Training Men at Bridge Church, Perry, Ohio, to Spiritually Lead Cross-Generational Small Groups

Abstract

Darin Ray Avery, D.Min.

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2014

Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Donald S. Whitney

This project sought to equip laymen at Bridge Church, Perry, Ohio, to give effective spiritual leadership to cross-generational small groups. Chapter 1 gives the purpose, goals, ministry context, project rationale, definitions, limitations and delimitations, and a description of the research methodology. Chapter 2 provides a biblical and theological basis for developing core character traits and skills of spiritual leaders. Chapter 3 examines historical and contemporary theoretical approaches to the intentional training of spiritual leaders, gleaning key principles for improving leader knowledge, attitude, and skill. Chapter 4 describes the execution of the project including training and resources provided to leaders, research instruments for measuring success, and a description of the activities undertaken during the fifteen-week project period. Chapter 5 offers an evaluation of the project's purpose, goals, strengths and weaknesses, and what things the author would do differently. The chapter closes with the author's personal and theological reflections on the project.