Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Project Portfolio

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Mindy Smith, DMin

Second Advisor

Sunggu Yang, PhD

Third Advisor

Leonard I. Sweet, PhD

Abstract

This doctoral project emerges from my vocational context as a consultant and pastor working with senior pastors and executive leadership teams within evangelical contexts. Across these settings, I encountered patterns of abuse and unethical and immoral behavior that were not rooted in isolated mistakes but embedded within organizational cultures that normalized pastoral isolation, protected institutional image, and lacked effective structures for accountability. These observations shaped the project’s conviction that, when empowered with appropriate tools for integrity and accountability, leaders can cultivate healthier churches where righteousness is prioritized, harm is prevented, and pastors are supported to finish well for lasting Kingdom impact.

Drawing on workshops, one on one interviews, and prototype testing with senior pastors, executive leaders, and denominational stakeholders, several key research insights emerged. Accountability is frequently misunderstood as punitive rather than formative, resulting in resistance and avoidance. Executive leaders often recognize early warning signs of dysfunction yet lack the theological language, authority, or practical tools to intervene, contributing to mutual culpability through silence. Biblical archetypes have often been misused to justify unhealthy leadership dynamics, yet when interpreted within their proper theological context, they provide a framework for shared authority and responsibility. Dialogue based, team centered formation proved more effective than individual information delivery for catalyzing cultural change within leadership systems. The research further affirmed that diminished humility and approachability often reflect deeper spiritual disengagement, a condition no structural resource alone can remedy apart from renewed attentiveness to God.

In response to these findings, the project is designed as a Video Course and Team Guide for pastors, executive teams, denominational leaders, and church planting networks. This format emphasizes structured dialogue, shared reflection, and practical application that supports systemic reform within church leadership cultures, with the hope that pastors will still love Jesus and finish their leadership journey well.

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