• Interdisciplinary Courses
  
• Children's and Family Ministry
• Community Ministry
• Discipleship in Community
• Global Evangelization and Contextual Ministry
• Ministry Leadership
• Preaching and Communication

“Here is a saying you may trust: ‘To aspire to leadership is an honorable ambition’” (I Timothy 3:1). The Oxford Study Bible, Revised English.

Focus. Those who aspire to spiritual leadership for the sake of Christ and His kingdom seek an “honorable ambition.” The church of Jesus Christ is in desperate need of men and women who will rise to the challenges and opportunities of leading in the 21st century. A growing cadre of spiritual leaders who share a common commitment to Jesus Christ and a deep concern for the welfare of His church, our world, and the next generation must be identified, equipped, and sent to minister.

The Center for Transformational Leadership seeks to develop men and women who in their years at Bethel Seminary are experiencing transformation in their personal and spiritual lives, and are growing in their ability to lead others to experience a similar transformation. We aim to develop leaders who are catalysts for healthy, substantive, and lasting kingdom change, first in themselves, then in others, in the churches and organizations they lead, in their communities, and ultimately in the world for whom Christ died. The test of transformational leadership is not the development of followers but the reproduction of a new generation of transformational leaders.

Biblical Diversity. We affirm that biblical diversity is a hallmark of healthy, community-building leadership. Mono­cultural models of leadership are inadequate for the global, multicultural mission of Christ’s church. The world for whom Christ died is ethnically and racially diverse. Therefore, the Center for Transformational Leadership will expose students to multiple models of ministry and spiritual leadership that reflect the global and multicultural focus of the Great Commission.

The Classroom and Beyond. From a purely pedagogical standpoint, spiritual leadership cannot be taught, but nonetheless, it must be learned. Educational experiences must be connected to the real life of the student and to the resources of the larger community. Intimate friendships, authentic sharing, and a deep sense of community must supply the context for educational programs. Toward this end, educational experiences beyond the classroom will be employed to expose students to the biblical theory and practice of spiritual leadership. Supervised ministry, covenant groups, church-based ministry, and opportunities for mentoring relationships with faculty and lay leaders are just a few of the ways that the development of spiritual leaders will be enhanced.

Lifelong Learning. Spiritual leaders are not developed in two or three years according to an academic timetable. The academic program is only the beginning, not the end, of the spiritual leadership development process. The Center for Transformational Leadership is committed to accelerating and continuing this developmental process in the seminary years and beyond.

Course Offerings. The Center for Transformational Leadership includes the areas of discipleship in community; global evangelization and contextual ministry; ministry leadership; preaching and communication; and supervised ministry. Studies in these disciplines will provide the student with the practical ministry skills and biblical framework for transformational ministry in the 21st century. 

Interdisciplinary Courses

TL501 (TL100) • Culture and Ministry.
A biblically grounded examination of culture as the context of all ministry. This course applies understanding of culture to the global mission mandate of the church, and examines how one’s cultural identity influences spiritual and personal growth as well as leadership potential. It explores in depth the issues of sexism and gender, race relations, and the pervasive and insid­ious nature of racism. The reconciling power of the gospel to transform the church into a new community will permeate the course. Required of all students in all degree programs except M.A.M.F.T. St. Paul and Seminary of the East only. Four hours.

TL510 (TL110) • Celebrating Diversity and Embracing Unity.
This course is designed to help each person come to grips with his/her own learned and socially prescribed attitudes and beliefs concerning “others.” An attempt will be made to develop together a biblically based and anthropologically informed paradigm to engage the issues of ethnocentrism and cultural imperialism, language supremacy, racial bigotry and fear, slavery in its many forms, gender status and inequalities, degradation of the poor and powerless, the status of the refugee, the unequal distribution of goods and resource consumption, and the significance of non-Western ideologies. The unifying power of God’s redemptive and reconciling work will permeate the course. Required of all students in all degree programs except M.A.M.F.T. San Diego only. Four hours.

TL511 (TL114) • Introduction to Theological Education.
This course orients and prepares students for their work in graduate-level theological education by focusing on the three aspects of Bethel Seminary of the East’s model: academic rigor, spiritual formation, and ministry skill development. Students are assisted in choosing and forming their mentoring teams through the development of a Guided Learning Experience. The creation of the first Guided Learning Experience will prepare students for courses with required Guided Learning Experiences. Seminary of the East only. Three hours.

Children's and Family Ministry

Denise Muir Kjesbo

CF501 (CF101) • Introduction to Children’s and Family Ministry.
This foundational course will present a broad overview of contemporary ministry to children and families set within the broader educational ministries of the church. The field of children’s ministry will be analyzed in the context of cultural trends affecting children, families, and the church. Students will explore a survey of the history of religious education from Old Testament times to the present day as well as current theories of ministry to children and families. These experiences will guide the students in developing a biblical philosophy of ministry to children and families. Four hours.

CF502 (CF102) • Development Across the Life Cycle.
This course is a study of the life stages and age-level characteristics of children through adults. Students will develop an understanding of physical, mental, emotional, social, moral, and spiritual characteristics of individuals across the human life cycle. Application of course content will be made as students assess the age-level appropriateness of specific ministries in their local contexts. Four hours.

CF622 (CF122) • Advocacy for Special Needs Children and Families.
This course is designed to give students exposure to multiple avenues of advocacy within the church, family, community, and global contexts. Students will explore, discuss, and evaluate the literature, current practices, key leaders, and potential new ways of advocating for children in a variety of settings. Particular attention will be given to ways to advocate for children with many different kinds of special needs. Four hours.

