searching for our unique purpose in the body of …2017).pdfpersonality inventory p. 39 abilities...
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3700 Prosperity Church Rd. Charlotte, NC 28269 Office: 704-549-8272 Fax: 704-548-8081 www.stonebridge.org
SEARCHING FOR OUR UNIQUE PURPOSE IN THE BODY OF CHRIST
“NowyouarethebodyofChrist,andeachoneofyouisapartofit.”(1Corinthians12:27)
Ifyou’reaChristian,you’reapartofthebody.WhentheApostlePaulusesthisdescriptionin1Corinthiansandelsewhere,it’snotmerelyawordpicture.Pauldoesnotmerelyintendtosaythatthechurchislikeabody;inaveryrealsense,thechurchisabody—notjustanorganizationbutanorganism,somethinglivingandorganicthat’snotexplainedmerelybystructuresandElowcharts.
ThepurposeofthiscourseistohelpyouEindyourplaceinthisbody,toliveoutthecallingofGodonyourlifeandtoplayaservingroleinGod’swork.OurhopethroughthisclassisthesamegoalthatPaulexpressedtotheEphesians:
“...toprepareGod'speopleforworksofservice,sothatthebodyofChristmaybebuiltupuntilweallreachunityinthefaithandintheknowledgeoftheSonofGodandbecomemature,attainingtothewholemeasureofthefullnessofChrist.”(Ephesians4:12-13).
Webelievethatthismaterialwillbehelpfulfornewpeopleinourchurchwhoaretryingtodiscovertheirplaceinthebody,butalsoforpeoplewhoarealreadyserving,tohelpthemhonetheirserviceanddiscovertheplaceswhereGodiscallingthemtofocustheirenergy.
Toaccomplishthis,you’llnoticethattheclasshasaseriesofassignmentsaccompanyingthesessionnotes.These‘inventories’personalizethematerialandarethekeytomakingpersonalapplicationanddiscovery.Keepingupwiththe‘homework’isessentialtotheprocess.Aftertheclass,we’dalsoliketosetupatimeforyoutomeetwithoneofourchurchleadersforaministryconsultationsowecanhelpyouinthenextstepsofactualizingyourdiscoveries.
Letusknowhowwecanhelpalongtheway.We’regratefulforyourcommitmenttothisprocess!
GraceandPeace,
KevinBurrellPastorofConnections
Session 1 Ambition and the Gap p. 3 The dangers of minimizing my inability
Session 2 Grace and the Gap p. 7 My strengths are not always the place of my greatest effectiveness
Session 3 Calling and Purpose p. 11 Understanding the call and its Kingdom purpose
Session 4 Personality p. 15 God uses my disposition for his purposes
Session 5 Abilities & Experiences p. 21 My abilities and experiences are indications of God’s work in me
Session 6 Spiritual Giftings p. 25 The Spirit empowers my abilities for the benefit of others
Session 7 Margin p. 29 My calling should be reflected in my calendar
Session 8 Synthesis p. 33 Pursuing my next step of faithfulness
Personality Inventory p. 39 Abilities Inventory p. 47 Spiritual Gifts Inventory p. 55 Experiences Inventory p. 69 Personality Types p. 75
W E L C O M E T O C O N N E C T
P A G E �3
EXPLAININGTHECLASS
KEEPINGTHEFOCUSONTHEPROPERSUBJECT
‘ME’ as the Indirect Object
“GOD gave me a KINGDOM ROLE.”
A study of calling, and the material is you, not the other way around.
Playing to our weaknesses or playing to our strengths?
Purpose The trouble is that, as modern people, we have too much to live with and too little to live for. - Os Guinness
Ordinary Glory But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. - 2 Corinthians 4:7
�3
[James and John] replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” “You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” “We can,” they answered. - Mark 10:37-39
TOOLS to CONNECTING
Personality Inventory Due _______________Abilities Inventory Due _______________Spiritual Gifts Inventory Due _______________Life Experiences Inventory Due _______________Ministry Consultation Date _______________
S E S S I O N 1
AMBITIONANDTHEGAP
P A G E �4
DEFININGTHEGAP
2 Corinthians 2:15-16
The Gap
There is a gap between your condition and your calling— your condition as a sinner, even if you’re already a Christian, and the calling to join in this great promise to literally transform the world. - Joe Novenson
Two common responses to The Gap
Minimizing the gap: “There is no gap.” Result: self-reliance/ambition/burnout
Maximizing the gap: “The gap is too great.” Result: inaction/discouragement.
Both this feigned humility and this confidence in the flesh make too much of humans and too little of Jesus. - Joe Novenson
THETYRANNYOFSELF-IMPORTANCE
Mark 10:35-45
The worthy goal of significance, but misplaced...
P A G E �4
Ambition & Calling
Who knows how easily ambition disguises itself under the name of a calling, possibly in good faith, and deceiving itself, saint that it is! - Victor Hugo, in Les Misérables
P A G E �5
How is it that I matter in the Kingdom?
Stumbling into Significance
Ambitious for what?
Do vs. Be
P A G E �5
Legacy I hope I would leave a legacy of joy, a legacy of real compassion because I think that there is a great joy in real compassion... But I have a feeling that if my life is motivated by my ambition to leave a legacy, what I’ll probably leave as a legacy is ambition. But if my life is motivated by the power of the Spirit in me, if I live in the awareness of the indwelling Christ, if I allow His presence to guide my actions, to guide my motives... that’s the only time, I think, that we leave a great legacy. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. My ambition to be a good guy is a fleshly ambition. And when Christ calls us to take up our cross and follow him, a lot of us think that what that means is that we’re supposed to lay down our vices, and we’re supposed to cling to virtues.
But I think that unless Christ is Lord of our virtues, our virtues become dangerous to us, and dangerous to the people around us. I think that when Christ calls us to take up our cross, what he means is that you must die not only to whatever vices are in your life, which he will eventually kill out, but you must also die to whatever virtues are in your life. Your life is not valuable because you’re an articulate speaker; your life is not valuable because you’re a generous person; your life is not valuable because of any of that. If we empty ourselves of everything and allow God to be present, then it’s no longer us—it’s Him. Then it becomes a spiritual thing. And that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. And that’s when I think Christianity really begins to make sense.” - Rich Mullins
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Notes, Thoughts, Personal Discoveries, Etc.
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses... For when I am weak, then I am strong. - 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
S E S S I O N 2
GRACEANDTHEGAP
P A G E �7
REVIEWINGTHEGAP The gap between condition and calling
Making too little of the gap = self-reliance, ambition
Making too much of the gap = discouragement, inaction
SOVEREIGNINSPITEOFUS
A. Beyond Personality (Esther)
Esther and Mordecai (Esther 2:5-6) in pagan Persia (Compare their lifestyle with Daniel in a similar situation!)
The command of 586 B.C. (Jeremiah 29:7) and the new opportunity of 538 B.C.
How would a Jew back in resettled Jerusalem have described Jews like Esther and Mordecai?
What about you? How can comfort get in the way of calling?
Unlikely Leadership Here is God’s leadership model: he chooses fools to live foolishly in order to reveal the economy of heaven, which reverses and inverts the wisdom of this world. He calls us to brokenness, not performance; to relationships, not commotion; to grace, not success. It is no wonder that this kind of leadership is neither spoken of nor admired in our business schools or even our seminaries. - Dan Allender
Unqualified One can never see, or not till long afterwards, why any one was selected for any job. And when one does, it is usually some reason that leaves no room for vanity. Certainly, it is never for what the man himself would have regarded as his chief qualifications.
- C.S. Lewis, in Perelandra
P A G E �7
P A G E �8
B. Beyond Ability
Peter and John in Acts 4:8-13
Moses in Exodus 3:10-12
Can you think of an instance where God stretched your natural abilities for His purposes?
C. Beyond Motivations
Jonah in Jonah 1:1-3 and Jonah 3:10-4:11
Joseph’s Brothers in Genesis 50:20
Any personal examples come to mind?
Accepted
The supreme happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves—say rather, loved in spite of ourselves. - Victor Hugo, in Les Misérables
Mattering Every moment of obscure service makes the hall of fame in heaven. This means that everybody, no matter what color, what economic reality, what gender, or what position they have or will never have in this life can do something great for God... Therefore, those of you searching for something larger, faster, and more significant, who feel that if you could just be somewhere else doing something else as somebody else, then your life would really matter—Jesus has come to confound you.
- Zack Eswine, Sensing Jesus: Life and Ministry as a Human Being
Limping Leaders
A limping leader is the kind of person God uses to accomplish amazing things.
- Dan Allender, Leading with a Limp
P A G E �8
P A G E �9
D. Beyond Resources
Elijah & The Widow at Zarephath in 1 Kings 17:7-16
Has God ever supernaturally provided for you (time, money, resources, patience, etc.) in order to meet the needs of another person?
E. Treasures in Jars of Clay
Why would God continue to play to our weaknesses and not simply use our perceived strengths?
Ephesians 2:6-7
2 Corinthians 4:7
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
P A G E �9
Enabled God bids us serve him, and he will enable us to serve him. The Lord not only fits work for us, but fits us for our work; with his command he gives power. - Thomas Watson
Faith
We never become truly spiritual by sitting down and wishing to become so. You must undertake something so great that you cannot accomplish it unaided. - Phillips Brooks
P A G E �1 0
The Jack Miller Equation:
“The glory of God is the difference between what we naturally do and what we do by grace.”
So why does God sometimes stretch us beyond our abilities?
Defining the variables: John 15:5
David Ireland, Letters to an Unborn Child
Beyond Possible
Faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. There is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible. Faith begins where man’s power ends. - George Muller
Misfits
If you’re not involved in any service or ministry, what excuse have you been using? Abraham was old, Jacob was insecure, Leah was unattractive, Joseph was abused, Moses stuttered, Gideon was poor, Samson was codependent, Rahab was immoral, David had an affair and all kinds of family problems, Elijah was suicidal, Jeremiah was depressed, Jonah was reluctant, Naomi was a widow, John the Baptist was eccentric to say the least, Peter was impulsive and hot-tempered, Martha worried a lot, the Samaritan woman had several failed marriages, Zacchaeus was unpopular, Thomas had doubts, Paul had poor health, and Timothy was timid. That is quite a variety of misfits, but God used each of them in his service. He will use you, too, if you stop making excuses. - Rick Warren
P A G E �1 0
What God can do with you by
grace
What you can do by yourself
Grace that gives glory to
God
I appeal as a fellow-elder, a witness of Christ's sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers--not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. (1 Peter 5:1-3)
S E S S I O N 3
CALLINGANDPURPOSE
P A G E �1 1
WHENIGROWUP…“What are your plans for the future, Lloyd?”
To make the choice of a career or profession on selfish grounds, without a true sense of calling, is... probably the greatest single sin any young person can commit, for it is the deliberate withdrawal from allegiance to God of the greatest part of time and strength. - Archbishop William Temple
DEFINING‘CALL’ Call as invitation (ex: Matthew 22:14)
Call as technical term (ex: Romans 8:28-30)
Call as final destination (ex: Philippians 3:14)
Call as specific assignment:
Romans 1:1: Called to _________________________________
1 Corinthians 7:17: Called to ___________________________
Hebrews 11:8: Called to _______________________________
1 Peter 2:19-21: Called to ______________________________
Legacy Can a lifetime represent a single motive? - T. S. Eliot
If the single motive is our own, the answer to Eliot must be no. But if the single motive is the master motivation of God’s calling, the answer is yes. In any and all situations, both today and tomorrow’s tomorrow, God’s call to us is the unchanging and ultimate whence, what, why, and whither of our lives. - Os Guinness
Call Calling is the truth that God calls us to himself so decisively that everything we are, everything we do, and everything we have is invested with a special devotion and dynamism lived out as a response to his summons and service. - Os Guinness
Direction
For the secret of man’s being is not only to live... but to live for something definite. Without a firm notion of what he is living for, man will not accept life and will rather destroy himself than remain on earth.
- Fyodor Dostoevsky, in Brothers Karamozov
Light to the World The holiest moment of the church service is the moment when God’s people—strengthened by preaching and sacrament—go out of the church door into the world to be the Church. We don’t go to church; we are the church. - Ernest Southcott
P A G E �1 1
P A G E �1 2
LIVINGTHE‘CALL’The Priesthood of Believers, and the Church as the Called
IDENTITYDETERMINESPURPOSEHow do the following theories of the nature of humanity affect the way we perceive our identity?
“All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players: They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts... ... last scene of all, That ends this strange eventful history, Is second childishness, and mere oblivion, Sans teeth, sans eyes, sans taste, sans everything.” - William Shakespeare, As You Like It
“We of the Church believe that man is basically good, that he is seeking to survive, and that his survival depends upon himself and upon his fellows and his attainment of brotherhood with the universe.” - From The Creed of the Church of Scientology
P A G E �1 2
“The purpose of life is to end.” - Agent Smith, in The Matrix Revolutions
“All we are is dust in the wind...” - Kansas
“In short, a land ethic [environmental code] changes the role of Homo sapiens from conqueror of the land-community to plain member and citizen of it.” - Aldo Leopold, A Sand County Almanac
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” - 1 Peter 2:9-10
CHRISTANDCULTURE:THREEAPPROACHES
CULTURE
CHURCH
CULTURE
CHURCHCHURCH
CULTURE
CHRISTAPARTFROMCULTURE
CHRISTIN
CULTURE
CHRISTTRANSFORMING
CULTUREPrivatization of faith, Christian
subculture, church abdicates their influence
Loss of message in an effort at ‘relevance’, church abdicates their
distinctiveness
A call to influence all levels of culture with the transformative
message of the Gospel
P A G E �1 3
AGOD-DEFINEDPURPOSE ANULTIMATEPURPOSEINCREATION
Psalm 19:1
1 Chronicles 16:30-33
Colossians 1:16
Psalm 57:11
AUNIVERSALPURPOSEFORMANKIND
Genesis 1:27
IMAGE of God
[Adam and Eve] were finite, physical representations of their Creator. As astounding as these descriptions may be, we must not miss how it discloses our humility. We are images of God, but that’s all we are—images.... We are not equal with our Maker; we do not have a spark of divinity within us. We are nothing more than creatures that reflect our Creator.
- Richard Pratt
No man can take a survey of himself but he must immediately turn to the contemplation of God, in whom he ‘lives and moves’; since it is evident that the talents which we possess are not from ourselves, and that our very existence is nothing but a subsistence in God alone. These bounties, distilling to us by drops from heaven, form, as it were, so many streams conducting us to the fountain-head. Our poverty conduces to a clearer display of the infinite fullness of God.
- John Calvin
Image of GOD
Human beings are humble creatures, but look at our label again. We are images, but we are images of God. God did not make Adam and Eve to resemble rocks, trees, or animals. Nothing so common was in his design for us. Instead, God carefully shaped the first man and woman so that they were in His likeness. He determined to make us creatures of incomparable dignity... As strange as it may seem, university students often encounter excessively low views of humanity from the same professors who encourage them to act like gods. I remember my own biology teacher presenting both extreme views. He scoffed at traditional religion and asserted that we must be masters of our own fate. Yet, as contradictory as it seems, he also insisted that the human race is nothing more than the result of random evolution—ooze out of ooze and back to ooze. People are nothing more than lucky mud.
- Richard Pratt
AUNIQUEPURPOSEFOREACHOFHISCHILDREN (See Sessions 4-8!)
Kingdom
The task of the people of God is, as far as possible in a sinful society, to reclaim the cosmos for God’s created purpose. - Carl F. H. Henry
Origin In any journey, how you start affects where you end up. In our quest to find a sense of purpose and meaning to life, our first inclination is to start with ourselves. Unfortunately, this won’t get us where we want to go. If we are to find our purpose, we must begin with God. He alone determines who we are and why we are here.
