Date

10-16-2025

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Chair

Andrea Michelle Burson

Keywords

Identity, spiritual formation, relationship readiness, young adults, emotional healing, biblical counseling, discipleship

Disciplines

Christianity

Abstract

This thesis project, Preparing New Life Pentecostal Ministries Young Adults for God’s Design of Marriage Through Identity Development, addresses the growing crisis of identity, purpose, and relationship instability among young adults within NLPM and beyond. The purpose of this action-oriented research is to provide a theological and spiritually formative framework that prepares young adults for marriage by biblical principles. The project identifies key spiritual and emotional barriers, including unresolved wounds and distorted self-identity. Lack of discipleship and cultural confusion hinder spiritual maturity and readiness for God-ordained relationships. Grounded in Scripture and supported by human development theory and spiritual formation scholars, the study implemented a ten-session curriculum that integrated teachings, prayer, journaling, group discussions, and personal reflection. Data collection included pre- and post-surveys, journal entries, and group interactions to assess participant growth. The results revealed significant transformation in spiritual identity, emotional healing, and clarity of purpose, with international reach and participant testimonies of deliverance and renewal. This research contributes to the field by offering a reproducible model for ministries seeking to disciple young adults in preparing for marriages by God’s design and a Christ-centered family life. The implications extend beyond NLPM to churches, college ministries, and global discipleship efforts. The project affirms that marriage preparation rooted in Scripture and spiritual formation empowers individuals to live out God’s design in holiness, healing, and relational purpose.

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