Develop a Discipleship System
Myths and Facts about Assessments in the Church Planting Context
By Marcelo Gomes
In the church planting context, assessments may raise concerns and doubts. As people called to make disciples, we want to assess our performance and how we can improve our mission of making disciples for Jesus Christ. However, some worry that assessments could be used to evaluate matters that only God can judge. Moreover, certain myths surround assessments, making it difficult for people to rely on them. In this article, we will debunk some of the myths about assessments in the church context and provide some facts to help us embrace assessments as a valuable tool for ministry.
Myth 1: Assessments are superficial and artificial.
Fact: Assessments are designed to provide a comprehensive picture of performance, skills, and potential. They give valuable insights into strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Assessments are based on solid research and experts’ experience, and they are ministerially developed. Therefore, they are tools to help and improve.
Myth 2: Assessments are used to create impediments to those called to plant a church.
Fact: Assessments are not meant to hold anyone back who is called to church-planting ministry. Instead, they are tools for constructive feedback and personal development. Assessments provide an opportunity for planters to reflect on their goals, vision, and work. They help planters improve their ministry and better serve the community. In a church context, assessments can help identify areas where people need to grow as spiritual leaders and improve ministry skills.
Assessments are not meant to hold anyone back who is called to church-planting ministry. Instead, they are tools for constructive feedback and personal development.
Myth 3: Assessments disregard the work of the Holy Spirit.
Fact: Assessments do not replace the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Instead, they complement it by providing us with a clearer understanding of ourselves, our gifts, and our purpose. Assessments can help us discern God's calling and find ways to align our strengths and talents with God’s plan for our lives.
Myth 4: Assessments are not culturally sensitive.
Fact: Assessments can be adapted to diverse cultures and contexts. Church planting assessment providers understand the importance of diversity and inclusivity and strive to develop culturally sensitive and appropriate assessments. Assessments can be tailored to reflect the unique needs and challenges of the faith community.
Myth 5: Assessments are just another bureaucratic tool.
Fact: Assessments can be a powerful tool for personal and organizational growth. They can help improve communication, teamwork, and collaboration. Assessments can also provide leaders with valuable insights into their team's skills and potential, which can inform strategic decision-making and improve mission effectiveness.
If you want to discuss how assessments can help church planters and local church leaders in your conference, email [email protected].
Dr. Marcelo Gomes is the Director of Training & Church Planting Systems with Path 1 at Discipleship Ministries.
Contact Us for Help
View staff by program area to ask for additional assistance.