- Joel Hunter
Do What You Are Far more than a name or place of birth, a job helps us place a person on the map in our minds. After all, work, for most of us, determines a great part of our opportunity for significance and the amount of good we are able to produce in a lifetime. We become what we do. Calling reverses such thinking. A sense of calling should precede a choice of job and career... instead of, ‘You are what you do,’ calling says, ‘Do what you are.’
- Os Guinness
P A G E �1 3
APURPOSEFOR...The arc of the Bible story is one of creation, fall, and redemption. Our purpose is found in this story—one that was marred, but that God through Christ is redeeming and perfecting for the ultimate purpose of his glory.
The Interconnectedness of God’s Purposes
P A G E �1 4
Enjoying The chief end of man is to glorify God by enjoying Him forever. - John Piper
For His Glory If everything that is, exists for the sake of God, then the whole creation must give glory to God. - Abraham Kuyper
Divine Connection The deepest desire of our hearts is for union with God. God created us for union with himself. This is the original purpose of our lives. - Brennan Manning
P A G E �1 4
Manifesting God’s Glory
Purpose for the World
Revealing God to Man
Establishing God’s Kingdom
Glorify God
Purpose for Mankind
Pursue an Eternal Relationship with God
Participate with God in Establishing God’s
Kingdom
so that man can...
so that man can...
so that man can...
A purpose for… Purpose Given Purpose Lost Purpose Redeemed
LIFEGenesis 2:7 Genesis 3:19 Romans 15:5-6, Galatians
2:20, John 10:10
LABORGenesis 1:28, 2:15 Genesis 3:17-19 Philippians 3:7-16, Matthew
28:18-20
LIMITSGenesis 2:17 Genesis 11:1-4 2 Corinthians 12:7-10,
Philippians 4:13
LEARNINGGenesis 2:19-20 Genesis 3:22-24 2 Corinthians 10:5, Colossians
2:2-3
LOVEGenesis 2:23-24 Genesis 3:12, 16 Matthew 22:36-40, John
14:21
Therefore, my dear friends, just as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence but also in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose. - Philippians 2:12-13
S E S S I O N 4
PERSONALITY
P A G E �1 5
GLORIFIEDINTHELITTLETHINGS
Luke 16:10
God does the spectacular in the midst of the normal.
Our perceived greatest achievement? God’s?
A Book Report on Peter Rabbit!
Lucy:
Schroeder:
Linus:
Charlie Brown:
PERSONALITY:APIECEOFTHE‘NORMAL’ Frequency of word usage in the Bible:
Personality: ______
Disposition: ______
Identity: ______
Tendency: ______
Temperament: ______
So why study personality?
Faithful in Little Most people spend their whole life waiting for something big to happen. Life is what takes place when you’re waiting for something big to happen. And life is what’s important; the everyday is what’s important. That’s what God wants you to glory in... that’s where you spend ninety-nine percent of your life. And if we think that holiness and perseverance is so that something big is going to happen in our life, we’ve just missed ninety-nine percent of our lives. God has given us this wonderful call to take into our daily lives every day... and most of us think that’s too ordinary.
- Joel Hunter
Unique Worship
God wants to know the real you, not a caricature of what somebody else wants you to be. He created you with a certain personality and a certain spiritual temperament. God wants your worship according to the way he made you. That may differ somewhat from the worship of the person who brought you to Christ or the person who leads your Bible study or church.
- Gary Thomas
Approach What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.
- A.W. Tozer
P A G E �1 5
P A G E �1 6
Commands of Scripture:
Romans 15:7
Romans 12:10
1 John 3:18
Philippians 2:3-4
How does a better understanding of another person’s personality help you act in obedience to these verses? How does a better understanding of your own personality help as well?
Differences Much of the vitality in friendship lies in the honouring of differences, not simply in the enjoyment of similarities.
- James L. Fredericks
Everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects.
- Will Rogers
P A G E �1 6
SOME‘GUESSWORK’BIBLICALEXAMPLES:
1) Different ways people gather and direct their energy:
2) Different ways people perceive and take in information:
3) Different ways people evaluate information and make decisions:
4) Different ways people interact with their environment:
Extrovert (E) Aaron Introvert (I) Moses See Exodus 4.
Sensing (S) Thomas See John 20:24-31
Intuiting (N) David See the psalms!
Thinking (T) Paul Feeling (F) Barnabas See Acts 13:13 and 15:36-41 or David See 2 Samuel 9
Judging (J) Luke See structure of Luke & Acts Perceiving (P) Peter See Matt. 26:33-35, John 18:1-11
P A G E �1 7P A G E �1 7
TRAIT WHEN USED FOR GOD
ACCOMPANYING TEMPTATIONS
Extroversion
Introversion
Sensing
Intuiting
Thinking
Feeling
Judging
Perceiving
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Notes, Thoughts, Personal Discoveries, Etc.
Energizing Preferences How people are energized and where their energy is directed.
Extravert (E)70-75% of an average population
An extravert is energized by other people and external experiences; draws energy from ‘outer world.’
Does best work externally and while in action.
Interests have breadth.
Usually communicates freely and expressively.
Prefers oral communication.
Behavior pattern: acts, maybe reflects, then acts again (afterthought).
Thinks best when talking with people; tends to ‘think out loud.’
Focuses more on people, activity, external environment.
Usually takes the initiative in making contact with other people.
Good at stimulating conversation, switches gears easily.
Tends to have many friends, but these friendships can often be more superficial.
In a work environment, good at stimulating new ideas.
Has broad friendships with many people - is gregarious.
Prefers to talk and listen.
Sensing (S)70% of an average population
Takes in information by way of the five senses — sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste.
Looks at specific parts and pieces; processes sequentially.
Deals with known facts.
Trusts experience.
Focuses on ‘what is’; lives in the present, enjoying what is ‘here and now.’
Dislikes new problems unless there is a standard solution.
Likes the concrete dimension.
In communicating, draws upon examples and descriptions, speaking more precisely.
Learns sequentially, step by step. Patient with details.
Tends to be good at precise work.
Values experience and consistency, looks for practical solutions.
More realistic.
Introvert (I)25-30% of an average population
An introvert is energized by inner resources and internal experiences; draws energy from ‘inner world.’
Does best working internally while reflecting.
Interests have depth.
Communication is usually reserved until they know and trust a person.
Prefers written communication.
Behavior pattern: reflects, maybe acts, then reflects again (forethought).
Thinks best when alone - shares with others when clear what they believe.
Focuses more on ideas, private thoughts, personal impressions.
Often lets other people initiate contact.
Good at keeping conversation on track, staying focused.
Tends to have fewer friends, but these friendships run deeper.
In a work environment, good at refining and improving ideas.
Has a few deep friendships - is intimate.
Prefers to read and write.
Intuiting (N)30% of an average population Processes information by way of a ‘sixth’ sense or hunch.
Looks at patterns and relationships; ‘reads between the lines.’
Deals with possibilities.
Trusts theory as much as (or sometimes more than) fact.
Focuses on ‘what can be’; lives toward the future, anticipating what might be.
Likes new problems and developing new solutions.
Likes the abstract dimension.
In communicating, draws upon concepts and analogies, speaking more in generalities.
Learns by seeing connections, jumps in anywhere, and leaps over steps. Impatient with details.
Tends to be good at creating designs.
Values innovation and imagination, looks for creative solutions.
More idealistic.
Observing Preferences How people gather and pay attention to information.
P A G E �1 9Adapted from Lon L. Garber, © 1993, used by permission of the author.
Deciding Preferences How people reach conclusions and make decisions
Thinking (T)67% of men, 33% of women
Decides on the basis of logic and objective considerations.
Tends to decide things impersonally, based upon analysis and principles.
Trusts logic, relies on analysis.
Places a premium of fairness.
Tends to be good at analyzing plans and designs.
Values reasonableness.
Analytical, objective, considers pros and cons.
Prefers to be brief and businesslike when making decisions with others.
Weighs the pros and cons, makes a decision, then considers people’s feelings.
When ‘speaking the truth in love’ (Ephesians 4:15), tends to put the emphasis on truth, sometimes to a fault.
Decides, then weighs the personal impact upon others.
Judging [planning] (J)55-60% of an average population
Lifestyle is decisive, planned, orderly.
Enjoys being decisive.
Feels comfortable when establishing closure; wants things to be settled.
Works best when planning or when following a plan.
Schedules and plans in order to avoid taking on too many tasks and thereby feeling anxiety.
Does not easily tolerate uncertainty.
Values order, structure, systems, and deadlines.
When communicating, talks about results, dislikes ‘rabbit trails.’
Leisure time (vacations, etc.) often organized and scheduled.
Life shows many marks of structure and multiple levels of organization.
Interruptions to the plan are viewed as impeding progress.
“Work before play.”
Feeling (F)33% of men, 67% of women
Decides on the basis of personal and subjective values.
Tends to decide things on the basis of what they like or don’t like, their values, or the impact of decisions on people.
Trusts personal reactions, values opinions.
Places a premium on harmony.
Tends to be good at understanding and appreciating people.
Values compassion.
Sympathetic, subjective, considers personal effects.
Prefers to be unhurried and supportive when making decisions with others.
Weighs personal impact, makes a decision, then supports with logic.
When ‘speaking the truth in love’ (Ephesians 4:15), tends to put the emphasis on love, sometimes to a fault.
Decides, then supports the decision with logic.
Perceiving [experiencing] (P)40-45% of an average population
Lifestyle is flexible, adaptable, and spontaneous.
Enjoys being curious and discovering surprises.
Feels comfortable when maintaining openness; decisions often deferred.
Enjoys working on different projects as interest surfaces.
Energized by tight deadlines but won’t seek them; enjoys the adventure of last-minute rushes.
Able to tolerate ambiguity.
Values adventure, freedom, and going with the flow.
When communicating, talks about options, doesn’t mind sidetracks.
Leisure time (vacations, etc.) often loose and spontaneous.
Lifestyle demonstrates a more random approach.
Interruptions are a welcome distraction.
“Stop and smell the roses.”
Living PreferencesHow people view and interact with life.
P A G E �2 0Adapted from Lon L. Garber, © 1993, used by permission of the author.
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. - Ephesians 2:10
S E S S I O N 5
ABILITIESANDEXPERIENCES
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I.GOD-GIVENTALENT
Innate v. Acquired and the Providence of God
The Dignity of Causality
1. Exodus 31:1-6: Bezalel and Oholiab
God-given skills: ___________________________________________________
2. Exodus 28:1-3: Skilled Men
God-given skills: ___________________________________________________
3. 1 Chronicles 15:22: Kenaniah
God-given skills: ___________________________________________________
4. 2 Chronicles 2:7-8: Craftsmen
God-given skills: ___________________________________________________
5. 2 Chronicles 34:12: Levitical Roles
God-given skills: ___________________________________________________
6. Daniel 1:17: Daniel and Company
God-given skills: ___________________________________________________
Usefulness In God’s economy... there are no little people... and no little places. - Francis Schaeffer
Equipped Every member of the Body has the potential to be—and should be fed and led toward functioning as—a fully equipped agent of Jesus Christ, as His minister. - Jack Hayford
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GOD-GIVENEXPERIENCES
A. Experiences that Define our Passions
1. The Apostle Paul
2. Charles Colson
3. Elizabeth Elliot
4. Isaac Watts
5. You?
B. The Duty of Experience
1. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
2. Attention to Detail: What is God up to in me?
Connection The place where God calls you is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet. - Frederick Buechner
Incarnational Lord, I want to help these men because I have lived among them. I came to know them. I love them. There is injustice in our society, but we can change it. Yes, God, we can change it. I give my life to it.
- Charles Colson
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DANGEROUSVIRTUE
Abilities and Experiences Kept in Perspective
Philippians 3:3-9
The Sevenfold Pedigree
Consider it all skubalon!
Virtuous Conceit If you are a nice person—if virtue comes easily to you—beware! Much is expected of those to whom much is given. If you mistake for your own merits what are really God’s gifts to you through nature, and if you are contented with simply being nice, you are still a rebel: and all those gifts will only make your fall more terrible, your corruption more complicated, your bad example more disastrous. The Devil was an archangel once; his natural gifts were as far above yours as yours are above those of a chimpanzee.
- C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity
Humility If you see a turtle on a fence post, you know at least one thing—he had help. - Alex Haley
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Notes, Thoughts, Personal Discoveries, Etc.
Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. - 1 Peter 4:10
S E S S I O N 6
SPIRITUAL GIFTINGS
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I.AWORKINGDEFINITIONA. Spiritual Gift: Any ability empowered by the Holy Spirit
according to God’s grace, for the benefit of the community of believers.
1. Empowered by the Holy Spirit:
a. 1 Corinthians 12:11
b. 1 Corinthians 12:7
2. According to God’s Grace:
a. Ephesians 4:7
b. 1 Peter 4:10
3. For the Benefit of the Community of Believers:
a. Ephesians 4:12
b. 1 Peter 4:10
B. “For Each One” (Ephesians 4:7, 1 Corinthians 12:7 & 11)
Gift-Giving We must recognize that spiritual gifts are given to every believer. Even immature Christians receive spiritual gifts from the Lord—this was certainly evident in the Corinthian church, which had an abundance of spiritual gifts (1 Cor. 1:7), but was still very immature in many areas of doctrine and conduct. We must not evaluate spiritual maturity on the basis of spiritual gifting. - Wayne Grudem
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SPIRITUALGIFTSMENTIONEDINSCRIPTURE
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II.MISUNDERSTANDINGSREGARDINGSPIRITUALGIFTS
A. The Problem of Narcissism
1. Reflecting back our own delusions
2. How Spiritual Gifts are truly discovered
B. The Problem of Categories
1. No exhaustive list given in any one place
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1CORINTHIANS12:28
1. apostle 2. prophet 3. teacher 4. miracles 5. kinds of healings 6. helps 7. administration 8. tongues
1CORINTHIANS12:8-10
(2) prophecy
(4) miracles (5) gifts of healing
(8) tongues
9. word of wisdom 10. word of knowledge 11. faith
12. discernment 13. interpretation of tongues
EPHESIANS4:11
(1) apostle (2) prophet
14. evangelist 15. pastor-teacher
ROMANS12:6-8
(2) prophecy (3) teaching
16. serving 17. encouraging
18. contributing 19. leadership 20. mercy
1CORINTHIANS7:7
21. marriage? 22. celibacy?
