Pastoral Ministry Program
An Emphasis of our Christian Ministry Degree Program
Christian Ministry Core Requirements:
CMIN 2353 INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIAN MINISTRY (3 hrs)
This course is a broad overview of various aspects of Christian ministry. It includes an introduction to missions, pastoral and youth ministries, worship leadership, and educational ministry. The biblical basis, principles, and practices of each area of ministry are examined. The course is designed for students pursuing either vocational or lay ministry.
CMIN 3112 CHRISTIAN SPIRITUAL FORMATION (2 hrs)
This course is a study about Christian spiritual formation, which is the process of being shaped by the Holy Spirit into the likeness of Christ. Studies help students identify how God transforms Christ-followers and what their individual collective responsibilities are in that process. Although much of the course is informative, the ultimate goal is that it will be transformative as students apply what they learn in their own spiritual journey and use what they learn in discipling others.
CMIN 4723 CHRISTIAN MINISTRY COUNSELING (3 hrs)
This course is designed for those in leadership positions. The course is practical and applicable to the counseling problems common to pastors and church leaders.
LEAD 3823 CONCEPTS OF LEADERSHIP (3 hrs)
This course is a study of the concepts of leadership presented in the Scriptures with the goal of maximizing leadership potential.
MISS 3113 PERSPECTIVES ON THE WORLD CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT (3 hrs)
This is an in-depth study of world missions. It includes extensive study of God’s global mission for all every tribe, tongue and nation. This course is offered for credit from the U.S. Center for World Mission and is held in local churches. (With approval from the program director this course can replace the in-class course MISS 3223 Global Ministry).
MISS 3223 GLOBAL MINISTRY (3 hrs)
This is a comprehensive study of missions from four perspectives: Biblical, historical, cultural, and strategic. It provides students of all Christian ministry degree programs the opportunity to intensely study and understand the global mission of God and their responsibilities in it. (With approval from the program director this course can be substituted with MISS 3113 Perspectives on the World Christian Movement.)
Pastoral Ministry Courses:
BIBL 3113 OLD TESTAMENT INTRODUCTION TO CRITICAL ISSUES (3 hrs)
This course is an introduction to the study of the Old Testament with special reference to the history of its interpretation and an examination of the critical problems (date, author, etc.) which relate to it. Attention is also given to the relationship between the literature of the Old Testament and that of the other cultures of that period. Prerequisite: ENGL 1513 and ENGL 1613
BIBL 3213 NEW TESTAMENT INTRODUCTION TO CRITICAL ISSUES (3 hrs)
This course is an introduction to the study of the New Testament with emphasis upon the history of its interpretation and consideration of current debate concerning date, authorship, text, etc. Attention is also given to the theological development presented in the books of the New Testament. Prerequisite: ENGL 1513 and ENGL 1613
CMIN 3113 HOMILETICS (3 hrs)
This course is an in-depth study of the science and art governing the preparation and delivery of sermons. The student is taught the classification of knowledge and the art of applying it through speech communication. Various types of sermons, such as topical, textual, and expository, are prepared and preached. Emphasis is placed upon effective message transmitting and receiving activities.
CMIN 4223 ADVANCED BIBLICAL PREACHING (3 hrs)
This is an advanced course designed to prepare the student for an effective preaching ministry in a local church. Attention is given to the preparation and delivery of various types of Biblical sermons and to the further development of proper speech technique. Attention is also given to planned programs of Biblical preaching. Prerequisite: CMIN 3113.
CMIN 4333 CHURCH PLANTING AND GROWTH (3 hrs)
This course is a study of basic principles and methods of church planting and growth. The study integrates relevant insights from history and sociology with foundational Biblical materials related to development of churches and church-planting movements. Application for ministries within one’s own cultural context and cross-cultural contexts are included in the study. Cross-listed as MISS 4333.
CMIN 4442 MINISTRY INTERNSHIP (3 hrs)
This course is designed to provide the ministerial student with practical experience and on-the-job training through involvement in the work and ministry of a local church on a regular basis. Classroom time is devoted to discussion and analysis of the student’s church involvement. The course may be repeated. Prerequisite: Junior standing or permission of the instructor.
CMIN 4523 MINISTRY CAPSTONE (3 hrs)
This is a contract course in which the student does a ministry project/paper that integrates all degree coursework, practical experiences, and personal preparedness for the transition from college into the next necessary stage for engagement in his or her specific ministry track choice. The student will fulfill this requirement during his or her final semester in the program. The student’s work will be evaluated by the instructor assigned to work with him or her, the program director, Christian ministry department chair, and the Executive Vice President. An oral presentation before the preceding team of educators will be part of this evaluation. Prerequisite: Senior standing and approval of the department chair.
LANG 2113 ELEMENTARY GREEK I (3 hrs)
This course is a study of the basic grammar, syntax, and vocabulary of the Greek language. Emphasis is given to the Greek of the Hellenistic Period. Facility in translation is developed through the use of practice exercises.
LANG 2213 ELEMENTARY GREEK II (3 hrs)
This course is a continuation of Elementary Greek I (LANG 2113). Further attention is given to the development of elementary grammar, vocabulary, and translation skills. Prerequisite: LANG 2113.
LANG 3113 INTERMEDIATE GREEK I (3 hrs)
This course is a study of the vocabulary, grammar, and syntax of the Greek language designed for second year students. Facility in translation is developed through the translation of practice exercises and selected passages from the Greek New Testament and/or other Greek literature. Prerequisite: LANG 2213.
PHIL 4213 ADVANCED APOLOGETICS (3 hrs)
This course is an advanced study of the case for Christianity and a critical evaluation of common objections to Christian truth claims. Attention will be given to theoretical arguments for/against the truth of the Christian faith. Emphasis will also be given to the practical application of the ideas discussed for ministry and personal evangelism. Prerequisite: PHIL 1122 or permission of the instructor.
