Christian Education

This course will study how Christian Education serves the mission of the local church. Students will also study how leaders can create a healthy space for evangelism, spiritual formation, and spiritual growth when considering age, mental development, and an individual’s environment.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY:

How do we equip believers to stand firm on biblical truths when challenged by society, friends, or family? The mission of every church should be to help individuals grow in the image of Christ. This growth is achieved through spiritual formation, and Christian education is a key biblical and spiritual formation method.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Through the successful completion of this course a student will be able to:

• Examine how faith is formed and experienced by individuals in and outside of the church.

• Identify biblical principles for Christian education and apply them to their ministry context.

• Develop lesson plans for various age groups and assess curriculum for use.

• Understand how life experiences impact how individuals learn and how Christian education should change to meet the needs and abilities of different age groups.

• Articulate a personal philosophy of Christian education based on scripture and course readings.

• SLO’s: 1.1.2, 1.2.1-2, 1.3.1, 1.4.1, 1.4.2, 1.5.1, 1.5.3

COURSE FORMAT:

This course will meet on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday of each week from the beginning of June until mid-July. Class time will be a combination of lectures, in-class assignments, and open discussion. We will also hear from guest lecturers.

REQUIRED READING:

Murphy, Debra Dean. Teaching that Transforms: Worship as the Heart of Christian Education. United States: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2004. ISBN: 1-58743-067-3. Amazon $1.99 (used) or $17.92 (paperback) Anthony, Michael J.. Introducing Christian Education: Foundations for the Twenty-first Century. United States: Baker Publishing Group, 2001. ISBN: 978-1540960931. Amazon $31.94 (paperback)

ASSIGNMENTS AND ASSESSMENT:

• Attendance and class participation

• Reading of required materials and weekly reading reflections

• Creating lesson plans for Bible study or Sunday school

• Curriculum Review

PREREQUISITES:

Introduction to Theological Studies (TP2101)

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:

This course meets a core curriculum requirement for the MDiv degree.

FINAL EXAMINATION:

Presentation