WORKINGDEFINITIONSOFSOMESPIRITUALGIFTS
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2. No specific definitions given
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(Not an exhaustive list, and some overlap is assumed)
Leadership: The ability to set future direction and to communicate that direction so people work together to accomplish its goals and purposes. (Moses)
Pastoral Care: The ability to assume a long-term personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group of believers. (Paul)
Administration: The ability to understand clearly the immediate and long-range goals of a particular unit of the body and to devise and execute effective plans for the accomplishment of those goals. (Jethro)
Prophecy: The ability to speak forth openly the mind and counsel of God so as to exhort, edify, and comfort believers, and to convince unbelievers of God’s truth. (John the Baptist, Nathan)
Mercy: The ability to feel genuine empathy and compassion for individuals who suffer distressing physical, emotional, or mental problems and to translate that compassion into cheerfully done deeds that reflect Christ’s love. (Epaphroditus—Philippians 2)
Giving: The ability to give material resources to expand ministry and meet needs, and yet do it with cheerfulness and out of a sense of simply sharing what God has provided. (Barnabas—Acts 4:34-37)
Faith: The ability to discern the will and purposes of God with extraordinary confidence, and to utterly depend on Him to accomplish His will and purposes. (Abraham—Romans 4:18-21)
Knowledge: The ability to discover, analyze, accumulate, and clarify information and ideas in such a way as to perceive the facts the way God sees them. (Daniel)
Wisdom: The ability to apply God’s truth to specific situations and people and to communicate clearly its application to meet the needs at hand. (Solomon)
Discernment: The ability to know with assurance whether behavior alleged to be of God is really of divine origin or not. (Peter—Acts 5:1-10, Paul—Acts 16:16-18)
Service: The ability to demonstrate God’s love by identifying and willingly meeting practical needs. (the first deacons [Acts 6:1-5])
Helps: The ability to invest time and abilities in the life and ministry of others, thus enabling the people helped to increase the effectiveness of their own spiritual gifts. (Epaphroditus—Philippians 2)
Hospitality: The ability to provide an open house and a warm welcome to those in need of food, fellowship, and lodging. (Lydia [Romans 16:15])
Teaching: The ability to communicate God’s truth in a relevant way so that it can be understood and applied to the hearer’s life. (Matthew, Paul—1 Timothy 1:1)
Evangelism: The ability to proclaim the gospel to the unconverted and to successfully persuade them to start a relationship with Jesus Christ. (Philip—Acts 8:5-13, 26-39, 21:8)
Exhortation: The ability to urge people to action in terms of applying scriptural truth, or to comfort people through the application of scriptural truth to their needs. (Barnabas—Acts 4:36, James—James 2:17-18)
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C. The Problem of Purpose
1. Who is your spiritual gift for?
a. 1 Corinthians 12:7
b. Ephesians 4:12
2. Is it possible to have a spiritual gift and not use it? As you answer this, consider 1 Timothy 4:14 and 2 Timothy 1:6.
3. What is the difference between an ability and a spiritual gift?
III.THECUMULATIVEPURPOSEOFSPIRITUALGIFTS
A. Dependence
B. Ability
C. Foretaste
Benefit Edification is the practical test by which to decide on the admission of any manifestation of power into the church and estimate the comparative value of the gifts. - Thomas C. Edwards
Purpose & Context Edification is the purpose; unity is the context; and love is the controlling principle or attitude for the proper exercise of spiritual gifts.
- Kenneth Gangel
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Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” - Matthew 22:37-40
S E S S I O N 7
MARGIN
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THEGREATESTBARRIERTOCALLING
Epidemic Busyness
Pastoral Pride and Laziness a la Eugene Peterson
‘PROFOUND’TRUTHSONTIMEUSAGE
A. Time is a _____________________ resource. (Job 14:5)
B. All of your time gets ________________.
C. Someone ____________________ how this time gets spent.
D. Time, like every resource in our lives, is a _______ of ________.
Abdicating By lazily abdicating the essential work of deciding and directing, establishing values and setting goals, other people do it for us; then we find ourselves frantically, at the last minute, trying to satisfy a half dozen different demands on our time, none of which is essential to our vocation, to stave off the disaster of disappointing someone. - Eugene Peterson
Stewarding How you spend your time is more important than how you spend your money. Money mistakes can be corrected, but time is gone forever. - David B. Norris
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“Excuse me. I’d like to volunteer for committee work involving
sensitivity and sacrifice in challenging a secularized, value-
impoverished society with the radical claims of the Gospel. I have Thursday afternoons free.”
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CALLINGASPRIORITY-SETTING
___________ is the only one who knows how much time I have left!
Psalm 90:12
The Lesson of the Jar:
Matthew 22:37-39
HOWSCHEDULEDEFINESUS
The normal line of thinking:
Schedule determines purpose. Purpose determines identity.
Reversing this thinking:
_________________ determines ____________________, and
_________________ determines ____________________.
Or: “Identity doesn’t come from ________________________,
it comes from ___________________________.”
The Lie of Time You must therefore zealously guard in his mind the curious assumption ‘My time is my own.’ Let him have the feeling that he starts each day as the lawful possessor of twenty-four hours. You have a delicate task. The assumption you want him to go on making is so absurd that, if once it is questioned, even we cannot find a shred of argument for its defense. The man can neither make, not retain, one moment of time; it all comes to him by pure gift; he might as well regard the sun and moon as his chattels. He is also, in theory, committed to a total service of the Enemy; and if the Enemy appeared to him in bodily form and demanded that total service for even one day, he would not refuse. He would be greatly relieved if that one day involved nothing harder than listening to the conversation of a foolish woman; and he would be relieved almost to the pitch of disappointment if for one half-hour in that day the Enemy said, ‘Now you may go and amuse yourself.’ Now, if he thinks about his assumption for a moment, even he is bound to realize that he is actually in this situation every day. When I speak of preserving this assumption in his mind, therefore, the last thing I mean you to do is to furnish him with arguments for its defense. There aren’t any. Your task is purely negative. Don’t let his thoughts come anywhere near it.”
- C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters
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P A G E �3 1
Why Sabbath?
For Reflection
What ultimate priorities in your life do you feel as though you are doing a good job of fulfilling? Which have been sacrificed at the hands of a hectic lifestyle?
How would a sense of God’s purposes in your life change the way you live out this week’s schedule?
STEWARDINGRESOURCES
Application regarding financial resources
The “Profound Truths” revisited
Resources defining us
Why tithe?
Sabbath Sabbath: uncluttered time and space to distance ourselves from the frenzy of our own activities so we can see what God has been and is doing.
- Eugene Peterson
Riches
To possess riches is to have a right to say how they will or will not be used. To use riches, on the other hand, is to cause them to be consumed or to be transferred to others in exchange for something we desire.... It is possible to use or consume goods we do not own, and it is possible to own what we do not and perhaps cannot use. To trust in riches, on the other hand, is to count upon them to obtain or secure what we treasure most. It is to think that they will bring us happiness and well-being.... If we trust in riches we will also love them and come to serve them. In the light of these distinctions it becomes clear that we can possess without using or trusting. Possession only gives a substantial say over how goods may be used. And we can use without possessing or trusting. And we are painfully aware of how we can trust (and serve) wealth without either possessing or using it. Those poor people whose faith is in riches they neither own nor can use are among the most unhappy people on earth.
-Dallas Willard
Money is like muck, not good except it be spread.
- Francis Bacon
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Notes, Thoughts, Personal Discoveries, Etc.
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’ - Isaiah 6:8
S E S S I O N 8
SYNTHESIS
P A G E �3 3
SEEKINGGOD’SWILL
1) ___________________________________________ 2) ___________________________________________
3) ___________________________________________
4) ___________________________________________
5) ___________________________________________
“The decision to be in God’s will is not the choice between Memphis or Fargo or engineering or art; it’s the daily decision we face to seek God’s kingdom or ours, submit to his lordship or not, live according to his rules or our own. The question God cares about most is not ‘Where should I live?’ but ‘Do I love the Lord with all my heart, soul, strength, and mind, and do I love my neighbor as myself?’ It’s that second question that gets to the heart of God’s will for your life.” - Kevin DeYoung, Just Do Something
THEGAPREVISITED
God addresses the Gap
Isaiah 6:1-8
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Servanthood Whether being a servant is a matter for shame or for pride depends on whose servant one is.
- J.I. Packer
Work To Be Done Here is a test to see if your mission on earth is finished. If you are alive, it isn't.
- Francis Bacon
Satisfying Pursuit Most men are not satisfied with the permanent output of their lives. Nothing can wholly satisfy the life of Christ within his followers except the adoption of Christ’s purpose toward the world he came to redeem. Fame, pleasure, and riches are but husks and ashes in contrast with the boundless and abiding joy of working with God for the fulfillment of his eternal plans. The men who are putting every-thing into Christ’s under-taking are getting out of life its sweetest and most priceless rewards.”
- J. Campbell White
Saved for Service You’re not saved by service, but you are saved for service... Regardless of your job or career, you are called to full-time Christian service. A ‘non-serving Christian’ is a contradiction in terms.
- Rick Warren
Used by God? “Can we believe that God ever modifies His action in response to the suggestions of man? For infinite wisdom does not need telling what is best, and infinite goodness needs no urging to do it. But neither does God need any of those things that are done by finite agents, whether living or inanimate. He could, if He chose, repair our bodies miraculously without food; or give us food without the aid of farmers, bakers, and butchers; or knowledge without the aid of learned men; or convert the heathen without missionaries. Instead, He allows soils and weather and animals and the muscles, minds, and wills of men to cooperate in the execution of His will. ‘God,’ says Pascal, ‘instituted prayer in order to lend to His creatures the dignity of causality.’ But it is not only prayer; whenever we act at all, He lends us that dignity. It is not really stranger, nor less strange, that my prayers should affect the course of events than that my other actions should do so.”
- C. S. Lewis, "The Efficacy of Prayer"
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God equips our calling
Philippians 2:12-13
God uses our obedience
Ephesians 2:8-10
SYNTHESIZING
A. Personality:
Your personality type: ____ ____ ____ ____
Were there any ways in which your study of your personality aided in your understanding of God’s ’wiring’ you for service?
B. Abilities:
During our study of natural abilities, did any of the abilities you listed seem to meet current needs in our church? How so?
P A G E �3 4
P A G E �3 5
C. Spiritual Giftings:
What giftings were identified by you and confirmed by the observations of others? How can you more fully use these gifts? Think about some specific ideas.
D. Biography:
What of your past suggests a ministry direction for your future?
E. Margin
What changes have you felt led to make, if any, in the way you utilize your time and your resources?
Joyous Meaning Knowing your purpose motivates your life. Purpose always produces passion. Nothing energizes like a clear purpose. On the other hand, passion dissipates when you lack a clear purpose. Just getting out of bed becomes a major chore. It is usually meaningless work, not overwork, that wears us down, saps our strength, and robs our joy. - Rick Warren
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P A G E �3 6
F. The Big Picture
If the rest of your life consisted of only a single ministry, what do you believe that ministry might be?
If you have already been involved in a ministry of the church, has this class confirmed that calling or caused you to question it? Write your thoughts here.
The purpose statement of StoneBridge is “Building bridges of grace to the glory of God.” How might God be calling you to contribute to this purpose?
Listening We can speak of a man’s choosing his vocation, but perhaps it is at least as accurate to speak of a vocation’s choosing the man, of a call being given and a man’s hearing it, or not hearing it. And maybe that is the place to start: the business of listening and hearing. A man’s life is full of all sorts of voices calling him in all sorts of directions... The more alive and alert we are, the more clamorous our lives are. Which do we listen to? What kind of voice do we listen for? - Frederick Buechner
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ASSIGNMENTS
P A G E �3 7
This evaluation tool isolates various aspects of your personality by asking you questions on the following areas of your life:
* Communication Style * Working Style * Relationship Style * Decision-Making Style
The results will be presented in a format that should be similar to those of the Meyers Briggs Assessment.
You may find some of these questions difficult to answer. It is best to go with your first inclination and try not to second-guess the question, or the scoring.
Instructions
For each question, you will choose between two significantly different responses. Respond as follows:
1. Select the response (a or b) with which you most closely relate.
2. Determine the degree to which you relate to your choice. Use the following scale in judging your response.
PREFERENCE SCALE
1 2 3 4 5
Slight Clear Strong
3. Enter the number (1-5) in the space to the left of your choice (a or b).
This inventory is self-scoring. After completing the questions, transfer your responses to the Personality Profile Score Sheet. Each of your responses consists of two items:
* A response category (a or b) * A response level (1 - 5)
Enter the response level (1 - 5) in either the a or b column beside the associated question. Do this for all four sections of the test.
EXAMPLE: If your response to Question 1 in the Communication section is b, and you gave it a 3, and your response to Question 2 is a, and you gave it a 4, enter as follows:
SECTION 1: COMMUNICATION a b a b
1. _____ _____ 2. _____ _____
After completing each category, total the numbers in all eight columns. After completing all four categories, add the category totals together for a grand total of each column.
The numbers at the bottom in the ‘total’ section should show an inclination towards one or the other of each pair of letters (E or I, S or N, T or F, J or P). Circle one letter from each pair.
Example: Suppose the total scores were: E I S N T F J P 56 14 25 40 20 47 40 22
This person would be an ENFJ. Starting on p. 75 of the Connect Class manual (& also on pp. 19-20), you’ll find some useful information to help interpret your results.
Overview Scoring Instructions
3 4
Your Name: ___________________________________________________________
Date Completed: ________________________________________________________
Adapted with permission, Lon L. Garber, ©1993 P A G E �3 9
Assignment #1: Personality Inventory
Section 1: Communication 1. Home alone on a free evening with no pressing
obligations, would you find yourself: a. ____ a. Wishing the phone would ring b. ____ b. Hoping the phone won’t ring
2. When making a point, do you tend to: a. ____ a. Tell the facts and let them speak for themselves b. ____ b. Expand the facts with principles and analogies
3. When trying to win an argument, are you more likely to be:
a. ____ a. FIRM, win them over with solid logic b. ____ b. PERSUASIVE, appeal to their emotions
4. When listening to others, do you tend toward: a. ____ a. IMPATIENCE, wishing they would wrap it up b. ____ b. PATIENCE, hoping they will tell you more
5. After being involved in a group discussion, do you frequently find yourself:
a. ____ a. Wishing you’d learn to keep your mouth shut b. ____ b. Wishing you were more comfortable stating your opinion
6. When reading non-fiction literature, do you prefer the writer to be:
a. ____ a. LITERAL, saying precisely what he/she means b. ____ b. FIGURATIVE, elaborating with analogies
7. Which of the following is a more satisfying conclusion to a discussion involving opposing opinions?
a. ____ a. Determining a logical, practical direction in which to proceed
b. ____ b. Reaching a consensus on which everyone can agree
8. When drawing conclusions about things you’ve read or heard, do you find yourself:
a. ____ a. Quickly making up your mind on the issue b. ____ b. Staying open, waiting for more information
9. When you attend a party, do you tend to: a. ____ a. Mingle, interact with MANY PEOPLE b. ____ b. Single out a FEW PEOPLE to spend time with
10. When you ask a question, do you pay more attention to:
a. ____ a. The details of his or her response b. ____ b. Reading between the lines of his or her response
11. Would others describe your normal speech pattern as:
a. ____ a. Accurate b. ____ b. Animated
12. When discussing an accomplishment, would you rather dwell on:
a. ____ a. The RESULTS of the process b. ____ b. The PROCESS that led to the results
13. When attending a party, do you tend to: a. ____ a. Initiate conversations easily b. ____ b. Prefer to wait until someone else initiates conversation
14. When trying to illustrate a point in conversation, do you prefer to use:
a. ____ a. EXAMPLES to illustrate specific ideas b. ____ b. COMPARISONS and ANALOGIES to illustrate specific
ideas
15. When listening to other people’s opinions, which tendency do you notice more often?
a. ____ a. I want to understand the thought process that led them to their opinion
b. ____ b. I want to understand their life experiences that led them to their opinion
16. When someone in a group discussion suddenly changes the topic, do you:
a. ____ a. Get nervous or irritated, wishing he would stick to the topic
b. ____ b. Get excited, since sidetracks can sometimes be fun
17. When you attend a large party, do you find yourself wanting to leave the party:
a. ____ a. LATER than most others b. ____ b. EARLIER than most others
18. When trying to communicate an idea, do you prefer to speak:
a. ____ a. Literally b. ____ b. Figuratively
19. When trying to clarify my understanding on a matter, I prefer to talk to someone who:
a. ____ a. DISAGREES with my view b. ____ b. AGREES with my view
20. When you need to make a phone call, do you usually: a. ____ a. Before calling, mentally prepare what you will say b. ____ b. Place the call and say whatever comes to mind
21. When you attend a party, do you tend to: a. ____ a. Leave emotionally CHARGED b. ____ b. Leave emotionally DRAINED
22. Which comment best describes your approach to assembling something unfamiliar?
a. ____ a. Inventory the package contents and read the manual completely before assembling
b. ____ b. Proceed to assemble and read the manual only when needed
23. When in the midst of a heated argument, I frequently sense that arguing:
a. ____ a. HELPS me to sort out/clarify my understanding of the situation
b. ____ b. HINDERS and confuses my understanding and upsets me emotionally
24. When discussing my plans, I am sometimes accused of:
a. ____ a. Being too rigid; not open to sudden changes b. ____ b. Being too flexible; finding it hard to decide between
choices
For each question, select the response (a or b) with which you most closely relate, and then rate the degree with which you relate to that choice on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 = slight, 5 = strong). Enter that number on the blank corresponding to your choice.
