church, Robert Houston Jackson, Jr.

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

There are a limited number of Southern Baptist Churches in North Carolina that have an established intercessory prayer ministry. Consequently, there is diminished spiritual power and ministry effectiveness. Prayer releases the power of God to work in the lives of individuals, churches, and nations. It is therefore essential that churches become houses of prayer.

The purpose of this thesis project is to develop a plan that will impress upon the local church the necessity of establishing an intercessory ministry. Furthermore it will serve as a resource for the development of an intercessory prayer ministry.