Practicing Christian Education

"This short volume is a practical introduction to the theory and practice of Christian education ministry. Maddix and Estep provide an overview of critical aspects of educational ministry that promote spiritual vitality, growth, and maturity, with ideas for how this can be carried out in a variety of ministry settings. This one-volume introduction will be useful in introductory courses, providing a taste of important issues and approaches in educational ministry, and it includes helpful questions for reflection or group discussion."

"Christian education is a disappearing label in ministry preparation, but through this timely book we are reminded that Christian education is neither obsolete nor optional, regardless of cultural trends. Whatever names or titles we use to describe the work of spiritual formation in our churches, whether the curriculum is planned, structured, hidden, or null, it is all Christian education. Practicing Christian Education discusses the biblical, historical, and theological foundations and nature of what is to be taught in and through the church. I am most enthusiastic about the compelling case that Maddix and Estep make for the integration of faith and education, of faith and the social sciences, and of faith and culture. This book has reignited my zeal for ministry preparation that has a curricular core of Christian education."

"My gentle Wesleyan brothers have sounded the educational trumpet once again by reminding every church leader, 'Your congregation is a learning organization.' Shout it from the housetops! Their unifying perspective untangles us from worship wars and avoids the temptation of ministry silos. Their synthesis of educational history and the social sciences' contribution to learning theory will serve well those entering church ministry. When I send students looking for a one-sentence philosophy of church education, I hope they find, 'Ministry was meant to be shared by the many, not hoarded by the few.'"

"This book provides a comprehensive overview of the most common concepts and theories shaping the practice of Christian education in North America over the past three decades. Written at an introductory level, this book contains the foundational knowledge that will benefit every undergraduate coming to seminary and every layperson who has ever prepared a teaching segment. Readers will find the numerous summative charts especially useful."

"Mark Maddix and James Estep provide a down-to-earth introduction to Christian education, providing core values, biblical principles, and historical and theological insight, as well as offering strategies for forming and educating persons in and through local congregations. The book addresses the full range of teaching (formal and nonformal) while orienting the reader to a number of social science insights and educational principles. Written for those first exploring educational ministry, the book introduces the reader to key terminology and insights through very accessible chapters. A great addition for anyone wanting to know more about the practice and process of Christian education."

"Maddix and Estep give us a carefully crafted text that hits just the right chords for teachers, pastors, and Christians called upon to disciple others. It concentrates on the important things, yet it avoids overdosing the beginner. You will be shocked at the amount of good stuff these pages contain! Most importantly, Practicing Christian Education delivers as advertised, introducing the reader to the leading theories and best practices of this crucial ministry."