Religion
Faculty/Staff
Joaquim Azevedo, Chair; William Kilgore, Jorge Rico, Ingo Sorke
Adjunct: Russ Laughlin, Theodore Stewart, Lloyd Willis
Aims of the Department
Religious Education at Southwestern Adventist University facilitates the understanding, appreciation, and application of:
- the Bible
- a Christian worldview
- Seventh-day Adventism
Specifically, our theological training emphasizes a Christ-centered and Bible-based education on campus, in the classroom, and in the community, balancing theory and practice and harmonizing the dynamics of the local church and global mission within a specifically Seventh-day Adventist context. We integrate a multifaceted matrix of Inspiration - Implication - Implementation - Involvement.
Programs
Besides providing courses designed to develop religious insights and skills in all students of the University, the department offers several programs to meet specific needs:
- B.A. Theology
- B.A. Religion
- Minors in Religion, Biblical Languages
- Certificate in Church Ministry
- Bible Worker Certification Program
Religion, B.A.
| RELT 101 | Christian Beliefs | 3 |
| RELT 207 | Research in Religion | 1 |
| RELB 211 | Life and Teachings | 3 |
| RELP 220 | Christian Witnessing | 3 |
| RELH 230 | History of the SDA Church | 3 |
| RELB 313 | Prophetic Studies | 3 |
| RELH 331 | History of Christianity I | 3 |
| RELH 332 | History of Christianity II | 3 |
| RELB 410 | Biblical Studies Seminar I or | |
| RELB 411 | Biblical Studies Seminar II | 3 |
| REL* | Electives | 9 |
| Total: | 34 |
| Electives to be selected from the following courses: |
| RELB 315 | Old Testament I | 3 |
| RELB 316 | Old Testament II | 3 |
| RELB 339 | New Testament I: The Gospels | 3 |
| RELB 340 | New Testament II: The Letters | 3 |
Theology, B.A.
| RELT 101 | Christian Beliefs | 3 |
| RELT 207 | Research in Religion | 1 |
| RELB 211 | Life and Teachings | 3 |
| RELP 220 | Christian Witnessing | 3 |
| RELH 230 | History of the SDA Church | 3 |
| RELB 313 | Prophetic Studies | 3 |
| RELH 320 | Ellen White Writings | 3 |
| RELP 323 | Homiletics I | 3 |
| RELP 324 | Homiletics II | 3 |
| RELH 332 | History of Christianity II | 3 |
| RELT 405 | Biblical Theology | 3 |
| RELB 410 | Biblical Studies Seminar I or | |
| RELB 411 | Biblical Studies Seminar II | 3 |
| RELP 423 | Pastoral Ministry I | 3 |
| RELP 424 | Pastoral Ministry II | 3 |
| RELP 425 | Field Evangelism | 3 |
| RELP 427 | Hospital Ministry | 1 |
| REL* | Electives | 9 |
| Total: | 53 |
| Electives to be selected from the following courses: |
| RELB 315 | Old Testament I | 3 |
| RELB 316 | Old Testament II | 3 |
| RELB 339 | New Testament I: The Gospels | 3 |
| RELB 340 | New Testament II: The Letters | 3 |
Required cognates:
| COMM111 | Fundamentals of Speech | 3 |
| HIST 331 | History of Christianity I | 3 |
| PSYC 212 | General Psychology | 3 |
A Biblical Languages Minor is required to complete the Theology Program and for Seminary entrance.
