Date
12-19-2023
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
Thomas Spotts
Keywords
apologetics, church-planter, preaching, theology, video curriculum
Disciplines
Religion
Recommended Citation
Dilley, Matthew, "Apologetic Knowledge: The Modern Church Planter" (2023). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 5077.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5077
Abstract
This project addresses a critical need within the ministry field, focusing on pastors affiliated with the church planting networks Excel Leadership Network and Transformation Ministries. The context is shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on church planting, with a shift to online services and emerging challenges in ministry. The problem is the significant lack of knowledge of apologetics among church planters, hindering their ability to effectively articulate and defend the Christian faith in today's postmodern world, particularly when engaging with non-believers. This DMIN action research project aims to create a concise video curriculum that equips pastors with fundamental apologetics knowledge. Given the demanding schedules of church planters, the curriculum's goal is to be time-efficient while providing the foundational principles of apologetics. The video format is designed to pique the interest of planters and empower them to handle apologetic discussions effectively. The ultimate aim is to enhance the pastors' abilities to incorporate apologetics into their preaching, address complex questions from their congregation, and engage with a more questioning society. Research methods involve assessing pastors' existing apologetics knowledge and their needs in this area and developing and implementing the video curriculum. By providing a concise and accessible resource, this project seeks to influence pastors within church planting networks, enabling them to become more well-rounded in their ministry. It aims to equip them with tools to strengthen their theology base, enhance their teaching, and engage effectively in apologetic discussions, ultimately serving their congregations and those seeking answers in a secular world.