Creating a Culture of Servant Evangelism at Memorial Baptist Church, Frankfort, Kentucky

Abstract

CREATING A CULTURE OF SERVANT EVANGELISM

AT MEMORIAL BAPTIST CHURCH

FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY

Michael Wayne Colston, D.Min.

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2013

Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Jeff K. Walters

This project is an exploration of the relationship between serving people and doing the work of evangelism in and through the ministry of Memorial Baptist Church, Frankfort, Kentucky. Though the title states that this effort embodies the goal of "creating a culture of servant evangelism," the true test of this culture will not be fully recognized until far more time than the length of this 15-week project has come and gone.

Chapter 1 introduces the ministry project, stating the purpose and goals set forth. A brief history of the host church is offered for the sake of contextualization. Definitions, limitations, and delimitations are provided for clarity, and the research methodology and instruments are included.

Chapter 2 offers an exploration of five biblical texts directly relevant to the venue of servant evangelism. The exploration and research provide adequate detail to give substance and support to the various aspects of this project. Two biblical characters represent the model of a servant leader: Jesus and Joshua. Both serve as honorable role models for the venue of servant evangelism.

Chapter 3 examines the theoretical and sociological aspects of servant evangelism. The goal for this chapter is to present servant leaders in the context of social involvement in order to create evangelistic opportunities. With that goal in mind, the endeavored outcome is to extend the kingdom of God through acts of kindness done in a spirit of humility.

Chapter 4 gives the details of the 15-week ministry project. The goal for this chapter is to present the project in such a way that any church can take this chapter and carry out the work of servant evangelism in their context.

Chapter 5 offers an evaluation of the purpose, goals, strengths and weaknesses of the ministry project, as well as theological and personal reflections. The chapter correlates the overall impact of the project on all who were involved.