Practicing a Theology of Change

One of the most striking promises of the Gospel is change. But what does that change look like in the life of a believer? How is that change developed? What part does the church play in the process of transformation? This dissertation explores the relationship between what pastors believe about personal transformation and how they approach the spiritual development of parishioners. While considering the wisdom of current writers and researchers, the study focuses on the thought and practice of 50 churches in the San Francisco Bay Area of California and more specifically on five sample churches that are creatively exploring how to develop believers to spiritual maturity. The study concludes that there is a great need for a clearly articulated theology of change and for ministry designs that bring that theology to life. This dissertation is intended to contribute to the larger, ongoing conversation of spiritual formation. It offers a framework for developing a biblical theology of change and proposes corresponding approaches to worship, preaching, prayer, community and spiritual disciplines.