The Next Era of the Cooperative Program

Navigating the Uncertain Future of Southern Baptists’ Signature Missions Funding Pathway

Every generation faces turning points. This one is defined by economic disruption, generational shifts, declining trust, and growing uncertainty about how to fund and sustain shared ministry. The Next Era of the Cooperative Program takes readers inside one of the largest unified mission systems in the evangelical world, exploring how churches can respond.

Written by strategist and foresight practitioner Chris Forbes, this book is grounded in real-world research from the Future Commission 2050 Project. It offers a clear and accessible example of how strategic foresight can be applied to ministry challenges, making it an ideal resource not only for denominational leaders but also for pastors, educators, consultants, and anyone curious about the future of shared ministry.

Whether you're navigating budget conversations, preparing future leaders, or exploring long-view planning for your own organization, this book can serve as a practical entry point into ministry foresight.

Use it as:

  • A case study in applying foresight to complex ministry systems

  • A conversation starter for strategic planning and long-range funding

  • A launchpad for those taking their first step toward becoming ministry futurists

  • Valuable for leaders in any ministry context, not just the SBC

Available now on Amazon:

  • "A careful, immersive, and strategic look into the future..."

    — Dr. Tony Wolfe, Executive Director, South Carolina Baptist Convention

  • “Engaging, winsome, and deeply insightful."

    — Dr. David S. Dockery, President, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary

  • "Chris asks us to consider four potential futures that should compel us to action."

    — Ray Griffin, Executive Pastor, Quail Springs Baptist Church, OKC

  • "A concise but timely guide built on real foresight research and gospel clarity."

    — Christopher Sanchez, PhD, Pastor and Educator

  • "A practical roadmap for churches seeking to strengthen cooperative mission."

    — Matt Tullos, Tennessee Baptist Mission Board

  • "A call to courage, clarity, and cooperation for the next quarter century."

    — Jay Gary, PhD, APF, Educator, Entrepreneur, Professional Futurist

Interested in Bulk Orders?

Use the form below if you’d like to:

  • For team, class, or cohort use, contact us for bulk discounts on orders of 25 or more.

  • Invite Dr. Forbes to speak or lead Incite Futures Labs with your team

  • Explore how strategic foresight could strengthen your ministry context

Let’s connect and explore what the next era of ministry leadership could look like together!