Work and Economics in Theological Education:
At the curricular integration workshop we held during Acton University, we handed out a batch of sample syllabi illustrating possible ways to integrate work and economics into the seminary curriculum. The syllabi, available below, cover a wide variety of areas from Bible scholarship and social ethics, to church leadership and spiritual formation. We hope these innovative examples will inspire you to seek your own ways of pursuing curricular integration.
This list is only the beginning. In the semester that just ended, ON programs intersected with a total of 50 classes on 11 campuses, enrolling 748 students. The network will continue to explore new opportunities for curricular integration, striving to uncover connections to work and economics in every discipline, and preparing future pastors to understand this critical sphere of human life. To download these documents, click here.
1. Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, Charlie Self: Relational Dynamics of Leadership
2. Azusa Pacific University, Tim Finlay: Old Testament Seminar – Issues in Social Justice
3. Beeson Divinity School, Mark DeVine: Wealth, Poverty and the Church
4. Biola – Talbot School of Theology, various: Spiritual Formation Syllabus Template
5. Biola – Talbot School of Theology, Scott Rae: Church and Society (regular & online versions)
6. Denver Seminary, David Buschart & Don Payne: Theology of Work
7. Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Brent Waters: Globalization and Christian Ethics
8. Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, David Gill: Entrepreneurship in Church and Community
9. Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, Stephen Grabill & Matt Zainea: Christian Social Ethics
10. Nazarene Theological Seminary, Dean Blevins: Adult Faith and Vocational Discipleship
11. Pepperdine University, Kenneth Elzinga (visiting): Christianity and Economics (This is not a seminary class, but it includes extensive biblical and theological study.)
12. Reformed Theological Seminary-Orlando, Orlando Rivera (visiting): A Theology of Work (Rivera has also taught the same class at Alliance Theological Seminary.)
13. Seattle Pacific University, Bruce Baker: Burning Issues Topic: Spiritual Capital
14. Sioux Falls Seminary, Jay Moon: Faith, Business and Money
15. Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Chad Brand: Religion in the Public Square
16. Trinity International University, Bruce Fields: Faith, Work, Economics and the Church
17. Trinity International University, Laurie Matthias: Christian Wisdom on Vocation
