Date

4-7-2026

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Education in Christian Leadership (EdD)

Chair

Deidra Jackson

Keywords

Evangelism, Generations, Authenticity, Servant Leader

Disciplines

Christianity | Religion

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation-in-praxis was to assist ONE Church, Atl: (OCA) in creating a strategy (program) which would focus on church growth, spiritual growth, community involvement and reaching lost generations. The program developed drew upon the Authentic Leadership Theory (George, 2003), which speaks on the authenticity of the leader showing genuine love, empathy and concern for followers. The Transformational Leadership Theory was included, which motivates the leader to engage the followers positively (Burns, 1978). The program also addressed the servant leader as introduced by Greenleaf (1977), emphasizing putting others ahead of themselves and always looking to the welfare of others. The love the Father has for the Son is extended to believers, as noted in the prayer Jesus prayed to the Father to make believers one as they are one (King James Bible, 1769/2003, John 17:20-23). The passage underscores both the theological depth of Christian unity and its missional significance. Evangelism is a ministry mandated by Jesus when He commanded the disciples to go out and spread the Gospel (KJB, 1769/2003, Matthew 28:19-20); the program created focuses on building the Kingdom of God and further creating a unified body of Christ. The program created for OCA falls in line with a Doctorate of Education (EdD) in Christian Leadership with a cognate focus in Ministry Leadership. The program not only served as an educational tool for an evangelism ministry but also developed ministerial leaders within the body of Christ. In an ever-changing world, the church faces the challenge of remaining relevant and impactful; positive leadership and evangelism can make a difference.

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