Overview of the Process
- Identify Scriptures
Those following the SDM process study the Bible to identify all Scriptures to the local church and create assessment questions from those Scriptures to inquire whether they are actually implemented. - Pray for Wisdom
The leadership prays for wisdom as to how, and in what priority order, the Lord would have them implemented in His strength.
This will look differently in different churches. At Christian Fellowship we are starting with Ephesians 6:18 and Hebrews 3:12-13 because implementing regular prayer and daily faith building for all should have a large foundational impact on the rest of church life including grace-based continuance in the SDM process. - Implement
As verses are being implemented, special equipping will be provided to those involved as appropriate.
Status of Actual Processes at Our Church
Ephesians 6:18
Summary: Everyone should be prayed for regularly (“at all times”).
SDM Outcome: Everyone is prayed for very regularly
Non-SDM Outcome: Prayer is encouraged and times are set aside for it, but this goal is not explicitly set. Not everyone is prayed for regularly or even at all
Our Status: Implement small groups w/adoptees, establish as relationships form. Connect all people to a small group to pray for them daily
Goal Date: 2021
Hebrews 3:12-13
Summary: Everyone should be encouraged every day to avoid unbelief
SDM Outcome: Everyone is encouraged every day. Unbelief is minimized or prevented
Non-SDM Outcome: Encouragement happens but this Biblical goal is not explicitly aimed for
Our Status: Implement small groups w/ adoptees, establish as relationships form. Develop method of communicating encouragement daily
Goal Date: 2021-2022
Matthew 18:15-16, 2 Cor 12:20
Summary: Relationally safe culture for resolving conflict and avoiding gossip
SDM Outcome: Each person is clear on how to resolve conflict and how to respond to attempted gossip to prevent it at inception
Non-SDM Outcome: Resolving conflict Biblically and avoiding gossip are taught and addressed on a case by case basis
Our Status: DFF updated to explain expectations.Plan to implement as part of discipleship process
Goal Date: 2021-2022
Matthew 28:18-20
Summary: Teach all to make disciples and teach all Jesus commanded
SDM Outcome: All people have individual discipleship growth paths and associated relationships to facilitate.
Non-SDM Outcome: Varies widely
Our Status: Leadership team to develop plan. Implement in small chunks.
Goal Date: Start top priorities in 2021 (e.g. Matt 18). Foundation built in 2021-2022