Into Thy Word -
How to Determine the Needs of the Church
This is where you do an honest assessment of what is needed in your church, whether it is spiritual growth, programs, facility improvements, leadership training, discipleship, or teaching….
1. What is the principle purpose and reason for your church to exist?
2. What are the needs in the church? Try to list 20. Include such things as discipleship training, fourth grade Sunday School class, etc.
3. Now rate the importance of each of those needs, keeping in mind Biblical priorities over personal ones!
4. What are the demographics of your congregation, such as age, education, social and cultural makeup, etc.?
5. Now take a careful look at the various ministries of your church, even if they are not yet started. Ask what the needs are for each one. You can use our list below or simplify it into four categories:
1. Worship Services, including teaching and prayer
2. Fellowship and Pastoral Care
3. Discipleship and Sunday School classes
4. Evangelism and Missions.
Here is a list of most of the main ministries. Add your needs as God directs.
- Prayer
- Doctrine
- Worship
- Teaching
- Discipleship
- Bible studies
- Leadership training
- Fellowship
- Missions
- Community relationships
- Staff encouragement and development
- Outreach
- Youth Ministry
- Children’s ministries
- Singles
- Married couples
- Elderly ministry
- Sports
- Internet
- Administration
6. What programs are already in place? Which ones are needed? Which ones are strong? Which ones are weak?
7. What are the top five programs? Do not neglect the others if they are real and Biblical!
8. If these ideas were implemented, how would the church look, and how would it be benefited?
9. What would happen if these ideas were not implemented?
10. Brainstorm how you can meet the needs! Determine the type of programs that can meet those needs.
How much time was spent in prayer?
© 1986, 1988, 1998, completely revised 2002 Richard J. Krejcir Into Thy Word Ministries www.intothyword.com
