One of the most significant biblical passages bearing on the issue of evaluation is Revelation 2-3, where the risen Christ assesses the spiritual performance of the churches of Asia. It is the purpose of this article to discuss four principles of evaluation that are clearly visible in Christ’s letters to these churches.

• Effective evaluation is based on accurate information

• Effective evaluation recognizes both positive and negative performance

• Effective evaluation increases awareness of accountability

• Effective evaluation provides incentives for improved performance

Pastors and church administrators would do well to observe these guidelines when assessing their subordinates’ performance.