Courses: DOCTRINE

An assistant spreads the Good News. In order to do so in a proper manner, he or she should have a good understanding of the "whole will of God" (Acts 20:27). Therefore, an assistant will be eager to constantly increase in his or her understanding of Christian teaching or doctrine.

Other courses in the Congregational Assistant Program curriculum take up specific doctrines of Scripture -- Church and Ministry, Law and Gospel, etc. This course is intended to give an overview of all the main doctrines of Scripture. At present we recommend that you choose from one of the following three options for completing this requirement.

1. Review Christian Doctrine by attending your pastor's adult instruction class.

While most of the people in these classes are studying Scripture in order to join the congregation, they are also very profitable for present members. The assistant who attends will deepen his or her  own knowledge of Scripture and will also be able to speak first hand about how the class is conducted.

2. A Disciple's Dialog with Doctrine, (by Paul Kelm, NPH).

This course is part of the Training Christians for Ministry series. It is a good overview of Christian doctrine in a somewhat less traditional way. The leader's and student 's manuals are both available from Northwestern Publishing House. This would be a good option for a student who has recently attended the pastor's adult class and would prefer a different learning experience.

3. Christian Doctrine 1 (6020) and 2 (6050), Prof. Lyle Lange

This two-part course from Martin Luther College would be appreciated by students who want a very in-depth study of Christian doctrine. Each of the two parts can earn 3 college credits, and requires extensive reading, as well as viewing video-taped classroom sessions. Please check the college website http://www.mlc-wels.edu for information on the cost of these courses.