Recommended Cognates:
| ACCT 211 | Accounting Principles I | 3 |
| BUAD 120 | Personal Finance | 3 |
| BUAD 301 | Principles of Management | 3 |
| EDUC 385 | Philosophy of Education | 3 |
| HIST 364 | Ancient Cultures | 3 |
Minor in Biblical Languages
| RELL 240, 241 | New Testament Greek I, II | 9 |
| RELL 340 | Intermediate New Testament Greek | 3 |
| RELL 343, 344 | Biblical Hebrew I, II | 6 |
| RELH 314 | Origin & Development of the Bible | 3 |
| Total: | 21 |
Minor in Religion
| RELT 101 | Christian Beliefs | 3 | |
| RELB 211 | Life and Teachings of Jesus | 3 | |
| RELIGION | Electives | 6 | |
| Select any two classes from the following: | |||
| RELB 313 | Prophetic Studies | ||
| RELB 315, 316 | Old Testament I, II | ||
| RELB 339 | New Testament I: The Gospels or | ||
| RELB 340 | New Testament II: The Letters | 6 | |
| Total: | 18 |
Ministerial Program
The department welcomes persons who sense a call to full-time ministry, and who are moved to offer their lives in this avenue to God and humanity. The faculty assists applicants who wish to evaluate and deepen their experience as well as to explore the expanding opportunities for service. The department will not recommend to the ministry any student who has not completed the course of study as outlined or who has a GPA that is less than 2.5, which is the minimum requirement for entrance to the SDA Theological Seminary. It is the student’s personal responsibility to plan a course of study that includes all requirements for degree sought.
Completion of the major in Theology meets the guidelines stipulated by the Adventist Church and the minimal requirements for admission to the Seminary and entrance into the ministry.
B.A. in Theology
This program is designed to prepare pastors who are able to integrate theological knowledge with pastoral training for excellence in ministry. Emphasis is placed on such areas as biblical understanding and personal application, church leadership and administration, evangelism, and pastoral service to the church.
The program in pastoral ministry is focused on facilitating the development of the student as a:
- Growing Christian
- Church Leader/Administrator
- Pastor-Teacher and Equipper
- Pastor-Servant
- Soul Winner
This program follows a special two-stage composite sequence, each stage approximately two years in length. During the first stage (freshman and sophomore years), attention is concentrated on fulfilling the requirements of the core curriculum of the University, together with introductory Religion classes. During the sophomore year, students begin the study of New Testament Greek, and apply for acceptance into the Pastoral Ministry Certification Program. Benefits of membership in the program include eligibility for higher departmental scholarships, an official departmental certificate and participation in the pastoral internship program, and increased likelihood of future employment by a conference. It also grants preferred opportunities for summer ministry opportunities.
The second stage (junior and senior years) provides for completion of requirements for the bachelor of arts degree, including specific professional studies. It is also the period when the student becomes more involved in practical aspects of ministerial training.
One goal of the Religion Department is to prepare students to commence service as pastors. Conference presidents seek graduates from Southwestern Adventist University who will be able to function as pastor-evangelists immediately upon graduation. For this reason, it is required that theology students complete Field Evangelism (RELP 425), preferably during the summer prior to taking Pastoral Ministry (RELP 423, 424). The Field Evangelism course (RELP 425) includes participation in a major evangelistic crusade under the mentorship of a seasoned evangelist. This is to be followed by a personal evangelistic effort in a church within the conference where the major crusade was held. Those who have completed both of these programs before graduation are likely to be considered for conference employment ahead of others. The course Field Evangelism (RELP 425) is an integral part of the theology degree. Theology graduates will subsequently seek employment as Pastors in local conferences, pursue careers in chaplaincy, or proceed to the Seminary for in-depth training after field experience (e.g., Associate Pastor with a conference).
Theology students are encouraged to become involved in witnessing and spiritual activities throughout their time in college. However, the last two years are particularly focused on ministry as they are required to participate in the pastoral internship program. Those who are accepted in the Pastoral Ministry Certification Program will be assigned to churches mainly within the Dallas-Fort Worth area to gain practical pastoral experience. During this time, students will need to make transportation arrangements to ensure compete participation. This program is coordinated by the Southwestern Adventist University Religion Department in conjunction with the Texas Conference and the Southwest Region Conference.
Another goal of the Department is to prepare students to be efficient church administrators and strong supporters/promoters of Adventist Christian Education in their respective congregations. For this reason, they are strongly encouraged to consider taking some of the courses listed as Recommended Cognates in order to be better equipped to minister in these two areas of church life.
