BIB 322: Spiritual Formation and Discipleship Practices

Title: BBIB 322: Spiritual Formation and Discipleship Practices

Subtitle: Developing Spiritual Maturity and Effective Discipleship

Course Name & Level: Spiritual Formation and Discipleship Practices, Bachelor Degree
Number of Credit Hours: 3 credit hours
Keywords: Spiritual Formation, Discipleship, Spiritual Growth

1. Introduction:

This course explores the principles and practices of spiritual formation and discipleship. Students will learn how to cultivate spiritual maturity and effectively disciple others within the context of King Jesus’ Kingdom and His Great Commission.

2. Course Description:

An advanced course that delves into the disciplines and practices necessary for spiritual growth and effective discipleship, with a focus on implementing these practices in contemporary Christian life.

3. Course Purpose:

To equip students with the tools and knowledge needed to foster spiritual growth and disciple others according to the teachings of Jesus.

4. Course Objectives:

To understand the principles of spiritual formation and to develop practical skills for effective discipleship.

5. Key Terms Defined & Key Concepts Explained:

• Spiritual Formation: The process of being shaped by the Holy Spirit into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
• Discipleship: The process of following Jesus and helping others to do the same.
• Spiritual Disciplines: Practices that promote spiritual growth, such as prayer, fasting, and Bible study.
• Sanctification: The ongoing process of becoming more like Jesus through the work of the Holy Spirit.
• Mentorship: Guiding and nurturing others in their spiritual journey.

6. Specific Topics with Descriptions:

• Introduction to Spiritual Formation: Overview of the concept and its importance in the Christian life.
• Biblical Foundations of Discipleship: Examination of key biblical passages on discipleship and spiritual growth.
• Prayer and Meditation: Study of the role of prayer and meditation in spiritual formation.
• Fasting and Self-Denial: Exploration of fasting and self-denial as spiritual disciplines.
• Scripture Reading and Study: Techniques for effective Bible reading and study.
• Community and Fellowship: The role of Christian community and fellowship in spiritual growth.
• Service and Ministry: Understanding the importance of serving others in the process of discipleship.
• Mentorship and Accountability: Developing mentoring relationships and accountability structures.
• Overcoming Spiritual Challenges: Strategies for dealing with spiritual dryness, doubt, and temptation.
• Implementing Discipleship Practices: Practical ways to implement discipleship practices in various contexts.

7. Assessments with Descriptions:

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes to test knowledge of key concepts and practices related to spiritual formation.
• Reflection Papers: Written reflections on specific spiritual disciplines and their personal impact.
• Spiritual Formation Plan: Development of a personal spiritual formation plan, including goals and practices.
• 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.
• Discipleship Project: A practical project where students apply discipleship practices in a real-world setting.

8. Research References:

• Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard J. Foster. eBook format. MLA Citation: Foster, Richard J. Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth. HarperOne, 1998.
• Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald S. Whitney. eBook format. MLA Citation: Whitney, Donald S. Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life. NavPress, 2014.
• 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, 1991.
• Invitation to a Journey: A Road Map for Spiritual Formation by M. Robert Mulholland Jr. eBook format. MLA Citation: Mulholland, M. Robert Jr. Invitation to a Journey: A Road Map for Spiritual Formation. InterVarsity Press, 2016.
• The Way of the Heart: Connecting with God Through Prayer, Wisdom, and Silence by Henri J.M. Nouwen. eBook format. MLA Citation: Nouwen, Henri J.M. The Way of the Heart: Connecting with God Through Prayer, Wisdom, and Silence. Ballantine Books, 1981.

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