Section 2: Relationships 1. When faced with meeting several new people at
once, do you find the experience: a. ____ a. Stimulating b. ____ b. Exhausting
2. When meeting people, do you find yourself drawing conclusions about them:
a. ____ a. OBJECTIVELY, based on what they say and how they act b. ____ b. SUBJECTIVELY, based on what you sense
3. When faced with a personal crisis (your own or someone close to you), which of the following best describes how you will deal with the situation:
a. ____ a. Cool-headed b. ____ b. Warm-hearted
4. When faced with a scenario in which a new piece of information might drastically alter the course of your planning, would you be more inclined to:
a. ____ a. Prepare contingency plans in advance b. ____ b. Take the new information as it comes, and adjust as
needed
5. Which of the following best describes the way you relate to a new acquaintance?
a. ____ a. I am engaging and at ease b. ____ b. I am open to conversation, yet ill at ease
6. Do you find people who are visionary to be: a. ____ a. Somewhat ANNOYING and disruptive b. ____ b. Somewhat FASCINATING and exciting
7. Which working relationship do you most prefer? a. ____ a. CONTRACTUAL, with everything spelled out b. ____ b. CASUAL, leaving the arrangement flexible
8. Do you prefer social times with friends to be: a. ____ a. SCHEDULED well in advance b. ____ b. SPONTANEOUS gatherings
9. Which activity would you prefer on your birthday?
a. ____ a. A LARGE PARTY with all of your friends and acquaintances
b. ____ b. A QUIET TIME with a few really close friends
10. After you’ve gotten to know someone, would you be more inclined to steer the conversation toward:
a. ____ a. His or her activities b. ____ b. His or her ideas
11. Which personal treatment to you consider worse?
a. ____ a. Lack of fairness b. ____ b. Lack of mercy
12. When you get together with friends, do you prefer to:
a. ____ a. Do something constructive or recreational together b. ____ b. Just be together and talk
13. If you rented a secluded mountain cabin (no phone and no TV) for four days and spent the first two days alone, how would you choose to spend the next days?
a. ____ a. Have friends join me b. ____ b. Spend more time alone
14. Among your closest friends, would you rather be known as:
a. ____ a. Practical b. ____ b. Innovative
15. Which of the following is MOST important to you when choosing friends?
a. ____ a. The principles they stand for b. ____ b. Their willingness to be open and share their feelings
16. Which of the following do you prefer in relationships?
a. ____ a. Predictability b. ____ b. Surprises
17. My process of choosing friends can BEST be described as:
a. ____ a. INCLUSIVE, anyone who wants to be my friend is my friend
b. ____ b. SELECTIVE, only those who I feel comfortable being around
18. Which of the following is MORE important when building a new friendship?
a. ____ a. HONESTY/CLARITY—“say what you mean and mean what you say”
b. ____ b. SENSITIVITY—“what’s NOT said is more telling than what is said”
19. When getting to know someone, are you more likely to:
a. ____ a. Thoroughly evaluate them b. ____ b. Accept them as they are
20. When getting to know someone, are you more likely to:
a. ____ a. QUICKLY conclude whether you like them or not b. ____ b. Decide SLOWLY, deliberately resisting early impressions
21. In your opinion, relationships develop BEST: a. ____ a. When there is close and constant interaction b. ____ b. When there is room for “personal space”
22. When talking to friends you know well, do you: a. ____ a. Listen closely to what they say b. ____ b. Often know what they will say before they say it
23. When a friend comes to you to discuss a prob-lem, is it because he or she is assured of receiving from you:
a. ____ a. Clear and logical reasoning b. ____ b. Empathetic understanding
24. I prefer relationships that are best described: a. ____ a. as well-defined, secure, and predictable b. ____ b. as fresh, and full of new dynamics and discoveries
Section 3: Working Environment 1. Would you rather: a. ____ a. Work on a team b. ____ b. Work by yourself
2. When evaluating employees working the same assignment and achieving similar results, would you feel more comfortable with the work of the employee who:
a. ____ a. Models correct procedure b. ____ b. Invents his/her own way
3. Are you more comfortable spending time: a. ____ a. Performing a task b. ____ b. Working with people
4. Which of the following would you consider a better work day?
a. ____ a. A full day of carefully planned assignments/appointments b. ____ b. A busy day of spontaneous activities/meetings
5. Describe your working style: a. ____ a. Full steam ahead b. ____ b. Proceed with caution
6. Which of the following BEST describes your preferred style?
a. ____ a. Applying ideas b. ____ b. Generating new ideas
7. Describe your typical working style: a. ____ a. Just get the job done b. ____ b. Concerned about the feelings of co-workers
8. When choosing what to work on, which do you prefer?
a. ____ a. To select work in a prioritized, orderly fashion b. ____ b. To take work as it comes
9. When you are working at your best, it’s because you are operating with:
a. ____ a. Maximum interaction with and help from fellow-workers b. ____ b. Maximum time to concentrate on the task
10. If you were to receive a brain-power award, would it be for your:
a. ____ a. Powers of observation b. ____ b. Vivid imagination
11. When trying to solve a problem at work, which approach do you tend to try first:
a. ____ a. Search for the answer in a book or information file b. ____ b. Seek other people’s opinions
12. Do those who know you well consider you to be MORE:
a. ____ a. Punctual b. ____ b. Leisurely
13. Which of the following job assignments do you prefer?
a. ____ a. Selling, convincing b. ____ b. Projects where I can work alone without interruptions
14. Which of the following is MORE valuable to you when working:
a. ____ a. Perspiration b. ____ b. Inspiration
15. Which of the following job assignments do you prefer?
a. ____ a. Analyzing and solving problems b. ____ b. Serving and/or supporting people
16. When planning a vacation, do you prefer: a. ____ a. A well-planned and executed itinerary b. ____ b. A free-spirited agenda that is altered frequently
17. If you had to meet someone at the airport whom you had never met, how would you feel just before arriving at the airport?
a. ____ a. COMFORTABLE, looking forward to meeting them b. ____ b. SELF-CONSCIOUS, not sure of how to make
conversation
18. When participating in a group project, with which part would you prefer to help:
a. ____ a. Implementation, follow-up phase b. ____ b. Brainstorming, planning phase
19. Which is MORE important in the work-place? a. ____ a. Justice and fair-play b. ____ b. Praise and pleasing
20. When you are scheduled to meet someone for a business lunch, do you:
a. ____ a. Confirm the appointment b. ____ b. Just show up
21. When asked for your opinion on an important matter, are you MORE comfortable:
a. ____ a. Stating my opinion openly b. ____ b. Telling them you’ll have to think about it and get back
with them
22. When co-workers seek your help with a dilemma, would you prefer they tell you:
a. ____ a. The context of the situation followed by a brief statement of the problem
b. ____ b. A brief statement of the problem followed by the extenuating circumstances
23. If asked to help arbitrate a conflict between two individuals, would you look for:
a. ____ a. The truth in order to make a fair decision b. ____ b. A compromise that would satisfy both parties
24. When you are running late for an appointment, how do you feel when the appointed time arrives but you have not?
a. ____ a. Makes me very anxious until I arrive b. ____ b. Don’t worry about it if I’ll be there within 15 minutes
Section 4: Decision-Making Style 1. I prefer making decisions by: a. ____ a. Seeking advice from several people, then making a group
decision b. ____ b. Seeking advice from several people, them making my
own decision
2. When deciding, do you place more emphasis on: a. ____ a. Facts b. ____ b. Principles
3. When it comes time to make a decision that affects other people, which decision-making tool do you rely on MOST?
a. ____ a. A well defined set of decision criteria b. ____ b. How it affects the people involved
4. When making a personal buying decision, do you prefer to:
a. ____ a. Hurry and get it over with b. ____ b. Go slow and check out all the options
5. When implementing a decision I have made, I tend to:
a. ____ a. Act quickly and adjust as necessary b. ____ b. Think through the implementation thoroughly before
acting
6. When sitting on a jury, would you rely MORE on:
a. ____ a. Facts presented in court b. ____ b. My personal sense of the truth
7. Which of the following centers for decision-making controls you MOST?
a. ____ a. Your head b. ____ b. Your heart
8. Are you MORE comfortable: a. ____ a. Just after a decision is made b. ____ b. Just before a decision is made
9. Before making an important decision, I prefer to: a. ____ a. Talk to as many people as possible b. ____ b. Get alone in a quiet place to think it through
10. Which do you trust MORE? a. ____ a. Your experience b. ____ b. Your intuition, hunches
11. When listening to two sides of an argument, are you:
a. ____ a. More influenced by a CONVINCING argument b. ____ b. More influenced by a TOUCHING argument
12. As a general rule, do you prefer things that are: a. ____ a. SETTLED and decided b. ____ b. TENTATIVE and changeable
13. After hearing both sides of an issue, do you find further discussion of opposing opinions to be:
a. ____ a. Helpful in reaching compromise and/or consensus b. ____ b. Distracting and unproductive
14. When you make a decision, do you place MORE emphasis on:
a. ____ a. Things as they are b. ____ b. Things as they ought to be
15. When judging a matter, are you more swayed by:
a. ____ a. Existing guidelines, rules, and regulations b. ____ b. Mitigating circumstances
16. What types of decisions do you prefer? a. ____ a. Decisions with defined deadlines b. ____ b. Decisions without defined deadlines
17. When a decision needs to be made that affects a group of people, do you:
a. ____ a. Feel comfortable making the decision for the group b. ____ b. Rather someone else decide
18. When it’s time to decide and you are still not sure, what will you do?
a. ____ a. Go over the facts one more time b. ____ b. Put it out of your mind temporarily and wait for an insight
(a new way of looking at the problem)
19. When forced to make a judgment call, would you rather the situation called for a:
a. ____ a. LOGICAL judgment b. ____ b. VALUES judgment
20. When making decisions, would you prefer to: a. ____ a. DECIDE NOW, and get it over with b. ____ b. DECIDE LATER and keep the options open
21. When participating in a group decision-making process, what is your reaction to people who “think out loud”? Do you find them to be:
a. ____ a. Stimulating; they help me see new perspectives b. ____ b. Distracting; I wish they would clarify their thoughts
before speaking
22. When asked to solve a problem, would you prefer to find:
a. ____ a. The most workable solution b. ____ b. The most imaginative solution
23. Would your decisions be characterized BEST as:
a. ____ a. Analytical b. ____ b. Sympathetic
24. When working on a committee, which attitude FRUSTRATES you more:
a. ____ a. People who seem to talk the issue to death and seem afraid to make a decision
b. ____ b. People who seem close-minded and who rush the decision-making process
Personality Profile Score Sheet
1.5.9.13.17.21.
1.5.9.13.17.21.
1.5.9.13.17.21.
1.5.9.13.17.21.
SECTION 1: COMMUNICATION
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ____
a b a b a b a b
SECTION 2: RELATIONSHIPS
SECTION 3: WORKING ENVIRONMENT
SECTION 4: DECISION-MAKING STYLE
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
TOTAL
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ________ ________ ________ ________ ________ ____
____ ____
____ ____
2.6.10.14.18.22.
2.6.10.14.18.22.
2.6.10.14.18.22.
2.6.10.14.18.22.
3.7.11.15.19.23.
3.7.11.15.19.23.
3.7.11.15.19.23.
3.7.11.15.19.23.
4.8.12.16.20.24.
4.8.12.16.20.24.
4.8.12.16.20.24.
4.8.12.16.20.24.
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
TOTAL
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
TOTAL
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
Subtotal
TOTAL
E I S N T F J P
This tool helps you survey yourself to identify the skill areas and situations in which God has enabled you to be especially effective. The survey leads you through a personal inventory of the natural abilities you possess in the following areas of your life:
* Physical * Intellectual * Leadership * Relational * Artistic * Mechanical * Technical * Teaching
Your responses describe who you are; they are for your benefit to help you focus your time and energy, as much as possible, in your areas of maximum productivity and effectiveness.
You may find some of these questions difficult to answer. Take your time and answer thoughtfully. When unsure of an answer, leave it blank and return to it later. If you remain unsure, simply leave that response blank.
SECTIONS 1-8: TALENT & SKILL AREAS There are eight sections to this assessment survey. These sections probe the arenas of your life where natural abilities surface and are developed. In each section, you will be asked to list skills you possess that you feel confident in performing. You answers should reflect your own opinion. Do not be overly influenced by what others have told you. Do not be overly modest. Remember that you do not have to consider yourself of exceptional ability to mark a skill. You just need to feel comfortable and confident when performing it.
When answering these questions, think in terms of your entire lifetime. Include any abilities you have exhibited at some time in your life, even if you are not currently using those abilities.
SECTION 9: SUMMARY The final section of this survey will help you synthesize and summarize the abilities from each of the previous sections that are most prominent and important to you personally.
OverviewInstructions
Adapted with permission, Lon L. Garber, ©1993 P A G E �4 7
Your Name: ___________________________________________________________
Date Completed: ________________________________________________________
Assignment #2: Abilities Inventory
Section 1: Physical Abilities
Check any of the following that you consider yourself above average at.
_____ Strength _____ Good health _____ Energy level _____ Agility _____ Eyesight _____ Hearing
Explain:
List any athletic abilities you possess (sports in which you excel, etc.):
List any awards you’ve received for your physical or athletic ability.
Of the physical abilities mentioned above, which are the most meaningful/significant to you?
Check below any intellectual abilities you possess.
_____ Memory _____ Intuition _____ Analysis _____ Logic _____ Intelligence _____ Humor/Wit _____ Perception _____ Common Sense
Explain:
What were your favorite subjects in school and what attracted you to those subjects?
Elementary
Middle/High School
College/Graduate/Vocational
Do you see any trends above?
What awards/certifications/etc. have you received that give evidence of your intellectual abilities?
Section 2: Intellectual Abilities
_____ Math _____ Foreign language _____ Conceptual ability _____ Reasoning _____ Vocabulary _____ Spelling/Grammar _____ Problem solving _____ Other
_____ Dexterity _____ Speed _____ Athletic ability _____ Martial arts _____ Fitness _____ Other
Section 3: Leadership Abilities
_____ General _____ Example _____ Logic _____ Servant _____ Administrator _____ Team Leader _____ Systematic _____ Harmonizer
Are you fluent/conversant in a language other than English?
What would you consider to be your knowledge strengths? Think broadly: work, leisure, etc.
IMPORTANT: Everyone who influences others is a leader. Therefore, you are a leader even if you don’t feel like one!
Check below any leadership abilities you possess.
_____ Guidance _____ Inspiration _____ Organization _____ Recruiting _____ Evaluation _____ Budgeting _____ Administration _____ Communication _____ Motivation _____ Development _____ Interviewing _____ Standardization
Explain:
When leading people, check the ONE word that best describes your leadership style: _____ Cheerleader _____ Persuader _____ Persistence _____ Demonstrator _____ Facilitator _____ Crusader _____ Gentle Nudger _____ Stabilizer
Explain your choice.
What organizations and activities have you provided with leadership (over your entire life)?
What in your opinion are your greatest leadership talents and abilities?
