Courses

Introduces the content, structure, and theology of the Pentateuch and Old Testament Historical Books through close reading of the Bible in contemporary translation. Texts are situated within Israel’s historical development and the ancient Near Eastern context, emphasizing narrative flow, major theological themes, and canonical relationships. Attention is given to interpretive issues, historical background, and theological significance for Christian faith and ministry. Students trace God’s redemptive purposes through representative passages from Genesis through Esther and apply these writings to teaching, preaching, and contemporary Christian life.

Examines the message, theology, and literary forms of Old Testament prophetic and poetic books through close reading of the English Bible. Emphasizes historical context, Hebrew poetry in translation, wisdom traditions, and canonical theology in order to interpret prophetic proclamation and poetic expression for teaching and ministry.

Develops advanced exegetical competence in the Hebrew text of the Former and Latter Prophets. Examines narrative and poetic genres, literary structures, historical contexts, and theological themes across prophetic literature. Applies established exegetical methods to selected texts from Joshua through Kings, Isaiah through Ezekiel, the Twelve, and Daniel, with attention to interpretive challenges and contemporary theological significance.

Explores the cross-cultural dynamics of effective ministry. It provides an understanding of culture with consideration of the students’ own cultural orientation and their ability to minister effectively cross-culturally. he course emphasizes the dynamics of receptor oriented cross-cultural communication as well as skills to develop an appropriate sensitivity to the ministry context (contextualization).

Examines how biblical exegesis, theology, and the social sciences inform educational ministry and Christian leadership for diverse ministry contexts. Integrates learning theory, human development, curriculum design, and leadership practice across the lifespan, including intergenerational and multicultural settings. Emphasis is placed on reflection on practice, team-based leadership, and the application of theory to real ministry challenges through case studies and practitioner engagement. Students develop competencies for leading educational ministries with theological depth, contextual awareness, and collaborative skill in service of the church’s mission.

Explores the theory and practice of Christian leadership through biblical, theological, and social-scientific foundations. Students engage core questions related to character formation, organizational dynamics, and contextual leadership within ministry and nonprofit settings. Emphasis is placed on integrative reflection, critical evaluation, and faithful leadership in diverse and changing environments. Specific emphases may vary by semester.

Introduces biblical, theological, and developmental foundations for cultivating healthy spiritual leadership within Christian ministry and organizational contexts. Examines core models of leadership formation, character development, and spiritual practices that support sustainable ministry. Explores the relationship between emotional health, relational maturity, and theological conviction in shaping responsible leadership. Emphasizes reflective practice and foundational competencies for nurturing spiritual growth in self and others.

Examines major historical developments in Christianity from the apostolic era up to the sixteenth-century Reformation. Emphasizes the theological, institutional, cultural, and spiritual formation of the Christian tradition, including the patristic period, ecumenical councils, the emergence of papal government, medieval Christianity, Eastern Christianity, monasticism, and scholasticism. Students engage primary and secondary sources to understand continuity and diversity within Christian belief and practice across historical contexts.

Examines the development of Christianity from the Reformation era to the present through engagement with primary and secondary historical sources. Analyzes movements traditionally associated with Europe and North America alongside the emergence of diverse Christian expressions shaped by cultural, social, and political contexts worldwide. Explores theological developments, missionary encounters, indigenous Christian movements, Pentecostal and charismatic traditions, and contemporary global trends. Emphasizes the interconnected nature of Christian history and attends to the varied ways Christian faith has been articulated, practiced, and transformed across cultures.