One of the first things that church planters want to do is name the church.  It’s natural, but not missional.  Naming the church plant at the very beginning of the process may be a mistake.  Let me explain.

1.  Cultural Analysis. Church planting is missionary work.  Many are planting in cultures that are familiar, but culture is a complex thing.  While you may think American suburbia is the same wherever you go, it’s not.  And certainly no two cities are exactly alike.  Many locales today have a plurality of culture existing in the same place.  So the first thing a church planter should do is become a student of their target community.  Learn the rhythms of the community.  Ask the question, what is good news for this community?  This takes much more than just a demographics report.  You have to breathe the same air, eat in the same places and hang in the same third places.  You have to get to know people, interview community leaders and get a sense from the average joe what makes your community tick.  Will Mancini calls this the Local Predicament, in his book Church Unique.  Spend at least a month doing this before you make any conclusions.  You can accomplish other things at the same time, but don’t short change this.

2.  Team Analysis.  Once you understand the community, it’s time to understand your team.  At this point it may just be you.  Determine your unique calling and gifting.  What are you most passionate about?  Where the cultural analysis and the team analysis intercept you will find your missional sweet spot and where as a church you should spend the most time and effort.

3.  Philosophy of Ministry. Once you understand your missional sweet spot.  It’s time to begin developing your philosophy of ministry.  These are the beliefs, values, mission, and measurements of discipleship that provide the boundaries of you vision.

The naming of the church will naturally flow out of the philosophy of ministry.  At this point it will be culturally relevant and will also encapsulate the vision of the church.  So don’t rush to name the church plant.  Take the time to be a missionary first.