At FirstChurch University, we believe Christian education and spiritual formation is an ongoing and lifelong process. That’s why we’ve developed this Discipleship Guide to help you plan and prepare for courses you’ll take in coming semesters. Several different courses of study have been carefully designed to address the spiritual and theological needs of adults at all stages of faith development. You may decide to focus on one course of study for the entire 2-year program, possibly completing the FirstSteps to discipleship or participating in an in-depth curriculum offered in three parts. Or you may choose to explore different courses of study, depending on the specific classes that appeal to you. In the end, our hope is that you find yourself in a different place than you began – more deeply rooted in your faith through intentional study, spiritual disciplines and building relationships with the community of believers. Members of Adult Education Council
FirstStep Invitational Study:
Fall 2013: FirstStep to the Old Testament (8 weeks) Spring 2014: FirstStep to Christian History Fall 2014: FirstStep to the New Testament Spring 2015: FirstStep to United Methodism
“We can learn about Christianity through a multitude of media. What our FirstStep course of study does is invites you to take the Bible seriously and to understand the tenets of Christianity. These short courses may help you take a FirstStep in growing your faith.� - Dr. Andy Stoker, Senior Minister www.firstchurchdallas.org/firstchurchuniversity
FirstStep Invitational Study
For people who are new to the Christian faith, new to United Methodism, have never taken a Bible study or are not quite ready to commit to an in-depth Bible study.
In-Depth Bible Study: For people who want to plunge into more in-depth Bible study that involves daily readings and an intense focus on specific books of the Bible. The curriculum is based off a 30-week study that is broken into three consecutive semesters. The course of study will conclude with a semester focused on spiritual disciplines.
In-Depth Bible Study
Fall 2013: Jesus in the Gospels Part 1 (11 weeks) Spring 2014: Jesus in the Gospels Part 2 (10 weeks) Fall 2014: Jesus in the Gospels Part 3 (10 weeks) Spring 2015: Prayer Study
“If you want to follow Jesus, you have to know who he is.” – Rev. Tom Downing, Minister of Senior Adult Education
For people who want to learn more about the theological foundations of the Christian faith, so they can engage in theological studies and discussions at a deeper level. This course of study is based on a 30-week curriculum, which is broken down into three consecutive semesters. The courses will conclude with a study focused on spiritual disciplines. Fall 2013: Core Christianity Part 1 (11 weeks) Spring 2014: Core Christianity Part 2 (10 weeks) Fall 2014: Core Christianity Part 3 (10 weeks) Spring 2015: Prayer Study
“If I can’t put it into words, I need to hone my idea. This study will help me do that with my faith and how it steers the way I live.” – Allen Mabry, Adult Studies Leader www.firstchurchdallas.org/firstchurchuniversity
Foundational Christian Concepts
Foundational Christian Concepts:
Continuing Bible Study and Spiritual Disciplines
Continuing Bible Study and Spiritual Disciplines: For people who have previously engaged in Bible studies, and are looking for more concentrated biblical studies on specific books or concepts. These courses will also focus on a continued development of other spiritual disciplines such as prayer, worship, generosity, hospitality and creative ways of connecting with God and neighbor. Fall 2013: Living Prayer Course (7 weeks) Spring 2014: Bible Study – Old Testament focus Fall 2014: Spiritual Discipline Study Spring 2015: Bible Study – New Testament focus
“In my experience faith is dynamic. It will grow and change and mature over time if we are willing to engage in regular and sustained Bible study and prayer.” – Diane Bricker, Chair of Adult Education Council
For people who want to engage in spiritual and intellectual study of theology and Christian ideals. These courses will include a focus on both classical and new theological concepts and writings, Christian ethics, and the mission of the Church in the world. The length of courses will vary based on the books chosen. Fall 2013: Church and Society (5 weeks) and A Graceless Culture (3 weeks) Spring 2014: Christian Ethics Fall 2014: Contemporary Christian Issues Spring 2015: Elective
“Continued theological study invites us to explore and engage our faith in navigating the complexities of life, while encouraging us to get involved with what God is doing in the world.” – Rev. Becky Walker, Minister of Adult Education www.firstchurchdallas.org/firstchurchuniversity
Continuing Christian Concepts
Continuing Christian Concepts:
In addition to the 2-year courses of study, there will also be an offering of Companions in Christ, where participants explore various spiritual disciplines and practices to deepen their personal relationship with Christ in community with fellow small group members. The course will run consecutively for 28 weeks, beginning each new fall term.
1928 Ross Avenue Dallas, Texas 75201 214-220-2727 www.firstchurchdallas.org/firstchurchuniversity Dr. Andrew C. Stoker Senior Minister FirstChurch University is a creation of the Adult Education Council.