BIB 621: Jesus’ Discipleship Methods and Models

Title: BIB 621: Jesus’ Discipleship Methods and Models

Subtitle: Transforming Lives Through Christ-Centered Discipleship

Course Name & Level: Jesus’ Discipleship Methods and Models, Master Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Discipleship, Jesus’ Methods, Kingdom of God

1. Introduction:

This course provides an in-depth examination of Jesus’ discipleship methods and models, focusing on His teachings, practices, and strategies. Students will explore how Jesus’ approach to discipleship can be applied in contemporary ministry contexts.

2. Course Description:

An advanced course focusing on the detailed study of Jesus’ methods and models of discipleship, emphasizing their theological significance and practical application. Students will engage with primary texts and scholarly interpretations to understand the transformative power of Jesus’ discipleship.

3. Course Purpose:

To equip students with a comprehensive understanding of Jesus’ discipleship methods and models, enhancing their ability to implement these practices in their own ministries.

4. Course Objectives:

To explore and analyze Jesus’ methods of discipleship, understanding their theological foundations and practical applications for contemporary Christian ministry.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Discipleship: The process of following and learning from a teacher or leader, specifically Jesus in the Christian context.
• Rabbi: A Jewish teacher or scholar, particularly one who teaches the Torah.
• Mentorship: The relationship in which a more experienced or knowledgeable person guides a less experienced or knowledgeable person.
• Incarnational Ministry: A model of ministry that emphasizes living out the gospel in everyday life, following Jesus’ example.
• Community: The group of believers who live out their faith together, supporting and encouraging one another.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Jesus’ Discipleship Methods: Overview of the course and its objectives.
• The Call of the Disciples: Examination of how Jesus called His disciples and the implications for contemporary discipleship.
• Teaching and Preaching: Study of Jesus’ teaching methods and how He communicated His message.
• Parables and Stories: Analysis of the parables Jesus used to teach His disciples and the crowds.
• One-on-One Mentorship: Exploration of Jesus’ personal interactions with His disciples and the importance of mentorship.
• Group Dynamics: Understanding how Jesus managed and taught His group of disciples.
• Servant Leadership: Study of Jesus’ model of leadership and its application in discipleship.
• Prayer and Spiritual Disciplines: Examination of the role of prayer and spiritual practices in Jesus’ discipleship method.
• Living Out the Kingdom: Analysis of how Jesus taught His disciples to live out the values of the Kingdom of God.
• Empowerment and Commissioning: Study of how Jesus empowered and commissioned His disciples for ministry.
• Challenges and Failures: Exploration of the challenges Jesus faced in discipling His followers and how He addressed them.
• Contemporary Applications: Applying Jesus’ methods and models of discipleship to modern ministry contexts.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and methods in Jesus’ discipleship.
• Reflection Papers: Written reflections on personal insights and learnings from specific topics.
• Research Paper: An in-depth research paper on a chosen aspect of Jesus’ discipleship methods.
• Midterm Exam: An exam covering the first half of the course material.
• Final Exam: Comprehensive exam covering the entire course.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions and group activities.
• Presentation: A presentation on a significant aspect of Jesus’ discipleship methods and models.

8. Research References:

• The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman. eBook format. MLA Citation: Coleman, Robert E. The Master Plan of Evangelism. Revell, 2006.
• Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building Your Life in Christ by Greg Ogden. eBook format. MLA Citation: Ogden, Greg. Discipleship Essentials: A Guide to Building Your Life in Christ. InterVarsity Press, 2007.
• Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship by Michael J. Wilkins. eBook format. MLA Citation: Wilkins, Michael J. Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship. Zondervan, 1992.
• Transformational Discipleship: How People Really Grow by Eric Geiger, Michael Kelley, and Philip Nation. eBook format. MLA Citation: Geiger, Eric, Michael Kelley, and Philip Nation. Transformational Discipleship: How People Really Grow. B&H Publishing, 2012.
• The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. eBook format. MLA Citation: Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship. Touchstone, 1995.

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of Jesus’ discipleship methods and models, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.