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| PentecostalTheology.com
Digital Discipleship is a practical training manual for the use of collaborative online tools, digital storytelling, creative websites, and mobile networking in the ministry of the Church. This course is intended to provide students with a hands-on toolbox for extending their present ministry to the internet world with the intent of soul-saving and discipleship. There are no pre-requisites to this course, and it is open for enrollment to current students or new applicants. This 3-credit-hour, fully online, asynchronous course will take place June 23 to Aug. 10. To register, visit applytolee.com and use the code DIGITAL (case-sensitive) to waive the $25 application fee.
Lee University 2020 Church of God Scholarship Program
Receive a Lee Online student scholarship of $1,000, disbursed over the academic year – Fall, Spring, and Summer. Continuous enrollment is required. Details are important, so here are some of the finer points of this special scholarship offer:
- The scholarship is open to new applicants starting a program in August 2020.
- The $1,000 will be applied evenly over the 2020-2021 academic year (Fall, Spring, Summer), so make sure you stay enrolled to reap the full reward.
- The award can be used towards Lee Online certificate, undergraduate or graduate programs.
- Enroll full-time (two classes per session) or part-time (one class per session).
- It can be combined with the ministry or military/first responders program tuition discounts (but not with other scholarships).
Make sure to use SPIRIT (case-sensitive) as your discount code when you applytolee.com so that we can reserve your scholarship funds.
Ensure Eligibility
Available to newly enrolled Lee Online undergraduate, graduate, or certificate students with a start date of August 18, 2020. May not be combined with any other offers or scholarships.
Register for your scholarship today here: https://leeuniversity.edu/cog/
Charles' Pager
I am genuinely impressed by how Lee University’s Digital Discipleship initiative underscores an essential aspect of modern ministry: adaptability through technological engagement. Scholars like George Barna have noted significant shifts in church dynamics due largely to digital platforms; thus providing tools necessary for effective online discipleship becomes imperative for today’s leaders within Christendom. This program encourages individuals not merely to adapt but to thrive within this new paradigm characterized by mobile connectivity and creative storytelling opportunities—which are critical components identified as necessary features in contemporary missional practices by practitioners such as Tim Chester and Steve Timmis in their writings on church planting strategies. Furthermore, it is commendable that students have no prior requirements; this openness fosters inclusivity which can lead to diverse perspectives enriching discourse throughout the learning process while establishing supportive networks among participants—a characteristic often lacking in traditional settings where competition may overshadow collaboration.
Troy Day
The offering of a Digital Discipleship course at Lee University exemplifies visionary leadership responding adeptly to current cultural shifts impacting faith communities globally—a sentiment echoed by theologians like N.T Wright who encourage believers towards active engagement with their environments through both faith and intellect integration strategies. This curriculum not only seeks immediate applications via digital storytelling but also instills foundational principles critical for nurturing long-term relationships across virtual landscapes—a necessity recognized widely amongst educators advocating holistic approaches towards pastoral training today (as seen in works from various contemporary theologians). By bridging gaps between conventional teachings and modern technologies within a robust academic framework—this initiative promises transformative outcomes not solely limited to individual growth but extending towards revitalization efforts across congregational settings aiming at fulfilling God’s mission effectively amidst evolving contexts characterized often by disconnection among individuals despite physical proximity.
Vernell Waterson
The concept of Digital Discipleship is remarkably timely and necessary in our increasingly digital world. As noted by author C. Michael Patton, the integration of technology within ministry presents both challenges and opportunities for outreach and engagement. The emphasis on practical training with collaborative online tools provides a framework that not only enhances communication but also fosters community among believers. Moreover, the asynchronous nature of the course allows for flexibility, catering to diverse schedules and commitments, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced society. As one navigates through this course, it becomes evident that digital platforms can serve as modern-day mission fields—allowing for the cultivation of relationships that transcend geographical barriers. This aligns with the findings of scholars like Darrell L. Bock, who assert that effective ministry today requires adaptability to technological advancements while remaining rooted in biblical principles. The offering of a scholarship further incentivizes participation, promoting accessibility for individuals eager to enrich their ministerial competencies without financial strain. Overall, this initiative not only equips individuals with essential digital skills but also reaffirms the Church’s commitment to meet people where they are—online.