_____ Planning/Goal-setting _____ Diplomacy _____ Delegation _____ Negotiation _____ Listening _____ Envisioning _____ Problem-Solving _____ Team Building _____ Decision-Making _____ Scheduling _____ Other _____ Other
Check below the relational abilities you possess.
_____ Empathy _____ Adaptability _____ Persuasion _____ Stability _____ Gentle Spirit _____ Listening _____ Conversation _____ Compassion _____ Encouragement
Explain:
Describe the three most important lessons you’ve learned about relationships in your lifetime:
1)
2)
3)
Check below any artistic abilities you possess.
_____ Drawing _____ Painting _____ Sculpting _____ Crafts _____ Chalk Drawing _____ Pottery _____ Interior Design _____ Culinary Arts
Explain:
Check below any musical abilities you possess.
_____ Vocal _____ Instrument
What instrument, if any?
Check below any dramatic abilities you possess.
_____ Set Design _____ Script Writing _____ Acting _____ Dance _____ Choreography
Explain:
Check below the mechanical abilities you possess.
_____ Motors/machinery _____ Automotive _____ Heating/Air _____ Appliance Repair _____ Construction
Explain:
Section 6: Mechanical AbilitiesSection 5: Artistic Abilities
_____ Calligraphy/lettering _____ Scrapbooking _____ Needlework/Sewing _____ Graphic Design _____ Illustrating _____ Photography/Video _____ General Creativity _____ Other
_____ Composing _____ Arranging _____ Conducting/Leading
_____ Directing _____ Costume Design _____ Makeup Artist _____ Other
_____ Electrical _____ Plumbing _____ Handy with Tools _____ General Home Repair _____ Other
Section 4: Relational Abilities
_____ Cross-Cultural Adaptability _____ Discernment _____ Tact _____ Helping _____ Commitment _____ Wisdom _____ Intuition _____ Understanding _____ Accepting _____ Other
What mechanical trades have you learned or have expertise in?
Check below the technical abilities you possess.
_____ Legal _____ Marketing _____ Training _____ Sales _____ Accounting _____ Programming _____ Scientific _____ Medical _____ Office Management _____ Admin/Secretarial _____ Janitorial/Cleaning _____ Child Care
Explain:
What technical trades have you learned or have expertise in?
REMEMBER: Everyone who is a parent is a teacher!
Check below the teaching abilities you possess. _____ Research _____ Lecture _____ Leading Discussion _____ Learning Activities _____ Practical Application _____ Translating _____ Subject Expertise _____ Interaction _____ Modeling _____ Storytelling
Explain:
Is there a specific type of group (children. youth, women, singles, etc.) you find you’re most suited to teaching?
OTHER ABILITIES: What did this survey miss? List below any other abilities you possess.
Section 8: Teaching Abilities
Section 7: Technical Abilities
_____ Landscape Design _____ Engineering _____ Woodworking _____ Video Editing _____ Sound Equipment _____ Software _____ Architectural _____ Web Design _____ Computer Networks _____ Computer Hardware _____ Other
_____ Learning _____ Wisdom _____ Philosophical/ Worldview _____ Discipleship _____ Illustrations _____ Simplifying Big Concepts _____ Analogies _____ Other
Which abilities mentioned in Sections 1-8 have been widely confirmed by others?
Which abilities mentioned in Sections 1-8 surfaced before you were 12 years old?
Which five or six abilities mentioned in Sections 1-8 are you most proud of/grateful for?
Take some time to brainstorm ways in which some of the abilities you’ve mentioned might (either alone or in tandem) be used in our church.
Section 9: Summary Page
While no survey can truly reveal your actual giftings, we hope that this assignment will provide for you some clues to allow you to unearth a few potential gifts. Ultimately, spiritual gifts are confirmed as we use them in ministry to others.
The survey leads you through a personal inventory of the following areas of your life: * Spiritual Influences * Personal Traits * Personal Convictions * Personal Experience * Observations of Others
Your responses describe who you are; there is nothing ‘clinical’ about this test. Patterns will develop in your responses that will provide clues to discovering your spiritual giftedness.
You may find some of these questions difficult to answer. Take your time and answer thoughtfully. When unsure of an answer, leave it blank and return to it later. If you remain unsure, simply leave that response blank.
Our guiding principles regarding spiritual gifts, which will be covered in Session 6, might be helpful here:
1) The authors of scripture never seemed concerned with giving us an exhaustive list of gifts, but merely gave examples when the subject came up. Although you will see some ‘categories’ of giftings in this assignment, it is meant to guide rather than limit.
2) Spiritual gifts are meant for the body of believers, not for the individual. They are discovered only as they are used. This helps differentiate gifts from mere natural abilities.
3) The same spiritual gift may look radically different from person to person.
1. Personal Influences: This section asks you a series of questions concerning people who have been instrumental in your spiritual formation. These questions cover the entire spectrum of your spiritual life: past, present, and your desires for the future. They are included since spiritual gifts often match the gifts of those who influence our spiritual formation.
2. Personal Traits: Place a check mark beside the one set of traits that most closely describes your personality. You may want to reference your personality inventory to help narrow it down. Your personal characteristics provide more clues to your spiritual giftedness.
3. Personal Convictions: This series of questions leads you to look inside yourself for clues to your spiritual gifts. Some of these questions may not be applicable to your life. If so, just leave them blank.
4. Personal Experience: What have you already done in ministry? These questions will help you evaluate past ministry as a way to confirm or deny specific gifts. Place a check mark beside areas where you have had ministry experience. After completing this section, review your answers and circle the ministries you found most fulfilling.
5. Observations of Others: One of the best confirmations of spiritual giftedness is the observation of others. Ask two individuals who know you well to complete this questionnaire about your spiritual gift possibilities.
Overview Instructions
Adapted with permission, Lon L. Garber, ©1993 P A G E �5 5
Your Name: ___________________________________________________________
Date Completed: ________________________________________________________
Assignment #3: Spiritual Gifts Inventory
Section 1: Personal Influences
PAST INFLUENCE Who is the one person (other than a parent) who has had the most significant impact on your spiritual growth and development?
What do you admire about his/her character?
How has this person impacted your life?
Check the spiritual gifts you are fairly sure this person demonstrates (you’ll find some brief descriptions on page 31 of this manual).
_____ Leadership: _____ Pastoral Care _____ Administration _____ Prophecy _____ Mercy _____ Giving
PRESENT INFLUENCE Who in ministry inspires you to grow spiritually (speaker, writer, friend, co-worker, family, etc.)?
How has this person impacted your life?
Circle the spiritual gifts you are fairly sure this person demonstrates:
_____ Leadership: _____ Pastoral Care _____ Administration _____ Prophecy _____ Mercy _____ Giving
FUTURE INFLUENCE
If you could receive on-the-job training from one or two gifted Christians, who would you choose?
What gifts have you observed in this person?
_____ Faith _____ Knowledge _____ Wisdom _____ Discernment _____ Service _____ Helps
_____ Faith _____ Knowledge _____ Wisdom _____ Discernment _____ Service _____ Helps
INSTRUCTIONS: Answer the following questions about those who influence your spiritual growth. They are included since we are naturally drawn to those who have the same spiritual gifts we do.
_____ Hospitality _____ Teaching _____ Evangelism _____ Exhortation _____ Other:
_____ Hospitality _____ Teaching _____ Evangelism _____ Exhortation _____ Other:
Section 2: Personal Traits
_____ 1) Outgoing, conceptual, balanced, confident, assertive, purposeful, authoritative, good listener, clutch performer, mature.
_____ 2) People-oriented, responsible, committed, steady, loving, likeable, attentive, transparent, consistent, sacrificial, discipler’s heart, tolerant, composed.
_____ 3) Task-oriented, reserved with people, action-oriented, organized, detail-oriented, careful, unemotional, high sense of duty, list-maker, authority conscious, clutch performer, determined, productive, stubborn.
_____ 4) Assertive, authoritative, thick-skinned, sometimes seen as abrasive, concerned for social issues, convinced, aloof, isolated, individualistic, serious, concerned about right and wrong, opinionated.
_____ 5) Sensitive, emotionally fragile, empathetic, loving, tolerant, cheerful, helpful, indecisive, tender, sacrificial, quiet, patient, sensitive to people’s feelings, responsive, sincere, willing to help those in need.
_____ 6) People-oriented, goal-centered, visionary, sensitive, challenges others’ lack of faith.
_____ 7) Sensitive to financial needs, discerning, people-oriented, cautious, resistant to appeals for money, frugal, humble, volatile.
_____ 8) Idea-person, conceptual, theoretical, academic, researcher, analytical, focused, absent-minded, concerned about details when learning, believable.
_____ 9) Problem-solvers, people-oriented, practical, student of life, logical, managerial, decisive, gentle, peaceable.
_____ 10) Mature, intuitive, careful, analytical, precise, accurate, intense, authoritative, insightful, cuts right to the heart of a matter, systematic, appears indifferent, serious.
_____ 11) Disciplined, responsible, sacrificial, task-oriented, low-key, likes to work quietly behind the scenes, embarrassed by praise, practical, sensitive to practical needs, can’t seem to say no to requests, likes to roll up sleeves and get on with it.
_____ 12) Helpful, low-key, short-range outlook, practical, task-oriented, likes to work with hands, warm-hearted, humble, faithful, strong stamina when working on a project, highly loyal.
_____ 13) People-oriented, puts people at ease, accepting, laid-back, transparent, cheerful, hospitable, likes to entertain, friendly, outgoing with strangers.
_____ 14) Ideas-oriented, theoretical, articulate, precise, learner, prepared, logical, systematic, analytical, understandable, careful about explaining scripture, creative, self-disciplined, likes to explain things, likes to make people think.
_____ 15) People-oriented, outgoing, takes advantage of witnessing opportunities, articulate, persuasive, comfortable with people, cheerful, friendly, strong concern for unbelievers.
_____ 16) People-oriented, practical, action-oriented, persistent, assertive, advisory, good listener, impatient with people, success-oriented, hard on self and others, introspective, empathetic until they sense empathy is inhibiting change, impulsive, expressive.
_____ 17) Quiet, reserved, dedicated, prayer warrior (prays daily for others), faithful, sensitive, good listener.
INSTRUCTIONS: Place a check mark beside the one set of traits that most closely describes your personality. You may want to reference your personality inventory to help narrow it down.
Section 3: Personal Convictions
PERSONAL CONVICTIONS
I have a growing restless feeling that I should get more involved in:
If I could CHANGE one thing about our church, it would be:
If I could DO one thing to help our church, it would be:
PERSONAL DESIRES
If I could do anything I wanted to do (assuming money, responsibilities, and other limitations were not a factor), I would:
PERSONAL PROMISES
In the past, I have made the following promises to God:
PERSONAL CALLING
I am certain God has called me to a specific ministry:
What gifts are needed for this ministry?
INSTRUCTIONS: Answer the following series of questions concerning your inner convictions. Some of these questions may not be applicable to your life. If so, mark those questions as N/A (not applicable).
Section 4: Personal Experience
1) I have experience providing direction and leadership to ministries by setting goals and motivating people to achieve those goals: Pastor ____________________________________ Elder ____________________________________ Church Staff ____________________________________ Deacon ____________________________________ Worship Leader ____________________________________ Sunday School Leader _____________________________ Ministry Leader ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
2) I have experience nurturing the spiritual development of a group of believers over an extended period of time: Home Group ____________________________________ Discipleship Group _____________________________ Other Small Group _____________________________ Youth Group ____________________________________ College/Career Leader _____________________________ Singles’ Group ____________________________________ Married Couples’ Group _____________________________ Men’s Group ____________________________________ Women’s Group ____________________________________ Senior’s Group ____________________________________ Other Group ____________________________________ 3) I have experience devising and executing plans for accomplishing the established goals of a ministry, including organization, administrative details and follow-up: Church Finances ____________________________________ Office Administration _____________________________ Resource Planning _____________________________ Building Maintenance _____________________________ Grounds Maintenance _____________________________ Building Security _____________________________ Summer Youth Camp _____________________________ Missions Conference _____________________________ Church Retreats ____________________________________ Vacation Bible School _____________________________ Leading a missions trip _____________________________ Outreach/Community Event ___________________________ Other ____________________________________
4) I have experience speaking boldly for God to exhort and comfort believers, expose sin, and to convince unbelievers of God’s truth through: Counseling ____________________________________ Group Meetings ____________________________________ Personal Encounters _____________________________ Social Settings ____________________________________ Other Situations ____________________________________
5) I have experience helping people in need as a way to show God’s love: Deaf Ministry ____________________________________ Handicapped ____________________________________ Food/Clothes Pantry _____________________________ Homeless Ministries _____________________________ Meals for those in need _____________________________ Emergency Childcare _____________________________ Emergency Transportation _____________________________ Emergency Shelter _____________________________ Nursing Home ____________________________________ Hospital ____________________________________ Jail ____________________________________ Rehabilitation Ministry _______________________________ Practical Needs ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
6) I have experience sensing God’s will and believing He’ll do what others think impossible in: Financial Concerns __________________________________ Healing ____________________________________ Relationships ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
7) I have a strong desire to see Christians share financial resources as an expression of God’s provision and love. I express this desire by: Teaching ____________________________________ Wise Use of Money _____________________________ Anonymous Giving _____________________________ Sacrificial Giving _____________________________ Funding Ministry/Missions ____________________________ Other ____________________________________
8) I have experience researching and discovering biblical truth so as to understand God’s perspective on people and situations. This experience comes through: Personal Study ____________________________________ Teaching ____________________________________ Research ____________________________________ Writing ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
9) I have experience applying God’s truth to specific people and situations through: Personal Counsel ____________________________________ Church-sponsored Counseling _________________________ Peacemaking ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
10) I have experience discerning people’s spirits and knowing with assurance whether their behavior is of divine, human, or satanic origin. Counseling ____________________________________ Personal Interaction _____________________________ Other: ____________________________________
INSTRUCTIONS: Circle or check any of the ministries listed below which you have performed to the degree described in the statement listed immediately above it. Use the space to the right to describe the ministry in more detail.
Section 4: Personal Experience (continued)
11) I have experience serving quietly behind the scenes as a demonstration of God’s love for the Body of Christ: Room Set-up ____________________________________ Youth Transportation _____________________________ Youth Helper/Chaperone _____________________________ Children’s Sunday School Helper _______________________ Nursery Worker ____________________________________ Church Newsletter _____________________________ Lights and Sound ____________________________________ CD/Audio Ministry _____________________________ Communion Preparer _____________________________ Church Bookstore _____________________________ Church Library ____________________________________ Practical Needs ____________________________________ Church Dinners ____________________________________ Coffee Ministry setup _____________________________ Special Events ____________________________________ Work Crews ____________________________________ Construction ____________________________________ Grounds Maintenance _____________________________ Cleaning ____________________________________ Building Maintenance _____________________________ Parking Assistance _____________________________ Office Work ____________________________________ Data Entry ____________________________________ Phone Calling ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
12) I have experience helping ministry leaders by providing practical assistance that frees them up to use their leadership skills more effectively. Pastoral Help ____________________________________ Elder Assistance ____________________________________ Worship Leader Help _____________________________ Education Director _____________________________ Youth Director ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
13) I have experience providing warm welcome, fellowship, and comfort to the Body of Christ by: Sharing a meal ____________________________________ Hosting overnight guests _____________________________ Comforting the lonely _____________________________ Befriending Int'l Students _____________________________ Encouraging via notes, e-mails, calls ____________________ Welcoming church visitors_____________________________ Sunday morning greeting _____________________________ Hosting church events _____________________________ Sharing with the needy _____________________________
14) I have experience teaching God’s truth to people so they can understand and apply it to their lives: Pre-School Teacher _____________________________ Elementary Teacher _____________________________ Youth Teacher ____________________________________ Adult Teacher ____________________________________ Bible Study Leader __________________________________ Preaching ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________
15) I have experience communicating the gospel effectively to unbelievers so that they desire to begin a relationship with Jesus Christ. I am energized by sharing my faith with: Friends ____________________________________ Strangers ____________________________________ Family ____________________________________ Anyone who moves and breathes _______________________
16) I regularly encourage people in their faith and consistently urge them towards spiritual growth. This experience includes: One-on-one conversation _____________________________ Marriage counsel/advice _____________________________ Career counsel/advice _____________________________ Interaction in small groups_____________________________ Discipleship ____________________________________ Preaching ____________________________________ Writing ____________________________________ Other ____________________________________ 17) I have been called to a ministry of intercessory prayer on behalf of others. It has exhibited itself in: Short but regular prayer _____________________________ Extended regular prayer _____________________________ Prayer alongside those in need _________________________ Other ____________________________________
FINAL INSTRUCTIONS: Review all entries you checked, and mark (check/star/highlight) the ministry experiences that you found most personally fulfilling. For each marked entry, note the number associated with the category and place a check in the summary area below.