CF651DE (CF131DE) • Curriculum Development and Assessment.
This course is a study of the basic concepts that undergird learning theory, curriculum development, and curriculum assessment in children’s and family ministry. It is designed to provide a foundation for understanding the teaching-learning process, the process of curriculum planning, curriculum evaluation, and writing of curriculum materials. Four hours.

CF652 (CF132) • Creativity and Models of Content Delivery.
This course explores planning, implementing, and evaluating teaching/learning experiences. The areas of creativity, learning styles, brain-based learning, and multiple intelligences will be investigated through reading, discussion, classroom experiences, and student-led teaching opportunities. Students will present in class, be videotaped, and receive peer review and instructor feedback. Evaluation is a key component of this course, both self-evaluation and peer review. Prerequisites: CF501 and CF651. Four hours.

CF661 (CF141) • Dynamics of Staffing and Leadership.
This course explores the essence of Christian leadership development and its influence on staff dynamics. Leadership emergence theory, grounded in the comparative study of life histories of biblical, historical, and contemporary leaders, forms the basis of analysis. This course will also address the development of effective ministry staff relationships in the local church. Four hours.

CF662DE (CF142DE) • Children’s and Family Ministry Administration.
This course explores the many facets of the administrative process within the context of a staff ministry position. Administration may be viewed as bringing the resources of an organization together in such a way as to maximize working relationships of people and programs for the benefit of both the organization and the individuals who comprise it. Students will be encouraged to examine the biblical bases for visionary leadership and the practical skills of creating and maintaining healthy programs for children and families. Four hours.

Community Ministry

Mark Harden

CM601/CM631 (GC220) • Street Culture, the Poor and Urban Ministry.
This course will explore the current problems of urban society and the challenges these realities present to churches. A review of past and present responses to urban society by the church will be considered with a view toward developing strategies for the present and future. The course is intended for all interested in formulating a theology of ministry and not solely for those interested in urban ministry. CM601 Four hours; CM631 Two hours.

CM603/CM633 (GC221) • Compassionate Urban Ministry.
This course introduces participants to multidimensional factors that influence the quality of life among the poor. Students will examine the circumstances surrounding individual children, youth, and families for the purpose of formulating a pastoral response. An emphasis is placed upon the root causes of problems and helps prepare students to address conditions such as homelessness, family violence, substance abuse, and unemployment. CM603 Four hours; CM633 Two hours.

CM661/CM641 (GC215) • Facilitating Community Development.
This course is designed to familiarize students with the principles for developing a holistic approach to community development. The idea of “Christian community development” or “transformational development” as a contemporary approach to Christian ministry is discussed in relationship to an urban context. Economic versus relational faith-based models in ministry related to family life, housing, job training, business/economic development, and public health interventions are explored. Students in this course examine community development concepts and models that enable ministry leaders to facilitate community development in a diverse environment. CM661 Four hours; CM641 Two hours.

CM662/CM642 (GC216) • Creating Faith-Based Organizations.
The aim of this course is to familiarize participants with the non-profit world and increase their ability to organize and develop a faith-based organization (FBO). Participants explore the distinctive nature of FBOs in order to understand how to apply best practices for Christian ministry. Relevant issues on incorporation and tax-exempt status processes under the internal revenue code are discussed. Participants learn what it takes to sustain effective ongoing operations through board development, planning, fundraising, and sustainability strategies. CM662 Four hours; CM642 Two hours.

CM663/CM643 (GC217) • Effective Ministry Planning and Development.
This course goes beyond teaching students the fundamentals of a program planning process. It helps students gain insight about planning as a systematic process for ministry development. The course involves students analyzing and synthesizing information from the initial point of a spiritual discernment process to theological reflection. Specific program planning skills, protocols, and methodologies for church-based and/or agency-based ministry are learned. Students learn to understand their ministry context and the problem, design components and processes, and strategically apropriate resources to bring about positive change. CM663 Four hours; CM643 Two hours.

CM702/CM701 (GC218) • Implementing Change Strategies in Ministry.
This course equips students to develop and implement macro- and micro-level change strategies in a ministry context. Students learn the dynamics of systems/policy change and community organizing principles for methods that can lead to change. Students also learn to design a process that can lead to organizational and individual change. This course is designed to increase the student’s ability to engage the church as a community change agent while attending to the transformational needs of the participants. Theories and models for change include environmental change strategies, community organizing and mobilization, and stages of change theory. CM702 Four hours; CM701 Two hours.

Discipleship in Community

John R. Cionca
John Lillis

The goal of Christian education is presenting all people mature in Christ (Col. 1:28). This task is accomplished by equipping competent leaders who will pass on the faith to the various people groups, cultures, and generations within their spheres of influence. Sadly, the great biblical and theological truths of Scripture can appear as dead stories and pharisaical traditions in the hands of an unskilled communicator. But when the message is embodied in a Spirit-filled, captivating teacher like Christ Himself, the Bible comes alive and people are changed. Thus, studies in Christian education are designed to help ministers become effective orchestrators of learning in their faith communities.

Objectives:
Study in Discipleship in Community enables students to:

1. develop a biblical/theological framework for discipleship in community;
2. appreciate different program models of educational ministry;
3. design an effective structure for directing volunteer services;
4. develop a process for building dynamic ministry teams; and
5. cultivate personal teaching skills and small group leadership abilities.

DC501 (DC101) • Discipleship in Community.
This course introduces students to the biblical and theological foundations for discipleship in the faith community, including the role of the Holy Spirit in teaching. Philosophy and models of ministry are considered. Students develop an understanding of missional and programmatic emphases in ministry to children, youth, and adults. Learning styles and instructional methods are studied. Building a network of effective ministry teams is a primary focus. Students gain a vision and enthusiasm for the teaching-shepherding possibilities within any congregation. Formerly entitled “Educational Ministry of the Church.” Four hours. Seminary of the East course includes a Guided Learning Experience. Four hours.

