Date

11-13-2025

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Chair

Andrea Michelle Burson

Keywords

bible curriculum, Christian education, discipleship framework, transformational learning, transactional learning, pedagogy

Disciplines

Practical Theology | Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Abstract

The problem at Holy Ground Christian Academy is that its approach to senior-level Bible classes is transactional rather than transformational for life and godliness. With parents feeling pressured to find effective educational options for their children and teachers facing growing demands from administrative duties, education urgently needs a new vision. Parents want their children to succeed and leave a lasting impact on society, while educators seek purpose in their careers. Modern educational trends push schools toward a utilitarian, transactional approach to learning, and private Christian college-preparatory schools are no exception. Within the Christian college-preparatory setting, Bible classes often struggle with conflicting educational messages.

This action research project seeks to refocus on spiritual formation by implementing a theologically robust discipleship framework, beginning with senior-level Bible classes. The implementation involves partnering with leadership, revising resources, creating new paradigms, establishing a new classroom liturgy, re-evaluating grading philosophies, and updating pedagogical practices. This intervention uses convenient and purposive sampling to gather insights from students, families, and education experts. Through focus groups, panel discussions, and questionnaires, the data will support the proposed method of biblical education, inspiring a broader application of Christian teaching across disciplines. The principles developed in this thesis are adaptable across various subjects and contexts. Drawing on biblical principles, systematic theology, and discipleship patterns, this study presents a model for biblical education that can inspire a broader, transformative application of Christian education across diverse fields.

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