More detailed information about the Course of Study & Licensing School can be found at localpastor.org
COS 121 Bible I: Introduction
June 27-July 5; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course introduces biblical interpretation. Attention is given to the inspiration, formation, and function of the canon and to the development of a methodology of interpretation consistent with the nature of scripture. The importance of the Bible as a witness to the life and faith of ancient Israel and earliest Christianity will be emphasized.
COS 122 Theological Heritage I: Introduction
June 27-July 5; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course introduces the student to theological reflection in the Wesleyan tradition. Basic terms, tasks, and methods of Christian theology will be introduced. Representative classical themes will be defined and illustrated. The course provides a foundation for further historical and theological study.
COS 123 Formation and Discipleship
July 7-15; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course grounds the student in the theology and core practices of personal and congregational formation and discipleship.
COS 124 Transformative Leadership
July 7-15; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course forms the student’s identity as pastoral leader and change agent in congregations, The United Methodist Church, and the world.
COS 221 Bible II: Torah, and Israel’s History
June 27-July 5 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course interprets the critical events, developing institutions, and traditions of Israel. Attention is given to the earliest Covenants, to the Exodus, to the rise of the monarchy, and to other events up to the eighth century prophets.
COS 222 Theological Heritage II: Early Church
July 7-15 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course focuses on the history and theology of the Church through the first five centuries. Using primary sources, students will reflect on significant individuals, events, and the articulation of the Christian faith during this period.
COS 223 Worship and Sacraments
June 27-July 5; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course examines worship within The United Methodist Church including liturgy, sacraments, and special services. Attention will be given to the pastor’s role as leader in worship.
COS 224 Polity and Administration
July 7-15; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course focuses on developing the student’s competency as an administrator in a United Methodist congregation.
COS 321 Bible III: Gospels
June 27-July 5; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course focuses on the content and message of the Gospels, as well as the theological perspectives of the Gospel writers. The practice of exegesis will be emphasized.
COS 322 Theological Heritage III: Medieval through the Reformation
July 7-15; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course focuses on major movements and events beginning with the split between Eastern and Western forms of Christianity and continuing through the Reformation. Using primary sources, students will reflect on individuals, decisive events, and theological developments.
COS 323 Congregational Care
June 27-July 5; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course introduces students to practices of congregational care and the pastor’s responsibility in caregiving.
COS 324 Preaching
July 7-15; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course focuses on preaching the gospel from the Old and New Testaments.
COS 421 Bible IV: Prophets, Psalms, and Wisdom Literature
July 7-15; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course examines God’s Word as expressed through Israel’s prophets, selected Psalms, and selected passages from Wisdom literature.
COS 422 Theological Heritage IV: Wesleyan Movement
July 7-15; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course covers the significant individuals, decisive events, and theology of the Methodist movement. Utilizing categories of grace, faith, and holiness, the student will appropriate the Wesleyan heritage.
COS 423 Mission
June 27-July 5; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course introduces the theology and scope of mission, and the pastor’s role in leading congregations in their mission as agents of God’s transforming redemption.
COS 424 Ethics
June 27-July 5; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course introduces the biblical and theological bases for Christian behavior, emphasizing the pastoral skills needed for moral leadership in the congregation and community.
COS 521 Bible V: Acts, Epistles, and Revelation
June 27-July 5; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course focuses on the content and context of these writings, and the theological emphases of their writers. In addition to Acts and Revelation, Romans, 1 Corinthians, Hebrews, James, and 1 John will receive special attention. Students will articulate a theology of scripture.
COS 522 Theology in the Contemporary Church
July 7-15; 1:30-4:30 pm | Syllabus
This course covers significant individuals, movements, events, and theological developments from the nineteenth century to the present. Students will read selected primary sources.
COS 523 Evangelism
July 7-15; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course introduces students to the theology and practices of evangelism as an expression of the mission of God.
COS 524 Theological Reflection on the Practice of Ministry
June 27-July 5; 8:30-11:30 am | Syllabus
This course is the capstone to the student’s basic course of study. Its focus is the integration of the biblical, theological, and practical aspects of ministry.
