Shepherding Wandering Sheep:
An Examination
of Elders’ Attitudes Regarding
Inactive Christians
by
Randall Justin Imel
Bachelor of Arts, Heritage Christian University,
1996
Master of Science, Regions University, 1998
Master of Divinity, Regions University, 2004
A Dissertation Submitted to
the Faculty of Regions University
for the Doctor of Ministry Degree in Christian
Ministry
January 2007
Abstract
This study
came about as a result of a decline in churches of Christ and the
necessity for elders to seek members who have wandered.
The objective of this study was
to examine the attitudes of elders in churches of Christ in Lincoln and
Kanawha Counties of West Virginia concerning inactive Christians.
An examination is made of the responsibilities of elders toward
inactive Christians, reasons Christians become inactive, and practical
steps elders can take to restore inactive Christians.
Nine elders participated in
interviews that covered their previous experiences with elders and
inactive Christians, their present experiences with inactive
Christians, and the meaning they make of those experiences.
The results of the study are: the
elders in the study are cognizant of their responsibilities toward
inactive Christians; they believe they have appropriate communication
skills to work with inactive Christians; they do not fear anger’s being
expressed by inactive Christians; they do not fear legal action from
inactive Christians; and, they desire to know how to work with inactive
Christians more effectively.
Dedication
This work is
adoringly dedicated to Tammy LeAnn Imel, the love of my life.
When writing the description of the virtuous woman, King Lemuel could
have easily been describing you, Tam. You have worked diligently
that I may obtain this degree – from helping the boys with their
homework to making sure I had ample study time. Now it’s my
turn! Thanks so much.
This work must also be dedicated
to my two “buddies,” RJ and Wil. You two bring more joy to your
daddy’s life than words could ever express. Thank you for the
patience you two boys have shown, patience well beyond your
years. Now, “Dr. Daddy” will have even more time to throw a ball,
to watch monster trucks, or go to Chuck E. Cheese.
This work must also be dedicated
to two wonderful parents, Randy and Cathy. You provided an
environment where Christian values flourished. You showed faith
in all that you did. You continue to be the best parents a son
could wish for. Thanks for all you mean to me.
This work must also be dedicated to two other
parents, Bob and Ann. You raised a daughter who was everything I
always wanted, and for that I am deeply grateful. You have shown
great Christian character from the moment I met you, character which
Tammy also exhibits. Thank you for believing in me.
Acknowledgments
First, I
wish to acknowledge two men who had a vision for Christian
education. Charles Coil founded International Bible College (now
Heritage Christian University), where I received my undergraduate
degree. Because of Brother Coil, I learned the text of Scripture
not only academically, but I learned the value of helping people
understand how the text of Scripture fits their lives. Dr. Rex A.
Turner, Sr., founded Alabama Christian School of Religion (now Regions
University), where I have received my graduate and post-graduate
education. Because of Dr. Turner’s vision, I have grown in my
academic knowledge of Scripture, but also in my ability to apply that
Scripture to my own life and the lives of those who hear me. Even
though they have gone to their reward, they still speak (cf. Heb. 11:4).
I must also acknowledge my family
for the sacrifices they have made in making this degree possible.
My wife Tammy has done more than her fair share around the house to
make sure I had ample time to devote to my studies. My two
children, RJ and Wil, have put up with Daddy’s reading a book when they
wanted him to play. Those days are over!
I also wish to acknowledge Dr.
Leon Estep for his patience and for his wise counsel. Dr. Estep
has always been available by either telephone or e-mail, and I am
deeply appreciative. Drs. Kimberly Estep and James Crabtree have
also been available and helped refine this dissertation. Dr. Dale
Bertram helped make sure this project met the rigors of qualitative
research. Dr. Bill Bagents critiqued the proposal and offered
invaluable input. For all their help, I am truly grateful.
I also wish to thank Joyce
Williams at the Kanawha County Public Library for her unfailing
support. Joyce has been able to find books and articles no other
librarian could find. She has found books in several states and
in a few foreign countries. Without her, my studies would not
have been nearly complete.
I also wish to acknowledge my
deep gratitude for the brethren at the Alum Creek Church of
Christ. During the past six years, they have treated me and my
family with the utmost love and concern. I am deeply indebted to
this family of believers.
Finally, I wish to thank the
elders who participated in this study. Their willingness to share
freely their ideas was a great benefit not only to this study, but also
to me personally. I left each elder feeling more certain about
the state of the church as she enters the twenty-first century.
Thanks so much for your help and your inspiration.