Thinking about Church DNA & Culture Download Completed Flowchart Download Blank Flowchart Download this Article Church DNA Arguably one of the most neglected aspects in the planning of many church plants, is consideration of the DNA that the planter transplants, and therefore the culture of the church that develops. To identify and shape our church culture with the aim of most effectively making disciples of Jesus, I have found it helpful to think about theological positions, beliefs, practices, ministry patterns, etc, as either 1st, 2nd, or 3rd order issues. This approach is helpful in planning church plants, where decisions need to be made about almost every aspect of church life, but also in established churches where the culture can include ministry patterns that are not directed by mission, but from some other motivation. These notes are to help you use the Church DNA & Culture Flowchart Worksheet. There is also…
Church DNA & Culture Flowchart Blank Worksheet How are decisions made in your church, or for your new church plant?What Bible translation will you use?How will the meeting space be arranged?What kind of coffee will be served?And music! Will you have any? How much? What type?Every church has DNA and a unique culture that shape the way decisions are made. Sometimes “We’ve always done it that way” trumps any other reason in determining the shape of our life together in church!This tool aims to help you understand your DNA and your culture, and to enable you to make mission-oriented decisions.This version of the flow chart has blank spaces for you to work through with your leaders, team, and members.There is also a completed version as a worked example available for you to download. Download PDF
Church DNA & Culture Flowchart How are decisions made in your church, or for your new church plant?What Bible translation will you use?How will the meeting space be arranged?What kind of coffee will be served?And music! Will you have any? How much? What type?Every church has DNA and a unique culture that shape the way decisions are made. Sometimes “We’ve always done it that way” trumps any other reason in determining the shape of our life together in church!This tool aims to help you understand your DNA and your culture, and to enable you to make mission-oriented decisions.This completed sheet is a worked example. The First, Second, and Third Order Issues may be different in your context. There is also a blank worksheet available for you to complete with your leaders, teams and members. Download PDF