DC513 (DC113) • Transformational Leadership.
An overview and analysis of issues critical to effectiveness in a variety of ministry leadership roles. A common emphasis on personal issues for the leader and leadership dynamics will be combined with an emphasis on the particular concerns of pastors, youth ministers, Christian education leaders, parachurch agency workers, and leaders in cross-cultural settings. (Cognate credit with TL513 and ML513.) Four hours.

DC661 (DC141) • Team Leadership.
This course offers an overview of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for sustained success in team leadership. The Bible, contemporary literature, and congregational studies are drawn together to inform the student’s leadership awareness. Principles and practices for attracting, developing, and maintaining high-performance ministry teams are examined. Special emphasis is given to identifying and discussing the critical knowledge, skills, and abilities required for sustained success in a team-based, entrepreneurial organizational setting. (Cognate credit with ML661.) Four hours.

DC622 (DC122) • Advocacy for Special Needs Children and Families.
This course is designed to give students exposure to multiple avenues of advocacy within the church, family, community, and global contexts. Students will explore, discuss, and evaluate the literature, current practices, key leaders, and potential new ways of advocating for children in a variety of settings. Particular attention will be given to ways to advocate for children with many different kinds of special needs. (Cognate credit with CF622.) Four hours.

DC635 (DC235) • Foundations of Youth Ministry.
A philosophy of ministry to young people and their families is developed. The needs and characteristics of youth and methods of relating to them for purposes of Christian commitment and growth are presented. Family context is studied to understand youth and develop a holistic approach toward ministry. Four hours.

DC636 (DC236) • Communicating the Gospel to Teens.
A study of the communication process as it relates to teenagers. Strategies to communicate the gospel, evangelize, and nurture faith in teenagers are discussed. Effective proclamation and teaching techniques will be studied. Four hours.

DC651DE (DC131DE) • Curriculum Development and Assessment.
This course is a study of the basic concepts that undergird learning theory, curriculum development, and curriculum assessment in children’s and family ministry. It is designed to provide a foundation for understanding the teaching-learning process, the process of curriculum planning, curriculum evaluation, and writing of curriculum materials. (Cognate credit with CF651DE.) Four hours.

DC654 (DC254) • Camp Program Experience.
One-half course. Responsibility for leadership in a camp program, under the supervision of a faculty member, in conjunction with an on-site supervisor. Two hours.

DC704 (DC204) • Professional Development in Ministry.
Focuses on key issues and resources essential to the practice of effective ministry. The integrative seminar will assist participants in becoming students of themselves, the church, and the culture. Personal growth areas include clarifying ministry values and priorities, serving out of one’s uniqueness, maintaining adequate reserves, the art of listening, handling criticism, serving through seasons of ministry, and designing a personal development plan. Professional growth areas include building healthy congregations, understanding cultural trends, implementing change, navigating ministry transitions, and designing a professional plan. Four hours.

DC705 (DC205) • Personal and Ministry Development.
This course focuses on key issues and resources essential to the practice of effective ministry. The integrative seminar will assist ­participants in becoming students of themselves, the church, and the culture. Personal growth areas include clarifying ministry values and priorities, serving out of one’s uniqueness, maintaining adequate reserves, the art of listening, handling criticism, serving through seasons of ministry, and designing a personal development plan. Professional growth areas include building healthy congregations, understanding cultural trends, implementing change, navigating ministry transitions, and designing a professional plan. (This course is required of all M.A.C.E., M.A.C.E.-Y.L., and M.Div.-C.E. majors, and should be taken during the student’s senior year. Cognate credit with ML705.) Four hours.

DC710 (DC210) • Pastoral Care of Youth.
Investigation is made into the function of the pastor in relation to counseling with youth. Social and psychological factors in adolescence will be studied. Problems to be considered are youth culture, youth identity ­crises, drug abuse, adolescent rebellion, evangelism, vocational guidance, sex education, and parent-child conflict. The role of the pastor and the church in ministering to youth and their families will be stressed. (Cognate credit with PC710.) Offered alternate years. Four hours.

DC712 (DC212) • Teaching for Transformation.
Effective teaching is studied from the perspective of the learner, including motivational factors, needs, learning styles, life-stage, and personal development. Analysis of the role of the teacher as the orchestrator of the teaching-learning process includes character, beliefs, lesson design, communication strategies, and teaching style. Course methodologies include readings, discussions, analysis of classroom teaching (via video), live observations, compressed video, focus groups, guest practitioners, and practice teaching. Four hours.

DC738 (DC238) • The Complete Disciple.
Discusses discipleship within the context of a consistent and thorough biblical theology. Students will develop a biblical rationale for the divinely designed process of spiritual growth as well as an understanding and motivation to spur the process along. Teachings concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ will be investigated as significant truths for the daily walk of Christ’s disciples. Four hours.

DC741 (DC240) • Ministering to Adults.
This course is an examination of adult developmental life cycles (including transitions), with attention given to specific ways the congregation can minister to adults in each life stage. Students conduct contextual studies on particular areas of adult programming such as ministry to singles, ministry to women, and ministry to senior adults. The impact of motivation and learning theory on the improvement of instruction and learner achievement is considered. Models of effective church and parachurch programs to adults are studied. Adult ministry plans, both developmental and functional, are developed. Four hours.

