DESCRIPTION: This course will challenge current and future church leaders to
consider ways in which they can contribute to whole congregations being engaged
in the mission of God. A biblical foundation will be laid for seeing the whole
people of God as ministers. Appropriate leadership models for forming missional
congregations will be considered. We will explore the goals and methods of
congregational empowerment as well as the obstacles that must be addressed.
Attention will be given to how all members of the local church can minister
within the spheres of church, family, work, and community.
COURSE OBJECTIVES/LEARNING OUTCOMES: Cognitive: Students will grasp the key
role of the whole people of God in the ministry of the church; develop a fuller
understanding of the nature of clergy and laity and the relationship between
the two; build biblical and theological foundations for an empowering model of
church leadership. Skills: Students will develop analytical and interpretive
skills concerning leadership, church structures, and culture; participatory
leadership skills; and skills in curriculum development. Affective: Students
will experience increased passion to draw the broad range of God's people into
ministry and greater commitment to developing as leaders in this direction.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Congregational leaders must prepare and release others
to use their gifts in ministry, and they should help others understand ministry
as including the spheres of church, family, work, and community. Only as the
whole people of God engage in the work of God will the church live into its
very nature. This class will point students to the benefits and challenges of
living out this theology in local congregations and will give them tools they
can use in their congregations.
COURSE FORMAT: The course will meet weekly for three-hour sessions. Class time
will include lectures, Bible studies, large and small group discussions,
student presentations, and guest speakers.
REQUIRED READING: