MIN Subjects

In this introductory subject, students will explore a broad variety of topics that form the very basis of pastoral ministry. Primarily, students will consider contemporary pastoral models that connect academic reflection with the real world. Topics discussed will range from defining ministry, calling and ordination to conflict resolution, and being effective in caring for others. Students will also be provided with ample opportunity to engage creatively with these topics to make connections with their own contexts.

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

This unit is an introduction to the practice of ministry. It is also an opportunity to overview the biblical and theological foundations of ministry. Common aspects of ministry will be considered.

Outcomes

1. Outline a biblical basis for pastoral ministry;
2. Identify the breadth of issues relevant to pastoral ministry;
3. Describe the convergence of life journey, spiritual experiences and ministry opportunities in developing pastoral ministry
4. Differentiate between various facets of pastoral ministry;
5. Describe pastoral care in line with various relevant models and theories
6. Identify and distinguish pastoral issues as they relate to the well-being of the congregant, pastor, congregation and community

Subject Content

1. Pastoral Care
2. Pastoral Counselling
3. Conflict Resolution
4. Pastoring in Postmodernism
5. Spiritual Health of the Minister
6. Human Sexuality and the Minister
7. Building Effective Structures
8. Calling, Ordination, and Women

Have you ever wished that you could bottle the persuasiveness and power of your favorite preacher in order to supercharge your own sermons and see your congregation transformed? When it comes to sermons, the bridge between the first-century text and twenty-first-century context can often seem longer than 2000-odd years. If you want to discover what turns effective preaching into life-changing preaching and bring revelation to postmodern people that struggle with the Christian story, then look no further. Get ready to be equipped with the rhetorical tools in this unit to craft a message so powerful that it will be impossible for your audience to leave the pews unchanged.

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

This course unit gives an opportunity to develop an understanding and practical application of communicating that has been learned in the foundational theological and biblical units of the first year. The unit addresses the relationship between exegesis and application, and contemporary communication theory and practice.

Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an ability to produce messages based on biblical and cultural exegesis
2. Develop and demonstrate advanced knowledge of contemporary tools and skills related to preaching, in order to deconstruct, modify and strengthen personal preaching skills;
3. Demonstrate an ability to provide in-depth constructive feedback to peer sermon presentations;
4. Demonstrate an understanding both of the contours of the biblical text and how to apply these to the needs of congregations in sermon delivery;
5. Discuss the significance of the place of preaching both within the Pentecostal and wider church traditions;
6. Exhibit an ability to analyze the integration of sermon construction and communication, including the consideration of other Christian perspectives and understandings.