DC742 (DC242) • Ministering to Families.
Students will study the sociology of the family with special concentration on problems of the contemporary American family. Problems such as mobility, divorce, unemployment, and changing sexual ethics will be ­discussed. New forms of the family will be studied in light of the Scriptures. Church ministries to various styles of family life will be developed and analyzed. Students will seek to answer the question of how the church can meet the needs of families in the 21st century. (Cognate credit with PC742.) Four hours.

DC743 (DC243) • Ministering with and to Senior Adults.
An overview of the characteristics of life after typical retirement age will provide the basis for exploring ministry to senior adults. Biblical and psychological foundations for communicating and ministering to senior adults will be described and analyzed. The course will address the challenge of providing meaningful involvement, learning, and ministry within the church and larger community. Four hours.

DC744 (DC244) • Ministries of Women in the Church.
Through reading, class discussion, interaction with guest practitioners, and careful personal study, this course will explore issues and ministry opportunities for women in church leadership. San Diego only. Four hours.

DC745 (DC245) • Family Systems.
This course will discuss basic family dynamics (such as intimacy, communication, power, and shame) with special emphasis given to examining those dynamics from the family system and family development theoretical perspectives. Relevant family topics (health, sexuality, spirituality, abuse, compulsive behavior, and divorce) will be addressed with opportunities for students to apply theoretical principles to real-life family situations. Special attention will be given to families’ interactions with the institutional church and ways in which pastors can minister more effectively to a broad range of families. (Cognate credit with PC745.) Four hours.

DC746 (DC251) • Small Groups in the Church.
Establishing healthy cell groups in local churches is the focus of this course. Specific congregational approaches are examined, including 3-C and meta-church models. The roles of study groups, support groups, and service groups are considered. The course also explores group development theory and its appropriate application to small groups in the church and other Christian organizations. It provides an opportunity for students to analyze their own styles of working with groups and to enhance their communication and leadership skills through direct group work in class and in a church setting. Life cycles of groups and their role within the congregation are studied. (Cognate credit with PC746.) Four hours.

DC748 (DC248) • Family-Based Youth Ministries.
Focuses on a model of church youth ministry that appreciates the role of parents and family systems on the spiritual growth and character development of adolescents. (Cognate credit with PC748.) Four hours.

DC270 • Independent Study in Christian Education.
Research and study by arrangement with the professor. (Permission is required.)

Global Evangelization and Contextual Ministry

Mark G. Harden
Wilbur Stone
Doug Magnuson

The study of global missions is a multicultural task aimed at bringing glory to God and our Lord Jesus Christ by accepting the call to reconcile people of all ethnic communities to faith in Jesus Christ. Our studies are rooted in the Old and New Testament calling of the people of God and current movements in world evangelism. Our opportunities are greater than ever for equipping church planters around the world with a vision to disciple leaders from every people, language, and nation starting with the challenges of reconciliation and diversity here in the United States for the cause of world evangelism. While the study of world missions has its roots in European frames of reference, we recognize the growing importance of emerging leaders from the many cultures of American cities and from around the world. We are called to disciple people in the context of their home cultures.

Objectives:
Studies in global and contextual ministries will enable students to:

1. come to terms with the biblical mandate to disciple people of every nation and to lead them into maturity in Jesus Christ as our Lord requires;
2. grow in awareness of the current movements of people to Christ in North America and around the world, with an appreciation of the diversity of God’s ways among us;
3. appreciate and critically evaluate the effectiveness of various strategies in starting and growing healthy, prevailing churches in suburban and urban contexts;
4. grow in our ability to make use of the enormous potential for global discipleship of our growing communities of culturally diverse peoples in North America;
5. develop leadership skills and gifts required for the ministry of reconciliation in changing cultural contexts; and
6. develop skills in discipleship evangelism for ministry at home and around the world.

GC501 (GC101) • Introduction to Global and Contextual Ministry.
The biblical basis, operational strategy, and local and global challenges to the mission of the church will be studied. Basic issues, strategies, programs, and models for discipling people of other cultures will be ­discussed. Four hours. Seminary of the East course includes a Guided Learning Experience.

GC502 (GC102) • Introduction to Global and Contextual Ministry.
One-half course. This course studies the biblical basis, operational strategy, and the mission of the church in the world. Not open to M.Div. students. Two hours.

GC503 (GC103) • Evangelism and Missions.
This course will lay a biblical foundation for the mission of the church in the world, as well as for a biblical theology and practice of evangelism. The goal of this course is to empower participants to develop and implement effective, Spirit-directed, and biblically based strategies to reach lost people and to make disciples of all who believe among all the peoples of the world. Prerequisite: ML513. Four hours.

GC505 (GC105) • Evangelism for Discipleship.
This course introduces the biblical basis and contemporary approaches to discipleship and evangelism. Students will begin formulating a working theology to inform their practice. Field and classroom exercises will be provided to aid students in the practice of evangelism. Three or four hours.

GC515 (GC105SE) • Evangelism and Church Growth.
This course examines the methods and principles of evangelism, leadership development, church growth, church planting, and church renewal for churches in the American Northeast. Topics include explaining the gospel in an accurate, culturally sensitive manner; using tools to diagnose a congregation’s growth potential and barriers; and identifying significant cultural factors in the people groups of the Northeastern United States that influence their receptivity to the gospel. Includes a Guided Learning Experience. Seminary of the East only. Four hours.

GC610 (GC201) • Cross-Cultural Communication.
This course will examine the dynamics of the communication process and the ways in which various cultures, audience segments, or value orientations condition the interpretation of different symbol systems. Each student will select a culture or subculture to evaluate its most dominant worldview components and the approaches to church work that are most likely to be effective in that setting. Four hours.