Chris Crisco
The initiative outlined in the article regarding Digital Discipleship is a timely and necessary response to the evolving landscape of ministry in a digital age. In light of the findings by Anderson and Campbell on the impact of digital media on religious practice, it is imperative for theological education to incorporate practical training that enhances online engagement. This course offers an innovative approach to utilizing digital tools for ministry, enabling participants to not only disseminate religious teachings but also foster genuine community among believers scattered across various platforms. The asynchronous format of this course aligns with contemporary educational trends that prioritize flexibility and accessibility, thus appealing to a wider demographic of learners who may be balancing professional commitments with their spiritual pursuits. Furthermore, as noted by M. Campbell in her analysis of online faith communities, the potential for soul-saving and discipleship through digital storytelling cannot be underestimated. This course equips students with essential skills that transcend traditional boundaries and engage individuals in meaningful ways, ultimately contributing to the growth and vitality of the Church in an increasingly interconnected world. The availability of scholarships further democratizes access to this vital training, ensuring that aspiring ministers can afford these invaluable resources. It is commendable that Lee University has recognized the importance of integrating technology into theological education; this aligns with ongoing discussions about how institutions can better prepare future leaders for effective ministry amidst rapidly changing cultural contexts.
Chris Crisco
The Digital Discipleship course represents a pivotal shift towards integrating technology into ecclesial practices and theological education. Renowned scholars like John Piper emphasize the necessity for contemporary Christians to be equipped not only spiritually but also technologically literate in order to fulfill the Great Commission effectively amidst current societal trends characterized by rapid technological advancements. This course’s design highlights an understanding that ministries must evolve alongside cultural shifts; thus enabling practitioners to utilize mobile networking and collaborative tools can significantly enhance their outreach efforts. Additionally, the scholarship opportunity demonstrates a commitment toward making theological education more accessible—a sentiment echoed by researchers such as Timothy Keller who advocate for equipping laypersons for effective ministry service regardless of financial barriers. By embracing these modern methodologies through hands-on training, participants will cultivate skills vital for facilitating meaningful discipleship relationships online—ultimately contributing toward revitalized church communities equipped to engage an ever-changing world.
Eric
Interesting! Focused mostly on digital aspects in a college course setting. Do you have a bunch of your people taking the course?
Do you do much with the Scriptures and discipleship?
Pastor T
yes it is basically a BIBLICAL disc. course The focus is on Biblical and spiritual growth as the key measure is serving and accountability
Ultimately the course examines discipleship through the whole NT
but most importantly teaches measurable discipleship as a path of life Not some abstract process that leads to no where
And yes we are a fairly large community and all our members undergo the discipleship process from start to finish After all Jesus said MAKE disciples not just GO 🙂
Eric
Sounds like you have a solid process.
Sophia Eldridge
Engaging with Digital Discipleship as an academic endeavor presents an exciting avenue for exploring how technology intersects with spiritual growth and community formation. In their work, authors such as Ed Stetzer have highlighted the importance of innovative methods in church planting and growth; this course embodies such progressive thought by providing a structured approach to utilizing digital storytelling and networking tools effectively. The absence of prerequisites ensures inclusivity, allowing participants from various backgrounds to engage meaningfully with course content. The flexibility offered by asynchronous learning resonates well with contemporary learners who seek balance between personal commitments and educational pursuits, thus expanding access to theological education in unprecedented ways. As we reflect on these developments within ecclesiastical settings, it becomes increasingly clear that fostering digital literacy among church leaders is paramount in ensuring that they remain relevant within a culture heavily influenced by technology. The strategic timing of this course during summer further acknowledges students’ varying schedules while promoting continued engagement in spiritual formation through practical application of learned concepts.