s Christian Education & Discipleship
A DEFINITION Christian Education teaches children, youth, and adults the truth of Jesus Christ and equips them to be in ministry both within and outside the church. As people's lives are transformed by Christ's love, they understand the responsibility of using their gifts for the good of all people.
Discipleship Teaching Content Life-Changing Experiences
We need measurable results in terms of changed lives! Church needs a clear path that leads to discipleship. People are willing to step up to wherever the bar is set! ROOTED!
Significance of Christian Education CE Program must fits the needs of the church environment and the congregation. One size does not fit all. Pastor and church leaders must consider age, traditions and community. Vision/Mission of the church must be considered.
Characteristics of Christian Education Provides Religious Instruction Allows for Community Socialization Encourages Personal Development Aids Spiritual Growth of Church
The Purpose of Christian Education
The Purpose of Christian Education Why? Ex 18:20, Deut 4:1, Matt 28:19 (Great Commission), John 21:15-17 We are commanded in scripture by Jesus himself to teach. We have a responsibility to feed the sheep. Jesus asked, Peter do you love me? Feed my sheep!
The Purpose of Christian Education Who? I Cor 2:1-16, Luke 12:12, John 14:26 The Holy Spirit is the Teacher!
The Purpose of Christian Education What? Psalm 51:13, Matt 4:23, Mark 6:34, Acts 5:42, 15:35, Col 3:16 The foundation is always the Word of God
The Purpose of Christian Education How? Col 3:23, 2Tim 2:2, John 3:2 Heartily operating in excellence! 2 Tim 2:2: duplication Preacher/Teacher model Jesus Christ The Master Teacher
The Preparation for Christian Education
Step One: Know Your Vision and Mission What specifically for your church? What do you value?
Step Two: Assess Where You are Now Pressing congregational needs? Statistical data (education, where live?) Size of congregation
Step Three: Identify Points of Strength What works for your church? What resources do you have? People Literature Church partners
Step Four: Initiate a Training Program Teacher Training program Bible Basics Teacher certification In-Service Training Team teaching Mentoring
Step Five: Execute Your Plan Evaluate giftings Designate leadership Establish long term goals/plans
Step Six: Evaluate, Evaluate, Evaluate! Must be on-going! Be sensitive to changes in community, population shifts. Immediately evaluate program lapses.
The Practice of Christian Education What is in Place at FBCG?
FBCG Education and Training Ministries Training Group Children s Discipleship Connections Evangelism Outreach The Institutes Sunday School Vacation Bible School
FBCG Education and Training Ministries Health & Wellness Group Cancer Support Crisis Care B.O.D.Y. by Christ Fitness Ministry Healing Transition and Bereavement Health Life Builders Turning Point
FBCG Education and Training Ministries Academics and Empowerment Group Aviation Christian Business Education Employment Legal Political Information Network Tutoring
Other FBCG Educational Opportunities Teaching Ministries (Men, Women, Youth, Singles, etc.) Discipleship Ministries (Men, Women, Couples and Youth) Mentoring Ministries
Other Educational Opportunities College/University Partnerships: Denver Seminary Regent University Capitol Seminary/Lancaster Bible College Project Bridges Community Outreach (Shabach! Empowerment Center classes, etc.) National Capital Christian Education Conference (formerly GWCEA)
Christian Education Leads to True Discipleship
A DEFINITION Discipleship is modeling and teaching the precepts of Christian living with exposure to the knowledge of the truth with a goal of the application of it into one s life. Educating, Equipping, and Empowering
What New Members Want to Know Do I fit in here? Acceptance Does anyone want to know me? Friendship Am I needed here? Value Advantage of belonging? Benefit What is required? Expectations
Quarterly Connections Fellowship
ALPHA Course Geared toward new believers but open to all, covers the basic principles of Christianity in a relaxed, engaging environment. Provides A Time to Connect While They Learn!
The Connected Church Why do members stay? They are involved They feel cared for They are in a loving environment They are able to use their gifts and talents
Other workshops TODAY that you might want to choose: Women s Ministry Panel Men s Ministry Panel Children s Ministry Panel Youth Ministry
Reverend Esther L. Gordon Department Head, Education and Training First Baptist Church of Glenarden Email: egordon@fbcglenarden.org Phone: 301-773-3600 Thank you! It has been a pleasure to serve you!