GC611 (GC202) • Christianity in Culture.
Culture is studied to help those serving in various ministry contexts to identify the distinctives of culture and Christian heritage; to distinguish the secular aspects of heritage from the distinctly Christian elements; and to know when to hold firm or to be flexible when providing pastoral care for people of other generations or cultures. Prerequisites: GC501 and GC610. Four hours.

GC651 (GC212) • World Religions.
A study of world religions (including Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hispanic ­Catholicism) that provide structures of belief and meaning for vast numbers of people in America and globally. The goal is to develop understandings and sensitivities that will enable us to represent Christ more attractively and communicate His gospel more intelligibly to adherents of these faiths. (Cognate credit with TS702.) Four hours.

GC656 (GC256) • Understanding Cults.
The history, beliefs, and methods of the major American cults, such as Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormonism, Christian Science, etc., and a comparison of their teachings and those of Scripture. San Diego only. Four hours.

GC671 (GC219) • Cross-Cultural Experience.
Each student in the Master of Arts or Master of Divinity degree programs with a concentration in missions will be required to participate in a cross-cultural experience, usually in the summer. This will be arranged in cooperation with the missions professor. In preparation for the experience, the student will do an in-depth study of the area in which the experience will occur. Four hours.

GC703 (GC211) • Religion in Anthropological Perspective.
A study of the basic roles of religion in a society, including its role as explanation system and means of social regulation. Study will include the interaction of religious theory, practices, worldview, and patterns of cultural organization. The general impact of Christianity upon the development of Western society will be studied. The course will also provide a foundation for planning evangelistic strategy and church planting in other cultures. Four hours.

GC708 (GC208) • History of World Missions.
A survey of the missionary movements on the major continents with special emphasis on biographies, types of mission field, and missionary strategy. (Cognate credit with HS708.) Four hours.

GC714 (GC205) • Theology of Global Mission.
The biblical basis of missions will be examined. Factors that affect the task of missions will be biblically and theologically critiqued, such as the nature of evangelism and salvation, development and evangelism, homogeneous unit churches, and Third World theologians. Four hours.

GC715 (GC213) • Contemporary Mission Problems.
An analysis of the anthropological, sociological, and political problems facing overseas missionaries, together with possible solutions. Special consideration will be given to nationalism, communism, the indigenous church and the missionary, and new forms of missionary strategy. Four hours.

GC235 • Discipleship in Action.
A consideration of the mission of the church with a view to equipping the whole body of Christ for the work of service. Particular attention will be paid to current literature and practical models in the areas of church renewal, ministry of the laity and the making of disciples. Students will be encouraged to formulate specific strategies for enabling local congregations to identify their life and ministry beyond the walls of the church building. San Diego only. Four hours.

GC730 (GC230) • The Gospel in Context: Exploring Models Old and New.
This is a seminar-style course evaluating the theology and practice of discipleship evangelism in significant periods and cultures. The goal of the course is to enlarge the student’s understanding and ability in the art of contextualization through relevant exercises of reflection and application. Each participant will develop a proposal for advancing the gospel in a specific contemporary context. Four hours.

GC732 (GC232) • Starting New Churches.
A definition of the need for starting new churches as a valid approach to winning unchurched people in America as well as unreached people groups around the world. A theological rationale, overarching strategies for congregations, plus specific tools and techniques are combined to provide resources for pastors of small churches or churches in transition, as well as those who want to start new churches. (Cognate credit with ML732.) Four hours.

GC734 (GC233) • Evangelism through the Local Church.
A definition of the need for starting new churches as a valid approach to winning unchurched people in America as well as unreached people groups around the world. A theological rationale, overarching strategies for congregations, plus specific tools and techniques are combined to provide resources for pastors of small churches or churches in transition, as well as those who want to start new churches. San Diego only. Four hours.

GC736 (GC264) • Global Theology.
This survey course will investigate the theological traditions developing around the world as the body of Christ grows on all continents. Class presentations will touch on theological voices from major regions of the world with reference to the issues in the culture. Students will have the opportunity to specialize in the thought of a region or of an author of their choice. (Cognate credit with TS736.) Four hours.

GC740 (GC240) • Studies in Church Growth.
A biblical and theological assessment of church growth writings for the purpose of assessing, developing, renewing, or starting spiritually healthy and g­rowing churches so that under the leading of the Holy Spirit we may be more faithful and effective in carrying out the Great Commission in this country and around the world. Students will be able to focus on large, small, American, or international models of growth and specific assessment instruments. Four hours.

GC670 (GC270) • Independent Study in Global Evangelism.
Research and study by arrangement with the professor. (Permission is required.)

Ministry Leadership

John R. Cionca
Mark W. McCloskey
Justin Irving

Studies in ministry leadership are designed to provide an exposure to, and an understanding of, pastoral ministry and transformational leadership in the varied social contexts and forms of the church, missions agencies, and parachurch organizations. Attention is given to theory and practice in the Christian worker’s implementation of spiritual leadership through worship, church governance, discipleship, evangelism, and service activities of the church.

Objectives:
Studies in the ministry leadership program enable students to:

1. critically examine the theory and practice of transformational leadership in a variety of ministry and cultural settings;
2. manifest a growing appreciation for one’s capacity to provide transformational leadership;
3. develop the leadership, management, and ministry skills required for effective service in and through the local church and/or mission agencies;
4. identify the resources to facilitate one’s lifelong development as a spiritual leader;
5. effectively implement a variety of leadership tools and processes for organizational leadership, including strategic planning, decision making, congregational analysis, team building, conflict management, and organizational change; and
6. implement leadership practices that contribute to the healthy, sustained growth of the local church and/or mission agencies.
   

