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Study 09 of 12

Session 9—Ministry Management

Supervising outreach programs with a focus on process, teamwork, and evaluation to ensure lasting impact.

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Managing a ministry is about more than just 'doing programming'; it's about creating an environment where discipleship can flourish. Effective management involves building project teams rather than relying on 'lone rangers,' which helps prevent burnout and fosters leadership development. Each project needs clear, measurable goals, a timeline, and a budget. The Personal Ministries Council is the engine of this management, doing the creative thinking and planning necessary to challenge every member to join Christ's mission. Evaluation is a critical but often overlooked step, helping you identify what is working and where improvements are needed. Remember that every project is a process, not a goal—this perspective prevents discouragement when a specific initiative doesn't yield the expected results. By staying focused on the ultimate goal of saving souls, you can adapt and refine your methods as the Holy Spirit leads.

Key points

  • Building teams prevents 'lone ranger' burnout and fosters new leadership.
  • Clear goals, timelines, and budgets are essential for every project.
  • The PM Council is responsible for creative thinking and planning outreach.
  • Periodic evaluation helps identify strengths and weaknesses in ministry.
  • Remember that every project is a process; the ultimate goal is saving souls.

Key texts

  • Exodus 18:17-23
  • Luke 14:28-30
  • 1 Corinthians 14:40

From the book

Session 9 · Quick Start Guide pp. 10, 12-14, 18 · Read the Quick Start Guide

  • “Working together in teams prevents burnout and loss of spiritual ground.” (book p. 13)
  • “Before each team is launched, it is important for the personal ministries leader to meet with the team leader to clarify that team’s goals, timeline, and available resources.” (book p. 13)
  • “Remember, every project is a process, not a goal. If you remember this, you will not feel defeated when a project fails. The goal is to save men and women for heaven.” (book p. 18)

Put it into practice

  • Review the current outreach programs and form 'project teams' for each to prevent lone-ranger ministry.
  • Schedule a quarterly evaluation meeting with all outreach team leaders to discuss what is and isn't working.
  • Draft a specific ministry description (contract) for new volunteers that clearly states the time commitment.
  1. Comprehension

    1. Why is a 'lone ranger' style of ministry ineffective?

  2. Comprehension

    2. What should be clarified with a team leader before a project is launched?

  3. Scripture

    3. What is the purpose of periodic evaluation of a ministry?

  4. Doctrinal Clarity

    4. What does it mean that 'every project is a process, not a goal'?

  5. Comprehension

    5. How can 'leadership development' be incorporated into team outreach?

  6. Scripture

    6. How did Jethro's advice to Moses in Exodus 18 relate to ministry management?

  7. Contrast

    7. What is the benefit of charging a modest registration fee for some materials?

  8. Application

    8. Which of your current projects needs a clearer 'measurable goal'?