Theo-futures research is a methodological approach developed within the Futuring Hub. It incorporates the God-given human ability to consider the consequences of present actions on the future and places it within a practical theological perspective. Theo-futures research represents an interdisciplinary practical theological research approach which seeks to explore the intersection of Christian beliefs, values, and practices with evolving trends and future possibilities. Rooted in discernment, theological reflection, and faithful imagination, theo-futures research cultivates practical wisdom and futures-oriented perspectives, inspiring transformative action as Christian leaders serve the mission of God in the church and the world. 

The primary focus of theo-futures research is to consider and reflect upon possible, probable, or potential futures of the church. It involves analyzing and considering weak signals, emerging considerations, and current trends happening within society broadly, and then prayerfully discerning what these insights could mean for the future church. Grounded in humility and a sense of wonder, theo-futures research seeks to peek over the horizon and discover practical future insights that may be relevant to the church and its mission. Just as Moses sent scouts into the Promised Land, futures thinking can help Christian leaders to identify possible futures of the church and even discern how to shape those futures. 

Theo-futures research is grounded in the eschatological future of Jesus’ return, which is the summation of God’s redemptive plan (Revelation 21:5). This redemptive plan is active and ongoing, which means Christians are a not yet people and are still waiting for the purposeful end (telos) that is foundational to the Christian faith.  

Engaging in futures thinking helps churches and Christian leaders to grow in wisdom. The Wisdom tradition cautions us from being overconfident in our human ingenuity (Proverbs 16:1, 9; James 4:13-16). Nevertheless, scripture does not suggest abandoning all planning for the future but rather submitting our plans to God’s direction (Proverbs 3:16, James 4:15). In addition, scripture encourages: 

1. Faithfully engaging in ongoing discernment (1 Kings 3:9; John 7:24)
2. Increasing our awareness of signs of the future (Habakkuk 2: 3-4; Jeremiah 6:16-19)
3. Better understanding the times/seasons (Ecclesiastes 3; 1 Chronicles 12:32; Matthew 16:6) 

Drivers of Change: Drivers of change are internal or external forces which inform the development of trends. Drivers are the forces which catalyze or shape trends or emerging considerations. 

Macro Trends: Trends have recognizable, historical, and visible paths and impacts. Often they can be verified by quantitative and qualitative data patterns of change affecting society writ large. 

Micro Trends: Micro trends represent a further focusing of the way in which macro trends are then experienced by individuals and manifest on a more day-to-day local level. 

Ecclesial Trends: Ecclesial trends highlight how the macro and micro trends are surfacing within the church. These trends may correlate directly to specific macro or micro trends or just generally to a driver of change. 

Emerging Considerations: Emerging considerations are signals that may not be mature or mainstream enough to be categorized as trends within the church but are still established enough to identify here. 

All faithful work in the church requires reflection on the past, understanding of the present, and consideration of the future. When we notice the opportunities and challenges of our neighbourhoods, when we frame our understanding within larger trends in culture, and when we faithfully discern what these observations mean for the mission and witness of the church, we can consider how we can continue to serve and support the church’s witness and mission in present and future contexts.  

Theo-futures research can help churches identify and consider changes (trends) occurring both in the broad and local contexts and prayerfully discern what these changes could mean for their church. What would it mean to remain faithful to the mission of the church, considering these changes? How might churches take the lead in shaping desirable, ever more faithful futures? Theo-futures research provides methods for deepening our understanding of possible future scenarios so we can theologically consider strategic actions which will best fulfil the church’s mission amidst a rapidly changing context.  

Theo-futures research also can help identify shifts and changes in people’s attitudes and worldviews. Being aware of these trends can help a church address the values people hold that might connect to Christian faith or be a barrier to it. For instance, there is a trend of increasing loneliness in North American society; being aware of this trend can help a church intentionally consider how to help people connect to meaningful community. This process will help Christian leaders identify what is likely to change within broader society and the church, understand what is shaping these changes, and consider the implications of this on the church.  

Futures research considers current trends in society, but also things like government plans and developments. A tangible example is if the government announces an affordable housing development in a church’s community, that church’s strategic decision-making should consider how to best serve those new people moving to their community.  

Futures research provides methods for deepening our understanding of possible future scenarios so we can theologically consider their implications for our strategic decision-making. 

The posture in which ADC approaches futures thinking is grounded in humility and listening. Theo-futures research should be viewed as a tool and approach which helps to gather insight and information for churches and Christian leaders to contextualize, consider, and reflect theologically upon. Two possible risks when engaging in futures thinking are that we can become overconfident in what we perceive the future to be and not consider the prompting of the Holy Spirit or how things may change. The other potential risk is that as we learn more about the future we could feel helpless and hopeless. 

Absolutely not! One essential part of futures research is to study the past to understand how it is influencing the present and the future. There are many things we can learn from our past, and the Christian tradition has a rich history from which to draw. However, we must be careful not to slip into nostalgia for programs or practical things but instead focus on principles and values which transcend time and context. This is the nuanced nature of thinking about possible futures. We need to understand the past, support the present, and plan for the future. 

Whether you are a vocational pastor, volunteer Christian leader, Christian organization, or a church board member, there are many opportunities to utilize theo-futures research for your work. The Futuring Hub is always eager to discuss ways to support local congregations and organizations. We offer workshops, webinars, coaching, and support in futures-oriented strategic planning. If you are interested in any of these resources, please contact us.