Ministerial Profile and Progression
A call to pastoral ministry or any related form of ministry is very personal. The faculty of the Religion Department recognizes that students who come to the department will either have a sense of divine calling or will be currently wrestling with this issue. The choice of ministry implies a high level of spiritual commitment and an exemplary life style.
Since graduates from the department will need recommendation from the Religion Department in order to be considered for ministerial work and for admission to the Theological Seminary, a progressive procedure for guidance of prospective ministerial candidates has been set up. At the end of the first semester of the sophomore year, a personality profile inventory is administered to all those pursuing the theology program. After the inventory is processed, the student consults with the Counseling & Testing Center to analyze the results. The inventory is also utilized during a Senior interview to provide the student an opportunity for self-evaluation and reflection on personal growth.
Continuation in the theology program is at all times contingent on the student maintaining satisfactory academic progress, exemplary social and cultural development, and dedication to the principles of the Christian faith and practice as taught by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in the areas of biblical studies, theological studies, historical studies, and practical studies prior to graduation via a Senior Theology Major Exit Exam (administered by the department chair at the end of a student’s final semester).
In fulfillment of the requirements for the classes RELP 423 & 424 Pastoral Ministry I, II, senior theology students prepare a paper describing their personal call and philosophy of ministry. Each paper is reviewed by the members of the Religion faculty and followed by a personal exit interview with the Religion faculty. The composite results of this paper and interview constitute the basis for departmental recommendation for both ministerial work and the Theological Seminary. Subsequently, arrangements are made for senior theology majors to be interviewed by conference presidents.
Biblical Courses
RELB 211 - Life and Teachings of Jesus (3 hours)
A study of the life and teachings of Jesus as outlined in the Gospels, including His principles, methods, and instructions in light of their application to modern life. (Fall, Spring)
RELB 313 - Prophetic Studies (3 hours)
An introduction to and survey of the books of Daniel and Revelation. Special emphasis is given to the application of their prophecies to the modern Christian life. (Spring)
RELB 315, 316 - Old Testament I, II (3, 3 hours)
An introduction to the history, literature, and thought of the Old Testament. Study is given to the contemporary objectives of each book and application to life in modern times. Fall topics: Pentateuch and The Writings. Spring topics: Prophets and Historical Books. (RELB 315 Fall, RELB 316 Spring)
RELB 339, 340 - New Testament I, II: The Letters (3,3 hours)
The world and literature of the New Testament, including theme and purpose of each book and applications to Christian life. Spring: Romans-Revelation.
RELB 410, 411 - Biblical Studies Seminar I, II (3, 3 hours)
Prerequisites: RELB 315, 316, 339 or 340
Prerequisite for RELB 411: RELL 240
A seminar on a biblical topic, book, or body of literature designed to encourage careful, responsible investigation and interpretation. May be repeated for credit. Fall semester: OT topic/text. Spring semester: NT topic/text. (RELB 410 Fall, RELB 411 Spring)
Historical Courses
RELH 230 - History of the Seventh-day Adventist Church (3 hours)
A historical study of the Adventist awakening of the 19th century and the subsequent rise, growth, and worldwide expansion of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Special attention is given to the role of Ellen G. White in the growing church. (Fall, Spring)
RELH 233 - Biblical Archaeology (3 hours)
A study of the history of archaeology, recent achievements, and archaeological method. (Spring)
RELH 314 - Origin and Development of the Bible (3 hours)
A study of the history and development of the written material and canon of Scripture, covering the Old Testament, intertestamental literature, and the New Testament. It also reviews the development of the English Bible and evaluates different translations. (Fall)
RELH 320 - Ellen White Writings (3 hours)
A course designed to give experience and guidelines in the study of the writings of Ellen G. White. The four major foci of the course are the historical context of the life of Ellen White, the development of her major literary works, the themes that tie her writings together across time, and principles for sound interpretation and current application of her writings. (Spring)
RELH 331, 332 - History of Christianity I, II (3, 3 hours)
A study of the rise and impact of Christianity in the Roman world and western culture. Attention is given to theological and social movements, the influence of Islam, the crusades, expansionism, and religious adaptation to modern life. The second semester traces development from the Reformation through the growth of American religion. (Also taught as HIST 331, 332) (RELH 331 Fall, RELH 332 Spring, or both Spring)
Biblical Language Courses
RELL 240, 241 - New Testament Greek I, II (5, 4 hours)
An introductory study of the elements of New Testament Greek. Emphasis on the fundamentals of grammar and vocabulary. Translation from selected NT passages. One semester may be applied toward general education religion requirements. (RELL 240 Fall, RELL 241 Spring)
RELL 340 - Intermediate New Testament Greek (3 hours)
Continued reading in the Greek New Testament with emphasis on grammar and syntax, with interpretive translation of selected portions of the New Testament. (Summer) Includes preparation for the Seminary Greek exam.
