LEAD 610 Biblical Foundations of Leadership and Ethics

About the Course

The course explores the foundational teaching and primary metaphors of leadership, including theories, models, and concepts viewed in the context of God’s call on the covenant community in the redemptive history. Part of the course covers ethical philosophies, the construction of a framework for ethical decisions, and the application of ethical principles in one’s personal life and workplace.

Who Needs This Course?

• Graduate students:
  • MDiv
  • MACM
  • MAEd
  • MBA
  • MSA
  • MPH (1 unit)
• This course may also be taken by
  • Pastors, teachers, public health professionals, and businessmen for continuing education
  • Pastors, teachers, public health professionals, and businessmen as a non-degree course for professional development
  • Graduate students from other schools can use transfer credit

Time Investment

At least 3-5 hours per day for approximately 2 months

Course Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, the students will be able to:

1. Gain the foundational understanding of theoretical, philosophical, and biblical principles and approaches of biblical leadership;
2. Identify the essential characteristics, qualities, and requirements of Christian leaders by studying biblical characters.
3. Understand organizational structures and develop the knowledge and skills to function as reflective, adaptive, and proactive leaders;
4. Recognize the urgent need for missional leaders and aspire to serve the SDA church cross-culturally on a regional, national, and global level;
5. Become knowledgeable about the range of leadership theories and practices in their area of service;
6. Deepen the understanding of servant leadership in their area of work by exploring personal and professional applications.
7. Expand the knowledge of possible future directions and forms of leadership through reflective journals and forum discussions;
8. Build a community of inquiry where learners assist and help each other with issues related to leadership and ethics using technology.
9. Participate and reflect on ethical decision-making based on the mission, vision, and values of leadership;
10. Critically analyze the practice of Christian leadership and explore it from the point of view of ethics and accountability, and its importance for decision-making.
11. Participate actively in problem-solving associated with difficult ethical dilemmas encountered in their leadership roles; and
12. Understand how perspectives in ethics inform perceptions, value systems, character development, beliefs, and actions.

Topics to Cover

Unit 1:Introduction to Leadership

Unit 2: Biblical Leadership Models

Unit 3: Christian Leadership

Unit 4: Servant Leadership

Unit 5: Leadership, Power, and Authority

Unit 6: Leadership and Christian Ethics

Unit 7: Leadership Theories

Unit 8: Summary, Synthesis, and Application