MIS 803: Church Planting and Development

Course Title: MIS 803: Church Planting and Development
Subtitle: Strategies for Establishing and Growing Faith Communities
Course Name & Level: Church Planting and Development, Doctoral Level
Number of Credit Hours: 3 Credit Hours
Keywords: Church Planting, Church Development, Faith Communities

Introduction:
This course explores advanced principles and practices in church planting and development, focusing on strategies for establishing and growing vibrant faith communities. Students will develop skills to effectively plant and nurture new churches, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement.

Course Description:
MIS 803 provides an in-depth study of church planting and development, equipping students with tools to lead and participate in church planting efforts. The course integrates biblical teachings with contemporary strategies to enhance the success and sustainability of new churches.

Course Purpose:
To equip students with advanced skills in church planting and development, promoting effective establishment and growth of faith communities.

Course Objectives:
To develop proficiency in designing, implementing, and sustaining church planting initiatives that foster spiritual growth and community engagement.

Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Church Planting: The process of establishing new churches in various communities (Acts 14:23).
• Church Development: The growth and maturation of a church in terms of size, spiritual depth, and community impact (Ephesians 4:11-13).
• Faith Communities: Groups of individuals who gather together for worship, fellowship, and ministry (Hebrews 10:25).
• Discipleship: The process of teaching and mentoring individuals to follow Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19-20).
• Community Engagement: Involvement and interaction with the broader community to meet needs and share the gospel (Acts 2:46-47).

Specific Topics with Descriptions:

1. Biblical Foundations for Church Planting:
   Exploring the scriptural basis for church planting and its importance in the mission of the church (Acts 14:23).
2. Developing a Church Planting Vision:
   Techniques for creating and articulating a clear and compelling vision for church planting (Habakkuk 2:2-3).
3. Strategic Planning for Church Planting:
   Approaches to developing and implementing strategic plans for successful church planting (Proverbs 16:3).
4. Building and Leading Church Planting Teams:
   Strategies for recruiting, training, and leading teams dedicated to church planting (Ephesians 4:11-13).
5. Engaging with the Community:
   Methods for building relationships and engaging with the community to support church planting efforts (Acts 2:46-47).
6. Sustainable Church Growth:
   Techniques for fostering sustainable growth and development in new churches (Colossians 2:6-7).
7. Discipleship and Spiritual Formation:
   Approaches to discipling new believers and fostering spiritual growth in the church (Matthew 28:19-20).
8. Financial Planning and Resource Management:
   Principles of financial stewardship and resource management for new churches (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).
9. Evaluating Church Planting Efforts:
   Methods for assessing the effectiveness of church planting initiatives and making improvements (Philippians 1:6).
10. Case Studies in Church Planting:
    Analyzing real-world examples of successful church planting efforts, applying learned principles (Acts 16:9-10).

Assessments with Descriptions:

1. Research Paper:
   A 15-20 page paper on a selected aspect of church planting, integrating scriptural references and scholarly research (Psalm 119:105).
2. Case Study Analysis:
   Analyzing a case study involving church planting, providing biblically-based solutions (James 1:5).
3. Church Planting Strategy Development:
   Creating a detailed plan for a church planting initiative, demonstrating the integration of theological principles and practical strategies (Acts 14:23).
4. Community Engagement Project:
   Designing a project that fosters community engagement and supports church planting efforts (Acts 2:46-47).
5. Exams and Quizzes:
   Assessing knowledge and understanding of course materials through periodic exams and quizzes (Proverbs 4:7).
6. Class Participation:
   Active engagement in class discussions, demonstrating comprehension and application of church planting principles (Hebrews 10:24-25).

Research References:

1. Stetzer, Ed, and Daniel Im. Planting Missional Churches: Your Guide to Starting Churches that Multiply. B&H Academic, 2016. eBook.
2. Malphurs, Aubrey. The Nuts and Bolts of Church Planting: A Guide for Starting Any Kind of Church. Baker Books, 2011. eBook.
3. Keller, Timothy J. Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City. Zondervan, 2012. eBook.
4. Payne, J. D. Discovering Church Planting: An Introduction to the Whats, Whys, and Hows of Global Church Planting. IVP Books, 2009. eBook.
5. Ott, Craig, and Gene Wilson. Global Church Planting: Biblical Principles and Best Practices for Multiplication. Baker Academic, 2011. eBook.

The course centers on King Jesus, His Kingdom, His Holy Spirit, His Royal Family, and His Great Commission as stated in Matthew 28:18-20.