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Diploma in Ministry - outcomes

General learning outcomes

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
· demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the biblical concepts underlying each of the modules completed;
· answer questions and solve problems related to Christian life and doctrine and to many spiritual, personal and relational issues related to life and ministry in church and parachurch settings;
· apply practical skills in Christian teaching, preaching, leadership and pastoral situations;
· collect, analyse, organise, summarise and evaluate information on a broad range of topics from a wide range of sources on theological and ministry issues;
· make appropriate choices by applying a knowledge and understanding of the Bible to situations in daily life;
· help others to understand the content of the Bible, including major doctrines, and to apply biblical principles in their daily lives; and
· exercise self-discipline in study and express knowledge, understanding and suggested applications in a clear, coherent, well-reasoned manner.

Summary of specific learning outcomes

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
· use appropriate study methods and express themselves clearly in writing [0001, 0002 and other modules];
· apply biblical principles of Christian living to their own lives and help others to do the same [1101.2, 1207.2, 3364.2 and various electives];
· describe and appreciate different styles of Christian worship and lead worship services [1101.2 and various electives];
· explain the messages of various Old Testament books, describe a number of Old Testament theological themes, recognise different types of writing in the Old Testament, and explain the relevance of the Old Testament for today [1102.2 or 1122.2];
· explain the nature of the New Testament and the different types of writing that it contains, describe the themes and content of various New Testament books and their cultural background, discuss a selected New Testament theme, and apply New Testament principles to daily life [1103.2 or 1122.2];
· describe key Christian doctrines relating to the Trinity, God the Father, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, salvation, the Church and the last things [1107.2, 1206.2 and various electives];
· discuss the doctrine of salvation, commenting on different understandings, and explain the gospel to others clearly and with increasing confidence [1107.2, and 1205.2 and various other electives];
· give biblical reasons for their belief in the humanity and the divinity of Christ and explain the significance of the person and work of Christ [1107.2 and various electives, especially 1205.2];
· understand the basic principles of biblical interpretation and be able to undertake basic exegesis of the biblical text [1109.2];
· discuss the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the nature and purpose of the fruit and gifts of the Spirit [1206.2];
· use spiritual gifts in personal and public ministry situations [1206.2 and various electives];
· appreciate the complexity of some ethical issues and apply accepted Christian ethical principles to real-life dilemmas [1207.2];
· explain the Christian gospel to others, and understand the nature of Christian ministry, and use gifts and skills sensitively and effectively in ministry settings [3364.2 and various electives];
· understand the servant nature of Christian leadership and use practical strategies for effective Christian leadership with integrity [3364.2 and electives]; and
· use knowledge, understanding and skills effectively in selected areas of ministry [electives].
Note: Competence in many of the above learning outcomes will be increased during Ministry Field Education [3364.2].