Professors: Jim West, Reddit Andrews III, Eric D. Bristley

All theology is practical. It is necessary for students to learn how to apply their knowledge of God's Word to minister to the church of Jesus Christ. Learning how to preach, teach, evangelize, and grow the church is essential to ministerial preparation.

PT531 PASTORAL THEOLOGY

Provides a Biblical and theological overview of the nature of the gospel ministry. Special attention will be given to the idea of "call" versus "vocation," the nature of Biblical worship, the Word of God as a means of grace, the centrality and importance of preaching, and the contribution of the pastor's life to his ministry. (2 hours. Not open to women students).

PT561 PASTORAL MINISTRY

Considers the routines of daily pastoral ministry, including ministering to the sick and dying, visitation, conducting weddings and funerals, working with a Consistory, record-keeping (church records and personal finances), maintaining correspondence, and study habits. (3 hours. Not open to women students). 

PT601 HERMENEUTICS

An examination of the history and principles of Biblical interpretation. Special attention will be given to the analogy of faith (i.e., "comparing Scripture with Scripture") and the grammatico-historical method (2 hours. Prerequisite: ST591).

PT611 HOMILETICS

A look at the Biblical approach to preparing sermons, including a study of the types of sermons, outline structure, illustrations, applications and the dynamics of delivery. (1 hour. Prerequisite: PT601. Not open to women students).

PT621 PREACHING PRACTICUM I

Practice in preparing and delivering sermons. Each student will prepare written sermons and sermon outlines, as well as preach three times per semester. (1 hour. Prerequisite: PT611. Not open to women students).

PT622 PREACHING PRACTICUM II

See the description of PT621. (1 hour. Prerequisite: PT611. Not open to women students).

PT711 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION AND DISCIPLESHIP

A study of the purpose and method of training men, women and children to be followers of Christ. (2 hours).

PT731 EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS

A study in the theology and methods of evangelism. Emphasis will be given to developing an evangelistic outreach for the local church. Attention will also be given to the methodology of missions. (2 hours).