Course Overview

Pastoring: The Nuts and Bolts (3 Credits)

Instructor: Pastor David Wentz

Pastoring: The Nuts and Bolts is a comprehensive course designed to equip pastors with practical tools and guidance for their day-to-day ministry. This course is based on the highly acclaimed book that has received praise from experienced pastors worldwide. It offers a unique blend of scriptural foundations, personal experiences, and cultural sensitivity to address the diverse challenges faced by pastors in different church traditions and expressions.

The course addresses the day-to-day issues of leading a local church effectively. It covers crucial aspects such as church organization, preaching, worship, and ministries, emphasizing best practices and offering options rather than rigid prescriptions. Students will develop skills in working with diverse congregations, managing finances, building relationships with other churches, and addressing common pastoral challenges.

Whether you are an aspiring pastor, a seasoned minister, or a member of the laity seeking a deeper understanding of pastoral ministry, this course offers invaluable insights and resources. Join Pastor Wentz to explore the nuts and bolts of pastoring, empowering you to navigate the challenges and opportunities of ministry with wisdom, grace, and effectiveness.

1. Apply practical strategies and best practices for effective pastoral ministry in diverse church traditions and expressions.
   
2. Navigate personal and family challenges that arise in the context of pastoral ministry, fostering personal well-being and healthy relationships.
3. Utilize effective communication and preaching techniques to convey biblical truths and engage congregations.
   
4. Organize and lead church ministries, fostering growth, discipleship, and the development of vibrant worship experiences.
5. Navigate church administration, including financial management, organizational structures, and effective use of resources.
6. Cultivate positive relationships with other churches and community organizations, fostering collaboration and unity in the body of Christ.
7. Address common pastoral challenges and conflicts with wisdom, grace, and a spirit of reconciliation.
8. Develop a lifelong commitment to continuous learning and personal growth as a pastor.
   
9. Reflect on the transformative power of pastoral ministry, both in their own lives and the lives of those they serve.

Assignments

1. Watch each of the videos and read the corresponding chapters from Pastor Wentz's book. 
   
2. Reflect on the questions from Application Guide included in each unit. You may write down your reflections, journal about it, discuss the questions with your colleague(s) or spouse, etc.  
3. Take the online quiz for each unit. You will have 75 minutes to answer 20 questions for each quiz. While taking the quiz, you may use your notes and refer to class materials. 

Grading Scale

A 95-100%   A- 90-94%   B+ 87-89%   B 83-86%   B- 80-82%   C+ 77-79%   C 73-76%   C- 70-72%    D+ 67-69%   D 63-66%   D- 60-62%   F 0-59%

Your average grade for all assignments in the class must be at least 60%. Otherwise, you will fail the class and will receive no course credit.

Deadline

You have 180 days to finish the course. Complete all assignments before the final deadline, or you will be automatically unenrolled, and all coursework will be removed. You will have to start over and take the class again to receive credit.