_____ 1) LEADERSHIP _____ 2) PASTORING _____ 3) ADMINISTRATION _____ 4) PROPHECY _____ 5) MERCY _____ 6) FAITH _____ 7) GIVING _____ 8) KNOWLEDGE _____ 9) WISDOM _____ 10) DISCERNMENT _____ 11) SERVICE _____ 12) HELPS _____ 13) HOSPITALITY _____ 14) TEACHING _____ 15) EVANGELISM _____ 16) EXHORTATION _____ 17) INTERCESSION
Section 5: Observations of Others
1) Which gifts are the observers confident you have?
Observer #1: a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
Observer #2: a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
(Optional: Others...) a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
Trends... What gifts are mentioned more than once?
a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
Which gifts do the observers think you might have?
Observer #1: a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
Observer #2: a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
(Optional: Others...) a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
Trends... What gifts are mentioned more than once?
a) _____________________ b) _____________________ c) _____________________
INSTRUCTIONS: One of the best confirmations of spiritual giftedness is the observations of others. Ask two (or more) individuals who know you well to complete this questionnaire about your spiritual gift possibilities. We have provided two copies for you (you can get more ‘looseleaf’ copies from your course leaders or the church office. Each copy has self-contained instructions for the reviewer. Give each copy to someone who is very familiar with your spiritual development and ask them to provide feedback on
their understanding of your spiritual gifts. Upon return, enter their responses in the space provided below. (We’ve left extra blanks in case you decide to ask more than two people!)
Section 5: Observations of Others (to give to another person)
_____ LEADERSHIP—ability to set direction and to communicate that direction so people work together to accomplish its goals and purposes.
_____ PASTORING—ability to assume long-term personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group.
_____ ADMINISTRATION—ability to understand goals and to devise and execute plans to accomplish them.
_____ PROPHECY—ability to speak the mind and counsel of God so as to exhort and comfort believers and to convince unbelievers of God’s truth.
_____ MERCY—ability to feel compassion for needy people and to relieve suffering so as to reflect Christ’s love.
_____ FAITH—ability to discern God’s will and purposes with confidence and to depend upon Him to accomplish great things.
_____ GIVING—ability to provide resources to expand ministry with the sense that it is God who has provided.
_____ KNOWLEDGE—ability to discover, accumulate, and clarify ideas and information in such a way as to perceive the facts as God sees them.
_____ WISDOM—ability to apply God’s truth to specific situations and people and to communicate clearly its application in their lives.
_____ DISCERNMENT—ability to know with assurance whether behavior alleged to be of God is of divine, human, or satanic origin.
_____ SERVICE—ability to demonstrate God’s love by identifying and meeting practical needs.
_____ HELPS—ability to invest time and abilities in the life and ministry of others, thus enabling them to be more effective in ministry.
_____ HOSPITALITY—ability to provide warm welcome, fellowship, and comfort to those in need.
_____ TEACHING—ability to communicate God’s truth in relevant ways so it can be understood and applied.
_____ EVANGELISM—ability to proclaim the Gospel in such a way that others accept the message and start a relationship with Jesus Christ.
_____ EXHORTATION—ability to urge Christians toward spiritual growth by using Scripture to challenge or comfort individuals.
_____ INTERCESSION—ability to regularly pray for extended periods of time for specific people and to see frequent, specific answers to their prayers.
_____ OTHER: What sorts of ways have you seen God use this person?
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
For those gifts marked with a Y (yes, definitely), explain why you think he or she has these gifts:
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
For those gifts marked with an M (maybe), explain why you think he or she might have these gifts:
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
OTHER OBSERVATIONS: __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
INSTRUCTIONS: The person who gave you this form is involved in our
church’s Connect Class with the purpose of discovering a more specific direction for service and ministry. Part of
that process involves evaluating areas of spiritual giftedness. The perspective and observations of others
are a major factor in identifying spiritual gifts.
Read each of the following gift definitions and mark the gifts as follows:
Y = Yes, this person definitely has this gift N = No, this person does not have this gift M = Maybe, the person might have this gift
If not sure, leave the space blank.
Evaluation of: ____________________________ Observations by: __________________________
Adapted with permission, Lon L. Garber, ©1993
Section 5: Observations of Others (to give to another person)
_____ LEADERSHIP—ability to set direction and to communicate that direction so people work together to accomplish its goals and purposes.
_____ PASTORING—ability to assume long-term personal responsibility for the spiritual welfare of a group.
_____ ADMINISTRATION—ability to understand goals and to devise and execute plans to accomplish them.
_____ PROPHECY—ability to speak the mind and counsel of God so as to exhort and comfort believers and to convince unbelievers of God’s truth.
_____ MERCY—ability to feel compassion for needy people and to relieve suffering so as to reflect Christ’s love.
_____ FAITH—ability to discern God’s will and purposes with confidence and to depend upon Him to accomplish great things.
_____ GIVING—ability to provide resources to expand ministry with the sense that it is God who has provided.
_____ KNOWLEDGE—ability to discover, accumulate, and clarify ideas and information in such a way as to perceive the facts as God sees them.
_____ WISDOM—ability to apply God’s truth to specific situations and people and to communicate clearly its application in their lives.
_____ DISCERNMENT—ability to know with assurance whether behavior alleged to be of God is of divine, human, or satanic origin.
_____ SERVICE—ability to demonstrate God’s love by identifying and meeting practical needs.
_____ HELPS—ability to invest time and abilities in the life and ministry of others, thus enabling them to be more effective in ministry.
_____ HOSPITALITY—ability to provide warm welcome, fellowship, and comfort to those in need.
_____ TEACHING—ability to communicate God’s truth in relevant ways so it can be understood and applied.
_____ EVANGELISM—ability to proclaim the Gospel in such a way that others accept the message and start a relationship with Jesus Christ.
_____ EXHORTATION—ability to urge Christians toward spiritual growth by using Scripture to challenge or comfort individuals.
_____ INTERCESSION—ability to regularly pray for extended periods of time for specific people and to see frequent, specific answers to their prayers.
_____ OTHER: What sorts of ways have you seen God use this person?
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
For those gifts marked with a Y (yes, definitely), explain why you think he or she has these gifts:
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
For those gifts marked with an M (maybe), explain why you think he or she might have these gifts:
__________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
OTHER OBSERVATIONS: __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________ __________________________________________
INSTRUCTIONS: The person who gave you this form is involved in our
church’s Connect Class with the purpose of discovering a more specific direction for service and ministry. Part of
that process involves evaluating areas of spiritual giftedness. The perspective and observations of others
are a major factor in identifying spiritual gifts.
Read each of the following gift definitions and mark the gifts as follows:
Y = Yes, this person definitely has this gift N = No, this person does not have this gift M = Maybe, the person might have this gift
If not sure, leave the space blank.
Evaluation of: ____________________________ Observations by: __________________________
Adapted with permission, Lon L. Garber, ©1993
Section 6: Summary
Section 1—PERSONAL INFLUENCES: Review your responses to past, present, and future influences and summarize the spiritual gifts that seem to be suggested by these influences:
Section 2—PERSONAL TRAITS: Note the number associated with the set of traits you selected and place a check in the corresponding summary area here.
Section 3—PERSONAL CONVICTIONS: What spiritual gifts suggest themselves from your answers on this page?
Section 4—PERSONAL EXPERIENCE: Transfer the summary gift information at the end of Section 4 to the corresponding entries in the summary section here:
Section 5—OBSERVATIONS OF OTHERS: Transfer the synthesis lines from this section to the summary section here:
SUMMARY: From the above information, I can definitely see repeated evidence to suggest the following spiritual gift or gifts:
a) ________________________________________________
b) _______________________________________________
c)________________________________________________
_____ 1) LEADERSHIP _____ 2) PASTORING _____ 3) ADMINISTRATION _____ 4) PROPHECY _____ 5) MERCY _____ 6) FAITH _____ 7) GIVING _____ 8) KNOWLEDGE _____ 9) WISDOM
a) ________________________________________________
b) _______________________________________________
c)________________________________________________
_____ 1) LEADERSHIP _____ 2) PASTORING _____ 3) ADMINISTRATION _____ 4) PROPHECY _____ 5) MERCY _____ 6) FAITH _____ 7) GIVING _____ 8) KNOWLEDGE _____ 9) WISDOM
Definitely: a) _______________________________________________
b) _______________________________________________
c)________________________________________________
Possibly:
a) _______________________________________________
b) _______________________________________________
c)________________________________________________
a) ________________________________________________
b) _______________________________________________
c)________________________________________________
INSTRUCTIONS: As a final step, transfer the information from the preceding sections to this Spiritual Gifts summary page.
_____ 10) DISCERNMENT _____ 11) SERVICE _____ 12) HELPS _____ 13) HOSPITALITY _____ 14) TEACHING _____ 15) EVANGELISM _____ 16) EXHORTATION _____ 17) INTERCESSION
_____ 10) DISCERNMENT _____ 11) SERVICE _____ 12) HELPS _____ 13) HOSPITALITY _____ 14) TEACHING _____ 15) EVANGELISM _____ 16) EXHORTATION _____ 17) INTERCESSION
The purpose of these questions is to reflect on what God has been doing in your life, and what themes appear to run through the different stages of it. The questions are open-ended and there is no ‘results page’; gaining forward-direction from these questions will largely be a matter of inference. Approach the questions prayerfully and ask God to bring patterns to mind. Remember that every one of these experiences is a picture of God’s providence, and part of his plan to conform you to the image of Christ.
You may find some of these questions difficult to answer. Take your time and answer thoughtfully. When unsure of an answer, leave it blank and return to it later. If you remain unsure, simply leave that response blank.
Overview
P A G E �6 9
Your Name: ___________________________________________________________
Date Completed: ________________________________________________________
Assignment #4: Life Experiences Inventory
LIVING EXPERIENCES:
1) Where have you lived? Check all that apply.
_____ Rural settings _____ Urban settings _____ Suburban settings _____ Foreign settings _____ International communities within the U.S. _____ Secluded/wilderness settings _____ Other: ___________________________________
2) Is there a particular setting in which you feel most ‘in your element’ or ‘belonging’? If so, which one? Describe your sense of connection to that setting.
3) Do you feel you are particularly effective in ministering in a specific location? Describe.
RELATIONAL EXPERIENCES
1) Name three people that you believe you have been effective in ministering to.
a) ___________________________________________ b) ___________________________________________ c) ___________________________________________
2) How did God use you in these three examples?
a)
b)
c)
3) What sorts of people tend to gravitate to you? Are there any common themes in the type of people God puts in your life? (Look broadly for themes: A specific age group? A common burden? A specific place in life?)
DEFINING EXPERIENCES:
1) List the three most significant ‘defining moments’ in your life before the age of 12. Provide a few details as to why each was important.
a)
b)
c)
2) List the three most significant ‘defining moments’ in your life between age 12 and 18. Provide a few details as to why each was important.
a)
b)
c)
3) One more time: This time list the three most significant ‘defining moments’ in your life as an adult. Provide a few details as to why each was important.
a)
b)
c)
4) Look for patterns. Are there common themes amongst these nine events? What specifics of those events might hold clues to God’s role in equipping you for ministry? (or how can you use these experiences for the purpose of ministry?)
5) In what areas or situations have you seen God’s comfort? How can you use this to comfort others? (recall 2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
6) What sorts of topics could keep you up talking late into the night?
7) What past ministry have you done that was exciting to you and personally fulfilling?
8) If you knew you couldn’t fail, what would you invest your in?
Do not read this until you have taken the Personality Inventory found on pages 39 to 45 of this manual!
MBTI Personality Type Descriptions
P A G E �7 5
OVERVIEW: These people are doers who get the job done. They analyze, decide, and set a plan of action. They find resources, organize, and follow through. They anticipate the details and take care of them. ESTJ’s follow up continually and are at their BEST in situations that require structure, action, and results.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 13%
LIFE STYLE: • Results-oriented and Responsible • They compartmentalize their lives
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Applied science • Rules, regulations • Practical subjects
Learning Preferences • Structured learning environments • Traditional classroom setting • Interactive learning opportunities • Activities rather than conceptual studies • Schedules, Agendas, Deadlines • Workbooks using a question/answer format
LABORING STYLE: ADMINISTRATOR
• Plays by the rules; expects others to do same Work Preferences
• Task oriented • Likes hard-working co-workers
Special Abilities • Direct and decisive • Organized and efficient • Systematic • Follows through consistently
Motivated by • Rewards closely tied to performance
Typical Professions • Production supervisors • Administrators • Surgeons • Law enforcement personnel
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Administrator • “The Buck Stops Here” mentality
Leadership Talents • Take-charge attitude • Direct and to-the-point
Leadership Tools • Organization • Follow-through
Other • Eliminates mistakes
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Stability and steadfastness Offers to others
• Security and loyalty Needs from others
• Security and loyalty
DRESSING STYLE: • ESTJ’s buy durable clothes with a classic look that
they can wear for years. • They wear subdued colors according to a prescribed
color plan. • They take methodical care of their clothes.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Being too blunt, direct, and insensitive to people’s
feelings when trying to get job done. • Being so focused on completing the project, you do
not see the need to make adjustments. • Being intolerant of inconsistency and inefficiency in
others (which you view as incompetence).
