Leadership, Ethics & Citizenship Department

LEC501‒ Ministerial Leadership & Ethics

Required for MDiv― 4 credits, rigorous. No Prerequisite.

For far too long, the plumb-line of leadership has tended to center around outward appearance, personality type and marketing effectiveness. But as Christian leaders, we are called to return to scripture for leadership guidance.

This course presents a scriptural analysis of the philosophy, history, qualifications, preparation, and practice of Christian leadership. The starting point and framework for each discussion is scripture, thus merging scriptural mandates with leadership principles. Expect a broad and deep discussion of what it means to be responsible for a group of followers.

The extensive and comprehensive course brings much insight, yet the text is easy to read and digest. Charts, diagrams and illustrations enhance this well-tested and taught study on Christian leadership.

Scripture and introspection come together powerfully to allow the best and blessed leader within you to emerge. DETAILS

LEC502‒ Theological Roots of the U.S. Constitution

Elective for MDiv or DMin― 4 credits, sizable. No Prerequisite.

Biblical principles and Christian thought have profoundly influenced the founding of the American republic. This course examines how the theology of America’s Founding Fathers helped shape key constitutional ideals in areas such as law, liberty, human dignity, and moral responsibility.

Students will examine primary documents and the lives of key founders to uncover the theological convictions behind the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. The course also considers how a Christian worldview informed the separation of powers, checks and balances, and protections for religious and civil liberties.

By tracing the spiritual, moral and philosophical vision that undergirded the U.S. Constitution, students will better understand the rights and responsibilities of Christian citizenship and the enduring impact of biblical principles on public life and governance. DETAILS

Doctorate-Level Course

LEC601‒ Biblical Ethics and Contemporary Issues

Required for MDiv― 3 credits, rigorous. No Prerequisite.

This course equips pastors and ministers to approach contemporary ethical issues thoughtfully, avoiding quick judgments based on tradition, emotion, peer influence, or selective media biases.

Emphasizing a solid biblical foundation for decision-making, students explore ethical systems, the use of Scripture in ethics, approaches to justification, Christian liberty, ethical decision-making procedures, the Christian response to secular government, and six key from the textbook.

Students will learn to evaluate arguments in light of Scripture and logic, and examine biblical perspectives on social controversies such as abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, war, civil disobedience, and issues of sex and marriage.

Integrating research, case studies, and ethical frameworks, the course develops the skills needed to navigate ethical dilemmas, form well-grounded conclusions, and lead others with biblical integrity.

Covering approximately half of the textbook topics and content, the course prepares students to use the remaining material as a reference for future study. STRUCTURE: 2 chapters‒ quiz, 8 chapters‒ workbook-style. DETAILS

Degree Completion Leadership

LEC510‒ Master’s Thesis

Required for MDiv― 3 credits, rigorous, must have earned MDiv 45 credits.

Researching and writing a thesis is a standard requirement in MDiv degrees for all seminaries for a number of reasons. Perimeters will be provided upon registration for the thesis.

DETAILS

LEC610‒ Doctoral Dissertation

Required for DMIn― 4 credits, rigorous, must have earned DMin 40 credits.

Researching and writing a doctrinal dissertation is a standard requirement in all DMin degrees for a number of reasons. Contact academic adviser for perimeter details.

DETAILS

LEC612‒ Doctorate Practicum Internship

Practicums allow doctoral students to participate in an ongoing ministry in order to bring training as well as new and deeper perspective through practical and substantial experience.

Students generally suggest the ministry type and specific ministry to be involved. Additionally, students may request a position in their own church, a nearby church, or within a town or city they can temporarily reside in at their own expense. Contact the seminary to inquire and discuss details.

Credit hours vary between 1 and 3 depending on the specific ministry program and student role within the ministry. Pre-requisites: LEC601 plus 40 hours of credits earned. DETAILS