The Role of Shared Values in Driving Church Growth among Selected Pentecostal Churches in Kenya

Shared values is acknowledged as the glue that holders an organization together and lays the foundation for its growth. However, despite the recognized significance of shared values, many Pentecostal churches face challenges in embedding these values within their leadership structures, which can hinder growth and long-term sustainability. This study sought to explore the role of shared values in driving church growth within Pentecostal churches in Kenya, investigating how these values shape leadership, organizational dynamics, and congregational engagement. The study adopted an embedded mixed-methods research design. The target population from the 47 counties of Kenya was 42,209 church leaders comprising of 2,828 bishops; 11,633 reverends; and 27,748 pastors of selected Pentecostal churches across different regions in Kenya. Employing purposive sampling, five counties (10%) of the total counties in Kenya were selected. From the five counties, 371 bishops, 1793 reverends, and 5462 pastors totalling to 7626 respondents were selected. Based on the five counties, the sample size was 380 participants including key informants. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and key informant interviews. Quantitative data was examined using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression model while qualitative data was subjected to thematic analysis. A high rating of shared values was observed (M=4.46, SD = 0.705), suggesting that majority of the churches were united by their shared values. Correlation analysis revealed a small but statistically significant positive correlation between shared values and church growth (r = .216, p < .01). Regression results showed that a unit increase in shared values was associated with 0.273 increase in church growth. The quantitative results were corroborated with qualitative insights whereby participants emphasized that shared values are fundamental to church growth, as they serve as the foundation for unity and a collective sense of purpose. Conclusion was drawn that shared values have a small yet meaningful effect on church growth. Pentecostal churches can stimulate growth by embracing core values, cultivating a culture of respect, teamwork, and mutual support. Their involvement in church initiatives and commitment to collaborative efforts will directly influence the congregation's overall progress. Future studies should expand the predictors of church growth by examining additional factors like strategic leadership, execution strategy, and environmental constraints.