ETS7010REN - Theological & Missiological Research

Course description

The Theological & Missiological Research course equips students with essential skills for rigorous academic inquiry in theology and missiology. It integrates critical dimensions from both fields, fostering an understanding of theological inquiry and the missio Dei. Students conduct thorough literature reviews, develop well-grounded research questions, and explore biblical and doctrinal foundations. They analyze historical contexts, engage with diverse cultures, and learn ethical research practices. This comprehensive approach prepares students to contribute valuable knowledge and advance both academic scholarship and practical mission work.

How this course benefits students

The course’s emphasis on conducting thorough literature reviews hones students' critical reading and analytical skills, enabling them to identify gaps and trends in current scholarship and to formulate well-grounded research questions. By exploring the biblical and doctrinal underpinnings of theology and missiology, students gain a deeper understanding of the core principles and narratives that shape Christian thought and practice. The historical context component broadens students' perspectives by examining the development of theological ideas and mission practices over time, providing valuable lessons that inform contemporary applications. Cultural engagement resources prepare students to research effective approaches to communicating the gospel in diverse cultural settings, respecting local traditions and languages while maintaining theological integrity. Furthermore, the course's focus on ethical research practices ensures that students learn to conduct their research with integrity, protecting participants' rights and maintaining transparency and accountability. By integrating these dimensions, the course equips students with the necessary skills to contribute meaningful and impactful knowledge to the fields of theology and missiology, enhancing both their academic careers and practical mission efforts.

Why this course is important

The Theological & Missiological Research course is crucial for graduate students as it provides essential skills and knowledge necessary for producing high-quality academic research in theology and missiology. Overall, this course equips graduate students with the comprehensive research skills and ethical foundation needed to contribute significantly to academic scholarship and practical mission in the marketplace and community, making it an indispensable part of their academic and professional development.

How this course relates to missional core values

Biblically based

The Theological & Missiological Research course embodies being Biblically-based by integrating rigorous academic research with a missional perspective grounded in Scripture. Students analyze scholarly literature to understand theological truths within cultural contexts, contributing to a deeper grasp of the mission of God. Ethical research practices ensure integrity in data handling, preparing students to engage effectively and respectfully with diverse communities in communicating the gospel.

Missionally driven

The Theological & Missiological Research course at Missional University reflects the core value of being Missionally-driven. Students engage in understanding the missio dei—the mission of God—applying it in research to identify spiritual transformation opportunities. They explore scholarly literature, historical contexts, and ethics to actively participate in God's mission, locally and globally. This equips them with a deep understanding of missional practices shaped by the missio dei, embodying the missionally-driven ethos of Missional University.

Contextually informed

The Theological & Missiological Research course at Missional University embodies the core value of being Contextually-informed. Students gain tools to analyze local data, developing contextually-appropriate missional approaches. Cultural research shapes their understanding of community needs, enhancing missionally-driven implementations' effectiveness.

Interculturally focused

The Theological & Missiological Research course at Missional University vividly demonstrates the core value of being Interculturally-focused. Students engage with cultural diversity, learning to approach research with sensitivity to diverse contexts and expressions of faith. The curriculum emphasizes embracing cultural differences and fostering authentic expressions of faith, preparing students to communicate effectively in diverse settings. This intercultural focus shapes their understanding of local and global mission.

Practically minded

The Theological & Missiological Research course at Missional University emphasizes being Practically-minded. Students learn theoretical concepts and apply them in real-world missional contexts, developing skills for effective ministry. The curriculum enhances students' personal giftedness, preparing them for unique missional roles. Through hands-on learning, practical exercises, and case studies, students gain insights into missional functions. This practical emphasis ensures graduates are ready to contribute meaningfully to missional ministries and serve effectively in communities.

Experientially transformed

The Theological & Missiological Research course at Missional University embodies the core value of Experientially-transformed learning. It blends theory with practical field practice, fostering transformative growth. Students apply classroom concepts in real-world contexts, reflecting and collaborating within a community of learners. This approach develops ministry and missional skills beyond theory, empowering students to contribute meaningfully. The course encourages theological and missional reflection within lived experiences, providing a holistic understanding of biblically-informed practices. This integration ensures students become effective practitioners in missional and ministry work, bridging knowledge with real-world impact.