This course explores the longstanding question of Christian participation, engagement, and witness in culture. It will consider biblical perspectives on what culture is and how believers are related to it. Readings and lectures will survey prominent answers to this question in church history, as well as the theological views on creation and redemption, nature and grace, church and politics, work and vocation, and the creative arts, especially in our contemporary age. The goal is a more faithful and effective ministry in our culture.

The purpose of this course is to develop and refine skills for doctoral research and writing by means of addressing a wide range of topics and issues.  Students will increase their abilities in technical matters including structure, format, style, syntax, grammar, and proper citation of sources while also refining skills in logic, biblical exegesis and hermeneutics, and the use of digital resources such as the online library holdings and Logos Bible Software.  Particular attention is also given to the requirements for the Doctor of Ministry Major Project and the intersection of academic, theological, and ministerial considerations. Together, these categories work to inform and accomplish the overarching aim of this course, which is to understand how scholarly research and writing is a pastoral vehicle for declaring and demonstrating the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

This course examines the relationship of the Gospel to obedience. It considers the theological virtues of faith, hope, and love. It then addresses the role of the law as a framework for Christian life, noting the impact of redemptive-historical and cultural shifts in our appropriation of the law.