DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed to give a general introduction to Baptists--their history, distinctive doctrines and denominational polity. Its aim is to provide the student with a working knowledge of Baptist distinguishing characteristics, roots, growth and fruit. Special attention will be given to the Baptist understanding of the doctrine of the church, religious authority and freedom, baptism and the Lord's Supper. Students will learn how to do baptisms, weddings and funerals and will practice administering baptism coached by an experienced pastor. Students will learn the standards and procedures for ordination and write their doctrinal statement. Students will research the structure and governance practices and procedures of their denomination.

Satisfactory completion of this course will provide the student with the necessary information to be equipped for ordination and ministry among Baptists.

The course will meet for an hour and a half twice a week for lecture and discussion. One class session will meet in a local Baptist church in order to practice administering baptism.

Leonard, Bill J. Baptist Ways: A History. Judson Press, 2003.

Marring, Norman H., and Winthrop S. Hudson. A Baptist Manual of Polity and Practice. Rev. ed. Judson Press, 1991.

The New Testament (any modern translation).

Brackney, William, ed. Baptist Life and Thought: A Source Book. Rev. ed. Judson Press, 1998.

Freeman, Curtis; James Wm. McClendon Jr.; and Villas da Silver. Baptist Roots. Judson Press, 1999.

Goodwin, Everett, ed. Baptists in the Balance. Judson Press, 1997.

Hudson, Winthrop S. Baptist Concepts of the Church. Judson Press, 1959.

Lumpkin, William. Baptist Confessions of Faith. Judson Press, 1959.

Mullen, E. V. Axioms of Religion. Broadman & Holman, 1997.

Stewart, Howard R. American Baptists and the Church. University Press of America, 1997.

1. Assigned reading must be completed in order to be prepared for class discussion (30% of grade for reading, class attendance, and participation).

2. A five-page paper on the Baptist concept of the nature and mission of the church (10% of grade).

3. A five-page paper on the Baptist perspective on religious authority and freedom (10%).

4. A five-page personal statement of faith which can be submitted to an ordination council (10%).

5. A five-page paper on the Baptist perspective on baptism and the Lord's Supper (10%).

6. A five-page paper on the Baptist perspective on congregational church governance (10%).

7. A five-page research paper on the structure and governance practices and procedures of the student's denomination (10%).

8. A one-page outline of New Testament book. Specific book will be assigned in class (10%).

None.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in pastoral Ministry and Theology (MIN 6).

None.