Training

It is useful to understand the distinction between quantitative and qualitative Research. Both are useful, though they have different focuses and use different research methods.

Quantitative Research

• “Hard Research”
• Tends to be more objective, “empirical” and number oriented.
• Strives to answer the questions: Who? What? When? Where?
• Focus on the “facts”

Qualitative Research

Everyone within OC is a part of a learning community. “We” become smarter when each person is learning and sharing discoveries with others.Likewise, a core value of OC is “innovation”. So Innovation will occur only if we continue to learn and try new things, keeping what works and fixing what does not work. There are three

Information can aid effective ministry.

Read the following quote by Stan Nessbaum.

“Let me suggest that the New Testament mandate for research is hiding in plain sight in both the Great Commission and the Great Commandment. The Great Commission is a command to make disciples, and how can we make disciples of people we do not understand? Field research is an attempt to deepen our understanding of people in order to improve our communication and multiply our disciple-making.” Breakthrough, page 4.

"Now these are the numbers of the divisions equipped for war, who came to David at Hebron, to turn the kingdom of Saul to him, according to the word of the LORD.... Of the sons of Issachar, men who understood the times, with knowledge of what Israel should do, their chiefs {were} two hundred; and all their kinsmen {were} at their command." I Chronicles 12,23,32

“Great are the works of the Lord; They are studied (sought out) by all who delight in them.” Psalm 111:2 NASB

Psalm 111 introduces us to an important motivation for a ministry researcher:

We are faced with a multitude of ministry opportunities and limited resources. How do we decide what course of action to take?

It would be a simple matter if our ears were perfectly attuned to God and He were pleased to furnish us with specific instructions. God occasionally gives specific direction. But generally Christians must make decisions about specific ministry opportunities without a specific word from God. Research, then, is a biblical tool for accomplishing our vision.

1 Chronicles 21:1-3 – Gathering data for prideful, sinful purposes.
Watch out for people who seek their own glory!

Numbers 13:24 – 14:5 – Misinterpreting or misusing the data.
Do not forget faith; without it, it is impossible to please God!

Joshua 7:1-5 – Over-reliance on data; failure to pray and consult the Lord.
Information is not a substitute for holiness, integrity and prayer!

Experience shows that spiritual warfare manifests itself in Ministry Research

More information about this topic is found in Understanding your City by L & S Kraft, found in the Resource Downloads section under "Training".
A. Census of the people:

“Learning is the difference between a job done and a job well done.”