Training Leaders for Ministry at Crossroads Community Church in Carol Stream, Illinois

Abstract

ABSTRACT

LEARNING TO LEAD: A CLASS TEACHING MEMBERS TO

BE MINISTRY LEADERS AT CROSSROADS COMMUNITY

CHURCH, CAROL STREAM, ILLINOIS

Scott Andrew Nichols, DMin

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2020

Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Matthew D. Haste

The purpose of this project is to develop, teach, and evaluate a study of biblical church leadership as part of developing qualified ministry leaders at Crossroads Community Church in Carol Stream, Illinois. The curriculum was designed to develop ministry volunteers at the church to lead their ministries to thrive. The curriculum covers the purpose of the local church, the importance of character in those who lead, and the value of leading others well. Participants took a survey testing their knowledge and attitudes toward ministry leadership at the beginning and end of the class.

Chapter 1 introduces the ministry context, rationale, purpose, goals, research methodology, definitions, and delimitations of the project. Chapter 2 provides the biblical and theological basis for ministry training. Three Scripture passages are examined in making this case: Exodus 18:13-27; Acts 20:17-35; and 1 Timothy 3:1-13. Chapter 3 addresses the historical and practical issues related to training leaders within the local church setting. Chapter 4 includes details of the development, implementation, and a short evaluation of the project curriculum. Chapter 5 concludes the project with a more detailed evaluation, suggestions for further development, and reflections.