DEPARTMENT OF RELIGION 2024-2026

The Department of Religion offers two undergraduate degrees to prepare Bible teachers and gospel ministers to serve the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the wider community. Degree students are provided in-depth instruction in biblical, theological, historical, ethical, and pastoral courses so as to be better equipped for a wide and relevant proclamation of the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. The department also provides basic religion courses to meet the religion course requirement needs of the general education program.

The mission of the department is to involve both degree majors and general education students in:

• An experiential understanding of Jesus Christ and His Word;
• The study of God's word, sharing of spiritual and ethical ideas, connecting with people, serving humanity, and improving one's world;
• The development of family, community, and the Church in anticipation of the soon return of Jesus Christ.

The department offers the following degree programs:

• Bachelor of Arts in Religion (BA)
• Bachelor of Arts in Theology (BA)

Bachelor of Arts in Religion 2024-2026

The BA degree in Religion is offered to those who wish to become Bible teachers at elementary or secondary school levels, as one context for service includes education. Students must complete 129 credits resulting in the acquisition of the following outcomes and competencies:

Outcomes and Competencies

Learning Outcomes	Competencies
A Spiritually Mature Leader	a. Demonstrates a deep understanding of religious texts and biblical principles. b. Exhibits strong moral character and ethical conduct. c. Engages in regular spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and sharing personal religious experiences. d. Demonstrates effective leadership skills in religious contexts.
An Effective Biblical and Theological Teacher	a. Possesses expertise in teaching religious subjects through effective instructional techniques. b. Utilizes creative teaching methods to actively engage students and enhance learning. c. Shows a profound grasp of relevant biblical and theological concepts for classroom instruction. d. Applies religious texts effectively and integrates theological principles into lesson plans, fostering critical thinking and spiritual growth in a supportive learning environment.
A Competent Cross-Cultural Missionary & Discipler	a. Exhibits cultural sensitivity, effective communication skills, and knowledge of world religions, particularly focusing on the MENA region. b. Engages in missionary work with compassion, respect, and adaptability, fostering spiritual growth and development in diverse contexts. c. Demonstrates proficiency in discipleship and mentoring practices, supporting students' spiritual growth through teaching and guidance. d. Integrates these skills and practices to effectively navigate cross-cultural interactions and promote understanding and empathy in religious contexts.

Bachelor of Arts in Theology 2024-2026

The BA degree in Theology is offered to those who desire to become gospel workers and pastors in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Students are introduced to various phases of gospel ministry and to the methods, principles, and procedures of biblical interpretation. It aims to develop skills required for effective proclamation of biblical faith through personal witness, preaching, teaching, and leadership in local, regional, and global communities. Courses are designed to enhance students' commitment to Jesus Christ and their involvement in the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Graduates will be prepared for ministry in any vocation in the world field-but especially Middle Eastern North African contexts or with people who come from the region. r Students must complete 127 credits esulting in the acquisition of the following outcomes and competencies:

Learning Outcomes	Competencies
A Spiritually Committed Leader	a. Demonstrates a deep commitment to spiritual growth and personal devotion. b. Exhibits strong leadership skills in religious settings, fostering unity and collaboration. c. Possesses effective communication abilities to convey spiritual principles and guidance. d. Demonstrates a solid understanding of theological concepts and their practical application in ministry.
A Skillful Cross-Cultural Ministry Practitioner	a. Shows proficiency in navigating diverse cultural contexts, particularly in Middle Eastern and North African regions. b. Demonstrates adaptability and flexibility in cross-cultural interactions and ministry approaches. c. Possesses strong interpersonal skills for building relationships across cultural boundaries. d. Integrates cultural sensitivity and awareness into ministry practices, respecting diverse beliefs and traditions.
A Biblical-Based and Mission-Driven Pastor	a. Displays a deep understanding of biblical teachings and principles, grounded in sound theological knowledge. b. Exhibits a passion for mission and evangelism, actively engaging in outreach and community involvement. c. Demonstrates effective pastoral care skills, providing spiritual support and guidance to individuals and communities. d. Integrates biblical values and principles into decision-making processes and ministry strategies.

Who is a candidate?

• Individuals who have heard God's call inviting them to a life of service as a gospel worker.
• Persons whose spiritual vision includes a commitment to serve the world's diverse population both within the Middle East North African region and beyond. This might include theology as a second degree in addition to their expertise of profession.
• Theology students of Adventist theological study programs around the world who desire a concentration in Mediterranean and Near Eastern studies, or a de-Westernized orientation to biblical studies and theology.
• Tentmakers who envision self-supporting gospel ministry and need to pursue additional qualifications, such as theology as a second degree in addition to their expertise or profession.
• International thinkers who desire a sound Seventh-day Adventist biblical and theological exposure on a uniquely situated and diverse campus that draws students from around the world to learn under an international faculty.

MEU's BA in Theology program graduates will be better equipped to minister to individuals from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds in the MENA region exercising understanding, respect, and confidence.