RELL 343, 344 - Biblical Hebrew I, II (3, 3 hours)
An introductory course in the elements of Biblical Hebrew with emphasis on basic grammar and a working vocabulary. The second semester will include grammar review, but will focus on translation from selected Old Testament passages. Includes preparation for the Seminary Hebrew exam. (RELL 343 Fall, RELL 344 Spring)
Practical Courses
RELP 210 - Introduction to Missions (1 hour)
Required for all student missionaries prior to service abroad. An introduction to issues and ideas in missions. Examines cultures and religions from the perspective of the national and the student missionary. (Spring)
RELP 220 - Christian Witnessing (3 hours)
A study of the biblical principles of the art and technique of personal evangelism. The student is taught to use the Scriptures effectively, to prepare and give specific Bible studies, to meet objections, and to gain decisions for Christ. (Fall, Spring)
RELP 271 - Ministries Internship (1-3 hours)
This course allows the student to earn credit through professionally directed mission, evangelistic, colporteur or youth camp programs. Arrangements must be made with the instructor prior to starting the internship and supervision will take place at the location of the internship. Credit earned will be elective only and will not apply to the general education religion requirement or toward a major or minor. Grading is on a pass/fail basis. May be repeated for a total of 3 hours.
RELP 285 - Church Ministry (Distance Education Program) (3 hours)
This course will introduce the student to various aspects of church ministry and church life. Students will be instructed in such areas as biblical ecclesiology; church organization and governance; distribution of funds; and the purpose and development of spiritual as well as social activities. This class is offered on-line and does not apply toward the requirements of a Theology major or Religion minor.
RELP 323, 324 - Homiletics I, II (3, 3 hours)
Prerequisite: COMM 111
A study of the basic concepts of biblical preaching and sermon preparation, including persuasion, human responses, the art of illustration and effective structure. The second semester features actual practice in preparation and delivery in various church settings. (RELP 323 Fall, RELP 324 Spring)
RELP 420 - Pastoral Practicum (1 hour)
Prerequisite: RELP 323, 324 completed or taken concurrently
Supervised field work in area churches as coordinated by the department. Designed to give practical experience in a wide variety of pastoral situations. May be repeated once for credit upon approval of the religion faculty. (Fall, Spring)
RELP 423, 424 - Pastoral Ministry l, ll (3, 3 hours)
Prerequisites: PSYC 212, RELP 425
This class is designed for senior ministerial students. It covers applied studies in church ministry, like pastoral leadership, care, visitation, counseling, and church administration with special attention to organization and finances. The course will be enriched by visits of specialists. This course also requires students to take the Seminary’s Church Policy exam a pre-requisite for admission in the M.Div. program. Its successful completion is valid for two years. (RELP 423 Fall, RELP 424 Spring)
RELP 425 - Field Evangelism (3 hours)
Prerequisite: RELP 220
This course provides classroom instruction and practical involvement in a main evangelistic crusade led by a successful professional evangelist. The evangelist’s meetings are followed by the students’ own three-week series in churches selected by the hosting Conference. All facets of the course are taught in the city where the series is conducted. Taught on an arranged basis. (Summer)
RELP 427 - Hospital Ministry (1 hour)
Prerequisite: Admission to junior or senior-level standing.
