Distinctively Christian; A Christ-centered Worldview Approach to Elementary Ministry
Distinctively Christian: A Christ-centered Worldview Approach to Elementary Ministry addresses both the church’s and Christian school’s ministries among students in grades 3-5 (upper elementary). The book expands upon the teaching in Book Four (preschool through second grade) to the next level of students and their more advanced cognitive and faith development. Readers will be challenged to extend their vision beyond evangelization to discipleship.
The book, divided into two sections, first overviews the critical elements and strategies that promote not only Christ-center content but also the means whereby a Christian worldview can be taught more explicitly. Chapters on each major worldview element outline content that can be integrated within Bible lessons. Part one will also help readers understand faith development, the nature and needs of the upper elementary learner, and how to provide an environment that facilitates community, trust, and the relationships that are the foundation for spiritual formation. The teaching strategies, including an emphasis on critical thinking, help volunteers better prepare children to stand for the truth in an increasingly secular culture. As children ask questions to clarify their beliefs, readers are given guidance on how to address questioning and provide answers to the theological questions that may arise.
The second part guides the ministry directors and teachers through the process of developing a curriculum based upon a ministry’s mission, vision, and subsequent outcomes. It not only explains the importance of moving beyond what programs do to focus on what the ministry’s efforts will accomplish.
It then explains how to validate the effectiveness of the program by assessing students prior to their move to the middle school ministry.