Core Courses

ML504 (ML104) • Worship/Dynamics of Christian Worship.
A study in the biblical and theological foundations of worship, the nature and meaning of worship, and the many aspects involved in the practice of worship. Consideration will be given to worship patterns, structures, forms, rituals, standards, and the planning and leadership of worship. At Seminary of the East, this course includes a Guided Learning Experience. Four hours.

ML510 (ML110) • Ministry Practice and Polity.
Information concerning the various responsibilities expected of church leaders will be discussed. Observation and participation in a variety of pastoral functions will be explored as well as discussion of approaches to church finances and budgeting. Ministry practices will be dealt with in light of the different polity systems represented. San Diego only. Four hours.

ML511 (PM114) • Introduction to Theological Education.
This course orients and prepares students for their work in graduate-level theological education by focusing on the three aspects of Bethel Seminary of the East’s model: academic rigor, spiritual formation, and ministry skill development. Students are assisted in choosing and forming their mentoring teams through the development of a Guided Learning Experience. The creation of the first Guided Learning Experience will prepare students for courses with required Guided Learning Experiences. Seminary of the East only. Three hours.

ML513 (ML113) • Transformational Leadership.
An overview and analysis of issues critical to effectiveness in a variety of ministry leadership roles. A common emphasis on personal issues for the leader and leadership dynamics will be combined with an emphasis on the particular concerns of pastors, youth ministers, Christian education leaders, parachurch agency workers, and leaders in cross-cultural settings. (Cognate credit with TL513 and DC513.) Four hours.

ML550A, B, C (ML115) • Theology and Christian Community.
Working under the supervision of a mentor, students are given opportunities for the integration of biblical and theological principles within the context of Christian ministry. Specific ministry activities are delineated in a learning contract after identifying each student’s specific developmental goals. (For SemPM students beginning with Mod F. Cognate credit with TS550A, B, C.) Four hours.

ML602 (ML114) • Ministry Leadership Foundations.
This course explores the nature of Christian leadership development and its importance for enhancing the establishment of ministry foundations in the life of the transformational leader. Leadership emergence theory, a theory grounded in the comparative study of many life histories of biblical, historical, and contemporary leaders, forms the basis of analysis. Individual concepts embedded in leadership emergence theory are examined with a view toward understanding one’s own shaping as a transformational leader. Four hours.

1.    Leadership

ML551DE-ML557DE (ML151DE-ML157DE) • Mentored Leadership Development.
The Mentored Leadership Development (MLD) courses are uniquely designed experiences for InMinistry students. Each MLD course and sequence of courses is tailored to a particular degree program. The focus of MLD course work is on facilitating students as they integrate the seminary learning experience into their ministry contexts. Through a process of self-examination, developmental assessment, facilitated mentoring, group supervision, and reflection, students will demonstrate the capacity for practical application of learning outcomes from the Three Centers learning philosophy. The MLD courses are the InMinistry reflections of a traditional supervised ministry experience in that they assist students in achieving their developmental goals in an active ministry context. MLD courses are three-quarter long experiences offered in three segments (A, B, and C), each one quarter in length. The courses are completed at a distance, facilitated by a Bethel instructor. When possible, students will meet as a cohort with the instructor during intensive visits; the instructor is also available for individual consultation during the intensive and via phone or email throughout the school year. M.A.C.F.M.: ML551, ML552DE. M.A.C.T.: ML555, 556, and 567DE. MATL: ML551, 552, 553DE-ML571, 572, 573DE. M.Div.: ML581, 582, 583DE-ML591, 592, 593DE. InMinistry only.

ML610 (ML120) • Communication and Organizational Leadership.
This course is designed to address the essential elements of leadership communication. A model for leadership communication will be presented, and students will be challenged to process a wide range of material related to the foundations of leadership communication, organizational culture, organizational conflict, and organizational change. (Cognate credit with CP610.) Four hours.

ML622 (ML122) • Measurement-Based Leadership.
This course will introduce the student to a biblical theology of stewardship, along with a process for living out and enhancing one’s stewardship of kingdom resources and leadership opportunities. Specifically, the student will learn a process for designing effective tools by which he or she can measure, evaluate, and improve the health and performance of the individual leader in the context of team-based ministries, local congregations, and/or ministry organizations. Special emphasis will be placed on demonstrating measurement strategies and processes required for obtaining meaningful feedback. Four hours.

ML650 (ML130) • Self Leadership.
This course will address the personal and spiritual development of the transformational leader. The student will practice the spiritual disciplines (prayer, meditation, Scripture reading, etc.) required for a life and ministry typified by spiritual power, godly wisdom, and the ability to discern the movement of God’s Spirit in one’s life and leadership. This course will place an emphasis on self-understanding and the identification and appreciation of one’s life direction through the use of the spiritual disciplines, rigorous personal reflection, and disciplined personal assessment. Four hours.

ML661 (ML141) • Team Leadership.
This course offers an overview of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for sustained success in team leadership. The Bible, contemporary literature, and congregational studies are drawn together to inform the student’s leadership awareness. Principles and practices for attracting, developing, and maintaining high-performance ministry teams are examined. Special emphasis is given to identifying and discussing the critical knowledge, skills, and abilities required for sustained success in a team-based, entrepreneurial organizational setting. Four hours.

ML675 (ML259) • Presbyterian Polity.
Designed to give the student a theological, historical, practical, and pragmatic understanding of how things happen within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). It also is designed to prepare students to pass the Polity Section that is part of the ordination examination for the ministry of Word and Sacrament. Four hours.

ML676 (ML256) • Reformed Worship and Sacraments.
An introduction to the history, tradition and structure of Reformed Worship. The course will answer questions, give practical applications, and consider the meaning and observance of the sacraments. (Cog­nate credit with HS676 and TS676.) Four hours.