FAMOUS ESTJ’s: • John D. Rockefeller (industrialist/philanthropist) • Harry Truman (American president) • George W. Bush (American president) • Rev. Billy Graham (evangelist/writer) • Sam Walton (Wal-Mart founder)
ESTJ’s AT STONEBRIDGE: • Dave Jackson (Deacon) • Jeff Levinson (Ruling Elder) • Rick Odenbeck (Deacon/Property Superintendent) • Peter Scheidt (Pastoral Intern) • Kathryn Truden
P A G E �7 7
ESTJ “The Buck Stops Here”
OVERVIEW: These people are systematic, painstaking, thorough, and hardworking. They are dependable. They do their duty and honor their commitments. They are careful about facts and details. They prefer maintaining the status quo. They are serious, sincere, and cautious. ISTJ’s have the discipline to do what should be done rather than what comes naturally. They are at their BEST when they are getting things to the right place at the right time.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 6%
LIFE STYLE: • Neat, orderly, and simple • Careful, composed, practical • Slow and steady progress on a clear course
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Practical and useful subjects • Applied science
Learning Preferences • Precise and accurate materials • Precise and accurate directions • Time to reflect and think • Application over theory • Step-by-step building process • Sessions that start and end on time
LABORING STYLE: TRUSTEES
• Get the job done thoroughly and on time. Work Environment
• Work must be productive and hands-on. Special Abilities
• Dedication, duty always comes before pleasure (and often crowds it out)
Motivated by • Work that makes sense to them • Deadlines
Typical Professions: • Accountants • Bankers • Bureaucrats • Dentists • Auditors • Military
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Traditionalists, Stabilizers Leadership Talents
• Reliability, consistency, organization Leadership Tools
• Facts • Past experience • Sense of duty • Accuracy
Other • They do not like to delegate
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Commitment, honor, faithfulness Offers to others
• Stability and security (but not frequently spoken) Needs from others
• Constant stroking, appreciation
DRESSING STYLE: • ISTJ’s buy durable clothes with a classic look that they
can wear for years. • They wear subdued colors according to a prescribed
color plan. • They take methodical care of their clothes.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Becoming so immersed in details and short-term
realities that you lose sight of the big picture. • Maintaining status quo when you should be improving
it. • Being insensitive to co-workers and friends
FAMOUS ISTJ’S: • George Washington (American President) • Elizabeth II (Queen of England) • Warren Buffett (businessman & investor) • Jackie Joyner-Kersee (athlete) • Evander Holyfield (boxer)
ISTJ’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Tim Mascara (Pastor of Student Ministries) • Becky Vroon (Director of Programming) • Gary Gross • Cynthia Mitchell
P A G E �7 8
ISTJ “It’s the Right Thing to Do”
OVERVIEW: These people are outgoing, friendly people who go out of their way to make people feel included. They are especially energized by their interactions with people and tend to idealize the positive side of those they know. Harmony, traditions, and fond memories are very important to them. ESFJ’s are at their BEST when organizing people to get a job done.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 13%
LIFE STYLE: • Volunteers who take their roles very seriously • Value relationships and commitment highly • Natural hosts and hostesses
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to learn
• Subjects with practical/personal applications Learning Preferences
• Structured learning environments • Teachers they like and can relate to • Harmonious learning environment • Experiential learning in a group setting
LABORING STYLE: COACHES
• Conscientious, values-oriented, cooperative, significant contributors
Work Environment • Need to be close to the work and the people who
help them do it. • Need (and help produce) a warm and friendly
atmosphere Work Preferences
• Prefer to work with others • Want to be organized and informed (who, what,
when, where, how) Special Abilities
• Sensitive to people more than productivity Motivated by
• Teamwork: things done together Typical Professions
• Sales • Clergy and social work • Teaching and coaching • Homemakers
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Team leader Leadership Talents
• Sensitivity to people • Finding value in other people’s opinions
Leadership Tools • Use coaching style to encourage performance and
harmony
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Warmth and commitment Offers to others
• Tangible expression of love Needs from others
• Sensitivity, awareness, appreciation
DRESSING STYLE: • ESFJ’s buy durable clothes with a classic look that they
can wear for years. • They wear subdued colors according to a prescribed
color plan. • They take methodical care of their clothes.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Trying to harmonize problems away rather than facing
them squarely • Putting others’ needs ahead of your own • Avoiding giving corrective feedback to others • Rejecting corrective feedback from others • Getting so detailed you forget the big picture
FAMOUS ESFJ’S: • Steve Spurrier (football coach) • William McKinley (American president) • Bill Clinton (American president) • Sally Field (actress) • Jack Benny (comedian/actor)
ESFJ’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Shannon Lehmer (Preschool assistant director) • Tracy Peck • Sue Ramsey • Lynne Cuttino • Mary Jones
P A G E �7 9
ESFJ “Just Make Yourself Feel at Home”
OVERVIEW: These people work quietly behind the scenes in service to others. They are neat, easy-going, and maintain a high sense of duty. They provide practical help to organizations they serve because of their sense of obligation and commitment to humanity. ISFJ’s are at their BEST quietly providing assistance and making sure things are in proper order.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 6%
LIFE STYLE: • Quiet, reserved, and gentle • Steady, dependable, and dutiful • Obedient, neat, and tidy • Express caring in orderly, well regulated ways • At times, let others take advantage of them
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Practical subjects Learning Preferences
• Assignments showing their hard work • Learning by doing • Dislike debates (confrontation makes them nervous)
LABORING STYLE: HARD WORKER
• Finds work fun, rewarding, and fulfilling • Lives to work and serve others
Special Abilities • Stamina
Work Preferences • Prefers a work area with privacy and needs it to be
productive • Prefers an orderly work environment where
everything has its place • Prefers working with tangible objects
Motivated by • An opportunity to serve others
Typical Professions • Nurses • Librarians • Preschool workers • Health technicians
LEADING STYLE: Leadership style
• Faithful Servant, Quiet Facilitator Leadership Talents
• Conscientiousness • Follow-Through • Dependability
Leadership Tools • Consistency and dedication
Other • Reluctant leader; leads only out of sense of duty • Quietly facilitates the work of others
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Security and commitment Offers to others
• Sacrificial giving, stability, loyalty Needs from others
• Appreciation for their giving attitude
DRESSING STYLE: • ISFJ’s buy durable clothes with a classic look that they
can wear for years. • They wear subdued colors according to a prescribed
color plan. • They take methodical care of their clothes.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Paying too much attention to the present while ignoring
the future • Being too inflexible • Finding it difficult to relax • Taking Planning to the point of obsession • Feeling unappreciated by others
FAMOUS ISFJ’S: • Louisa May Alcott (novelist) • Michael Jordan (athlete) • Alfred Lord Tennyson (poet) • Robert E. Lee (military general) • Barbara Bush (First Lady)
ISFJ’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Jamison Williams • Kelly Dockery • Jared Malament • Keri Tallerico
P A G E �8 0
ISFJ “I’m Ready Whenever Duty Calls”
OVERVIEW: These people are action-oriented, pragmatic, outgoing, and realistic. They are lively, entertaining, and fun to be with. At the same time, they are blunt and direct. Call on them when resourcefulness is needed. ESTP’s are at their BEST in situations requiring orientation to the present with a direct, no-nonsense, pragmatic approach.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 13%
LIFE STYLE: • Zestful and full of life • Like high-risk, high-reward situations • Opportunistic in finding loopholes • Opportunistic in finding special niches
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to learn
• Subjects of personal interest to them Learning Preferences
• Realistic expectations • Clear explanations • Observational learning (quick payback) • Hands-on experience • Practical application; no theory
LABORING STYLE: PROMOTERS
• They make things happen quickly • They organize through improvisation • Will beg forgiveness later rather than get prior
permission (it takes too long) Work Environment
• Need flexible environment that is responsive to momentary needs
• Can work in chaos and still produce excellent product
Special Abilities • They have the initiative and ability to meet
immediate needs Motivated by
• Risk and crisis Typical Professions
• Self-employed businesspeople • Entrepreneurs (high-risk ventures) • Politicians • Sales/marketing
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Promoter, Negotiator, Entrepreneur Leadership Talents
• See immediate cause • Provide immediate solution
Leadership Tools • Charm, persuasion, assertiveness
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Someone to have fun with Offers to others
• Charm, excitement, and spontaneity Needs from others
• Excitement, companionship
DRESSING STYLE: • ESTP’s dress for impact and recognition (designer
labels). • They prefer casual, action-oriented clothes (allowing
freedom of movement). • They wear bold colors and are not afraid to be daring at
times (makes a fashion statement).
WATCH OUT FOR: • Relying too heavily on improvisation • Forgetting to follow-through • Taking on too much work and responsibility • Being too direct, too blunt, and too insensitive
FAMOUS ESTP’S: • Ernest Hemingway (writer) • Jack Nicholson (actor) • Donald Trump (businessman/TV personality) • Lucille Ball (actress) • John Madden (sports commentator)
ESTP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Scott Klap
P A G E �8 1
ESTP “That’ll Be NO Problem”
OVERVIEW: These people are expedient, realistic and adventuresome. They are well aware of their environment and able to respond quickly to the actual facts, making sure the odds are in their favor. These people are excellent troubleshooters who calmly save the day. ISTP’s are at their BEST in situations that require immediate attention. They are free-wheelers who do not like to be tied down by tight rules, structures, and schedules. They are impulsive.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 7%
LIFE STYLE: • Opportunistic • Pragmatic • Gamblers (play each hand as it is dealt) • Thrive on excitement
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Logic-based, problem-solving subjects • Subjects that are relevant
Learning Preferences • Alone and at their own rate • Hands-on observation and practice • No teacher unless demonstrating
LABORING STYLE: ARTISANS
• They are natural craftspeople • They can see easiest and fastest way to get the job
done Work Preferences
• Bypass rules whenever the rules seem to get in the way.
Special Abilities • Naturally drawn to tools • Can hold large amounts of useful technical data
Motivated by • Sticky problems others can’t figure out
Typical Professions • Construction • Mechanics and Firefighters • Paramedics • Farmers • Technicians
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• “I’ll Just Show Them How it’s Done” Leadership Talents
• Not natural leaders Leadership Tools
• Pertinent facts • Personal example
Other • Loose management style • Requires and provides minimal supervision
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Being responsive, yet realistic Offers to others
• Paying attention to small details Needs from others
• Freedom to pursue hobbies and interests
DRESSING STYLE: • ISTP’s dress for impact and recognition (designer
labels). • They prefer casual, action-oriented clothes (allowing
freedom of movement). • They wear bold colors and are not afraid to be daring at
times (makes a fashion statement).
WATCH OUT FOR: • Taking too many shortcuts; jumping to new task
without completing first one • Being too short-term in your thinking • Keeping too much to yourself, especially feelings • Being insensitive to others • Being too indecisive
FAMOUS ISTP’S: • Tom Cruise (actor) • Keith Richards (guitarist) • Katharine Hepburn (actress) • Bruce Lee (martial artist) • Chuck Yeager (U.S. Air Force Officer)
ISTP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Mike Harris • Dan Huthmacher • Rick Sorrell
P A G E �8 2
ISTP “I See the Problem”
OVERVIEW: These people are Performers. They are warm, friendly, outgoing, fun-loving, and charming. They are great fun to be around. They meet people easily and seek people out. They do not like to be alone. They are the life of the party. ESFP’s are at their BEST when they can realistically meet human needs in a fun and lively way.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 13%
LIFE STYLE: • Optimistic: appear to lead a charmed existence • Bring love and life and a smile to all situations
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Subjects that are fun Learning Preferences
• Personal interaction as part of process • Like to study in groups • Forming personal relationship with teachers • Dislike intellectualism and arguments
LABORING STYLE: PERFORMERS
• Full of excitement and energy Special Abilities
• They know how to motivate people Work Environment
• They like to work in teams with adaptable people • They enjoy an attractive work setting
Motivated by • Excitement, action, harmony
Typical Professions • Sales and PR • Entertaining • Nursing • Child-care • Elementary teacher
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Entertainer, Performer, Persuader Leadership Talents
• Adaptability • Ability to make things happen through motivation
Leadership Tools • Team Spirit • Sense of goodwill • Personal ownership • Fun and humor
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Enjoyment of one another Offers to others
• Happiness, joy, warmth, generosity Needs from others
• Approval • Intimacy
DRESSING STYLE: • ESFP’S dress for impact and recognition (designer
labels). • They prefer casual, action-oriented clothes (allowing
freedom of movement). • They wear bold colors and are not afraid to be daring at
times (makes a fashion statement).
WATCH OUT FOR: • Giving in to temptations and impulses • Spending too much time socializing, not enough
working • Being too spontaneous, leaving too many things
undone • Being too subjective and optimistic at times • Being too impulsive and failing to plan ahead
FAMOUS ESFP’S: • Ronald Reagan (American president) • Pablo Picasso (artist) • Marilyn Monroe (actress/model) • Elvis Presley (singer/actor) • Kyle Petty (NASCAR driver)
ESFP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Heather Lopane • Larry Shouse • Josh Baker • Kathy Lancashire
P A G E �8 3
ESFP “You Only Go Around Once in Life”
OVERVIEW: These people are gentle, compassionate, open, and flexible. They are considerate of others and do not force their own opinions on others. They avoid disagreements and actively seek harmony. They enjoy life’s precious moments and often add a touch of beauty to their environment. ISFP’s are at their BEST when they are ensuring others’ well-being.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 5%
LIFE STYLE: • Enjoying friends/family; spending quality time with
both • Like physical action • Like personal interaction • Have little or no desire to impress others or to impose
their will on them • Tend to have a special love of nature, beauty, and
animals
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Practical, relevant subjects that relate to helping/knowing about people
Learning Preferences • Hands-on experience • Dislike structured, institutional learning • Not usually interested in speaking or writing projects
LABORING STYLE: ARTISTS
• They help bring order in personal and artistic ways Work Environment
• Need a cooperative work environment • They bring joy and harmony to their work
environment • Like to work with people but need some personal
space Work Preferences
• Assignments relating to people’s needs • Like to work with their hands
Motivated by • A sense of harmony and teamwork
Typical Professions • Composers, artists, dancers, nurses, storekeepers
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Artistic expression Leadership Tools
• Praise, encouragement, gentle persuasion Other
• They do not seek leadership roles • They motivate through a sense of personal loyalty
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Devotion, loyalty, care, consideration, humor Offers to others
• Nourishment, attention, affection Needs from others
• They have difficult time expressing their own needs
DRESSING STYLE: • ISFP’s dress for impact and recognition (designer
labels). • They prefer casual, action-oriented clothes (allowing
freedom of movement). • They wear bold colors and are not afraid to be daring at
times (makes a fashion statement).
WATCH OUT FOR: • Neglecting their own personal needs and failing to ask
for help when they need it. • Avoiding helpful conflict, taking things too personally,
and being easily hurt as a result. • Being too gullible, trusting, and too critical of yourself.
FAMOUS ISFP’S: • Ulysses S. Grant (General, American president) • Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (composer) • Steven Speilberg (movie director) • John Travolta (actor) • Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (First Lady)
ISFP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Ingrid Ward (Preschool Director) • Brent Jones (Director of Service and Outreach) • Annika Driessen
P A G E �8 4
ISFP “I Like to Keep my Mouth Shut and My Ears Open”
OVERVIEW: These people are commanders. They take charge quickly and take a very direct approach to problem solving. In the midst of a confusing situation, they cast aside the peripheral issues and cut straight through to the heart of the matter. They have the vision to see the future as if it had already happened, and they naturally design strategies to make their visions become reality. ENTJ’s are at their BEST when they are using analytical and strategic thinking.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 5%
LIFE STYLE: • Purpose-driven and goal-oriented • Organize their own life strategically • Lead active and diverse lives • Always know exactly where they are headed
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Subjects that will impact their future Learning Preferences
• Problem-solving, ie. Case studies • Debates to sharpen conceptual understanding • Organized Instruction: charts, outlines, diagrams,
etc.
LABORING STYLE: COMMANDERS
• Become totally involved in their work Work Focus
• Curious about new concepts and ideas • Receive identity from accomplishments
Work Environment • Like results-oriented situations with responsibility
and independence • Take charge of any work environment
Work Preferences • Thinking long-term; they will sacrifice the short-
term for the long-term Motivated by
• Efficiency, effectiveness, goals, results Typical Professions
• Executives and managers • Lawyers • Systems analysts • Scientists
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Commander (impossible NOT to lead) Leadership Talents
• Vision • High energy • Decisiveness • Tough-mindedness • Logic
Leadership Tools • Oral and written communication • Thought-provoking Questions • Analysis
LOVING STYLE: Love is
• Contextual (an extension of their vision and often secondary to it)
Offers to others • Independence, benefits of hard-work,
industriousness Needs from others
• Independence
DRESSING STYLE: • For ENTJ’s, clothes are not a big priority; chooses
clothes for comfort and utility. • They consider price, durability and keep clothes until
they wear out. • They may wear whatever is easiest to get to.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Being too quick to decide a matter. • Seeing practical considerations as being threats to long-
term goals. • Letting emotions take control of personality, especially
when they feel their competence is being called into question.