This course provides opportunity for students to develop professional ministry skills in the particular field of institutional health care. Concentration of communication, assessment, collaboration with health care professionals, and exploration of personal and professional identity is particularly emphasized. (Spring)
Theological Courses
RELT 101 - Christian Beliefs (3 hours)
A study of the basic concepts of Christian faith and practice with emphasis on fundamental doctrines held by Seventh-day Adventists. (Fall, Spring)
RELT 201 - Bible Study Methods (3 hours)
This course will teach students various strategies in studying and teaching the Bible. Students will learn different study methods like the thematic, biographical, and word study as well as creating learning environments and developing lessons using a model of teaching repertoire. This class is required for Seventh-day Adventist Denominational Certification and includes Encounter training for NAD teachers seeking re-certification requirements. (Fall)
RELT 207 - Research in Religion (1 hour)
Prerequisite: CSIS 102, ENGL 121
An introduction to the research methods, documentation styles, and writing skills used in religious studies. Students will engage in critical thinking by utilizing and evaluating primary and secondary sources (including journals, indexes, and databases) to produce a book review, a research paper, and a professional presentation that involves public communication of the research process, evaluation of discipline-specific trends and resources, and the responsible and effective use of technology. Within this course, religion/theology majors begin the process of senior portfolio development. (Spring)
RELT 212 - Christian Ethics (3 hours)
An introduction to the theory and practice of Christian morality; its biblical origins, norms, and sources of authority, including Christian approaches to basic issues such as decision-making, church-world relations, abortion, reproduction technology, euthanasia, marriage and divorce, and methods of social change. (Fall)
RELT 360 - Philosophy and the Christian Worldview (3 hours)
An introduction to philosophy from a biblical perspective and toward the formation of a Christian worldview. This course addresses the major questions of life such as: What is real? What is true? Who is God? Who am I? Why evil? Philosophical answers to these questions will be critically engaged from the standpoint of a distinctively biblical worldview. Attention is given to analytical tools for evaluating the truth of ideas and understanding the nature of existence and reality within the context of mature faith. (Fall)
RELT 405 - Biblical Theology (3 hours)
Prerequisite: RELT 101 and at least one of the following: RELB 315, 316, 339, 340
This course consists of the study of several selected topics approached from a biblical perspective, which may include topics such as biblical inspiration and interpretation, the doctrine of God, the doctrine of Christ, the doctrine of Salvation, the doctrine of the Church, eschatology, and the doctrine of the sanctuary. These studies focus upon the contributions of several biblical writers to each doctrinal issue. Some attention is also given to the way in which selected writers have handled the teological issues and biblical material. (Fall)
RELT 419 - Philosophy of Science (3 hours)
A study of the philosophies and methodologies of science. Includes a review of the history of scientific and religious thought and the role each has played in the development of modern theories of origin. (Also taught as BIOL 419 or GEOL 419.) (Spring)
Other Courses
RLGN 291/491 - Selected Topics (1 hour)
Prerequisite: Approval of department chair.
A study in an area of interest under the direction of a staff member. This study may involve research, laboratory or library work. May be repeated for a total of 2 credits.
RLGN 491 - Selected Topics (1 hour)
Prerequisite: Approval of department chair.
Intensive study of a single approved topic in the field of religion. The course takes the form of a seminar, preparation of a research report, or other guided study as arranged with the department. Content and method of study must be arranged prior to registration. May be repeated for a total of 2 credits.
Certificate In Church Ministry Through Distance Education
The Southwestern Adventist University Distance Education Program and the Department of Religion offers a Certificate in Church Ministry to prepare better lay leaders for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It is a unique church ministry program which combines basic theological education with church history and applied ministerial methods and practices. The curriculum of the certificate consists of courses totaling 15 semester hours of college credit. These credits may be transferred to any other accredited college or university and may be applied toward a degree at Southwestern Adventist University. The curriculum is also designed to help church lay leaders increase their knowledge and skills and be better equipped to work in various positions of lay leadership.
