Author ORCID
Keywords
Research Methods, Experiments, Church, Experimental Designs, Ministry
Abstract
Experiments, with their ability to establish causal relationships (unlike correlational studies), are an under-utilized research tool in church-based research. This article examines experimental designs, including pre-experiments, true experiments, and quasi-experiments, and their relevance to church contexts. The challenges of random assignment, ethical considerations, and threats to validity, such as history, maturation, and selection effects, are real, but not insurmountable. There are practical limitations to experiments in church settings, but previously conducted experiments focusing on Bible reading, church attendance, and leadership development initiatives demonstrate their feasibility. The value of experimental methodologies for understanding church-related phenomena, improving ministry effectiveness, fostering spiritual growth, and ultimately contributing to fulfilling the Great Commission should not be underestimated.
Recommended Citation
Dunaetz, D. R. (2025). Experiments in Church-Based Research. Great Commission Research Journal, 17(2), 9-22. Retrieved from https://place.asburyseminary.edu/gcrj/vol17/iss2/2
Included in
Christianity Commons, Missions and World Christianity Commons, Practical Theology Commons, Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion Commons