ML679 (ML255) • Liturgy, Music, and the Arts in the Anglican Tradition.
Studies the historical, theological and biblical understanding and tradition of worship as practiced in the Episcopal Church, a part of the Anglican communion. This course will seek to clarify the content, structure, and style of worship. Four hours.

ML702 (ML202) • Church Management.
Provides insights and skills in management by formation of objectives, goal setting, budget building, stewardship programs, communication among staff (volunteer and professional), management of time, and related matters arising from the needs of the participants. Four hours.

ML705 (ML205) • Personal and Ministry Development.
This course focuses on key issues and resources essential to the practice of effective ministry. This integrative seminar will assist participants in becoming students of themselves, the church, and the culture. Personal growth areas include clarifying ministry values and priorities, serving out of one’s uniqueness, maintaining adequate reserves, the art of listening, handling criticism, serving through seasons of ministry, and designing a personal development plan. Professional growth areas include building healthy congregations, understanding cultural trends, implementing change, navigating ministry transitions, and designing a professional plan. (Cognate credit with DC705.) Four hours.

ML732 (ML232) • Starting New Churches.
A definition of the need for starting new churches as a valid approach to winning unchurched people in America as well as unreached people groups around the world. A theological rationale, overarching strategies for congregations, plus specific tools and techniques are combined to provide resources for pastors of small churches or churches in transition, as well as those who want to start new churches. (Cognate credit with GC732.) Four hours.

ML791 (ML261) • Case Studies in Transformational Leadership.
This course provides students the opportunity for integrative reflection on the biblical foundations, contemporary research, and historical and contemporary practice of transformational, serving leadership. The course will focus on biblical, historical, and contemporary case studies of transformational leadership as it is expressed in a variety of cultural and community contexts. Prerequisites: ML513, TL501, HS501, NT501 (or NT551), OT501 (or OT551), TS501, either SP500, SP502 or SP505, and a minimum of three ML concentration courses. Four hours.

ML792 (ML260) • Senior Integrative Seminar.
This final, integrative seminar offers students a summative experience of the formal curriculum, assessments, and mentored leadership experience of the M.A. in Transformational Leadership program. The course will provide students the opportunity to review, reflect, and integrate the curriculum from each of the previous courses. Four hours.

2.    Analysis/Strategy Building

ML712 (ML212) • Solving Ministry Problems.
An application of the case method to church problems. This course will explore and analyze a variety of ministry problems ranging from staff conflicts to doctrinal disputes. Attention also will be given to the use of cases as a means of congregational education. Offered alternate years in St. Paul. Four hours.

ML720 (ML210) • Congregational Systems.
A study of the local church as an organism and organization. Each congregation is unique in identity, context, process, and program. Effective ministry requires a full and accurate interpretation of church life. This course develops basic approaches, methods, and tools for analysis of a congregation. A model for church health provides a basis for the creation of ministry strategy and problem solutions. (Cognate credit with DC720.) Offered alternate years in St. Paul. Four hours.

3.    Contextual Studies

ML601 (ML220) • Street Culture, the Poor and Urban Ministry.
An exploration of the current problems of urban society and the challenges these realities present to the church. Field experiences in urban churches will provide the context for both problem analysis and strategy building. (Cognate credit with GC601.) Four hours.

4.    Research

ML670 (ML270) • Independent Study in Ministry Leadership.
Research and study by arrangement with the professor. (Permission is required.)

Preaching and Communication

The transformational leader serves and ministers under the authority of the Word of God. The leader handles accurately the word of truth (II Timothy 2:15), manifesting a hermeneutically sound, theologically astute, and historically informed understanding and presentation of the New Testament and Old Testament. The leader is able to apply the Word of God with a view to its relevance to contemporary cultures and to all facets of leading God’s people. Studies in preaching are designed to lay the foundation for a lifetime of effective expository preaching. The Word of God is living and active (Hebrews 4:12). As such, it must be communicated with a view to sound biblical exegesis, as well as addressing contemporary people dealing in the context of life’s issues and concerns. The effective transformational leader possesses the ability to communicate the Word of God in a manner that produces lasting and healthy change at personal, interpersonal, organizational, community, and global levels. This includes preaching, teaching, leading small groups, and one-to-one communication of biblical truth.

Objectives:
Studies in preaching will enable students to:

1. effectively communicate the Word of God to contemporary people and cultures;
2. effectively prepare, communicate, and evaluate a variety of types and styles of sermons, with emphasis given to the expository approach to preaching;
3. effectively communicate the Word of God in a variety of life situations; and
4. effectively communicate the Word of God to a racially and culturally diverse world.

CP501 (CP101) • Introduction to Preaching.
A basic course in the principles of biblical preaching and sermon construction designed to introduce students to the purpose, nature, types, and techniques of preparing for and communicating the Word of God to contemporary people and society. Particular attention will be given to one basic structural pattern in sermon preparation that will become foundational for a varied approach to preaching. The expository approach to preaching is emphasized. This course is designed for second-year students and assumes a basic understanding of biblical interpretation and exegetical methods. St. Paul prerequisite: BT501.   Four hours.

CP511 (CP101SE) • Homiletics I: Introduction to Preaching.
A basic course in the principles of biblical preaching and sermon construction designed to introduce students to the purpose, nature, types, and techniques of preparing for and communicating the Word of God to contemporary people and society. Particular attention will be given to one basic structural pattern in sermon preparation that will become foundational for a varied approach to preaching. The expository approach to preaching is emphasized. This course is designed for second-year students and assumes a basic understanding of biblical interpretation and exegetical methods. CP501: St. Paul and San Diego. CP511: Seminary of the East only. Four hours. Seminary of the East course includes a Guided Learning Experience.