The Certificate in Church Ministry does not prepare candidates for full-time employment in pastoral ministry nor does it constitute an alternative theology degree. Anyone choosing full-time ministry as a goal for life must enroll in a four-year BA Theology program. Although the program will be entirely offered on-line, a number of courses can also be taken as traditional classes on the campus of Southwestern Adventist University in the current semester format. The courses in the certificate program are offered in either English or Spanish. The Spanish version, however, is only available on-line.
Admission
The Certificate in Church Ministry is open to persons age 25 or older who have served in positions of lay leadership and are officially endorsed by their local congregations or conferences. Applicants must have a high school diploma or its equivalent. Previous college work is not required, but recommended. Applicants must:
- Complete an application for admission into the certificate program
- Send a non-refundable $25 application fee
- Submit three letters of recommendation from a local church pastor, a local church elder, and a third local church leader which officially endorse the applicant
- Write a letter of intent stating why the applicant would like to take the college-level certificate in church ministry
- Send a current professional resume
Time Limitations
Candidates for this certificate must complete all requirements within a five-year period.
Certificate Completion
Certificates will be awarded to students who complete all course requirements and maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average. Candidates must submit a Certificate Completion contract to the Records Office. A $25 certificate fee is required at the time the certificate is completed.
Certificate Course Requirements
| RELT 101 | Christian Beliefs | 3 |
| RELB 211 | Life and Teachings of Jesus | 3 |
| RELP 220 | Christian Witnessing | 3 |
| RELH 230 | History of the SDA Church | 3 |
| RELP 285 | Church Ministry | 3 |
| Total: | 15 |
Cost of the Certificate
Each course will cost $400 per course. The Certificate in Church Ministry is an accredited program. Local churches and conferences may provide students with scholarships for this certificate. There are no scholarships available from the University. All charges must be covered at the time of registration.
Academic Support Services
Students taking the certificate program will have access to important academic support services including library and learning resources, information on distance education technology, and the writing center.
Student Support Services
The Distance Education office will provide certificate students with a full range of student services appropriate to support the program, including admissions, academic advising, registration, course materials, certificate audits, and graduation assistance.
SWORD (Soul-Winning Outreach Discipleship) A Bible Worker Certification Program
Leadership
Ingo Sorke, Program Supervisor - Southwestern Adventist University
Tony Correa, Field Coordinator
Description
A Bible Worker Certification Program that combines college-based classwork with practical training in literature evangelism, outreach, public evangelism, discipleship, and church planning.
Certificate Completion
Certificates will be awarded to students who complete all course requirements and maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average. Candidates must submit a Certificate Completion contract to the Records Office. A $25 certificate fee is required at the time the certificate is completed.
Certificate Course Requirements
| RELT 101 | Christian Beliefs | 3 |
| RELB 211 | Life & Teachings of Jesus | 4 |
| RELP 220 | Christian Witnessing | 3 |
| RELH 230 | History of the SDA Church | 3 |
| UNIV 112 | Whole-Person Wellness | 2 |
| Total: | 14 |
Cost of the Certificate
Option A - for academic credit: regular Southwestern’s Tuition rates apply ($10,131; regular financial aid available if in a Southwestern degree program.)
Option B - non-degree seeking, for academic course credit ($10,131; no financial aid available)
Option C - not-for-credit; $4,995 program fee
Admission
Applicants must:
1) Complete an application for admission into the SWORD program
2) Submit three letters of recommendation from a pastor, church member and non-family
- Write a two-page essay to Dr. Ingo Sorke, with the following four elements: a) your conversion story, b) current involvement in ministry, c) goals in relation to this program and d) your post-completion plans for ministry.
4) Contact Tony Correa to arrange outreach activity (labs).
Apply at www.swau.edu - Deadline for Fall Semester: March 1 Deadline for Spring Semester November 1