Date

12-19-2023

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Chair

Michael K. Eiras

Keywords

Biblical servanthood, church engagement, student ministry, high school students, mentorship, ministry leadership, faith community, church service

Disciplines

Christianity | Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Abstract

This thesis addresses the inadequate understanding of the biblical concept of servanthood among high school students (grades 9-12) within the congregation of Macland Baptist Church in Powder Springs, Georgia. As a result of this problem, students gradually distance themselves from their faith, discontinue church attendance, and cease participating in church service activities. The thesis of this paper is that exposing these high school students to various dimensions of biblical servanthood will significantly impact their understanding of this concept. The underlying assumption posits that a profound understanding of biblical servanthood, coupled with knowledge and service opportunities, will cultivate Christlike character in students, encouraging continued engagement with the local church and inspiring them to serve as exemplars of servanthood for future generations. The premise is that fostering a production-oriented mindset over consumption is vital to this process. When deliberate mentorship and resources are provided to participants, it is feasible to cultivate the qualities of ministry leadership among students and the adult congregation. This study offers insights into strategies for deepening students’ understanding of servanthood, bolstering their commitment to the church and their role as stewards of servanthood principles. As a result, the research addresses the challenge of retaining young adults in the church by offering a practical case study illustrating the transformative potential of biblical servanthood understanding within the church’s student ministry.

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