CP551 (CP102) • Preaching ­Practicum.
At St. Paul. This course is a preaching lab designed to give the student experience in preaching. Students will prepare and deliver four sermons of different styles. When possible, students will give one sermon to an audience in a local ministry setting. Periodically this course is offered in two parts, Preaching Practicum A and B. When split, students complete the class over the period of two academic quarters and receive two credits per quarter; students will preach twice during each of the two quarters. CP501 is a prerequisite for Practicum A. Both CP501 and Practicum A are prerequisites for entrance into Practicum B. Two hours each.

At San Diego. One-half course credit is given for each of the two laboratory experiences in Practicum A and Practicum B. Section A will deal with deductive preaching and B with inductive preaching. Students will preach at least twice during each of the two quarters. CP501 is a prerequisite for Practicum A. Both CP501 and Practicum A are prerequisites for entrance into Practicum B. Two hours each.

CP561 (CP102SE) • Homiletics II: ­Variety in Biblical Preaching.
Students expand on their work from CP101 and will broaden their experience in the preparation and delivery of expository sermons. Students will prepare and deliver sermons using several different methodologies based on Scripture texts from a variety of biblical genres—narrative, prophecy, poetry, etc. Includes a Guided Learning Experience. Prerequisite: CP511. Seminary of the East only. Four hours.

CP501 and CP551 are prerequisites for any advanced work in preaching.

CP562 (CP103) • Homiletics III: Preaching Sermons for Varied ­Occasions.
This course involves gaining additional experience in the preparation and delivery of biblically based sermons. It gives students practice in preaching an expository sermon that is evangelistic in nature. It provides instruction in the preparation of special occasion sermons and the opportunity to gain the experience necessary for conducting weddings, funerals, and other ceremonies of the church. Includes a Guided Learning Experience. Seminary of the East only. Four hours.

CP610 (CP120) • Communication and Organizational Leadership.
This course is designed to address the essential elements of leadership communication. A model for leadership communication will be presented, and students will be challenged to process a wide range of material related to the foundations of leadership communication, organizational culture, organizational conflict, and organizational change. (Cognate credit with ML610.) Four hours.

CP707 (CP207) • Biographical Preaching and Dramatic Monologues.
The purpose of this course is to aid the student in seeing the values and understanding the methods by which the Bible characters and personalities of the Christian tradition may become the basis for effective life-situation preaching that is relevant to the needs of contemporary people. Four hours.

CP708 (CP208) • Evangelistic Preaching.
Designed to assist the student in the task of evangelistic preaching. A theoretical base for this important dimension of biblical proclamation will be studied. The content of the gospel message, use of the public invitation, and the role of follow-up will be examined. Four hours.

CP712 (CP204) • Preaching on Life Situations.
This course includes the use of the biblical sermon in preaching to both the expected and unexpected life situations. Attention will be given to the issues, nature, and personal factors involved in these life situations that affect the sermon’s approach and application of the biblical message. Each student will preach a minimum of two sermons. Four hours.

P720 • Finding Your Voice in Preaching.
This course will focus on helping students discover the peaching style that best fits their unique makeup. Focus will be given to the study of various styles of preaching, including styles found in diverse contexts. Students will be encouraged to discover their own voice in communicating the message of the Bible by integrating the learning they have done in personal spiritual development. (Cognate credit with SP). Four hours.

CP721 (CP221) • Improving Sermonic Delivery.
There will be a concentration on the delivery aspect of sermonic communication. Theory and practice aim to sharpen vocal and bodily expression. Consideration also will be given to the public reading of Scripture. San Diego only. Four hours.

CP741 (CP210) • Expository Preaching from the Old Testament.
A study will be made of the sources of specific sermon themes in representative genre of the Old Testament. Special attention will be given to their development into expository sermons. Each student will preach a minimum of two sermons. Four hours.

CP742 (CP212) • Expository Preaching from the New Testament.
A study will be conducted of the hermeneutical issues related to the arranging of representative genre of New Testament materials for preaching. Special attention will be given to their development into expository sermons. Each student will preach a minimum of two sermons. Four hours.

CP743 • Effective Communication from Old Testament Genres.
Students will learn how to faithfully communicate the depth of truth found in the passages of the Old Testament. We will focus on the process of personally internalizing the biblical text in preparation for preaching it. Attention will be given to the preparation of sermons that are biblically and hermeneutically sound as well as transformative in the lives of the preacher and the listener. Four hours.

CP744 • Effective Communication from New Testament Genres.
The recording of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection and the impact it had on the entire world has radical implications for our lives today. Students will work to create effective communication that brings to bear the revelation of the New Testament on today’s world. This course involves the study of the hermeneutical issues related to the arranging of representative genres of the New Testament materials for preaching. Four hours.

CCP762 • Understanding Your Audience.
This course will focus on preparing speakers to shape their messages to communicate effectively with different audiences. Speakers will develop an understanding of how to address audiences with whom they will interact regularly, as well as those with whom they have significant differences in background, worldview and culture. Students will have to develop and deliver two sermons for audiences that are foreign to their experience and background. Four hours.

CP763 • Integrating Media and the Arts in Preaching.
This course will explore the use of different forms of media as tools for communicating a given message. Attention will be given to the study of communicators who employ media and the arts effectively in preaching. Students will visit and interact with churches that focus on the use of the arts and evaluate their effectiveness. Students will preach a minimum of two sermons, using media and the arts to communicate their message. Four hours.

CP670 (CP270) • Independent Study in Preaching.
Research and study by arrangement with the professor. (Permission is required.)