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Title: BIB 851: Discipleship and Spiritual Formation in the Modern Church
Subtitle: Strategies for Effective Discipleship and Spiritual Growth
Course Name & Level: Discipleship and Spiritual Formation in the Modern Church, Doctorate Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Discipleship, Spiritual Formation, Modern Church
1. Introduction:
This course explores contemporary approaches to discipleship and spiritual formation within the modern church context. Students will examine effective strategies for nurturing spiritual growth and developing discipleship programs.
2. Course Description:
An advanced course focusing on the principles and practices of discipleship and spiritual formation in the modern church. Emphasis is placed on integrating biblical teachings with contemporary methods to foster spiritual growth and community building.
3. Course Purpose:
To provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills for implementing effective discipleship and spiritual formation programs in modern church settings.
4. Course Objectives:
To analyze and apply biblical principles and contemporary strategies for discipleship and spiritual formation, enhancing students’ ability to lead and nurture spiritual growth within their congregations.
5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:
- Discipleship: The process of teaching and training individuals to follow Jesus and live according to His teachings.
- Spiritual Formation: The process of being shaped and formed spiritually, often involving practices such as prayer, meditation, and study of the Scriptures.
- Modern Church: Contemporary Christian congregations and communities, often characterized by diverse practices and technologies.
- Community Building: Efforts to create and sustain a sense of community within the church, fostering relationships and mutual support.
- Mentorship: The practice of guiding and supporting individuals in their spiritual journey, often through one-on-one relationships.
6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:
- Introduction to Discipleship and Spiritual Formation: Overview of the course and its objectives.
- Biblical Foundations for Discipleship: Examination of discipleship principles in the Old and New Testaments.
- Historical Models of Discipleship: Study of discipleship practices throughout church history.
- Contemporary Approaches to Discipleship: Analysis of modern methods and strategies for effective discipleship.
- The Role of the Holy Spirit in Discipleship: Exploration of the Holy Spirit’s role in guiding and empowering discipleship.
- Spiritual Disciplines: Examination of key spiritual practices that foster spiritual growth, such as prayer, fasting, and meditation.
- Community and Discipleship: Study of the importance of community in the discipleship process and strategies for community building.
- Mentorship and Coaching: Exploration of mentorship and coaching models for discipleship.
- Technology and Discipleship: Analysis of the role of technology in modern discipleship practices.
- Challenges in Modern Discipleship: Examination of contemporary challenges and obstacles to effective discipleship.
- Case Studies in Discipleship: Analysis of successful discipleship programs and practices in modern churches.
- Implementing Discipleship Programs: Practical strategies for developing and implementing discipleship programs in church settings.
7. Assessments with Descriptions:
- Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and biblical teachings on discipleship and spiritual formation.
- 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 or spiritual formation.
- 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 or spiritual formation in historical or contemporary contexts.
8. Research References:
- The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus’ Essential Teachings on Discipleship by Dallas Willard. eBook format. MLA Citation: Willard, Dallas. The Great Omission: Reclaiming Jesus’ Essential Teachings on Discipleship. HarperOne, 2006.
- 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 Group, 2012.
- Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered: Growing in Christ through Community by James C. Wilhoit. eBook format. MLA Citation: Wilhoit, James C. Spiritual Formation as if the Church Mattered: Growing in Christ through Community. Baker Academic, 2008.
- The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives by Dallas Willard. eBook format. MLA Citation: Willard, Dallas. The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives. HarperOne, 1988.
- 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.
This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain a deep understanding of discipleship and spiritual formation in the modern church, focusing on King Jesus, His Kingdom, and His Great Commission.
