The RenewaNation Review 2019 Volume 11 Issue 2 | Page 17

RENEWANATION DISTINCTIVES Renewanation’s revitalization program is based on a biblical foundation built around the institutions God created for the evangelism and discipleship of young people with a biblical worldview at the center. BIBLICAL FOUNDATION God created two great commission institutions for the evangelism and discipleship of children with a third insti- tution that operates by delegated authority. Renewanation helps churches develop Bible-based, Christ-centered vibrant ministries around the four areas that influence the spiritual life of young people the most: parents, grandparents, educa- tion, and the church. • The family: “So that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his command- ments; and they should not be like their fathers, a stub- born and rebellious generation” (Ps 78:7-8). • The church: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matt 28:19-20). • The school: “A student [disciple] is not above his teach- er, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW I define biblical worldview as a set of beliefs, assumptions, or values based on the Bible that determines how a person lives. We help churches integrate a Bible-based set of core truths into its curriculum, classrooms, volunteer training, and homes. Renewanation’s church revitalization program has three phases: 1. Assessment: The first phase consists of a two-day visit where we will begin an in-depth analysis of existing conditions and provide suggestions to increase health and impact of the children’s and youth ministry. During this time, we examine philosophy, personnel, and programs through observation and interviews. During this phase, we will meet with key individuals in the organization, ask questions, listen, look for patterns, and make recommendations. 2. Strategic planning: The second phase involves a one-day visit where we facilitate the development of a new strategic deployment plan with a small number of church leaders. During this phase, we arrive at a shared philosophy, dream about future outcomes, and identify key priorities culminating in a detailed action plan. 3. Implementation: The third phase is ongoing support and coaching for a period of six to nine months to help a church implement its strategic plan. This phase consists of monthly phone or video calls to track progress. THE NEXT STEP Church leaders have access to great books that can help grow a ministry, but sometimes it takes an outside perspective and a hands-on approach to bring about significant transforma- tion. If you would like to explore our church revitalization program and the possibility of working with Renewanation, contact Dr. Josh Mulvihill at [email protected]. We would be delighted to serve your church. ■ Dr. Josh Mulvihill is the Executive Director of Church and Family Ministry at Renewanation. He served as a pastor for nearly 20 years and helped launch The Legacy Coalition, a ministry that equips grandparents to pass faith on to future generations. He holds a Ph.D. from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of Biblical Grandparenting and Preparing Children for Marriage. Josh is married to Jen, and they have five children. Connect with Josh on Twitter at @DrJoshMulvihill. 17