BIB 821: Discipleship in Historical and Contemporary Contexts

Title: BIB 821: Discipleship in Historical and Contemporary Contexts

Subtitle: Exploring the Evolution and Practice of Discipleship

Course Name & Level: Discipleship in Historical and Contemporary Contexts, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Discipleship, Historical Context, Contemporary Context

1. Introduction:

This course provides an in-depth exploration of discipleship, examining its development from historical to contemporary contexts. Students will study the principles and practices of discipleship and their application in modern ministry.

2. Course Description:

An advanced course focusing on the concept of discipleship through historical and contemporary lenses. Emphasis is placed on understanding the evolution of discipleship and its practical implementation in today’s world.

3. Course Purpose:

To equip students with a comprehensive understanding of discipleship, enabling them to apply historical principles and contemporary practices in their ministry.

4. Course Objectives:

To explore the historical development and contemporary practices of discipleship, enhancing students’ ability to integrate these principles into modern ministry contexts.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Discipleship: The process of following and learning from a teacher or leader, particularly in a religious context.
• Great Commission: Jesus’ command to his disciples to spread his teachings to all the nations of the world.
• Mentorship: A relationship in which a more experienced or knowledgeable person helps to guide a less experienced or knowledgeable person.
• Spiritual Formation: The process of growing and maturing in one’s spiritual life and relationship with God.
• Missional Living: A lifestyle that prioritizes living out the mission of the gospel in everyday life.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Discipleship: Overview of the course and its objectives.
• Historical Models of Discipleship: Examination of discipleship practices in the early church and throughout church history.
• Jesus’ Model of Discipleship: In-depth study of Jesus’ approach to discipling his followers.
• Pauline Discipleship: Analysis of Paul’s methods and teachings on discipleship.
• Discipleship in the Early Church: Exploration of how early Christians practiced discipleship.
• Monastic Movements: Study of the role of monasticism in the development of discipleship.
• Reformation and Discipleship: Examination of how the Reformation influenced discipleship practices.
• Modern Discipleship Movements: Exploration of contemporary discipleship movements and their impact.
• Cultural Contexts of Discipleship: Analysis of how cultural contexts influence discipleship practices.
• Missional Discipleship: Study of how discipleship intersects with mission and evangelism.
• Technology and Discipleship: Examination of the role of technology in contemporary discipleship.
• Challenges in Contemporary Discipleship: Exploration of the challenges faced in practicing discipleship today.
• Case Studies in Effective Discipleship: Analysis of successful discipleship programs and initiatives.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and historical developments in 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 discipleship.
• 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 discipleship in historical or contemporary contexts.

8. Research References:

• The Lost Art of Disciple Making by LeRoy Eims. eBook format. MLA Citation: Eims, LeRoy. The Lost Art of Disciple Making. Zondervan, 1978.
• Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples a Few at a Time by Greg Ogden. eBook format. MLA Citation: Ogden, Greg. Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples a Few at a Time. IVP Books, 2003.
• 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. IVP Connect, 2007.
• The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. eBook format. MLA Citation: Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship. SCM Press, 1959.
• Making Disciples in a Post-Christian World by John S. Dickerson. eBook format. MLA Citation: Dickerson, John S. Making Disciples in a Post-Christian World. Zondervan, 2019.

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