Healthy Numbers

As I write, the National Weather Service has downgraded a hurricane to a tropical storm as winds dropped from 100 to 50 m.p.h. For people in the storm, the difference in those numbers matters tremendously.

While they don’t tell the whole story, numbers help us understand the reality behind them. Doctors today measure much more than pulse rates and blood pressure. Church leaders should count more than the usual budgets and attendance.

Here are some overlooked measurements to benchmark the progress of your ministry from month to month, year to year.

Use these numbers to start strategic conversations with church leaders. Don’t kick yourself if you aren’t on target. In fact, don’t worry about the weaknesses at first. Instead, build on your strengths. Research shows that the best return on investment occurs when people get better at what they are already good at. Progress in these areas will give you the energy you need to tackle tougher goals in the future.

EVANGELISM

1. # of pre-Christians in worship services. Target: 15% of attendees
2. # of pre-Christians at outreach events. Target: 15% of attendees
3. # of annual outreach events. Target: 8
4. # of church members trained in sharing their faith. Target: 25%
5. # of first-time guests in worship. Target: 20%

CARE INFRASTRUCTURE

1. # of small groups. Target: 1 for every 12-15 adults in worship attendance
2. # of regular worship attenders who are a part of a small group. Target: 60-70%
3. # of small groups formed within the last two years. Target: 20% minimum

MINISTRY DEVELOPEMENT

1. # of leaders who are newcomers in the past 2 years. Target: 20%
2. # of intentional vision-casting efforts per year—through sermons, newsletters, classes, etc. Target: 20
3. # of hours each week pastors and staff members are engaged in intentional development of the leadership team—through classes, staff and committee meetings, lunch with program heads, etc. Target: 20% minimum
4. # of church members engaged in specific ministry efforts either in the church or community. Target: 50%
5. # of church members who have identified their spiritual gifts and ministry passions. Target: 60%

—Reggie McNeal is director of the leadership development team for South Carolina Baptist Convention 190 Stoneridge Dr. Columbia SC 29210

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