The relationship between pastoral influence tactics, follower outcome levels, and types of congregational change

Abstract

This dissertation examines the relationship between the influence tactics used by senior pastors in Southern Baptist churches, follower outcome levels, and types of congregational change. The intent of this study is to understand the relationships between these three variables as they relate to pastoral leadership.

In chapter 1, the researcher introduces the topic and exposes the lack of research in influence tactics in ministerial contexts. In addition, the researcher develops five research questions that drive the research process.

In chapter 2, the researcher gives an overview of the precedent literature concerning the theological and theoretical foundation of the topic. In addition, the researcher defines the categorical variables as they relate to the research objectives.

In chapter 3, the researcher outlines the methodological design that will be used to gather the data. Instrumentation, statistical analysis, and methodological design are detailed.

In chapter 4, the researcher reports on the findings of the research. The researcher uses a variety of tables and charts in order to present the data. In addition, the statistical analysis is given concerning the findings of the quantitative methods.

In chapter 5, the researcher summarizes the data and provides conclusions based upon the research findings. In addition, the researcher provides applications for pastoral leadership and gives suggestions for further research.

The researcher surveyed 408 Southern Baptist pastors who at the time of this study were currently serving as the senior pastor in churches associated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The selected pastors participated in an online questionnaire developed by the researcher.

Statistical analysis was performed on each of the select variables along with demographic information. The findings of this research contributed to the understanding of specific influence tactics of senior pastors, the affect of certain influence tactics on church members, and the relationship of these variables to types of congregational change.