I am pleased to announce that Campbellsville University has developed an online degree program especially suited for bivocational ministers. This program is called the Certificate in Christian Ministry. It is a 27 credit hour program that provides college-level courses in a format that is convenient to bivocational ministers. You don't have to leave your home, your ministry, or your job to take advantage of this program. Each class is taught in 8-week sessions and two are offered each semester. The classes offered are
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Introduction to the New Testament
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Introduction to the Old Testament
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Pastoral Ministries
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Ministry of Proclamation
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Introduction to Christian Evangelism
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Christian Theology
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Studies of OT Prophets
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Church History
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Studies in the Gospels
If a student later wishes to pursue a degree the credits earned in this program will count towards that degree. The cost is very reasonable, and the instructors are excellent.
Many bivocational ministers have been looking for ways to obtain educational training for the ministry, and this is one of the best opportunities I know about. For more information about this program contact Dr. John Hurtgen, the dean of the School of Theology, at jehurtgen@campbellsville.edu.
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The Parable of the Sower
Matthew 13: 3-9, 18-23
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I. This is one parable that Jesus explains the meaning.
A. We could call this "The Parable of the Soils."
1. The sower is the same. (Anyone who shares his or her faith in Jesus Christ)
2. The seed is the same. (The Gospel message of Jesus Christ)
3. Only the soils are different.
B. The differences in the soil produce different types of responses to the seed.
II. The four types of soil
A. Wayside (v. 19)
1. These were footpaths through the fields used for roads by the public.
2. They had been packed down until they were very hard.
3. This soil represents those whose hearts have been hardened to God.
B. Stony places.
1. This soil looks good but has a layer of limestone just beneath the surface.
2. The seed cannot take root.
3. These people seem to have had a dramatic conversion, but when their faith is tested it does not last.
C. Thorny soil
1. This soil looked good for planting, but the seed fell among thorns.
2. Thorns are the things of this world that take priority over God.
D. Good soil
1. This person has been rightly prepared by God to receive the Word.
2. This person accepts Jesus Christ on His terms.
3. This person will have fruit evident in his or her life.
III. Why did Jesus give us this parable?
A. It gives us a means by which we can examine our relationship with God.
1. Has your faith been allowed to develop roots that will withstand testing?
2. Does God have priority in your life, or do the things of this world interest you more?
B. It encouragers sowners to continue despite some of the responses they will receive.
1. It is impossible to control where all the seed will fall.
2. It may be necessary to work to develop the soil before sowing the seed.
3. There is always some good soil, so be encouraged to keep sharing your faith.
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