We have been in the process of developing new curriculum. Here is some of the rational and purpose.
Our goal is to develop fully devoted followers of Christ–disciples who know and apply the Word of God consistently and faithfully in all areas of life.
This requires faithful biblical teaching and relational connections.
Our curriculum must be designed to provide a foundation (Biblical/Theological/Practical) on which a framework of additional truths can be built–the foundation and truths then do not simply inform our world-view, they form it. Our theology is not simply informed by the Word, but is formed by it. And once our theology and world-view are formed by Scripture–they must be lived with integrity (wholeness).
To that end, the follow explains the driving forces behind our curriculum at
Focus
God’s glory among the nations
The focus of our curriculum is the aim of our mission–to bring glory to God.
Therefore our curriculum content, teacher training and teaching methodology will seek to purposefully teach individuals to glorify God.
Therefore the content of the curriculum is the means, not the end.
Foundations
Knowing God and His Word personally
The foundational elements of our curriculum are a personal relationship with God (salvation) which is developed though a growing knowledge of Him by means of His Word.
Therefore our curriculum content, teacher training and teaching methodology will seek to help individuals understand the Bible’s authenticity, reliability and authority in all areas of life. That it is the primary means by which we can grow in our intimate understanding and passionate love for God and learn how to better respond to Him and His will in the context of community with other believers.
Fundamental Goals (Core Competencies: Know, Be, Do)
The fundamental goals or core competencies of our curriculum aim at transforming the whole person–mind, heart and hands.
Therefore our curriculum content, teacher training and teaching methodology will seek to not only be practical but purposeful.
Therefore, the content of the curriculum is the means, not the end.
Fluency with God’s Word in Life Situations
An understanding of essential core beliefs (theology) and their impact on daily life, not just information but a heart knowledge of God and His Word that produces a fluency with God’s Word in life situation.
Therefore our curriculum content, teacher training and teaching methodology will seek to equip individuals with a meaningful, practical and usable knowledge of the whole of Scripture–equipping individuals to study God’s Word for themselves and in community, with the hope of creating a thirst for God.
Be
Grace transformed hearts motivated to love God and others
Our goal is God centered, Spirit directed lives lived with integrity and purity clothed in humility created by the grace received and therefore freely given.
Therefore our curriculum content, teacher training and teaching methodology will seek to challenge heart change not simply behavioral change resulting in authentic living within community for the sake of others therefore loving God and others with all that we are.
We believe that “being” what God wants us to be requires not only a personal relationship with God, but intentional growth relationships with others, forming a biblical spiritual family. These relationships will grow in availability, authenticity and accountability and will assist individuals through the spiritual transformation process.
Do
Impacting and Influencing others toward Christ
Therefore, the content of the curriculum is the means, not the end.
Framework (Scope and Sequence)
The framework provides structure to our curriculum. For groups that are constantly changing, as in our children’s ministry, the framework is consistent and repeated. For groups that are for the most part constant, as in our adult ministries, the framework will be flexible though always seeking to accomplish what our focus, foundation and fundamentals outline.
