M.Div. – Chaplain Ministry

Distinctives of various types of biblical literature, with an emphasis on interpretation and contemporary application. Topics: historical narrative, psalm, wisdom, parable, epistle, prophecy and apocalypse. An integrated understanding of origins with God as creator (cosmogony) is introduced as background for proper exegesis of the biblical text.

Contents, themes, and genres of the New Testament canon; methodologies for interpreting the texts in light of their historical contexts.

Contents, themes, and genres of the Old Testament canon; methodologies for interpreting the texts in light of their historical contexts.

Biblical revelation in its historical context, resulting in a broad overview of the message of the Bible and the skills associated with interpreting representative texts.

Biblical theology using the Pauline correspondence within its historical context. Covers the leading themes of Pauline theology, drawn from Paul’s writings.

An overview of Church history from the time of Christ to the Pre-Reformation.  Special attention is given to the growth and development of the church in historical context, major Christian thought leaders, the advancement of the Gospel, and renewing work of the Holy Spirit.

An overview of Church history from the Reformation to the modern era.  Special attention is given to the historical context for the Reformation, leading thought leaders of pre- and post-Reformation times, the historical development of major Christian doctrine and spirituality, and the modern Renewal Movement.

Biblical and theological foundations to understand the mission of God (missio dei) with focus on reaching the unreached, discipling new believers, establishing the Kingdom of God, and building his Church.

Christian mission from the time of the apostles to today, including the expansion of Christianity, setbacks, internal and external challenges of the Church, and the influence of Christianity on the contemporary world. Primary emphasis on the translatability of the gospel and obedience to God’s mission today.

Foundational biblical principles of church leadership and life with an emphasis on team ministry. Examines key ministry practices as foundations for church renewal and revitalization. Recommended as a prerequisite to other ministry courses.

Systematic approach to developing biblical messages that are driven by genuine human need, sound biblical exegesis and by clear, specific application of biblical truth to the lives of hearers. Focus is on preparing transformational messages that communicate biblical life and truth.

Strategies for effective emotional and spiritual healing in the unique context of the Church. Presents models for biblically based, spiritually-gifted strategies to address key issues as an integrated part of the mentoring and disciple-making process.

Biblical, theological, and philosophical foundations of chaplaincy.  Emphasis includes the Constitutional foundations and functional areas (community, education, health care, military, etc.), institutional functions (providing, facilitating, caring, advising, etc.), and roles (priest, prophet, ethical advisor, counselor, staff member, etc.) of a chaplain.

Successful application of biblical, Christian, Evangelical beliefs and practices in secular chaplaincy environments. Explores engaging other ethical/faith schemas, practical methods for providing substantive input in general fields (behavioral, financial, relational, institutional, etc.) and specialized fields (bio-ethics, conflict/war, medical research, etc.); and chaplain’s roles (exemplar, confidant, teacher, encourager, cautioner, revealer, healer).

Considers the chaplain’s missional ministry and personal role as an institutional resident; institutional structures, functions, missions, dynamics, relationships, and leadership; and mediating ministries such as ethics and character training, personal growth, marriage enrichment, team building, suicide prevention, etc.

Considers critical incidents affecting personnel such as violence, injuries, deaths, and remains recovery; major mishaps (travel, industrial, residential, structures, etc.); natural disasters; civil disorder; war; institutional turmoil and conflict; etc.  Addresses faith integration with debriefing methodologies; ministry of presence and comfort; public ceremonies; cross-discipline cooperation and integration of effort.

Considers chaplain’s dual identity and role in military institutions, emphasizing ministry as primary. Examines theology, philosophy, and ethics of conflict and war; Constitutional and legal viewpoints of chaplain’s status and practices; dynamics of training, operations, deployment, combat, and retrenchment; staff officer requirements and practices; endorsement identity, maintenance, and practice.

Considers nine “functional areas” of chaplaincy as secularizing societies recognize the benefits of chaplaincy in various venues: community; crisis and disaster relief; education; healthcare; institutional and government; public safety, recreation, sports, workplace. Considers each area’s background, functions, ethos, people, and needs.  Explores fruitful ministry paths, planning, and provision.

Examines the biblical, historical, and theological aspects of Christian formation, including the holistic and other models, with emphasis on both personal life and ministry contexts. Taken in the first semester of degree and begins the Spiritual Formation Portfolio.

Key tenets and central doctrines of the Christian faith. Special focus on biblical foundations, historical developments, theological method, and major controversies and confessions.

Systematic presentation of the Christian understanding of the Holy Spirit, including current approaches to the operation of the Spirit in Roman Catholic theology, the mission of the Spirit in Protestant theology, and the anointing of the Spirit in the renewal movements.

Biblical and theological foundations that determine the formation of Christian moral decision-making and shape a personal lifestyle. Examines selected contemporary moral issues in the light of biblical teachings. Includes an overview of the prophetic call to the community, the marketplace and nation to mobilize the Church in addressing crucial social issues.

An  online  two-credit  course  designed  to  help  acclimate students to Regent University and online learning. It will provide the knowledge, resources and essential skills needed for success  at  the  graduate  level. Topics  include  academic  writing,  online  learning,  information  literacy,  and  advising  and support services. It may be required for some students as a condition of admission, and may substitute for UNIV LIB Information Research and Resources and/or ENGL 500 Graduate Academic Writing Seminar.