Measuring the Usefulness of the Discipleship Pathway Assessment in the Local Church

Abstract

This ministry project was designed to measure the usefulness of Lifeway’s Discipleship Pathway Assessment in local churches. The chapters show why there is a need for an assessment tool that measures spiritual growth while also compiling the research gathered to measure the usefulness of the DPA. Chapter 1 explains the context, rationale, purpose, goals, and methodology of the project. Chapter 2 focuses on the biblical calling of a church to grow their people spiritually by examining Hebrews 5:11-6:3, 1 Peter 2:1-3, 2 Corinthians 3:18, and Ephesians 4:11-16. Chapter 3 provides a brief history of how the DPA came to be along with theoretical support from other resources affirming the 8 Biblical Signposts as useful. Chapter 4 details the planning, preparation, and implementation of the ministry project while also analyzing the results of the project. Chapter 5 presents an assessment of the purpose, goals, strengths, and weaknesses of the project, and concludes with suggested changes, and theological and personal reflections.