Perceived Strengths and Weaknesses of American Churches: A Quadrant Analysis of Church-Based Ministries

Abstract

The needs and expectations of both Christians and non-Christians concerning churches vary according to the cultural context. Similarly, a church’s ability to respond to these needs depends on its ability to fine-tune ministries so that they are appropriate to the cultural context. This study uncovers various elements of American church ministries (especially those that can be supported by technology) which church members consider important but which are poorly executed. A sample of 325 members of American churches indicated which ministries they considered most important and to what degree they believed that they were carried out well in their own church. A quadrant analysis indicated that welcoming visitors, keeping parents informed of what their children are learning, and keeping parents informed of issues that arise during church activities were aspects of ministry generally rated as very important but poorly executed.

Keywords: Church, Ministry, Evangelicalism, Outreach, Evangelism