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Dr. Thomas Keinath presents Abstract of Dissertation
Central Bible College, Springfield, MO.-- Dr. Thomas Keinath recently
earned the D.Min. from Regent School of Divinity in Virginia Beach,
VA. His study track was on renewal leadership and the focus of his
dissertation was on discipleship. The following is an abstract of
his dissertation.
Responding to the need for greater success in discipleship ministries,
this dissertation advances a New Testament based method and model
for true and effective discipleship. Through an extensive literature
survey, widespread evidence of the lack of discipleship within the
evangelical movement is added to the author’s own concerns.
The telling results of a survey conducted with one hundred leading
pastors and the summaries of interviews conducted with representatives
from three renowned discipling ministries are likewise included.
In order to gain a correct biblical perspective, the concept and
practice of discipleship and the ancient tradition of the teacher-student
unit are examined, primarily within a New Testament framework. Particular
attention is given to Jesus as the leader and teacher of His own
disciples and to Barnabas in his role as a spiritual encourager.
The instructions and practices of Jesus and the early church are
also consulted in development of a methodology of discipleship.
Historical insights are gained through a broad overview of the
meaning and practice of discipleship within nine varied and sequential
historical church movements. Despite the many divergent thoughts
and practices attending spiritual leadership and development throughout
the centuries, many commonalities have existed within these traditions
and much to inform our understanding of discipleship today.
In addition to the blessings of Scriptural guidance and the contributions
of religious history and key evangelical leaders, the author also
operates with the benefit of lessons learned through many years
of pastoral and didactic experiences. Hence, this dissertation seeks
to present something fresh based upon the rediscovery of foundational
truth. Several years of focused study, curriculum development, and
field implementation has resulted in the "Barnabas" method
and model. "The Barnabas Method" is defined according
to "Seven Key Principles for Effective Discipleship."
These principles form both the philosophy and the framework upon
which the "Barnabas" curriculum has been written. As a
model, The Barnabas Discipleship Course: A Follow-On Journey
for Every Believer and its antecedent new believers’ course,
Starting Block, together, have been designed to guide disciples
through fifty-two weeks of spiritual development following the personal
and intentional training of the Antiochian Christians.
Dr. Thomas Keinath is an assistant professor at Central Bible College
in Springfield, MO.
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