The 4 Key Elements of Successful Churches
"The 21st Century leader doesn't lead by the authority of his position, but by an ability to clearly articulate a vision and core values of his organization." --Dr. Aubrey Malphurs, Faculty member, Dallas Theological Seminary, Dallas, Texas
A core value is a fundamental belief that is Biblical, unalterable, and passionately held which drives every aspect of ministry.
Example: We believe that lost people matter to God, and therefore ought to matter to the church.
Core Values Must Drive The Ministry
- They determine ministry distinctives.
- They dictate personal standards and ministry limits.
- They communicate what is important.
- They help to identify when it is time for change.
- They shape decision making.
- They enhance leader effectiveness in the eyes of their congregation.
- They shape the character of a ministry.
- They determine the measurement of success.
- They determine the ministry vision.
"ALL CORE VALUES SHOULD BE BASED ON SCRIPTURE"
A mission statement is a broad, brief, clear, Biblical statement of what the church or ministry is doing, or, why it exists as a church or ministry.
To identify the mission ask this question:
Why does it exist and what is its purpose?
Why is having a Mission important?
- It identifies the ministry's purpose and direction.
- It provides a measurement as to whether the ministry is on course.
- It focuses the various ministry functions.
- It provides a template for decision making.
- It facilitates the unity of the ministry.
- It shapes the strategy of the ministry - and
- It enhances efficiency and effectiveness of the ministry.
A vision is a snapshot of what the ministry will look like at some point in the future.
Example: Our church is the most effective spiritual care provider in our community. We consistently minister to 2,000 members in our Sunday services.
Requirements for an Effective Vision
The church must first know where it is presently (through survey/assessments).
The church must be able to identify what needs to change.
The church should be willing to put the key change elements into a simple vision statement.
The church should have a written plan that facilitates reaching the vision.
The vision must be measurable.
The Essentials of Creating a Vision
- Visioning begins with the Holy Spirit.
- Prayer and meditation confirm what is to be accomplished.
- The leaders must carefully analyze all existing opportunities.
- Think BIG!!!
- Develop Out-of-the-Box thinking.
- Then get others involved.
Strategy Definition
A strategy is the process that determines how you will accomplish your ministry mission. It sets the stage for both accomplishing the mission and reaching the vision.
Long-Range Plan Definition
The long range plan is a document which puts feet to the strategy.
The 10 Key Steps to Building a Long-Range Plan
- Identify critical performance areas of the ministry.
- Evaluate the current strengths and weaknesses of the ministry.
- Review the Core Values, Mission and Vision of the ministry.
- Develop a high-level 3-to-5 year plan and assign accountability.
- Identify critical resources which will be needed to accomplish the plan.
- Develop a detailed 90-day plan and again, assign accountability.
- Begin implementation as soon as the 90-day plan is completed.
- Review progress monthly and hold people responsible for actions.
- Update the 90-day plan anytime something changes in the plan.
- Be willing to change the plan, but only as God leads you.
