How important are report cards? Depends who you ask. Ask a child in College, High School or elementary school (I have at least one in each) and depending on how they feel they're doing the answer may be different. But in reality no matter what it is that we are doing, being able to evaluate is critical. The church is no different. In the last blog, part 1 of this DNA discussion we talked about the need to move our churches toward a new paradigm or mindset. I find that many churches are using a report card that speaks more to organization and programs and less to a healthy church DNA.
So then what should be the markers we look for to determine whether we are growing, fruitful and healthy? What characteristics should we be seeking to build into the mindset of our churches? Let me briefly outline 5 characteristics that I think are important and most critical, biblical.
So then what should be the markers we look for to determine whether we are growing, fruitful and healthy? What characteristics should we be seeking to build into the mindset of our churches? Let me briefly outline 5 characteristics that I think are important and most critical, biblical.
- Biblical Integrity. Having a clear knowledge of what the Bible says, being able to apply it to our context and then faithfully living it out. We must ask is our purpose, leadership and values truly Biblical.
- Covenant Community. Every member of the church must covenant (promise) to live out the true biblical meaning of Koinenea (fellowship) and then live up to it. This would include developing deepening relationships, encouraging one another and being accountable to each other.
- Love for Christ. We must have a personal love for Jesus that is expressed in our commitment to Him in vibrant worship, personal living and a public witness.
- Missional Living. We must live out His mission, continuing the ministry of Jesus as we are prompted and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
- Commitment to Maturity. We should have a personal commitment to growing to maturity, becoming more like Jesus Christ each day. This is more than knowledge of the Bible. It is an active prayer life, personally be equipped and developing our ministry skills, mentoring (discipling) others and a faithful involvement in ministry.
