Details for Discipleship

This subject examines the importance of discipleship to create mature Christians. It will examine it from biblical, theological, and historical perspectives. As well as discuss and critique different discipleship models for the church today. 

Awards offering Discipleship

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

• Bachelor of Contemporary Ministry

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

This subject examines the importance of discipleship to create mature Christians. It will examine it from biblical, theological, and historical perspectives. As well as discuss and critique different discipleship models for the church today. 

Outcomes

1.        Demonstrate an advanced knowledge of the biblical, historical and theological foundations of            discipleship

2.        Explain the importance of discipleship in the practice of Christian Ministry

3.        Analyse the process for growth in Christian maturity to identify key factors that can assist or              impede

4.        Critique models that show the phases involved in the process of growth in Christian maturity

5.        Explain the spiritual, interpersonal and social dynamics of discipleship in a New Zealand bi-              cultural context.

6.      Critique various strategies of discipleship in contemporary congregations

Subject Content

Theological Persepctives of discipleship

Historical perspectives of discipleship

Biblical persepctives of discipleship

Discipling new Christians

Stages of faith development

Discipleship in childhood

Discipleship in adolescence and emerging adulthood

Discipleship and ageing

Discipleship in different needs contexts

Mentoring in the Christian faith

Interpersonal and social dynamics of discipleship within New Zealand in a bi-cultural context

Cultural dynamics relating to Pacifica and non-western societies, churches and families

Case studies

This course may be offered in the following formats

e-learning (online)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis College.

Assessment Methods

Major Essay (50%, 2500 words), Book review (20%, 1250 words), Student blog reflection (30%, 3000 words)

Prescribed Text

Readings are provided on Moodle

Representative References

Barna, G. Growing True Disciples: New Strategies for Producing Genuine Followers of Christ. Colorado Springs, CO: WaterBrook Press, 2001.

Bennett, R. Intentional Disciplemaking: Cultivating Spiritual Maturity in the Local Church. Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 2001.

Boa, K. Conformed to His Image: Biblical and Practical Approaches to Spiritual Formation. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2001.

Bridges, J. Growing Your Faith: How to Mature in Christ. Colorado Springs. CO: NavPress, 2002.

Dunahoo Charles, H. Making Kingdom Disciples: A New Framework. Phillipsburg, NJ: P& R Publishing, 2005.

Lovelace, R. Dynamics of Spiritual Life. Downers Grove:  IVP Academic, 1979.

Lowes, D. Forming Christian Disciples: The Role of Covenant Discipleship and Class Leaders in the Congregation. Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock, 2002.

Malphurs, A. Strategic Disciple Making: A Practical Tool for Successful Ministry. Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 2009.

Murrell, S. Wikichurch. Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House, 2011.

Ortberg, J. The Life you’ve Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People. Grand rapids: Zondervan, 2002.

Peterson, E. A Long Obedience in the Same Direction. Downers Grove: Intervarsity Press, 2000.

Watson, K. M. Blueprint for Discipleship: Wesley’s General Rules as a Guide for Christian Living. Nashville: Discipleship Resources, 2009.

Webber, R. Ancient-Future Evangelism: Making Your Church a Faith-Forming Community. Grand Rapids: Baker, 2003.

Willard, D. The Great Omission. San Francisco: HarperCollins, 2006.

Wilson, J. Future Church: Ministry in a Post –Seeker Age. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman, 2004.

Journals:

Dialog

Discipleship Journal

Journal of Biblical Literature