Stewardship feels like a dirty word in most churches. Pastors preach about it knowing they must while members sit uncomfortably through the “it’s-that-time-again” sermons and other appeals. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Stewardship really means that we are taking good care of our ministries and physical property.
This class challenges you to become stewards-in-action in all God has entrusted to us. We will go beyond thinking in terms of ‘dollars contributed’ to see stewardship as becoming living examples of the gospel. If we take stewardship seriously – and joyfully – it won’t be just another addition to the same old programs we’ve been doing in our congregations. It will change our thinking, acting and imagining. And it will change our vision of ministry, working from the inside out. The required textbook is Afire With God: Becoming Spirited Stewards by Betsy Schwarzentraub and should be obtained in advance of the course.
This course is eligible for 1.0 CEU.
This course has been approved by Discipleship Ministries as an advanced course in Lay Servant Ministries. It provides the required 10 contact hours.
This course is eligible for 1.0 CEU.
Quick Info:
Number of weeks: 2
Price: $75
CEUs: 1.0
Required books: Yes
Blackboard: Yes
Zoom: No
Certification or Series: Yes (Lay Servant Ministries)
Read course description for details.
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Price: $75
About the Instructor
John Zimmerman served 28 years in pastoral ministry in local church settings before he was appointed as General Evangelist in the United Methodist Church. His current ministry as the founding director of About Face Church Outreach Consultants offers a consultant model of ministry with local churches around the country to engage in long-term relationships within the context of the local church mission field. He and his wife help churches move into this new paradigm of ministry that reflects more fully the New Testament Church. His evangelistic work has been recognized and honored as a recipient of the Harry Denman Evangelism Award by the Foundation for Evangelism.
Past Students Said…
“This course provided inspiring, spirit-filled ideas to “fire up” disciples through all the ways of stewardship. It is not just finances that enhance & grow a church or bring people to Christ. It is living the example of Jesus & going where He leads us to show the love of God. John Zimmerman’s instruction was excellent.” – Judy Attebery
“I learned that stewardship is a way of life, not something we do and it is not just about giving.”
“Looking at the various aspects of stewardship, through the lens of giving our prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness, was very helpful. It also provided new tools for facilitating more frequent discussions about Stewardship in my church. John did a great job and I appreciate his leadership in this area!”
“Surprisingly enough, keeping a personal journal was the highlight of the course for me. It allowed me to think through the material presented and personalize it in a way that I would never have done had I not been required to respond to the passages and questions posed for reflection through journaling. I especially appreciate the instructor’s comments to my journal entries, which affirmed me while nudging me in the right direction.”
“I liked that it went into depth about being a steward for God and what that means. Not just giving of money, but giving all of me.”
“Because stewardship is rarely taught in church, this class is much needed. I enjoyed the instructor and he was great at giving us feedback.”