• Overlooking other people’s needs and feelings since they see the goal so clearly.
FAMOUS ENTJ’S: • Franklin D. Roosevelt (American president) • Harrison Ford (actor) • Margaret Thatcher (British Prime Minister) • Newt Gingrich (politician) • David Letterman (talk show host)
ENTJ’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Rob Bansek (Ruling Elder) • Dean Williams (Ruling Elder) • Russell Justice
P A G E �8 5
ENTJ “Follow Me, I’ll Lead the Way”
OVERVIEW: These people are strong individualists and innovative thinkers. They live to build and improve systems and theoretical models. They view life as a giant puzzle to be solved. INTJ’s are at their BEST when they are developing ideas, theories, and principles on their own.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 1%
LIFE STYLE: • They set a course and stick to it • Confident of their opinions and ideas • May appear distant or preoccupied to others
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Theoretical and challenging subjects Learning Preferences
• Seek out challenging teachers and creative learning experiences
• learning through reading—are avid readers • do well in school due to their natural thirst for
knowledge
LABORING STYLE: INNOVATORS
• Go to great lengths to see their ideas become realities
• See work as a challenge, not as work Work Focus
• Relentless pursuit of a new goal or idea • They focus their efforts on the future
Work Preferences • They prefer working by themselves in a methodical,
organized manner • They prefer work that involves designing strategies
and visions Special Abilities
• Problems stimulate their innovation Motivated by
• Goals and new ideas; they do not need much recognition—a job well done is its own reward.
Typical Professions • Lawyers • Scientists and Engineers • Systems analysts • Professors
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Build a Model, System, Concept, or Strategy for others to follow
Leadership Talents • Imagination and vision • Tough-mindedness • Creativity • Drive
Leadership Tools • Models, Systems
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Sharing a Vision Offers to others
• Loyalty Needs from others
• Vitality and zest in relationships
DRESSING STYLE: • For INTJ’s, clothes are not a big priority; chooses
clothes for comfort and utility. • They consider price, durability and keep clothes until
they wear out. • They may wear whatever is easiest to get to.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Being too theoretical; not practical enough. • Being insensitive to others’ feelings. • Being too critical of those who don’t see/share your
vision. • Being too obsessed with unimportant details.
FAMOUS INTJ’S: • Dwight D. Eisenhower (American president) • C.S. Lewis (author/apologist) • Jane Austen (author) • Lance Armstrong (cyclist) • Sir Isaac Newton (astronomer)
INTJ’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Rick Harper (Senior Pastor) • Andrew Shepard (Deacon) • Debbie Robinson • Jennifer Karlewicz
P A G E �8 6
INTJ “Everything Has Room for Improvement”
OVERVIEW: These people are charismatic leaders who know the way and expect that others will naturally follow them. Their sensitivity to peoples’ feelings makes them effective communicators who know how to “reach people.” ENFJ’s are at their BEST when they are facilitating sensitive situations.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 5%
LIFE STYLE: • Dedicated: loyal, committed, responsible, and socially
oriented. • Natural Speakers: very expressive, articulate, and like
to speak extemporaneously. • Humorous: natural wit; quick sense of humor.
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn:
• Liberal arts subjects relating to people Learning Preferences
• Learning independently through imitation • They like to read on their own • Like to study theoretical topics and ideas
LABORING STYLE: TEAM BUILDERS
• They bring a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect to the job.
Work Focus • Organizational ideals for how people are treated
(very values conscious). Work Environment
• Need settled, orderly environment, but not dull or static.
Work Preferences • Work that directly benefits others
Special Abilities • Excellent trainers and people developers • Seeing value in other people’s opinions
Motivated by • Ideas relating to people
Typical Professions • Teachers • Actors and entertainers • Clergy • Artists • Writers • Consultants
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Facilitator; avoids conflict unless it is needed to benefit others.
Leadership Talents • Values clarification • Able to inspire change • Personable, likeable
Leadership Tools • Close-knit relationships • “Win-one-for-the-Gipper” persuasion
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Flowers, poetry, candlelight, romance Offers to others
• Idealistic view of love • Warmth • Acceptance
Needs from others • Happy, affirming relationships
DRESSING STYLE: • ENFJ’s have a flair for combining styles, textures, and
colors. • Trendsetters; they enjoy creating a “unique look” (a
personal fashion statement). • They like soft lines and colors.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Being too loyal to others (even when loyalty is not
called for) • Avoiding conflict for too long rather than keeping short
relational accounts • Ignoring task requirements in favor of relationship • Taking criticism too personally
FAMOUS ENFJ’S: • Elizabeth Dole (NC Senator) • Peyton Manning (NFL quarterback) • Martin Luther King, Jr. (minister/civil rights leader) • Diane Sawyer (journalist) • Johnny Depp (actor)
ENFJ’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Doug Falls (Associate Pastor) • Tiffany Griggs (Pastoral Administrative Assistant) • Bill Robinson (Ruling elder) • Jim Cuttino
P A G E �8 7
ENFJ “I Know Just How You Feel”
OVERVIEW: These people are Idealists who can be stubbornly committed to a cause. INFJ’s are dreamers whose genius, caring, and concern can be inspiring to others. They have a unique ability for building a vision for a better and brighter tomorrow. They are possibility thinkers. INFJ’s seem to have an intuitive sense of their responsibility to serve humanity in an orderly yet demanding way. They are at their BEST when concentrating on new ideas and possibilities that will make life better for others.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 1%
LIFE STYLE: • Quiet strength, intense concern • They live life knowing how their life’s work will help
others • They focus their attention more on ideas and ideals than
other specific individuals
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Almost anything, but especially theoretical, conceptual material.
Learning Preferences • Need time to reflect on learning • Love to do research
LABORING STYLE: DREAMERS
• Seek out work that supports their ideals • They are very loyal to their causes
Work Focus • Focus on big ideas; may make them seem
unorganized in small details of life Work Environment
• Surround themselves with people who want to make life better
• They need to spend much time alone Typical Professions
• Physicians • Psychiatrists • Clergy • Authors • English/art/drama teachers
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Quiet, persistent effort toward long-range goals Leadership Talents
• Vision • Inspiration, motivation • Facilitation • Creativity
Leadership Tools • Communication, both written and oral
Other • Champions of serious causes • Slow to compliment others
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Deep sense of commitment to idealism Offers to others
• Intimacy, intensity, and openness Needs from others
• Caring, intimacy, and affection
DRESSING STYLE: • INFJ’s have a flair for combining styles, textures, and
colors. • Trendsetters; they enjoy creating a “unique look” (a
personal fashion statement). • They like soft lines and colors.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Allowing idealism to overshadow reality • Being too private and unassertive • Being too nice (in an effort not to be critical) • Focusing too much time on unimportant details
FAMOUS INFJ’S: • Geoffrey Chaucer (poet) • Oprah Winfrey (talk show host) • Mel Gibson (actor/filmmaker) • Nathanael Hawthorne (novelist) • Fanny Crosby (hymn writer)
INFJ’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Dave Zeltner (Worship Director) • Ruthanne Burch (Community Administrator) • Eric Zufall
P A G E �8 8
INFJ “Someday You’ll See the Light”
OVERVIEW: These people are adventurous in that they love to face new challenges. They overcome these challenges with adaptability, improvisation, and innovation. They embrace rather than resist change. They are typical entrepreneurs and risk-takers. ENTP’s are at their BEST in changing circumstances where they can develop innovative ideas and strategies and can improvise in the execution of those strategies.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 5%
LIFE STYLE: • Opportunistic—they see potential quickly and are
willing to take risks • Enterprising—flexible, outspoken, and strategic • Competitive—can play one-upmanship
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Subjects rich in theory Learning Preferences
• Concepts rather than facts • Like idea exchanges, debates, point/counterpoint to
sharpen ideas • Like competitive learning • Infectious enthusiasm for learning
LABORING STYLE: INVENTORS
• They are very resourceful; they are good “obstacle overcomers.”
• They are full of fresh, new ideas with the initiative to get it started.
Work Preferences • Design rather than implementation
Special Abilities • Contribute an innovative, enterprising, versatile
approach • Organized, but in their own way; they may seem
unorganized to others. Motivated by
• New Challenges Typical Professions
• Photographers • Sales/Marketing people • Journalists • Systems analysts
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Lead by example; explain the big picture and assume others will follow
Leadership Talents • Logic • Good people perception • Imagination • Rationality
Leadership Tools • Freedom • Independence • Initiative
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• “A good fit” Offers to others
• Adventure and freshness Needs from others
• Independence and freedom
DRESSING STYLE: • For ENTP’s, clothes are not a big priority; chooses
clothes for comfort and utility. • They consider price, durability, and keep clothes until
they wear out. • They may wear whatever is easiest to get to.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Overlooking your own personal flaws • Being too convinced of your own ideas. • Focusing too much attention on the concept and not
enough on the execution. • Rebelling against standard procedures.
FAMOUS ENTP’S: • Walt Disney (filmmaker/entrepreneur) • Theodore ‘Teddy’ Roosevelt (American president) • Thomas Edison (inventor) • Celine Dion (singer) • Tom Hanks (actor)
ENTP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Matt Harris (High School Director) • Pushpa Gross • Marty DiGiacomo
P A G E �8 9
ENTP “Life is One Exciting Challenge After Another”
OVERVIEW: These people are natural philosophers and scientists in search of foundational truths and underlying principles. They examine the effects but only as a means to point them to the causes. INTP’s constantly ask WHY and WHY NOT. Truth must be validated with logic and experience. They are at their BEST in building conceptual models and developing complex ideas.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 1%
LIFE STYLE: • Quiet, yet intense • Can appear rebellious; they question everything • Detached, reserved, and absent-minded • Deep and complex thinkers
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Concepts/ideas • Logical studies
Learning Preferences • Projects requiring in-depth analysis • Theoretical learning over application • Professional learners—life is a classroom
LABORING STYLE: ARCHITECTS
• They contribute a logical, systems-building approach to work
Work Environment • Like to work independently of others • Cluttered work space (research materials) • Hate to throw anything away
Work Preferences • Don’t like to implement their own plans
Special Abilities • Very precise in their approach to work • Problem solvers when it doesn’t require too much
interaction with people Motivated by
• Ideas rather than people or applications • People & reality only serve to mess up the best ideas
Typical Professions • Professors • Computer Programmers • Philosophers • Scientists and Researchers
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Lead with logic • Not good leaders of people • Lead only if there is a problem to solve
Leadership Talents • Analysis, logical thought process
Leadership Tools • Expertise, research, intellect
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Structured and private (internal); not great lovers in the classic sense
Offers to others • Stability, continuity
Needs from others • Respect for their intellect, personal space
DRESSING STYLE: • For INTP’s, clothes are not a big priority; chooses
clothes for comfort and utility. • They consider price, durability, and keep clothes until
they wear out. • They may wear whatever is easiest to get to.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Spending too much time focusing on other people’s
imperfections and inconsistencies. • Being too critical of other people’s plans and ideas (as
well as your own). • Being too insensitive to feelings of others, and isolating
yourself from the real world.
FAMOUS INTP’S: • Abraham Lincoln (American president) • Charles Darwin (English naturalist) • René Descartes (French philosopher) • Albert Einstein (German physicist) • Meryl Streep (actress)
INTP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Mike Dockery (ruling elder) • Jeff Raquet (UNCC professor)
P A G E �9 0
INTP “That’s Not Necessarily So”
OVERVIEW: These people view life as an exciting adventure. They can’t wait to see what’s around the next corner. ENFP’s are dynamic, enthusiastic, and outgoing. They find something significant about every situation. They find life is for the living, and they make sure they enjoy it all. ENFP’s are at their BEST in changing situations requiring creativity and charisma.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 5%
LIFE STYLE: • Zestful—and fun to be with • Curious—and young at heart • Spontaneous—always ready for a new adventure
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Open-ended studies that allow for many possible solutions to a problem
Learning Preferences • Variety in learning activities • Unstructured learning process • Exploring new ideas in a group setting
LABORING STYLE: GOOD NEWS
• Perpetual bearers of good news Work Environment
• They enjoy color in their work environment Work Preferences
• They like to surround themselves with a group of imaginative people
• They prefer a collegiate, participative decision-making process
Special Abilities • They are confident in their abilities even without
prior experience • Especially effective getting new projects started • They are perceptive people watchers
Motivated by • New experiences
Typical Professions • Counselors • Teachers • Clergy • Writers • Artists/entertainers • Psychologists
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Cheerleader Leadership Talents
• Energy • Enthusiasm • Imagination
Leadership Tools • Brainstorming • Endorsements of respected people
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Living Offers to others
• Unconditional acceptance, excitement, romance Needs from others
• Reality check from time-to-time
DRESSING STYLE: • ENFP’s have a flair for combing styles, textures, and
colors. • Trendsetters; they enjoy creating a “unique look” (a
personal fashion statement). • They like soft lines and colors.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Losing focus as you try to sample everything • Ignoring reality in your search for adventure • Overextending yourself
FAMOUS ENFP’S: • Mark Twain (writer) • Theodor ‘Dr. Seuss’ Geisel (children’s author) • Robin Williams (actor/comedian) • Sandra Bullock (actress) • Bob Dylan (musician)
ENFP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Kevin Burrell (Assistant Pastor) • Kim Kirk (Director of Children’s Ministry) • Bev Burrell • Penny Oliver • Ginny Yardley
P A G E �9 1
ENFP “Let’s Live Life to Its Fullest”
OVERVIEW: These people are idealistic and usually devote themselves to one cause at a time. Honor is extremely important. They are usually quiet, gentle, and hard to get to know. But when they open up to friends, they are funny and creative. INFP’s are at their BEST when doing anything they truly believe in.
PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION: 1%
LIFE STYLE: • They feel themselves to be unique and therefore resist
being labeled. • They will occasionally do something outrageous to re-
assert their special identity. • Perfectionistic, but only as it relates to their sense of the
ideal. • Reserved and shy until they get to know you. Then they
become witty and funny.
LEARNING STYLE: Drawn to Learn
• Anything of interest, and they have broad areas of interest.
Learning Preferences • Flexible learning environment • Research that promotes intellectual growth • Creativity more than precision
LABORING STYLE: CRUSADER
• Passionate convictions about a cause • Creative and seemingly disorganized in organizing
tools and details • Keep a picture perspective on their work
Work Environment • Need quiet work area; time to work alone • Surround themselves with people as committed to
the ideal as they are Work Preferences
• They need to find meaning in their jobs • They dislike interruptions
Typical Professions • Ministers and missionaries • Professors • Psychologists • Social workers • Artists
LEADING STYLE: Leadership Style
• Subtle, gentle nudging Leadership Talents
• Facilitation • Sense of timing • Adaptability • Virtue • Commitment
Leadership Tools • Appeal to a sense of values, appreciation,
encouragement
LOVING STYLE: Love means
• Deep commitment to idealism Offers to others
• Romance, warmth, and intimacy Needs from others
• To be drawn out
DRESSING STYLE: • INFP’s have a flair for combing styles, textures, and
colors. • Trendsetters; they enjoy creating a “unique look” (a
personal fashion statement). • They like soft lines and colors.
WATCH OUT FOR: • Being so idealistic and stubborn that you fail to see
other perspectives • Being out of touch with reality • Burdening yourself with a sense of inadequacy by
focusing too much on the gap between your ideals and your actual accomplishments
FAMOUS INFP’S: • William Shakespeare (poet/playwright) • J.R.R. Tolkien (author) • Princess Diana (Princess of Wales) • James Taylor (musician) • Annie Dillard (author)
INFP’S AT STONEBRIDGE: • Kevin Bailey • Pam Crabb • Stefanie Ward • Leigh Williams
P A G E �9 2
INFP “I Love to Serve People”
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