Reading: Basic Church Planter Assessment by Ben Ingebretson

BASIC PERSONAL ASSESSMENT for CHURCH PLANTING  
Developing Your Own Growth Plan



Ben Ingebretson M.Div., M.A.
Assumptions in Assessment
Church planting is unique work that requires unique gifts.  
The #1 human factor in church planting success is the planting leader.  
Assessment of a planter is best done by a team of 2 seeking human and spiritual insight
Assessment is not “once and done”.  Time and experience can mature a candidate.

The number #1 human factor in church planting success is the leader!

Is the leader called to church planting?

 Understanding A.P.E.S.T.  Ephesians 4:11
So Christ gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and some teachers.   

The number #1 human factor in church planting success is the leader!

Is the planter spiritually, emotionally and physically prepared for the challenges of planting?
     
Planting is stressful and requires a healthy leader.   “Not a novice”   I Timothy 3:6  This should include their marriage and family.


The number #1 human factor in church planting success is the leader!

3.  Is the planter in harmony with those who may be sponsoring the church plant?

Theological, philosophical and practical agreement.
The number #1 human factor in church planting success is the leader!

4.  Does the planter have those who would speak well of them and their fitness for church planting?

The support of others is a confirmation of gifts and character needed for church planting.
The number #1 human factor in church planting success is the leader!

5.  Has the planter mastered the basic skills of   ministry?

Preaching, teaching, leadership, shepherding, evangelism.
The number #1 human factor in church planting success is the leader!

Are the circumstances of the church plant best suited to the planters effectiveness?

 
EIGHT KEY RISK FACTORS IN PLANTER EFFECTIVENESS….

Eight Key Risk Factors in Planter Effectiveness.
Does the location fit the planters culture and background experience?   1-10
How many ministry partners will join the plant from the start?   1-10
How many pre-existing contacts in the location are open to joining the plant?  1-10
How near is your family or friends to the location you are planting in?  1-10
Eight Key Risk Factors in Planter Effectiveness  
How close are you to other churches that are supportive of your planting work?  1-10
How much financial support will you receive for your work?  1-10
How much ministry success has the planter experienced?  1-10
How strong of a “RIDLEY ASSESSMENT” score does the planter have?
KEY PRINCIPLES IN DEVELOPING A GROWTH AND READINESS PLAN
Don’t rush God.  
Get a good mentor
Get experience
Become aware of your weaknesses
Develop a plan to strengthen weaknesses.
Ask for feedback and input.
Stay humble.  

TWO KEY SCRIPTRUES FOR FUTURE CHURCH PLANTERS

I Peter 5:6   Humble yourself under God’s mighty hand that he may lift you up in due time.

I Timothy 4:14  Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young.  Rather be an example to others in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity.