Document Type

Article

Department

Claremont Graduate University

Publication Date

2010

Disciplines

Christianity | History of Christianity | Missions and World Christianity | Social Psychology

Abstract

“Co-operation and the Promotion of Unity” was one the major themes addressed at Edinburgh 1910. The goal was increased cooperation among Christian organizations that would lead to greater ministry effectiveness. Five group processes are presented in light of empirical studies demonstrating their ability to increase group performance: 1) Trust (reciprocal beliefs that the one party will promote the well being of another; 2) Constructive conflict (objective consideration and evaluation of various ways of accomplishing a common goal); 3) Decision commitment (beliefs held by all parties concerning the importance of following through on group decisions); 4) Accountability (the expectation that a party may be called to justify its beliefs and actions to other parties and to accept the consequences); and 5) Group goals (beliefs held by all parties concerning desired outcomes). The application of these processes to Christian organizations desiring to grow in Christian cooperation and ministry effectiveness is discussed.

Download

Share

COinS