Have you ever wondered if you’re fully using your experiences and abilities in your church planting, church growth, or at your workplace?
The 360 survey is an evaluation tool designed for all Christians—not only church planters and ministry leaders, but also those working in Christian businesses, nonprofits, schools, hospitals, and more. Participants receive feedback from six people who know them well (such as a recruiter, supervisor/Main pastor, spouse, colleague, and disciples). This feedback encourages self-awareness and personal growth.
From a set of 40 evaluation areas, you can select 6–8 items tailored to your specific goals. After the survey, you will receive a comprehensive feedback report including evaluation graphs, strengths, and areas for growth. You’ll then have an online meeting with a CTCJ coach to discuss the results and develop a concrete action plan. (Click here for more details about the 360 survey)
Through the 360 survey, many have deepened their self-awareness and experienced transformation in their walk with God and relationships with others. Here, we share the voices of two Japanese Christian men: one in his 20s preparing to plant a church in future(A), and another with many years of ministry experience currently serving as a lead pastor in the church(B).
1. Did the 360 survey help you grow in self-awareness?
A:"Although I already knew I had areas to improve, the feedback from others made me realize I was more lacking than I had thought. On the other hand, I was also encouraged to see that others rated me highly in areas I hadn’t recognized myself."
B:"Seeing how others evaluated me helped me reaffirm my gifts and reminded me of God’s grace and mercy. The feedback helped me understand the gap between my self-perception and others’ perspectives and clarified the roles and responsibilities expected of me.”
2. How was the follow-up online meeting helpful?
A:"The coach provided an objective view of the results, which helped me clearly understand my current situation and what I needed to do next. It was especially helpful to create three specific action plans together. Discussing a long-avoided issue during the session gave me the courage to finally face it."
B:"It was a huge help. When I try to analyze the results by myself, I tend to overthink. But the coach, as a third party, discussed the results based on facts, which gave me clarity. My direction became clearer, and I could think through my action plan more concretely. I started with a fresh mindset—and some of those practices continue to this day."
3. Did you experience positive change or impact in your work after the survey?
A:"One of the action plans I implemented led to reconciliation with a family member. I used to avoid that relationship, but I was able to take the initiative. That person later began attending church and even started praying at home. It was amazing to witness that change. I also became aware that I lacked a clear future vision, and now I am intentionally thinking about it."
B:"It gave me healthy confidence. I realized that I don’t need to be overly cautious. It felt like someone gave me a gentle push forward."
4. Why would you recommend the 360 survey to others?
A:"I recommend this not only for church planters, but for all leaders. In the past, I’ve received generic assessments with only a few respondents. This survey allows six people from various roles in your life to evaluate you—which is a rare and valuable opportunity. I've tried tools like StrengthsFinder and the 16 Personalities test, but those only reflect self-perception. The 360 survey gave me objective insight into my actual self. The written comments and clearly worded report about my strengths and growth areas were incredibly helpful. It deepened my self-awareness and clarified what others expect of me."
B:"I believe taking the 360 survey is especially meaningful for church planters. I would recommend this to all planters and pastors. It not only helps the individual being evaluated, but also deepens the understanding of those who support them—churches, committees, and teams. It helps them understand the planter’s or pastor’s strengths and areas of growth, leading to more meaningful support."
Closing Reflections
Both individuals deepened their understanding of themselves and their spiritual gifts. By putting into practice the action plans developed during the coaching sessions, they experienced tangible changes and new steps forward. In both life and ministry, there are many seasons and stages. Gaining awareness of one’s strengths, weaknesses, potential, and blind spots benefits not only our relationship with God but also how we serve others and work in teams. Personal transformation inevitably blesses the church and the entire community.
Ultimately, God is our judge and so we should not overly worry about how others (or we) assess our role. Yet, Proverbs repeatedly teaches that the wise person listens to advice, even when it is difficult (Proverbs 12:15–18, 27:5–6). It is not easy to see ourselves objectively, which is why God-given feedback from others is a precious guide for reflection.
The 360 survey is a tool that helps you gain insight and take your next step. Why not use the 360 Survey as a step to face yourself as you prepare for a new stage—or as an opportunity to confirm that God’s guidance is indeed clear? We warmly invite you to take that next step.
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For questions or inquiries: 360survey@citytocityjapan.com
Author:Kumi Ogawa